Planning a trip to Walt Disney World is exciting, but one of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to stay. With so many options around the Disney area, it can be overwhelming to figure out which location best fits your travel style, budget, and group size.

The good news is that staying near Disney World does not mean you have to stay on Disney property. Many travelers find that nearby areas offer more space, better value, and a more relaxing experience—especially for families and extended stays.

In this guide, we’ll break down the best areas to stay near Disney World, compare their pros and cons, and help you choose the perfect home base for your vacation.

Why Location Matters When Visiting Disney World

Disney World spans more than 25,000 acres, and your daily experience can vary greatly depending on where you stay. Location affects:

• Drive time to the parks

• Cost of accommodations

• Crowds and traffic

• Space and comfort

• Access to dining and shopping

For families, groups, and longer stays, the right location can mean less stress, more relaxation, and better overall value.

Kissimmee: The Best Overall Area to Stay Near Disney World

Kissimmee is widely considered one of the best places to stay near Disney World, and for good reason.

Distance from Disney World

Kissimmee offers a wide range of vacation homes near Disney, making it one of the most popular areas for families and groups.

Types of Accommodations

Kissimmee offers a wide variety of professionally managed:

• Vacation homes

• Townhomes

• Condos

  
  

  Many include private pools, full kitchens, and multiple bedrooms—features that hotels often can’t match.

Who Kissimmee Is Best For

• Families traveling with children

• Groups needing extra space

• Guests planning stays longer than a few nights

• Travelers who want comfort without resort pricing

Kissimmee also has easy access to grocery stores, restaurants, and entertainment, making it a convenient and well-rounded choice.

Davenport: Quiet, Spacious, and Great Value

Davenport is another popular option for travelers looking for space and value near Disney.

Drive Time to Disney

Davenport is typically 20–30 minutes from the parks, depending on the community and traffic.

Why Travelers Love Davenport

• Larger homes and newer communities

• Less congestion than more tourist-heavy areas

• Lower nightly rates compared to areas closer to the parks

Best For

• Larger families or groups

• Extended stays

• Guests who prefer quieter neighborhoods

• Budget-conscious travelers who still want quality accommodations

While the drive is slightly longer, many guests find Davenport’s space and pricing well worth it.

Orlando: Close to Attractions, but Often More Expensive

Orlando proper includes areas close to Disney as well as major tourist corridors.

Resort Areas vs Residential Areas

Orlando is home to many resort-style hotels and short-term rentals, but accommodations here often:

• Offer less space

• Have higher nightly rates

• Include added resort or parking fees

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Close to theme parks

• Access to nightlife and attractions

Cons

• Smaller accommodations

• Higher costs

• Heavier traffic

Orlando can be a good fit for short stays or travelers who prioritize proximity over space.

Vacation Homes vs Hotels Near Disney World

One of the biggest decisions travelers face is choosing between a vacation home and a hotel.

Vacation Homes Offer:

• Multiple bedrooms and bathrooms

• Full kitchens and laundry

• Private pools or resort amenities

• More privacy and room to relax

Hotels Often Mean:

• Smaller rooms

• Higher per-night costs for families

• Limited privacy

• Extra fees

For families, groups, and longer trips, vacation homes often provide better value and comfort compared to traditional hotel stays.

How to Choose the Best Area for Your Disney Trip

When deciding where to stay near Disney World, consider the following:

• Trip length: Longer stays benefit from more space and kitchen access

• Group size: Larger groups need multiple bedrooms and living areas

• Budget: Areas like Kissimmee and Davenport often offer better value

• Transportation: Driving distance and parking preferences matter

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but choosing the right area can dramatically improve your vacation experience.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Area to Stay Near Disney World

If you’re looking for the best balance of location, value, and comfort, Kissimmee is often the top choice for Disney travelers. Davenport is ideal for those wanting extra space and quieter surroundings, while Orlando works well for short stays focused on attractions.

No matter which area you choose, staying in a professionally managed vacation home near Disney World gives you the freedom, space, and comfort to truly enjoy your trip.

Ready to Find Your Perfect Disney Area Vacation Home?

If you’re searching for a professionally managed vacation home near Disney World, browse our available homes to find the perfect fit for your family or group or contact us with any questions you may have..