Lake Buena Vista hosts a variety of hotels that serve visitors to Walt Disney World, including Disney-owned resorts and nearby chain hotels. Amenities commonly include pools, fitness centers, and transportation options, but services, names, and policies change frequently. Confirm current property details, shuttle availability, and extra fees before you book.

Overview

Lake Buena Vista is the neighborhood most visitors use when staying near Walt Disney World in Orlando. The area offers a wide range of hotels - from budget chains and family suites to Disney-owned resorts - that cater to visitors headed to the theme parks.

Popular options (examples)

  • Disney's Pop Century Resort (Walt Disney World property)
  • Courtyard Orlando Lake Buena Vista at Vista Centre (Courtyard by Marriott)
  • Comfort Inn Lake Buena Vista
  • Embassy Suites by Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista Resort
Other properties have appeared on past lists, but names and brands change over time (for example: Wyndham Palace Resort and Spa, Westgate properties, Doubletree Guest Suites, Royal Plaza). If you rely on a specific hotel brand or a historic name, confirm the current property name before booking.

Typical amenities and services

Hotels around Lake Buena Vista commonly offer:
  • Shuttles or transportation options to Walt Disney World theme parks (services vary by property; some hotels have reduced or discontinued free shuttle service and many guests now use ride-hailing or paid shuttles). 1
  • Outdoor pools, fitness centers, and on-site dining
  • Family-friendly rooms and suites, often with kitchenettes or sofa beds
  • Business conveniences such as Wi-Fi, meeting space, and laundry facilities
  • Pet policies vary widely; many chain hotels allow pets for a fee while others do not. Always check a hotel's current pet policy before you travel. 2

What to check before you book

  • Current property name and ownership. Hotels rebrand or change management frequently.
  • Transportation and shuttle details: is it free, scheduled, or suspendable?
  • Extra fees: parking, resort fees, pet fees, and rollaway charges.
  • Cancellation and refund rules, especially for park tickets and package deals.

Choosing the right base for your trip

If your priority is time inside the parks, a Disney-owned resort provides earlier theme-park entry and direct Disney benefits. If you want lower nightly rates and flexible dining options, nearby hotels in Lake Buena Vista or International Drive can save money while still keeping you within a short drive or shuttle ride of the parks.

Quick tips

  • Compare total cost (room rate + parking/resort fees) rather than headline rates.
  • Check recent guest reviews for updates on shuttle service and renovations.
  • If you plan to drive, confirm on-site parking rules and fees.
  1. Confirm current names and operational status for properties listed historically (Wyndham Palace Resort and Spa, Westgate Blue Tree Resort, Doubletree Guest Suites, Hotel Royal Plaza) [[CHECK]]
  2. Verify which Lake Buena Vista hotels currently provide free shuttle service to Walt Disney World and the terms of those services [[CHECK]]
  3. Confirm current pet policies and any pet fees for the commonly referenced hotels [[CHECK]]

FAQs about Lake Buena Vista Hotels

Are there hotels in Lake Buena Vista that offer free shuttles to Walt Disney World?
Many hotels historically offered free shuttles, but policies vary now. Some properties still provide complimentary shuttle service, while others have reduced or eliminated it. Confirm shuttle details with the hotel before booking.
Is Lake Buena Vista the same as Walt Disney World?
No. Lake Buena Vista is a neighborhood/community in the Orlando area commonly used as a base for visiting Walt Disney World, which is a nearby theme-park complex.
Do hotels near Lake Buena Vista allow pets?
Pet policies differ by hotel. Some chain hotels allow pets for a fee and with size limits; Disney-owned resorts generally have strict rules and limited pet-friendly options. Always verify the current pet policy before you travel.
Should I book a Disney-owned resort or a nearby hotel?
If you want Disney benefits like early park entry and immersive theming, a Disney-owned resort is a good choice. If you prefer lower rates and more dining options, nearby Lake Buena Vista or International Drive hotels provide value and convenient access.
What hidden fees should I watch for?
Watch for parking fees, resort fees, pet fees, and charges for in-room amenities or Wi-Fi. These can significantly increase the total cost beyond the nightly rate.