EPCOT has become one of the most popular theme parks in Walt Disney World thanks to its nearly continuous food festivals and popular roller coaster, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. And, if you’re planning to try to eat it all and ride multiple times, you’ll likely be at the park often so why not save on transportation time and stay nearby?
With 10 hotels near EPCOT, you might be wondering how you choose the right one, what each one is like, and what amenities are offered when you stay. We’ve got all those details and more!
Why Staying Near EPCOT is a Great Option
Not only is EPCOT one of the most popular theme parks in the world, but it’s also home to some of the best hotels in the area. Here are a few reasons why staying near EPCOT is a great option for your next vacation:
Close Proximity to the Theme Park
One of the biggest advantages of staying near EPCOT is the close proximity to the theme park. Many of the hotels are within walking distance or offer complimentary boat, bus, or skyliner transportation to the park. This means you can spend more time enjoying the park and less time traveling to and from your hotel.
Access to Great Dining Options
EPCOT is known for its amazing dining options, and staying near the park means you’ll have easy access to some of the best restaurants in the area. All of the hotels near EPCOT offer their own dining options, as well as easy access to the restaurants in the park itself.
A Variety of Accommodations
Whether you’re looking for a luxury resort or a budget-friendly option, there are plenty of hotels near EPCOT to choose from. From Disney-owned resorts to off-site hotels, you’re sure to find something to fit your needs and budget.
Additional Perks and Amenities
Staying near EPCOT also comes with additional perks and amenities. Many of the hotels offer exclusive access to the park, early theme park entry, and other special benefits like an extended dining reservation window and early access to Lightning Lane reservations. Plus, you’ll have access to the amenities offered by the hotel itself, such as awesome pools, spas, and fitness centers.
So, what are the 10 hotels near EPCOT? Let’s break down each resort based on its price point and amenities!
Best Deluxe Hotels Near EPCOT
Disney Deluxe Resorts are the most luxurious hotels available in Disney World. When you stay at these resorts you’ll have access to multiple dining options, larger rooms, and extra hotel guest benefits like Extended Evening Theme Park Hours (which give you an extra 2 hours in select parks on select nights). These are also the hotels that are located the closest to EPCOT.
Disney’s Yacht Club
Disney’s Yacht Club is a hotel that’s located just a short walk from EPCOT (though boat transportation is also available). The hotel features a nautical theme and has a variety of amenities, including a huge pool with a lazy river and sand bottom, a fitness center, and several restaurants.
Disney’s Beach Club
Disney’s Beach Club is another great option for those looking for a deluxe hotel near EPCOT. The hotel has a beachy theme and features a variety of amenities, including a pool with a lazy river and sand bottom (that’s shared with the Yacht Club), a fitness center, and several restaurants (including a character dining experience). The hotel is also within walking distance of the park entrance, though free boat transportation is also available.
Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
Disney’s BoardWalk Inn is a charming hotel that’s located on Disney’s BoardWalk, just a short walk from EPCOT. The hotel has a vintage boardwalk theme and features a variety of amenities, including some of the most unique dining options. Plus, because the hotel is located on the BoardWalk, you’ll also have easy access to nightlife and entertainment, including a popular dueling piano bar.
Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin
The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin is a Marriott-owned and operated hotel that’s located just a short walk or boat ride from EPCOT. The hotel features multiple dining options, a fitness center, and more though it’s important to note that the hotel has less Disney-theming since it is not owned by Disney.
The Swan and Dolphin is considered a Disney Good Neighbor Hotel, so you’ll still be able to enjoy hotel guest perks like Early Theme Park Entry and Extended Evening Theme Park Hours.
Walt Disney World Swan Reserve
The Walt Disney World Swan Reserve is a new hotel that’s located just a short walk or boat ride from EPCOT. The hotel is a bit more luxury-focused compared to its sister resort, the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin, so you may want to consider staying here if you’re looking for something more upscale without the Disney theming.
The Swan Reserve is owned and operated by Marriott though it is considered a Disney Good Neighbor Hotel, so you’ll still be able to enjoy hotel guest perks like Early Theme Park Entry and Extended Evening Theme Park Hours.
Disney’s Riviera Resort
Disney’s Riviera Resort is one of Disney’s newest Disney Vacation Club hotels that is located on the skyliner route, providing easy access to EPCOT. The Deluxe Hotel features some of the best dining options including a coffee shop, quick service restaurant, and rooftop restaurant that hosts a popular character dining experience in the morning and turns into a signature restaurant at night.
Best Moderate Resorts Near EPCOT
Disney Moderate Resorts are just a step below Deluxe Resorts. These hotels usually feature a quick service restaurant, table service restaurant, and pool bar and offer spacious rooms that aren’t quite as big as the luxury resorts. Additionally, the rooms tend to be a bit more spread out and you’ll often need to walk a short distance outside to get to the main amenities and restaurants from your room.
Here are two great Moderate Resorts located near EPCOT:
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort is a popular choice for many visitors to EPCOT. Located on the Disney Skyliner route, this resort offers easy access to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The resort features a tropical theme, with colorful buildings, palm trees, and a large pool area.
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
Another great option for a moderate resort near EPCOT is Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort. This resort is located just a short bus ride from EPCOT, and offers a more upscale experience than some of the other moderate resorts. The resort features Spanish-inspired architecture, with a large lake and beautiful landscaping. Rooms are modern and stylish, with a range of amenities to make your stay comfortable. And, you can upgrade your hotel experience a bit by staying in the Gran Desinto Tower instead of a standard room in the surrounding buildings.
Best Disney Value Hotels Near EPCOT
Disney Value Resorts are the most budget-friendly hotels in Walt Disney World. They usually feature large pools, over-the-top Disney theming, and a food court that opens for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. We suggest looking into these resorts if you plan to spend most of your time in the parks.
Disney’s Pop Century Resort
Disney’s Pop Century Resort is a fun and colorful hotel that celebrates pop culture from the 1950s to the 1990s. The resort features themed pools, a food court, and updated rooms that sleep 4 guests comfortably. It is also located on the Disney Skyliner route, making it convenient to get to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is another great option for families. This resort celebrates classic Disney and Pixar animated movies with themed rooms and family suites that sleep up to 6 adults. You can choose from rooms inspired by The Little Mermaid, Finding Nemo, Cars, and The Lion King. The resort is also located on the Disney Skyliner route which makes getting to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios easy.
Hotels With Convenient Transportation to EPCOT
If you’re hoping to stay near EPCOT, one of the most important things to consider is how you’ll get there! While all of these hotels are close to the park, some are easier to get to than others. Here are all of the transportation options and what hotels they go to:
Hotels with Boat Transportation to EPCOT
- Disney’s Beach Club Resort – This hotel is located within walking distance of EPCOT, but if you don’t feel like walking, you can take a boat instead. The boat ride is about 15 minutes long and drops you off at the park’s International Gateway entrance.
- Disney’s Yacht Club Resort – This hotel is located within walking distance of EPCOT, but if you don’t feel like walking, you can take a boat instead. The boat ride is about 15 minutes long and drops you off at the park’s International Gateway entrance.
- Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin – This hotel is also within walking distance of EPCOT, but the boat ride is a fun alternative. The boat ride takes about 10 minutes and drops you off at the park’s International Gateway entrance.
- Walt Disney World Swan Reserve – If you prefer not to walk to EPCOT, Disney boat transportation also stops by the Walt Disney World Swan Reserve to take guests to the International Gateway entrance in about 10 minutes.
Resorts with Skyliner Transportation
- Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort – This hotel is located about a 10-minute ride on the Skyliner from EPCOT. The Skyliner drops you off at the park’s International Gateway entrance.
- Disney’s Riviera Resort – This hotel is located about a 5-10 minute ride on the Skyliner from EPCOT. The Skyliner drops you off at the park’s International Gateway entrance.
- Disney’s Pop Century Resort – This hotel is located about a 10-15 minute ride on the Skyliner from EPCOT. Note that you will need to transfer to a different skyliner gondola at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, which can take longer if you’re traveling during a busy time of the day.
- Disney’s Art of Animation Resort – Like Pop Century, this hotel is located about a 10-15 minute ride on the Skyliner from EPCOT. You will need to transfer to a different skyliner gondola at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, which can take longer if you’re traveling during a busy time of the day.
Hotels Within Walking Distance
- Disney’s BoardWalk Inn – This hotel is located less than a 10-minute walk from EPCOT’s International Gateway entrance.
- Disney’s Yacht Club Resort – This hotel is located about a 10-minute walk from EPCOT’s International Gateway entrance.
- Disney’s Beach Club Resort – This hotel is also located about a 10-minute walk from EPCOT’s International Gateway entrance.
- Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin – This hotel is located about a 15-minute walk from EPCOT’s entrance.
- Walt Disney World Swan Reserve – This hotel is located about a 15-20 minute walk from EPCOT’s entrance.
Amenities and Features to Consider When Choosing a Hotel Near EPCOT
When choosing a hotel near EPCOT, there are several amenities and features to consider to ensure that you have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Here are some of the key factors to keep in mind:
Proximity to EPCOT
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a hotel near EPCOT is its proximity to the park. Staying close to the park can save you time and money on transportation, and allow you to easily return to your hotel for a break during the day. All of these hotels are close to the park, but some have more convenient transportation options than others.
On-Site Dining Options
Another important factor to consider is the availability of on-site dining options. Many hotels near EPCOT offer a variety of restaurants and cafes, ranging from casual to fine dining, which can be a great way to fuel up before a day at the park or unwind after a long day of exploring.
Recreational Facilities
If you’re looking to relax or even stay fit during your stay, be sure to check out the recreational facilities offered by your hotel. Many hotels near EPCOT offer swimming pools, fitness centers, and other amenities but not all of them, so be sure to do your research in advance.
Room Amenities
Finally, be sure to consider the amenities offered in your hotel room. Some hotels near EPCOT offer spacious suites with separate living areas and kitchenettes, while others offer standard rooms with basic amenities. Be sure to choose a room that meets your needs and preferences, whether you’re traveling with a large family or on a solo trip.
Restaurants and Dining Options Near EPCOT Hotels
When it comes to dining options near EPCOT hotels, you’ll find a variety of choices to satisfy your hunger. Each hotel offers its own on-site dining options including food courts, quick service restaurants, table service restaurants, lounges, and even signature restaurants. The restaurants and dining options will depend on which hotel you choose to stay at so be sure to visit the resort’s website before you book.
Attractions and Activities Near EPCOT Hotels
One of the great things about staying at a hotel near EPCOT is that you’re still close to all the other attractions and theme parks in Walt Disney World! At all of these resorts, you’ll be able to take free Disney transportation to the other three parks, including Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Magic Kingdom. Plus, Disney buses will also take you to Disney Springs, Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park, and Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park if you’re staying at a Disney Resort hotel. And, you’ll also be close to Disney’s golf courses and miniature golf courses if you’re in the mood for a round or two!
EPCOT hotels are also located about 15 miles from Universal Orlando. They’re also 10 miles from SeaWorld Orlando if you’re interested in visiting other Orlando area attractions.
Tips for Booking the Best Hotel Near EPCOT
All of the hotels near EPCOT are great options for your stay if you’re looking to be close to the park. However, there are some things to keep in mind to ensure that you book the one that you and your family will enjoy the most. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Consider Your Budget
Hotels near EPCOT range from budget-friendly to luxurious. Consider your budget and what amenities you are willing to pay for. If you are on a tight budget, you may want to consider staying at a value resort or off-property hotel. If you are willing to splurge, there are several deluxe resorts that offer luxurious amenities.
Location, Location, Location!
When it comes to hotels near EPCOT, location is key. Staying at a hotel within walking distance of the park can save you time and money on transportation. The hotels closest to EPCOT are Disney’s BoardWalk Inn, Disney’s Beach Club Resort, and Disney’s Yacht Club Resort.
Check for Discounts and Deals
Before booking your hotel, be sure to check for any discounts or deals that may be available. Disney often offers discounts for annual passholders, Florida residents, and military members. Additionally, booking your hotel and park tickets together can save you money.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Stay Near EPCOT
Staying near EPCOT can be an exciting and convenient way to experience Disney World. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your stay:
Take Advantage of Extra Time In The Park
If you are staying at a Disney resort, you can take advantage of Eearly Theme Park Entry, which allows you to enter any of the four theme parks 30 minutes before they open for the day any day of the week. Plus, staying at a Disney Deluxe Resort will also qualify you for Extended Evening Theme Park Hours, which give you 2 extra hours in select parks on select nights of the week.
Plan Your Meals in Advance
EPCOT is known for its amazing food options, so it’s important to plan your meals in advance. Make reservations at popular restaurants like Le Cellier Steakhouse and Garden Grill Restaurant 60 days in advance to ensure you get the chance to eat there since these tend to book up fast. You may also want to consider making dining reservations at the restaurants at your hotel too!
Use Disney Transportation
Disney offers free transportation to and from the parks, so take advantage of it! While you can walk to the park from many of the resorts near EPCOT, it may be nice to enjoy a boat ride or Disney’s other transportation options during our stay as well. And, don’t forget that you can also still get to all the other Disney Parks too!
Take Breaks Throughout the Day
EPCOT is a big park, and it can be tiring to walk around all day. Take breaks throughout the day to rest and recharge. You can relax in one of the many shaded areas or grab a snack and people-watch or head back to your hotel for some afternoon pool time since you’re so close.
Don’t forget that you’re also close to Disney’s Hollywood Studios
EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios are located so close to each other that when you stay at a hotel close to EPCOT, you’re also staying at a resort close to Hollywood Studios! This can be even more convenient if you plan to visit multiple parks throughout your vacation or even in one day.
So, do your research and book your next Disney hotel stay! Of course, there are plenty of other great hotels in and around Disney World to consider if you don’t mind traveling a bit further to get to EPCOT as well. You can explore more options here at Eat Sleep Disney.
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