If you’re planning a trip to Walt Disney World and thinking about staying close to Epcot, you’ve come to the right place! Epcot is not only a fantastic park with cultural experiences and exciting attractions, but staying near it offers some key advantages — especially for families.
From the convenience of being just steps away from the park to the ease of transportation options, staying nearby can make your Disney vacation extra magical. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best hotels close to Epcot, including Disney-owned resorts, non-Disney options, and even budget-friendly picks.
Why Stay Near Epcot?
There are plenty of reasons to stay close to Epcot on your next Disney vacation.
Something for Everyone
Let me start by saying that Epcot is one of our family’s favorite parks. It’s not just about the rides — though Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure and Frozen Ever After are big hits. We love Epcot for the immersive festivals like the Festival of the Arts and the culture-rich pavilions in the World Showcase. But it also has fun activities for kids like unique character meet-and-greets and interactive play areas where they can burn off some steam.
It’s Centrally Located
When we stay close to Epcot, it feels like we’re right in the middle of everything, and we can hop back and forth easily. Many hotels in the Epcot Resort Area allow you to walk to Epcot’s International Gateway, take a quick boat ride to Hollywood Studios, or hop on the skyliner for easy access to those parks or other resort hotels. Plus, Epcot is close enough to The Magic Kingdom and Disney Springs via bus, monorail, or car. This gives you more flexibility with your park days and you can enjoy some seriously awesome hotels with unique perks.
Epcot Hotels Offer Loads of Activities
Whether you want to stroll along Disney’s Boardwalk, float on a lazy river, book a spa day, or grab a massive ice cream sundae, the hotels near Epcot do not disappoint. If you’re planning a rest day or a break from the parks, you won’t be bored resort hopping to nearby hotels. In fact, many Disney guests from other hotels regularly visit Epcot-area resorts to take in all the amenities, dining, and fun.
Disney’s Epcot Area Resorts: On-Site Magic & Convenience
Staying at a Disney-owned Epcot-area resort is a fantastic option for families. First off, you’re immersed in the magic from the moment you check in. Disney resorts offer perks like Extra Magic Hours, early park entry, and free transportation to all the theme parks.
Plus, the theming at Disney resorts is incredible. Each hotel feels like a mini-vacation in itself, with pools, dining options, and activities that keep the whole family entertained.
Here are the best hotels close to Epcot that are owned and operated by Disney:
Disney’s Beach Club Resort
- Resort Category: Deluxe
- Average Room Rates: $550 – $750 per night
Overall Vibes: Charming, Beachy Getaway
If you’re looking to get away and relax at a hotel that is elegant with just a touch of Disney magic, Beach Club is a great option. Its rooms and grounds are not overly themed like some other Disney resorts. Recent room remodels subtly incorporate Donald Duck and his nephews — Huey, Dewey, and Louie — into artwork and other decor touches throughout the space. While Beach Club shares many amenities with the neighboring Yacht Club, the Beach Club is a pretty compact and easy-to-navigate resort with all of the amenities and action nearby.
Location Perks: Steps Away from Epcot’s International Gateway
If being close to Epcot is a priority, Disney’s Beach Club Resort is unbeatable. It’s just a short walk (seriously, five minutes!) to the park’s International Gateway entrance. This is a lesser-used entrance to Epcot, meaning fewer crowds in the morning. This entrance puts you right in the World Showcase and you can use your early entry admission to get on popular attractions like Frozen Ever After and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure with no to low weight times. The convenience of strolling back to your room after watching the Harmonious fireworks show is a dream.
Family Perks: Pool Paradise and Character Dining
Stormalong Bay is hands-down one of the best pools on Disney property. It’s a massive, sand-bottom pool with a lazy river, water slide, and even a pirate ship! If your kids love swimming as much as mine, you’ll spend hours here. There’s also character dining at Cape May Café, where you can have beach-themed breakfast with Minnie and friends. This is a great laid-back character breakfast option for anyone staying in a hotel close to Epcot, but it’s particularly convenient for Beach Club guests.
Important Note: Stormalong Bay, the main resort pool at Disney’s Beach Club Resort, will be closed for routine maintenance from January 2025 through June of 2025.
Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
- Resort Category: Deluxe
- Average Room Rates: $550 – $750 per night
Overall Vibes: Sophisticated, Nautical Delight
Yacht Club shares many of the same amenities as Beach Club, including the amazing pool, Stormalong Bay. But it offers a quieter, more refined atmosphere. The nautical theme is elegant — but it doesn’t feel stuffy.
While kids will be perfectly happy here, we think this is a great Epcot-area hotel for adult guests who might be traveling as a couple or with friends. Disney theming in the rooms is very minimal. In fact, it’s almost non-existent. If that’s disappointing to you, then this may not be the right option for your Epcot-base stay.
This hotel does offer a conference center, so it may feel crowded or busy if there are conference guests in town.
Location: Walk or Boat Ride to Epcot
The walk to Epcot is just as easy as it is from the Beach Club, and you can also take a boat ride if you prefer a leisurely start to your day. There is a walkway to Hollywood Studios, but it does take about 20 minutes on foot. Boats and the Skyliner will also take you to Epcot and Hollywood Studios, with buses available to the Magic Kingdom.
Important Note: Stormalong Bay, the main resort pool at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, will be closed for routine maintenance from January 2025 through June of 2025.
Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
- Resort Category: Deluxe
- Average Room Rates: $550 – $850 per night
Overall Vibes: A Lively, Whimsical Seaside Stay
The atmosphere of Disney’s BoardWalk Inn can’t be beat. With carnival-style games, pop-up performances, and vibrant nightlife, this deluxe resort offers something for everyone to enjoy. The way the BoardWalk lights up at night is something special that you won’t find anywhere else on Disney property. Plus, the grounds feel well kept and luxurious. You’ll find quiet spots away from all the action to sit and relax throughout the resort if you so choose.
Recently renovated guest rooms feel large and breezy, with Disney Vacation Club studios, one bedroom, and two bedroom villas available to book in addition to standard rooms. There are vintage-y Disney touches to the room decor and artwork with playful scenes showcasing Mickey, Minnie, and Pluto.
There are very good table-service restaurants on the BoardWalk, including Flying Fish, Trattoria al Forno, and the new Cake Bake Shop. And no boardwalk promenade is complete without ice cream.
Location: Scenic Stroll Along Crescent Lake
BoardWalk Inn is another fantastic option within walking distance to Epcot. The walk takes you right by Crescent Lake along the lively BoardWalk setting, filled with restaurants, shops, and evening entertainment like street performers and carnival games. It’s a great choice if you want to be near both Epcot and Hollywood Studios, as you can walk to both parks from here. Other types of transportation, including boats and buses, are available to get guests to all the Disney theme parks.
Family Perks: Spacious Suites and Evening Fun
One of the things we love about BoardWalk is the evening atmosphere. After a day at the parks, the BoardWalk comes alive with activities, making it a fun place to explore with the kids. There are also suites available for larger families, offering more space to spread out and relax after a busy park day.
Disney’s Riviera Resort
- Resort Category: Deluxe
- Average Room Rates: $450 – $800
Overall Vibes: Refined European Elegance
Disney’s Riviera Resort presents a contrast to the relaxed, beachy atmosphere of its nearest neighbor hotel, Caribbean Beach. That’s because this deluxe Disney hotel pays homage to European style and elegance with a towering structure that is accented by archways, terraces, and artwork. This hotel offers Skyliner access to Epcot and some of the best dining experiences on Disney property.
There are a variety of room types to choose from here, including Tower Studios which are set up with just enough space for two people. While these studio rooms are small, they offer adults traveling without kids a more affordable way to enjoy the resort. But if you have a big family and want to stay at the Riviera, it’s not an issue. The hotel offers 1 to 3 bedroom villas and deluxe studios that can comfortably accommodate larger families.
Location: A Quick Skyliner Ride Away
While not technically within walking distance of Epcot, Disney’s Riviera Resort is only a short ride away via the Disney Skyliner. This makes getting to Epcot and Hollywood Studios a breeze, and you get the added bonus of relaxing with a scenic ride. As with the other Epcot area hotels, bus transportation is available to the Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom parks.
Family Perks: Lawn Games, Family Suites & Character Breakfast
The Riviera is a great option for families who want to mix fun and sophistication. The multi-bedroom suites offer ample accommodation for bigger families. There are two pools for relaxation, lawn games like a life-sized chess set and bocce ball, nightly campfires and movies, and more. Plus, the Riviera is home to one of the best Disney character breakfasts on property at Topolino’s Terrace. Enjoy delicious and unique breakfast items while spending time with Mickey, Minnie, Donald, and Daisy all dressed up in art-inspired outfits. It’s a must-do if you’re staying in one of the hotels close to Epcot.
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
- Resort Category: Moderate
- Average Room Rates: $350 – $450
Overall Vibes: A Vibrant, Colorful Getaway
Staying at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort feels like a mini-vacation within your Disney vacation. The resort is divided into different “islands” inspired by Caribbean locales like Jamaica, Aruba, and Martinique, each with its own unique charm. The main pool, Fuentes del Morro Pool, is a family favorite, designed like a colonial Spanish fortress complete with water cannons and two waterslides.
Many of the resort rooms have recently undergone renovations, with the most exciting happening in the Trinidad section. The former pirate-themed rooms have been upgraded to 5th sleeper rooms with subtle Little Mermaid theming.
Location: A Skyliner Hub with Epcot Access
While Caribbean Beach is not within walking distance to Epcot, the resort is one of the main hubs for the Disney Skyliner, which provides easy access to both Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The Skyliner station is centrally located within the resort, and it’s a short, scenic ride to Epcot’s International Gateway entrance.
This is a large resort, so you may have to do a lot of walking to get to all of the amenities. There’s also an internal bus loop, which makes taking the bus to the Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, and Disney Springs a bigger hassle than some other Epcot area hotels.
Family Perks: Relaxed Atmosphere with Kid-Friendly Pools & Beaches
Caribbean Beach is ideal for families who want a blend of relaxation and Disney fun. The resort has several quiet pools spread across the “islands” for a more laid-back experience, plus an amazing feature pool for all-day water play. It also has sandy beaches where kids can build sandcastles and parents can unwind. And since Caribbean Beach is a Skyliner resort, it’s incredibly convenient for popping over to Epcot in the mornings or coming back in the evenings after fireworks.
Non-Disney Resorts Nearby: Staying Off-Site Without Sacrificing Proximity
Staying off-site at a non-Disney property can offer some great benefits — most notably, you’ll often get more space or luxury at a lower price compared to Disney-owned resorts. Many non-Disney resorts near Epcot also offer family-friendly amenities, and several of them provide shuttle services to the parks, so you won’t miss out on convenience. Some even offer Disney-exclusive perks like early entry and extended evening hours.
Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotels
- Average Room Rates: Swan = $200 – $300 per night; Dolphin = $300 – $500 per night
Overall Vibes: Upscale Hotels With Plenty of Perks
The Swan and Dolphin are technically on Disney property, but they’re owned by Marriott. These hotels are a fantastic option if you’re a Marriott rewards member or if you want to stay close to the magic without the Disney price tag.
While many people lump these hotels together, there are some differences between the Swan and Dolphin Hotels. The Swan has a smaller footprint and operates under Marriot’s Westin brand. It is a bit more upscale and quiet compared to the Dolphin. We’d recommend the Swan more for couples without kids or an adult-only friend’s trip. The Dolphin is a bit more buzzy in its atmosphere and it’s quite a bit larger, with more dining options. The Dolphin is a Sheraton hotel.
Location: Non-Disney Hotel That’s Walkable to Epcot
Both the Swan and Dolphin are located right between Epcot and Hollywood Studios, making it super easy to get to both parks by either walking or taking a boat ride. If staying at one of these properties, you can also enjoy the other nearby resorts such as the Disney Yacht and Beach Club and the Boardwalk Inn.
Family Perks: Disney Perks and Camp Dolphin
One of the best things about staying at the Swan or the Dolphin, besides the budget savings, is the fact that guests receive some exclusive Disney perks. These include early theme park entry and extended evening hours on select nights. So, you get some of the same benefits of booking directly with Disney without the steep hotel prices.
But besides the extra hours of fun, families can find plenty to occupy their time at these resorts. Camp Dolphin is a club for kids ages 5-12 that provides supervised activities and fun. This means you can drop the kids off to enjoy a date night at nearby hotels or in Epcot.
Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek
Average Room Rates: $300 – $400
Overall Vibe: Upscale, Family-Friendly Fun
Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek is perfect for families seeking a high-end, resort-style experience close to Epcot. This resort shares its amenities with the Waldorf Astoria Orlando, giving guests access to additional premier restaurants, a full-service spa, and an 18-hole championship golf course. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with family-friendly amenities and views of the Disney fireworks from select rooms.
And let’s not forget about the food. With over a dozen dining options, including the popular La Luce, a modern Italian restaurant, and Harvest Bistro for family-friendly meals, there’s something to satisfy everyone’s taste.
Location: Minutes from Epcot with Shuttle Service to Disney Parks
Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek offers a sophisticated stay with close proximity to Epcot and the other Disney parks. Located within the Bonnet Creek Resort area, this hotel provides shuttle service to Disney parks, making it an easy and convenient choice for families who prefer a luxury experience just minutes from the magic.
Family Perks: Lazy River Pool and Easy Park Access
Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek is known for its stunning pool area, complete with a lazy river, waterslide, and poolside cabanas. This makes it a big hit with kids, and parents appreciate the luxury atmosphere. Plus, with reliable shuttle service to Epcot and other Disney parks, getting to the magic is stress-free.
Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek
Average room rates: $200 – $300 per night
Overall Vibes: A Sprawling and Spacious Family Resort
Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek offers an ideal blend of comfort, convenience, and fun. The accommodations range from stylish, well-appointed guest rooms to spacious suites with balconies overlooking the Bonnet Creek nature reserve or the resort’s impressive pool areas. And the pool areas at this hotel are impressive. The resort offers five pools and two lazy rivers, making it a great choice for families planning a few rest days away from the parks.
Location: Bonnet Creek Tranquility With Shuttle Service
Located in the beautiful Bonnet Creek area, this resort sits within Disney property, though it operates independently from Disney. Its prime location places it just minutes away from Epcot and a short hop to Disney’s other theme parks. We also like this option because it’s very close to Disney Springs, allowing you to explore all the shopping and dining options over there.
The Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort offers convenient shuttle services to the Disney parks, including Epcot, allowing guests to enjoy hassle-free transportation without needing to drive or park.
Family Perks: Plenty of Pools, Games and Miniature Golf
Spend the day splashing away in the resort’s pools or floating along the lazy river. Kids will also enjoy miniature golf that is on property as well as an arcade, cornhole, shuffleboard, and ping pong. Adults that feel like getting in some relaxation can book an appointment at the Blue Harmony Spa. It’s also worth noting that the rooms at this Wyndham hotel are spacious and big — a nice perk for families who value space and want to spread out.
Hotels Within Walking Distance to Epcot
If you want the ultimate convenience, many of the hotels on our Epcot hotels list are walking distance to the theme park. These include:
- Disney’s Yacht Club
- Disney’s Beach Club
- Disney’s Boardwalk Inn
- Walt Disney World Swan
- Walt Disney World Dolphin
- Walt Disney World Swan Reserve
Hotels with Shuttle Service to Epcot
If walking distance isn’t a must, but you still want easy transportation to Epcot, there are several non-Disney hotels that offer free shuttle services. These include:
- Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista
- B Resort & Spa
- Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Resort
- Holiday Inn Orlando
- Waldorf Astoria Orlando
- Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek
- Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek
- Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld
- Marriott’s Grande Vista
- Courtyard by Marriott
- SpringHill Suites Orlando Lake Buena Vista
Note that some of these hotels are located further from Epcot than others, so shuttle length and schedules may vary. Visit the hotel website or call guest services to check on specific shuttle information for each hotel.
Budget-Friendly Options: Saving Money While Staying Close to the Magic
If you’re looking to save some money but still want easy access to Epcot, there are a few great budget-friendly options on Disney property. While these hotels are not located right near Epcot, they do provide a quick trip into the theme park via the Skyliner.
Disney’s Pop Century Resort
Pop Century is one of Disney’s value resorts, and it’s an awesome option if you want to stay on property without breaking the bank. The Skyliner provides direct access to Epcot, and the fun, larger-than-life theming is perfect for kids.
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Art of Animation is another value resort with Skyliner access. The themed family suites (Cars, The Lion King, and Finding Nemo) are a huge hit with younger kids, and the extra space in the suites makes it a great option for larger families.
Transportation Tips: Getting to Epcot Easily from Your Hotel
Whether you’re walking, taking a boat, or riding the Skyliner, getting to Epcot from any of these hotels is easy. Here are some tips to make the experience stress-free.
Prep your stroller or the Skyliner. For families with small children, I highly recommend taking the Skyliner if you’re staying at a resort that has it as a transportation option. Most single strollers will not need to be broken down and closed when boarding. But if you’re coming with a double stroller, realize that you may have to collapse it if it’s too wide. Double strollers with front and back seats are your best bet for hassle-free Skyliner rides, since they should roll on without any issue.
Pay attention to schedules. If you need to take a bus or a shuttle to the Disney parks from your hotel, make sure to ask guest services for information about the schedules. While most Disney buses run frequently, they can become crowded very early in the morning or late at night as most people are going to and from the parks. Arrive early to wait for your bus or shuttle to ensure a timely departure.
Know your Epcot arrival entrance. Epcot has two entrances — the main entrance at the front of the park and the International Gateway in the back of the park by World Showcase. These entrances are in completely different locations. The Skyliner will drop you off at the International Gateway. This is also where you’ll arrive if you’re planning on walking from a nearby resort. Monorail, buses, and parking all has guests arriving at the front of the park. Where you arrive for early entry or rope drop can greatly impact what you can get done, so don’t get confused.
Plan for parking if necessary. If you are not taking Disney transportation or a hotel shuttle, make sure to budget for parking fees and give yourself enough time to arrive at Epcot, park, and get through security. If you will be park hopping using other transportation and plan to leave your car in the Epcot parking lot, make sure you know what time Epcot closes so that you can safely retrieve your car at the end of the day.
Stay in the Epcot Epicenter
Staying close to Epcot can truly enhance your Disney vacation. Whether you choose a Disney-owned resort for that extra bit of magic or a nearby off-site hotel for more budget-friendly accommodations, you’re sure to find something that fits your family’s needs. Don’t forget to book early—hotels close to Epcot can fill up fast, especially during popular times like festivals or holidays.
