Hey guys! Planning a trip to Disney is super exciting, but let's be real, it can also be a bit overwhelming. One of the biggest things to consider is where you're going to stay. Sure, there are tons of hotels around Disney, but if you're looking to save some money and have a little more flexibility, then hotels with kitchens are the way to go! You get to enjoy the magic of Disney and the comfort of preparing your own meals, how awesome is that?

Why Choose a Hotel with a Kitchen Near Disney?

Okay, let's dive into why snagging a hotel with a kitchen near the Magic Kingdom is a brilliant idea. We're talking about more than just having a mini-fridge for your soda. A full kitchen can seriously upgrade your vacation game, especially when you're hitting up Disney with family or a big group.

• Save Money: Let's be honest, Disney can be expensive. Eating out for every meal can really add up. With a kitchen, you can hit up a local grocery store, stock up on breakfast essentials, snacks, and even some dinner ingredients. Imagine starting your day with a homemade breakfast before hitting the parks – your wallet will thank you!
• Dietary Needs and Preferences: Got picky eaters or family members with dietary restrictions? A kitchen is a lifesaver! You can whip up gluten-free goodies, vegan delights, or just plain old comfort food that everyone will enjoy. No more stressing about finding the perfect restaurant that caters to everyone's needs.
• More Space and Comfort: Hotels with kitchens often come in the form of suites or condo-style accommodations, which means more room to spread out. After a long day of walking around the parks, having a separate living area to relax in can make a huge difference. Plus, you can avoid tripping over each other in a cramped hotel room.
• Convenience: Let's talk about convenience. Early mornings at the parks mean early breakfasts. Preparing something quick in your own kitchen saves time and hassle. And those late-night cravings after the fireworks? No need to order expensive room service – just raid your fridge and whip something up!
• Family Bonding: Believe it or not, cooking together can be a fun family activity. Get everyone involved in prepping meals, and you'll create some awesome memories. It's a chance to slow down and enjoy each other's company amidst the whirlwind of a Disney vacation.

Top Hotels with Kitchens Near Disney

Alright, guys, let’s get into the good stuff. Finding the perfect hotel with a kitchen near Disney can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack, but don’t worry, I’ve done the digging for you! Here are some top contenders that will make your Disney vacation both magical and budget-friendly.

1. Embassy Suites by Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista South

Embassy Suites is always a solid choice, and this location near Lake Buena Vista South is fantastic. Not only do you get spacious suites, but you also get a fully equipped kitchen, a free cooked-to-order breakfast, and a complimentary evening reception with drinks and snacks. Seriously, it's like hitting the jackpot! Plus, the kids will love the pool, and you'll appreciate the proximity to Disney.

• Why it's awesome: Free breakfast and evening reception, spacious suites, fully equipped kitchens, and a great pool area. It's perfect for families looking for comfort and value.

2. Homewood Suites by Hilton Orlando Theme Parks

Homewood Suites is another excellent option for families. The rooms are spacious, and the kitchens are well-equipped with everything you need to prepare meals. The hotel also offers a complimentary hot breakfast, which is a huge plus when you're trying to get out the door early for the parks. And let's not forget the pool and other family-friendly amenities.

• Why it's awesome: Free hot breakfast, spacious suites with full kitchens, complimentary grocery shopping service, and a relaxing pool area.

3. Residence Inn by Marriott Orlando Lake Buena Vista

Residence Inn is known for its apartment-style suites, which are perfect for extended stays or families who want extra space. The kitchens come with all the essentials, and the hotel offers a complimentary breakfast buffet each morning. Plus, there's a pool, a fitness center, and even a sports court for some outdoor fun. What more could you ask for?

• Why it's awesome: Spacious suites with full kitchens, free breakfast buffet, a pool, a fitness center, and a sports court. It's like having a home away from home!

4. Floridays Resort Orlando

If you're looking for a more resort-style experience, Floridays Resort is an excellent choice. The suites are huge and luxurious, with fully equipped kitchens, separate living areas, and even private balconies. The resort has multiple pools, a splash park, and a game room, so there's plenty to keep everyone entertained.

• Why it's awesome: Luxurious suites with full kitchens and private balconies, multiple pools, a splash park, and a game room. It's like having your own private paradise!

5. Star Island Resort and Club

For those seeking a truly upscale experience, Star Island Resort and Club is the place to be. This resort offers spacious villas with fully equipped kitchens, separate living and dining areas, and private balconies. You'll also have access to a wide range of amenities, including a golf course, a spa, multiple pools, and various dining options.

• Why it's awesome: Luxurious villas with full kitchens and private balconies, a golf course, a spa, multiple pools, and various dining options. It's perfect for those who want to splurge on a truly unforgettable vacation.

Tips for Saving Money on Food at Disney

Okay, so you’ve booked your hotel with a kitchen – great job! Now, let’s talk about how to maximize your savings on food while still enjoying all the delicious treats Disney has to offer.

• Plan Your Meals: Before you even leave home, sit down and plan out your meals for the week. This will help you create a shopping list and avoid impulse purchases at the grocery store. Think about easy breakfasts like cereal or oatmeal, packable lunches like sandwiches or salads, and simple dinners like pasta or tacos.
• Hit the Grocery Store: Once you arrive, head straight to the grocery store. Stock up on all the essentials, as well as some snacks and drinks. Consider stores like Publix or Walmart, which tend to have lower prices than the shops near the theme parks.
• Pack Snacks: Don't underestimate the power of snacks! Bring along granola bars, fruit, crackers, and other easy-to-carry treats to keep hunger at bay while you're in the parks. This will prevent you from spending a fortune on overpriced snacks.
• Take Advantage of Free Dining (If Available): Keep an eye out for Disney promotions that include free dining. If you can snag one of these deals, it can save you a significant amount of money on food. Just be sure to do the math and make sure it's actually a good deal for your family.
• Eat Breakfast in Your Room: Start your day with a hearty breakfast in your hotel room. This will fill you up and give you energy for the morning. Plus, it's much cheaper than eating breakfast at a restaurant or in the parks.
• Pack a Cooler: Bring a small cooler with you to the parks. This will allow you to bring your own drinks and snacks, which can save you a lot of money. Just be sure to check Disney's rules about cooler sizes before you go.
• Share Meals: When you do eat at restaurants, consider sharing meals. Disney portions tend to be large, so you can often split an entrée between two people. This is a great way to save money and reduce food waste.
• Bring Reusable Water Bottles: Staying hydrated is essential, especially in the Florida heat. Bring reusable water bottles and refill them at water fountains throughout the parks. This will save you from buying expensive bottled water.

Making the Most of Your Kitchen

So, you've got that awesome kitchen – now let's make sure you use it to its full potential! Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Breakfast Bonanza: Instead of rushing to grab something quick (and expensive) every morning, why not make breakfast a fun family affair? Pancakes, waffles, omelets – the possibilities are endless! Plus, it's a great way to bond before hitting the parks.
• Lunchtime Legends: Pack a picnic lunch to take with you to the parks. Sandwiches, salads, wraps – all easy to prepare and much cheaper than buying lunch inside. Find a nice spot to relax and enjoy your meal.
• Dinner Delights: After a long day of walking, the last thing you want to do is go to a crowded restaurant. Whip up a simple dinner in your kitchen – pasta, tacos, pizza – and enjoy a relaxing evening in your suite.
• Snack Attack: Keep a stash of healthy snacks on hand to avoid those impulse buys. Fruits, veggies, yogurt – all great options to keep you energized throughout the day.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a hotel with a kitchen near Disney is a game-changer. You'll save money, have more flexibility, and enjoy the comforts of home. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your magical and budget-friendly Disney vacation today!