Closest/best resort to WDW

[left210]

We are considering coming down for Star Wars weekend and are looking for less expensive options than disney resort but do not want to be far away and spend alot of time getting there. Any suggestions? Small room is fine as it is just 2 adults and one child. Do the non-disney resorts have shuttles that take you to the parks complimentary? The disney buses were nice last time we were there but we did wait sometimes for longer than we expected.

 

[f7prez]

You can't get any closer than these independently owned hotels
http://www.downtowndisneyhotels.com

They offer complimentary shuttle service to the Disney Theme Parks.

Another hotel that is close is here http://www.sheratonsafari.com/

 

[spiceycat]

you will be happier with a rental car.

shuttles to offsite are 3 to 4 times in the morning, and 3 to 4 times in the evening - most of the time morning is just for going and evening is only coming back.

this one is not too bad
http://www.bestwesternlakeside.com/

www.choicehotels.com - but check each one some offer shuttles other don't.

www.hotelkingdom.com - again check to make sure about the shuttles

 

[Cdn Friends of Pooh]

There are a lot of good offsite options...when we go down we stay at the Comfort Suites Maingate East. The rates vary from $70 - $80 per night and we've found the rooms are much larger and cleaner than the Disney moderate resort we tried. They have free shuttles to the parks and also offer a free continental breakfast which also saves a few bucks each day. We rent a car each time we go down so really can't comment on the shuttle service beyond the fact they have it. It's also quite close to the parks. When driving it takes us less than 10 mins to get from the hotel to the parking lot of any of the Disney parks (about 15 to Universal). If you're interested in checking it out here's their website: http://www.comfortsuitesfl.com/

 

[FreddyBeach]

You could try looking at the Windsor Hills Resort. I have not stayed there yet (May '07) but from all reports and from what I have seen online, it looks like quite a spot. You can check out the place we are staying (see my signature) or go to www.windsorhillsrent.com to find other rentals.

The price difference between what you get renting a condo or house, is amazing compared to a Disney hotel (even an offsite hotel). I would LOVE to rent the ritziest room at the Grand Floridian (if $$$ were no object). But the quality and price of a place like Windsor Hills makes it irresistable.

Like I said, I haven't been there yet, but I also haven't heard a discouraging word about it either.

Apparently the resort is only about 2 minutes from the Disney Gates.

Mike in the Maritimes.