Good Neighbor Hotel Advice

[metalz0r]

Hello all,
I'm a long time lurker, first time poster as of today. I've been an AP holder for over ten years, so I definitely know my way around the resort. HOWEVER, I have NEVER stayed the night in the area, as I live in San Diego and usually travel home at the end of every day. I'm eager to say that I will finally be spending an entire evening in Anaheim for the first time next month.

My girlfriend and myself will be joined with my best friend and his girlfriend in late September. We're all on a somewhat small budget, so I am trying to find us the most affordable hotel within walking distance to the park. I believe we are planning on staying the night on Friday, September 23rd.

I guess my question is basically; what would be my best bet to find a cheap hotel within a somewhat moderate walking distance of the park? (we're young, we don't mind walking farther if it saves us money) Is it cheaper to book a hotel through a site like hotwire.com or would it save money to call the hotel directly? Also, does anyone have any recommendations as to what hotel is the "cheapest" without sacrificing TOO much? We really just need two mattresses to sleep on. I'm aware of HoJo but I figured I would ask if anyone knew of a cheaper option? ANY tips are MUCH appreciated! Thanks in advance!

 

[Disneyland1084]

Welcome to the Disboards! In 1992 I stayed across the street at Anaheim Inn. I remember it being nice. I'm not sure of their current prices though. Another option is Jolly Roger. I stayed there once, but I can't remember if it's walking distance. Whatever you decide, I hope you have a good trip.

 

[JH87]

Welcome and yay for your first post!

I have found that the Castle Inn and Suites have always had really good rates lately. I have stayed there 3 times this year! It's the not most popular hotel on these boards (still don't get why) it's basic, clean, and close. I usually look through expedia or travelocity for that one.

The Ramada Maingate at the park is good too. That one usually has higher rates, but I know they are running some pretty good promos in September. I am actually going to book them for my Sept 19-22 trip. The rate I got for that trip is $66/night. I have always found their rates to be excellent during off-season. Their direct website usually has the best deals (ramadamaingate.com)

Yes, the HOJO is probably the most popular choice here. I have never stayed there because I can always find good rates elsewhere that are closer. And since I am like you and just want a place to sleep, I don't really care how 'fancy' a place is.
Good luck with your search!

 

[yenanh00]

If you have entertainment card you can get great discount with Hojo especially if it land on the rapid rewards.

 

[ladylyons]

The last few trips we've done we have stayed at the Anaheim Plaza Hotel. The rooms are big compared to any other hotels we've stayed at. It's an easy walk even when your pushing a stroller which is what we have to do since I have 3 kids under the age of 4. I either book directly through there website or hotels.com depending on who has the rate and room I want available.

 

[DizMe]

I was also going to suggest the Anaheim Plaza Hotel. The rooms are large, the walk is not bad, and the price is really cheap. I just looked into booking it for my (last minute) stay next week and they had a rate of $117/night for 2 connecting rooms! A single room with 2 queen beds was $58.50/night (not counting tax).

Now...I have to say I have only *looked* at it and haven't actually stayed there, but I have read many great reviews on Disney boards. That's why I walked past it last time I was at DLR, and it looked very nice, esp. for the price.

 

[oumagic]

For two people, I have had good luck with Hotwire. The hotels that are 3 1/2 stars and above all are fairly nice. I typically book a room where I am going and then check Hotwire the week before to see if there are any good deals that would lead me to cancel my other reservation. We have only stayed at Grand Californian (last year) and Hotel Menage (@ $55 through Hotwire). We are reserved at HoJo for October on the entertainment rate, but for September the only date showing as of now is September 1.

 

[DahliaRW]

My dh and ds stayed at the anaheim plaza hotel for 2 nights this past week (Su/Mon). I booked it for them via AAA and paid $66/night + taxes. There is also a fee of $4/day for parking. They said it was basic, but clean, and definitely walkable. You're right across from DCA and they could see TOT from their room.

I looked at hotwire/priceline, but they really wanted to be within walking distance and it's impossible to know if you'll get one that close.