For over a century, The Walt Disney Company has been a global leader in entertainment, enchanting audiences with its movies, television shows, and beloved characters. But Disney’s impact extends beyond the screen it has also become a powerhouse in the hospitality industry, particularly with the creation of its Disney Resorts.
Ever since the opening of Disneyland Park in 1955, the need for Disney-themed lodging has continued to grow alongside the company’s expanding portfolio of theme parks.
Today, Disney’s presence spans across the globe with nine official Disney Resorts, offering both park-goers and non-park guests alike a chance to experience the famous Disney Difference. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in the magic of a Disney park or relax at a beachside getaway, Disney Resorts delivers top-notch service and a uniquely magical experience.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to all the Disney Resorts around the world, showcasing each location and its unique offerings.
1. Disneyland Resort – Anaheim, California
Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California, is the birthplace of the Disney magic we know and love today. Opening in 1955 alongside Disneyland Park, this was the first-ever Disney Resort and remains one of the most beloved destinations for Disney fans.
The Disneyland Hotel, the original Disney accommodation, dates back to the resort’s early days, although it wasn’t fully owned by The Walt Disney Company until 1988.
Today, Disneyland Resort includes two theme parks: Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure. In addition, it features a range of dining, shopping, and entertainment options in the Downtown Disney district.
For lodging, guests can choose from three Disney hotels, including Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel (currently being re-themed as Pixar Place Hotel) and the luxurious Grand Californian Hotel & Spa.
2. Walt Disney World Resort – Orlando, Florida
Perhaps the most iconic Disney destination, the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, opened in 1971 and has since become a sprawling vacation complex that goes far beyond just a theme park.
When it first opened, only Magic Kingdom Park and two on-property resorts, Disney’s Contemporary Resort and Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, were operational. Today, Walt Disney World spans over 25 on-site resorts, ranging from budget-friendly to deluxe accommodations.
Walt Disney World has grown to include four theme parks (Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom), two water parks, and the bustling Disney Springs district, which features world-class dining, shopping, and entertainment. This vast resort truly sets the standard for the Disney difference, combining immersive experiences with incredible amenities.
3. Tokyo Disney Resort – Urayasu, Japan
Tokyo Disney Resort was the first international Disney destination, opening its doors in 1983 with Tokyo Disneyland Park. Located in Urayasu, Chiba, just outside of Tokyo, this resort has since expanded to include Tokyo DisneySea in 2001, a uniquely themed park that draws inspiration from oceanic myths, legends, and cultures. It’s often regarded as one of the most beautifully designed Disney parks in the world.
Tokyo Disney Resort offers a range of lodging options, including five Disney-owned hotels. A sixth hotel, Tokyo DisneySea Fantasy Springs Hotel, is slated to open in 2024, further enhancing this already magical destination.
4. Disneyland Paris – Chessy, France
The second international Disney resort, Disneyland Paris, opened in 1992 in Chessy, France, just outside of Paris. Originally called Euro Disney, the resort was created to expand Disney’s presence in Europe. The resort now consists of two theme parks: Disneyland Park Paris and Walt Disney Studios Park, which was added in 2002.
Beyond the parks, Disneyland Paris offers a range of accommodations, as well as the Disney Village shopping and entertainment district. The resort continues to grow and is currently undergoing significant expansions, including a new Frozen-themed land.
5. Disney’s Vero Beach Resort – Florida, USA
While Disney’s Vero Beach Resort is located in Florida, it’s not affiliated with any of the Disney theme parks. Opened in 1995, this beachside resort was the first Disney Vacation Club property to be built outside of Walt Disney World. Located just two hours southeast of Orlando, this resort offers guests a relaxing coastal escape with the same level of service and attention to detail that Disney is known for.
The resort offers numerous on-site amenities, including dining, recreation, and beachfront activities, making it a perfect getaway for those seeking a Disney experience without the hustle and bustle of the parks.
6. Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort – South Carolina, USA
Following the success of Disney’s Vero Beach Resort, Disney expanded its resort offerings with the opening of Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort in 1996. Nestled in the serene beauty of South Carolina’s Lowcountry, this Disney Vacation Club property provides a charming and tranquil retreat.
Set along the tidal marsh of Broad Creek, the resort offers rustic charm and plenty of nature-based activities, including access to a private beach and numerous on-site amenities. Like Vero Beach, Hilton Head Island Resort is a relaxing escape that highlights Disney’s dedication to impeccable service and family-friendly experiences, even without theme park attractions.
7. Hong Kong Disneyland Resort – Lantau Island, Hong Kong
In 2005, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort opened its doors on Lantau Island, marking Disney’s continued expansion into the international market. This resort currently includes one theme park, Hong Kong Disneyland, which is the largest theme park in Hong Kong.
Guests can stay at one of three Disney-owned hotels: Disney’s Hollywood Hotel, Disney Explorer’s Lodge, and the Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel.
These hotels offer a range of amenities and unique dining experiences, while the resort itself has grown steadily over the years, with new attractions and expansions planned to enhance the guest experience.
8. Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa – Kapolei, Hawaii
Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, opened in 2011 in Kapolei, Hawaii, and is one of the most celebrated Disney Vacation Club resorts. Unlike the parks-based resorts, Aulani is a standalone property located on Oahu’s Ko Olina coastline, offering a unique blend of Hawaiian culture and Disney magic.
With 21 acres of oceanfront property, Aulani provides over 350 hotel rooms and more than 400 timeshare villas. The resort is renowned for its extensive amenities, including world-class dining, a luxurious spa, and plenty of family-friendly activities. Guests can enjoy everything from beachside relaxation to water slides, all with the magic of Disney woven throughout the experience.
9. Shanghai Disney Resort – Shanghai, China
The newest addition to the global Disney resort lineup is Shanghai Disney Resort, which opened in 2016. Located in Mainland China, this resort features Shanghai Disneyland, along with two on-site hotels: Shanghai Disneyland Hotel and Toy Story Hotel.
In addition to the theme park, Shanghai Disney Resort boasts a Disneytown shopping district and Wishing Star Park, a beautiful natural area filled with gardens and walking paths. Shanghai Disneyland has garnered worldwide attention for its blend of Chinese culture and classic Disney storytelling, making it a unique addition to the Disney family.
The Future of Disney Resorts
As The Walt Disney Company continues to expand its reach, there’s no doubt that more Disney Resorts will pop up around the world. Already, the company is working on projects like Storyliving by Disney a planned residential community and further resort expansions like the Disney Communities in Walt Disney World.
With each new development, Disney continues to raise the bar for luxury, entertainment, and family-friendly vacations, ensuring that its resorts remain top-tier destinations for travelers seeking the Disney difference—wherever they are in the world.