Your guide to pet-friendly hotels near Disney World

Travelling to Disney World with your pet can be a magical experience for the whole family – paws included. Leaving your companion behind while you go on holiday can be very difficult, and for many, it feels like leaving a family member out of the fun. Luckily, you no longer have to make that choice.

With the growing number of pet-friendly hotels near Disney World, bringing your pet along is more practical than ever. However, it requires careful planning as hotel policies, transport options and amenities can vary. Many hotels near Disney offer thoughtful pet-friendly services and facilities, ensuring your holiday runs smoothly.

Whether you’re booking a dog-friendly Disney resort or a nearby Orlando hotel, these ten essential tips will help you prepare. From early reservations to what to pack for your pet, consider this your go-to guide for a stress-free stay with your four-legged travel companion.

If you’re dreaming of staying at an official Walt Disney World resort, there’s good news – four out of the 26 Disney hotels currently allow dogs (sorry, cat lovers):

1. The Cabins at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort (Magic Kingdom area)

2. Disney's Art of Animation Resort (EPCOT/Hollywood Studios area)

3. Disney's Yacht Club Resort (EPCOT area)

4. Disney's Port Orleans Resort – Riverside (Disney Springs area)

Bear in mind that dog-friendly rooms are limited and often book up months in advance. Each room can accommodate up to two dogs, with nightly pet fees of $75 at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort and $50 at the other three. Guests receive a Disney-branded welcome kit with essentials that may include a bowl, disposable waste bags and an ID tag* – a fun and practical touch for first-time visitors. 

To ensure the comfort of all guests, dog-designated rooms are situated in specific areas. Most resorts offer convenient access to walking paths, making morning and evening strolls effortless.

If you are staying off-site or at a non-Disney hotel, you will find plenty of pet-friendly hotels in the Disney World area with easy access to the parks. Choosing a hotel close to Disney can make pet care easier, especially for breaks during the day.

Here are a few top-rated, nearby options:*

• Four Seasons Resort Orlando: allows dogs and cats up to 11 kilograms, one pet per room and no extra fees. Pet amenities and pet food available for purchase.
• Waldorf Astoria Orlando: max two dogs per room, total weight ≤ 18 kilograms, pet fees $125–$250 per stay and up-to-date vaccinations may be required. Pet welcome pack and optional pet packages available.
• Signia by Hilton Orlando: max two dogs per room, total weight ≤ 18 kilograms, pet fees $75–$125 per stay and up-to-date vaccinations may be required. The hotel offers plenty of walking paths and pet items in the gift shop.
• Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress: allows dogs ≤ 23 kilograms or two dogs ≤ 34 kilograms combined and fees $200–$350 per stay. Must give 72-hour advance notice. Bowls and toys available and multiple pet relief areas on property.
• Drury Plaza Hotel Orlando – Disney Springs Area: dogs and cats allowed, two pets max ≤ 36 kilograms and fees of $50 per night. Pet waste bags available upon request.
• JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa: dogs and cats allowed, two pets max ≤ 18 kilograms and fee of $250 per stay. Multiple pet relief areas around the resort.

Planning a magical Disney getaway with your pets requires a little extra preparation, but it is worth the effort. From understanding resort policies to organising breaks for your dog, these expert tips will help you make the most of your experience. 

Here’s what to keep in mind before you check in:

1. Book far in advance

Pet-friendly Disney hotels are in high demand, especially during peak seasons like school holidays, summer breaks and winter festivities. Booking early ensures you get the best choice of room types, proximity to green spaces and peace of mind that your pet will be welcome.

2. Check pet policies

Before finalising your booking, always review the hotel’s pet policy. Even among Disney resorts that allow dogs, rules may differ. 

Common policies may include:

• Only dogs are permitted – cats and other animals are not allowed
• Pets must be leashed or in carriers outside the room
• Proof of up-to-date vaccinations may be required
• Non-refundable pet fees (varies)
• Breed or weight restrictions (often 35 kilograms or less)
• Pets should not be left unattended for more than seven hours
• Restricted access to certain hotel areas
• Keep a ‘do not disturb’ dog sign on the door when pets are in the room (provided by the hotel)

If you're staying offsite, many pet-friendly hotels near Disney World have similar policies. Always request a copy of the pet agreement before your arrival to avoid surprises. Doing your research can help you choose the best accommodation for both convenience and comfort.

3. Stay near pet-friendly trails

While dogs can’t enter Disney theme parks, several pet-friendly Disney resorts have scenic walking trails. Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort offers rustic woodland paths, the Yacht Club Resort connects to a lakeside loop and Port Orleans features peaceful riverside walks. These spots are ideal for keeping your dog active and happy during your stay.

4. Plan a pet-friendly schedule

While it’s tempting to fill your days with rides and attractions, pet care must stay a priority. Disney World is massive and it may take up to 45 minutes to return to your room for a midday pet check-in. Make sure your Disney schedule includes time for pet walks and breaks. You may check in your pet by:

• Returning for lunch to walk your dog
• Having a family member go back early
• Hiring a pet-sitting service like Disney’s Best Friends Pet Hotel

5. Pack for your pet’s comfort

Your hotel may provide the basics, but your pet will be more comfortable if you bring a few familiar items from home. Some common items to bring on your adventure include:

• Food and treats (including a bowl and spoon, if not provided)
• A comfortable bed or blanket with a familiar scent
• Favourite toys and chews to reduce stress
• Medications, if needed
• Copies of vaccination records
• Waste bags, wipes and travel-size grooming supplies

Many pet-friendly Disney hotels provide supplies like bowls or mats, but bringing your own can give your pet added comfort and stability. If your pet has dietary restrictions, bring enough food for the full length of your stay or head to a local pet store before checking in.

6. Consider doggie daycares or dog-walking services

If you're travelling with a dog and planning long fun-filled days in the Disney parks, doggie daycare is an excellent choice. Spots like the Best Friend Pet Hotel, located within the Walt Disney Resort, help keep your pet happy and safe while you can enjoy your time at Disney worry and hassle-free.

When booking any of these pet-friendly services, ensure that your dog’s vaccinations are current, as most providers require proof of rabies, Bordetella and DHPP vaccines. It is highly recommended to book early, particularly during school holidays.

7. Crate train before your trip

A familiar crate can be a comforting sanctuary for your dog, easing stress and anxiety related to travel. Fill the crate with your pet’s favourite blanket, soft bedding and familiar toys. Start crate training a few weeks before your trip so your dog sees it as a safe, comfortable space.

8. Choose ground-floor rooms

If you have a choice (and if available), ask the hotel for a pet-friendly room on the ground floor, which can make potty breaks quicker and easier, especially for anxious pets or those not used to lifts.

9. Leave pet information with the front desk

For safety reasons, guests are advised to provide a photo of their pet and emergency contact details for hotel staff as an extra precaution, in case you’re delayed returning to the room.

10. Consider pet transportation

Pets are not allowed in any Disney theme park, Disney Springs or on Disney transportation, including Disney's buses, monorails, water taxis or the Disney Skyliner. However, dogs may travel on internal buses at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground and Disney’s Port Orleans Resort. Dogs are also welcome to travel with their owners throughout Walt Disney World via the Minnie Van service, but they must remain on a complimentary pet blanket for the duration of the ride.

Staying at one of the many pet-friendly hotels near Disney World adds extra magic to your trip. A little planning goes a long way in ensuring both you and your pet have a stress-free, comfortable experience. From choosing the right resort and packing thoughtfully to arranging local pet care when you're in the parks, you will be ready to enjoy the best of Disney with your four-legged companion by your side – without missing any of the action.

*Always check the hotel’s current pet policy for details

Disclaimer: the views and opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of our company.