Out of countless destinations from all over the globe, Walt Disney World in Orlando, FL holds the top tier for unforgettable family vacations. Millions of visitors flock to this resort each year to take advantage of the world-class theme parks, entertainment, and lodging, all of which are upheld to Disney’s high-quality standards.
As a former Orlando native, I have spent a decent-sized chunk of my life frolicking around the Disney parks and resorts, and for years, I always claimed that the one thing that could make Disney World more magical was if they allowed dogs.
Well, folks…dreams really do come true!
Thanks to an ongoing pilot program that started in 2017, a handful of Disney World’s resorts have opened their doors to families AND their canine companions! Now it’s easier than ever to plan the family vacation you’ve always dreamed of for literally every member of the family!
If you’ve been itching for a getaway to “The Most Magical Place on Earth,” here is everything you need to know about the pet-friendly hotels at Disney World along with lodging recommendations for travelers on a tighter budget!
Before you get into the good stuff, let’s talk logistics! Planning a trip with your pets requires a good deal of planning and research, and preparation is the key!
That’s why you definitely won’t want to be without our FREE Doggie Packing Checklist!
This is the same list I use when packing for a trip with Lady, and it has kept me organized while ensuring I have everything I’ll need to keep my girl healthy and happy during our travels.
Download your free copy right now and let’s start planning your next trip with your fur babies!
4 Pet-Friendly Hotels at Disney World
Back in October 2017, Disney World announced for the first time that it would be testing a new dog-friendly pilot program in select Walt Disney World Resorts. The program was re-evaluated a year later in October 2018, and due to its smashing success, has been extended even longer!
As long as the program retains its positive reviews, visitors will be permitted to bring their furry family members to four of Disney’s on-site resorts. The idea that you can bring your pup to experience that signature Disney magic is a dream-come-true for many of us, including myself!
So without further adieu, here are the Disney resorts that are open to both human and furry guests!
1. Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
The Art of Animation Resort is Walt Disney World’s newest Value Resort Hotel, and although it’s hardly ten years old, it has grown to become one of the most sought-after accommodations on Disney property.
This delightfully detailed hotel boasts four wings reminiscent of beloved Disney films including The Little Mermaid, Finding Nemo, The Lion King, and Cars.
From the themed courtyards to the spacious and comfortable rooms and suites, you and your dog will feel as if you have been drawn right into some of Disney’s best animated movies.
What’s even better? It’s also the home to the largest resort pool in Walt Disney World!
Pet Fee: $50 per night
2. Disney Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
Evoking the romance of rural Louisiana, the Port Orleans Resort – Riverside provides a picturesque setting for visitors to relax and unwind after a fun-filled day in the parks.
Whether you’re savoring the Southern-inspired cuisine from the on-site restaurant or lounging beside the 3-acre pool, it’s nearly impossible to find anything to pick at in the Port Orleans Resort.
When you and your dogs aren’t laying back in your guest room, you’ll definitely want to take a stroll along the lushly-landscaped walking trail that runs alongside the Sassagoula River.
Pet Fee: $50 per night
3. Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
The tranquil waterside setting, wide variety of dining options, and exciting outdoor recreation opportunities aren’t the only things to love about The Yacht Club Resort. It’s also the next door neighbor of EPCOT!
Plus, guests will only have to walk a few steps to enjoy one of my favorite areas of Walt Disney World, the Boardwalk! This area of the resort caters to both families and grown-up visitors with a lovely promenade encircling Crescent Lake, live entertainment, crave-worthy restaurants, an adults-only dance hall, a dueling piano bar, and much more.
Pet Fee: $75 per night
4. The Cabins at Fort Wilderness Resort
Go camping the Disney way! The Cabins at Fort Wilderness are tucked away on 750-acres of pine and cypress forests near the Magic Kingdom. It’s the perfect way to “rough it” without sacrificing the amenities and activities you’d expect from any Disney Resort.
Guests will also have the opportunity to go horseback riding, attend nightly bonfires, or watch the Hoop-De-Doo Musical Revue with an all-you-can-eat country buffet.
A cabin at Fort Wilderness serves as the perfect home-away-from-home for your dogs as each one provides a spacious living area, separate bedroom, kitchen, full bathroom, and private outdoor deck.
Pet Fee: $50 per night
Disney World Pet Policies
A maximum of two dogs will be allowed per guest room at each resort. These rooms will provide easy access to outdoor walkways for exercise and grassy spots for dogs to play relieve themselves.
Pets that stay at the resorts are expected to be well-behaved, properly vaccinated, and on a leash whenever they are not in the rooms.
Before booking your stay, be sure to familiarize yourself with the full list of Disney World’s pet policies and don’t forget to call (407) 939-7539 to let your chosen resort know that you’ll be bringing your dogs.
Extra Amenities For Disney’s Doggie Guests
If pet-friendly rooms at the resorts weren’t enough, Disney also offers extra amenities and special touches for their four-legged guests.
Upon arrival, pets will receive Pluto’s Welcome Kit, which includes a collection of dog-friendly items that you can use during your stay such as:
- Food Bowls and a Mat
- Pet ID Tag
- Plastic Disposable Bags
- Puppy Pads
- Dog Walking Maps
- A Pluto-themed “Do Not Disturb” Door Sign
Since pets are not permitted in the theme parks and other areas of the resort (fingers crossed that they’ll decide to do this one day), you’ll have the option to take your dog to Best Friends Pet Care while you’re out and about. This on-site, full-service facility provides assistance with doggie daycare and other helpful pet services.
On a Tight Budget? Check Out These Pet-Friendly Good Neighbor Hotels
When planning a vacation to Walt Disney World Resort with your family and pets, don’t feel as if you’re limited to the hotels and resorts located on Disney property. There are literally hundreds of hotels in the Orlando area, and thanks to Disney’s Good Neighbor Hotels program, you can enjoy many of the perks of a Disney hotel at only a fraction of the cost.
Many of these hotels are also pet-friendly! Here is a quick look at just a few nearby options that you may be interested in.
For a full list of Disney Good Neighbor Hotels, click here!
Hyatt Place Orlando – Lake Buena Vista
If you’re searching for pet-friendly hotels near Disney Springs, then look no further than the Hyatt Place in Lake Buena Vista!
This brand-new hotel is located just one minute outside of Walt Disney World and provides dog-friendly lodging in their spacious contemporary rooms. In addition to an incredible location, you’ll also enjoy freshly-prepared meals from the Gallery Menu any time of day or night, a heated swimming pool, and a free scheduled shuttle to various locations on Disney property!
Pet Policy and Fees: Only dogs weighing 50 pounds and under or two dogs under a combined weight of 75 pounds are permitted. Fees vary depending on the length of your stay, so be sure to check their pet policies page to learn more.
Residence Inn Lake Buena Vista
For seamless suite living, the Residence Inn in Lake Buena Vista may be for you!
Each suite boasts full-sized kitchens, cozy bedrooms, luxurious bedding, and more. Plus, you’ll be spoiled with a variety of amenities including a heated swimming pool, game rooms, basketball court, and on-site dining.
Pet Policy and Fees: Two pets no heavier than 40 pounds are permitted for an additional fee of $225 per stay.
Sheraton Lake Buena Vista Resort
For a more luxurious resort experience without the hefty price tag, I highly recommend the Sheraton Lake Buena Vista Resort!
This hotel just underwent a $26 million renovation and perfectly highlights the charm of Central Florida with its contemporary yet classic design.
When you’re not frolicking about Walt Disney World, you’ll be invited to unwind by the Sheraton’s two pools, grab a delicious dinner in one of the restaurants, or simply relax with your dogs in your comfortable room or suite!
Pet Policy: Two dogs with a combined weight up to 40 lbs are welcome for FREE!
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Planning on vacationing in the pet-friendly hotels in Disney World? Don’t forget to check out our list of fun places to take dogs in Orlando, FL (outside of the theme parks) or take a look at even more dog-friendly destinations that we’ve visited for ourselves, including nearby Lakeland, FL and Fort Desoto Dog Beach.
