Lake Buena Vista Hotels which are not operated by Disney fall into two categories. First are the Downtown Disney Hotels. These "Official Walt Disney World Hotels" are on Walt Disney World Property, but are not operated by Disney. Most of the amenities available to Disney resort guests are also available to Downtown Disney Hotel guests. Second are the Disney Area Hotels. These hotels surround Downtown Disney. They reside outside of Walt Disney World property but are only a 2-3 minute drive to the Downtown Disney Marketplace, Pleasure Island and Downtown Disney West Side. They occupy the best possible location just outside the gates of Walt Disney World.

Disney Resort Hotels can be as much fun as a day at the theme park. Each Disney Resort Hotel has a theme all its own that is carried out in great detail. Staying at a Disney Resort Hotel has its advantages. The hotel service is excellent and you are completely immersed in the magic 24 hours a day. Purchases can be delivered directly to your Disney Resort Hotel. And of course you have unlimited use of the Walt Disney World transportation system. Rooms and dining are more expensive and availability is limited, especially at the last minute.