The great thing about the Disneyland Resort area is that, despite the compact footprint compared to Walt Disney World, there are still plenty of different types of hotel and motel options for travelers. Over the last few months, I’ve stayed at several different Good Neighbor Hotel categories from moderate to superior, but never a one of the many suite hotels that are available. So this time around, I visited the Candlewood Suites, which leans more toward guests that are extending their stay in Southern California and want a more homey feel.
The Disneyland Resort is surrounded by locally owned and chain non-Disney eateries, lodging and more, so sometimes there are some great options (and values) to be had just outside of the gates. When it comes to hotels, Disney has partnered with nearly 60 area hotels, including Candlewood Suites, that can be included with your tickets as part of a Disneyland Resort Good Neighbor Hotel Vacation Package.
The Candlewood Suites Anaheim Resort Area has 152 spacious suites that include full kitchens, which are perfect for families that want to prepare some of their own meals and maybe even save a little money. The hotel even has barbecue grills available…more on that later.
Candlewood features 1-Bedroom Suites with a Queen bed or Studio Suites with either a Queen bed or 2 Double beds. Again, both options include a kitchen.
I was upgraded to a 1-Bedroom Suite, which honestly, was way more space than a single guy needed. It would be perfect for a small family.
The kitchen features a stove top, microwave, toaster, dishwasher, full-size refrigerator, and coffee maker, plus all of the utensils, cutlery, pots, pans, and plates you’ll need.
Across from the kitchen is a living room with a sofa bed, recliner, and television. Situated between the living room and kitchen is a bar seating area.
Just inside the suite is a closet and next door, the bathroom.
The bathroom includes a small countertop, along with shelving above and below, plus a toilet and bathtub with a shower.
Both the sink and the shower feature Dove bath products.
The bedroom has a comfortable Queen-size bed, two nightstands, a dresser, a television, and a closet.
The 2nd floor outdoor area features a small pool, loungers, seating, and as we mentioned before, several barbecue grills.
Also on the 2nd floor is a large gym that is available 24 hours a day. Nearby are the hotel’s laundry facilities. Use of the washers and dryers is free, but soap and fabric softener are extra.
With kitchens available in every suite, the lobby has a nice selection of food items for purchase. While it won’t replace a trip to the grocery store (or a delivery from the grocery store), the option is there.
The lobby even has a small selection of Disney souvenirs.
While it’s possible to walk to the Disneyland Resort, I utilized the Anaheim Resort Transportation buses, which pick up right outside the hotel.
Parking is available in two garages underneath the hotel. Parking is currently $17.55 per night, however, because I booked with Dreams Unlimited Travel, my parking was free.
The Candlewood Suites Anaheim Resort Area is a beautiful hotel. I just wish my stay was a bit longer so that I could have enjoyed more of the hotel’s amenities. If your trip to the Disneyland Resort area includes some downtime during your trip or you want the ability to prepare a meal or two during your vacation, an extended stay hotel like the Candlewood Suites might be perfect for you.
