If you’re the type of person who likes to drop into EPCOT for dinner, hit Magic Kingdom after work, or sneak in a Tron ride before the crowds, then listen up:
🏡 Where you live matters.
Because how close you live can turn your Annual Pass from “nice to have” into “best decision ever.”
Today, I’m sharing the best neighborhoods for Disney Annual Passholders who want to make the most of their investment—without sitting in traffic for 45 minutes each way.
🗺️ What Does “Close to Disney” Actually Mean?
You’ll hear a lot of claims online:
“10 minutes to Disney!”
“Next to the parks!”
“Disney in your backyard!”
But here’s the truth:
Walt Disney World covers 47 square miles and has multiple gates and entrances.
So being “close” depends on which park and which entrance you’re targeting.
That’s why the best communities for passholders have quick access to multiple park entrances—not just proximity to a single gate.
🌟 1. Horizon West / Summerlake / Hamlin
🕒 Drive to Magic Kingdom: 12 minutes via Western Way
🕒 EPCOT & Hollywood Studios: ~18–22 minutes
🕒 Animal Kingdom: ~20 minutes
Why It’s Great:
This master-planned area was practically built with Disney in mind. With smooth Western Way access, you skip I-4 altogether. Plus, you’ve got great schools, tons of shopping, and new developments with trails and lakes.
✨ Local Perk: Many homes have views of the Magic Kingdom fireworks.
🏘️ 2. Celebration
🕒 Drive to all parks: 10–15 minutes depending on the gate
🕒 Disney Springs: 7 minutes
Why It’s Great:
Designed by Disney itself, Celebration offers a storybook atmosphere, charming homes, and a walkable downtown. It’s perfect for APs who want that immersive Disney vibe 24/7.
✨ Local Perk: Celebration has one of the best downtown events calendars year-round—including events themed around the parks.
🏠 3. Reunion / ChampionsGate
🕒 Drive to Animal Kingdom: 15 minutes
🕒 EPCOT & Hollywood Studios: 20–25 minutes
🕒 Magic Kingdom: 25–30 minutes (via 429 or I-4)
Why It’s Great:
Want resort-style living with golf courses, water parks, and luxury amenities? Reunion and parts of ChampionsGate offer condos and homes in gated communities built for convenience and recreation. Ideal for retirees, digital nomads, or snowbirds.
✨ Local Perk: Short-term rental zoning available in many spots—flexible for part-timers or investors.
🏡 4. Storey Lake / Hidden Forest / Bellavida (Kissimmee East)
🕒 Drive to Disney Springs: 10 minutes
🕒 Hollywood Studios & EPCOT: 15–18 minutes
🕒 Magic Kingdom: 25 minutes
Why It’s Great:
Tucked off 535 and Osceola Parkway, these neighborhoods offer quick access to multiple back routes into the parks. Storey Lake in particular has townhomes and villas with fantastic resort amenities and short-term rental zoning.
✨ Local Perk: You’re also super close to Target, Publix, restaurants, and other essentials.
💡 Living the AP Lifestyle: What to Look For
If you’re serious about making Disney a lifestyle—not just a destination—consider these features when house hunting:
✅ Reliable access to 429, 192, or Western Way
✅ Good internet (for those who work remotely & play hard)
✅ Low-maintenance homes or condos
✅ Proximity to non-park essentials: groceries, medical, etc.
✅ Quiet spaces to recover after fireworks-filled nights
🎯 Want to Live Like You’re on Vacation Year-Round?
If park-hopping, midday Dole Whips, and spontaneous fireworks nights sound like your dream life—I can help you find a home that makes it happen.
🏡 Let’s explore homes close to the magic, built for Annual Passholders like you.
📅 Book your strategy call today, and let’s turn the AP lifestyle into your everyday reality.
I’m Timothy Carter, your dedicated Disney World Orlando area relocation expert with The Funk Collection brokered by eXp Realty.
I specialize in helping Disney lovers & theme park enthusiasts find their perfect home or vacation investment property. I’m here to help turn your dreams into reality!
You’ll find everything you need to know about living in the greater Orlando area – from neighborhood guides, real estate tips & the lifestyle of living near the theme parks, to insider advice on relocating to this magical place.
My family moved to Orlando to LIVE the ultimate Disney lifestyle!
You can too! I can help! Click here —-> Meet With Timothy Carter