StarwoodGuy: Palm Springs and Disney Birthday Getaway

After leaving Palm Springs we made the drive to Anaheim, typically under a 2 hour trip but on the busy Memorial Day Monday, almost 4 hours. I have stayed at the Sheraton Park several times, a brief 10 minute walk to downtown Disney and the entrance to both Disneyland and California Adventure, it is a perfect choice for those not wanting to spend more on the expensive Disney properties. The only downside is that unlike the SPG Swan and Dolphin in Disney World, the Sheraton Park does not get the magic hour benefits as it is a ‘friend’ or ‘partner’ hotel, not an actual Disney branded hotel.

This hotel is also in the middle of a needed update, with the lobby being transformed from a 70’s and dated building to modern, clean, and functional. The large tower has great views over Disney for the fireworks at night, with a few floors having been renovated including the Club Lounge, but with a great number of rooms still to go throughout the hotel. The staff at the front desk was amazing as was the attendant in the Club Lounge. The only downside was the new coupon system for use in the Club Lounge which was a little confusing. The drinks in the lounge were previously free, which people loved, but sadly this benefit has gone. The Club Lounge has a basic continental breakfast but great and varied offerings at night time. The pool area and gym are also good at the property with ample seating by the pool area. It is not as flashy as the Disney properties but it is a great SPG choice and especially good for those on a budget. Try to get a room facing Disneyland for fireworks views and the number 11 rooms are the suites.

Our stay was pretty brief with a snack in the Club Lounge then drinks in downtown Disney at Uva, then early to bed so that we could be up early for a quick snack in the lounge, a to go coffee, and then a day at the park. We grabbed an Uber to LAX for $50.00, typically I would recommend flying out of Long Beach or SNA, but at night time we were going against the traffic. As always a great stay here, but I cannot say enough about the staff, they went above and beyond with the suite upgrade and drink coupons for my birthday. Much appreciated!