Howard Johnson Anaheim Hotel & Water Playground is a Disneyland with Kids delight. This hotel has been part of the Disneyland Resort area since 1965—that’s just 10 years younger than Disneyland itself. But don’t let age fool you; the property has held its own in Anaheim for 50+ years as it is continues to adapt and upgrade to suit your family’s needs. Note this stay was provided by Howard Johnson, all opinions are our own. 
Is Howard Johnson Close to Disneyland?
Howard Johnson comes highly recommended when visiting Disneyland with kids because of its close proximity to Disneyland. You can actually see Disneyland Park from the hotel and it is about an 8 minute walk to the parks. Need an afternoon nap or swim break? It’s not a problem when you stay at Howard Johnson where their motto is,”It’s fun to be in the front row.”
Howard Johnson Anaheim Hotel & Water Playground1380 S. Harbor Blvd.
Anaheim, CA 92802
What are the rooms like at Howard Johnson?
First off and most important to me is cleanliness and safety. The rooms here are clean updated and very comfortable. When I last stayed in building 1, I noticed that it wasn’t just a fresh coat of paint. There’s beautiful Disney artwork on the wall, textured wallpaper, new carpet and tile . . . the list goes on and on. And if we’re talking about safety, the parking lot is secured each night and I always felt comfortable walking around the grounds and back-and-forth from Disneyland to tHoward Johnson. Building 1 has been completely renovated and features the following:
- Two beds, with roll away option
- Booth-type seating area with table
- Desk and chair
- Larger than average mini fridge
- Large closet
- In-room safe
- Keurig coffee maker
- Shower and tub combo
- In bathroom vanity
- TV with Netflix, Hulu etc. connection
What freebies are included at Howard Johnson?
When you book a stay at Howard Johnson Anaheim Hotel & Water Playground, these freebies are included:
- Free parking
- Free Wi-Fi access
- Free in-room safe
- Free use of pool
- Free use of water playground
- Free face painting (1st and 3rd Saturdays from 8:30am-10:30am)
- Free $10 savings when you use promo code DisneyKids
What about breakfast? Does Howard Johnson have free breakfast? There’s so many purchases staying at Howard Johnson, however breakfast is only available offsite. I like stopping by McDonald’s for something cheap and quick, picking up Panera Bread right next door or having a sit down meal inside Mimi’s café. There’s really something for everyone just a few steps away. Plus you can have groceries delivered to your hotel if you’re more of do it yourself breakfast person.
Is Howard Johnson good for visiting Disneyland with Kids?
Having a hotel with “water playground” in the name is always a good sign when you’re looking for a place to stay with your family. The water playground is more of a splash pad space with small waterslides, a wading pool and water play area. Toddlers and preschoolers will love playing here. There is also another pool on property which features your typical swimming experience for the whole family.
Be on the pools the hotel has a unique pirate theme to their entire experience. You’ll find balloon animals and swords at hotel check-in, where every front desk employee knows how to create fun balloon creations. Also at check in, get a pirate hat and choose a little treat from the pirate treasure box. There’s also a game room with arcade style video games and a souvenir shop on site.
Combine all those items with renovated rooms, walking distance to Disneyland and the many other perks, it’s a win-win. Remember to claim your $10 savings when you use promo code DisneyKids.
What Members say about Howard Johnson
Are you a member of Disneyland with Kids? See what other group members have to say about Howard Johnson, or as we like to call it “HoJo” 🙂.
Have you ever stayed at Howard Johnson near Disneyland? We want to hear about it and how the hotel worked for your family, both pros and cons. Continue the conversation in our Disneyland with Kids Facebook group.
