What to expect: The Marriott Suites is a fine choice for vacationing families and conventioneers who want room to spread out in a convenient location without the theme-park ambience. On a scheduled stop for ART (surcharge), which serves the Anaheim Convention Center and Disneyland® Park, many guests won’t even need a car. The hotel’s interior is smoke-free, and designated rooms are pet-friendly.

Amenity highlights: An outdoor pool with spa tub and sundeck are open year-round. A fitness center and a self-serve business center (surcharge) are available 24 hours a day. Wireless Internet access is available in the lobby and in Starbucks, which is open from early morning to late evening. Contemporary fare is served in SunSpot.

Insider tip: Check the Anaheim Visitor and Convention Bureau Web site (www.anaheimoc.org) to find money-saving coupons for airport transportation, whale-watching excursions, dining establishments, and amusements.

What to expect: This angular Anaheim property with Spanish tile roof evokes California Mission style throughout, from the palm-lined driveway to the lobby with exposed beams and enormous wrought-iron chandelier and staircase. Most guests are vacationers, and many take advantage of the hotel's Disneyland shuttle, one of the services covered by the daily resort fee.

Amenity highlights: The Crowne Plaza Resort's lobby and adjacent Mexican restaurant open to an expansive, landscaped courtyard with an inviting swimming pool, spa, and seating areas beneath tall palm trees.

What to expect: Located one mile from Disneyland® Resort and the Anaheim Convention Center, Embassy Suites Hotel Anaheim South has a 14-story atrium filled with tropical plants, waterfalls, koi ponds with turtles, and large boulders. Guests primarily consist of families visiting area theme parks and conventioneers.

Amenity highlights: Complimentary amenities include cooked-to-order breakfasts and nightly receptions with beer, wine, and snacks. For recreation, guests enjoy a medium-sized outdoor pool with adjacent spa tub. Wireless Internet access is available throughout the hotel (surcharge).