Hi Christine!
Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel. Congratulations on taking on the Dopey Challenge during
Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend!
My first recommendation would be to stay at one of the Resort hotels along the
Resort Monorail. This would include Disney's Contemporary Resort, Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa or Disney's Polynesian Village Resort. The morning of the half marathon and the full marathon, the monorail is open which is a great convenience for getting to the start line near Epcot.
My second recommendation would be to stay at one of the
Epcot area Resort hotels. While it won't be easier than any other for getting to the start line, it will be easier post race because you'll be able to cut through Epcot with a park ticket and walk to some resorts. This would include Disney's BoardWalk Inn, Disney's Beach Club Resort, Disney's Yacht Club Resort, or the Walt Disney World Swan or Dolphin Hotel.
To be completely honest, any of the hotels on property at Walt Disney World Resort are convenient for the races. Transportation is provided for all race weekend events, including all races and the runDisney Health & Fitness Expo. I think you may just find you save some time at those specific resorts, but there are great options for every budget.
For childcare during the race, there is a third party service called
Kid's Nite Out that will come to your room and watch your kiddos while you run. I do know they have limited caregivers though and they are very popular during race weekends so I'd book early!
-Lindsey ºOº