Southwest Orlando Where To Stay In Orlando For First Time
Southwest is one of the best places to stay in Orlando. Thats because its the home of Universal Orlando. This huge theme park complex includes theme parks like Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure as well as the Volcano Bay water park.
To top things off, theres Universal CityWalk with its multitude of stores, restaurants, bars and entertainment options.
Universal is definitely the big attraction here. Its theme parks have incredibly popular features like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, the Jurassic World VelociCoaster and Despicable Me Minion Mayhem.
Plenty of attractions appeal to little ones too. The Caro-Seuss-el, the Pteranodon Flyers and The Cat in the Hat ride are particular favorites with kids. Plus, these parks make Orlando feel like Hollywood with plenty of movie-inspired shows and attractions.
Universal clearly is making a bid to compete with the sprawling Disney World complex. To do so, they have opened several on-site hotels.
Some are quite affordably priced, but it is possible to find resorts that feature all sorts of upscale amenities with prices to match.
If your family is planning to spend a great deal of your Orlando vacation at Universal, then this is the best possible place to stay.
When you choose a Universal hotel, youll have easy, convenient access to all of the attractions in the various parks. Plus, with so many stores and restaurants on site, theres no need to travel elsewhere.
Where To Stay In Orlando: Mid
In the Lake Buena Vista Resort Area and just one mile from Disney, the Sonesta ES Suites Lake Buena Vista is a smaller, less hectic resort-style property that features two-bedroom/two-bathroom suites with kitchenettes. Breakfast, parking, and the shuttle to Disney parks are free, and self-serve laundry is available. If you need a break from the theme parks, there are nice courtyards and shady sitting areas, as well as an arcade for kids and a designated children’s pool.
Conveniently located between the Disney Parks and Sea World, has family suites with kitchenettes or individual villas with free parking and access to self-serve laundry, making this an excellent choice for those traveling with a large family.
The pool complex includes a water park, with fun features like a pirate ship with slides and water cannons and a private kiddie pool that is great for families with toddlers. The hotel offers full resort-style recreation, including a basketball court, volleyball court, a large coin-operated game room, and even an outdoor fire pit.
Located abouthalfway between Disney and SeaWorld,Hilton Grand Vacations at Tuscany Village is in a convenient location for theme parks in both directions. Kids stay free at this 34-acre resort, and there is a choice between studio-style apartments or suites, all equipped with kitchenettes and private balconies, as well as in-room washers and dryers, making this a great choice for families and those enjoying longer stays.
Lake Buena Vista Resort Village
Category: ModerateWalt Disney World Good Neighbor Hotel: Yes
What I like: Kids love the pirate-themed pool at this all-suite resort with up to four bedrooms.
Lake Buena Vista Resort Village is very popular with large families and for multigenerational travel because the fully-furnished resort condos range from one to four bedrooms.
Take advantage of having a kitchen with the resorts Publix grocery delivery service. Guests enjoy free shuttle service to Walt Disney World, Universal, and SeaWorld theme parks, included with the resort fee.
Families love the onside Pizza Hut Express in addition to sit-down dining options and an onsite convenience store.
Families spend tons of time at the zero-entry Pirate plunge pool with a water slide through the ship and canons, in addition to activities offered by Kids Club. Rest assured one may decompress at the Relaxation pool or in the full-service spa.
Reservations: Book direct or check prices on top sites.
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Best Places To Stay In Orlando Fl
With its popularity and wide sprawl, choosing where to stay in Orlando can be challenging for travelers. The city is spread out over many different districts & neighborhoods, giving you several options for your visit.
For first-time visitors, Downtown Orlando and International Drive are the best areas to stay. Theyre 30 minutes or less to all the top tourist attractions in Orlando and close to the theme park district. Plenty of restaurants are also within walking distance from hotels in these areas.
Lake Buena Vista is also an excellent choice if your vacation plans mostly revolve around visiting the Disney parks. Hotels in Florida Center give you quick access to the Universal theme parks.
Staying in Winter Park, on the other hand, allows you to experience more of a local part of Orlando. North of Downtown, the suburb offers great budget lodgings options and is still within a short drive of the city center.
The best areas to stay in Orlando are:
Windsor At Westside Resort 2100 Tripoli Ct Kissimmee Fl
Windsor at Westside Resort is one of the newer gated resort communities in Kissimmee, and of course very near the theme parks of Disney World, SeaWorld Orlando, Universal Studios Orlando, and other attractions such as Orlando360 and the Orlando Eye.
The resort offers vacation rental single-family homes with from 6- to 9-bedrooms and first-class furnishings, and 4- to 5-bedroom townhomes complete with splash pools.
Relax at the Tiki Bar, while kids enjoy the Lazy River, play games in the video arcade, or swim in the resort-style pool. Adults will enjoy the fitness center and also the Tiki Bar!
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Things To See And Do In Celebration
Browse the stalls and grab a bite at the Celebration Farmers Market.
Dine on delicious Mexican fare at Avocado Mexican Grill.
Eat classic American dishes at Holler & Dash.
Enjoy a sweet treat at Kilwins.
Explore downtown Celebration.
Get your heart pumping on the Old Town Sling Shot.
Kickstart your day with a delicious breakfast at iconic IHOP.
Rent bikes and explore the neighbourhood on two wheels.
Savour a quick bite at Five Guys burgers.
Spend a day playing games and riding exciting rollercoasters at Fun Sports America Theme Parks.
Take a stroll through Celebration Lakeside Park.
Wander along the Disney Boardwalk.
The Retreat At Champions Gate Resort 1413 Thunderbird Rd Davenport
Champions Gate is a luxury home community with two golf courses designed by Greg Norman. The Retreat at Champions Gate features vacation rental homes, many with pools, most with 6-7 bedrooms and baths, and features themed rooms, especially for little children. Its located in Davenport, just about a 20-minute drive away from the theme parks of Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld.
Within the Retreat, theres a resort-style swimming pool, a fitness center, clay tennis courts, volleyball courts, a game room, and a movie theater. Theres also a public 18-hole golf course here, as well as a driving range and a putting green.
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Why Choose Rosen Inn
The Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando brings you style and comfort at a budget-friendly price without sacrificing amenities or service. We offer free gated parking for each guests first two cars, and youll never pay a resort fee with us. Guestrooms include many homelike amenities and comforts such as pillowtop beds, flat panel HDTVs with access to Disney and premium movie channels, refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, private bathroom, and ample space. When looking for affordability and convenience to the Orange County Convention Center, look no further than the Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando.
Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlandos prime location has so much within quick access. World-class shopping, entertainment, and dining are a short walk away. Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld®, and Walt Disney World® are nearby. Guests at our Universal Partner Hotel enjoy free shuttle service to Universal Orlando Resort.
As a Universal Partner Hotel guest youre just minutes away from all the awesome of Universal Orlando Resorts three amazing theme parks: Universal Studios Florida, Universals Islands of Adventure, and Universals Volcano Bay water theme park. And dont miss the best in dining, live entertainment, and more at Universal CityWalk.
Best Resorts In Orlando That Are Not Disney
With all the perks of staying in on Disney property, do you even need to know about the best non-Disney Resorts in Orlando? I think so.
I love Disney resorts, but sometimes I like to enjoy some downtime from the magic. Plus, for some of you, staying off-Disney might even be more convenient and worthwhile.
This is particularly true if you want to travel all of Orlando or are visiting during peak season when all on-site resorts are already full or expensive.
So, heres a list of the best resorts in Orlando that are not Disney.
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Best Hotel In Celebration: Bohemian Hotel Celebration Autograph Collection
The Bohemian is a modern and stylish four-star hotel. It boasts incredible views, superb dining options and is ideally located for shopping. It has a number of wellness amenities, including a sauna, a Jacuzzi and an outdoor pool. Enjoy a relaxing and restful say in Celebration at the Bohemian Hotel.
Wyndham Disney Springs Resort Area
Category: Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Resort Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista Resort Walt Disney World Good Neighbor Hotel: Yes
What I like: This is a nice way to book a value hotel because the amenities are shared between the two Wyndhams. You can also walk to Disney Springs and book character breakfast onsite.
Wyndham also has a two-resort complex with their Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Resort and Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista in the Disney Springs Resort Area.
Experience magic and fantasy in a breathtaking lake house setting at Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Resort, or choose affordable rooms at Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista Resort.
Both share access to the Oasis Aquatic Pool Playground with a splash pad and zero-entry pool area in addition to a large outdoor swimming pool and hot tub. Guests also enjoy Disney character breakfasts.
The kids will have a blast at the game-packed arcade, and you can slip away for a workout at the 24/7 fitness center. The resort runs shuttle services every 30 minutes to all four Disney parks.
Reservations: Book the Wyndham Rewards member rate at a discount.
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Do I Need A Rental Car In Orlando
A rental car is highly recommended in Orlando for most visitors. Ride-sharing apps can be expensive if you are looking to go to destinations all around Orlando. Most locations do not offer free parking, which should be factored into your budget. You can skip the rental car if you are staying at a hotel with theme park transportation .
Best Airbnb In Southwest Orlando: Modern Private Apartment
Your typical Florida apartment awaits you smack dab in the middle of where all the shopping goes down. Thats right. This home is right off of I-drive, where you can get the best deals in the country. Besides that, this home is brand new and modernly furnished from the kitchen to the bedroom. And whats a Florida apartment without a balcony to catch the view of one the best theme parks around Universal Studios.
From what we know about Orlando, you dont come here unless youre ready to jump on some roller coasters, and the location of this living space is easily accessible to all of them. Walking, bus, or car its a short distance and with plenty of restaurants to pick and choose from at your fingertips. When youre ready to settle in for the night, grab the remote get comfy on the heavenly cloud-like bed and fall asleep to something on Netflix or Hulu.
If you want to stay somewhere near to all the best attractions in Orlando but still be in a quiet location, consider staying in a vacation rental in Kissimmee just South of Orlando.
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Disneys Art Of Animation Resort
Designed with kids in mind, Disneys Art of Animation Resort feels like youre in a Disney movie. Surrounded by the magic of Disney World, guests here will find an array of themes that immerse visitors into classics like The Little Mermaid, Finding Nemo and The Lion King. Spacious Family Suites suit a family of 6, where decor highlights some of your favourite Disney films.
Kids are in for a real treat, as they can plunge into the largest resort pool in Disney World or catch a classic Disney movie under the stars in the resorts grassy area. The Landscape of Flavors restaurant serves guests fresh, made-to-order international and American cuisine, while those who prefer to stay in can enjoy a delicious pizza conveniently delivered to their door.
Star Rating: 3*
One Of The Best Places To Stay In Orlando
For the vacation of a lifetime, consider a stay in a private rental luxury villa. Our favorite is Solteraa Resort. Why settle for a room when you can have an entire luxury home and all the amenities of a five-star resort.
Located just minutes from the top theme parks of Orlando and shopping, dining, and other attractions, Solterra Resort offers spacious and beautifully appointed private homes located waiting this exclusive gated community.
Our candidates for the best places to stay in Orlando are clearly one of these luxury rental villas. Whether you are traveling with the family, extended family, or friends, they have the perfect home for you. The homes range from 6 bedrooms to 14 bedrooms, with luxury amenities and furnishings, including a full kitchen, plenty of living space, bathrooms, and more. Check out the character-themed bedrooms for the kids and the game room and private theater. And just outside the door is your private pool.
For groups traveling for that special occasion, a luxury villa is a perfect choice. The resort amenities are enough to keep you from wanting to leave for the parks. They include a resort pool with a water slide, a children’s playground, a lazy river, and lots more.
Privacy, luxury, convenience, and fun can all be yours at Solterra Resort.
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Final Thoughts On Where To Stay In Orlando
Orlando is a city packed with fun and exciting. Home to everything from magical theme parks and exciting attractions, to spectacular museums and delicious restaurants no matter your interests or your budget, theres something for everyone in Orlando.
In this guide, weve covered the best areas to stay in Orlando. While there arent many hostels in the city, we did our best to include affordable hotels and inexpensive motels.
If youre still not sure where to stay in Orlando, heres a quick recap.
AAE Clarion Universal is our recommendation for budget accommodations in Orlando. Located near the Dr Phillips neighbourhood, this hotel is close to top restaurants, attractions and interesting activities.
Another great option is Aloft Orlando Downtown with its modern rooms, stunning outdoor pool and convenient downtown location.
Have we missed anything? Let us know in the comments below.
And dont forget to take out Travel Insurance for your trip! I have been using World Nomads for some time now and made a few claims over the years. Theyre easy to use, professional and relatively affordable. They may also let you buy or extend a policy once youve started your trip and are already abroad which is super handy.
Getting an estimate from World Nomads is simple just click the button or image below, fill out the necessary info, and youre on your way!
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Where To Stay In Orlando For Families
Most hotels in the Orlando area focus on family accommodations, but some stand out for their commitment to making a family vacation extra special and worry-free.
Guests at the Hampton Inn Orlando Lake Buena Vista are less than five minutes by car from Walt Disney World or have the option to park at the hotel for free and take the complimentary shuttle to the park. Family rooms include a microwave and mini fridge, as well as breakfast, and there is a small hotel shop with snacks, candy, and supplies, including detergent for the laundry room.
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Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek
Category: DeluxeOfficial Walt Disney World Hotel: Yes
What I like: You get access to most Waldorf Astoria amenities at a lower price point. Also, Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creeks pool has been voted one of the best in the nation.
Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek is one of the best family hotels in Orlando because of its 3-acre private waterpark with lazy river, water slide, and poolside cabanas.
Between the resort and its adjacent sister property, Waldorf Astoria Orlando, guests can dine at twelve elegant restaurants from signature dining to small bites and late-night bar snacks.
Guests also enjoy the WA Kids Club a supervised facility at Waldorf Astoria for ages 5 12, the Waldorf Astoria spa, and the Waldorf Astoria golf course.
Shuttles offer transport to all four Disney parks and Disney Springs, and some rooms offer views of Magic Kingdoms fireworks show.
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Tip: Use The Pool To Your Advantage
Swimming pools have a sorcery over kids like nothing weve ever seen. Even the most tired, cranky, bent-out-of-shape kids will suddenly become downright giddy if you put them in an awesome swimming pool. Staying on-property at a Disney resort is great for this reason. It allows you to skip the hot afternoon sun and quickly get back to the hotel for a swim, something cold to drink, and some relaxation. Enjoy something good to eat, and then head back out in the evening when its cooler, feeling refreshed and ready for some more Disney magic. Trust us this works!
Their other pool, the Samawati Springs Pool is near the Animal Kingdom Villas, and is just a short walk away. Uwanja Camp is a splash pad and water playground that younger children will love. Both offer plenty of lounge chairs, towels, and places to order refreshments.
Other activities around the resort include a kids club , a fire for roasting marshmallows, playground, arcade, or you can catch a movie in the evening out by the pool if you want a night in. During a rainy day during our visit, our kids made cookies and crafts inside and had a great time.
Disneys Animal Kingdom Lodge also features a spa, free Wi-Fi internet, complimentary parking, complimentary Disney Magical Express bus service to and from the airport, and free delivery of all your goodies purchased in the park, which is awesome!
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