WHERE TO STAY IN ORLANDO

Choosing the right accommodation is crucial to enhancing your Orlando experience. In this chapter, we’ll explore various regions and neighborhoods in and around Orlando, each offering a unique atmosphere and proximity to different attractions.

International Drive (I-Drive)

Description:

International Drive, commonly known as I-Drive, is a bustling area filled with hotels, resorts, restaurants, and entertainment options. It stretches approximately 11 miles and is a hub for tourists seeking convenience and accessibility.

Pros:

Proximity to Attractions: I-Drive is close to major attractions like Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando, and the Orlando International Premium Outlets.
Diverse Dining Options: A wide range of dining options, from casual to upscale, can be found along I-Drive.

Cons:

Traffic: The area can experience heavy traffic, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Limited Walkability: While certain sections are walkable, I-Drive is predominantly car-centric.

The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes

Overview: Experience unparalleled luxury at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes. This resort offers lavish accommodations, a renowned spa, and golf courses amidst lush surroundings.
Average Cost: $500 – $800 per night
Address: 4012 Central Florida Parkway, Orlando, FL 32837
Website: The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes
Highlights: Award-winning dining, eco tours, Greg Norman-designed golf course.

Hyatt Regency Orlando

Overview: Situated in the heart of I-Drive, Hyatt Regency Orlando provides modern comforts and convenience. Enjoy spacious rooms, multiple dining options, and a tropical pool area.
Average Cost: $150 – $250 per night
Address: 9801 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819
Website: Hyatt Regency Orlando
Highlights: Grotto-style swimming pool, upscale dining, proximity to ICON Park.

Avanti Palms Resort and Conference Center

Overview: Avanti Palms Resort offers budget-friendly accommodations with a tropical flair. Enjoy a central location, modern amenities, and a lively pool area.
Average Cost: $80 – $120 per night
Address: 6515 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819
Website: Avanti Palms Resort
Highlights: Family-friendly, outdoor lounging areas, close to shopping.

Lake Buena Vista

Description:

Lake Buena Vista is located near Walt Disney World Resort and offers a mix of hotels and vacation rentals. It’s an excellent choice for those primarily visiting Disney parks.

Pros:

Proximity to Disney: Lake Buena Vista is close to Walt Disney World Resort, providing easy access to Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom.
Resort Atmosphere: Many accommodations in this area offer a resort-like experience with themed amenities.

Cons:

Limited Non-Disney Activities: While close to Disney, there may be fewer options for non-Disney entertainment compared to other areas.

Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort

Overview: A beacon of luxury, Four Seasons Resort Orlando offers a tranquil escape near Disney. Indulge in impeccable service, lavish accommodations, and rooftop views.
Average Cost: $600 – $900 per night
Address: 10100 Dream Tree Boulevard, Golden Oak, FL 32836
Website: Four Seasons Resort Orlando
Highlights: Golf course, rooftop steakhouse, Explorer Island for families.

Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista

Overview: With a prime location, Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista provides comfortable rooms and family-friendly amenities. Enjoy Disney Character Breakfasts and proximity to Disney Springs.
Average Cost: $120 – $200 per night
Address: 1751 Hotel Plaza Boulevard, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
Website: Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista
Highlights: Disney Character Breakfasts, Disney Extra Magic Hours, walking distance to Disney Springs.

Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista Disney Springs Resort Area

Overview: Offering affordability and convenience, Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista is a Disney Springs Resort Area hotel with budget-friendly rooms and family-friendly features.
Average Cost: $80 – $150 per night
Address: 1850B Hotel Plaza Boulevard, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
Website: Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista
Highlights: Shuttle to Disney parks, Disney Character Dining.

Downtown Orlando

Description:

Downtown Orlando is the city’s core, offering a mix of business, entertainment, and cultural experiences. It’s a great choice for those interested in urban exploration.

Pros:

Cultural Attractions: Downtown Orlando is home to theaters, museums, and galleries, providing a cultural experience.
Diverse Dining and Nightlife: Enjoy a wide range of dining options and vibrant nightlife in the downtown area.

Cons:

Distance to Theme Parks: Downtown Orlando is farther from major theme parks, requiring transportation for park visits.
Limited Theme Park Atmosphere: If you prefer a theme park-centric atmosphere, other regions may be more suitable.

Grand Bohemian Hotel Orlando, Autograph Collection

Overview: Embrace artistic elegance at the Grand Bohemian Hotel. This downtown gem boasts luxurious rooms, an art gallery, and a rooftop pool with skyline views.
Average Cost: $300 – $500 per night
Address: 325 South Orange Avenue, Orlando, FL 32801
Website: Grand Bohemian Hotel Orlando
Highlights: Art gallery, rooftop pool, AAA Four Diamond Award.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Orlando Downtown

Overview: Located in the heart of downtown, Embassy Suites offers spacious suites and complimentary made-to-order breakfast. Enjoy proximity to cultural attractions and nightlife.
Average Cost: $150 – $250 per night
Address: 191 East Pine Street, Orlando, FL 32801
Website: Embassy Suites Orlando Downtown
Highlights: Complimentary evening reception, rooftop pool, near Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.

Courtyard Orlando Downtown

Overview: Courtyard Orlando Downtown offers budget-friendly comfort with modern amenities. Enjoy a central location, a fitness center, and easy access to downtown attractions.
Average Cost: $100 – $150 per night
Address: 730 North Magnolia Avenue, Orlando, FL 32803
Website: Courtyard Orlando Downtown
Highlights: Bistro dining, outdoor pool, close to Lake Eola Park.

Kissimmee

Description:

Located south of Orlando, Kissimmee is a family-friendly destination with a mix of vacation homes, resorts, and hotels. It offers a quieter atmosphere while remaining close to major attractions.

Pros:

Affordable Accommodations: Kissimmee often provides more budget-friendly accommodation options compared to on-site resort areas.
Close to Attractions: Kissimmee is within proximity to Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, and other attractions.

Cons:

Less Urban Vibe: If you prefer an urban setting with bustling streets, Kissimmee may not offer the same vibe as downtown areas.

Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center

Overview: Experience a lavish escape at Gaylord Palms, offering themed rooms, extensive atriums, and on-site entertainment. It’s a destination in itself near the theme parks.
Average Cost: $250 – $400 per night
Address: 6000 West Osceola Parkway, Kissimmee, FL 34746
Website: Gaylord Palms Resort
Highlights: Atriums with wildlife, on-site water park, live shows.

Celebration Suites at Old Town

Overview: Celebration Suites offers spacious suites and a location near Old Town attractions. Ideal for families, it provides kitchen facilities and a variety of amenities.
Average Cost: $80 – $120 per night
Address: 5820 West Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway, Kissimmee, FL 34746
Website: Celebration Suites
Highlights: Full kitchens, outdoor pools, close to Old Town.

Red Lion Hotel Orlando Lake Buena Vista South

Overview: A budget-friendly option, Red Lion Hotel provides comfortable accommodations with convenient access to major attractions and a tropical pool area.
Average Cost: $60 – $100 per night
Address: 5150 West Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway, Kissimmee, FL 34746
Website: Red Lion Hotel Orlando Lake Buena Vista South
Highlights: Tropical pool area, game room, shuttle to theme parks.

Winter Park

Description:

Winter Park, located northeast of downtown Orlando, is known for its charming atmosphere, upscale shops, and historic architecture. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a more refined experience.

Pros:

Scenic Beauty: Winter Park is known for its picturesque lakes and parks, providing a serene backdrop.
Upscale Shopping: Enjoy upscale shopping and dining in the area’s trendy boutiques and restaurants.

Cons:

Distance to Theme Parks: Winter Park is farther from major theme parks, making it less convenient for those focused on theme park visits.
Limited Theme Park Atmosphere: If you desire a theme park-centric atmosphere, other regions may be more suitable.

The Alfond Inn

Overview: The Alfond Inn is a boutique luxury hotel with a focus on art and philanthropy. Enjoy elegant rooms, a beautiful courtyard, and access to Rollins College’s art collection.
Average Cost: $300 – $500 per night
Address: 300 East New England Avenue, Winter Park, FL 32789
Website: The Alfond Inn
Highlights: Art collection, Hamilton’s Kitchen restaurant, courtyard with a pool.

Park Plaza Hotel

Overview: Experience historic charm at Park Plaza Hotel, a boutique hotel in the heart of Winter Park. Enjoy individually decorated rooms and proximity to shops and dining.
Average Cost: $150 – $250 per night
Address: 307 Park Avenue South, Winter Park, FL 32789
Website: Park Plaza Hotel
Highlights: Historic ambiance, rooftop terrace, walkable to Park Avenue.

The Thurston House

Overview: The Thurston House offers budget-friendly bed and breakfast accommodations in a charming Victorian setting. Enjoy personalized service and a peaceful atmosphere.
Average Cost: $100 – $150 per night
Address: 851 Lake Avenue, Maitland, FL 32751
Website: The Thurston House
Highlights: Victorian charm, personalized service, close to cultural attractions.

Altamonte Springs

Description:

Located north of downtown Orlando, Altamonte Springs is a suburban area with a mix of residential and commercial spaces. It provides a quieter escape from the city center.

Pros:

Peaceful Atmosphere: Altamonte Springs offers a peaceful setting, ideal for those seeking a retreat from busier areas.
Shopping and Dining: The area features shopping centers and dining options for a comfortable stay.

Cons:

Distance to Theme Parks: Similar to Winter Park, Altamonte Springs is farther from major theme parks, requiring transportation for park visits.
Limited Theme Park Atmosphere: If a theme park atmosphere is a priority, other regions may be more suitable.

Wekiva Island Cottage

Overview: Experience luxury in a unique setting at Wekiva Island Cottage. Nestled by the Wekiva River, these cottages offer a tranquil escape with modern amenities.
Average Cost: $200 – $300 per night
Address: 1014 Miami Springs Drive, Longwood, FL 32779
Website: Wekiva Island Cottage
Highlights: Riverside setting, outdoor activities, close to Wekiwa Springs State Park.

Hilton Orlando/Altamonte Springs

Overview: Hilton Altamonte Springs provides comfortable accommodations with modern amenities. Enjoy a central location, a pool area, and proximity to shopping and dining.
Average Cost: $120 – $200 per night
Address: 350 Northlake Boulevard, Altamonte Springs, FL 32701
Website: Hilton Altamonte Springs
Highlights: Outdoor pool, on-site restaurant, close to Cranes Roost Park.

Ramada by Wyndham Altamonte Springs

Overview: Ramada Altamonte Springs offers budget-friendly rooms with essential amenities. Conveniently located, it provides easy access to attractions and dining options.
Average Cost: $80 – $120 per night
Address: 150 Douglas Avenue, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714
Website: Ramada Altamonte Springs
Highlights: Outdoor pool, complimentary breakfast, near Altamonte Mall.

Tips for Choosing Accommodations

Theme Park Proximity: Choose an area based on the attractions you plan to visit. If focusing on a specific theme park, staying nearby can save travel time.
Budget Considerations: Consider your budget and explore accommodations that offer the best value for your preferences.
Transportation: If you won’t have a car, consider areas with good public transportation or those with shuttle services to theme parks.
Type of Experience: Decide whether you prefer a resort-like atmosphere, an urban setting, or a quieter suburban escape.