Choosing Your Orlando Resort: Top 10 Things to Consider
How to Find the Right Orlando Hotel for You?
There are many important considerations when searching for the right Orlando resort for your trip. Finding the right resort is crucial for any vacation, and with Orlando‘s diverse range of properties, this decision becomes even more significant. The right combination of location, price, and convenience can make all the difference when visiting a new city.
As a major tourist destination, Orlando offers a vast array of lodging options, from tent camping to luxurious 5-star resorts. Here are some of the things to consider when choosing a resort in Orlando, Florida.
1. Staying onsite for special perks
Freebies and seamless park access
Good for: Adventure, Families
If your primary goal in visiting Orlando is to explore the theme parks, consider staying onsite to get special perks. Both Walt Disney World and Universal Studios offer themed accommodations right on their properties, providing free transportation to and from the parks. By staying in a theme park resort, you’re entitled to numerous perks, including extra park hours, free quick-queue passes, and priority dining reservations.
The convenience of being close to the action, combined with the perks and often all-inclusive nature of these resorts, makes them an attractive option for visitors.
Staying onsite for special perks
2. Staying offsite to cut costs
Affordable stays with easy access to Orlando’s attractions
Good for: Budget, Couples, Families
Staying offsite can significantly reduce your accommodation expenses, often by as much as half compared to the cost of onsite theme park resorts. While theme park resorts are priced for their convenience and proximity, a resort just five minutes away but unaffiliated with the parks can offer similar amenities at a fraction of the cost.
However, staying offsite does come with certain considerations. You will likely need to arrange your own daily transportation to the parks, which could add to your overall expenses. If you plan to drive, remember to factor in the daily parking fee at each theme park.
Staying offsite to cut costs
3. Villas for large groups
Comfort and savings in well-equipped villas for group adventures
Good for: Budget, Families, Food
For those planning an extended stay or traveling with a large group, many Disney-owned villas offer a practical and comfortable solution. Many of these villas, such as Disney’s Boardwalk Villas, feature fully equipped living rooms and kitchens, along with separate bedrooms and restrooms.
One of the biggest advantages of staying in these villas is the ability to prepare meals in the full kitchens. This can significantly reduce food expenses, providing a cost-effective option for budget-conscious travelers. Cook your own meals to customize your dining experience and enjoy shared meals in the comfort of your own space.
Villas for large groups
4. International Drive
A prime location for diverse accommodations and attractions
Good for: Food, Nightlife, Shoppers
Choosing to stay at one of the many resorts along International Drive places you in the heart of Orlando’s vibrant tourist center. This bustling area offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly motels to luxurious resorts, all within walking distance of countless attractions. Known as the city’s main tourism hub, International Drive is home to numerous restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. It’s an ideal location for travelers looking to explore everything Orlando has to offer.
The strategic positioning of I-Drive makes it arguably the best area to stay for those wanting to maximize their Orlando experience. Whether you’re visiting for family fun, a romantic getaway, or a solo adventure, staying here guarantees you’ll be close to all the action.
International Drive
5. Transport
Hassle-free exploration with shuttles and trolleys
Good for: Budget, Couples, Families
If you’re not planning to rent a car, opt for a resort that offers convenient transport options, such as complimentary shuttles, or is conveniently located near an I-Ride Trolley bus stop. Many Orlando resorts provide free shuttle services to major theme parks, but be sure to reserve these shuttles well in advance, as they tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
Orlando is also served by the affordable I-Ride Trolley, a green-and-red ferry that travels along International Drive. With a small fare and pickups every 20 minutes, it offers a convenient and budget-friendly way to explore the area. The trolley stops at various points along International Drive, making it simple to reach popular destinations.
Transport
6. Downtown Orlando
Vibrant energy from office hours to after hours
Good for: Couples, Food, Nightlife
If you want to stay near the financial district and local nightlife, choose a resort in Downtown Orlando. During the day, this modern city center buzzes with activity, housing numerous banks and law offices. As evening falls, Downtown transforms into a lively hub with Wall Street at its heart. This area is renowned for its diverse array of bars, clubs, and restaurants that attract locals and visitors alike.
Wall Street and the surrounding streets often close to traffic after 9 pm, creating a pedestrian-friendly environment perfect for exploring the nightlife. Whether you’re looking to unwind with a drink, dance the night away, or savor a delicious meal, Downtown Orlando offers a dynamic mix of options to suit any taste.
Downtown Orlando
7. Thornton Park
Orlando’s hip and arty neighborhood
Good for: Couples, History
Stay in brick-lined Thornton Park to be near the arts village. Various unique hotels and bed & breakfasts give way to art galleries, museums, and hole-in-the-wall restaurants. This area is home to the renowned Orlando Museum of Art and just a 5-minute walk from the iconic Lake Eola.
The arts village stretches along Washington Street and Summerlin Avenue, with oak-shaded bungalows lining the street. For a reclusive vacation away from all the hustle and bustle of the tourist areas, a resort stay in this area would be ideal.
Thornton Park
8. Camping
Disney’s magical outdoor camping experience
Good for: Adventure, Families
For a unique vacation stay, consider Disney’s all-inclusive camping options, ranging from tent and RV setups to fully stocked cabins. Located at Disney’s Fort Wilderness, this camping experience offers a blend of outdoor adventure and comfort, with activities such as horseback riding and kayaking. Its proximity to Orlando’s major theme parks makes it an ideal base for exploration.
It gets quite warm in Orlando during the summertime, and Disney’s cabins ensure a comfortable stay with air-conditioning and two resort-style pools. Book for Fort Wilderness online at least a few weeks in advance to secure your spot.
Camping
9. Orlando with pets
Seamless adventures with your furry friend
Good for: Couples, Families
Planning a trip to Orlando with your pet? It’s important to carefully consider your lodging options, as many resorts have strict no-pet policies. Fortunately, some accommodations cater specifically to travelers with four-legged companions. Walt Disney World offers Best Friends Pet Care, a dedicated facility where your pets can stay comfortably when they’re not under your watch. Fort Wilderness is another option that permits pets, given that all rules are followed.
For those seeking additional accommodations, several Marriott resorts welcome pets, as do a variety of budget-friendly hotels like La Quinta Inn. When booking your trip, make sure to verify each resort’s pet policy to ensure a smooth and enjoyable vacation for both you and your pet.
Orlando with pets
10. Disney Springs
Scenic views and convenient access to Disney
Good for: Families, Shoppers
For an all-encompassing resort stay that’s away from all the commotion but still near most attractions, it’s ideal to stay near the Disney Springs area. This location provides an ideal balance, with surrounding resorts offering a range of amenities, from scenic views to luxurious 5-star spas. The resorts are located near enough to have a great view of Disney’s iconic fireworks every night, but are considered off-site and priced accordingly.
In addition to their appealing settings and amenities, many of these resorts provide complimentary shuttles to Disney theme parks and Disney Springs, ensuring convenient access to entertainment and shopping.
Disney Springs
This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.