When planning a trip to Orlando, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to stay. With so many theme parks, attractions, and activities to explore, being in the right location can make all the difference in your vacation experience. From convenience and affordability to luxury and relaxation, the right accommodations can elevate your trip from good to great. In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to stay near Orlando, highlighting the top neighborhoods, hotels, and resorts that offer the perfect blend of comfort, amenities, and accessibility.
Overview of the Best Places to Stay Near Orlando
Orlando is a sprawling city with numerous neighborhoods and areas to choose from, each with its own unique character and advantages. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly resort, a romantic getaway, or a budget-friendly option, there’s a perfect place to stay near Orlando that fits your needs and preferences. From the iconic Disney World to Universal Studios, SeaWorld, and beyond, we’ll delve into the best areas to stay, including:
Disney Springs and Lake Buena Vista
Experience the magic of Disney without breaking the bank, with a range of hotels and resorts that offer easy access to the theme parks and Disney Springs.
International Drive and Universal City
Stay in the heart of the action, with plenty of options for families, couples, and solo travelers looking to be close to Universal Studios, SeaWorld, and other top attractions.
Downtown Orlando and Winter Park
Discover the charm of Orlando’s urban core, with boutique hotels, trendy restaurants, and a vibrant cultural scene, all within easy reach of the theme parks.
Kissimmee and Celebration
Escape to the suburbs, where you’ll find a more laid-back atmosphere, plenty of outdoor activities, and a range of accommodations to suit every budget.
In the following sections, we’ll dive deeper into each of these areas, highlighting the top hotels, resorts, and neighborhoods, as well as providing insider tips and recommendations to help you make the most of your Orlando vacation.
Best Places to Stay Near Orlando
Orlando, Florida, is a popular tourist destination known for its theme parks, outdoor recreation, and family-friendly atmosphere. When planning a trip to Orlando, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to stay. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best place to stay near Orlando. In this article, we’ll explore the top areas to stay near Orlando, including their proximity to theme parks, amenities, and things to do.
Disney Springs Area
The Disney Springs area is a popular choice for families and couples alike. This area offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hotels to luxury resorts. One of the main advantages of staying in the Disney Springs area is its proximity to Walt Disney World. You’ll be just a short drive or bus ride away from the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom.
Some of the top hotels in the Disney Springs area include: (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Rome First Time)
- Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
- Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
- Hyatt Regency Orlando
- B Resort & Spa
In addition to its convenient location, the Disney Springs area offers a range of amenities, including:
- Disney Springs shopping and dining district
- Build-A-Bear Workshop
- The VOID virtual reality experience
- Amphitheater and live music venues
Lake Buena Vista Area
The Lake Buena Vista area is another popular choice for families and couples. This area is located just a few miles from Walt Disney World and offers a range of accommodations, including budget-friendly hotels and luxury resorts.
Some of the top hotels in the Lake Buena Vista area include:
- Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
- Disney’s Beach Club Resort
- The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes
- JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes
In addition to its convenient location, the Lake Buena Vista area offers a range of amenities, including:
- Disney’s BoardWalk entertainment district
- Water sports and activities on Lake Buena Vista
- Shopping and dining at Disney Springs
- Golfing at the nearby Grande Lakes Golf Course
International Drive Area
The International Drive area is a popular choice for families and couples looking for a more affordable option. This area is located just a few miles from Universal Orlando Resort and offers a range of accommodations, including budget-friendly hotels and vacation rentals.
Some of the top hotels in the International Drive area include:
- Rosen Shingle Creek Resort
- The Avanti International Resort
- Best Western Lake Buena Vista – Disney Springs Area
- Hyatt Place Orlando/Lake Buena Vista
In addition to its affordable prices, the International Drive area offers a range of amenities, including:
- Universal CityWalk entertainment district
- Shopping and dining at the Orlando International Premium Outlets
- Water sports and activities on Lake Bryan
- Golfing at the nearby Shingle Creek Golf Course
Kissimmee Area
The Kissimmee area is a popular choice for families and couples looking for a more laid-back atmosphere. This area is located just a few miles from Walt Disney World and offers a range of accommodations, including budget-friendly hotels and vacation rentals.
Some of the top hotels in the Kissimmee area include: (See Also: Galway Best Places To Stay)
- Gaylord Palms Resort
- Reunion Resort
- Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate
- Hyatt Regency Orlando at ChampionsGate
In addition to its laid-back atmosphere, the Kissimmee area offers a range of amenities, including:
- Golfing at the nearby ChampionsGate Golf Course
- Water sports and activities on Lake Tohopekaliga
- Shopping and dining at the Old Town Kissimmee
- Outdoor recreation at the nearby Shingle Creek Regional Park
Winter Park Area
The Winter Park area is a popular choice for couples and families looking for a more upscale atmosphere. This area is located just a few miles from downtown Orlando and offers a range of accommodations, including luxury hotels and vacation rentals.
Some of the top hotels in the Winter Park area include:
- The Alfond Inn at Rollins
- The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art
- The Winter Park Marriott
- The Park Plaza Hotel
In addition to its upscale atmosphere, the Winter Park area offers a range of amenities, including:
- Shopping and dining on Park Avenue
- Outdoor recreation at the nearby Winter Park Chain of Lakes
- Cultural attractions at the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art
- Golfing at the nearby Winter Park Golf Course
Universal Orlando Resort Area
The Universal Orlando Resort area is a popular choice for families and couples looking for a theme park-focused vacation. This area is located just a few miles from Universal Studios Florida and offers a range of accommodations, including on-site hotels and vacation rentals.
Some of the top hotels in the Universal Orlando Resort area include:
- Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
- Universal’s Hard Rock Hotel
- Loews Royal Pacific Resort
- Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort
In addition to its convenient location, the Universal Orlando Resort area offers a range of amenities, including:
- Universal CityWalk entertainment district
- Early Park Admission to Universal Studios Florida
- Volcano Bay water park
- Golfing at the nearby Universal’s Golf Course
Recap of the Best Places to Stay Near Orlando
In conclusion, the best place to stay near Orlando depends on your individual needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly atmosphere, a luxurious getaway, or an affordable option, there’s a place to stay near Orlando that’s right for you.
Remember to consider factors such as proximity to theme parks, amenities, and things to do when choosing the best place to stay near Orlando. With so many options available, you’re sure to find the perfect place to stay for your next Orlando vacation. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Kruger National Park)
| Area | Proximity to Theme Parks | Amenities | Things to Do |
|---|---|---|---|
| Disney Springs Area | Walking distance to Walt Disney World | Disney Springs shopping and dining district, Build-A-Bear Workshop, The VOID virtual reality experience | Walt Disney World, Disney’s BoardWalk entertainment district |
| Lake Buena Vista Area | Short drive to Walt Disney World | Disney’s BoardWalk entertainment district, water sports and activities on Lake Buena Vista | Walt Disney World, Disney’s BoardWalk entertainment district |
| International Drive Area | Short drive to Universal Orlando Resort | Universal CityWalk entertainment district, shopping and dining at the Orlando International Premium Outlets | Universal Orlando Resort, Universal CityWalk entertainment district |
| Kissimmee Area | Short drive to Walt Disney World | Golfing at the nearby ChampionsGate Golf Course, water sports and activities on Lake Tohopekaliga | Walt Disney World, outdoor recreation at the nearby Shingle Creek Regional Park |
| Winter Park Area | Short drive to downtown Orlando | Shopping and dining on Park Avenue, outdoor recreation at the nearby Winter Park Chain of Lakes | downtown Orlando, cultural attractions at the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art |
| Universal Orlando Resort Area | On-site at Universal Orlando Resort | Universal CityWalk entertainment district, Early Park Admission to Universal Studios Florida | Universal Orlando Resort, Universal CityWalk entertainment district |
By considering these factors and choosing the best place to stay near Orlando, you’ll be well on your way to planning a memorable and enjoyable vacation.
Frequently Asked Questions: Best Places to Stay Near Orlando
What are the most popular areas to stay near Orlando?
Some of the most popular areas to stay near Orlando include Lake Buena Vista, Kissimmee, and Davenport. These areas offer a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hotels to luxury resorts, and are close to major theme parks like Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando.
Is it better to stay on-site or off-site at Walt Disney World?
Staying on-site at Walt Disney World can offer perks like Extra Magic Hours, transportation to parks, and immersive theming, but it can be more expensive. Off-site options, on the other hand, may offer more affordable rates and a wider range of amenities, but may require more planning and transportation. Ultimately, the decision depends on your budget, priorities, and preferences.
What are some budget-friendly options for accommodations near Orlando?
Consider staying in nearby cities like Kissimmee or Davenport, which offer more affordable options like vacation rentals, motels, and budget hotels. You can also look into camping or glamping options, or opt for a hostel or budget-friendly resort. Additionally, look for deals, discounts, and package offers that can help you save money.
How far is Universal Orlando from Walt Disney World?
Universal Orlando Resort is approximately 10-15 miles from Walt Disney World, depending on the specific location within the Disney property. The drive typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. There are also shuttle services and public transportation options available between the two resorts.
Are there any pet-friendly accommodations near Orlando?
Yes, many hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals near Orlando are pet-friendly. However, be sure to check the pet policy and fees before booking, as they can vary widely. Some popular pet-friendly options include the Hyatt Regency Orlando, the Ritz-Carlton Orlando, and various vacation rental properties in the area.
