Stays in Orlando
Orlando, Florida, is a major hub for theme parks and family entertainment. Beyond the famous attractions, the city offers diverse dining, shopping, and outdoor activities. It's a destination known for its year-round warm weather and extensive accommodation options, catering to all types of travelers.
Orlando, Florida, is synonymous with world-class theme parks, drawing millions of visitors annually. However, this vibrant city offers more than just roller coasters and character meet-and-greets. Travelers will find a wide array of dining experiences, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, alongside extensive shopping opportunities at outlets and malls. The city's warm climate allows for year-round enjoyment of outdoor activities, including golf, airboat tours, and exploring natural springs. Accommodation ranges from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious resorts, many featuring expansive pool areas and family-friendly amenities, often located conveniently near major interstates like I-4 for easy access to attractions and Orlando International Airport (MCO).
Orlando in numbers

Sunshine Oasis - Orlando Lakefront Luxury
Orlando
31 reviews
Lakefront luxury with a private beach and spa in Orlando
Check availabilityWhy guests love itI would choose Sunshine Oasis for a family that wants lakefront space in Orlando. Guests rate it 9.5 across 31 reviews, an excellent score. The apartments sit on a lake with a private beach area, a swimming pool with a view, a sun terrace and a spa and wellness center. A restaurant, a bar and a fitness center are on site, Disney Springs is within easy reach, and Orlando International Airport is 25 km away.

Lakeview Condo Hotel near Disney
Orlando
36 reviews
Spacious aparthotel units with lake views, a pool, and spa facilities
Check availabilityWhy guests love itI would book this Lakeview condo hotel for a family that wants space in Orlando. Guests rate it 9.5 across 36 reviews, an excellent score. Each unit has one bedroom, two bathrooms, a full kitchen, a living room and a balcony or terrace, and the property sits by a lake. A pool with a view, a hot tub, a sauna and spa facilities are on site, along with a restaurant, a bar and a coffee shop. Parking and WiFi are free.

Disney Accessibility Star Wars Vacation Apartment Near Parks
Orlando
25 reviews
Ground-floor apartment with pool, hot spring bath, and full kitchen
Check availabilityWhy guests love itDisney Accessibility Star Wars Vacation Apartment sits on the ground floor, a real help with strollers, tired children or reduced mobility. The one-bedroom layout adds a sofa bed in the living room, and the kitchen with refrigerator, microwave and dishwasher makes park-day breakfasts and packed snacks easy. A year-round outdoor pool and a hot spring bath fill rest days, and Disney Springs is about 4.3 km away. I would book it for a theme park trip with young kids.

Magical Adventure Condo w Waterpark near Disney No Resort Fees
Orlando
80 reviews
Spacious aparthotel with waterpark access near Disney, no resort fees
Check availabilityWhy guests love itFor a family heading to the parks, I would book this condo for its space: three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a separate living room, so nobody shares a bed with a sibling. The year-round outdoor pool, the hot tub and a children's playground fill the hours between park days. Animal Kingdom is 7 km away and Magic Kingdom 12 km, so a car makes sense. A 9.5 score across 80 reviews is reassuring.

The Point Hotel Apartment 603 Near to Universal
Orlando
15 reviews
Family apartments with a pool, hot tub, and free private parking
Check availabilityWhy guests love itI would consider this apartment-style stay near Universal for a family that wants a full kitchen, with one caution: guests rate it 9.5, but only 15 reviews stand behind that. Family rooms have air-conditioning, private bathrooms and fully equipped kitchens. A year-round outdoor pool, a hot tub, a garden and a fitness center are on site, and free private parking is included.

Pura Vida
Orlando
55 reviews
Spacious aparthotel units with an infinity pool and hot tub near Disney
Check availabilityWhy guests love itFor a larger family heading to Orlando, I would look hard at Pura Vida: each aparthotel unit has three bedrooms and two bathrooms, so nobody fights over the morning routine. Balconies look onto the garden or the lake, the infinity pool and hot tub fill the evenings, and a minimarket on site saves a supermarket run. Disney Springs is 7 km away and Orlando International Airport 28 km. A score of 9.5 from 55 reviews is outstanding.

Lake Nona Wave Hotel
Orlando
580 reviews
Balcony rooms with spa baths and a large outdoor pool
Check availabilityWhy guests love itLake Nona Wave Hotel suits Orlando families who want comfort between theme-park days. Rooms are air-conditioned, with balconies and private spa baths, and the large outdoor swimming pool is where children will want to spend their afternoons. Parents can book the full spa with its steam room or use the fitness center. The family-friendly restaurant offers vegetarian and gluten-free menus, pets are allowed, and WiFi is free. Guests rate it 9.4 from 580 reviews.

Holiday Inn Express Orlando - South Park by IHG
Orlando
262 reviews
Comfortable rooms with a year-round outdoor pool and free breakfast
Check availabilityWhy guests love itFor families spending their money on park tickets rather than the room, this Holiday Inn Express is a sensible base. The buffet breakfast is included, which saves time and money before an early start, and the outdoor pool is open all year for a swim after a long day. Rooms are simple, with desks and coffee makers, and the front desk runs around the clock. A 9.4 rating from 262 guests is high for a two-star hotel, which says a lot about how it is run.

Homewood Suites by Hilton Orlando-UCF Area
Orlando
264 reviews
All-suite hotel with kitchens, pool, and hot tub near UCF
Check availabilityWhy guests love itHomewood Suites by Hilton Orlando-UCF Area is an all-suite hotel, so families get room to spread out and a fully equipped kitchen for meals at their own pace. Breakfast is included, and the large outdoor pool and hot tub fill the late afternoons. The University of Central Florida is minutes away, which suits families visiting a student, and Waterford Lakes Town Center is within driving distance. Pets are accepted and parking is on site.

Home2 Suites By Hilton Orlando South Park - Near Epic Universe
Orlando
326 reviews
Spacious, pet-friendly suites with a year-round outdoor pool and daily breakfast
Check availabilityWhy guests love itI would pick this Home2 Suites for an Orlando family stay with a year-round pool and a free breakfast. Guests rate it 9.3 across 326 reviews, a strong result on a good sample. Rooms have sofa beds, flat-screen TVs and free WiFi, a year-round outdoor pool, a fitness center, a sun terrace and an outdoor fireplace are on site, and a continental buffet breakfast is served daily. Pets are welcome, and the city center is 11 km away.

Marriott's Sabal Palms
Orlando
104 reviews
Self-catering villas with balconies near Walt Disney World
Check availabilityWhy guests love itMarriott's Sabal Palms suits families planning several days at the parks. Walt Disney World is about 4.2 km away, and each villa has a full kitchen, a separate seating area, a balcony and a washer and dryer, which makes a week with children far easier than a standard hotel room. The outdoor pool and hot tub are there for the afternoons between park sessions, and a gym is available at the Sabal Palms Club House. Guests rate it 9.3 from 104 reviews.

Drury Plaza Hotel Orlando - Disney Springs Area
Orlando
2,994 reviews
Family-friendly hotel with a pool, hot tub, and easy Disney Springs access
Check availabilityWhy guests love itThis is an easy choice for a Disney trip with children. Family rooms give more space than a standard room, the included buffet breakfast saves a stop before the parks, and the outdoor pool and hot tub fill the afternoons between visits. Disney Springs, with its shops and restaurants, is close by for evenings out. On-site parking helps families with a rental car, and pets are accepted if the dog travels with you.

ette luxury hotel & spa - Near Disney Theme Parks
Orlando
1,103 reviews
Five-star comfort with a saltwater pool and full spa near Disney
Check availabilityWhy guests love itA saltwater swimming pool, a sun terrace and a garden give families a calm counterpoint to the theme parks at the ette luxury hotel & spa in Orlando. Rooms are spacious and air-conditioned, some with garden or city views. Parents can book beauty treatments at the full spa or use the fitness center, and the modern restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine. Access from I-4 is easy and parking is on site, which simplifies park days by car.

Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Orlando at Millenia
Orlando
282 reviews
Comfortable Orlando stay with a pool, fitness room, and free parking
Check availabilityWhy guests love itFairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Orlando at Millenia serves a child-friendly buffet breakfast, which makes early starts for the theme parks much easier. The outdoor swimming pool is the reward at the end of the day, and parents have a fitness room. Rooms have air-conditioning and private bathrooms, an on-site minimarket covers forgotten snacks, private check-in and check-out speed things up, and parking is free. Guests rate it 9.2 from 282 reviews.

Hampton Inn Lake Buena Vista / Orlando
Orlando
903 reviews
Pet-friendly resort with pool, hot tub, and complimentary breakfast
Check availabilityWhy guests love itFor a Disney trip, this Hampton Inn in Lake Buena Vista is practical: it lies 2.4 km from Walt Disney World Resort, with SeaWorld Orlando also nearby, so park days start with a short drive. The free breakfast gets everyone out early, and the pool and hot tub are there for the late afternoon when legs are tired. The concierge can help plan outings, and pets are accepted, which is uncommon this close to the parks.

Marriott's Royal Palms
Orlando
154 reviews
Family rooms with kitchens, outdoor pool, and hot tub near Disney Springs
Check availabilityWhy guests love itMarriott's Royal Palms suits families planning a full week around the Orlando parks. Family rooms come with balconies and fully equipped kitchens, so breakfasts and simple dinners happen at home, which keeps costs and tired moods under control. The year-round outdoor pool and hot tub fill the afternoons, and a tennis court and fitness centre give older children and parents something extra. Disney Springs is about 6 km away, making evening trips for dinner or shopping easy.

Drury Inn & Suites Orlando near Universal Orlando Resort
Orlando
2,207 reviews
Universal Partner hotel with free breakfast and nightly reception
Check availabilityWhy guests love itFamilies heading to Universal Orlando are about 2 km from the parks, and the hotel offers theme park package services as a Universal Partner Hotel. The free hot breakfast covers mornings before the parks, and the nightly reception with food and drinks can stand in for an early dinner with tired children. The pool and hot tub fill the evenings, and Restaurant Row offers plenty of choices nearby. On-site parking helps with a rental car.

Hampton Inn By Hilton Ocoee Orlando
Orlando
243 reviews
Outdoor pool, fitness room, and free breakfast near Orlando's attractions
Check availabilityWhy guests love itThe free American buffet breakfast takes care of mornings before a long day out, and rooms have a microwave and refrigerator for snacks and leftovers. The outdoor pool is open all year, which matters in the Central Florida heat. Parking is free on site and the hotel sits off a major highway, so driving to attractions around Orlando is straightforward. A 9.2 score from 243 reviews is excellent for a practical hotel.

Marriott's Harbour Lake
Orlando
228 reviews
Pirate-themed pool, mini-golf, and family fun near Sea World Orlando
Check availabilityWhy guests love itMarriott's Harbour Lake is designed around families: the outdoor pool complex runs a pirate-themed activity program for younger children, and there is a mini-golf course, a basketball court and table tennis on site. Rooms and villas have well-equipped kitchens, which makes a week in Orlando easier. SeaWorld is just 1.6 km away, and the resort sits off I-4. The Patio Bar & Grill serves meals all day.

Hyatt House Orlando Airport
Orlando
1,819 reviews
Family-friendly rooms with a pool, fitness center, and airport shuttle
Check availabilityWhy guests love itA free shuttle to Orlando International Airport is what I would value most at the Hyatt House with children in tow: no taxi to organise after a long flight. Family rooms keep everyone together, and the pool and sun terrace give the children a swim before or after the parks. The outdoor fireplace makes a pleasant evening spot, and the restaurant and bar save a drive for dinner. Pets are accepted. A score of 9.2 across 1,819 reviews is excellent.

The Alfond Inn
Orlando
194 reviews
Outdoor pool and southern dining near Rollins College and Park Avenue
Check availabilityWhy guests love itThe Alfond Inn is in Winter Park, just north of Orlando, 650 meters from Rollins College, which suits families visiting the campus or wanting a calmer base than the theme-park corridor. The outdoor pool is the children's afternoon spot, and nearby Park Avenue offers shops and restaurants for an easy evening stroll. Hamilton's Kitchen serves southern-style cuisine on site, each room has a refrigerator and coffee-making facilities, and pets are welcome. Guests rate it 9.2 from 194 reviews.

TownePlace Suites by Marriott Orlando Airport
Orlando
434 reviews
Kitchenettes, outdoor pool, and free airport shuttle near Orlando Airport
Check availabilityWhy guests love itTownePlace Suites by Marriott Orlando Airport suits families with an early or late flight: it lies 5 km from Orlando International Airport and runs a free shuttle. Each room has a fully equipped kitchenette and a sofa bed, so children get their own bed and meals are easy. The outdoor pool is open all year and the outdoor fireplace is pleasant in the evening. Parking is free, which helps if you pick up a rental car, and pets are welcome.

Cozy Getaway
Orlando
70 reviews
Two-bedroom apartments with a pool, fitness center, and balconies
Check availabilityWhy guests love itCozy Getaway offers two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartments in Orlando with a spacious living room, a balcony and a fully equipped kitchen, a layout that gives a family room to spread out. The outdoor pool is open all year, and free bicycles add an activity for older children. The Wheel at ICON Park is 2 km away and Ripley's Believe It or Not! is a 16-minute walk, two easy outings on International Drive.

Marriott's Cypress Harbour Villas
Orlando
397 reviews
Lakefront villas with full kitchens, a spa, and easy access to theme parks
Check availabilityWhy guests love itTwo-bedroom villas with a full kitchen, a separate living room, a sofa bed and a dining table make Marriott's Cypress Harbour Villas a strong family base in Orlando. Each villa has a washing machine and tumble dryer, plus a balcony or porch overlooking the lake. The lakeside pool and hot tub fill the evenings, and the Namaste Spa is there for parents. SeaWorld Orlando is 1.6 km away and Walt Disney World about 9.6 km.

Home2 Suites By Hilton Orlando Near UCF
Orlando
377 reviews
Pet-friendly suites with kitchens and a saltwater pool near UCF
Check availabilityWhy guests love itEvery suite at the Home2 Suites Orlando Near UCF has a full kitchen and a sofa bed, which gives families space and the option of meals in the room. The saltwater pool and the sun terrace fill the afternoons, and the outdoor seating area has barbecue facilities for an easy dinner. Breakfast is complimentary, parking is free and pets are accepted. The University of Central Florida is close, handy for campus visits on the east side of Orlando.

Courtyard by Marriott Orlando Lake Nona
Orlando
88 reviews
Year-round outdoor pool and free bikes near Orlando International Airport
Check availabilityWhy guests love itCourtyard by Marriott Orlando Lake Nona keeps its outdoor swimming pool open year-round, so a swim is always possible between park days. Free bicycles let older children and parents ride around the area, and the fitness center covers early workouts. Rooms have air-conditioning, private bathrooms and free WiFi, the restaurant serves American cuisine, and parking is free with EV charging on site. Orlando International Airport is close by, and guests rate it 9.1 from 88 reviews.

Staybridge Suites Orlando at SeaWorld by IHG - Free Breakfast & Shuttle to SeaWorld Parks
Orlando
879 reviews
Family-friendly suites near SeaWorld with free shuttle and breakfast
Check availabilityWhy guests love itStaybridge Suites Orlando at SeaWorld is just 1.2 km from SeaWorld, and a free scheduled shuttle runs to the SeaWorld Orlando theme parks, so families can skip park parking on those days. Transport to Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort is available for a fee. After the parks, children can cool off in the outdoor pool. Rooms have flat-screen TVs and coffee machines, some with a seating area, and parking is free. Guests rate it 9.0 from 879 reviews.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Orlando Downtown
Orlando
644 reviews
Downtown Orlando suites with an outdoor pool and pet-friendly policy
Check availabilityWhy guests love itSuites with a fridge and microwave are why I would point families to the Embassy Suites Orlando Downtown: snacks, milk and simple meals stay at hand. The free cooked-to-order breakfast saves a stop before the day starts, and the outdoor pool is welcome in the Florida heat. Parents get a free evening manager's reception. The hotel sits just off I-4, the main road toward the parks. Pets are accepted. A score of 8.7 across 644 reviews is solid.

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Orlando International Drive/Convention Center
Orlando
1,446 reviews
Recently renovated hotel with an outdoor pool near Orlando's theme parks
Check availabilityWhy guests love itFor a family theme park trip on a sensible budget, this Fairfield Inn on International Drive does the job well. Universal Orlando and SeaWorld are a short drive, and International Drive has plenty of casual restaurants for easy dinners. The outdoor pool gives children an afternoon break from the parks, and rooms were recently renovated, with coffee-making facilities for early starts. The 8.7 rating from more than 1,400 guests suggests few surprises, which matters on a busy family holiday.

Rosen Plaza Hotel Orlando Convention Center
Orlando
1,714 reviews
Sky bridge to the Convention Center, with a pool and pet-friendly rooms
Check availabilityWhy guests love itPointe Orlando's shops and restaurants are a short walk from the Rosen Plaza, which I like for families when one parent is at the Orange County Convention Center, reached by sky bridge. The pool and hot tub cover afternoons, and four dining options, from casual to more refined, avoid the same meal twice. Pets are accepted. Theme park and airport transfers cost extra, so I would budget for them. A score of 8.6 from 1,714 reviews is solid.
What to expect
- Theme park capital: Home to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld.
- Diverse dining: From international cuisine to local Florida flavors.
- Shopping galore: Outlets, malls, and unique boutiques.
- Outdoor activities: Golf courses, airboat rides, and natural parks.
- Year-round warm weather: Ideal for pool days and outdoor exploration.
Local tips
- Book theme park tickets and accommodations well in advance, especially during peak seasons like summer and holidays.
- Consider renting a car for flexibility, as attractions are spread out. Many hotels offer free parking.
- Utilize hotel shuttle services to theme parks to save on parking fees and avoid traffic.
- Visit during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for milder weather and fewer crowds.
- Explore areas beyond the theme parks, such as Winter Park for boutique shopping and dining, or Lake Nona for modern amenities.
Where to stay
Frequently asked questions
What are the best neighborhoods to stay in Orlando?
For theme park access, Lake Buena Vista and International Drive are prime choices, offering proximity to Disney and Universal. Downtown Orlando provides a more urban experience with nightlife and cultural attractions. The Lake Nona area is ideal for those seeking modern amenities and proximity to the airport.
What types of accommodation are available in Orlando?
Orlando offers a vast range of accommodations, including large resorts with extensive amenities, family-friendly hotels with pools and kitchens, budget motels, and vacation rentals. Many properties cater specifically to families visiting theme parks, often including shuttle services and dining options.
What is the best time of year to visit Orlando?
The best time to visit Orlando is typically from March to May or September to November. During these periods, the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are generally smaller than during the summer or holiday seasons. Summers are hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
How do I get around Orlando?
Renting a car is the most flexible option for navigating Orlando, especially for visiting multiple theme parks and attractions. Many hotels offer free parking. Ride-sharing services are widely available, and some hotels provide shuttle services to major theme parks, reducing the need for personal transportation.