Most people head to Orlando to head to either Disneyworld or Universal Studios. It’s not surprising, because both places are pretty incredible to visit at least once in a lifetime.
Overall, the best places to stay in Orlando are anywhere between the east side of Walt Disney World Resort and Downtown Orlando. Basically, not too far from Universal Studios.
Choose the Best Location for Your Visit
You can find awesome rooms and prices everywhere, but I recommend choosing where to stay in Orlando based on what you plan to do during your stay.
If you’re heading to Disneyworld or Universal your best bet is to stay at their hotels. It will get you transportation to the theme parks and early entry into the magical lands and it’s simply much more convenient.
Plus, some hotels come with extra special perks like Express Passes that ultimately make your visit to theme parks cheaper and more pleasant.
Book a Hotel with a Pool
In Florida, it can feel like summer almost year-round so many head to the pool as there are no beaches near Orlando directly, and you have to drive a bit.
Clearwater Beach is regularly voted one of the best beaches in Florida and while it’s fantastic, it’s 1.5 hour away from Orlando.
That said, book a hotel with a pool. Various hotels in Orlando even have waterparks and most pools are slightly heated, which is quite fantastic.
Best Hotels with Waterparks in Orlando
Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center
If you’re looking for the ultimate resort experience which includes a full on-site waterpark, look no further than this incredible hotel. The outdoor pools feature huge waterslides, a surf pool, water playgrounds, and even a river rapid ride. But the magic doesn’t stop when you go inside, the atrium features an indoor jungle complete with an artificial lagoon featuring a grand ship with a restaurant on board!
Orlando World Center Marriott
Orlando World Center Marriot boats 6 different pools, a 575 ft lazy river, aqua playgrounds for the little ones, and 6 super fun waterslides. Parents can relax in the poolside cabanas, get a treatment at the spa or play a round on the 18-hole championship golf course. There’s something for everyone here!
Reunion Resort & Golf Club
You never have the leave the water at this incredible resort with 11 different swimming pools and a full 5 acres of waterpark onsite. The 1000 ft lazy river floats past waterfalls and even goes under the water slide. There are also many different poolside games for the kids to try like ping pong, corn hole, and relay races plus cabana and poolside food vendors.
Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate
There are 3 amazing pools to choose from at Omni Orlando including a huge wave pool! The family pool features a super fun corkscrew waterslide and whirlpool, plus the 850ft lazy river weaves through little rapids, tunnels, and hidden canyons. For the little ones, there is an additional kids pool with smaller waterslides and for the adults, you get a whole pool for 18+ years old only with poolside cabanas and hot tubs.
Best Luxury Hotels in Orlando
JW Marriott Orlando Grand Lakes
Featuring an epic pool, beautiful grounds, and spectacular views of the lake, this 5-star hotel near Universal Studios is both luxurious and classy. Seven onsite restaurants and a poolside bar cater to the needs of the stomach, while an extensive fitness center and spa help you burn those calories off. Fly fishing excursions and kayak tours can be arranged.
Waldorf Astoria Orlando
Located on a 482-acre nature preserve next to Walt Disney Resort, this hotel features an 18-hole golf course, a lazy river, kid’s club, 2 swimming pools, private cabanas, and a full-service spa. 12 onsite restaurants provide fantastic drinking and dining facilities, while rooms include every luxury.
Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge
Feels like staying in an Arnold Palmer museum, this Club features a 27-hole championship golf course, a Junior Olympic-size pool, a well-equipped spa, and an onsite Bay Hill Pro Shop that sells signature golf equipment. Guests can choose from rooms, suites, or entire houses.
Mid-Range & Budget Hotels in Orlando
Embassy Suites by Hilton- Lake Buena Vista Resort
This all-suite hotel with exceptional amenities is also family-friendly and perfect for travel with young ones of all ages. Take advantage of the happy hour with drinks and snacks every evening, or watch the nightly movie on the big screen in the pool area.
Rosen Shingle Creek Universal Blvd
This elegant resort covering 230 acres features its own golf course, full-service spa, 4 swimming pools with one of them being adult-only. Guests can participate in the golf academy, go fishing or explore scenic walking trails. Dinner can be had at any of the four onsite restaurants, including the legendary steakhouse, A Land Remembered, named after the book by Patrick Smith.
Candlewood Suites – Orlando – Lake Buena Vista, an IHG Hotel
Rooms and suites at this IHG Hotel include every necessary amenity from dishwashers to coffee machines, and a desk and are budget-friendly too! Guests can take advantage of the shuttle service, and also have access to a shared lounge, onsite ATM, and outdoor swimming pool.
Villas Hotels in Orlando
Luxury 8 Bedroom, 6 Bathroom Upscale Villa Near All The Fun in Kissimmee
With Kissimmee closer to Disney and other attractions than Orlando, this upscale luxury villa is the perfect place to base yourself while visiting Orlando! The 8-bedroom villa features a sheltered swimming pool, hot tub, kitchen, dining area, and every amenity. Perfect for a larger family or group traveling together!
Budget-friendly Orlando Lakefront Tiny Houses
This tiny house right on the lake has a lot to offer. You might get to see birds and animals wandering right outside your door. Apart from that guests have access to fishing poles, BBQ facilities, and a sun terrace. There is also access to a small dock as well as to the owner’s kayaks and rowboats. The houses are well-equipped and perfect for short stays!