Chapter 9Checking In at Orlando’s
Best Hotels
In This Chapter
Finding a hotel room that meets your needs
Getting a good room rate
Clicking your way to a reservation
Knowing what to do if you don’t have a reservation
Checking out the best hotels
W
here you plant yourself during your Orlando vacation determines
many things about your trip, including your itineraries, the
amount of money you spend, and your need, if any, for a car rental.
Deciding where to stay in the city isn’t easy because its 114,000 rooms
come in many different flavors: hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts
(B&Bs), and so on. Luckily, I show you how to narrow down your choices.
Getting to Know Your Options
Something you can take to the bank: Unlike the less competitive areas
of Florida, almost all hotels in Orlando — at least the ones listed in
this guide — have been either built or renovated in the past 10 or
12 years (though it’s likely renovations have been closer to within the
last 1–3 years), so you can expect reasonably modern trimmings. The
city sometimes seems like Chain Central, and you will find branches
of pretty much every major hotel and motel chain in the major tourist
zones, especially on International Drive and in Kissimmee. Note that
even the high-end properties tend to have a more relaxed feel than coun-
terparts in other cities thanks to the theme parks; you’re more likely to
see Goofy hats than Gucci ones here. (See the Appendix at the back of
this guide for a list of the major hotel chains’ toll-free numbers.)
Every hotel that I list in this chapter has air-conditioning and at least
one pool (or I tell you otherwise). Most have cable TV, and some offer
in-room movies, Internet connections, and Nintendo for a fee. Likewise,
many have hair dryers, coffeemakers, and in-room safes. Almost all
88Part III: Settling into Orlando
hotels in the city (with a few exceptions that I alert you to) offer free
parking, but few these days throw in breakfast with your room rate
(most that do tend to fall on the lower end of the price scale). Most
places in Orlando try to make kids feel as if they’re Mickey’s favorite
relatives and offer lots of little extras and amenities for families. While
that’s great for parents, Orlando (believe it or not) is the top honeymoon
destination in the United States, so there are plenty of places that cater
to the adults, too.
Avoiding children for almost any length of time during your visit is next
to impossible, but if you’re childfree and don’t relish the thought of
screaming kids in the room next door, there are ways to improve the
odds to your favor. The bad news is that the quiet definitely costs
you. As a general rule — Disney and Universal Orlando properties not
included — the more expensive a hotel is, the less likely you are to run
into children (but keep in mind that even the business hotels here still
cater to the family market in some form or another). Some of Orlando’s
B&Bs don’t allow children younger than 16 to stay as guests, and these
often feature luxurious rooms that rival those of the big resorts. If you
don’t want to spend the extra money, remember that few people spend
much time in their rooms anyway.
Price and location, when all is said and done, are the factors that really
decide where you rest your head for the night. Although you pay more
for the best locations, you may find these hotels well worth the conven-
iences they offer. The closer your hotel is to the things you want to do
and see, the less time and money you waste getting to your destination.
And that’s why the two major players in town are deserving of a closer
look.
Walt Disney World
Disney has the corner on the Orlando hotel market, boasting high
occupancy rates even during slow times. There are 22 Disney-owned-
and-operated resorts and nine “official” hotels — those that are privately
owned but have earned Disney’s seal of approval — located on WDW
property.
Disney’s accommodations run the gamut from motel-style rooms to
grand villas with full kitchens. The decision to bunk (or not to bunk)
with the Mouse is probably the most important one you make regarding
your accommodations. To decide whether an on-property stay is right
for you, consider these facts: The benefits of lodging in Mickey’s back-
yard include:
Unlimited free transportation via the Walt Disney World
Transportation System’s buses, monorails, ferries, and water taxis
to and from the four theme parks, resorts, and smaller attractions.
This also means you’re guaranteed admission to all the parks, even
during peak times when parking lots fill to capacity and many folks
not staying with Mickey are left in the cold.
89Chapter 9: Checking In at Orlando’s Best Hotels
Free parking inside theme-park lots if you choose to chauffeur your-
self. (Other visitors pay $8 a day.)
Kids younger than 17 stay free in their parent’s room, and reduced-
price children’s menus are available in most restaurants.
Access to some of the best hotel pools in all of Orlando.
Resort guests can charge most purchases (including meals) made
anywhere inside WDW to their room. You can also usually have
them delivered to your room at no extra charge.
You can purchase WDW park and attraction tickets right at your
hotel’s guest-relations or concierge desk, avoiding the often long
lines at the parks themselves. (See Chapter 11 for more on WDW
admission options.) You can also make reservations for dining and
preferred tee times at Disney’s golf courses through guest relations
or the concierge.
No resorts are more convenient to the Disney parks and attractions.
The Extra Magic Hour allows resort guests before- and after-hours
admission to one of the four theme parks. Disney distributes a
schedule that lists which parks are open extra hours on what days
and at what time (for information, see Chapter 11).
Disney’s Magical Express transports you and your luggage from the
airport to your resort if you fly via participating airlines (currently
American, Continental, Delta, Song, United, Ted, and Northwest) to
Orlando International Airport. Your luggage will appear in your
resort room without you ever having to retrieve it from baggage
claim in Orlando. You will be transported (round-trip) to your
resort at no additional charge in a special Disney shuttle. Other
great perks include the ability to print your boarding pass prior to
departing from your resort, therefore avoiding at least one line at
the airport. This service is available throughout the Happiest
Celebration on Earth, which kicked off in May 2005 and will run
through late 2006.
The drawbacks of staying with the Mouse include:
The Walt Disney World Transportation System can be excruciat-
ingly time-consuming and difficult to maneuver with young children
and all their paraphernalia.
Resort rates are about 20 to 30 percent higher than prices at com-
parable hotels and motels located beyond the parks’ boundaries.
You may wind up a prisoner of Disney, unable to avoid the stiff
pricing for meals, trinkets, and so on.
Without your own vehicle, it’s difficult and expensive to leave Disney
property to experience the rest of what Orlando has to offer (which
is quite a bit).
90Part III: Settling into Orlando
Universal Orlando
Universal Orlando is actually a relatively new player on the Orlando hotel
scene and only boasts three properties (though plans to tack on at least
two more in the future have been drawn up). The Universal resorts are all
operated by the luxury Loews Hotel group and the standard of accommo-
dations is actually a bit better than the majority of those at Disney. If your
itinerary favors Universal Orlando, staying at one of its three properties
affords you some rather meaningful perks at the Universal parks.
The benefits of staying at one of Universal’s three resorts:
Unlimited free transportation via water taxi from the resorts to
CityWalk and both Universal parks.
Unlike Disney, Universal Orlando’s smaller number of resorts
means everything really is within walking distance of the parks.
Resort guests enjoy special privileges at the Universal Orlando
theme parks, including front-of-the-line access to rides and preferred
seating at shows and many restaurants from the day of check-in to
the day of check-out. This is a huge benefit, especially during the
more crowded months when lines can be excruciatingly long. All
you have to do is show your room key and you can bypass the reg-
ular lines. Additionally, guests are allowed early entry to the parks
on scheduled days.
Universal’s resorts all accept pets, so Fido or Fluffy can live the
luxurious lifestyle right along with you instead of having to be
relegated to a kennel.
The drawbacks of staying at the Universal resorts are as follows:
While there is shuttle service to SeaWorld and Wet ’n Wild from
the resorts, you’ll have to arrange your own transportation if you
want to set foot on Disney property.
Resort rates are at least 30 percent higher than at comparable
hotels and motels (though, honestly, few are really comparable)
located even a block from the parks. You won’t find anything for
under $100 a night.
As when staying at a Disney resort, you’re subjected to higher
prices for dining and other vacation necessities.
Universal resorts don’t offer free parking (it costs $6 a day), which
is a universal perk everywhere else in the theme-park zones!
Finding the Best Room at the Best Rate
The rack rate is the published (and usually the maximum) rate a hotel
charges for a room. It’s the rate you get if you walk in off the street and
ask for a room for the night. You sometimes see these rates printed on
91Chapter 9: Checking In at Orlando’s Best Hotels
the fire/emergency exit diagrams posted on the back of your door.
Hotels are happy to charge you the rack rate, but you can almost always
do better. Perhaps the best way to avoid paying the rack rate is surpris-
ingly simple: Just ask for a cheaper or discounted rate and it’s likely
you’ll get one.
Reserving a room through the hotel’s toll-free number may also result in
a lower rate than calling the hotel directly. On the other hand, the cen-
tral reservations number may not know about discount rates at specific
locations. Your best bet is to call both the local number and the toll-free
number and see which one gives you a better deal. Whatever you do,
don’t ever come to town without a reservation. Orlando is a year-round
destination, it has a heavy convention and business trade, and school
lets out during varying times of the year in other nations. If you come
without a reservation, you may find yourself extremely disappointed —
or even completely out of luck.
If you’re a student, senior, military or government employee (or retiree),
or a member of AAA or AARP, ask about discounts. The Orlando/Orange
County Convention and Visitors Bureau’s free Magicard (% 800-643-
9492; www.orlandoinfo.com) is good for a family of six and offers
hundreds of dollars in discounts on accommodations, car rentals, attrac-
tions, and restaurants. The Entertainment Book (www.entertainment
book.com) is another good source for discounts on hotels, car rentals,
restaurants, and attractions. It costs $25 for the Orlando version, but
you will recoup your investment after using just a few coupons.
As a rule, Disney resorts, villas, and official hotels don’t offer regular
discounts other than for slight seasonal variations. WDW’s 2005 value
seasons or lowest rates were available from January 1 to February 16,
August 28 to October 4 (except Labor Day weekend), and November 27
to December 19. Regular season rates were available from April 17 to
August 27 and October 5 to November 26. Peak rates applied from
February 17 to April 16, and December 20 to December 31. While the
actual dates will shift a little (and those listed are for the value and mod-
erate resorts and vary slightly for the deluxe and vacation-club level
resorts), the same periods should apply in 2006.
One of the best ways to catch a break from Mickey’s prices is through a
travel package (see Chapter 5). Disney offers vacation plans that can
include meals, tickets, recreation, airfare, rentals, dinner shows, and
other features. Call the Central Reservations Office (% 407-934-7639)
or go to www.disneyworld.com to book both rooms and packages or to
get the lowdown on WDW, including vacation brochures and DVDs.
Before calling Disney to make reservations, take a moment to visit
MouseSavers (www.mousesavers.com). This unofficial Disney discount
site is extremely diligent about keeping up-to-date listings on all dis-
counts offered by Disney, whether it be room discount codes or details
on special package deals. Spending a few minutes looking over the list-
ings can save you hundreds of dollars when booking direct with Disney.
92Part III: Settling into Orlando
When booking your room, don’t forget to allow for the area’s combined
sales and resort taxes. In Orange County (Orlando, Lake Buena Vista,
Winter Park, and Maitland), the tax equals 11 percent. In Osceola County
(Kissimmee/St. Cloud), the taxes add 12 percent to your bill.
When making your reservation, ask some pointed questions to make sure
that you have the best room in the house. For example, always ask for a
corner room. They’re usually larger and quieter, include more windows
and light than standard rooms, and don’t always cost more. Likewise, ask
which floor and side has the best view, if there is one, as well as whether
the hotel is renovating. (If so, request a room away from the renovation
work.) You can also ask about the location of the restaurants, bars, and
clubs in the hotel — these may be a source of irritating noise. If you
aren’t happy with your room when you arrive, talk to the front desk. If
they have another room, they will likely accommodate you — within
reason, of course.
Surfing the Web for Hotel Deals
Shopping online for hotels is generally done one of two ways: by booking
through the hotel’s own Web site or through an independent booking
agency (or a fare-service agency like Priceline). These Internet hotel
agencies have multiplied in mind-boggling numbers of late, competing
for the business of millions of consumers surfing for accommodations
around the world. This competitiveness can be a boon to consumers
who have the patience and time to shop and compare the online sites
for good deals — but shop they must, for prices can vary considerably
from site to site. And keep in mind that hotels at the top of a site’s listing
may be there for no other reason than that they paid money to get the
placement.
You almost never find a WDW resort on any discounter’s Web site. If you
want to book a Disney hotel online, you have to go through a packager or
Disney’s own Web site at www.disneyworld.com. Each individual resort
is listed on the site and information is available on rooms, rates, floor
plans, restaurants, recreation, and so on. The only hotels on Disney prop-
erty that you can book through a discounter are the “official” hotels.
Of the “big three” sites, Expedia offers a long list of special deals and
“virtual tours” or photos of available rooms so you can see what you’re
paying for (a feature that helps counter the claims that the best rooms
are often held back from bargain-booking Web sites). Travelocity posts
unvarnished customer reviews and ranks its properties according to the
AAA rating system. Also reliable are Hotels.com and Quikbook.com. An
excellent free program, TravelAxe (www.travelaxe.net), can help you
search multiple hotel sites at once, even ones you may never have heard
of — and conveniently lists the total price of the room, including the
93Chapter 9: Checking In at Orlando’s Best Hotels
taxes and service charges. It covers a large number of Orlando’s best
hotels, and I heartily recommend giving it a try.
Another booking site, Travelweb (www.travelweb), is partly owned by
the hotels it represents (including the Hilton, Hyatt, and Starwood
chains) and is therefore plugged directly into the hotels’ reservations
systems — unlike independent online agencies, which have to fax or
e-mail reservation requests to the hotel, a good portion of which get
misplaced in the shuffle. More than once, travelers have arrived at the
hotel, only to be told that they have no reservation. To be fair, many
of the major sites are undergoing improvements in service and ease of
use, and Expedia will soon be able to plug directly into the reservations
systems of many hotel chains — none of which can be bad news for con-
sumers. In the meantime, it’s a good idea to get a confirmation number
and make a printout of any online booking transaction.
In the opaque Web site category, Priceline and Hotwire are even better
for hotels than for airfares; with both, you’re allowed to pick the neigh-
borhood and quality level of your hotel before offering up your money.
Priceline’s hotel product even covers Europe and Asia, though it’s much
better at getting five-star lodging for three-star prices than at finding
anything at the bottom of the scale. On the down side, many hotels stick
Priceline guests in their least desirable rooms. Be sure to go to the
BiddingforTravel Web site (www.biddingfortravel.com) before bid-
ding on a hotel room on Priceline; it features a fairly up-to-date list of
hotels that Priceline uses in major cities. For both Priceline and Hotwire,
you pay up front, and the fee is nonrefundable. Note: Some hotels do not
provide loyalty program credits or points or other frequent-stay ameni-
ties when you book a room through opaque online services.
Arriving Without a Reservation
My first bit of advice: Don’t come to Orlando without a reservation. If
you do, you’re more likely to end up feeling like Grumpy than Happy.
This advice is especially true when it’s high-travel season and rooms are
both pricey and scarce. If you do, however, decide to head for Orlando
on a spur-of-the-moment inspiration, there are a few options to pursue
before setting up camp in your car.
The Orlando Visitors Center is related to the Orlando/Orange County
Convention and Visitors Bureau. These folks find last-minute rooms for
nonplanners. Room rates, depending on the seasons, can be a bargain.
However, you can get a room only for the night you visit the center, and
you have to come in person to find out what is available. The Visitors
Center is located in Orlando at 8723 International Drive, a mile west of
Sand Lake Road (% 407-363-5872 for information only).
94Part III: Settling into Orlando
Your only other option is to try the reservation service listed in the
“Surfing the Web for Hotel Deals” section earlier in this chapter.
Orlando’s Best Hotels
All the rates in this section are per night double, but many accommoda-
tions, including all Disney resorts, allow kids younger than 17 to stay
free with their parents or grandparents (as long as the number of guests
doesn’t exceed the maximum occupancy). However, always ask about
rates for kids when booking your room. Also, unless otherwise noted,
all the hotels in this section offer free self-parking.
To make it easy for you to recognize expensive versus moderately
priced hotels, each of the following entries includes one or more $ sym-
bols. See Table 9-1 “Key to Hotel Dollar Signs” for the meaning behind
the symbols. In general, expect higher hotel prices on the more upscale
digs as well as those in or near the attractions. Almost every hotel in
Orlando caters to families with children, but I list hotels, resorts, and
inns that are especially good fits for adults on the “Good for Grown-ups”
list found on this book’s tear-out cheat sheet.
Several of the properties in this chapter add resort fees that can range
from $5 to upwards of $15 to their daily room rates. That’s part of an
unfortunate but growing hotel trend of charging for services that used to
be included in the rates, such as use of the pool, admission to the health
club, or in-room coffee, safe, or phones (each hotel varies greatly). If it’s
a concern, ask if your hotel charges such a fee (and just what it’s for)
when booking so you don’t get blindsided at checkout. At some hotels
the fee is optional, and you don’t need to pay it if you don’t use the
amenities or recreational facilities it covers.
Table 9-1
Key to Hotel Dollar Signs
Dollar Sign
Price Range
What to Expect
$
Less than $100
Accommodations at this level generally
include basic trimmings and limited space.
They also lean toward the no-frills side. Those
at the higher end may offer amenities such as
hair dryers, coffeemakers, cable TV, a midsize
pool, a kid’s play area, and continental break-
fast. If they’re multistory, they also usually
have an elevator.
95Chapter 9: Checking In at Orlando’s Best Hotels
Dollar Sign
Price Range
What to Expect
$$
$101–$200
Lodgings in this price range probably offer a
choice of king-size or double beds, possibly
suites if they fall in the higher end, a full range
of amenities (hair dryer, coffeemakers, two TVs
in the two-room models, multiline phones and,
possibly, a modem line, VCRs, free daily news-
paper, and designer shampoos), and room
service. Rooms are slightly larger, and a
Jacuzzi and fitness center may accompany
the pool. The continental breakfast probably
includes fresh fruit, granola, and muffins rather
than day-old doughnuts and little boxes of
cereal. The hotel may also have at least one
palatable on-site restaurant. Some may have a
guest-services desk for purchasing attraction
tickets and making dinner arrangements.
$$$
$201–$300
Hotels at this level are sure to have a guest-
services desk, possibly a concierge. They also
usually include a large, resort-style pool, possi-
bly a second smaller or toddler pool, and multi-
ple Jacuzzi tubs (some of the higher-end rooms
have their own), a fitness center, and occa-
sionally a small spa. Rooms generally have
multiple phones, minibars, a bath and separate
shower. Many rooms are larger, some with
small sitting areas, a pull-out sofa, and large
work desks. Some hotels in this category offer
supervised children’s programs and activities.
$$$$
$301 and up
Nothing in this price range is impossible. In
addition to the amenities in the previous cate-
gories, many of these hotels offer concierge
levels, extra-large rooms, spacious suites, 24-
hour room service, gorgeous pool bars, and
live entertainment in their lounges. Some also
include full-service spas, gourmet restaurants,
shopping arcades, and tight security.
Recreational facilities are usually extensive
and lavish. Many offer supervised children’s
programs and activities.
Tampa
Chapter 9: Checking In at Orlando’s Best Hotels
97
98Part III: Settling into Orlando
A home away from home
If you want all the comforts of home or are traveling in a group of five or more, you
might consider bypassing hotels or motels in favor of a rental condo or home. Rates
vary widely depending on quality and location, and some may require a 2- or 3-night
minimum stay. A lot of these properties are 5 to 15 miles from the theme parks and
offer no transportation, so having a car is a necessity.
On the plus side, most have two to six bedrooms and a convertible couch, two or more
bathrooms, a full kitchen, multiple TVs and phones, and irons. Some have washers
and dryers. Homes often have their own private, screen-enclosed pool, while condos
have a common one.
On the minus side, they can be lacking in services. Most don’t have daily maid serv-
ice, and restaurants can be as far away as the parks. (There’s another reason you’ll
need a car.) Be sure to check and see if they offer dinnerware, utensils, or salt-and-
pepper shakers — it generally depends on the level of the home chosen.
Rates range from about $75 to $450 per night ($300–$3,200 per week).
All Star Vacation Homes offers an array of homes and condos, all of which are within
only 4 miles of Disney and close to all the areas restaurants and attractions. Homes
fall into a wide range of luxury and size. Many have private, screened-in pools. Call
% 888-249-1779 or 407-997-0733 or see their offerings online at www.allstar
vacationhomes.com.
AmeriSuites Universal
$–$$ International Drive Area/Universal Orlando
It’s tough to beat the value and roominess of these kitchenette-equipped
suites, especially if your goal is to be very close to the Universal theme
parks without having to pay the heftier rates that come with staying on
park property. The modern, spacious rooms allow you to stretch out more
than in standard hotel/motel accommodations, and the location is especially
convenient if Universal Orlando is your target. The free buffet breakfast is
a bonus.
See map p. 113. 895 Caravan Crt. (Take I-4 to Exit 75B/Kirkman Rd., then turn right at
the first light, Major Boulevard, and the next right, Caravan Court. The hotel is on the
right.) % 800-833-1516 or 407-351-0627. Fax: 407-331-3317. www.amerisuites.
com. 151 units. Rack rates: $89–$139. AE, DC, DISC, MC, V.
Celebration Hotel
$$–$$$$ Kissimmee
Located in the Disney-esque town of Celebration, this upscale and charm-
ingly sophisticated hotel has a three-story, wood-frame design straight out
of 1920s Florida. A bit off the beaten path, it offers a romantic atmosphere
for couples, although children are welcome. All rooms offer dataports,
99Chapter 9: Checking In at Orlando’s Best Hotels
safes, hair dryers, and TVs with Nintendo. Suites and studios have
refrigerators and wet bars. Other amenities include a pool, Jacuzzi, and
fitness center. Shops, an 18-hole golf course, a movie theater, and several
restaurants are within walking distance. A free shuttle to WDW parks, and
transportation for a fee to other parks are available.
See map p. 109. 700 Bloom St. (Take I-4 to the U.S. 192 exit, go east to second light,
then right on Celebration Ave.) % 888-499-3800 or 407-566-6000. Fax: 407-566-6001.
www.celebrationhotel.com. 115 units. Rack rates: $139–$219; $289–$470
suites. Daily resort fee: $5. Valet parking: $13. AE, DC, DISC, MC, V.
Comfort Suites Maingate East
$–$$ Kissimmee
Set back from the main drag, this fairly new and welcoming hotel is one of
the nicest in the area. The lobby and accommodations — consisting of
studio and one-bedroom suites — are bright and inviting. The main pool
and the children’s pool, with an umbrella fountain to keep everyone cool,
are open around the clock. For entertainment, Old Town (a small-scale
shopping, dining, and entertainment complex) is next door, and a great
miniature golf course is located just in front of the property.
See map p. 109. 2775 Florida Plaza Blvd. (Take I-4 to the US 192 exit, go east 13⁄4 miles,
then right on Florida Plaza Boulevard.) % 888-782-9772 or 407-397-7848. Fax: 407-
396-7045. www.comfortsuitesfl.com. 198 units. Rack rates: $65–$150. AE, DC,
DISC, MC, V.
Comfort Suites Maingate at Formosa Gardens
$–$$ Kissimmee
Just across the street from the La Quinta Inn Lakeside (see below) and up
the road from WDW, this clean, comfortable, place to stay has kept itself
modern and in good shape. The “suites” have a small dividing wall slightly
separating the living area from the sleeping quarters, but the illusion of
privacy is there. Accommodations are a bit bigger than most and can
squeeze in up to six. A bit of tropical landscaping gives it an inviting atmos-
phere and shelters guests from busy U.S. 192. At least 10 restaurants and
a small shopping plaza are within walking distance, and there’s a minia-
ture golf course right across the street. A buffet breakfast is included in
the cost.
See map p. 109. 7888 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy/U.S. 192 (Take I-4 to Exit
64B/West Hwy. 192; hotel is 3 miles on left). % 888-390-9888 or 407-390-9888. Fax:
407-390-09811607. www.kisscomfortsuite.com. 150 units. Rack rates: $50–$150.
AE, DC, DISC, MC, V.
Courtyard at Lake Lucerne
$–$$$
Downtown Orlando
This charming B&B hideaway is located within walking distance to several
of downtown’s cultural attractions, upscale eateries, and shops. It is made
up of several historic buildings: The Norment-Parry Inn is an 1883
100 Part III: Settling into OrlandoVictorian-style home with six rooms decorated with English and American
antiques; four have sitting rooms, and all have private baths. A honeymoon
suite has a walnut bed, fireplace, and a small, glass-enclosed porch. The
I. W. Phillips House, built in 1919, is a Southern jewel with three upstairs
suites, one with a whirlpool, and all with verandas overlooking the gar-
dens and fountain. The Dr. Phillip Phillips House (1893) and the Wellborn
(1946) round out the offerings. Rates include a continental breakfast.
211 N. Lucerne Circle E. (Take Orange Avenue south; immediately following City Hall,
turn left onto Anderson. After 2 lights, at Delaney Avenue, turn right. Take first right
onto Lucerne Circle. Follow the brown “historic inn” signs.) % 800-444-5289 or
407-648-5188. Fax: 407-246-1368. www.orlandohistoricinn.com. 30 units. Rack
rates: $89–$225 double. AE, DC, MC, V.
Crowne Plaza Orlando-Universal
$$$–$$$$ International Drive Area/Universal Orlando
Sleek, modern, and upscale, this 15-story hotel is close to Universal
Orlando and SeaWorld (about midway between them), although getting to
Disney is no problem because the hotel offers free shuttles to all the major
parks. It’s also close to the I-Ride Trolley, making it easy to get to the many
attractions and eateries lining I-Drive. Subdued, but well appointed, rooms
offer floor-to-ceiling windows. Some of the pricier rooms are in the Atrium
Tower, where glass elevators climb to the top. Other perks include a fit-
ness center and heated pool. This place is geared to business travelers
and adults without kids in tow.
See map p. 113. 7800 Universal Blvd. (From I-4, take Sand Lake Road/Highway 482
east to Universal, then left.) % 866-864-8627 or 407-355-0550. Fax: 407-355-0504. www.
crowneplazauniversal.com. 400 rooms. Rack rates: $219–$279 double;
$450–$600 suites. Valet parking: $8.50. AE, DISC, MC, V.
Disney’s All-Star Movie Resort
$–$$ Walt Disney World
Kids aren’t the only ones amazed by the, uh, aesthetics of this resort.
When did you last see architecture as inspiring as Goliath-size Dalmatians
leaping from balconies? If you’re not saying, “Oh, brother!” by now you
may enjoy all the larger-than-life versions of a host of other characters
from famous Disney movies (Toy Story, 101 Dalmatians, and Fantasia
among others) that decorate the buildings here, and the low (by Mickey
standards) rates will thrill some travelers. The All-Star Resorts that fol-
lows this listing are pretty much the same, save the theme — expect tiny
(260 sq. ft.) rooms and postage-stamp size bathrooms with few frills but
plenty of families. Either way you’re “on property,” and you’re enjoying the
lowest prices your Mouse money can buy. This All-Star resort has a family-
friendly food court that serves pizza, pasta, sandwiches, salads, burgers,
chicken, and family-dinner platters. Room service is very limited. Each of
the All-Star resorts features a main pool, smaller second pool, toddler pool,
and a very small playground as well as an arcade.
101Chapter 9: Checking In at Orlando’s Best Hotels
See map p. 96. 1991 W. Buena Vista Dr. % 407-934-7639 or 407-939-7000. Fax: 407-
939-7111. www.disneyworld.com. 1,920 units. Rack rates: $77–$131 double. AE,
DC, DISC, MC, V.
Disney’s All-Star Music Resort
$–$$ Walt Disney World
If you insist on staying on Disney property and are on a tight budget, the
rates at the All-Star’s are difficult to beat. But you’d better be prepared for
full-time family togetherness, as the mouse-size rooms mean you’ll be up
close and personal. (They’re about the size of what you get on a cruise
ship if you choose a midprice cabin). And if the idea of residing in build-
ings decorated with immense musical notes and other music-related
motifs doesn’t appeal, head elsewhere.
See map p. 96. 1801 W. Buena Vista Dr. (at World Drive and Osceola Parkway).
% 407-934-7639 or 407-939-6000. Fax: 407-939-7222. www.disneyworld.com. 1,920
units. Rack rates: $77–$131 double. AE, DC, DISC, MC, V.
Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
$–$$ Walt Disney World
Adjacent to the All-Star Music Resort, this 82-acre property is an instant
replay of its sister All-Stars. It draws sports fans looking for a vacation and
visual overload. The buildings feature football (huge helmets protect stair-
wells from rain), baseball, basketball, tennis, and surfing motifs. Amenities
include a brightly decorated food court, very limited room service, baby-
sitting (from an outside service), a guest-services desk (a standard at
Disney resorts), pools, and a video arcade. Like its two siblings (listed pre-
viously), the All-Star Sports Resort is fairly isolated in WDW’s southwest
corner. Renting a car is a far better choice than relying on the Disney
Transportation System if you want to get anywhere quickly.
See map p. 96. 1701 W. Buena Vista Dr. (at World Drive and Osceola Parkway).
% 407-934-7639 or 407-939-5000. Fax: 407-939-7333. www.disneyworld.com. 1,920
units. Rack rates: $77–$131 double. AE, DC, DISC, MC, V.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
$$$–$$$$ Walt Disney World
Disney’s newest arrival offers the exotic atmosphere of an African game
preserve. The rooms follow a kraal (semicircular) design, giving guests a
hit-or-miss view of 130 species of birds and 75 giraffes, gazelles, and other
grazing animals on the 30-acre savanna. The huge picture windows in the
lobby offer similar views, while the interior public areas are adorned with
authentic African artwork and artifacts. The rooms are quite comfortable,
although bathrooms are a bit cramped (a problem with many of Disney’s
properties). Two of the best and most unique restaurants (Jiko and Boma)
are located here. Not surprisingly, this resort is the closest you can stay to
Animal Kingdom, but almost everything else on WDW property is quite
102 Part III: Settling into Orlandoa distance away. And although families appreciate the animals and wide
array of activities for kids (not to mention the bunk beds available in some
rooms and the supervised kids’ club), the more relaxed and sedate nature
of the resort also makes it a good spot for couples. A concierge level is
available.
See map p. 96. 2901 Osceola Pkwy. (west of Buena Vista Drive.) % 407-934-7639 or
407-938-3000. Fax: 407-939-4799. www.disneyworld.com. 1,293 units. Rack rates:
$199–$620 double; $435–$620 concierge; $640–$2,300 suites. AE, DC, DISC, MC, V.
Disney’s Beach Club Resort
$$$$ Walt Disney World
It’s only a brisk walk to Epcot from the Beach Club, which resembles the
grand seaside resorts that once dotted the eastern seaboard around the
turn of the 20th century. The Beach Club’s atmosphere is a bit more casual
than its sister resort (the Yacht Club, listed below) that shares its many
restaurants and recreational facilities. Though still upscale, brightly col-
ored beach umbrellas, seashells, and a casual Cape Cod feel permeate the
resort. Kids love the 3-acre, free-form, sand-bottom swimming pool of
Stormalong Bay, winding its way along the beachfront. Rooms can sleep
up to five, and views range from the pool to the parking lot. The villas,
added in 2002, sleep up to eight. Studios have kitchenettes, while the one
and two bedroom villas have full kitchens, washer/dryers, and whirlpool
baths. All units come with balconies. The BoardWalk, Swan, and Dolphin
resorts are just a short walk across the bridge, adding their own enter-
tainment and dining options to the mix. The proximity to the parks (MGM
and Epcot especially), as well as other resorts, makes it one of the best
upscale destinations at Disney, especially for families.
See map p. 96. 1800 Epcot Resorts Blvd. (Off Buena Vista Dr.) % 407-934-7639 or
407-934-8000. Fax: 407-934-3850. www.disneyworld.com. 583 units, 205 villas.
Rack rates: $294–$680 double; $495–$675 concierge; $495–$2,165 suites; $400–$1,040
villas. AE, DC, DISC, MC, V.
Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
$$$$ Walt Disney World
More than any other Disney property, the BoardWalk Inn appeals to those
looking for a sliver of yesterday. The 1940s “seaside” resort overlooks a
village green and lake. Some of the Cape Cod–style rooms have balconies
(rooms sleep up to five), and the corner units offer a bit more space.
Center rooms on the upper floors facing the lake have the best view of the
nightly fireworks at Epcot. Recreational facilities are extensive and include
two pools set in a lavish Coney Island atmosphere, tennis, fishing, boat-
ing, bike rental, and even a moonlight cruise. The villas sleep up to 12, and
the 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom villas have full kitchens, washer/dryers, and
whirlpool baths. The resort has a quarter-mile boardwalk reminiscent of
those once made popular along the mid-Atlantic seaboard, featuring
shops, restaurants, and street performers, which means you’ll find plenty
103Chapter 9: Checking In at Orlando’s Best Hotels
to do after the sun goes down. Note: Rooms overlooking the boardwalk
have the best views, but they tend to be noisy thanks to the action below.
See map p. 96. 2101 N. Epcot Resorts Blvd. (north of Buena Vista Drive). % 407-934-
7639 or 407-939-5100. Fax: 407-934-5150. www.disneyworld.com. 378 units,
520 villas. Rack rates: $294–$690 double; $435–$690 concierge; $560–$2,095 suites;
$400–$1,970 villas. AE, DC, DISC, MC, V.
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
$$ Walt Disney World
This moderately priced hotel’s amenities may not be quite as extensive as
those at some of Disney’s higher-end properties (or those in the same class
outside the World), but the hotel still offers great value for families.
Grouped into five Caribbean island–themed villages, many of the rooms
offer views out over the beaches and the water. Standard rooms feature
two double beds, small bathrooms, and privacy curtains for a vanity area
with a double sink. The main swimming pool resembles a Spanish-style
fort, and most of the villages have their own basic pool as well. Other
pluses are a nature trail, small aviary, and a picnic area. The hotel also has
a restaurant, as well as a lively market-style food court. The closest park
is the Disney MGM–Studios, though it can take up to 45 minutes to get
there using Disney transportation — it’s probably best to rent a car if you
stay here. Note: When booking, ask for a recently refurbished room.
See map p. 96. 900 Cayman Way (off Buena Vista Drive toward Epcot on Sea Breeze
Drive and Cayman Way). % 407-934-7639 or 407-934-3400. Fax: 407-934-3288. www.
disneyworld.com. 2,112 units. Rack rates: $134–$209 double. AE, DC, DISC, MC, V.
Disney’s Contemporary Resort
$$$–$$$$ Walt Disney World
If location is a priority, the Contemporary has one of the best in the World
because the monorail literally runs through the hotel, allowing you a fast
track to Epcot or the Magic Kingdom. The 15-story, A-frame resort —
Disney’s first in Florida — overlooks the manmade Seven Seas Lagoon and
Bay Lake. The original rooms in this tower were built separately and then
slid into the framework, an unusual process befitting the futuristic archi-
tecture. The separate two-story Garden Wing buildings were added several
years later. Standard rooms are among Disney’s biggest, a plus for fami-
lies. The more expensive Tower rooms (which will undergo renovation
from 2005–2006) have the best views, and the higher floors tend to be qui-
eter. The pool area is virtually a mini water park, and many of Disney’s
watersports options are headquartered here. The hotel offers three restau-
rants, including one of the more-popular character meals (see Chapter 10),
and a health club.
This is the least themed of the expensive Disney resorts, and the décor
scheme could be described as business bland, so if you want an all-Mickey
atmosphere, stay elsewhere.
104 Part III: Settling into OrlandoSee map p. 96. 4600 N. World Dr. % 407-934-7639 or 407-824-1000. Fax: 407-824-3539.
www.disneyworld.com. 1,053 units. Rack rates: $244–$490 double; $405–$2465
concierge; $800–$1,190 suites. AE, DC, DISC, MC, V.
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
$$ Walt Disney World
The spirit of the American Southwest can be felt throughout this moder-
ately priced resort, which has a slightly more upscale feel than others of
its class. Rooms are housed in four- and five-story hacienda-style buildings
with terra-cotta tile roofs and palm-shaded courtyards. Some overlook the
15-acre Golden Lake; the better your view, the higher the price. Rooms fea-
ture two double beds (the décor differs in each section, but the layout is
the same), with a small bathroom and dual vanities set inside a separate
niche. Ninety-nine rooms are specially designed to accommodate travelers
with disabilities, and nearly three-quarters of the rooms are nonsmoking.
If you like to swim, you’ll delight in the Mayan temple–inspired main pool.
Dining options include a restaurant and a food court. The nearest park is
Animal Kingdom, but the Coronado is at the southwest corner of WDW
and a good distance from most other areas in the park.
See map p. 96. 1000 Buena Vista Drive. % 407-934-7639 or 407-939-1000. Fax: 407-
939-1001. www.disneyworld.com. 1,967 units. Rack rates: $134–$209 double;
$290–$1,190 suites. AE, DC, DISC, MC, V.
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
$–$$$ Walt Disney World
This woodsy, 780-acre resort delights campers, but it’s quite a hike from
most of the Disney parks, except the Magic Kingdom (and even it might
feel far away if you use Disney transportation to get there). Even so, you’ll
have more than enough to keep you busy right here. Guests enjoy
extensive recreational facilities, ranging from a riding stable to a nightly
campfire with fishing, biking, and swimming among the offerings. Secluded
campsites offer 110/220-volt outlets, barbecue grills, picnic tables, and
kids’ play areas. Wilderness cabins (actually, they’re cleverly disguised
trailers) can sleep up to six people; they also have living rooms, fully
equipped eat-in kitchens, coffeemakers, hair dryers, and barbecue grills.
Nearby Pioneer Hall plays host to the rambunctious Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical
Revue (see Chapter 24) nightly. The nightly campfire and marshmallow
roast, followed by a Disney movie, shown right in the great outdoors, is a
big hit with families.
Some sites are open to pets (the ones with full hook-ups), at an additional
cost of $3 per site — not per pet — which is less expensive than using the
WDW resort kennel, where you pay $9 per pet.
See map p. 96. 3520 N. Fort Wilderness Trail (located off Vista Boulevard). % 407-934-
7639 or 407-824-2900. Fax: 407-824-3508. www.disneyworld.com. 784 campsites,
408 wilderness cabins. Rack rates: $38–$89 campsites; $234–$339 cabins. AE, DC,
DISC, MC, V.
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