Orlando is one of the most visited destinations in the United States for being the city where the famous Disney World and Universal Studios theme parks are located. When planning a trip to the theme parks one of the important things is to choose where to stay in Orlando so you can get around easily and have an amazing vacation.
Where to stay in Orlando?
If you’re visiting Orlando’s theme parks, there are basically 3 options when it comes to accommodation: staying inside Disney World Resort, staying inside Universal or staying outside the theme parks.
1. BEST HOTELS INSIDE DISNEY WORLD
Disney has many hotels to choose from. Thy are classified as: value (USD$120 – $250), moderate (USD$250 – $400) or deluxe (USD$ 400 – $700). All the lodging options in Disney can be found at Disney World website. Each hotel is unique and has a theme, like Disney’s Art of Animation Resort where rooms are themed to Lion King, Finding Nemo, and Little Mermaid.
On the other hand, there are other hotels that are within the Disney World Resort and have the same benefits as any Disney hotel but belong to big hotel chains such as Wyndham or Hilton and can be booked in sites like booking.com.
Recommended hotels in Disney World:
*all prices shown are from rooms with two double beds (room capacity: 4 adults).
- Disney’s All-Star (USD $120-$250) The cheapest option inside Disney
One of the best Disney Value Resorts you can find inside Disney World Resort are the Disney’s All-Star which are divided into: All-Star Movies (movie theme), , All-Star Music (music theme) and All-Star Sports (sports theme). They are basic hotels (motel type) but are decorated with Disney characters and have all the benefits of staying inside Disney hotels. Prices may vary greatly depending on the date of your visit but in general it is quite economical for groups of 4 people.
Check prices and photos of this hotel on Booking
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge (USD$400-$700) A unique experience in Disney World
One of the luxury hotels within Disney that offers a unique experience is the hotel located inside Animal Kingdom Park. The rooms offer views of the hotel’s safari, where guests can see animals like giraffes and zebras. The hotel features several restaurants serving African cuisine, pools, and recreational areas. It is an ideal option for those looking for a unique and relaxing experience at Disney.
Check prices and photos of this hotel on Booking
- Disney’s Art Of Animation Resort (USD$200-$350) Accesible and fun
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is a Disney-themed hotel that celebrates the art of animation. It is inspired by classic Disney movies like The Lion King, Finding Nemo, Cars, and The Little Mermaid. The rooms are decorated with elements from the films, and some areas of the resort feature large figures of characters like Simba or Buzz Lightyear.
Additionally, it has a large Finding Nemo-inspired themed pool and several quick-service restaurants. It is a fun and family-friendly hotel, ideal for those seeking an immersive experience at more affordable prices within Disney World.
Check prices and photos of this hotel in Booking
- Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort (USD$800-$1800) Luxury inside Disney
Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort is a luxury hotel that combines exclusivity with the magic of Disney. Located within the resort, it offers elegant rooms and suites with spectacular views of the parks, a golf course, and a spa. Guests enjoy high-end dining experiences, multiple pools, and exclusive activities like access to a private water park. Additionally, the resort offers direct transportation to Disney parks, making it ideal for those seeking a premium experience.
Check prices and photos of this hotel on Booking
- Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista (USD $180-$ 300)
Another of the hotels you can find in Lake Buena Vista is the Hilton. It is a modern hotel, and has 7 restaurants and 2 outdoor pools. It is also connected to Disney Springs, which is Disney’s shopping center, full of shops and restaurants.
Click here to see more details of the hotel on Booking.
Advantages of staying inside Disney World:
✓ Early access to Fast Pass+ reservation up to 60 days before your arrival (compared to 30 days for people not staying at Disney hotels)
✓ Complimentary transportation to Disney parks. All hotels in Disney have free shuttles to all Disney World parks, which is ideal if you don’t have a car.
✓ Extra Magic Hours. All Disney hotel guests can enjoy extra time at one of the theme parks each day.
✓ Magic Band. All Disney guests get a bracelet that is used to enter the theme parks, unlock your hotel room, buy food and other services.
Disadvantages of staying inside Disney World:
✘ The price. Hotels within Disney are expensive.
✘ Paid parking in value and moderate hotels. If you have a car you’ll have to pay extra for hotel parking.
2. BEST HOTELS INSIDE UNIVERSAL STUDIOS
Like Disney, Universal Studios also offers hotels within its resort and these have their benefits. Universal Studios has only 2 parks (not counting the water park), which can be visited in 1 or 2 days. So staying inside Universal is not the best option unless you only plan to visit Universal theme parks.
Recommended hotels in Universal Studios:
*all prices shown are from rooms with two double beds (room capacity: 4 adults).
- Universal’s Endless Summer (USD $150 – $330)
A beach-themed hotel with excellent value for money. It offers all the benefits of Universal hotels, except for the Universal Express Pass. The rooms are modern and simple, with options for standard rooms and family suites, ideal for larger groups. The resort features a pool, restaurants, and easy access to Universal theme parks, including free transportation.
Click here to see more details of the hotel on Booking.
- Universal’s Cabana Bay (USD $220 – $380)
A hotel located right in front of Volcano Bay, Universal Studios’ newest water park. It has a retro theme from the 50s and 60s and is very colorful. The hotel features pools, bowling alleys, and restaurants. It offers all the benefits of Universal hotels, except for the Universal Express Pass.
Click here to see more details of the hotel on Booking.
- Hard Rock Hotel (USD $ 380 – $ 500)
A luxury hotel with pure rock vibes. Inspired by the world of rock, this hotel offers a luxurious atmosphere with a beach-style pool, restaurant, and live music. Guests enjoy early access to the parks and exclusive benefits like the Universal Express (skip the lines).
Click here to see more details of the hotel on Booking.
Advantages of staying inside Universal:
✓ Free transportation to Universal parks.
✓ Early entry to Universal Studios to access The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Universal’s Volcano Bay.
✓ In selected hotels you receive a free Universal Express Unlimited pass that allows you to avoid regular lines at attractions.
Disadvantages of staying inside Universal:
✘ The price. Like Disney hotels, the price of hotels inside Universal is high.
3. BEST HOTELS IN ORLANDO OUTSIDE DISNEY AND UNIVERSAL:
In addition to accommodation within the parks, there are many great hotels, hostels and apartments outside them. The great benefit is that the prices of accommodation outside the parks are much lower. There are several areas that are close to the parks and are the most convenient to find accommodation.
- Lake Buena Vista is the area where the parks are located, so any hotel here will be very close to the parks. In addition there are many shops, restaurants and other services.
- Celebration is a small area designed by Disney World. You will find houses, shops, lodging and restaurants.
- Kissimmee is the area with the cheapest accommodation and is also very close to the parks.
Best hotels in Orlando near the parks:
*all prices shown are from rooms with two double beds (room capacity: 4 adults).
- Rodeway Inn Maingate (USD $60 – $80) The cheapest hotel close to Disney
It is a classic motel with rooms arranged around the pool. The hotel is located on the highway in Celebration so it is very close to Disney parks and several shops and restaurants. They offer free transfer to Disney parks at 8 AM and hotel parking is free. I stayed at this hotel 3 nights and honestly the rooms are a bit old but the price is very cheap and the location of the hotel is great if you have a car. The price includes a basic breakfast of coffee, bagels and cereals (don’t expect quality).
Click here to see more details of the hotel on Booking.
- Motel 6 Orlando (USD $70 – $150)
A few meters from the Rodeway Inn you can find Motel 6 which has the same style but with slightly more modern rooms. It’s an affordable and basic option for those looking for a place to sleep without many additional amenities. The rooms are simple, with the essentials: beds, private bathroom, TV, and air conditioning. The hotel is well-located, close to Disney theme parks, making it a convenient choice for those who just need a place to rest after a day at the parks.
Click here to see more details of the hotel on Booking.
- SonoHotel Orlando (USD $80 – $150)
This hotel is located very close to Universal Studios theme parks. It offers free shuttle service to the parks at scheduled times and free parking. The location is convenient, with easy access to International Drive, an area full of restaurants, shops, and entertainment.
The rooms are modern, functional, and well-equipped, with basic amenities. It’s a convenient and affordable option compared to more expensive hotels in the area.
Click here to see more details of the hotel on Booking.
An affordable and convenient hotel located near Universal Studios and Disney theme parks. It offers simple yet comfortable rooms equipped with the basics: beds, private bathroom, TV, free Wi-Fi, and air conditioning.
Additionally, it features an outdoor pool, gym, and a complimentary continental breakfast. While it doesn’t offer luxury, its location is one of its biggest advantages, being close to numerous restaurants, shops, and attractions on International Drive. Ideal for those who prefer hassle-free and budget-friendly accommodation.
Click here to see more details of the hotel on Booking.
- Homewood Suites by Hilton Orlando (USD$150-$320)
Homewood Suites by Hilton Orlando is a mid-range hotel with spacious rooms that include a fully equipped kitchen, living area, and workspace, making it a convenient option for long stays or families. Additionally, the hotel offers free Wi-Fi, a daily buffet breakfast, and an outdoor pool. It is located near International Drive and the Universal theme parks.
It’s an ideal choice for those seeking more independent and spacious accommodations, with services beyond those of a traditional hotel, but without the high prices of Disney hotels.
Check prices and photos of this hotel on Booking
Advantages of staying outside the parks:
✓ The price. Hotels outside the parks are much cheaper.
✓ Despite not being inside Disney, some hotels offer free transfer to the parks.
Disadvantages of staying outside the parks:
✘ Not having extra time in Disney parks or Universal.
✘ You can’t get early access to Fast Pass+ reservation. The regular time to book the FP is up to 30 days before your arrival.
✘ Not having the free transportation to the parks. The alternative is to go in Uber, Lyft, or rent a car. The price for parking in the parks is USD$25 per day.
Should you stay inside or outside Disney World?
Both options have their benefits. Staying inside a Disney World hotel makes the experience of visiting the parks even more magical because each hotel is set with movie characters, the staff is super friendly and Disney services are great. It is the best option if you can spend money in one of these hotels.
Staying outside the parks is great too because you can find amazing hotels with noticeably lower prices. Tickets to the theme parks are quite expensive and staying outside Disney or Universal saves some money.
No matter which hotel you choose, visiting the theme parks in Orlando is an incredible experience and you will have fun wherever you sleep.
I hope this information helps you choose where to stay in Orlando! If you have questions please leave your comment below.
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