You are spoiled for choice when you visit Orlando, Florida. With pristine beaches, a thriving nightlife, and of course, several world-famous theme parks all in the area, you will have more to do than you can handle. The best way to enjoy the most of what Orlando has to offer on your vacation is to select a great base of operations.
You should take downtime on your vacation, and the best way to take that downtime is poolside at your own resort. Many resorts in Orlando even come with their own waterpark, meaning that you can have the downtime that you need, and your kids can continue to enjoy themselves on slides, splash parks, and of course, the pools.
Whether you are looking to spend as little as possible or looking to get the most value out of your trip, these top 10 amazing and affordable hotels and resorts should be on your radar.
1. Westgate Palace Resort
This resort is close to all the action and is just a short distance away from Universal Orlando Resort.
If you have never been, then know that Orlando hotels commonly pull out all the stops. They don’t just want to provide a bed and a shuttle. They go above and beyond and offer you everything you need to enjoy a fantastic holiday right on-site. Westgate Palace Resort is no different and offers newly renovated villas, an on-site marina, sports facilities, and incredible pools while only being 2 miles away from Universal Studios.
2. B Hotel Resort & Spa
B Resort and Spa is a contemporary, budget option that is the only AVEDA lifestyle spa partner in the Orlando area.
Looking for a great spa experience while you relax in-between trips to the big theme parks? Look no further than the only AVEDA lifestyle spa partner in Orlando, B Hotel Resort & Spa. You’ll be able to treat yourself to an incredible facial treatment or enjoy a massage. When you are done being pampered, you will have a great pool or can retreat to your private balcony for some peace and quiet.
3. Drury Inn and Suites Orlando
Drury Inn and Suites Orlando is an official Universal Orlando Resort hotel partner and offers budget accommodation and free shuttle service to Universal Orlando.
If you don’t want the fanfare as much as you want great complimentary amenities, then Drury Inn is the place for you. As an official hotel, you will get free shuttle services to and from Universal Orlando Resort and be able to buy tickets to the park in the lobby, allowing you to skip the lines and go straight on in. If you want to save and get the most value for your booking, then take advantage of the free breakfast and the 5:30 Kickback benefits.
4. The Pointe Orlando
The Pointe Orlando is ideal for groups of young adults looking for an affordable excursion that isn’t too far from Walt Disney World Resort.
This great value hotel offers free shuttle services to all the top destinations and free on-site parking. It is ideal for those looking for an affordable location near all the action as it also offers great facilities and amenities like a bar and grill so that you can enjoy on-site parties and great meals without having to venture too far.
This hotel only offers suites as well, so you will get more space on average than other options on this list.
5. Hyatt Regency in Orlando
This famed resort is pet-friendly, and with 1639 rooms and suites, there is accommodation to suit all types of trips and all types of travelers.
You can also find this massive resort on International Drive. Not only are there 1639 rooms, but there are also 192 suites that vary in size from 650-square-feet to 2068-square-feet, making it the perfect destination for all types of travelers regardless of whether you are a solo traveler or a huge family.
This resort offers it all. You will be able to choose from 7 different eateries and restaurants, 3 pools, waterslides, hot tubs, private cabanas, and more. The resort has a spa and fitness center and is pet friendly, with dog stations throughout the property.
For more luxury, book a Regency Club Room and have access to the Regency Club Lounge, where you can eat breakfast and light bites, including desert throughout the day. This resort does not, however, have shuttle services, nor does it offer park partnership deals. This makes it better for those in the area who aren’t planning on committing their entire trip to Disney World or Universal Orlando outside of a day trip or two.
6. Loews Sapphire Falls Resort
This Caribbean-inspired resort offers 1000 guest rooms and suites available and is even pet-friendly.
This pet-friendly hotel has only been around since 2016, but it is a favorite amongst locals. Not only will you have access to a variety of Caribbean-themed activities and a stunning pool and waterfall experience, but you will also be able to benefit from the Loews Loves Kids program, which gives kids the chance to have fun adventures together and gives parents some time to themselves.
As an official Universal hotel, you will even be able to get perks when you book here. For example, you can get early access to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
7. Aloft Orlando
This resort is near the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing arts and comes with a variety of essential amenities, including a splash pool.
This trendy choice is a great option if you want to be within the downtown area and want a full docket of things to do. By choosing this hotel, not only will you be able to visit the big theme parks for a day’s visit, but you will also have plenty of dining and shopping opportunities right at your door. You won’t get bored or burned out here, and instead of a great balance of all the wonderful things to do in Orlando.
If you are in the area for the theme parks, however, don’t worry, as you aren’t too far from the action and can save time by booking tickets in advance.
8. Cabana Bay Beach Resort
This resort is located in Universal Orlando and offers suites with kitchenettes and a food court to help families save on meals in style.
You will find the Cabana Bay Beach Resort right in Universal Studios, making it perfect if you want to be in the heart of the action. Though it will be more expensive due to its location, there are many great, unexpected ways to help you cut costs. One of the best ways, for example, is to take full use of the kitchenette in your room. Cabana Bay is the only hotel and resort in Universal that offers kitchenettes, so you can fuel up for less and eat healthier, too!
You will also have access to many on-site activities as well, including a lazy river, pools, and even a bowling alley. Since you are already in the resort, you can also time it so that you go during slow periods in the day.
9. Staybridge Suites Orlando Lake Buena Vista
This resort is ideal for those in the area for extended periods of time and offers a variety of social hour features.
Staybridge Suites Orlando Lake Buena Vista is a Walt Disney World Good Neighbor Hotel, meaning it offers free shuttle services to the Disney parks and the ability to buy tickets right in the lobby to skip the lines and the crowds. Keep an eye out and ask if there are any promotions as well, like upgrades to early access, so that you can get even more out of your stay.
When you need downtime, make sure you check out their pool and hot tubs!
10. Hampton Inn & Suites Orlando
This outpost hotel may be more geared towards those who are in Orlando for the city but is still a great budget option for those going to Disney.
There are two big benefits to booking a hotel that isn’t on the doorstep of the big theme parks, or alternatively in the theme parks themselves. By booking outside of the immediate theme park area, you can enjoy far more things to do at great rates. These hotels are also less likely to be booked up months in advance, so give the Hampton Inn and Suites a try for your budget-friendly Disney trip.
Warren James is the lead editor for Diving Daily. Warren has written for many publications including the New York Daily News, Vanity Fair and Yahoo. Warren is based in New York city and covers issues affecting local communities. In addition to following the day-to-day life of the Big Apple, Warren also has a passion for martial arts.
