Orlando hotels for every traveller

For the best of Universal Parks:

Universal Helios Grand Hotel

Spend sunny days and sparkling nights at this five-star hotel with its own entrance to Universal Epic Universe.

The lowdown… Stay as close as you can to Universal Epic Universe and make the most of benefits like Early Park Admission (valid theme park admission required).

Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel is inspired by Greek mythology. Living up to its name, the property is full of grand features like a sunlight-flooded lobby with giant windows overlooking the waters of Celestial Park and a lagoon pool that would make Poseidon proud. Step into Orlando’s newest theme park through a dedicated Universal Epic Universe entrance and spend the day thinking about nothing but which ride or snack to take on next as you make use of charge-to-your room privileges and complimentary merchandise delivery service (restrictions apply). The other Universal Orlando Resort theme parks are all accessible via a shuttle service.

Insider’s tip… Head up to the rooftop lounge, Bar Helios, for some of the best views of Universal Epic Universe. Kick back after a full-on day of fun and see the park light up like a constellation as the sun sets.

Hard Rock Hotel® at Universal Orlando™

Enjoy a rock ‘n’ roll holiday in an epic location, on the doorstep of Universal.

The lowdown… Feel the rhythm flow throughout this music-themed, award-winning, five star hotel.

From here you can walk to Universal Studios™ and skip queues with your ticket. Hop on the complimentary shuttle bus to Universal’s Island of Adventures™ or Universal’s Volcano Bay™. When you’re not playing in the parks, make a splash in the pool and listen to underwater tunes whilst you swim. Take part in a ping-pong tournament, or swing your hips during a hula-hoop contest. To feel like the superstar you are, rent out a poolside cabana and rock your oversized shades.

Insider’s tip… Put on your blue suede shoes for Velvet sessions, on the last Thursday of every month. Dance away to famous musicians in concert and sip on party cocktails for a legendary night out.

To feel like the superstar you are, rent out a poolside cabana and rock your oversized shades.

For the best of Disney:

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort Riverside

Lean into a relaxed, Louisianan sway of life at this waterside hotel in Disney Springs Resort Area.

The lowdown… Unwind in a rural setting inspired by southern charm, then board a boat to Disney Springs where you can shop and dine to your heart’s content.

Choose to stay in the columned mansions of Magnolia Bend or the quaint cottages of Alligator Bayou. When you’re not making use of the shuttle services to Walt Disney World Resort’s theme parks, dip into one of five pools or roast marshmallows on Ol' Man Island. Spend an evening savouring Cajun delights at Boatwright's Dining Hall and Yehaa Bob Jackson’s boogie-woogie music at River Roost Lounge. You can also catch the scent of magnolias and roses as you walk along the oak tree-lined Sassagoula River towards Disney Port Orleans Resort French Quarter, where jazz musicians and beignets await.

Insider’s tip… If you’re travelling with your own princess, book one of the Royal Guest Rooms. These special rooms feature regal touches like gold-framed princess portraits and headboards with ‘fireworks’ light displays.

Disney Beach Club Resort

Surround yourself with coastal elegance at this New England-inspired resort within walking distance of Epcot.

The lowdown… Pack your finest flip-flops and sunhats for Disney Beach Club Resort, where laid-back charm meets good old-fashioned fun.

Modelled on the late 19th Century seaside resorts of New England, this sprawling hotel on Crescent Lake boasts plenty of pools, palm trees and beach loungers. Take breaks from swimming in the sand-bottomed pool and floating on the lazy river to visit Beaches & Cream Soda Shop, where the milkshakes could be mistaken for meals. Then walk to Epcot for a jaunt around World Showcase or board a boat to Disney’s Hollywood Studios where jedis train and toys come to life. When you want to visit Walt Disney World Resort’s other parks, you can take one of the complimentary, air-conditioned shuttle buses.

Insider’s tip… If meet and greets are a top priority during your trip, skip waiting in park lines and plan a character breakfast instead. Book Minnie’s Beach Bash Breakfast to meet Minnie Mouse and some of her friends at Cape May Cafe in Disney Beach Club Resort. Bring an autograph book and an appetite – there’s a buffet including Mickey waffles.

For water park magic:

The Grove Resort & Waterpark

Make a splash at this hotel and dive into its exclusive water park.

The lowdown… Plunge into the Surfari Water Park, from its thrilling and twisting slides, to the find-your-balance Flowrider® Double surf simulator. Take your little ones to the kids’ pool, for squirting fountains and slippery two-story slides. Then glide along the lazy river on a rubber ring, unwinding in the sunshine. Rent your own cabana, cool down with icy drinks in the shade. When you’re not playing in the pool, the Walt Disney World theme parks are just minutes away. Shoppers can get their kicks at the nearby premium outlet shopping. If you venture a little further, you’ll reach International Drive.

Insider’s tip… Head to Lake Austin Pier for sweeping views of the nature reserve – home to an abundance of wildlife and lakeside activities.

For the family:

Sheraton Vistana Villages

Orlando is made for family-fun trips, so plan a stay to match your family’s needs.

The lowdown… Take a break at this condo-style accommodation on International Drive. Enjoy its tropical setting, with an array of activities to keep everyone smiling – from tye-dye classes, to tennis matches and a mermaid academy. The pool with the fountains and pirate ship, will entertain children whilst adults can enjoy aqua aerobics or relax poolside. With Walt Disney World just around the corner, hop on the complimentary shuttle for magical family moments. Venture to Universal Orlando Resort™ for more theme park thrills, or wander along I-Drive for crazy golf and epic foodie feasts.

Insider’s tip… Drop the little ones at the Kids’ Night Out. They can get crafty, watch movies and make new friends, whilst you savour a leisurely resort dinner for two.

For couples: Rosen Plaza

Enjoy a retreat where every night is date night.

The lowdown… Kick it with a location in the heart of the I-Drive action. With theme parks on your door step and water parks just around the corner, spend thrilling days out together. When you’re both weary, return to unwind in the blissful waterfall whirlpool spa with a massage. Then stay in for a bite and lounge drinks. Feeling energetic? Step out to Pointe Orlando, soak up the lively atmosphere for a day or just catch the buzz of a night out. Choose from improv comedy nights to romantic fine-dining, or dance until the early hours with cocktails and live music.

Insider’s tip… Tuck into the ultimate brunch at 39 Poolside and Grill. Hit the build-your-own Bloody Mary station, chow down on pancake stacks and listen to live music.

For golfing stays:

Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World

Soak up the sun and tee-off at the Tranquilo Golf Club.

The lowdown… The Sunshine State is renowned for its golfing greens and Orlando is no exception. Set in the magic of Walt Disney World, play days away on the 16-acre Championship golf course. Tom Fazio designed the course merging a wildlife sanctuary with a luscious golfing landscape. The theme of luxury continues throughout the resort. Treat yourself with an array of treatments in the world-class spa and explore the vast glistening pool areas. The kids will have fun of their own at the complimentary kids’ camp. Head to the 17th floor rooftop restaurant CAPA, for gourmet cuisine and handcrafted cocktails, accompanied by mesmerising views.

Insider’s tip… Resort guests can book tee-times for a swing on the lavish landscape. Take a break from rounds at the clubhouse for a taste of Cuban-American dishes and Hemingway Daquiris.

For luxury:

Waldorf Astoria Orlando

Indulge in a Floridian five star utopia.

The lowdown… If you’re looking for an utterly luxurious stay, look no further. Experience deluxe accommodation in the ultimate location – think opulent poolside cabanas, soothing spa therapies, tantalising cocktails and delectable dining. Take part in weekend morning yoga classes, take a swing around the Championship golf course designed by Rees Jones or top up your tan by the sparkling pool. If it’s even possible to have too much pampering, take day trips to the nearby Disney parks, venture out to Universal Studios™ or find your way along International Drive for sensational shopping.

Insider’s tip… Feel your taste buds tingle during a visit to Bull & Bear®. Enjoy mouth-watering dishes and sublime cocktails. At night, take a seat by the window to watch fireworks soar through the sky from Disney’s Epcot.

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