Orlando, Florida, is a dream destination for families from all over the world. With its famous theme parks and attractions, it’s no wonder that finding kid-friendly accommodations is a top priority for visitors. Hotels in Orlando cater specifically to families, offering amenities and experiences that aim to enhance the magic of a child’s vacation.
From themed rooms that let kids slumber in a fantastical world to hotels equipped with elaborate water parks, the city knows how to excite its younger guests. We understand that families come in all shapes and sizes, and Orlando hotels have options to suit every need. Additionally, ease of transportation to and from the parks and other attractions is a critical factor for families, ensuring that the fun is never too far away.
Unique hotel experiences are abound in Orlando, with some properties providing up-close animal encounters or dinner shows that captivate all ages. And because practicality is as important as pleasure, we recognize the significance of value-for-money, room configurations that cater to the varying sizes of families, and dining options that can handle the pickiest of eaters.
Key Takeaways
- Orlando hotels offer a range of child-friendly amenities and experiences.
- Accommodations are designed to cater to families of all sizes and needs.
- Hotels balance unique experiences with practical considerations for family stays.
Top Orlando Hotels for Family Fun
Orlando, a city teeming with theme parks and family-friendly activities, offers an array of hotels crafted with families in mind. We focus on experiences close to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and SeaWorld, ensuring every family can find the perfect home base for their adventure-packed vacation.
Walt Disney World Resort Magic
For an immersive experience, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort captivates with themed rooms and pools. We recommend this resort for its proximity to the parks and the free transportation provided. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is another top pick for us; here, families can wake up to views of giraffes and zebras roaming the savanna.
| Amenities | Disney’s Art of Animation | Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge |
|---|---|---|
| Themes | Animation, Movies | African Wildlife |
| Pools | 3 Themed Pools | Uzima Pool and Samawati Springs |
| Dining | Landscape of Flavors | Boma – Flavors of Africa |
| Transport | Free Disney Shuttle | Complimentary Park Transport |
Universal Orlando Resort Adventures
We favour Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando for its Italian riviera theme and the inclusion of Universal Express Unlimited passes, which allow for skipping the lines at the parks. Meanwhile, Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort offers a retro vibe and convenient access to Volcano Bay water park.
| Hotel Benefits | Loews Portofino Bay Hotel | Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort |
|---|---|---|
| Theme Park Perks | Universal Express Pass | Early Park Admission |
| Themes | Italian Riviera | 50s and 60s Inspired |
| Pools | 3 Themed Pools | 2 Large Pools and Lazy River |
| Transportation | Water Taxis and Shuttles | Shuttle Buses |
Seamless Fun at SeaWorld Orlando
Close to SeaWorld Orlando, Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld provides an on-site water park and is walking distance from the park’s main gates. We often suggest Hilton Grand Vacations at SeaWorld for its spacious rooms and three expansive swimming pools, which are a hit with the kids after a long day at SeaWorld.
| Convenience | Renaissance Orlando | Hilton Grand Vacations |
|---|---|---|
| Pools | Water Park and Pools | 3 Swimming Pools |
| Proximity | Across from SeaWorld | Near SeaWorld Entrance |
| Rooms | Spacious and Modern | Suites with Kitchens |
| Extras | R Aqua Zone | Movie Theater on Site |
When we select the best Orlando resorts for families, we prioritize proximity to theme parks, family-oriented amenities, and unique experiences that cater especially to younger guests. Each of these hotels offers a mix of comfort, convenience, and entertainment, ensuring that family fun continues even after leaving the parks.
Kid-Friendly Amenities in Orlando Hotels
We understand the importance of having a range of amenities at hand to keep our children entertained and happy during a hotel stay. With a focus on water features, entertainment, and dining, we explore the best options available for families.
Exciting Water Features
- Pools: Our choice hotels boast multiple themed pools that are kid-friendly, ranging from zero-entry pools to those with gentle waves.
- Water Park: They come complete with on-site water parks, featuring everything from towering water slides to immersive splash pads for the little ones.
- Lazy River: Each lazy river invites the entire family to relax on a slow, winding float around lush landscapes.
- Splash Pad: Ideal for toddlers, splash pads offer a safe and entertaining water play area that keeps them engaged and cool.
Entertainment for All Ages
- Game Room: We ensure a variety of game rooms are available, packed with arcade classics and the latest video games.
- Activities: Daily organized activities tailored to kids include craft workshops, treasure hunts, and educational talks.
Dining Options for the Whole Family
- Menu variety is crucial, which is why our highlighted hotels offer:
- Children’s Menus: These cater to young taste buds and provide nutritious options.
- Family-Friendly Dining: Restaurants with settings and themes designed to captivate children’s imaginations.
Accommodation Types for Every Family
In Orlando, we find a variety of accommodation types designed to meet the diverse needs of families. From spacious suites to cost-effective options, we focus on the comfort and happiness of your loved ones.
Luxurious Family Suites and Villas
We offer luxurious family suites that cater to large families searching for a comfortable and upscale experience. Our suites are typically equipped with fully equipped kitchens or kitchenettes, ideal for those who prefer homemade meals. For even more space and privacy, we provide stunning villas that come with their own private amenities:
- Private pools
- Multiple bedrooms
- Full-size living areas
Our villas set the stage for a memorable stay, giving you the feel of a home away from home.
Comfortable Budget-Friendly Options
Understanding the importance of staying within a budget, we present a range of comfortable yet affordable accommodation options for your family. Even our budget-friendly selections can accommodate larger families, and they often include convenient features like:
- Kitchenette for preparing simple meals
- Separate sleeping and living areas
These options ensure that every family can enjoy a comfortable stay without compromising on the essential amenities.
Convenience and Transportation
In planning a family vacation to Orlando, we understand that easy access to parks and reliable transportation options are crucial for a stress-free trip.
Proximity to Major Attractions
The location of your hotel is pivotal when visiting Orlando with kids. A shorter distance to the attractions means less time commuting and more time enjoying the parks. Here’s how some of the best hotels measure up:
- Walt Disney World: Hotels on the resort’s property, such as the Contemporary Resort, offer the closest proximity, often within walking distance or a short Monorail ride.
- Universal Studios: Some hotels, like Loews Royal Pacific Resort, are less than a 5-minute drive away, while others offer water taxis that take you right to the entrance.
Hotel Shuttle Services
Transporting your family to and from the theme parks can be seamless with the right shuttle services. Many Orlando hotels provide this convenience, so let’s review:
- Shuttle Service: Complimentary shuttles are a common amenity. For instance, the Hyatt Regency Orlando offers frequent shuttles to Universal Studios and SeaWorld.
- Free Transportation: Select Disney Resorts, such as Disney’s Pop Century Resort, include free transportation to all Disney parks and Disney Springs, using buses, boats, or the Skyliner.
Unique Orlando Hotel Experiences
When we talk about family-friendly hotels in Orlando, we’re often referring to those providing exceptional views and exclusive themed accommodations that enhance the entire vacation experience. From luxury amenities to engaging activities, these hotels know how to cater to families.
Resorts with a View
- Cabana Bay Beach Resort: At this vibrant, retro-themed resort, we can relax with views of the iconic Volcano Bay water theme park. It’s not just a view; it’s a backdrop to our adventure, complete with a winding river and the excitement of a water playground.
- Floridays Resort Orlando: Overlooking picturesque lakes and a sprawling, tropical landscape, our stay here includes serene views that are a respite from the thrill of the theme parks.
- Four Seasons Resort Orlando: Here, we can indulge in views of the resort’s own pristine golf course. For those of us who love a luxury vista, the panoramic scenes of manicured greens are both calming and impressive.
Exclusive Themed Accommodations
- Cabana Bay Beach Resort: Our families can enjoy the exclusivity of 60s-inspired rooms with special touches like Zest soap and VO5 amenities, ensuring every element of our stay is on theme.
- Floridays Resort Orlando: Beyond the usual comfort, their themed rooms add an element of delight for our younger travelers.
- Four Seasons Resort Orlando: As the pinnacle of luxury, the resort’s themed suites transport us into a lavish world that’s more than just a place to sleep—it’s an integral part of our Orlando experience.
| Activities & Amenities | Resort Name |
|---|---|
| Fireworks Views | Four Seasons Resort Orlando |
| Dive-In Movies | Cabana Bay Beach Resort |
| On-site Golf Course | Four Seasons Resort Orlando |
| Bowling Alley | Cabana Bay Beach Resort |
Themed rooms and unforgettable views are just the beginning, with dive-in movies and a bowling alley available to us at certain resorts, while another impresses us with views of nightly fireworks displays from the comfort of our room. Each resort offers a distinct way to enhance our Orlando stay, ensuring that memories made go beyond the theme parks.
Practical Considerations for Families
When planning a family vacation to Orlando, it’s crucial to account for both comfort and cost-effectiveness. We want to ensure that our stay enriches our experience without overextending our budget.
Maximizing Your Budget
To make the most of our money, we consider hotels offering packages that include perks such as Free Transportation to local attractions, complimentary breakfast, and FastPass+ options. This not only saves us on transportation and meal costs but also maximizes our time spent enjoying the parks rather than waiting in lines.
- Free Transportation: Seek hotels with shuttle services to theme parks.
- FastPass+: Look for lodging that partners with Disney for FastPass+ benefits.
Ensuring Comfort and Connectivity
The comfort of our hotel stay directly impacts our vacation experience. Family-friendly options often feature rooms with ample space, multiple bathrooms, and child-friendly amenities. It’s also important for us to have reliable WiFi to stay connected and plan our days effectively.
- Bathroom: Make sure rooms have adequate bathroom facilities for the whole family.
- WiFi: Confirm the hotel provides free, robust WiFi for guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
When planning a family vacation to Orlando, knowing which hotels offer the best kid-friendly amenities is crucial. From water parks to beach access and Disney magic, we cover the essentials to help you make an informed decision.
What are the top-rated Orlando hotels with kid-friendly water parks?
The Grove Resort & Water Park Orlando and the CoCo Key Hotel and Water Resort are highly regarded for their expansive, on-site water parks. These parks feature multiple slides, lazy rivers, and activities catered to children of all ages.
Which Orlando family resorts offer the best beach access for children?
Margaritaville Resort Orlando and Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa offer excellent beach access and family-oriented activities. Their sandy areas and gentle waters are ideal for kids seeking a beach experience.
How does the Holiday Inn Resort Orlando cater to families with kids?
The Holiday Inn Resort Orlando Suites – Waterpark is designed for family fun, offering a water park, live entertainment, and kid-friendly suites. Their activity center and poolside games keep children entertained throughout their stay.
What amenities should families look for when choosing a Disney hotel in Orlando?
Families should look for Disney hotels that offer character dining experiences, family suites, complimentary transportation to the parks, and themed pools. Disney’s Art of Animation Resort and Disney’s Port Orleans Resort are excellent examples with amenities that enhance the magical experience.
At what age can one legally rent a hotel room in Orlando, and are there kid-friendly options?
The legal age to rent a hotel room in Orlando is typically 18, but some hotels may require an individual to be 21. For families, hotels like Nick Hotel offer kid-friendly accommodations with characters and themed rooms that appeal to younger guests.
Which Universal Orlando hotel offers the best experience for families with children?
Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort is fantastic for families, featuring a retro theme, family suites, and direct access to Volcano Bay water park. Its bowling alley and pool activities are tailored to entertain guests of all ages.
