Orlando Family Hotels – Tips and Recommendations
- When choosing a hotel location in Orlando, there are several options. The Lake Buena Vista area is ideal because it provides easy access to the three main theme parks: Disney World, SeaWorld, and Universal Orlando. International Drive is home to many restaurants and attractions, which makes it a popular place to stay. It isn’t far from many of the large theme parks, and a trolley runs along the length for easy accessibility.
- If you are flying into Orlando, save time and money by skipping the rental car. There are many ride-sharing programs available, and most hotels provide courtesy transportation to the theme parks. If you are staying at a hotel inside the theme park, you probably won’t have to leave the property until it’s time to head to the airport and go home.
- Most people end up walking anywhere from 5-10 miles when spending the entire day at a theme park. Pack comfortable shoes and make sure to bring plenty of food and water. Don’t forget sunscreen and hats to protect you and your kids from the hot Florida sun.
- Booking.com usually has the best hotel deals. Note: we do earn a small commission when you book through them. We set prices usually for a family with two adults and one child, to make pricing more realistic for a family.
Check out our updated Orlando – Family Travel Guide.
The 10 Best Hotels for Families in Orlando, Florida
Sheraton Orlando Lake Buena Vista Resort, budget
This resort hotel is just 10 minutes from Disney World and has a lot of fun amenities on the property. Kids can swim in two outdoor pools or play on the water slide. There is also a games room and transfer service available to take you to the nearby Disney parks.
Universal Studios Orlando is 8 miles from the resort and about 4.5 miles to SeaWorld. On-site restaurants make this the perfect place to stay and in-room refrigerators make it easy to store snacks for hungry kids.
Holiday Inn Orlando SW, budget
This centrally located hotel puts you close to theme parks and is also just a 5 minute walk to the Old Town amusement park. Two pools will keep everyone busy and happy while on-site restaurants mean you won’t have to go far for food.
You can even get bunk beds for the kids and children eat free with adults. The game room and laundry service makes it easy to take care of your entire family’s needs. After a long day, entertain the kids at the playground or in the kids theater.
Marriott’s Harbour Lake, mid-range 
These family villas are spacious enough for the entire family to spread out and get comfortable. Two bedroom villas can sleep up to 7 people and they also have a separate living and dining area along with a kitchen. Cribs can be requested and there are many fun activities such as mini-golf, basketball, and table tennis.
The pirate-themed pool features water slides and cannons, making it a destination in itself. Enjoy the balmy weather outside at the barbecue and picnic areas or head inside to the game room. Adults can unwind at the spa with a hot tub and massages.
Grand Orlando Resort at Celebration, mid-range 
This beautiful 20 acre resort has a lake, golf course, dining, and shopping. There are three pools and one has a 40-foot water slide along with a playground, beach volleyball court, two tennis courts, and a game room.
Enjoy Mediterranean cuisine at the on-site restaurant or head to the pool bar for pub food and cocktails. For convenience, take the complimentary shuttle to Walt Disney World and then relax in one of the two hot tubs after a long day. Laundry facilities are also available and the gift shop is there for last minute souvenirs and gifts.
Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Orlando Resort, mid-range
Located on International Drive which is at the heart of the theme parks in Orlando, this hotel provides free Wifi, continental breakfast, and many other amenities. The outdoor heated pool is available and rooms are furnished with a refrigerator, coffee machine, and microwave.
Family and oversized rooms are available if you need more space and cribs can be requested for younger guests. A coin-operated laundry on-site means you won’t have to pack as many clothes and you can find a local supermarket to buy snacks to fuel your day.
Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center, luxury 
This large resort on 63 acres is one of the largest in the state. The outdoor water play area and water park is ideal for families while an adult-only pool allows parents to relax after the kids have gone to bed.
Nine restaurants mean you will never eat the same meal twice. You can even take care of any personal errands or just get pampered at the beauty shop and barber. Babysitting services are available and there’s a game room and bookstore to check out too.
As part of the Loews group, this hotel is located right on the grounds of Universal Orlando so you won’t have to go far. The Italian theme means cypress trees and cobblestone streets to make you feel like you’re in Europe.
There are three themed swimming pools to choose from and a supervised children’s activity center. 8 different restaurants and lounges allow for interesting family meals and relaxation for the adults in the evening. Guests also get early admission to certain resorts, and complimentary water taxis or shuttle buses.
Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort, luxury
This hotel is a must-visit destination that will make it feel like you’re staying at a theme park. The large swimming pool covers nearly a half acre and has 12 waterfalls, a water slide, swim-through caves, and a rope bridge. The lush property even has a private lake, tennis courts, golf course, rock climbing, and more.
Kids can take part in the Camp Hyatt kids’ program with activities like nature hikes, bike rides, scavenger hunts, and marshmallow roasting in the evening. Parents can enjoy a couples treatment at the Marilyn Monroe spa. Multiple dining options and a market on site with coffee and baked goods makes it perfect for late night snacks.
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, luxury
Experience the magic of Disney while staying in this incredible resort. Family suites can accommodate up to 6 people and are themed around favorite movies. Rooms also have a kitchenette, living room, and 2 bathrooms so family’s never have to fight over space.
The pools are also incredible, with one of the largest resort pools and a play area for younger children. Two additional pools are inspired by Cars and The Little Mermaid. While the kids swim, adults can enjoy beverages and snacks at the pool bar.
Cabana Bay Beach Resort, luxury
This resort at Universal Orlando has retro-style rooms and suites that are perfect for families. With iconic 1950s and 60s style architecture, you can relax in spacious rooms with mini kitchens and compartmentalized bathrooms so multiple people can get ready at the same time.
Outside there’s a pool with a water slide, cabanas for rent, shaded picnic tables and fire pits. You can ride the lazy river and relax on the sandy beach. Activities are always happening throughout the day for families to enjoy and there’s also a bowling alley and arcade. When it’s time to eat, check out the colorful restaurants and lounges to enjoy all your favorite foods.
