When most travelers talk about “Orlando,” they’re really talking about a huge swath of Central Florida comprised of many cities and unofficial districts (for example, most of Walt Disney World is technically located in the city of Bay Lake). Taking everything into consideration, “Orlando” is one of the most spread-out vacation destinations in the world – and that’s why you could potentially waste a lot of time and energy if your accommodations are not in the area of the attractions that interest you most.
In this edition of Orlando for Beginners, let’s break down each of Orlando’s unique districts, and I will steer you in the right direction by highlighting each of their pros and cons.
Walt Disney World
This district has almost always held the title for being the most popular one in Orlando, although two of the others have been gaining more ground the past few years.
If the primary focus on your trip to Orlando is Walt Disney World, then it really is in your best interests to stay on Disney property. Just keep in mind that it can be very costly to do so.
The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort are some of the most luxurious places to stay in all of Central Florida.
There are alternative areas within this zone that offer many Disney benefits; staying in Lake Buena Vista, for example, still offers nearby convenience and usually lower room rates. However, if you want the extra perks – such as Disney transportation and Extra Magic Hours – then three groupings of hotels will have you covered while still offering lower prices: near Downtown Disney (known as Hotel Plaza Blvd), Starwood’s Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin, and Bonnet Creek.
Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista combines luxury with more affordable prices.
Keep in mind that only Disney-owned and -operated properties include the new MagicBand and Disney’s Magical Express (free shuttle service to and from the airport). For some folks, this is a major plus, while for others, it is not worth the extra money that an on-property resort can cost.
Pros:
Convenient location to Disney’s theme parks and awesome benefits when staying on Walt Disney World property. The themed resorts and hotels keep that magical pixie dust nearby, too.
Cons:
Higher prices and limited nighttime entertainment and dining districts.
Universal Orlando
This zone is growing in popularity due to the magic spell that the Wizarding Worlds of Harry Potter have cast. And, of course, here at Orlando Informer, we’re pretty fond of this particular area.
Sapphire Falls Resort will be coming to Universal Orlando in 2016.
Just like Disney’s on-property hotels, Universal’s also offer special perks, including Early Park Admission and, depending on the venue, free unlimited Express Pass access.
This selection is typically best suited for those visitors with older kids (or no kids at all), but it’s still family-friendly. The benefits of Early Park Admission and frequent complimentary transportation are a major time saver and enable you to relax and enjoy the excitement of the whole resort.
If your primary focus is Universal Orlando’s two theme parks, then there really is no better place to stay. If you are visiting during a busy time (be sure to check out the OI Crowd Calendar to find out what the anticipated crowd levels are for your potential vacation), then it is worth considering staying at one of the three deluxe on-site Universal hotels so you can take advantage of the awesome unlimited Express Pass perk.
Portofino Bay Hotel is the most deluxe of the deluxe venues at Universal Orlando.
You’ll feel like a VIP when you walk up to a participating attraction, show your hotel Express Pass, and bypass the standby line. Plus, the water taxi transportation is scenic and relaxing.
If you are visiting during a slower time – or, perhaps, the bigger attractions are not a main focus for you – then Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort offers great affordability with lots of amenities that make this moderately-priced property a family-friendly destination.
Cabana Bay Beach Resort may be moderately priced, but it’s still stylish and chock full of amenities.
If you choose to spend less money on a hotel and stay in the Kirkman area, you will still be close by, and many of the venues here are considered Universal Orlando partner hotels – and, as such, offer special perks – so be sure to research this before booking.
It is worth noting that some surrounding parts of Kirkman Road and International Drive present more traffic and congestion. Still, there are a fair amount of dining and entertainment options just outside of Universal Orlando, which may make up for the extra trouble.
Pros:
Convenient location to Universal’s theme parks and great access to Universal CityWalk and nearby dining options and smaller attractions.
Cons:
Higher prices at certain hotels and more traffic.
International Drive
Perhaps the International Drive zone is the most up-and-coming area of all Orlando.
While I-Drive has been a destination within Orlando since the 1970s, Universal’s recent popularity explosion has caused the tourist district to become increasingly popular. You will find lots of “local” attractions along I-Drive (such as WonderWorks, Ripley’s Believe It or Not, Fun Spot, WhirlyDome) and a variety of dining options (including Pointe Orlando and Restaurant Row).
With new developments sprouting up all along the swerving strip that is International Drive, there is more to do here than ever before. And with the current major developments of I-Drive 360 on one end and the Artegon Marketplace on the other, this area is experiencing a renaissance.
I-Drive 360 will have a little bit of everything in it, from restaurants to shops to giant Ferris wheels.
However, I-Drive is over 10 miles long; in all actuality, Universal, SeaWorld, and I-Drive could be considered their own districts. It can be overwhelming deciding just which part of International Drive is best for you.
I recommend the south area for those who desire budget-friendly hotels and for those who plan on doing a little bit of everything while in Orlando. This district is also home to the Orlando/Orange County Convention Center. However, it is also a little further away from Universal Orlando.
See more about I-Drive’s many wonderful attractions
Pros:
Centrally located – easy to get to all major attractions. Plus there’s lots to do and lots of new offerings.
Cons:
High-traffic area and limited perks.
Kissimmee and Celebration
When Walt Disney World first came to life in 1971, the hotel and motel options were quite limited, and you can forget about sprawling resorts back then. One part of Central Florida that was quick to capitalize on the need for accommodations near the new vacation kingdom was Kissimmee.
Originally known for cattle land, Kissimmee has long since become a well-established area, home to a variety of hotels, motels, vacation homes, and resorts. In certain places, there is still some rural charm and lots of reminders of a time when Disney World was still a relatively new concept.
Downtown Kissimmee.
One section of the Kissimmee area that feels worlds apart from the busy tourist corridor is Celebration. Originally a city built and designed by Walt Disney World, among other contributors, Celebration is one of the nation’s first planned communities and continues to fascinate visitors and residents alike. It’s simply charming.
Downtown Celebration.
You’ll find a few resorts and hotels nearby Celebration, with pretty affordable rates, very easy access to Disney World, and a variety of dining. There is also one lovely boutique hotel, the Bohemian Celebration, nestled in the heart of the city, overlooking a lake and the town square, that comes highly recommended.
Pros:
A wide variety of accommodations are available, making it easy to find one that fits your needs. Many hotels are just outside Walt Disney World’s main entrance. Plus, there’s lots of dining options.
Cons:
Kissimmee can be very busy with lots of traffic. And some parts of the main strip (Irlo Bronson/Highway 192) could use a little sprucing up.
North Orlando and Seminole County
Not many tourists think of visiting North Central Florida/Seminole County, much less staying here. Seminole County is an older, more established part of Central Florida, boasting lots of lush parks and historic neighborhoods (and it’s where I’ve called home my entire life, to boot).
You’ll find lots of local dining and small businesses, plus beautiful natural attractions. There’s also lots of farmer’s markets and museums in and near this area.
A Seminole farmer’s market, via Visit Seminole.
Most of all, the room rates will be very affordable, and you can access the theme parks and major tourist areas through alternatives such as toll roads 417 and 429, as well as explore more of Central Florida through the SunRail (Orlando’s new commuter rail that yours truly rides almost daily).
The new Florida SunRail.
You can also choose from a variety of awesome hotels in the heart of Orlando’s thriving downtown area with a big-city feel and a whole slew of dining and entertainment options.
Seminole County may not be a realistic choice for many visitors, but if you are looking for something different, something adventurous, something away from the norm and much more affordable then the other districts, it’s worth some consideration.
Pros:
Affordability, unique experiences, convenient to cultural and natural attractions, and lots of dining options.
Cons:
Distance from all major attractions, along with very limited transportation options (other than Lynx buses and the SunRail).
“Orlando” truly is the world’s most exciting family vacation destination, and there is something for everyone. It can be overwhelming, so narrow your choices down to whatever attractions are of most interest to you. The good news is you’re off to a great start just by being an Orlando Informer reader!
To learn more, check out all the posts in our Orlando for Beginners series, or peruse the OI Blog archive for even more on what there’s to do around Orlando.
You can also ask for advice on which Central Florida attractions are worth visiting in the OI Forums.