Where to stay

If the focus of your trip is theme parks, making a reservation right at the destination is perfect for maximizing time spent enjoying rides, shows and park events, including fireworks. Walt Disney World®, Disney Springs® Area, Lake Buena Vista and several other Disney spots have themed accommodations and offer transportation by bus, Skyliner or boat directly to the four Walt Disney World theme parks. The SeaWorld - Convention Center area is convenient for marveling at the antics of SeaWorld® Orlando's marine animals and seeing action from popular movies at Universal Studios in combination with attending one of Orange County Convention Center's 200 annual events.

Get a hotel in Millenia to be near several large malls with good deals on luxury items. This neighborhood is also convenient to the Universal Studios complex. With a stay in the Orlando International Airport, Williamsburg or Belle Isle neighborhoods, discount shopping is practically at the doorstep of numerous hotels. Visit The Florida Mall, where more than 250 retail and dining spots draw enthusiastic visitors. Of course, every theme park has at least one shop with souvenirs galore and often very nice luxury items.

Central Florida has plenty of sun, sand and animals to enjoy. Hotels in Kissimmee are still close to Orlando's theme parks and also near the beautiful Lake Tohopekaliga, perfect for fishing, birdwatching, strolling and spotting alligators. Kissimmee has a children's playground, which is a quiet alternative to the busy theme parks. Alternatively, enjoy the water on an exciting airboat ride, a uniquely Floridian activity. If you're interested in golf and village living, book a hotel in the nearby area of Celebration. Alternatively, accommodations in Sanford position you close to the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens, perfect for quiet relaxation after busy theme park days.

Winter Park's museums feature everything from sarcophagi to Tiffany glass. Downtown Orlando is a great spot for enjoying the area's sophistication, without a theme park in sight. A booking at a luxurious downtown hotel provides easy access to restaurants, art galleries, performing arts, romantic views or super NBA action with the Orlando Magic.