Planning a trip to the theme park capital can feel overwhelming at first, because choosing where to stay in Orlando works very differently from choosing accommodation in most destinations. It’s not just about where you’ll sleep after a long day; it’s about deciding how to approach the parks. If you’re heading to Florida, you’ll soon realize that your hotel is really buying you time—the most valuable thing of all at these crowded resorts.
The secret to a successful trip is that splurging on a resort inside the parks can actually be well worth it, especially if you’re traveling with family. Guests at select hotels enjoy exclusive perks such as early park entry and, in some cases, free access to express queues. Those early-morning hours, when the parks are still relatively quiet, can save you hours of standing in the afternoon heat.
Let’s take a closer look at when it makes sense to stay at a Disney resort, when it’s better to stay near Universal, and who would be happiest in a spacious apartment with a kitchen somewhere in between.
TL;DR
- Best overall hotel: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge offers an incredible experience, with live animals grazing right outside your room windows.
- Best for Universal fans: Loews Royal Pacific Resort is a Premier-category hotel, so your stay includes the hugely valuable Express Pass for everyone in your room.
- Best family compromise: Sheraton Vistana Villages Resort Villas has spacious apartments with kitchens, helping you save a lot on expensive meals in the parks.
- Best value: Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort has a fantastic retro theme and free shuttles to the parks.
- Best budget option on the main tourist strip: Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando is very affordable, has three pools, and sits right in the heart of the action.
- Best budget stay at Disney: Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort gives you the perks of staying on-site for a fraction of the price of luxury resorts.
💡 Compare what’s currently available on this map — you can also see how much cheaper accommodation can be just a few stops from the center.
The full destination guide: North America — guide and what to see
Which area should you choose?
Orlando essentially has three very different worlds, and your choice should depend mainly on how many days you plan to spend at each park. If you’re visiting Disney World for five days, staying at a Disney resort makes sense: you’ll save a lot of time getting around and enjoy valuable early-morning perks.
Walt Disney World is practically a city of its own, with its own hotels, buses, boats, and famous monorail. Staying here is more expensive, but you get 30 minutes of early entry to all the parks, and standard parking is included with your stay. Otherwise, parking would cost $35 per day. You won’t need a car at all, which is a huge relief if you’d rather avoid the stress of morning traffic.
Universal Orlando is much more compact and especially popular with older kids and Harry Potter fans. From most hotels, you can walk comfortably to the park gates or take a free water taxi. Guests get early entry to select areas, even on their arrival and departure days. Parking is also free at select hotels, saving you dozens of dollars from your daily budget.
If you want to mix and match parks, stay on International Drive (I-Drive). This lively main tourist strip is packed with restaurants and attractions, including the huge ICON Park observation wheel. It has the largest selection of reasonably priced hotels, many with shuttle buses to the area’s main attractions. It’s an ideal choice if you want a taste of everything.
Lake Buena Vista is another popular area. It’s right by Disney but just outside its official boundaries. You’ll find great apartments with kitchens, making it an excellent compromise between price and location. Kissimmee is similar, but it’s the cheapest area, with plenty of villa-style resorts. Disney is nearby, but Universal is farther away, and you’ll definitely need a rental car here.
By contrast, Downtown Orlando and Winter Park are beautiful neighborhoods full of galleries and cafés, but they’re the farthest from the parks. They only make sense if you want to experience the real Florida city, with its lakes and local coffee shops, and theme park resorts aren’t your top priority.
When to visit and when to book
Timing is crucial in Orlando, as prices and crowds can change dramatically depending on the calendar. The best dates are outside US school holidays, when the parks are quieter and accommodation is significantly cheaper. Try to avoid Christmas, Easter, summer vacation, and Thanksgiving, when the parks are packed and popular rides can have waits of several hours.
Florida summers are also extremely hot and humid, with regular afternoon thunderstorms to watch out for. Around midday, the parks may thin out a little because of the unbearable heat, but when a storm rolls in, all outdoor roller coasters close immediately for safety. Spring and late fall are ideal times to visit, with more comfortable temperatures and more settled weather.
As for booking, hotels inside the parks sell out months in advance. This is especially true of the cheapest options, such as Disney’s All-Star resorts and Universal’s Endless Summer. Rooms disappear quickly, so if you have specific dates in mind, don’t wait too long to book your stay. The earlier you book, the better your chances of getting a good price.
Buy park tickets early, too, and remember that multi-day tickets are much cheaper per day. A one-day ticket to Disney World starts at $119 and can rise to $209 during peak periods. The much-anticipated new park, Epic Universe, is a major draw, with tickets starting at around $139. Plan your budget carefully, as tickets for the whole family can take a sizeable bite out of your travel funds.
Where to stay in Orlando: 18 best hotels and resorts
Here’s our list of the best places to stay in Orlando, organized by area to make it easier to compare your options. All the hotels featured have genuine, verified guest ratings, so you’ll know what to expect before you book.
1. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is one of the city’s highest-rated hotels, and its impressive entrance is sure to make an impression. The African safari theme is taken seriously here: expect beautiful textiles, sculptures, and scents that transport you to another continent, not cheap plastic decorations. Guests love the magic of watching giraffes, zebras, and antelopes roaming right outside their windows. Add a spectacular lobby, wonderfully friendly staff, and evenings spent around the fire overlooking the savanna, and you have the kind of experience you’ll remember for years.
A major advantage is staying inside the famous Disney bubble, which can save you money and hassle. As a guest, you get 30 minutes of early park entry, free hotel buses to get around, and standard parking at no extra cost—a saving of $35 per day. After a long day, you’ll appreciate the two excellent pools, which guests often mention in their reviews. Just be prepared for a little patience at afternoon check-in, as rooms aren’t always ready right at 3 p.m.
💡 Tip: I’d definitely pay extra for a savanna-view room. Morning coffee on the balcony with giraffes in sight is unforgettable. The restaurants also serve fantastic African and Indian vegetarian dishes that are well worth trying.
2. Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort sits right on the famous monorail route, making trips to Magic Kingdom and Epcot easy. The resort has a relaxed Polynesian feel, and guests say its white sand, tropical plants, and flickering torches make it feel almost like Hawaii. Families especially love the fantastic pool with its huge volcano and the traditional evening luau. If you’re planning to spend most of your time at the main park and want to reach the attractions in just a few minutes—even by boat—I think this is one of the most convenient options.
Another great perk is 30-minute early entry to all the parks, which really helps with the morning rush. Standard parking is included, too, saving you $35 each day. Guests also praise the friendly staff and great food at Ohana and Captain Cook’s. Just a short distance away, you can try the legendary Dole Whip pineapple soft serve—a must. Despite being close to all the action, the rooms and bungalows are said to be surprisingly quiet.
💡 Tip: You can watch the evening fireworks over the castle from the beach. Speakers along the shore play the music, so just settle into a deck chair and enjoy the show without having to squeeze into a crowd.
3. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is perhaps the most luxurious address in the entire resort, with Victorian architecture, red roofs, and white walls. Reviews show that guests love its old-Florida atmosphere, enhanced in the evenings by a live orchestra in the marble lobby. Getting to the parks—especially Magic Kingdom—is incredibly easy by monorail or boat, or with a pleasant 10-minute walk. But the biggest highlight, according to many guests, is the view: you can watch the spectacular evening fireworks right from your own balcony.
As a guest at this premium resort, you get a 30-minute head start on park entry and avoid standard parking fees. There’s a luxury spa and two huge outdoor pools, though keep in mind that there are no lifeguards. The restaurants can prepare excellent vegetarian meals on request, and guests also rave about character breakfasts. Just be aware that this is by far the most expensive hotel in the area. The service is wonderful, but some guests mention average food at the more casual buffet or minor wear in some rooms.
💡 Tip: If you’re celebrating a special anniversary or planning a romantic getaway for two, this is one of the most peaceful and elegant places in the Disney resort area. You’ll feel like royalty.
4. Disney’s Beach Club Resort
Disney’s Beach Club Resort evokes New England’s relaxed seaside resorts and is a dream for anyone who loves the water. Its biggest draw is Stormalong Bay, an incredible three-acre water complex with a sandy bottom, lazy river, and a waterslide shaped like a shipwreck. The location is hard to beat: you can walk straight to Epcot, so there’s no need to wait for a bus. Rooms are spacious and spotlessly clean, and some reportedly have views of the evening fireworks. Guests love the varied dining, from character breakfasts to the famous Beaches & Cream ice cream parlor.
Do keep in mind that the hotel has a lively, energetic atmosphere. It can be hard to find an empty pool lounger during the day, and you may occasionally hear the guests upstairs flushing the toilet. On the plus side, standard parking is included and you get 30-minute early entry to the parks. Epcot’s proximity is also a bonus if you avoid meat. The park has some of the best vegetarian options in Orlando, including excellent Mexican and Italian dishes just a short walk away.
💡 Tip: This resort is a great choice for families with older kids who’ll appreciate the elaborate pool complex. While they splash around all afternoon, you can relax on a lounger with a book.
5. Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
Disney’s Yacht Club Resort is Beach Club’s sister hotel, sharing the fantastic Stormalong Bay water complex, with its sandy bottom, lazy river, and giant waterslide. Guests agree it may be the best pool in the entire resort. The hotel has a more grown-up, elegant nautical style, so the atmosphere is quieter. Reviews are full of praise for the excellent staff, who can arrange magical surprises for children. The rooms are spacious and clean, and guests often mention the exceptionally comfortable pillows.
For convenience, you’re right by the water, with easy walks to Epcot or a water taxi to Hollywood Studios after unwinding at the spa. You also get 30-minute early entry to the parks, which gives you a chance to enjoy popular rides before the crowds arrive. Standard parking is included, so you can put the $35-a-day saving toward one of the giant pretzels you’ll find at nearby Epcot. Just note that some guests notice minor wear on the furniture or unexpected scaffolding during building maintenance.
💡 Tip: If you’re traveling as a couple and want a great location by Epcot but prefer a more subdued atmosphere without children running around, this could be the perfect place for a peaceful getaway.
6. Disney’s BoardWalk Villas
Disney’s BoardWalk Villas will transport you to a lively early-20th-century seaside boardwalk as soon as you arrive. Guests especially appreciate the spacious, clean apartments with kitchenettes, a huge plus in the Disney resort area. You can make a substantial breakfast and save a good amount on the parks’ pricey food. Walk around the picturesque lake and you’ll reach Epcot’s gates in about five minutes; Hollywood Studios takes a little longer. That means no relying on buses, although you can also take a boat or the Skyliner gondola.
You still get all the resort benefits, including 30-minute early park entry and no standard parking fee. Guests praise the handy fold-down beds and the overall atmosphere, but offer a word of warning about accessible rooms: they can be quite far from the elevators, and pushing a wheelchair across the thick hallway carpets can be a struggle. Otherwise, it’s wonderfully convenient. While the crowds are making their way to the parking lots at the end of the day, you can take a leisurely stroll straight back to bed.
💡 Tip: The boardwalk below the hotel comes alive in the evening with street performers, little shops, and food stalls. Don’t miss the fireworks, which you can see beautifully from the nearby bridge as you stroll beside the illuminated lake.
7. Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Disney’s Contemporary Resort is an Orlando icon, instantly recognizable by its huge A-frame building. The biggest attraction for many guests is the futuristic monorail that runs right through the hotel, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. The main reason to stay here, though, is its incredible proximity to Magic Kingdom. It’s a pleasant 10-minute walk to the park, letting you bypass the morning crowds waiting for the ferry. As with Disney’s other official hotels, standard parking is included and you get 30-minute early entry to the rides.
The spacious rooms have fun Incredibles-themed decor, but note that there’s no regular refrigerator—just a beverage cooler. If you need to keep milk cold, I’d suggest adding a bag of ice. Otherwise, everything works smoothly, including the wonderfully friendly service. There are several restaurants, including Chef Mickey’s, where you can have breakfast with Disney characters. A huge benefit is being able to duck back to your room during the midday heat, recharge by the heated pool, and then enjoy the nighttime water parade.
💡 Tip: Book a table at the restaurant on the top floor well in advance. You’ll get an incredible view of the nighttime fireworks over Cinderella Castle and can enjoy the show over dinner without squeezing into the crowds.
8. Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort will charm you with architecture inspired by sunny Mexico and Spanish colonial style. The vast complex stretches around a large man-made lake crossed by a lovely footbridge, creating a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere. Guests love the huge central pool with its pyramid and attentive lifeguards, as well as several smaller, quieter pools scattered around the resort. It’s a good option if you want a touch of luxury at a more reasonable price, especially since the Gran Destino Tower added a modern feel.
Keep in mind that the resort is sprawling and involves quite a bit of walking, so request a room near the center of the action if that’s a concern. A major plus is the reliable bus service, which regularly takes you straight to the theme parks. Since it’s an official Disney hotel, you’ll save $35 a day on standard parking and get the popular 30-minute early-entry perk, which is especially useful when the parks are busy in the morning.
💡 Tip: If you want Disney perks but don’t want to pay the eye-watering rates at the Grand Floridian—and don’t fancy sleeping in an overly themed kids’ room—this resort is a very appealing middle ground.
9. Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort
Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort is one of the cheapest places to stay inside the Disney resort area, but you still get all the magic and perks for a fraction of the cost of luxury hotels. It’s a wonderfully photogenic, cheerful place, where giant statues of familiar movie characters greet you on arrival. Guests love its cleanliness and playful atmosphere, which children adore. The large themed food court serves affordable meals, and you can grab a bite after returning from the rides. There are also two large pools where you can cool off.
The resort is a little farther from the parks, and it can be noisy at times. Rooms are on the small side and could do with a bit of updating. The transport more than makes up for it: buses to destinations throughout Disney World run about every 15 to 20 minutes, so there’s no need to drive. Standard parking is free, saving you $35 per day, and, most importantly, you get 30-minute early entry to the rides before other guests.
💡 Tip: If you’re on a tighter budget but want early entry and free transport, this is a great choice. Just remember that it sells out months in advance because of its value, so book early.
10. Loews Royal Pacific Resort
Loews Royal Pacific Resort will transport you to the peaceful islands of the South Pacific, even though it’s just a short distance from the busy theme parks. Its biggest highlight is the huge lagoon-style pool with a white sand beach. It stays open until 11 p.m., making it the perfect place to relax after a full day of screaming on roller coasters. Guests praise the friendly staff, spacious rooms, and good food. Getting to the parks and CityWalk is easy: take a pleasant walk through the tropical landscaping or hop on a water taxi, a welcome option for tired legs.
The biggest perk is its Universal Premier status. Your stay automatically includes an Express Pass for everyone in your room, letting you skip the regular queues. Passes would normally cost $190–$270 per day. You also get an hour of early entry to select parks, even on arrival and departure days. Self-parking is free, too, saving you the usual $30. The stay may look expensive at first, but these benefits make it much better value.
💡 Tip: If you’re traveling as a group of four, the value of the Express Passes can often exceed the price of the room itself. This more luxurious stay could end up being an incredible deal—and save you hours in line.
11. Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
Loews Portofino Bay Hotel is a faithful recreation of the Italian town of Portofino, with cobbled piazzas, moored boats, and charming cafés along the harbor. Guests praise the spacious rooms and fantastic staff, who are easy to reach by text. The biggest draw is the complimentary Express Pass, which lets you skip the worst queues, plus an hour of early entry to Universal. It’s the perfect time to explore the empty Harry Potter streets. When you’re ready to relax, choose from three pools, ranging from quiet spots to a large complex with Roman aqueducts and waterslides.
Some rooms are said to feel a little dated, and the bathroom layouts can be awkward. The food is excellent—guests especially love the breakfast buffet with fresh honeycomb—but expect higher prices. There’s no need to worry about a car: parking is free, and the park gates are about a 10-minute walk away. I love that the resort doesn’t feel like a busy theme park hotel, so you can enjoy some real peace and quiet after a long day.
💡 Tip: You can take a free water taxi to Universal’s parks, which makes for a fantastic start to the day. The boats are fairly small, so you might have to wait a little. In the evening, try the excellent vegetarian pasta or pizza at one of the resort’s restaurants.
12. Loews Sapphire Falls Resort
Loews Sapphire Falls Resort will put you in vacation mode as soon as you walk in: the lobby smells wonderful, and you’re greeted with a flower lei at check-in. This Caribbean-inspired resort centers on a blue lagoon, roaring waterfalls, and a huge pool with a waterslide—an easy place to spend the whole afternoon. Guests love how clean it is, the comfortable rooms, and the friendly staff. Prices fall somewhere in the middle, making it a great compromise if you want a more luxurious setting without paying the premium rates of Universal’s top-tier hotels.
The big advantage is the transport to the main attractions: a water taxi departs right from the hotel and conveniently lets you bypass the main CityWalk security lines. You can also reach the parks via a pleasant, landscaped walking trail. Express Pass isn’t included, but you still get an hour of early park entry, and self-parking is free for guests. One minor downside, according to visitors, is that food on-site is quite expensive and the choice is somewhat limited.
💡 Tip: Be sure to stop by Strongwater Tavern. It has a fantastic rum selection and excellent Caribbean-inspired food, making it the perfect place to unwind and talk about your day after the parks.
13. Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando
Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando is as energetic and stylish as you’d expect from the music brand, and it’s the closest hotel to the main parks. You can walk to the gates in less than five minutes or take a boat. Guests praise the clean, spacious rooms and the friendly staff. The biggest draw is that, as a guest at one of Universal’s three elite Premier hotels, you get a free Express Pass, free parking, and an hour of early park entry. The Express Pass alone is a huge benefit: for example, it’s expected to cost around $130 at the upcoming Epic Universe, so it can go a long way toward justifying your room rate.
It’s a lively place, which does come with a few drawbacks. The main pool has a great waterslide and even underwater music, but some guests say the strong current and DJ games can make it chaotic—not ideal for a quiet afternoon. A few visitors also feel that service can be inconsistent and that the rooms, which don’t have balconies, look a little dated. Still, it’s a great choice if you’re looking for action and a full-on rock-and-roll atmosphere.
💡 Tip: This could be a hit if you’re traveling with teenagers—they’ll love the setting. You can even borrow a real electric guitar from reception to play in your room after a day on the rides.
14. Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort
Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort stands out for its iconic retro design, as if it had stepped straight out of the 1950s or 1960s—and it looks fantastic in photos. Guests love the sheer number of things to do on-site, so you’re unlikely to get bored. There are two huge pools, a popular lazy river, and even a bowling alley. The free shuttle to the theme parks runs constantly, and guests often praise the wonderfully helpful staff, who can suggest rainy-day activities indoors.
This is a very popular resort, so the pools and cafés can get crowded during the day. Some guests also honestly mention that a few rooms could be better maintained. Otherwise, it offers a great balance of price and entertainment. You get an hour of early park entry and free parking, too. Take the shuttle to Universal Studios or CityWalk, or walk there if you prefer.
💡 Tip: The resort even has its own private entrance to Volcano Bay water park. Just leave your room and, about five minutes later, you could be sliding into the water—a great way to save precious time.
15. Universal Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites
Universal Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites is Universal’s cheapest hotel, but guests are often delighted with their stay. Its fresh nautical style and generous spaces make a great first impression, and the resort is spotlessly clean. Guests especially praise the reliable buses that take you straight to the theme park gates, and the hour of early entry is a major perk. There’s a large food court where the chefs are happy to accommodate guests with allergies, as well as two big outdoor pools with sandy beaches—lovely spots to relax.
The rooms are thoughtfully designed and spacious, with a mini-fridge and microwave—especially handy for larger families trying to save money. You get excellent service and friendly staff for a fraction of the price of more expensive resorts, and you can save another $30 per day on regular parking at the attractions. Just keep in mind that you may occasionally hear hallway noise through the walls. Otherwise, everything works well, and upper-floor rooms have lovely views.
💡 Tip: If you plan to spend all day on roller coasters and just need a place to sleep, this is a sensible choice. Book early, as it often sells out months in advance. You can also enjoy a late-night swim—the pool stays open until 11 p.m.
16. Hyatt Regency Orlando
Hyatt Regency Orlando is right on busy International Drive, just a short distance from the huge convention center. It feels like a welcome retreat from the constant theme park frenzy. Guests love the incredibly spacious, clean rooms, but the two beautiful outdoor pools with waterfalls and a small waterslide are the main attraction. There’s also a top-notch fitness center and a great spa—perfect if you need to unwind after a full day on your feet. The staff are very friendly, and guests say contacting reception by text works really well.
Shuttle buses take you to the attractions, so getting around is easy, although guests don’t get early park entry. There’s no airport shuttle, either, so you’ll probably need to call an Uber from the airport. In the evening, you’ll appreciate having dozens of restaurants right on your doorstep, including excellent Asian and Indian options for vegetarians. The complex is huge and a little pricey, but the excellent service and more peaceful atmosphere make up for it.
💡 Tip: If you want a break from the ever-present kids’ themes and prefer classic hotel luxury with great service, you can’t go wrong here. It’s a lovely base for your trip.
17. Sheraton Vistana Villages Resort Villas
Sheraton Vistana Villages Resort Villas is in the southern part of popular I-Drive and feels more like a charming little village than a hotel. Guests love having so much space: you can choose fully equipped one- or two-bedroom apartments with a washer and kitchen. The beautifully maintained grounds and incredibly friendly staff get plenty of praise, too. After a long day at the parks, you can relax in one of three heated pools, where guests appreciate the convenient towel service. It’s a wonderful base for families who want a little privacy in the evenings.
Parking at the resort may cost a little more, and the pools can attract some noisy groups in the evening, so head down earlier in the day if you’d prefer a quieter swim. This property can also help take the sting out of US food prices. Make eggs for breakfast and pack a few snacks, and you could save hundreds of dollars over a week—meals inside theme parks are extremely expensive. You can get to the attractions fairly easily by car or local transport, and kids can burn off extra energy at the resort’s sports facilities.
💡 Tip: If you’re traveling with the whole family for a week and don’t want everyone squeezed into one room, this is a smart option. You’ll have space to yourself, and the kitchen gives you control over your food budget.
18. Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando
Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando is a reliable favorite for travelers who want to stay right in the middle of the action on busy International Drive without spending a fortune. Guests especially praise the welcoming staff and the fact that, despite the very low price, you get a clean room with a microwave and mini-fridge. The atmosphere is relaxed, and after a full day at the parks, you’ll appreciate the three outdoor pools. It’s a good fit if you’re in Orlando mainly for the attractions and just need a comfortable base to come back to at the end of the day.
Just bear in mind that the interiors have seen better days and have a bit of a 1990s feel. Some rooms may also seem stuffy at first. Everything works, though, and the location more than makes up for it: across the street is a shopping center with plenty of cafés, affordable restaurants, and CVS pharmacies. The convention center is about a 10-minute walk away. The biggest perk is the free shuttle to Universal Studios—just remember to reserve your spot in advance.
💡 Tip: If you’re looking for the lowest price right on I-Drive without compromising on safety or cleanliness, Rosen hotels are a great option that won’t blow your budget.
How to choose the right hotel
When choosing accommodation in Orlando, ask yourself a few important questions. The biggest is your budget and whether you’d rather save money on your hotel or save time in the parks. If you’re a large family planning to visit both Disney and Universal, an apartment with a kitchen on I-Drive or in Kissimmee can be a smart choice, as you’d otherwise spend a fortune on meals in the parks. But if you’re going mainly for Harry Potter, choose a hotel in the Universal resort area.
Watch out for one sneaky detail: a hotel with “Orlando” in its name may not actually be in Orlando. It could be in Davenport or Kissimmee, which means a long morning commute in traffic. Always check the actual address on a map before you book.
Some independent water park resorts can be a gamble, too. For example, Holiday Inn Resort Orlando Suites – Waterpark has a low rating, and CoCo Key Resort and Water Park fares just as poorly. Despite the tempting water park in their names, both have some of the lowest ratings in the area, so it’s best to steer clear. Stick with a proven option instead.
What’s next?
- Things to do in Orlando
- Florida vacation: 25 things to see, an itinerary, and prices
- ESTA for the USA: how to apply
- What to see in the USA: 10 most beautiful places
Frequently asked questions
Is it worth paying for an expensive hotel right inside a theme park?
Absolutely, if your budget allows it. You’re not just buying a more luxurious bed, but primarily time and a strategic advantage. Guests at Disney hotels get 30 minutes of early entry, and at Universal it’s a whole hour. This lets you hit the biggest attractions without exhausting waits in the morning chill, which will genuinely save your entire day.
How much does parking cost in Orlando?
If you’re not staying at a resort right inside the parks, parking will cost you quite a bit. At Disney, standard parking is $35 per day, while preferred spots closer to the entrance cost $50 to $60. Universal charges $30 for standard parking and $50 for prime spots. However, guests at official hotels have parking included in their stay.
How does line-skipping work and how much does it cost?
Line-skipping is the biggest hidden cost in Orlando that can seriously inflate your vacation budget. Disney offers the Lightning Lane Multi Pass for $15 to $39 per person per day. At Universal it’s much more expensive—Express Pass at the new Epic Universe starts at around $130, but averages between $190 and $270. Since April 2026, you can also buy Express Pass Now for individual rides for around $20 to $30.
What does free Express Pass at certain hotels mean?
This is the best trick for visiting Universal. If you stay at their Premier category hotels (Royal Pacific, Portofino Bay, Hard Rock), you get Express Pass for the whole family included in your stay. Given that the pass normally costs hundreds of dollars per person, for a family of four that expensive hotel essentially pays for itself.
Where do vegetarians find the best food in Orlando?
Although park dining is full of meaty dishes and classic burgers, meatless options are growing. Epcot has by far the best selection for vegetarians in all of Orlando—you’ll find excellent Mexican and Italian food, signature pretzels, and the legendary refreshing Dole Whip pineapple soft-serve. Outside the parks, you’ll find great Indian and Asian cuisine all along International Drive.
Is it true that evening parking at Universal is free?
Yes and no. Traditionally, standard parking at Universal’s main parks (Studios and Islands of Adventure) was free after 6 PM for everyone, even if you’re just going to CityWalk for dinner. But be very careful—this free evening parking does not apply at the new Epic Universe park, where the rules have been significantly tightened.
Is it worth renting an apartment with your own kitchen?
From a financial perspective, it’s incredibly worth it. Food inside the theme parks is extremely expensive and portions often don’t match the price. If you have accommodation with a kitchen, you can make a hearty breakfast and pack snacks to bring along. For a week-long stay with a family of four, cooking your own meals can easily save you hundreds of dollars.
Tips and Tricks for Your Vacation
Don’t Overpay for Flights
Search for flights on Kayak. It’s our favorite search engine because it scans the websites of all airlines and always finds the cheapest connection.
Book Your Accommodation Smartly
The best experiences we’ve had when looking for accommodation (from Alaska to Morocco) are with Booking.com, where hotels, apartments, and entire houses are usually the cheapest and most widely available.
🚗 Car rental on the roadVerified rental cars in the United StatesSearch with the DiscoverCars comparison engine — it compares prices from dozens of local and international rental companies, and most bookings come with free cancellation.
Compare car prices in the United States →Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Good travel insurance will protect you against illness, accidents, theft, or flight cancellations. We’ve had a few hospital visits abroad, so we know how important it is to have proper insurance arranged.
Where we insure ourselves: SafetyWing (best for everyone) and TrueTraveller (for extra-long trips).
Why don’t we recommend any Czech insurance company? Because they have too many restrictions. They set limits on the number of days abroad, travel insurance via a credit card often requires you to pay medical expenses only with that card, and they frequently limit the number of returns to the Czech Republic.
Find the Best Experiences
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