I-Drive or Lake Buenavista

Question

Couple spending 3 nights in Orlando before cruise. Was planning on staying on I-drive as been there before and know there’s plenty of restaurants/bars. As we only plan to get a day pass for Hollywood studios, we’re wondering if Lake Buenavista would be a better option? Never been there, so not sure if there will be enough there for us (We won’t be hiring a car). Many thanks.

Answer

Both I-Drive (International Drive) and Lake Buena Vista have their own unique advantages, so it really depends on what you’re looking for in your stay in Orlando. Since you’re only planning to spend one day at Hollywood Studios and won’t be hiring a car, I’ll outline the pros and cons of each area to help you decide which location would be best for your three-night stay.

International Drive (I-Drive) is the more vibrant, tourist-centric area of Orlando, and it’s a great option if you want to be in the heart of the action. Here are some reasons why I-Drive could be a good choice for you:

Plenty of dining, shopping, and entertainment options: I-Drive is known for its wide variety of restaurants, bars, and shops, so you’ll never run out of things to do in the evening after your visit to Hollywood Studios. You’ll find a wide range of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, as well as attractions like ICON Park (home to The Wheel) and various mini-golf courses.
Public transportation options: Since you won’t have a car, I-Drive is a convenient location with easy access to public transport. The I-Ride Trolley is a popular option for getting around the area and even has routes that go to Disney Springs and other popular spots.
Proximity to other theme parks: In addition to your Hollywood Studios visit, I-Drive is close to Universal Studios, SeaWorld, and other attractions, so it’s an ideal base if you want to explore Orlando’s other theme parks. If you want to do more than just Hollywood Studios, you won’t have to travel too far to reach other places.

On the flip side, if you’re looking for something a bit quieter with more of a resort vibe, you might consider staying in Lake Buena Vista. While the area is still close to Disney and other major attractions, it offers a different atmosphere. Here are some things to consider:

Proximity to Disney Springs: Lake Buena Vista is home to Disney Springs, which is a fantastic area for shopping, dining, and entertainment. There’s a wide variety of restaurants, bars, and live entertainment here, so if you want to experience some Disney magic beyond the theme parks, this is a great option. It’s an easy 10-minute ride from most hotels in Lake Buena Vista to Disney Springs.
More relaxed, resort-style atmosphere: If you’re looking for a more relaxed vibe, Lake Buena Vista offers a range of resorts that are often quieter than the busy areas around I-Drive. It’s a good spot if you want to enjoy some downtime without the constant hustle and bustle of a major tourist strip.
Closer to Disney parks: While you’ve mentioned you only plan to visit Hollywood Studios, if you decide to visit other Disney parks like EPCOT or Animal Kingdom, Lake Buena Vista is closer. You’ll have quicker access to Disney’s transportation system, which can be a big advantage for getting to and from the parks without a car.

Which is the better choice? If your primary goal is to be close to Hollywood Studios with easy access to Disney Springs and you prefer a more relaxed, resort-style atmosphere, Lake Buena Vista would be a solid choice. It’s quieter than I-Drive but still offers plenty to do within walking distance or a short shuttle ride. However, if you’re looking for a livelier area with more options for dining, shopping, and entertainment in the evenings, I-Drive would be the better option. Since it has more things to do within walking distance and better public transportation options, you’ll find it easier to navigate the city without a car.

Either way, both areas are great for a short stay in Orlando. It all comes down to the type of vibe and convenience you’re looking for. Enjoy your trip!