Hotel up to 1 hour drive from Orlando airport

Question

We are 4 adults flying into Orlando in April. We want to stay 2 nights at a hotel in a walkable area to restaurants and bars. We are heading down to Fort Lauderdale after that to pick up a cruise so our stay needs to be in that direction. We don’t want to visit any theme parks just chill out after a long flight then an Uber to Fort Lauderdale. Any suggestions?

Answer

If you are flying into Orlando and want a relaxing stay without visiting theme parks, your best bet is to focus on neighborhoods or towns that are walkable with restaurants, bars, and easy access south toward Fort Lauderdale. Here are some ideas:

Best Areas for Walkable Hotels:

Winter Park: About 20 minutes from Orlando Airport. Charming streets with boutique shops, restaurants, and bars. Ideal for strolling and having dinner without needing a car.
Downtown Orlando: Around 20–25 minutes from the airport. Offers a variety of hotels near Church Street and Wall Street areas, close to nightlife, craft breweries, and dining options.
Lake Nona: Roughly 15 minutes from the airport. Modern area with some walkable restaurants and bars, quieter than downtown or Winter Park.

Recommended Hotels:

Winter Park: The Alfond Inn – boutique hotel, central location to walk to dining and shops.
Downtown Orlando: Grand Bohemian Hotel – luxury option near nightlife and restaurants.
Downtown Orlando: AC Hotel by Marriott – modern, close to Lake Eola and walkable eateries.
Lake Nona: Home2 Suites by Hilton – quiet, newer area, casual dining nearby.

Transportation South to Fort Lauderdale:

Uber or Lyft from Winter Park or Downtown Orlando to Fort Lauderdale will be roughly a 3–3.5 hour drive, so if you prefer to avoid long rides immediately after the flight, staying closer to the airport is convenient.
Alternatively, consider renting a car for flexibility and easier luggage transport south.

Overall, for a chill 2-night stay, Winter Park or Downtown Orlando is ideal: walkable, lots of dining options, and only a short drive to the airport to continue your journey to Fort Lauderdale and the cruise.