Help! First time in orlando

Question

Hi all. It's like a minefield of choices.

Budget isn't so much an issue. We don't want cheap but don't want to spend loads for the sake of it.

Possibilities are staying closer to universal for a week then moving to a villa closer to Disney for a week and renting a car?

Looking mainly around international drive

Ramada plaza was one I saw and courtyard by Marriott lake. So many have bad reviews but I always take them with a pinch of salt.

We would like to be able to walk out hotel and get food etc. have a nice are for down days if needed. A suite would be nice or even one bed apt.

Will be 2 adults and an 11 year old

Any help appreciated

Answer

Orlando can indeed feel overwhelming with so many hotel and resort options, especially when balancing proximity to theme parks, walkability, and comfort for down days. Given your situation—two adults and an 11-year-old looking for convenience, some leisure space, and easy access to food—there are a few strategies and options to consider.

Staying near Universal vs. Disney

Your idea of splitting your stay makes sense. A week near Universal Studios (International Drive area) gives easy access to Universal and CityWalk, while the second week closer to Disney can reduce driving time to the parks and allow a more relaxed pace. Renting a car for the Disney portion is practical, as many of the villas and hotels near Disney are less walkable to restaurants than International Drive.

Hotel Options around International Drive

Ramada Plaza by Wyndham International Drive: Centrally located on International Drive, walking distance to restaurants, shops, and some attractions. Offers suites for families, though reviews vary on room quality and service.
Courtyard by Marriott Orlando Lake Buena Vista: Closer to Disney but still accessible to International Drive. Clean, reliable, with suites and family-friendly amenities.
The Point Orlando Resort: Suites and apartment-style accommodations, kitchen facilities, and proximity to dining and shops. Good for down days and self-catering.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Orlando International Drive: Offers two-room suites, free breakfast, and evening receptions, plus walking access to many restaurants.

Villa or Apartment Options near Disney

Vacation Villas: Popular near Disney, offer full kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and living areas. Ideal for relaxing evenings and preparing meals if you prefer.
Lake Buena Vista Resort Village & Spa: Family suites with kitchenettes, pool area, and walking distance to Disney Springs shuttle service.
Orlando World Center Marriott Villas: Larger villa-style accommodations with resort amenities, pools, and restaurants on site.

Tips for a Smooth Stay

Choose hotels with shuttle services if you prefer not to drive daily to theme parks, especially Universal or Disney.
For International Drive, walkability is a key factor—look for hotels within a few minutes’ walk of restaurants and shops for flexibility on down days.
For villas, confirm kitchen and dining facilities to maximize convenience, especially for an 11-year-old who may want snacks or meals at irregular times.
Check recent reviews focusing on cleanliness, noise levels, and pool availability, as these often vary seasonally.

Overall, splitting your stay gives the best of both worlds—accessibility to Universal, plus a relaxing villa experience near Disney. Suites or one-bedroom apartments are available at multiple properties along International Drive and Lake Buena Vista, balancing comfort, convenience, and family-friendly amenities for your two-week stay.

Help! First time in orlando

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