Home to over a dozen theme parks, there’s no shortage of fun things to do in Orlando with kids. To get the most out of your trip to this city of sunshine, you’ll want to stay overnight. Luckily, the best hotels for kids in Orlando are waiting to spoil the whole family with fun and relaxation.
If you are visiting Orlando theme parks, Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando primarily, pay attention to whether the hotel you’re considering is an official resort hotel that provides extra benefits to hotel guests. Look for the designations below as you read through my list.
Disney Resort Hotels and offsite Official Walt Disney World Hotels offer guests Magic Mornings (entry to a park one hour before the public). Guests also receive the ability to select FastPass+ 60 days in advance, in addition to some other perks, like using MagicBands as key access and for room charges at Disney Resort Hotels.
Official Walt Disney World Good Neighbor Hotels meet strict Disney standards when it comes to value, service, and amenities. They do not have the same perks as the two aforementioned designations but are trustworthy places for families to stay.
Universal Orlando Resort Hotel benefits include complimentary water taxi service to the theme parks and early access to select attractions.
In addition, guests of the premium resort hotels (Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel, and Loews Royal Pacific) receive free Universal Express Unlimited ride access, which helps you skip-the-lines at Universal Orlando.
Universal Partner Hotel guests receive select dining and shopping discounts at Universal CityWalk and some theme parks in addition to other small perks.
Booking advice: Through me, you can access outstanding value-added benefits (complimentary daily breakfast for two and much more) at the top three hotels on this list.
These VIP programs are the best way to book these family Orlando luxury hotels with concierge services to help plan your stay. Then, you can find discount Universal Orlando tickets and Walt Disney World tickets on your own.
If you need Disney concierge service at the other properties on this list, you may want to consider a vacation package with Get Away Today who can give you access to a great promo (details below) at select Disney Resort hotels.
If you book hotels or tickets using some links in this post, I may receive a small commission.
1. Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort (Top Pick)
Category: Deluxe – Luxury
Official Walt Disney World Hotel: Yes
What I like: It is my top pick for Orlando family hotels because you can be on a theme park vacation but not feel like it. It offers excellent food, service, a pool deck, and rooms, and you can take advantage of Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits through me.
Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort is the top luxury option for families and where we stay when on an Orlando family vacation.
With six on-site restaurants and bars, three boutiques, and outdoor athletic courts, as well as a 5-acre water park with pools and a lazy river, unwinding is easier than ever.
You can treat yourself to world-class dining at Capa rooftop steakhouse or round up the kids for Breakfast with Goofy and Pals character dining on select mornings. My daughter particularly likes the Hideout Game Room and the water slides.
An onsite Disney concierge helps coordinate park dining reservations and answers your itinerary questions since you receive official Walt Disney World hotel benefits. There is also a hotel shuttle to the parks.
You can read my full Four Seasons Orlando review to understand why we love it.
Reservations: I also can give you access to the best way to book in — Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits that include:
- Daily breakfast for two in the Hotel restaurant
- Hotel/Resort Credit* (based on room category booked):
• Guest Rooms: USD 100 credit per stay
• Suites and Specialty Suites: USD 200 credit per stay
• Private Retreats: USD 200 credit per bedroom per stay - Upgrade of one category, based on availability at time of check-in**
- Welcome note at check-in acknowledging you and your travel agency and the benefits that are being extended
- Complimentary standard Internet in all guest rooms and premium Internet in all suites
*Hotel/Resort Credit may be applied to select incidental charges incurred at the Hotel or Resort. Must be used in conjunction with the initial stay and will be applied at check-out. May not be applied towards the room rate, taxes, resort fees, service charges, conference fees, or any charges from outside vendors. Exclusions may apply; contact the Hotel/Resort for more details.
When a suite is reserved in connection with another guest room or suite, the cumulative credit (based on room category booked) value applies.
The Private Retreats credit applies to Villas and Residences with a minimum average rate per night (before Resort fees and taxes) of USD 1,000.
**Category upgrade based on availability at time of check-in excludes Specialty Suites, Villas and the Private Retreats collection of Villas and Residences.
2. Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando
Category: Deluxe
Universal Orlando Hotel: Yes
What I like: It’s the luxury Universal Orlando Resort hotel option, and everyone in your room will receive a free Universal Express pass to help skip the lines. You also have access to Virtuoso benefits through me.
At Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando, you can experience the seaside charm and beauty of Portofino in Florida.
Brimming with outdoor cafes and shops around the piazza harbor, there’s no shortage of fun and exploration at what is considered the luxury resort at Universal Orlando.
Whether you’re joining in a hula hoop contest by the Roman-style Beach Pool or enjoying a complimentary live show at Musica della Notte, you can get a taste of Italian culture here.
As an overnight guest, you can enjoy Universal Orlando Resort hotel benefits like early access to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, select Volcano Bay attractions, and complimentary entertainment at Universal CityWalk.
It is a busy property, and we have stayed here, too, on the Club Level, which I recommend. If you want to immerse in all things Universal Orlando, you can read my full Loews Portofino Bay Hotel review.
Reservations: You can book through me for access to value-added Virtuoso amenities that include:
*When searching rates, do not input children ages 17 and under as they will be priced as adults. I’m notified when you book and will add them after I contact you about your reservation.
3. JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes
Category: Deluxe – Luxury
Theme Park Hotel Affiliation: No
What I like: It’s an excellent option for active families who want to take advantage of outdoor recreation and not feel like they’re on a theme park vacation. Marriott Bonvoy points can be earned and redeemed here — you can also ask me about a Marriott Luminous VIP rate.
If you’d like to enjoy a relaxing Orlando family vacation that isn’t quite so centered on theme parks, the 500-acre JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes is for you.
Recreational activities include an 18-hole Greg Norman golf course, mountain biking trails, and fishing excursions thanks to a location on Grande Lakes. You can also hit the water on guided canoe or kayak tours with a Florida naturalist.
Other highlights include the recently added water park with 3 slides and the Aquaventure 360 water obstacle course families can tackle together after floating along the lazy river and swimming in the outdoor pool. Resort guests also have access to the pool and spa at sister property, The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes, which is next door.
There is even an onsite 7000-square-foot vegetable and fruit garden that supplies the hotel with produce in addition to a nano-brewery.
The hotel offers a shuttle to Walt Disney World, SeaWorld, and Universal Orlando theme parks.
Reservations: You can book in with Marriott Luminous benefits that include:
4. Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek
Category: Deluxe
Official Walt Disney World Hotel: Yes
What I like: You can access most Waldorf Astoria amenities at a lower price point. Also, Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek’s pool has been voted one of the best in the nation.
Signia Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek is one of the best family hotels in Orlando because of its 3-acre private waterpark with a lazy river, water slide, and poolside cabanas. The hotel has recently renovated, upgrading it to one of Hilton’s newest premium brands.
Between the resort and its adjacent sister property, Waldorf Astoria Orlando, guests can dine at twelve elegant restaurants, offering signature dining, small bites, and late-night bar snacks.
Guests also enjoy the WA Kids’ Club, a supervised facility at Waldorf Astoria for ages 5 –12, the Waldorf Astoria spa, and the Waldorf Astoria golf course.
Shuttles transport guests to all four Disney parks and Disney Springs, and some rooms offer views of the Magic Kingdom’s fireworks show.
Reservations: Book the discounted Hilton Honors member rate (it’s free to join).
5. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Category: Deluxe
Disney Resort Hotel: Yes
What I like: Animal-centric programming and wildlife viewing that all ages appreciate. It’s as close to a safari as one might get in the U.S. and comes with Disney Resort Hotel benefits.
Experience the circle of life like never before at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. This resort features a wildlife preserve home to select species of exotic animals and indigenous African greenery, which you and your family can learn about through your room’s complimentary Wildlife Field Guide.
Little ones can enjoy fun programs led by Animal Specialists, and all guests are welcome to partake in the Wanyama up-close safari and banquet.
You can take a dip in the 11,000-square-foot Uzima Springs Pool, roast marshmallows over an open fire at Jambo House, or catch a poolside movie under the stars.
For grown-ups who’d like to slip away for award-winning African dining, supervised playtime at Simba’s Clubhouse and in-room babysitters are available for booking.
Reservations: Book with a Walt Disney World vacation package.
6. Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Category: Deluxe
Disney Resort Hotel: Yes
What I like: You can walk to Magic Kingdom and book onsite character dining.
Prepare to be dazzled at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, where the gate to the Magic Kingdom is only a short walk from your guest room (you can hop on the Resort Monorail at the resort, too).
A testament to new-school glamour, this stunning resort hosts restaurants like Steakhouse 71 and California Grill which offers rooftop dining with a view of the Magic Kingdom’s firework show.
Disney’s Contemporary Resort has two swimming pools with two water slides and some delightful spa treatments.
If you’d like to tour Bay Lake or the Seven Seas Lagoon, you can rent a motorboat or join one of the resort’s guided fishing tours.
Reservations: Book with a Walt Disney World vacation package.
7. Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort
Category: Deluxe
Official Walt Disney World Hotels: Yes
What I like: They’re within walking distance to Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios in about 15 minutes. Guests can earn and redeem Marriott points at both.
Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort is a combination of two resorts that share the same amenities. Swan is a Westin, and Dolphin is a Sheraton, so Marriott loyalists will see touches from each brand around the respective resorts.
For families, I would lean toward Dolphin mostly because the supervised Camp Dolphin (ages 4 – 12) is located here (unless you must sleep in a Westin Heavenly Bed).
The resorts have undergone some recent renovations but have always been designed to bring fun and relaxation to all ages. Parents can decompress in the Mandara Spa. The aquatic oasis allows you to make a splash in three acres of glistening pools, waterslides, hot tubs, and more.
Treat yourself to incredible steaks and succulent seafood at Shula’s Steakhouse, or take a quick stroll down to Disney’s BoardWalk for tons of shopping and family fun.
The large Orlando family resort complex has two Disney planning centers onsite and free scheduled transportation to all Walt Disney World parks and resorts.
Reservations: Book the discounted Marriott Bonvoy member rate (it’s free to join) at Swan and Dohin.
8. Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
Category: Deluxe
Disney Resort Hotel: Yes
What I like: Kids love the 3-acre water park, and you can walk to Epcot.
Adventure on the water awaits at the renowned Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. Within minutes of Disney World parks, this New England-style yacht club offers a variety of boat rentals from the on-property marina.
Families can make some waves at the enormous Stormalong Bay water park on one of the tallest water slides at the Walt Disney World resorts or enjoy fine dining for all ages at the Yachtsman Steakhouse.
Disney Skyliner gondolas transport guests to Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This resort is pet-friendly, so be sure to bring your furry companions along for a lakeside stroll.
For large families or those who want to feel a little closer to home, deluxe villas are available with fully equipped kitchens, laundry units, and spacious bedrooms.
Reservations: Book with a Walt Disney World vacation package.
9. Renaissance Orlando Resort and Spa
Category: Deluxe
Official Walt Disney World Hotel: Yes
What I like: This feels more like an upscale boutique hotel that offers kid-friendly amenities like bunk beds in some rooms.
Whether you’re looking for excitement at every turn or blissful tranquility, you can find it at Renaissance Orlando Resort and Spa.
This recently renovated hotel combines a chic, modern atmosphere with family-friendly fun, and features amenities like a massive zero-entry pool, the game-packed Kids Zone, and convenient valet and self-parking services.
Transportation to the nearby Disney World parks is complimentary, and you’re never far from the best shopping and dining in Orlando.
Reservations: Book the discounted Marriott Bonvoy rate (it’s free to join).
10. Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Category: Deluxe
Disney Resort Hotel: Yes
What I like: It’s one of the best Orlando resorts for families because of the onsite Snow White character dinner, Club Level rooms with Disney Signature Services (enhanced vacation planning support).
The magic of the Great American Northwest is captured here at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge.
This wondrous Disney resort is inspired by the untamed wilderness of American National Parks and nestled in the beauty of towering pine forests, bubbling creeks, and nature trails that guests can explore on foot and by bike or boat rentals.
Guided fishing excursions are heaps of fun for beginners and expert wranglers alike.
The whole family can join Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs for a banquet straight out of a fairy tale or splash in one of the two themed pool areas with a water slide and water activity area.
Reservations: Book with a Walt Disney World vacation package.
11. Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Category: Deluxe
Disney Resort Hotel: Yes
What I like: This resort has been around forever and even my husband has fond memories of visiting as a kid. It’s like Hawaii in Orlando and also offers the luxury of Club Level rooms.
Please note: The Polynesian Village Resort is undergoing extensive renovations throughout 2024, including the construction of the new Island Tower. Set to open in December 2024, these homelike accommodations can sleep up to nine. Reservations can be made beginning in early June.
Say “aloha” to the ultimate exotic getaway at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. This lush, tropical hotel honors the classic vibrance of island life with amazing fire-dancing shows, family-style luaus, and fun by the fireside at night.
Whether it’s winning a game of volleyball on the sand court, taking a dip in the sparkling Lava Pool, or enjoying live music at Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace, there’s fun for the whole family to be found here.
Enjoy monorail transport to Epcot and the Magic Kingdom. This is one of the best Orlando resorts for families seeking a little traditional island fun, even with a white sandy beach.
Reservations: Book with a Walt Disney World vacation package.
12. Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando
Category: Deluxe
Universal Orlando Hotel: Yes
What I like: Hard Rock hotels typically don’t have a kid-friendly vibe, but many families stay in this one.
Immerse yourself in a world of glamour, music, and wild fun at the Hard Rock Hotel Orlando. With the electrifying Sound of Your Stay experience, you can rent a Fender guitar to rock out in your room or jam to an iconic collection of vinyl records on your own authentic Crosley turntable.
Whether you rent a private cabana to lounge in the shade or take the kids to play on Hard Rock’s poolside sand beach, you’ll enjoy the latest and greatest music hits all day long.
Going for a dip in the 12,000-square-foot swimming pool? The underwater sound system keeps the music flowing, so you never miss a beat.
Or, plunge into the water on the 260-square-foot water slide. Other poolside family activities include a DJ and outdoor games like ping pong.
This best Orlando family hotel even has a supervised kids’ club and a kids’ area to make going out to eat fun in The Kitchen restaurant.
Reservations: Yes, it’s a Hard Rock, but you’ll book this one through Loews Hotels or perhaps Expedia.com.
13. Floridays Resort Orlando
Category: Moderate
Walt Disney World Good Neighbor Hotel: Yes
What I like: This is one of the best Orlando resorts for families because it is ALL two-bedroom and three-bedroom suites!
Tired of cramped, uncomfortable hotel rooms? Floridays Resort Orlando offers two- and three-bedroom suites with a minimum floor space of 1,017 feet, almost triple the size of most Orlando hotel rooms.
Each suite houses a full kitchen, a master bath with a walk-in shower and jacuzzi tub, and even a washer and dryer.
The on-site Palm Cafe provides casual yet elegant dining and one-stop shopping. Need groceries but don’t want to leave the comfort of your room? Instacart services can deliver Publix groceries right to your door.
A complimentary shuttle to Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld Orlando theme parks is included with the resort fee. And, look at that fun pool!
Reservations: Book direct or check prices on Expedia.
14. Holiday Inn Resort Orlando Suites — Waterpark
Category: Moderate
Walt Disney World Good Neighbor Hotel: Yes
What I like: This isn’t your typical Holiday Inn. The lure of the large outdoor water park may make it easier to leave the theme parks at the end of the day.
Dedicated to making families feel at home, Holiday Inn Resort Orlando Suites – Waterpark provides everything you need to stay comfortable and enjoy your vacation.
Every suite comes standard with a separate living room, master bedroom, kitchenette, HDTV, and at least 485 square feet of living space.
It’s the only all-suite Holiday Inn in Orlando, and another reason it’s popular is that it has multiple dining options onsite.
Excitement abounds with the outdoor waterpark and Olympic-sized pool, live entertainment, arcade, 4D movie theater, and the Bank Heist Laser Challenge.
This resort also offers convenient laundry valet, free shuttle (included in the resort fee – make sure you ask for the promo code from the front desk before booking) to the Magic Kingdom and Epcot.
Reservations: Holiday Inn is part of IHG so book using the IHG member discount (free to join).
15. Embassy Suites by Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista
Category: Moderate
Walt Disney World Good Neighbor Hotel: Yes
What I like: It’s an all-suite kid-friendly Orlando hotel with a splash pad and free breakfast.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista a popular for its two-room suites. This kid-friendly Orlando hotel provides complimentary shuttle service to all four Walt Disney World Resort theme parks, Disney Springs, Universal and SeaWorld.
It’s the only Embassy Suites in Orlando and includes multiple sports courts: pickleball, volleyball, tennis, and basketball. Guests also enjoy a putting green, splash pad, an indoor and outdoor pool, and fire pits.
Enjoy a complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast every morning after waking up in your suite, and unwind with a dive-in movie or a poolside cocktail.
On evenings when you’re not relaxing by the on-site fishing docks or in one of three rejuvenating spa centers, treat yourself to free snacks and drinks at a complimentary Evening Reception for guests only.
Reservations: Book using the Hilton Honors member rate (it’s free to join).
16. Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress
Category: Moderate
Theme Park Hotel Affiliations: No
What I like: It’s a large resort with opportunities to be active in nature — we have stayed here. They offer a complimentary shuttle to Disney and Universal theme parks.
At Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress, fun and rejuvenation await across 1,500 acres of the lush Florida landscape.
Loaded with outdoor activities for both kids and adults, this resort offers rock climbing, golf, hiking, and swimming in a gorgeous lagoon-style pool.
Camp Hyatt sparks your little ones’ imagination with fun crafts, scavenger hunts, water sports, marshmallow roasting, and so much more.
No matter what you’re craving on your vacation, you can find everything from light bites to upscale fine dining at five unique on-site eateries. You can get your theme park visits in, too, with their free shuttle service.
Reservations: Book direct or shop vacation packages.
17. Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek
Category: Moderate
Theme Park Hotel Affiliations: No
What I like: Family bunk beds are always a plus in addition to a robust swimming pool area.
Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort is famous for its incredible spa services and Deep Blu Seafood Grill. Dive into the hotel’s five swimming pools, two lazy rivers, and dual splash pads, or tee off at the private mini-golf course.
The renowned Blue Harmony Spa is ready to pamper you with full-body treatments, massage therapy, manicures, and so much more.
Located on over 500 acres of stunning Florida woodlands, Wyndham Grand Orlando is only a free shuttle ride away from your favorite Walt Disney World theme parks.
Reservations: Book the Wyndham Rewards member rate (free to join) at a discount.
18. Coco Key Hotel and Water Park Resort
Category: Moderate
Universal Partner Hotel: Yes
What I like: A partially covered enormous water park makes this definitely one of the best kid-friendly hotels in Orlando.
Look no further than the recently renovated Coco Key Hotel and Water Park for an ultra-fun hotel stay.
The unique canopy-covered outdoor water park spans over 54,000 square feet of the Florida tropics. It is located on International Drive, where many of the best things to do in Orlando await.
Boasting a massive arcade, two restaurants, a poolside tiki bar, and a fitness center, Coco Key Hotel is jam-packed with things to do when you’re not out exploring the city.
Convenient shuttle services to Universal Studios Orlando and Disney World make it easy to hit your tourist destinations, and the I-Ride Trolley is available to tour the city’s shops, sights, and nightlife.
Reservations: Book a vacation package with Universal Orlando tickets.
19. Loews Sapphire Falls
Category: Moderate
Universal Orlando Hotel: Yes
What I like: Swaying palm trees and waterfalls inspired by the Caribbean add to the tropical vibe.
Why Loews Sapphire Falls is one of the best family hotels in Orlando is that it’s home to the largest pool of all the Universal Orlando Resort hotels.
Kids love splashing down the water slide surrounded by waterfalls and playing in the sand on one of the two beaches. There is also a children’s water play area, cabana rentals, and a huge hot tub.
The resort also offers an evening kids’ camp should parents want to enjoy dinner alone.
Your stay is meant to feel like you’re on a tropical island getaway and the colorful, yet tasteful room decor in relaxing blue hues reflects this.
Check out the small Kids’ Suite, which has a kids’ bedroom with two twin beds that connects to a king bed master suite.
Reservations: Loews Hotels .
20. The Grove Resort & Water Park Orlando
Category: Moderate
Walt Disney World Good Neighbor Hotel: Yes
What I like: Spacious suites with resort amenities, including a water park on a lakeside setting (with a full-service spa).
The Grove Resort & Water Park Orlando is meant to be a destination resort where you can come and not really need to leave.
One-, two-, and three-bedroom suites provide the comforts of home though you can also book a standard hotel room size.
Family activities happen throughout the day, but the resort highlight is definitely the Surfari water park. Try to hang ten in the FlowRider wave pool where you can actually take surfing lessons.
Otherwise, float along the lazy river, splash down one of the two water slides, swim in the zero-entry pool, or play in the water activity area. You can also try your hand at a variety of games in the arcade.
The resort is located on Lake Austin, and guests can embark on water sports and other activities from the resort’s pier. Scheduled transportation to Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and Sea World is available.
Reservations: Expedia.com.
21. Lake Buena Vista Resort Village
Category: Moderate
Walt Disney World Good Neighbor Hotel: Yes
What I like: Kids love the pirate-themed pool at this all-suite resort with up to four bedrooms.
Lake Buena Vista Resort Village is very popular with large families and for multigenerational travel because the fully-furnished resort condos range from one to four bedrooms.
Take advantage of having a kitchen with the resort’s Publix grocery delivery service. Guests enjoy free shuttle service to Walt Disney World, Universal, and SeaWorld theme parks, included with the resort fee.
Families love the onsite Pizza Hut Express in addition to sit-down dining options and an onsite convenience store.
Families spend tons of time at the zero-entry (go ahead and pull a lounger in) Pirate plunge pool with a water slide through the ship and canons, in addition to activities offered by Kids’ Club. Rest assured, one may decompress at the Relaxation pool or in the full-service spa.
Reservations: Expedia.com.
22. Cabana Bay Beach Resort
Category: Moderate and Value
Universal Orlando Hotel: Yes
What I like: It’s fun to immerse in a throw-back resort like this with a bowling alley and arcade. It’s a value option but does offer moderately-priced Poolside Suites with direct exterior pool access.
Inspired by the classic designs of ’50s- and ’60s-era Florida beach resorts, Cabana Bay Beach Resort is full of surprises.
Take a dive in one of two huge zero-entry swimming pools, score a strike in the Galaxy Bowl ten-lane bowling alley, and snap a selfie with the Minions on your way to the Jack LaLanne fitness studio. Kids (and parents) will love the retro arcade that even has skee ball.
Family suites sleep up to six people, and some two-bedroom suites have views of the Volcano Bay theme park.
Like the other Universal Orlando Resorts, guests at Cabana Bay Beach Resort have access to the complimentary water taxi shuttle service and can use amenities at the other hotels.
Reservations: Book direct.
23. The Point Hotel & Suites Orlando
Category: Value
Theme Park Hotel Affiliations: No
What I like: It’s a smaller boutique hotel within walking distance of Universal Orlando Resort.
The Point Hotel & Suites Orlando is known for its hospitality and modern, relaxing atmosphere. Multiple room sizes are available, from cozy studios to suites outfitted with full kitchens and balconies. The glistening outdoor pool and great eats from the Cabana Bar and Grille are fun for the whole family.
While it doesn’t boast the long list of amenities that other best hotels for kids in Orlando on this list have, they do have a (usually) reasonably priced two-bedroom suite that sleeps up to 8 people.
Reservations: Expedia.com
24. Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Category: Value
Disney Resort Hotel: Yes
What I like: Disney characters can be seen in art all over the resort, and guests enjoy a huge swimming pool and play area for a value hotel.
Lose yourself in the enchanting landscape of your favorite Disney and Pixar movies at the one and only Disney’s Art of Animation Resort.
Built on a legacy of inspiration and creativity, this resort is teeming with hand-drawn artwork, bits of history, and interactive sets from movies like Cars, Finding Nemo, and The Little Mermaid. Family suites here sleep up to six people.
Satisfy all of your cravings at the Landscape of Flavors, where American-inspired classic dishes are always being freshly prepared.
Home to the largest pool of all Disney resorts, the exciting Righteous Reef playground, and your favorite movies under the stars, there’s always magic to be discovered here.
Another feature that makes this one of Orlando’s best hotels for families is that you can take the Disney Skyliner tram to Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Reservations: Book with a Walt Disney World vacation package.
25. Wyndham Disney Springs Resort Area
Category: Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Resort (Deluxe); Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista Resort (Value)
Walt Disney World Good Neighbor Hotel: Yes
What I like: This is a nice way to book a value hotel because the amenities are shared between the two Wyndhams. You can also walk to Disney Springs and book character breakfast onsite.
Wyndham also has a two-resort complex with their Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Resort and Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista in the Disney Springs Resort Area.
Experience magic and fantasy in a breathtaking lake house setting at Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Resort, or choose affordable rooms at Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista Resort.
Both share access to the Oasis Aquatic Pool Playground with a splash pad and zero-entry pool area in addition to a large outdoor swimming pool and hot tub. Guests also enjoy Disney character breakfasts.
The kids will have a blast at the game-packed arcade, and you can slip away for a workout at the 24/7 fitness center. The resort runs shuttle services every 30 minutes to all four Disney parks.
Reservations: Book the Wyndham Rewards member rate (free to join) at a discount.
My Favorite Family & Kid-Friendly Hotels in Orlando for All Your Needs
Kid-Friendly Hotels in Orlando with Water Slides
And, this city full of theme parks and sunshine dials up the family fun on their hotel pool decks. Many of the hotels on this list have water slides. Here are a few popular choices.
Four Seasons Orlando is the top pick for luxury hotels on this list because they balance kid fun with adult comforts well. The pool area doesn’t always feel busy because there’s a lot to do between multiple swimming pools, a splash pad, water slides, and a lazy river.
Several kid-friendly hotels in Orlando on this list are water parks, too. Find dueling water slides, a wave pool, lazy river, and a zero-entry pool at The Grove Resort and Water Park. If you need to be near Universal Orlando Resort, Coco Key‘s 14 water slides are sure to entertain. The 54,000-square-foot park is mostly under a canopy to protect guests from the sun. Holiday Inn Resort Orlando Suites — Waterpark offers a water jungle gym, water slides, and many family pool activities.
If you’re interested in going big, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort boasts one of the tallest water slides of the Walt Disney World Resort hotels in its 3-acre water park.
A Note About Kid-Friendly All-Inclusive Resorts in Orlando, Florida
If you read online lists claiming to feature kid-friendly all-inclusive resorts in Orlando, you’ll find that the resorts and hotels mentioned aren’t truly all-inclusive. All-inclusive means that most food and beverages and many activities are included with your room rate. None of the resorts on this list are all-inclusive, but some can include breakfast and other perks.
- Four Seasons Orlando: If you book in as a Four Seasons Preferred Partner guest, you will receive a $100 spa credit and daily breakfast for two per room.
- JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes: Complimentary breakfast for two and a welcome amenity are available for Marriott Luminous guests.
- Loews Portofino Bay: Through Virtuoso guests receive complimentary daily Continental breakfast for two, complimentary lunch for two, a room upgrade subject to availability, and more.
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista includes breakfast in your rate.
What are the best Orlando hotels for toddlers?
There are so many great Orlando hotels that are toddler-friendly, but the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort is one of the best. Tots will love the Breakfast with Goofy and Pals character dining on select mornings, and the hotel is also equipped with a Hideout Game Room.
While toddlers will be just fine at any of the hotels on this list, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge may just blow their minds. The Uwanja Camp water playground has a section with activities for kids ages 4 and under near the zero-entry Samawati Springs Pool. They’ll love the zebras, giraffes, and other animals on the property in addition to being surrounded by Disney magic. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge also offers supervised playtime at Simba’s Clubhouse, and in-room babysitters are also available for booking.
Best Kid-Themed Hotels in Orlando
I receive questions about kid-themed hotels in Orlando. This usually means hotels with rooms that are decked out like favorite characters. With so many theme parks nearby, there are some incredible themed rooms in Orlando.
At Loews Portofino Bay, you can book the Despicable Me Kids’ Suite with loads of Minion decor in the kids’ room and a separate king bed room for parents. Disney’s Art of Animation hotel has multiple themed room options, including a Little Mermaid Standard room. There are also Lion King, Cars, and Finding Nemo family suites.
What are the best Orlando hotels for large families?
If you are traveling with an active family, the JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes has a host of outdoor recreational activities including a golf course, mountain biking trails, and fishing excursions. With its 3-acre private water park, equipped with a lazy river, water slide, and poolside cabanas, Hilton Orlando Bonnett Creek is one of the best family hotels in Orlando. Lastly, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort is another great option for big families, as its deluxe villas are fully equipped with kitchens, laundry units, and large bedrooms.
What do you think are the best hotels in Orlando for families?
Katie Dillon is the managing editor of La Jolla Mom. She helps readers plan San Diego vacations through her hotel expertise (that stems from living in a Four Seasons hotel) and local connections. Readers have access to exclusive discounts on theme park tickets (like Disneyland and San Diego Zoo) and perks at luxury hotels worldwide through her. She also shares insider tips for visiting major cities worldwide, like Hong Kong, London, Paris, and Shanghai, that her family has either lived in or visits regularly (or both).
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