Did you travel this holiday season? We did! And a stay in one of our favorite cities – Orlando – was the very first stop on our trip. But this time we did something a little different…we stayed at a hotel off Disney property. As I booked the reservation I started thinking of just how many hotels there are to choose from in Orlando. And while Disney has lots of fun hotels onsite, there are fabulous hotels beyond Walt Disney World, many of which offer perks that Disney hotels don’t.
Here are just a few hotels that you should check out if you’re looking to stay beyond Walt Disney World:
Caribe Royale
The Caribe Royale is one of the preferred and favorite hotels in all of Orlando, and it even has a convention center attached so if you are there for an event, you don’t even have to leave. Like Disney, every detail is seen to at this location, with the rooms being filled with the best appointed furniture money can buy. You can stay in the main hotel, or in one of the special villas, where guests are treated to the best service money can buy. Two pools keep you busy, but if you are staying in Orlando to visit WDW, you’ll love the proximity to the parks.
Wyndham Bonnet Creek Resort
My friends absolutely rave about this resort! The Wyndham Bonnet Creek Resort is in an area where it is easy to show off the unique landscape and natural areas of Florida. Overlooking a lake and natural creek reserve, the Wyndham has plenty of on site entertainment for the active family. The pools and lazy rivers are the draw outside, and the large rooms and dining options keep everyone happy inside. The location is perfect for a stay that is meant for both the parks and other places in Orlando.
Villas of Grand Cypress
This modern and professional hotel option is great for anyone that is combining business with pleasure while at Walt Disney World. The atmosphere makes it easy to help you focus and get work done, but also leaves plenty to look forward to at the end of the night. The clean and spacious rooms make it easy to call this place home at the end of the night. Fit golf into the length of your day to put together a vacation that is everything you want.
Castle Hotel
For a cute boutique destination for the couple taking a getaway to Walt Disney World, this Marriott property is incredible. Every detail is seen to, but it’s the decor that makes it so special. Young couples will love the vibe and atmosphere, and the fact that there is always something happening on site so you don’t need to head out or be on the lookout for entertainment in the evenings. Its small size keeps the focus on the guests, and really makes for a romantic stay while you are visiting the parks. Now in close proximity to the Orlando Eye, Aquarium, and Ripley’s Believe it or Not, there’s tons to do around this pet friendly hotel (allows up to 2 pets per room, pet weight restrictions my apply).
Marriott World Center
With perfect proximity to the theme parks, amazing restaurants, and a championship golf course, the Marriott Wold Center is the perfect getaway for any traveler. This Orlando hotel has nearly 2,000 rooms and over 100 suites, most of which have an amazing view of Orlando and the surrounding parks. Be sure to ask for a room as close to the 28th floor as you can get for the best view. And whatever you do, don’t miss the resort’s Falls Pool Oasis, featuring two 200-foot winding waterslides, a 90-foot speed slide, kid’s splash park and multiple pools. 
There’s no doubt why this resort was my absolute favorite when I was a kid!
What are your favorite Orlando hotels beyond Walt Disney World?
