Orlando Florida has seven distinct areas where vacationers can stay as a home base for visiting the many theme parks and recreational spots. It can be quite a daunting task to carry out, so here are some tips that may help you choose the best place that will suit your vacation needs (and budget) during your stay in this family entertainment mecca.

South of Disney World (Kissimmee area - Highway 192)

Over the years, highway 192 has been a well-known destination for many of the tourists visiting Orlando. With its many restaurants, good golf courses, and family attractions, many visitors consider this area an excellent one for finding hotel accommodations. Hotel prices are less expensive here compared to hotels in other areas. However, many of the structures are aging as most were built in the late 1970’s. Many of these hotels are not connected with national brands.

North of Disney World

Also known as the Lake Buena Vista area, this is the newest location for places to stay in Orlando County and is managed by the Walt Disney Corporation. The hotels here were built starting in the early 1990’s to the present and are mostly associated with the national hotel chains. The Lake Buena Vista area hosts great shopping and dining within a few miles radius.

Disney World Resort Properties

For a Disney enthusiast, the resort itself is the best option to scout for a good hotel. Obviously, it will be the closest to Disney World and free shuttle services to the parks run every thirty minutes. Disney World hotels are run at the highest standards so there is a high probability for an excellent stay. However, these hotel rooms only allow up to four people in a single room and as compared to similar quality hotels outside the Disney World property, the prices can be almost double. There is a lot of value, however, in not having to make the daily car trips back and forth to Disney World.

Universal Studios Orlando Area

There are also some good options that can be considered in Universal Studios area, but not as much as there is in other areas of Orlando County. Only a smattering of hotels can be found in this area with the lack of competition resulting in prices that are not really that attractive.

Downtown Orlando

An Orlando vacation means visiting the theme parks and beautiful attractions that this region has to offer. Most likely, you will not enjoy the traffic hassles of long trips from downtown to the theme parks - not to mention the time that you will be wasting traveling thirty minutes or more to and from Disney World each day. There are just too many good alternatives to staying downtown.

Orlando County Convention Center Area

Only a few minutes from SeaWorld, this area can be a good choice for those who will be going primarily to that park. However, the prices here are a little more expensive while the amenities offered by the hotels are mostly geared for business travelers than for families. This area is a natural choice for those combining business with a vacation.

SeaWorld / International Drive Area

The International Drive area is our favorite area to stay in when vacationing with young children. The number of quality “villa resorts” in the area is the reason. For the same price as a decent hotel room, you can be in a two bedroom villa with full kitchen, living room, whirlpool bath and screened-in veranda. These resorts have lakes, pools, activity centers and other amenities that children (and adults) love. You will be especially appreciative of these resorts if you have some non-park days on your itinerary.

Orlando offers a large variety of different options for lodging. By reviewing the different choices described in this article, you will be well on your way to making the right decision for a great Orlando vacation.