Off property accommodations

Overview

After reviewing our Orlando hotel overview and checking out the Disney World resort categories, you may decide that staying offsite is the best option for your family because…

• The thought of staying in a 450 sq. foot room with little of the 'conveniences of home' doesn't appeal to you.
• You can't afford $300 plus per night at some of Disney's higher-end hotels.
• You have three (or more) kids, and the few Disney hotels that can accommodate your family do not appeal to you.
• You may have reviewed the pros/cons of staying onsite, and the pros/cons of staying offsite and decided that accommodations located off of Disney property are best for you.

Whatever the reason, you're in luck because the Orlando area has plenty of options for hotels, condominiums, and rental homes to suite every budget. Planning a trip now? Book early and save! Find special deals in hot destinations only at Expedia.com!

Which location is best?

You'll find numerous options for hotels, condos, and rental homes within a 20 minute drive of the major theme parks of Walt Disney World. There are three main areas in the region where you'll find the best options: Exits 62 and 68 off of I-4, and also the abundance of hotels and other accommodations off of International Drive in the Lake Buena Vista, Kissimmee, and Orlando area.

Exit 68 off of I-4 is the closest of the three hotel/restaurant areas to the Walt Disney World theme parks. There are a variety of hotel chains and restaurants within a 10 minute drive of the Disney parks. Exit 62 is a bit farther out, but still a short drive to the theme parks. The added distance means you'll save $20-$30 per night on comparable accommodations versus the hotels at exit 68.

A little further out, but still within a 20 minute drive of the Disney theme parks is International Drive. Hotels and accommodations in this area are a bit cheaper than those at the two I-4 exits, and you'll have the added benefit of being closer to SeaWorld and Universal Orlando. This makes it a great location if you're planning on visiting either or both of these outstanding Orlando vacation destinations.

Other things to consider when staying offsite

Here are some other things to consider, and some things you should do when deciding where to stay.

• See if the hotel offers a free breakfast, and whether it's a full, hot breakfast or just a continental breakfast. A full breakfast can easily save you $10-$15 per person per day.
• See if the hotel offers free shuttle service to the parks. Remember though if your bus is stopping at all the parks, you may have a lengthy commute. You may want to still consider renting a car.
• See if kids stay free, and what age is considered a 'kid'. Ages vary by hotel.
• Can you get a suite with a kitchenette? Or at least a room with a refrigerator? Having a place to keep leftovers, drinks, and snacks cold can save you money in the long run.
• How close is the hotel to Disney parks, area restaurants, and other attractions?
• Try calling the hotels' 800 number, and also directly to the hotel. You may be quoted different prices.
• Ask specifically if the hotel has a "Manager's Special" or any other unpublished discounts.
• See if the hotel offers discount tickets to Disney theme parks or other Orlando-area attractions such as Universal Orlando and SeaWorld.