Image Courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes
Known as the ultimate destination for family entertainment, Orlando, Florida offers more than just theme parks. It also boasts some standout hotels that cater to travelers of all types (again, not just theme park-goers). Art galleries, rooftop bars, chic cabanas and lagoon pools await.
Read on for Fora’s short list of the best hotels in Florida’s urban resort. Whether you're visiting for the magic of Walt Disney World or the cultural richness of Downtown Orlando, these hotels stand out for their prime locations and amenities, along with exceptional service.
Or, if you’re ready to head to Orlando, reach out to Fora to get started. You’ll get matched with an expert advisor who can guide you to the best hotel in Orlando based on your travel style, group and goals for your trip. Plus, they can unlock killer travel perks – at your hotel, and in some cases, at the theme parks themselves.
1. The Conrad Orlando
Image courtesy of the Conrad Orlando
Sexy, contemporary and sophisticated, this recently opened luxury hotel is a great option for a more refined getaway in Orlando. Guests come for its massive swimming pool — with a circumference of one kilometer, you can even kayak around it — but stay for the sleek suites and spacious rooms. With understated design and chic decor (breezy outdoor hammocks, abstract wallpaper), 80 percent of the rooms have balconies, and from one side of the property you can see Epcot, Disney and watch fireworks over Lake Buena Vista. The Conrad also offers a variety of upscale amenities (like room service, cozy fire pits and a vintage tiki lounge), making it one of the best hotels in the area
Fora Perks at Conrad Orlando: $100 food / beverage credit, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
2. Waldorf Astoria Orlando
Image courtesy of the Waldorf Astoria Orlando
“What makes the Waldorf Astoria in Orlando stand out from the crowd? Most people think of Orlando as a family getaway, but the Waldorf Astoria fits the bill for an adults-only escape,” said Fora Advisor Elizabeth Kaczka.
The Waldorf Astoria Orlando earns a spot on this list in part due to its recent renovation, which transformed the hotel from head to toe. Offering deluxe suites complete with lovely views of the hotel’s 18-hole golf course, the luxury resort & spa offers something for everyone. Don’t miss a treatment at the stellar on-site spa, a meal at one of the award-winning dining venues and a pool day complete with a private cabana rental. There’s plenty to do for little ones, too, from a lazy river to a waterslide. It’s also a dog-friendly hotel.
Fora Perks at Waldorf Astoria Orlando: $100 food / beverage credit, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible
3. Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort
Image courtesy of Four Seasons Resort Orlando
Nestled within the gates of Walt Disney World Resort, this Five-Star, Five-Diamond resort & spa is one of Fora’s all-time favorites in Orlando. It’s located in Lake Buena Vista (also called Disney Springs), and is a home-run of a resort, with a lovely blend of luxury and top-tier amenities.
“Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort is perfect for Disney fanatics,” Fora Advisor Lindsay Vaughn said. “The resort offers various room options, including guest rooms with park views. There's also a free theme park shuttle for easy access to Walt Disney World.”
Guests can enjoy world-class dining and a stunning golf course on-site, a lagoon swimming pool, impressive fitness center and luxurious spa — all just steps from Walt Disney World resort.
In addition to the Four Seasons’ excellent proximity to the theme parks, the 10/10 kid’s club & game house make it a top choice for families, especially for those with kids of different ages.
Fora Perks at Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort: When you book Four Seasons through Fora, you will enjoy exclusive benefits. Your advisor will be pleased to give you more details.
4. Grand Bohemian Hotel Orlando, Autograph Collection
Image courtesy of Grand Bohemian Hotel Orlando
Boasting a blend of art, atmosphere & exceptional service, the Grand Bohemian Hotel Orlando, Florida offers guests a unique experience starting at check-in. First, its art gallery showcases a mix of local and international artists, with pieces ranging from paintings and sculptures to glassworks and jewelry. And the special on-site restaurants include Altira, a rooftop pool lounge serving light fare, and La Boheme, featuring a Sunday jazz brunch. Adding to its appeal: the hotel is also just 30 minutes away from Lake Buena Vista (the location of the theme parks, including Magic Kingdom and Seaworld).
5. Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando Resort
Image courtesy of Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
Guests are transported to the set of an Italian seaside village when they check in to this family-friendly four-star hotel, which was modeled after its namesake town in Italy.
“Loews Portofino Bay Hotel is the perfect sweet spot: close to all the Universal thrills and a tranquil hideaway to relax and recharge,” Fora Advisor Folashade Otuyelu said. “One moment, you are right in the thick of all the fun, and the next, you’re unwinding from the intensity of the day.”
With its stunning waterfront views, Italian style and proximity to Universal Orlando Resort, Loews Portofino Bay Hotel is undoubtedly one of the best hotels in the area. Guests love its water slide, modeled after a Roman aqueduct, nearby hot tubs and beach cabanas. We also love the hotel's club upgrades and options (your advisor can give you more details).
Fora Perks at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando Resort: $100 food / beverage credit, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
6. Hilton Orlando
Image courtesy of Hilton Orlando
Situated near Orlando's top attractions, including Universal Orlando Resort and Walt Disney World Resort, the four-star Hilton Orlando offers a family-friendly vibe and enviable location. Set on 26 acres, this luxurious retreat offers a complimentary shuttle to the theme parks — but the on-site amenities are worth noting, as well. First, guests enjoy a water park complete with an on-site lazy river and water slide. There’s also an adults-only outdoor pool with poolside cabanas. Adults will have plenty to do here, too, including a treatment at the spa or a gourmet meal at one of its fine dining options, such as the elegant Trabucco, inspired by a seaside trattoria.
7. The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes
Image courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes
Nestled amid 500 acres of lush tropical landscape, this five-star hotel in Grande Lakes, Florida offers guests a serene escape from the bustle of Downtown Orlando and the theme parks. (Note there is a shuttle service to the Walt Disney World Parks, SeaWorld, including Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Universal Studios).
With its spacious rooms, deluxe suites and rejuvenating spa, this hotel earns its place as one of the best hotels in Orlando. Other amenities include the outdoor pool — complete with chic cabanas — and 72-par golf course. At the Ritz-Carlton Orlando, don’t miss a meal at one of the on-site restaurants, such as the award-winning Knife & Spoon.
Fora Perks at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes: Personalized welcome amenity, $100 food / beverage credit, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
8. The Nona Wave Hotel
Image courtesy of the Nona Wave hotel
Located roughly 30 minutes from the parks, the Wave is wonderfully secluded from the bustling Magic Kingdom, Epcot and other theme parks compared to many other Orlando hotels on this list. Its location within the Lake Nona community offers guests the opportunity to explore the community's parks, trails and outdoor spaces. The hotel itself boasts a sleek, modern design and a farm-to-table concept, offering guests a taste of the region’s fresh cuisine. We recommend the hotel for travelers coming to and from a cruise; the Wave is only a 10-minute drive from Orlando International Airport and a forty-minute drive to the cruise terminal.
Ready to level-up your trip to Orlando? Reach out to Fora to get matched with an expert advisor. They’ll connect you with the best hotel for your needs, taking into account your travel style and group size, and unlock extra travel perks to boot.
