Hotels in Downtown Orlando

Lakefront Dreams: Experience the Vibrant Heart of Downtown Orlando

Downtown Orlando, the vibrant heart of the City Beautiful, pulses with energy and charm. Nestled around stunning Lake Eola, this urban oasis boasts lush parks, eclectic dining, and a lively arts scene. Explore the iconic Amway Center, catch a show at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, or savor flavors from local eateries. With convenient access to Universal Orlando and Daytona Beach, Downtown Orlando serves as the perfect base for adventure. Whether you're seeking cultural experiences or a relaxing lakeside stroll, Downtown Orlando offers a captivating blend of excitement and tranquility for every traveler. For the best hotel rates in Downtown Orlando and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Downtown Orlando

Downtown Orlando offers vibrant attractions like Universal Studios Florida and Walt Disney World® Resort, perfect for travelers seeking excitement. Universal Studios is ideal for thrill-seekers, while Walt Disney World® is a magical experience for all ages, especially first-time visitors. The Kia Center hosts events and concerts, adding to the city's lively atmosphere. Accommodations range from modern downtown hotels to spacious suites and condo resorts, providing various options for comfort and convenience during your stay. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Downtown Orlando:

1. Near Universal Studios FloridaOpens in a new window: This area is perfect for families and adventure seekers looking to experience the magic of theme parks. It offers a vibrant atmosphere with various entertainment options. Among the hotels, Modern Twist. Perfect Location. Heated PoolOpens in a new window stands out as a budget-friendly 2.5-star option, ideal for families and pet owners, providing amenities like free cribs and highchairs. For a more upscale experience, Universal's Hard Rock HotelOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel, caters to both business and family travelers with facilities like a 24-hour business center and arcade room for kids. Another great choice is Universal’s Loews Portofino Bay HotelOpens in a new window, also a 4.0-star hotel, which is well-equipped for business travelers while also welcoming families with its child-friendly amenities.
2. Near Walt Disney World® ResortOpens in a new window: This location is a family-friendly haven close to some of the world's most famous theme parks. Best Western Auburndale Inn & SuitesOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel, provides essential amenities for business and family travelers, including a 24-hour business center and cribs for children. If you're looking for more adventure, Winter Haven Gardens InnOpens in a new window offers a 2.5-star experience packed with outdoor activities and nearby recreation options. Another affordable option is Hampton Inn Winter HavenOpens in a new window, which not only caters to families but also welcomes pets, providing amenities like service animal support and cribs at no extra charge.
3. Near Kia CenterOpens in a new window: Ideal for sports enthusiasts and families, this area provides convenient access to various sporting events and activities. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Orange City - Deltona, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window is a 2.5-star hotel perfect for business travelers, featuring accessible business amenities and meeting spaces. For families and pet owners, Quality Inn near Blue SpringOpens in a new window offers a 2.5-star experience with child-friendly services and a welcoming pet policy. Another option, 1876 Heritage InnOpens in a new window, is a 3.0-star hotel focused on pet-friendly stays, ensuring a comfortable environment for guests traveling with pets.

What to do in Downtown Orlando

Three days in Downtown Orlando offers a vibrant blend of entertainment, from live music and theater to shopping and sports. The area's scenic lakes and parks provide a beautiful backdrop for outdoor activities, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking both excitement and relaxation. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Downtown Orlando:

• Day 1: Start your adventure in Downtown Orlando with a thrilling visit to Universal Studios Florida, where you can experience world-class attractions and entertainment. After soaking up the excitement, head over to Universal CityWalk for a variety of dining and shopping options, perfect for grabbing a bite or picking up souvenirs. As the day winds down, take a relaxing stroll at Bill Frederick Park, where you can unwind by the scenic lakeside or enjoy the park's beautiful nature trails.
• Day 2: Your day begins at the Orange County Convention Center, a hub of events and exhibitions, where you might catch something interesting depending on the schedule. Next, visit First Baptist Orlando, a notable landmark known for its stunning architecture and welcoming community. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk around Lake Holden, where you can appreciate the serene views and perhaps even enjoy a picnic by the water.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Tinker Field, a historic venue that often hosts various events and offers a glimpse into Orlando's sports culture. Following that, wander over to Lake Eola, a beautiful downtown park perfect for a leisurely walk or a paddleboat ride. Wrap up your day with a visit to Harry P. Leu Gardens, where you can explore picturesque gardens and learn about Florida's native plants in a tranquil setting.

5 tips to find a great Downtown Orlando hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Downtown Orlando is during January, September, and October, when hotel prices are significantly lower. If you’re traveling internationally, aim to book your flight at least five months in advance to secure more affordable rates. To truly experience the main attractions, a stay of at least 3-4 days is recommended. Key highlights in Downtown Orlando include the beautiful lake, providing great value for money for your stay.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Explore fantastic last-minute deals to Downtown Orlando, where you can find a variety of hotel options at competitive prices. To uncover these savings on Hotels.com, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where discounted rates may be available as your travel date approaches. You could also consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and exclusive promotions, helping you secure the best offers without missing out. Enjoy good availability and affordable rates for your Orlando getaway!
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Downtown Orlando.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, keep your location in mind. Staying near major attractions or city centers may offer convenience but usually tends to come at a higher price. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and easy access to the sites you plan to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Become a member of Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program when booking your stay in Downtown Orlando. Earn points for your hotel bookings and progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers. Unlock a range of exclusive rewards, including room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and member-only offers. Join today.

What to eat in Downtown Orlando

Here are some famous dishes in Downtown Orlando, Orlando, Florida, United States of America:

• Fried Chicken: A Southern classic, fried chicken in Downtown Orlando is often marinated in buttermilk, seasoned with a blend of spices, and deep-fried to perfection. It's typically served with sides like collard greens and cornbread, reflecting the community's comfort food traditions. Many local eateries offer their unique twists, making it a must-try dish.
• Cuban Sandwich: This iconic sandwich showcases the Cuban influence in Orlando, featuring layers of roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard pressed between Cuban bread. It's a delightful combination of flavors and textures, perfect for a quick bite while exploring the vibrant downtown area.
• Key Lime Pie: A dessert staple of Florida, key lime pie is known for its tart and creamy filling made from fresh key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and a graham cracker crust. Enjoying a slice at a local café is a refreshing way to end your culinary journey in Orlando.

Best time to go to Downtown Orlando

Downtown Orlando experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 60.6°F (15.9°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 82.6°F (28.1°C). August is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Downtown Orlando, March, April, and July are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light to moderate rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, September to November are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light to moderate rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.