Disney resorts
Disney transport to every park
For young kids, the Disney bubble is hard to beat: themed pools, character dining and Early Theme Park Entry.
- No driving
- Early park entry
- Themed family suites
- Higher prices
Family Hotels in Orlando Florida
The best family hotels in Orlando, Florida: resorts with water parks and lazy rivers, family suites, vacation homes and Disney and Universal picks.
With kids, the hotel is not just a place to sleep. It is where you recover between park days, where the pool becomes the highlight of the trip, and where a second bedroom or a kitchen can save your sanity. Orlando does family hotels better than almost anywhere, from resorts with their own water parks to themed suites that sleep six.
This guide groups the best family options by what matters most to parents: how close you are to the parks, how much space you get and what there is to do when everyone needs a pool day.
Hotel prices and availability come from our partner Stay22 and may earn us a commission at no extra cost to you. See our disclaimer.
Where to stay for Orlando
Each area has trade-offs. Here is how they compare.
Universal hotels
Walk, boat or shuttle to Universal
Universal's hotels suit families with older kids and teens, with early park admission and easy access to Volcano Bay.
- Walk to CityWalk
- Great for thrill-seekers
- Farther from Disney
Kissimmee resorts and vacation homes
About 10 to 25 minutes to Disney
Resorts with water parks and thousands of vacation homes with private pools make Kissimmee the space-for-money champion.
- Room for big families
- Kitchens and private pools
- Driving and parking each park day
Hotels we recommend
Compare live rates for your dates on each hotel before you book.
- Disney's Art of Animation ResortWalt Disney World · Themed family suites that sleep six, on the Skyliner.Check prices
- Universal's Cabana Bay Beach ResortUniversal Orlando · Retro resort with a lazy river and bowling alley, a walk from Volcano Bay.Check prices
- Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World ResortWalt Disney World · Luxury with a lazy river, splash zone and kids' club.Check prices
- Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention CenterKissimmee · Glass-domed atrium plus an on-site water park.Check prices
- Margaritaville Resort OrlandoKissimmee · Resort and cottages next to the Island H2O Live! water park.Check prices
- Encore Resort at ReunionReunion · Vacation homes with private pools and a resort water park.Check prices
- Hilton OrlandoInternational Drive · A big lazy river, close to SeaWorld.Check prices
Drive times
| To | Approx. drive |
|---|---|
| Walt Disney World (from Kissimmee) | 10–25 min |
| Universal Orlando (from International Drive) | 10–15 min |
| SeaWorld Orlando (from International Drive) | 5–10 min |
| LEGOLAND Florida (from Kissimmee) | 40 min |
| Orlando International Airport (MCO) | 25–35 min |
Times are without traffic. Allow extra time on weekday rush hours and event days.
Local tips
Schedule a pool day
Kids remember the lazy river as much as the rides. Plan at least one half day at the hotel, especially between big park days.
Midday breaks save trips
The heat peaks from noon to 4 p.m., and summer storms usually follow. Staying close enough to go back for a nap and a swim keeps everyone happy through the evening.
Get a kitchen
Breakfast and snacks in your room add up to real savings for a family of four or more. Suites and vacation homes pay for themselves quickly.
Count resort and parking fees
Many Orlando hotels add resort fees and charge for parking. Compare the total, not just the nightly rate.
Family favorites to book
Real, bookable experiences with live prices and traveler reviews.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best area in Orlando for families?
On Disney property for families focused on Disney, near Universal for older kids, and Kissimmee for big families who want space and a private pool.
Which Orlando hotels have water parks?
Gaylord Palms, Margaritaville Resort Orlando next to Island H2O, and Encore Resort at Reunion all have water parks, and many resorts, including Disney and Universal hotels, have lazy rivers and big themed pools.
Are vacation homes better than hotels for families?
For groups of six or more, often yes. You get bedrooms, a kitchen and usually a private pool. Hotels win on convenience and on-site activities.