Explore Orlando's Magical Themed Resort Hotels
If you're looking for a family vacation that's full of fun and excitement, Orlando is the place to go. With a number of theme parks to choose from and some amazing themed resort hotels, you're sure to have an awesome time!
Themed resorts aren't always expensive, so they're the perfect way to add a little Disney or Universal magic to your trip. We've put together a list of the top 10 themed resort hotels in Orlando to help you find the perfect hotel site for your next family vacation.
I. Introduction
Orlando, Florida, home to the world's most famous theme parks, is a magical place. But the best part about vacationing in this enchanted city is that it also boasts a vibrant and lively resort hotel scene with something for everyone, including themed hotels.
If you're looking for the perfect place to stay, there's no better way to check in than at one of these wacky yet posh themed hotel properties. These grand hotels have it all, including a five star spa and a state-of-the-art fitness centre to boot! They'll make you feel like royalty. So, if you're in the market for a luxury hotel in Orlando, these are the ones to book!
In addition to the hotel's other amenities, a few of these fancy hotels even offer a free round trip motorcoach service to and from the airport. This is a great way to make the most of your limited time in town. And, if you're in the mood to try something more exotic, there are many restaurants and nightlife options around town.
Overview of Orlando's themed resort hotels
If you're looking to spice up your Orlando vacation, there are plenty of fun options in this Central Florida city. It's home to a dozen theme parks including Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando.
Whether you're traveling with kids or on your own, there's something for everyone at these exciting attractions. And if you're looking for a way to make your stay even more magical, don't miss out on the opportunity to stay in a themed hotel room.
Themed resort hotels can offer everything from nautical-themed family suites to music-themed studios, so there's something for everyone! Check out our top picks for the best themed rooms in Orlando!
Located within the Universal Orlando bubble, this upscale 394-room hotel is the perfect choice for families and groups visiting the park. It features a massive zero-entry pool and AVEDA full-service spa. It also boasts a world-class restaurant and bar, and its public spaces are designed to look like the offices of a high-profile technology company.
II. Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Located along the shores of Seven Seas Lagoon and one monorail stop away from Magic Kingdom Park, Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is a deluxe resort that offers an elegant Victorian-style design with a touch of Disney flair. This timeless property is also home to the AAA Five Diamond Award-winning Victoria & Albert's and Southern Europe-influenced Citricos, plus other top dining choices.
The 900-room hotel is also home to two 'club level' lounges, the Royal Palm Club and Sugar Loaf Club. Both offer daily breakfast, lunch and dinner offerings.
Rooms at this Walt Disney World deluxe resort range from standard rooms and suites to deluxe studios and villas. Each features plush linens and luxe finishes, including dual vanities and tub/shower combinations.
Whether you're planning your first family vacation or are a returning guest, this deluxe resort can be a relaxing place to unwind and get ready for another day of fun at the theme parks. It's also a great option for couples looking to take their romance to the next level.
Victorian-style architecture and design
Victorian-style architecture is a blanket term used to describe several different architectural styles that emerged during the reign of Queen Victoria. Many of these styles are still popular in England and have spread to other countries around the world, including North America, Australia, and New Zealand.
During this time period, homes were crafted using better building materials and mass-produced building parts. This allowed architects to create buildings that were ornate and decorative, telegraphing the wealth of the era.
The most common Victorian-style house is the Queen Anne style. It features asymmetrical facades with at least one tower or turret, wraparound porches, a steep roof with multiple angles and lots of gingerbread trim.
Another commonly seen Victorian-style home is the Gothic revival. This style was inspired by medieval castles and cathedrals, and it reflected the romantic moods of the times.
Other popular Victorian-style houses include the Greek Revival, Second Empire, Romanesque Revival and Italianate. These styles also share similar features, such as pediments and balustrades.
Upscale dining options and Live entertainment
Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a fine dining experience, the theme parks and resort hotels of Orlando have plenty to offer. Many of them are participating in Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining program and boast a variety of signature restaurants, including the likes of Il Mulino New York Trattoria and Todd English’s bluezoo.
For a truly unforgettable dining experience, look no further than Eleven Madison Park, which has been voted the world’s best restaurant by 50Best. This upscale restaurant fuses Art Deco design with next-level French cuisine and a sophisticated dining area, and serves up everything from lobster with rutabagas to moreish surf clams with chowder.
If you’re looking for a hotel with a great location, check out Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort, where guests can enjoy two huge pools and access to exclusive theme park benefits such as free Universal Express Unlimited ride access and skip the queue tickets. There’s also a bowling alley and live music on the main stage, so this hotel has it all!
III. Universal's Cabana Bay Beach Resort
If you are looking for an affordable theme park hotel with all the perks of Universal, look no further than Cabana Bay Beach Resort. It’s the perfect choice for families seeking a comfortable and affordable place to stay while enjoying many of the benefits and attractions at Universal Orlando Resort.
The hotel’s design is inspired by Florida beach resorts in the 1950s and 1960s. You will be able to see this theme throughout the property, from the classic cars in the parking lot to the brightly colored neon sign.
For the pool lovers, Universal’s Cabana Bay has two huge pools and a lazy river. It also has a splash pad and poolside bars, which makes for a fun day in the sun.
This is a really great resort for families, and there are a variety of room options. Some of the best are the family suites, which sleep up to six people and feature a kitchenette and separate living area.
Another perk is that Cabana Bay guests can get early access to the parks. This allows you to start your day at the theme parks an hour before the general public, which is a huge advantage.
1950s and 60s retro-style theme
The 1950s and 60s were a popular decade for fashion, music and design. During this time, hot pink and turquoise became popular colors. In addition, Scandinavian design was popular during this time period.
With a vibrant, retro-style theme, Cabana Bay Beach Resort at Universal Orlando is a fantastic choice for families looking to stay in style while visiting the theme parks. The hotel is based on classic Florida beach resorts and includes two massive pools, a lazy river and its own bowling alley.
In room designs, Cabana Bay offers an array of eye-catching colors and accessories that will instantly make your stay a fun experience. From retro lamp designs to accent pillows in complementing shades of blue and orange, the hotel's rooms will transport you back in time.
There are several onsite restaurants that serve classic American fare as well as international dishes. Guests can also enjoy light bites in the food court.
Additionally, there is a 10-lane "retro" bowling alley and two main pools. In addition to these perks, the hotel is located within walking distance of three of Universal's theme parks and the Universal CityWalk(tm).
Lazy river and multiple pools
Whether you're traveling with kids or adults, the best Orlando hotels have multiple swimming spots, splash zones and pools, topped off with giant water slides and lazy rivers. They also offer fun extras, including poolside games and food.
The holiday-themed Holiday Inn Club Vacations at Orange Lake Resort has one of the most popular swimming attractions in Orlando: a lazy river. This slow-paced attraction spans 1,200 feet and winds through a scenic village, allowing guests to relax.
It's a great way to wind down after a day of fun in the theme parks. Many of the hotel's rooms come with private balconies or patios, so you can take advantage of the sun while you're relaxing.
This hotel has two pools, one of which features a lazy river. You can rent a tube here or bring your own. The helpful staff will inflate and deflate it for you if you haven't already.
Located just minutes from SeaWorld and Universal Studios, this property is a must-stay for couples and families. Its spacious hotel-suite condos feature blackout shades, flat-screen TVs and fully-equipped kitchens.
Convenient location near Universal Orlando Resort
Whether you're looking for the convenience of staying on property or need more space for your family, there are a variety of options to choose from. Some offer exclusive perks like Early Park Admission with a valid theme park ticket, free water taxis and shuttles between your hotel and the theme parks, resort-wide charging privileges or more.
Some also offer more affordable prices or budget-friendly options. And there are a variety of dining options at Universal Orlando Resort hotels, including world-famous restaurants and casual spots.
One of our favorite options is the Holiday Inn & Suites across from Universal Orlando, which offers an easy and quick shuttle to the park and does not charge a resort fee! The hotel is also family friendly with a pool, kiddie pool and games for the kids.
For something a little different, try the NBC Sports Grill & Brew. This sports-themed restaurant features nearly 100 high-definition screens and a menu that includes classic favorites. You can also enjoy a drink at the bar while catching up on the game.
IV. Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge
Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge is an African themed deluxe resort that offers some of the most luxurious and cultural experiences in Walt Disney World. Guests of the resort can enjoy many perks such as a shuttle bus to all four theme parks, campfire activities on select resorts, laundry and dry-cleaning services and award-winning dining options.
Among the resort's highlights is its two main guest areas, Jambo House and Kidani Village, as well as several Disney Vacation Club villas. Both areas feature beautiful lobbies, as well as a number of shops that sell Disney merchandise and sundries.
The Jambo House lobby is an incredible space that is just as impressive as those of the Wilderness Lodge, Grand Floridian or Polynesian Grand Californian at Disneyland. It has some of the most beautiful decor in Walt Disney World and is definitely worth a visit!
Besides a plethora of savanna-view rooms, Animal Kingdom Lodge also has a few unique animal adventures available to all guests. These include a Sense of Africa tour at Jambo House that includes breakfast at Boma, a morning safari and up-close animal encounters. Additionally, guests of the hotel have access to the Wanyama Safari and Dinner, which includes a tour in a private vehicle of the savannas surrounding the resort, as well as dinner at Jiko - The Cooking Place.
African themed resort with savanna views
If you love the idea of waking up to African animals frolicking in the savanna, then you’re going to fall in love with Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. This deluxe resort hotel is located right next to the park, which means that you’ll get regular wildlife sightings during your stay.
The African themed lodge is a horseshoe-shaped building that’s designed to look like an authentic African savanna kraal. It features a zero-entry pool, whirlpool spas, and a quaint kid’s water play area.
Rooms are available in Jambo House or Kidani Village and range from studios to three-bedroom villas. The rooms are decorated in a variety of reds, oranges and browns that will make you feel like you’re on a safari.
Guests can take in the sights of the savanna from their rooms or from one of the savanna overlooks. Each of these overlooks has a unique view of different savannas.
Cultural experiences including music and storytelling
Guests of these deluxe resort hotels can expect an impressive array of offerings. While some are within walking distance of the parks, others offer easy access via monorail or water taxi. Luckily for you, each resort boasts some of the best and most memorable themed attractions around. From a multi-sensory sensory exhibit to a hands-on chemistry lab, these resorts are the perfect way to immerse yourself in the magic of Disney World without breaking the bank.
In the hotel arena, it's hard to beat a tropical themed destination like the Marriott's Harbour Lake, with its colorful Key West cottage style architecture.
The hotel is also the home of a few cool technological achievements, such as their signature "Moana" inspired theme. The hotel's crown jewel is the 'Ohana, which was one of the most popular restaurants in all of Disney World upon its opening in 2010. You can also try out the hotel's effervescent spa and fitness center. The hotel has the distinction of being named Orlando's best hotel for the fifth year in a row!
Jiko - The Cooking Place, an immersive dining experience
Jiko - The Cooking Place is an immersive dining experience that transports guests into the heart of Africa. This upscale restaurant offers a fusion of regionally inspired African flavors and a sophisticated wine list.
The food at Jiko is excellent, but what really makes this restaurant stand out is the atmosphere. It is a very romantic setting, and the lighting changes throughout your meal to mimic an African sunset.
In addition to the delicious food, the restaurant also boasts a stunning wine list made up of all South African wines. If you're looking for a great spot to take your date for a special dinner, Jiko is definitely worth considering!
The restaurant is located on the lower floor of Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge, and you can find it by following the aroma and sound of the food. There is a set of elevators you can use to get there from the main lobby, and once you've reached this level, all of the restaurants are in close proximity.
V. Loews Royal Pacific Resort
Themed after the isles of the South Seas, the Loews Royal Pacific Resort welcomes guests to an exotic tropical paradise with waterfalls, swaying palm trees and a lagoon-style pool that’s perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The Polynesian theme also adds to the many cultural experiences that are offered at this Universal Orlando hotel.
Dining - Delectable, innovative culinary creations with a twist on Polynesian perfection await you at restaurants across the property. The Orchid Court Lounge and Sushi Bar, for example, offers modern, inventive sushi and sashimi presentations with Asian-inspired desserts.
Wantilan Luau - Every Saturday night, the enchanting Wantilan Luau features an all-you-can-eat buffet of Polynesian dishes, live Hawaiian music and traditional hula dancing. Reservations are required for this show, so book early!
Transportation - Loews Royal Pacific Resort is directly connected to CityWalk, the mega shopping complex at the beginning of Universal Orlando and the entrances to both Islands of Adventure and CityWalk. There are water taxis, shuttle busses and garden walkways that can help you get from your hotel to the parks.
South Pacific-themed resort with tropical landscaping
Disney's Polynesian Village Resort is a tropical oasis right on the shores of Seven Seas Lagoon. Its South Pacific theme translates into white sand beaches, waterfalls and even bamboo tiki torches that light up after dark.
The hotel features eleven 'longhouses' and the Great Ceremonial House, which serves as the main reception area for guests and acts as the hub of all things Polynesian. The hotel has several pools, including one of the world's largest, and a handful of rum and vodka inspired bars and restaurants.
Despite being around since 1971, the resort has undergone a number of changes over the years. The most recent of these was the addition of over water bungalows that extend into Seven Seas Lagoon. There are also a handful of dining options, including the restaurant of the moment Trader Sam's Grog Grotto, which is a must try for any foodie. The best part? It's located inside a hotel with one of the most impressive themed facades in Orlando! It's certainly a memorable and enchanting place to stay.
Lagoon-style pool and Variety of dining options
Lagoon-style pools often incorporate tropical design elements like rock waterfalls, caves and grottos, tropical landscaping, dreamy lighting and color schemes of blue, green, or teal. These features help evoke the feel of a remote tropical oasis.
Unlike linear pool designs, lagoon-style swimming pools are freeform and can be built in a variety of spaces. This flexibility is especially useful for homes that aren't quite conducive to outdoor water-based recreation, like irregular corner lots or cramped backyards.
While these types of pools are typically found in resort settings, they can also be built at home. With the right design, a lagoon pool can add a touch of luxury to your backyard.
These pools can be as wild and extravagant as your imagination allows. Whether you're looking for a pool with a rock waterfall, cave, and spa, or an inviting swim-in grotto, your pool builder can create a unique oasis to suit your needs.
In Orlando, restaurants serving everything from international and regional cuisine to locally sourced foods are plentiful. From gourmet farm-to-table creations at Artisan's Table and award-winning food served over Lake Eola at 310 Lakeside to national celebrity chefs such as Todd English and John Tesar, you'll find just want you're craving on your next trip to Orlando.
VI. Other Themed Resort Hotels in Orlando
There is an abundance of world class theme parks and a wide array of resorts to choose from, but you might be surprised to learn that Orlando is actually home to more than a few themed hotels. From nautical-themed family suites to music-themed studios, there are plenty of reasons to splurge on a stay at a hotel that’s as much fun as your favorite theme park.
The best part is that these fun-filled hotels are usually a fraction of the price found in other parts of the city. Among these Orlando, Florida hotels, the most notable is the Holiday Inn Resort Orlando Suites - Waterpark. This resort boasts a massive water park with an impressively large pool complex, a kids’ playground and a mammoth sized food court. It also happens to be conveniently located a short drive from both Disney and Universal theme parks. It’s definitely a bucket list must-do.
Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando
The Hard Rock Hotel is one of the most enticing and popular theme hotels on Universal Orlando Resort property. It features an A-list pool and dining scene, a collection of rare rock memorabilia, and plenty of perks for guests to enjoy throughout their stay.
The Rock-themed hotel is set on a central waterway and ideally located near Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure and Citywalk (transportation is complimentary for guests staying at this hotel). Plus, with SKIP THE REGULAR LINES* and FREE UNIVERSAL EXPRESS Unlimited ride access+, you’ll get to experience the rides and attractions without the stress and frustration that comes with long lines!
Those looking to get a little more active can hit up the Hard Rock Hotel’s game room and try their hand at saving the galaxy or driving 150 mph with a variety of arcade games. There are also daily activities at the pool area, including “Dive In” movies and live bands and DJs.
The hotel has a number of different room types that are adorned with rock memorabilia and music. You can even get your own Crosley turntable in your room so you can play your favorite songs from the hotel’s priceless collection.
Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Disney's Art of Animation Resort is a newer addition to the value resort hotels at Walt Disney World, built in 2012. It's one of the best Disney World value resorts
for families because it has plenty of fun activities for kids.
The main hub of the resort is Animation Hall, where you can check in, catch the bus to the parks, eat at the food court or shop at the gift shop and arcade. There's also a daily Disney character drawing contest in the lobby, as well as Movies Under the Stars each night!
Guests can enjoy three heated pools, including the big, blue feature pool. There
are also two smaller pools in The Lion King and Cars sections, along with a Schoolyard Sprayground for little ones to splash around.
Families will love staying at this Disney World value resort, especially those that love the movies Finding Nemo, Cars or the Lion King! There are also family suites that can sleep up to six adults and four children.
Universal's Aventura Hotel
Opening August 2018, Aventura Hotel gives guests a fresh, fun way to stay in the heart of Universal Orlando Resort(tm). The sleek, modern aesthetic of this new landmark is refreshingly different than the other on-site hotels.
Located around the corner from Volcano Bay, Aventura offers budget-to-moderately priced accommodations within walking distance of Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure theme parks. This review shares room photos, info about amenities and pros & cons of this new and exciting hotel.
Aventura Hotel is a great choice for couples, weekend girls trips or solo getaways. Its location allows you to walk the 1.5-mile garden walkway or utilize a complimentary shuttle bus to reach Universal Studios Florida and Islands of
Adventure via CityWalk.
Each standard and deluxe room feature floor to ceiling windows that allow you to see the nearby theme parks. You can also upgrade to a Skyline View for a better look at all the action going on in the theme parks.
With endless sunshine, world-famous theme parks and a vibrant vacation scene, Orlando is an enticing destination for travelers of all ages. And a stay in one of the many themed resort hotels here will make your trip even more magical.
VII. Conclusion
Recap of Orlando's magical themed resort hotels
The legendary storytelling, detail and guest service found in the theme parks are replicated in these Disney-themed hotels. Each hotel is inspired by a beloved Disney story and features a range of unique experiences like outdoor screenings of classic movies under the stars, dining with characters popping by and giant themed pools and play areas.
A few of these resorts are located outside the immediate theme park sphere, but they still provide convenient access to thrill rides and other big-name entertainment. Some of these include the Villas at Grand Cypress, Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate and Loews Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando. In addition, many of these properties feature themed rooms and suites to enhance your Disney or Universal experience. If you're looking for an all-inclusive vacation or an escape from the hustle and bustle of theme parks, then these themed resorts are sure to fit your needs!
Recommendations for booking a stay
If you're looking to make a magical stay in Orlando, there are plenty of themed resort hotels to choose from. From nautical-themed family suites to music-themed studios, you can find a hotel room that will enchant you and your loved ones.
Many of these hotels are located right next to theme parks, making them the perfect destination for those who want to spend the majority of their time at the park and skip all of the hassle of navigating traffic and parking. However, if you're interested in exploring the city and its cultural attractions, there are a variety of other options to consider as well.
Another great option is the Loews Portofino Bay Hotel in Universal Orlando, a luxurious recreation of the famed Italian seaside village complete with beautiful European decor. This hotel also offers a free shuttle service to the Universal Orlando theme parks, so you can enjoy all of the park's amazing rides without having to worry about parking.
For families, you can't go wrong with Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort, a tropical paradise with five island villages and a pirate ship-themed splash area for younger guests. You'll find spacious two-bedroom or three-bedroom suites here, with a kitchen and laundry facilities as well as a large zero-entry pool and kids' water playscape.
Appendices
FAQ’s
What types of themes can I expect to find in Orlando's themed resort hotels?
You can expect to find a variety of themes in Orlando's themed resort hotels, including Disney characters and movies, tropical islands, the Wild West, and more. Each resort has its own unique theme, so you're sure to find one that fits your interests.
Are there themed resort hotels outside of the Disney parks?
Yes, there are several themed resort hotels outside of the Disney parks, such as those located at Universal Orlando Resort. These hotels feature themes based on popular movies and TV shows, like Harry Potter and Jurassic Park.
What are some family-friendly activities at Orlando's themed resort hotels?
Many of Orlando's themed resort hotels offer family-friendly activities like character meet and greets, pool parties, movie nights, and arcade games. Some resorts even have kids' clubs where children can participate in supervised activities while parents enjoy some alone time.
Can I book a room at an Orlando themed resort hotel without visiting the theme parks?
Yes, you can book a room at an Orlando themed resort hotel without visiting the theme parks. These hotels offer a range of amenities and activities, from relaxing pool areas to fine dining restaurants, so you can enjoy your stay even if you're not planning to visit the parks.
Are there any themed resort hotels in Orlando that offer all-inclusive packages?
While there are no themed resort hotels in Orlando that offer true all-inclusive packages, some resorts do offer dining plans that can be added to your room reservation. These dining plans typically include a set number of meals per day and can be a convenient option for guests who plan to dine on-site frequently.