First Time: Need hotel and transport advice

[lovestravl]

Aside from stopovers on the way to somewhere else, my family has never stayed in Orlando. We've planned a trip because my daughter and her friend really want to see the Harry Potter land. I'm a little nervous about doing this for the first time. I've read the posts about the benefits of staying at Universal, and want to stay on site. However, with airfare being rather pricey right now, I am hoping to not stay all three nights.

Right now I've reserved a room at Portofino Bay for Wed and Thursday nights, thinking we'd visit the IOC on Thursday and Friday, then stay somewhere else Friday night before flying out on Saturday. However, we get in really late on Wed. night, so I doubt anyone will be awake early enough to enjoy early admission.

A few questions: 1. Would it be better to stay somewhere else Wednesday, then stay at a Lowe's resort on Thursday and Friday nights?

2. What is transportation like? Is it best to rent a car? I've heard transportation from the airport is rather pricey.

3. Other than City Walk and the onsite food, are there restaurants/grocery store close by?

I really appreciate everyone's advice.

 

[Melanie230]

1. Stay somewhere else on Wednesday night. We always stay offsite on our first night there. Get up very early the next morning, and check in at the hotel.
2. We always rent a HERTZ car. Get the cheapest thing you can rent. We got a Toyota Corolla for $40. You can return the car to the PBH when you check in.
3. I am not sure about the nerby restaurants, or grocery stores, but I am sure you can find something.

Hope this helps you!

 

[lovestravl]

Thank you!