HELP - Best offsite Disney resort???

[jjhawksjj]

We're planning on going to DisneyWorld (first-timers) in mid-May.

We were thinking about staying offsite to try and save a little money as we've heard that staying on-site is more expensive.

I'm sure everyone has their opinions BUT, if I could get some recommendations on the best bang for the buck offsite type resorts/hotels I would REALLY appreciate it.

Details such as:

Distance from Disney
Distance from other Orlando activities
Distance from restaurants
Does resort have restaurants/food onsite
Does resort have shuttle(s) to Disney
Resort amenities

These details would be greatly appreciated to help make the best educated guess for our first time to DISNEY!!!

Thanks!!!

JJ

 

[ga9497]

We like Holiday Inn Family suites (use code OLP for discounts)
www.hifamilysuites.com

or www.cariberoyale.com

Both offer free breakfast buffet and both are 1 mile from the disneyworld gates.

 

[Stepman]

The best one I have been to is basically just across the street from the entrance of wdw. Its called the sheraton safari. All suite rooms, very nice, just a minute from the entrance, it's right next to crossroads

 

[zurgswife]

I just stayed at Summerfield Suites...also across the street in the cross roads area....wonderful...here is the link.


My friend did use the shuttle and while it was not horrible...he said he definately would look into renting a car the next time. He spent quite a bit of time waiting on shuttles.

http://www.wyndham.com/main.wnt

 

[alisbarc]

Hello,
Vistana Resorts is write across I4 (about a 1 mile from the Disney entrance). They have all amenities, multiple pools, restaurants etc. You can view the resort an www.starwoodvo.com If you will email me at dwbarc@aol.com I will email you some other information.
ttfn
david

 

[calgarygary]

My vote is for the Vistana Villages on International Drive. Close to Disney (10 min to park at most), close to shopping (just around the corner from premium outlets and publix) and very close to SeaWorld and other International Drive restaurants/activities. The Villages is newer then the Resort so there is 0 chance of getting an older/rundown suite.

Gary

 

[Gillian]

I can't recall ever hearing anything good about shuttles to the parks. Most common complaints - limited times, very crowded, lots of stops at other hotels, additional cost.

When you narrow down your choices, I think it would be worth calling each hotel to get the specifics on their shuttle.

We've always had a car when staying offsite, and it's nice to have the flexibility. Depending on your party size, renting a small car for an offiste stay could save you money vs. staying onsite. You generally get a lot more space for your money offsite, but you do lose out on the Disney transportation.