Hotel near Universal

[bradlam]

I am planning to go to Orlando in mid-January with my husband and 8 year old son. We will bw going to both Universal parks, Sea World, Disneyworld, and possibly Discovery Cove. Since most of what we are doing is in the SeaWorld/ Universal area, I want to find a hotel closer to those than to Disney. I want something that has a really nice pool/ play area because we'll probably just spend a day at the hotel in the middle of the trip winding down. Also, I was wondering if Universal is going to be all that terribly busy in January. The only reason I'd want to stay on-site is because of the FOTL access, but if the parks aren't going to be that busy anyway, I'd prefer something cheaper. Does anyone have suggestions for a good hotel that meets all my criteria? Thanks a lot!

 

[ncgolfer]

I highly recommend the Sierra Suites on International Drive. We stayed there last summer. They provide a shuttle to the Universal Parks that runs quite a few times a day. The hotel also has an Int. Blvd trolley stop in front of it that you can take to Sea World that basically drops you off at the front door. You can walk to the large mall on Int drive (can't remember the name). Be sure to check out the FAO Schwartz toy store there it is incredible.

The hotel itself is very nice. All rooms are suites with full kitchen and living room areas. The staff was very accomodating and the free breakfast was nice. The pool are is not the largest but well kept and has a gameroom attached to the pool area. The suites can be had for around $40-60 dollars directly off the Sierra Suites website. Be sure to book the Int. drive one though because there is another at Lake Buena Vista.

Have a great trip,

Charlie

 

[Canadian Kelly]

The Hawthorn Suites on Canada Ave is good. It is about 10 min. from Universal and also has shuttles to Disney and Universal. It's one block off I-Drive on a nice quiet street. The pool is not huge but was fine for our 9,12, 15 yr. olds. They also have a basketball court and game room. It's also close to the Belz Outlet which the kids loved to shop at. We got the suite for $70/night in August.

 

[sue Z]

The Doubletree Castle and the Holiday inn Convention center which is just behind the Mercardo shopping area are both good!!
Have stayed at both of these places with in the last 3 yrs!! both have entrances on Universal Blvd and have access from I drive too!!