we just got back from usf. we stayed at the red roof inn. it was semi long walk but also the closest hotel (besides the raddisson) and wasnt very expensive there were 5 of us and i think our room was around $45 a night. they had a pool and continental breakfast and the rooms were okay( not spectacular but nice)
we found a short cut that brought us into a side door we then walked straight up to the esculators, took 2 sets of them and then took the esculator walkways all the way to city walk, so it wasnt that bad ( we had a 5,7, & 10 yr old with us.) just remember to wear good shoes....ouch blisters hurt..lol
good luck
tinkandhook