Need Help from Orlando Hometown People

[BWVPam]

I know this is a strange request, but here goes. At the end of July 2009, I am organizing a trip for a bunch of kids to Orlando. They will be swimming in the USA Swimming Southern Zones Champioinships. They will be swimming at the big YMCA Aquatic Center at 8422 International Drive. I have been several times to Orlando, but rarely in this area. I have been looking at hotels that are close. I see that there is a Radisson that is supposed to be opening sometime next year adjacent to the pool. There is also 2 embassy suties, a homewood suites and I think another suite type hotel within 1-2 miles of the pool. Has anyone had any experience in this area. We need to be close to lots of food locations, as we will be feeding about 20 kids. I tend to like Embassy Suites, because of the great breakfast they include, however if there are lots of food choices right near the Raddisson, that might be an option as well

I have heard some things that the Embassy Suites are really run down in this area. Does anyone know if this is true?

Thanks for any advice and opinions.

 

[WhateverLolaWants]

Based on the address of the YMCA, you're going to near the Convention Center which is surrounded by tons of restaurants.There's also of lot of activities in the area, like mini golf and such. I can't really remember all of the hotels in the area, but I just looked up the Embassy Suites and it looks nice in the pictures.

 

[Traveliz]

Well I am not a hometowner (darn) but my daughter goes to UCF's Rosen College of Hospitality on Universal Blvd and she and her roommates go to that Y for an exercise class.

At any rate I have been up and down that stretch of road and the hotels you mention are close to International Drive (if not on) and are very close to fast food, casual dining, tourist shops, activities etc.

I have seen (just from the outside) the Embassy Suites you mention and it does not appear to be run down.

Liz

 

[BWVPam]

Thanks for your responses.

 

[MattM]

Fairfield Inn & Suites on Canada Ave is close to the Y and tons of restaurants, as is the Crowne Plaza Universal. Both are good, clean hotels.

 

[cherylp3]

My aunt and uncle stayed at the Metropolitan in the tower ( the other rooms are not as good)

Also for Eating: Maggiano's is closeby - they are a family style italian restaurant.