The Best Hotels to Book Near Orlando International Airport

Theres plenty in Orlando to keep you busy even if youre just touching down for a layover
There's plenty in Orlando to keep you busy even if you're just touching down for a layover | © Sean Pavone / Alamy Stock Photo
Nick Dauk

Get a true taste of Orlando even on a long layover when you stay at one of these top hotels near Orlando International Airport – bookable with Culture Trip.

No matter your reason for flying into Orlando International Airport, it’ll be hard to contain your excitement when your plane touches down. MCO is only a few miles away from the theme parks, but you should know that the City Beautiful offers much more than thrill rides and water parks. Golf courses designed by the game’s greatest players are right around the corner from innovative restaurants serving up the best global cuisine. These top picks near the airport offer everything you need, whether you’re on a family vacation or a spa getaway.

1. Rosen Shingle Creek

Resort, Spa Hotel, Golf Hotel, Hotel

5ab17ccc - Rosen Shingle Creek
Courtesy of Rosen Shingle Creek / Expedia

If you thought Orlando was a haven for theme parks, just wait until you discover all of the golf courses surrounding Rosen Shingle Creek. Stay and play on their Palmer-inspired course then take on the King’s own greens at Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge only 15 minutes away. Forgot your game at home? Take private lessons at the Brad Brewer Golf Academy on-site and review your green notes while relaxing in the hot tub.

2. The Alfond Inn

Inn

51fdc461 - The Alfond Inn
Courtesy of the Alfond Inn / Expedia

Get to know Orlando’s wealthy whereabouts during a stay at the Alfond Inn. This boutique hotel has a vibrant contemporary art collection that reflects the talent and vision of its proprietor, the liberal arts institution Rollins College. An in-room wine tap will tempt you to spend your entire trip lounging in a robe and slippers with a glass in-hand. Do rest assured that plenty of vino, award-winning restaurants and charming local shops are right around the corner on popular Park Avenue.

4. Blue Heron Beach Resort

Resort

dad86581 - Blue Heron Beach Resort
Courtesy of Blue Heron Beach Resort / Expedia

Blue Heron Beach Resort brings the beach to you. No need to drive all the way to the coast; the shores of Lake Bryan are just outside of your cozy Sunrise Suite. Jet skis, pontoon boats and ski boats are available for rent if you need a day spent topside; there’s also a tiki bar beside the pool if you need a day spent tipsy. A complimentary shuttle service can transport you to the theme parks if you need a break from this beachy bliss.

5. Caribe Royale

Hotel

884ede16 - Caribe Royale
Courtesy of Caribe Royale / Expedia

Had enough with the theme park queues? Caribe Royale is primed for your relaxation. Send the kids off to ride the water slide umpteen times while you watch from a luxurious cabana. If you can convince the little ones to stay put in the game room, you may be able to sneak over to the Island Spa for a detoxifying dry brush exfoliation. You’ll enjoy your down time at Caribe Royale so much, you’ll find it difficult to leave your queen suite the next morning.

6. Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando

Inn

ba440a16 - Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando
Courtesy of Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando / Expedia

You won’t need to step outside this hotel on the tourist haven of International Drive. An arcade, cafe, mini-market and three pools surround comfortable guest rooms. But when you do, stride up and down I-Drive to spend all day shopping at Pointe Orlando, dining on nearly every cuisine imaginable and laughing all on the thrill rides at ICON Park.

7. The Berkley, Orlando

Hotel

774e9804 - The Berkley, Orlando
Courtesy of the Berkley, Orlando / Expedia

In the rare hours when you aren’t riding roller coasters and snapping photos with iconic fictional figures, the Berkley has you covered. Hit the swimming pool when the sun’s up and the pool table or arcade in the moonlit hours. You’re welcome to kick back in your two-bedroom villa, unless you’re with the whole family in a four-bedroom unit, of course. You’ll find a few hours of popcorn and peace in the private movie theater on-site.

8. Star Island Resort

Resort

221a9a53 - Star Island Resort
Courtesy of Star Island Resort / Expedia

It may not be on a literal island, but the sparkling pool, boat rides on Lake Cecile and quiet putting green at Star Island Resort will make you feel miles away from Central Florida. Don’t let this oasis fool you; your spacious suite with a full kitchen, private patio and jacuzzi tub are right around the bend from Falcon’s Fire 18-hole course and an evening of jousting at the theatrical Medieval Times restaurant.

For more excellently located hotels in the Sunshine State, see the best hotels near Miami International Airport and the best near Busch Gardens. They’re bookable now via Culture Trip. For the ideal post-pandemic getaway, make sure you venture out to Florida’s “last paradise” and make the most of the state’s blue waters by seeing the best things to do in Destin. If you’re a foodie, venture to Fort Myers; here are the best restaurants in the city.

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