Nobile Hotel Parkway near Celebration leads with an 8.0 rating and free shuttles to both Universal and Disney. For the tightest budget, Motel 6 International Dr drops rates to under $60 a night — no frills, but a 7.0 location score keeps Universal close. Both prove you don’t need deep pockets for a theme-park trip.
Universal Studios tickets already hurt. Your hotel shouldn’t. These 20 picks hover under $150 a night and keep you close to the action.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed 20 properties across 21,300+ verified guest reviews to compile this list, prioritizing a 5.7/10 average guest score and value scores above 7.0 for budget-conscious Universal travelers.
🎯 Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Best overall value: #3 Nobile Hotel Parkway→ Rates
- Lowest price + Universal shuttle: #2 Rodeway Inn Kissimmee→ Rates
- Best location for Universal: #6 Orlando Inn I-Drive→ Rates
#12 Suburban Studios I-Drive→ Rates - Pet-friendly (free): #5 Motel 6 I-Drive→ Rates
- Best free breakfast included: #1 Quality Inn & Suites Kissimmee→ Rates
- Great value with pool: #16 The Adventure Hotel→ Rates
#4 Baymont Wyndham→ Rates
Editor’s Note on Booking: We use smart routing to find you the best available rates. Clicking our availability buttons checks live pricing across trusted platforms to ensure you secure your stay.
Quick Compare: Top Places To Stay
| Property | Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Quality Inn & Suites Kissimmee near Main Gate | (3400+ Reviews) |
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| 2. Rodeway Inn Kissimmee – Orlando Maingate West – Free Theme Park Shuttle | (3100+ Reviews) |
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| 3. Nobile Hotel Parkway at Celebration Orlando Very Close to Disney | (2750+ Reviews) |
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| 4. Baymont by Wyndham Orlando North Millenia | (1700+ Reviews) |
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| 5. Motel 6-Orlando, FL – International Dr | (1450+ Reviews) |
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| 6. Orlando Inn International Drive Area | (1350+ Reviews) |
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| 7. Motel 6-Kissimmee, FL – Orlando | (1050+ Reviews) |
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| 8. Days Inn by Wyndham Orlando Downtown | (850+ Reviews) |
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| 9. Super 8 by Wyndham Orlando Near Florida Mall | (800+ Reviews) |
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| 10. Opal Hotel & Suites | (700+ Reviews) |
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| 11. Motel 6-Orlando, FL – Winter Park | (600+ Reviews) |
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| 12. Suburban Studios International Drive | (550+ Reviews) |
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| 13. Clarion Inn Orlando International Drive – ICON Park | (500+ Reviews) |
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| 14. Altamonte Springs Hotel and Suites | (500+ Reviews) |
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| 15. OYO Hotel Orlando Airport | (450+ Reviews) |
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| 16. The Adventure Hotel by the Parks | (400+ Reviews) |
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| 17. MainStay Suites Orlando Altamonte Springs | (250+ Reviews) |
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| 18. WoodSpring Suites Orlando North – Maitland | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 19. Studio 6 Extended Stay – Kissimmee, FL – Orlando | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 20. Hotel O Orlando Airport near Florida Mall | (150+ Reviews) |
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20 Affordable Hotels Near Universal Studios Reviewed
1. Quality Inn & Suites Kissimmee near Main Gate
The Vibe
This 4-star property on the main Kissimmee strip scores an 8.1 value rating — the highest in this budget list. Guests consistently call out the cleanliness (7.7) and the free breakfast as big wins. Location-wise, you’re 9 miles from MCO and surrounded by chain restaurants within walking distance.
What You Actually Get
Rooms come with air conditioning, plus an outdoor pool and elevator access for upper-floor rooms. The free shuttle runs at 8:45 AM and returns at 6:45 PM — there’s a $5 per person fee, so budget that in. The breakfast room earned “very good” marks from guests. Note: children 18+ are charged as adults, so group bookings may want to check the math before reserving multiple rooms.
Choose this if: You want a reliable shuttle to Universal and Disney plus a hot breakfast — all under one roof and under budget.
Check Tonight’s Price for Quality Inn & Suites Kissimmee near Main Gate →
2. Rodeway Inn Kissimmee – Orlando Maingate West – Free Theme Park Shuttle
The Vibe
This 3-star property leans heavily on its free shuttle to Disney parks — a major perk for the price point. The value score hits 7.6, and the Wi-Fi scores an 8.2, which is impressive at this tier. Location (8.4) puts you close to I-4 and Universal’s southern entrance.
What You Actually Get
Rooms include mini-fridges in king configurations — check your room type before booking. The outdoor swimming pool is open seasonally, and continental breakfast is included. Pets are allowed with possible charges, so confirm the fee during booking. Wi-Fi is free and tested well at 8.2. The 24-hour front desk is handy for late arrivals.
Choose this if: You need a free shuttle to the parks and don’t mind a no-frills stay — it’s the cheapest option with Universal transport.
Check Tonight’s Price for Rodeway Inn Kissimmee – Orlando Maingate West – Free Theme Park →
3. Nobile Hotel Parkway at Celebration Orlando Very Close to Disney Theme Parks
The Vibe
The affordable hotel near Universal Studios leader in our list, the Nobile scores an 8.0 overall — the highest of any property here. Staff (8.7), cleanliness (8.2), and value (8.4) all shine. Location at 8.8 puts it close to restaurants and coffee shops without the interstate headache.
What You Actually Get
Every room comes with a mini-fridge and microwave — critical for families bringing snacks into the parks. The free shuttle covers Hollywood Studios, Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld. The fitness center and outdoor pool add real value for a 3-star. Breakfast is included and scored “very good” by guests. Housekeeping is every other day, which keeps costs low.
Choose this if: You want the best overall experience near the parks — highest rating, free shuttle, and free breakfast in one package.
Check Tonight’s Price for Nobile Hotel Parkway at Celebration Orlando Very Close to Disney →
4. Baymont by Wyndham Orlando North Millenia
The Vibe
This 2-star in the Millenia district punches above its weight with an 8.4 Wi-Fi score and a 7.0 overall. Staff scored 8.0, suggesting consistent service. Location (7.6) puts you 9 miles from MCO and minutes from I-4 for a quick drive to Universal.
What You Actually Get
Rooms are newly renovated, which explains the decent 7.4 cleanliness score. King rooms include mini-fridges; deluxe rooms add microwaves. The grab-and-go breakfast is limited right now — don’t expect a full spread. Pets are allowed with charges. There’s an outdoor swimming pool and free parking. Note: the property collects a $100 deposit at check-in.
Choose this if: You need a reliable Wi-Fi connection and want newly refreshed rooms near I-4 without paying I-Drive prices.
Check Tonight’s Price for Baymont by Wyndham Orlando North Millenia →
5. Motel 6-Orlando, FL – International Dr
The Vibe
This Motel 6 sits on American Way, a short drive from Universal’s back entrance. The 4.5 overall reflects the basic experience — thin walls, dated furnishings, and a 5.3 cleanliness score. But the 7.0 location is solid, and the free I-Drive trolley stops nearby.
What You Actually Get
You get a bed, a bathroom, and free Wi-Fi (6.4 score). The outdoor pool is open, and there’s free on-site parking. Pets stay free with no extra charges — that’s rare. There’s no shuttle to Universal, but the I-Drive trolley runs every 15 minutes during peak hours. Rooms are basic: no microwaves or fridges standard.
Choose this if: Your budget is rock-bottom and you’re traveling with a pet — just keep expectations in check.
Check Tonight’s Price for Motel 6-Orlando, FL – International Dr →
6. Orlando Inn International Drive Area
The Vibe
Location is everything here — this 2-star scores an 8.7 for proximity to Universal, I-Drive restaurants, and the trolley line. The 7.1 staff score is decent for the price, but the 6.1 facilities rating tells you this is strictly a sleep-and-go operation.
What You Actually Get
The hotel runs a shuttle to Universal Studios and Disney — times are 8:55 AM and 11:50 AM for Universal. Breakfast is currently suspended. Rooms are basic with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi (6.3). Free on-site parking is a plus for drivers. The 24-hour front desk and ATM are handy. Note: Pets are not allowed.
Choose this if: You prioritize being walkable to I-Drive restaurants and need a cheap ride to Universal — location trumps the low scores.
Check Tonight’s Price for Orlando Inn International Drive Area →
7. Motel 6-Kissimmee, FL – Orlando
The Vibe
Cross the street and you’re at Old Town — the shopping and entertainment district. This Motel 6 hits an 8.4 on Wi-Fi, best in its class, and the staff score of 7.8 is the highest among the Motel 6 group here. Location at 8.0 is solid for Kissimmee.
What You Actually Get
Free outdoor pool, free Wi-Fi, and free parking are included. Pets stay free with no extra charges — just confirm at check-in. Rooms include air conditioning and a terrace area. Laundry facilities are available. There’s no restaurant on-site, but Old Town’s food stalls and shops are a 3-minute walk. The 3-star rating feels optimistic, but the Wi-Fi and location deliver.
Choose this if: You want a pet-friendly Motel 6 with good Wi-Fi and easy access to Old Town’s nightlife.
8. Days Inn by Wyndham Orlando Downtown
The Vibe
This 2-star is located 6.2 miles from Universal Studios and SeaWorld — a 10-minute drive. The 8.6 Wi-Fi tops everything here, and the staff score of 7.2 suggests decent service. But the 5.3 overall and 6.0 cleanliness tell the real story: this is a basic budget stay.
What You Actually Get
Rooms come with air conditioning. Continental breakfast is included, though selection is minimal. There’s an outdoor swimming pool and free on-site parking. A $50 security deposit is required at check-in — refundable at checkout. Pets are allowed with charges. The location near downtown Orlando gives you access to restaurants and bars, but Orange Blossom Trail isn’t walkable at night.
Choose this if: You absolutely need the best Wi-Fi and are fine with a stripped-down room near downtown.
Check Tonight’s Price for Days Inn by Wyndham Orlando Downtown →
9. Super 8 by Wyndham Orlando Near Florida Mall
The Vibe
This Super 8 punches at 6.8 — not bad for a 2-star chain. The staff score of 7.9 leads the property, suggesting a friendly front desk. Location at 7.4 is convenient for mall access and I-4, though Universal is a 15-minute drive. Value hits 7.2, making it decent for the price.
What You Actually Get
Continental breakfast is included, though it’s a grab-and-go setup. The outdoor pool is open. Free parking and Wi-Fi (7.6) are included. Rooms on upper floors are accessible by elevator. No airport shuttle is available. Pets are allowed with charges. The Florida Mall is a 5-minute drive — handy for shopping days when the parks are too crowded.
Choose this if: You want friendly service, a decent breakfast, and mall access — Universal is a short Uber away.
Check Tonight’s Price for Super 8 by Wyndham Orlando Near Florida Mall →
10. Opal Hotel & Suites
The Vibe
The Opal sits in Altamonte Springs, a solid 19-minute drive from Universal. The 3-star rating doesn’t match the 4.5 guest score — cleanliness at 5.3 and facilities at 5.0 suggest the property needs updates. The pool with views is the main draw here.
What You Actually Get
Rooms include TV, fridge, microwave, iron, and hairdryer — confirmed by guest Q&A. The on-site restaurant serves breakfast (continental included). Fitness center and outdoor pool are available. Note: check-in doesn’t start until 4:00 PM, and guests must be at least 21. Pets are not allowed. The 5.0 overall is the lowest among 3-star properties here.
Choose this if: You’re driving and want a 3-star property with a restaurant and pool — just keep expectations measured.
11. Motel 6-Orlando, FL – Winter Park
The Vibe
Located off I-4, this Motel 6 is less than 30 minutes from Universal. The 5.4 overall is in line with the brand’s budget positioning. Staff (6.7) and Wi-Fi (7.2) are the bright spots. Location (6.5) is decent for Winter Park access but a longer haul to I-Drive.
What You Actually Get
Free outdoor pool, free Wi-Fi (7.2), and free parking. Pets stay free with no charges — one of the few properties here with that policy. Rooms come with air conditioning and bathtubs. Laundry facilities available. No breakfast or restaurant on-site. The 3-star rating is generous compared to the guest feedback.
Choose this if: You’re driving I-4 with a pet and need a cheap, no-frills place to crash near Winter Park.
Check Tonight’s Price for Motel 6-Orlando, FL – Winter Park →
12. Suburban Studios International Drive
The Vibe
Suburban Studios sits right on International Drive, 1.5 miles from Universal — a 30-minute walk or a quick shuttle ride. The location score of 8.0 and value at 6.9 make it a solid mid-tier option. Staff (6.9) and Wi-Fi (7.9) are decent.
What You Actually Get
Free Wi-Fi (7.9) and free parking are included. The outdoor pool is open seasonally. Rooms have fridges but no microwaves — check your room type. No shuttle is currently offered, so plan on Uber (about $10) or walking. The 3-star rating is about right for the facilities. A $100 deposit is required at check-in.
Choose this if: You want to be on I-Drive, close enough to walk to Universal, with free parking included.
Check Tonight’s Price for Suburban Studios International Drive →
13. Clarion Inn Orlando International Drive – ICON Park
The Vibe
This 2-star Clarion sits right at ICON Park — the giant observation wheel and mini-golf complex. Location scores 8.2, making it one of the best-positioned budget options. The 5.4 overall and 5.9 cleanliness tell you this is strictly a location-over-luxury play.
What You Actually Get
Free shuttle service is available — just check the schedule at check-in. The outdoor pool is open. Free Wi-Fi (7.1) and free parking are included. An $8.95 resort fee applies per night. Guests under 21 can’t check in without a parent or guardian. There’s no microwave in rooms, confirmed by guest Q&A. Many restaurants within walking distance on I-Drive.
Choose this if: You want to be at ICON Park with a free shuttle — location is the main event over the room itself.
Check Tonight’s Price for Clarion Inn Orlando International Drive – ICON Park →
14. Altamonte Springs Hotel and Suites
The Vibe
This 2-star in Altamonte Springs scores a low 4.0 overall — the second-worst in our list. Staff (6.2) and location (5.6) are the highest marks. It’s 10 miles from Kia Center and about 25 minutes from Universal. The pool views are the highlight.
What You Actually Get
Rooms come with pool views and air conditioning. Free Wi-Fi (7.5) is decent for the price. Free parking, elevator access, and a terrace are included. A $50 damage deposit is required at check-in. Smoking is not allowed in rooms but is permitted right outside. Weekly rates are available at $295.68 plus deposit — good for extended stays.
Choose this if: You need a monthly rate in Altamonte Springs and care more about price than polish.
Check Tonight’s Price for Altamonte Springs Hotel and Suites →
15. OYO Hotel Orlando Airport
The Vibe
This 2-star near the Florida Mall and airport scores a 3.6 — the second-lowest in our list. Location at 5.0 is average, and cleanliness at 4.7 shows the property needs work. Staff (5.2) is the only score above 5.0. This is a last-resort option.
What You Actually Get
Free parking and free Wi-Fi (5.0) are included. Pets are allowed for a $25 per pet per night fee — confirm during booking. Reception is only open until 11:00 PM, so plan your arrival. Laundry facilities available. No pool, no breakfast, no restaurant. The 2-star rating fits the experience.
Choose this if: You’re in a pinch, arriving early, and need to be near the airport with a pet — set expectations low.
16. The Adventure Hotel by the Parks
The Vibe
This 3-star in Kissimmee scores a solid 7.0 with a location of 8.8 — one of the best in the list. Staff (8.3) and value (7.9) are strong. It’s 1 mile from Disney and offers scheduled shuttles to both Universal and Disney. The buffet breakfast is included in the hotel service fee.
What You Actually Get
Rooms come with air conditioning. The hotel service fee covers amenities, parking, and breakfast — so no surprise charges. Free Wi-Fi (8.2) is reliable. There’s an outdoor pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant. Pets are not allowed. Smoking in rooms incurs charges, so step outside. Packages can be received for a surcharge.
Choose this if: You want a reliable 3-star near Disney and Universal with a buffet breakfast and shuttle — the best balance of price and perks.
Check Tonight’s Price for The Adventure Hotel by the Parks →
17. MainStay Suites Orlando Altamonte Springs
The Vibe
This 3-star in Altamonte Springs scores 6.5 with staff at 8.1 — the second-highest staff score in the list. Value (7.5) is decent for a suite property. Location (7.9) puts you near Cranes Roost Park and I-4, about 20 minutes from Universal.
What You Actually Get
Suites have full kitchens — stovetops, fridges, and microwaves. The property accepts dogs up to 75 lbs (max 2 per room) with a $50 nonrefundable deposit plus $10 per night per pet. Cats are not allowed. Grab-and-go breakfast is served. Free Wi-Fi (6.2) and free parking are included. Outdoor pool and fitness center available.
Choose this if: You need a suite with a kitchen for a longer stay and want to bring your dog along.
Check Tonight’s Price for MainStay Suites Orlando Altamonte Springs →
18. WoodSpring Suites Orlando North – Maitland
The Vibe
WoodSpring Suites in Maitland scores 5.6 with staff at 7.3 and value at 6.2. It’s an extended-stay property off I-4, about 25 minutes from Universal. The 3-star rating is generous, but the kitchenettes add real utility for long stays.
What You Actually Get
Suites include kitchenettes — stovetops, fridges, microwaves. Free Wi-Fi (5.2) and free parking are included. Laundry facilities and elevator access are available. A $100 deposit is required at check-in. For stays of 7 nights or more, a $1.43 per night linen fee applies. Pets are allowed with charges — $100 plus tax ($107 total) per pet.
Choose this if: You’re staying a week or more and need kitchen facilities in Maitland — the value improves the longer you stay.
Check Tonight’s Price for WoodSpring Suites Orlando North – Maitland →
19. Studio 6 Extended Stay – Kissimmee, FL – Orlando
The Vibe
Studio 6 in Kissimmee scores 5.2 with location at 7.3. It’s 2.6 miles from Disney Springs and 3.1 miles from Hollywood Studios — close to the southern parks. The 5.8 cleanliness and 5.7 comfort tell the story of a worn property. But the full kitchens and free pets make it unique.
What You Actually Get
Every room has a refrigerator, stove top, microwave, and coffee maker — confirmed by guest Q&A. Free Wi-Fi (5.5) and free parking are included. Outdoor pool available. Pets stay free — no extra charges, though some guests reported a fee of $10 per night or $75 per week. No breakfast or restaurant is available. Laundry facilities on-site.
Choose this if: You want a full kitchen near Disney Springs and travel with a free-range pet — cook your own meals to offset the park costs.
Check Tonight’s Price for Studio 6 Extended Stay – Kissimmee, FL – Orlando →
20. Hotel O Orlando Airport near Florida Mall
The Vibe
Hotel O scores 3.1 — the lowest in our list. Location at 4.9 is at the bottom. Cleanliness (4.4), staff (4.4), and value (4.5) are all sub-5.0. This is the absolute budget floor in Orlando. Only book if every other property is sold out.
What You Actually Get
Free parking and free Wi-Fi (6.2) are included. Pets are allowed with charges. Air conditioning and private bathrooms are standard. Laundry facilities are available. Reception closes at 11:00 PM. This property does not accommodate cash-app payments — major cards only. No pool, no breakfast, no restaurant.
Choose this if: Your budget has absolutely no flexibility and you just need a bed within 20 minutes of Universal.
Check Tonight’s Price for Hotel O Orlando Airport near Florida Mall →
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
🏆 Best Overall
#3 Nobile Hotel Parkway at Celebration Orlando
8.0 rating, 8.4 value score, and free shuttles to Universal and Disney — the best all-around affordable hotel near Universal Studios on this list.
Check Tonight’s Price for Nobile Hotel Parkway at Celebration Orlando Very Close to Disney →
💰 Best Value
#1 Quality Inn & Suites Kissimmee near Main Gate
7.6 rating with the highest value score (8.1) plus free breakfast and scheduled park shuttles — unmatched bang for the buck.
Check Tonight’s Price for Quality Inn & Suites Kissimmee near Main Gate →
📌 Best for Budget
#2 Rodeway Inn Kissimmee – Orlando Maingate West
6.7 rating with free theme park shuttle and pet-friendly policy — the cheapest way to get a ride to Universal with a dog in tow.
Check Tonight’s Price for Rodeway Inn Kissimmee – Orlando Maingate West – Free Theme Park →
How We Ranked These Affordable Hotels Near Universal Studios
I analyzed 20 properties across 21,300+ verified guest reviews, focusing on value scores, park proximity, and shuttle availability. The average guest score of 5.7/10 reflects the budget bracket, but properties with value scores above 7.0 and location ratings above 8.0 rose to the top.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 150+ verified reviews to ensure reliable feedback
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized value, location, and cleanliness scores — the three metrics that matter most for budget park visitors
- Amenity verification: Cross-referenced advertised shuttles, breakfast, and pet policies against guest reviews for accuracy
- Location signals: Distance to Universal Studios, I-Drive access, and availability of park shuttles
Frequently Asked Questions
Which affordable hotels near Universal Studios offer free shuttle service?
At least seven properties on this list offer free or low-cost shuttle service to Universal Studios. The Nobile Hotel Parkway (free), Quality Inn & Suites ($5 per person), Rodeway Inn (free), Orlando Inn I-Drive (free), Clarion Inn (free with resort fee), and The Adventure Hotel (free) all run scheduled shuttles. Check departure times at check-in — most run 8:00-9:00 AM with return trips around 6:00-7:00 PM.
Are pets allowed at these Orlando budget hotels?
Yes, multiple properties in this list welcome pets. Motel 6 on International Dr and Motel 6-Kissimmee allow pets free of charge with no extra fees. Rodeway Inn, Baymont, Days Inn, Super 8, and MainStay Suites allow pets with varying fees ($10-$25 per night). Studio 6 and WoodSpring Suites also accept pets. Always confirm the specific pet policy during booking, as fees and weight limits differ by property.
What’s the best time to visit Universal Studios for lower hotel rates?
Hotel rates near Universal Studios drop significantly during Florida’s off-peak seasons: mid-January through February, late August through September, and the first two weeks of December. Avoid Presidents’ Week, spring break (March-April), and the Thanksgiving-Christmas corridor. Booking Sunday through Wednesday typically saves $20-40 per night compared to weekend stays at these budget properties.
How do I get from Orlando International Airport to these hotels?
None of these budget properties offer free airport shuttles. The cheapest option is the Lynx bus system (route 42 connects MCO to I-Drive for $2). Rideshares run $25-40 to hotels on I-Drive or Kissimmee. Rental cars start around $35/day and most properties offer free parking — that’s often the most cost-effective option for families visiting the parks.
Which of these hotels has the best location for walking to Universal?
Suburban Studios International Drive sits 1.5 miles from Universal Studios — the closest on this list for walkers. At a brisk pace, it’s a 30-minute walk. Clarion Inn at ICON Park is about 2 miles away. For everyone else, the I-Ride Trolley ($2/ride) or a $8-10 Uber works better. Properties right on I-Drive give you the best access to restaurants and the trolley line.