For a proper Disney-immersed stay that won’t break the bank, the Drury Plaza Hotel Orlando – Disney Springs Area rates 9.3/10 and sits right on the monorail-adjacent Hotel Plaza Blvd. Looking for lavish theming that goes beyond the parks? The Four Seasons Resort Orlando delivers AAA Five Diamond service with its own on-site Disney Planning Center. Both anchor the best-themed hotel stays in Orlando.
From condos steps from water parks to a tiny house in downtown, this guide breaks down 20 of the most character-packed stays in Orlando.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed over 8,500 guest reviews across these 20 themed properties to find the ones where the theming actually holds up — not just a coat of paint, but a real experience.
🎯 Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Best for Disney immersion: #1 Drury Plaza Hotel Orlando→ Rates
#7 Four Seasons Resort Orlando→ Rates - Best tiny home theming: #9 Downtown Tiny Life→ Rates
- Best for private pool theming: #17 Private Pool Disney Townhome→ Rates
- Best lakeside villa theming: #6 Bryan’s Spanish Cove→ Rates
- Best budget-friendly themed stay: #4 Holiday Inn Express Orlando – South Park→ 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.
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Quick Compare: Top Places To Stay
| Property | Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Drury Plaza Hotel Orlando – Disney Springs Area | (3,050+ Reviews) |
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| 2. The Berkley, Orlando | (1,000+ Reviews) |
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| 3. SpringHill Suites by Marriott Orlando Lake Nona | (600+ Reviews) |
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| 4. Holiday Inn Express Orlando – South Park by IHG | (250+ Reviews) |
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| 5. Evermore Orlando Resort | (250+ Reviews) |
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| 6. Bryan’s Spanish Cove | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 7. Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 8. Roy’s guest house | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 9. Downtown Tiny Life – Experience Tiny Living! | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 10. Pura Vida | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 11. College Park-Orlando 5Star Villa Oasis | (40+ Reviews) |
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| 12. VistaCay Balcony near Pool Convention Ctr iDrive | (40+ Reviews) |
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| 13. Orlando Oasis! Free Laundry & Parking Near Disney! | (40+ Reviews) |
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| 14. Spectacular view Blue Heron Beach Resort Near Disney | (40+ Reviews) |
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| 15. Near Pool*Balcony*VistaCay Convention Ctr & Idrive | (40+ Reviews) |
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| 16. Quiet Disney Condo w/ Balcony ~ 2 Miles to Disney World! | (40+ Reviews) |
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| 17. Private Pool Disney Townhome – Walk to Water Park | (30+ Reviews) |
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| 18. Disney World Vacation Home | (30+ Reviews) |
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| 19. Top Floor*Balcony*VistaCay Convention Ctr & Idrive | (30+ Reviews) |
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| 20. Lake House Retreat Near Downtown, Disney, Universal Studios | (30+ Reviews) |
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Detailed Reviews: 20 Best Themed Hotels in the US — Orlando Edition
1. Drury Plaza Hotel Orlando – Disney Springs Area
The Vibe
This is the theme-park anchor of the list. Perched right on Hotel Plaza Blvd within Disney Springs, the location alone scores a 9.6 – the best of any hotel in this roundup not on a private estate. The 3,050+ reviews backing a 9.3 rating tell you the buffet breakfast and hot tub are consistently great, not just occasional.
What You Actually Get
Family-sized rooms with air conditioning, private bathrooms, and free WiFi. The kitchenette and work desk keep things practical for a multi-day park run. The fitness center and sun terrace save you from feeling trapped during resort days. Pets? Up to two allowed, which is rare for this price bracket in Orlando. You’re sharing a parking lot with Disney Springs’ restaurants, so skip the rental car if you’re park-hopping.
Choose this if: you want guaranteed Disney proximity with a 9.3-rated track record that thousands of guests already confirmed.
Check Tonight’s Price for Drury Plaza Hotel Orlando – Disney Springs Area →
2. The Berkley, Orlando
The Vibe
A resort that wants you to stay put. Between the on-site movie theater and Crane’s Bend Golf Course 700 meters away, this is the pick for families wanting both Disney transfers and a non-park day with a purpose. The 9.2 location score underlines it’s well placed for SeaWorld and Universal too.
What You Actually Get
You get a separate living area with flat-screen cable TV, DVD player, and a balcony – solid for winding kids down after fireworks. Free transfer to Disney World, SeaWorld, and Universal Orlando saves you $30+/day in parking. The games room adds another indoor outlet. No mention of pet policy, so call ahead if bringing fur kids.
Choose this if: you want a resort with built-in entertainment beyond the parks – the theatre alone sets it apart.
3. SpringHill Suites by Marriott Orlando Lake Nona
The Vibe
Marriott’s reliability in the Lake Nona neighborhood – a quieter pocket of Orlando with good access to the airport and convention centers. The 9.2 location score and 9.0 overall from 600+ reviews mean it’s a consistent, no-surprises pick. Parquet floors and sofa beds make it feel a notch above standard hotel rooms.
What You Actually Get
Streaming services, parquet floors, sofa bed – all standard here. The year-round outdoor pool and fitness room handle the basics. Free parking saves the $20-30/night you’d drop closer to the parks. The buffet breakfast is included, which with a family of four adds up fast. Downside: the 9.0 rating is the lowest on this list, so temper expectations vs. the Drury or Holiday Inn Express.
Choose this if: you’re flying into MCO and want a Marriott-branded stay with reliable amenities and airport proximity.
Check Tonight’s Price for SpringHill Suites by Marriott Orlando Lake Nona →
4. Holiday Inn Express Orlando – South Park by IHG
The Vibe
This is the value king of the themed-hotel list. A 9.5 Exceptional rating from 250+ reviews with a 9.6 location score puts it in striking distance of the parks without the premium price tag. The year-round pool and hot tub combo makes it a strong recovery spot after a day of walking.
What You Actually Get
Private bathrooms, free WiFi, work desk, TV, and wardrobe – standard but done well. The fitness center adds a practical edge. Free parking is included, which here near Destination Parkway can save you $20+/night. IHG loyalty members stack points easily. The buffet breakfast brings daily variety, crucial for a week-long stay. Downside: no kids’ club or splash pad, so younger travelers may find it basic.
Choose this if: budget matters but you refuse to compromise on location and cleanliness – this hits the sweet spot.
Check Tonight’s Price for Holiday Inn Express Orlando – South Park by IHG →
5. Evermore Orlando Resort
The Vibe
This is the all-in-one resort with a private beach – a rare find in landlocked Orlando. The 9.7 location score signals it’s perfectly placed for Disney while feeling like a lakeside escape. American breakfast, Italian, and Mexican dining on-site means you don’t leave the property for food.
What You Actually Get
Family rooms with private bathrooms, air conditioning, and free WiFi. The private beach area is the centerpiece, with an infinity swimming pool and a spa and wellness center attached. Water sports are available – kayaking, paddleboarding – making this feel more waterfront resort than theme park crashpad. Free private parking is included. Note: guests under 25 must check in with a parent or guardian, so spring break groups beware.
Choose this if: you want a complete resort experience with a beach and spa, not just a hotel room near Disney.
6. Bryan’s Spanish Cove
The Vibe
An RCI Resort of International Distinction set on the shores of Lake Bryan. The 9.4 rating and 150+ reviews reflect a loyal guest base that values lakefront living a few miles from Disney. Guests rave about the comfy beds – a detail that matters after a long park day.
What You Actually Get
Apartments with full kitchens, living areas, and balconies overlooking the lake. The hot tub/Jacuzzi is a post-park winner. Located only 3 km from the Walt Disney Resort main gate, with SeaWorld and Universal Studios minutes away. Free parking is included. Note: the credit card used for booking must be presented at check-in, so don’t rely on a different card.
Choose this if: you want a lakefront RCI resort with kitchen facilities and easy park access without the theme park price markup.
7. Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort
The Vibe
The gold standard of themed stays. An AAA Five Diamond Resort on 26 acres of lakeside gardens with palm and cypress towers. The 9.7 location score is the highest on this list for a full-service resort. Comfy beds are a recurring guest highlight – the mattress alone might justify the price.
What You Actually Get
On-site Disney Planning Center, complimentary luxury shuttles to all four main Disney Parks, and a full spa. Tennis courts, golf course access within 3 km, and a private lake. Rooms feature private bathrooms, walk-in closets, and premium toiletries. Pet-friendly policies available – check in advance for fees. The 26-acre setting means you can actually escape the park crowds.
Choose this if: budget is a secondary concern and you want the absolute best guest experience, with a 9.7 location and comfy beds that guests rave about.
Check Tonight’s Price for Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort →
8. Roy’s guest house
The Vibe
A tiny, perfectly rated guest house that feels like a secret. 9.9/10 from 50+ reviews, with a location score of 10.0 – no other property on this list matches that perfection. It’s a standalone cottage with a garden, private parking, and a washing machine. Think of it as a themed stay for those who find the theme in quiet, cozy living.
What You Actually Get
One bedroom, a living room, and a bathroom with a kitchenette including a coffee machine. Air conditioning and free WiFi handle modern needs. The patio and garden extend your living space. Free private parking on-site is a major plus. Located on North Orange Avenue, it’s close to downtown Orlando but a 20-minute drive to Disney – better for those exploring Orlando itself.
Choose this if: you want a private, quiet stay with a kitchenette and garden, away from the theme park strip.
9. Downtown Tiny Life – Experience Tiny Living!
The Vibe
The most unique stay on this list: a fully functional tiny house with a 9.7 location score in downtown Orlando. It’s not just a gimmick – the kitchen has a refrigerator, microwave, oven, stovetop, and tea and coffee maker. Guests rate it 9.6/10, proving the concept works for a one- to two-night stay.
What You Actually Get
A living room with smart TV, a fully equipped kitchen, free WiFi, air conditioning, and a washing machine. Free private parking is a huge win for such a central downtown location. Note the 15:00 to 22:00 check-in window – plan your arrival accordingly. This is for the curious traveler who wants to Instagram the stay, not the large family.
Choose this if: you’re a solo traveler or couple who wants an Instagrammable, practical downtown stay with full kitchen access.
Check Tonight’s Price for Downtown Tiny Life – Experience Tiny Living! →
10. Pura Vida
The Vibe
Pura Vida is an aparthotel with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and an infinity swimming pool – the kind of stay where the pool IS the theme. The 9.6 location score places it near Disney while the lake views from the balcony add a resort feel. Guests rate it 9.5/10 for a reason.
What You Actually Get
Three bedrooms with air conditioning, a fully equipped kitchenette, and a balcony overlooking the garden or lake. The infinity swimming pool and fitness center are shared facilities. Free WiFi in public areas. Free parking is included. The sun terrace is a bonus for afternoon reading. Downside: check-in is at a separate location, so read the booking details carefully.
Choose this if: you’re a group of up to six wanting an apartment-style stay with a killer infinity pool near the parks.
11. College Park-Orlando 5Star Villa Oasis – Home Away From Home
The Vibe
A 9.9-rated guest house with a private botanical courtyard and free bicycles. This is the stay for those who want a quiet, residential neighborhood vibe with easy access to downtown Orlando and Winter Park. The 9.7 location score reflects its desirability.
What You Actually Get
Recently renovated rooms with free WiFi, air conditioning, and private bathrooms. The outdoor fireplace and terrace extend your living space. Free bicycles are available for exploring College Park. The private courtyard is a botanical sanctuary. Free parking and EV plug-in are major bonuses. Guests appreciate the quiet Harrison Avenue location, a stark contrast to the I-Drive corridor.
Choose this if: you want a residential, walkable neighborhood experience with free bikes and a courtyard, not a theme park compound.
Check Tonight’s Price for College Park-Orlando 5Star Villa Oasis – Home Away From Home →
12. VistaCay Balcony near Pool Convention Ctr iDrive
The Vibe
Part of the VistaCay complex near the convention center, this is a three-bedroom, two-bathroom holiday home that functions like a furnished apartment with resort amenities. The 9.7 overall rating and 9.9 location score make it a top-tier pick for groups.
What You Actually Get
Private entrance, fully equipped kitchen with modern appliances, air conditioning, and free WiFi. The complex offers a fitness center and outdoor swimming pool. Free parking on-site. Located on Cayview Avenue, it’s minutes from the Orange County Convention Center and I-Drive’s restaurants. No mention of pet policy, so assume not pet-friendly.
Choose this if: you’re a group attending a convention or want a spacious, hotel-adjacent apartment with a pool.
Check Tonight’s Price for VistaCay Balcony near Pool Convention Ctr iDrive →
13. Orlando Oasis! Free Laundry & Parking Near Disney!
The Vibe
A practical holiday home in Orlando city centre that emphasizes free laundry and parking – the unsung needs of any extended stay. The 9.4 rating from 40+ reviews confirms it delivers on these basics without fuss.
What You Actually Get
Three bedrooms, a living room, and a fully equipped kitchen. Free WiFi, air conditioning, streaming services (Netflix/Disney+ built-in), and a washing machine with a dryer. Free private parking is included. The South Ferncreek Avenue location is central but 15-20 minutes from Disney without traffic. Note: you must inform the property of your arrival time in advance.
Choose this if: you’re on a 7+ day trip and need a dedicated laundry day – this property has your back.
Check Tonight’s Price for Orlando Oasis! Free Laundry & Parking Near Disney! →
14. Spectacular view Blue Heron Beach Resort Near Disney
The Vibe
Blue Heron Beach Resort delivers exactly what its name promises: a spectacular view. The 9.5 rating and 40+ reviews reflect a high-quality apartment at Lake Buena Vista with a sauna, fitness center, and year-round outdoor pool. The 9.6 location score places it near Disney without the resort markup.
What You Actually Get
One bedroom, two bathrooms, and a living room with sofa bed and parquet floors. Free WiFi, air conditioning, and a fully equipped kitchenette. The sauna and sun terrace are shared facilities. Free parking is included. The apartment is on the 20th floor (check unit number), providing elevated lake views. Note: check-in requires the credit card used for booking.
Choose this if: you want a high-rise lake view with spa amenities and Disney proximity without paying Four Seasons prices.
Check Tonight’s Price for Spectacular view Blue Heron Beach Resort Near Disney →
15. Near Pool*Balcony*VistaCay Convention Ctr & Idrive
The Vibe
Another VistaCay property, this one emphasizing proximity to the convention center and a hot tub + balcony combo. The 9.7 overall rating and 10.0 location score (the highest on this list tied with Roy’s) speak for themselves.
What You Actually Get
Three bedrooms, two bathrooms, fully equipped kitchen, and air conditioning. The outdoor swimming pool and hot tub are shared with the complex. Free on-site private parking is included. The private entrance adds privacy. Like #12, this is ideal for convention attendees who want a home base near the Orange County Convention Center.
Choose this if: you’re attending a convention at the OCCC and want a top-rated apartment with hot tub access and free parking.
Check Tonight’s Price for Near Pool*Balcony*VistaCay Convention Ctr & Idrive →
16. Quiet Disney Condo w/ Balcony ~ 2 Miles to Disney World!
The Vibe
A recently renovated 3BR condo in the Celebration community, exactly 2 miles from Disney World. The 9.9 location score and 9.7 overall rating from 40+ reviews make it a top-tier choice for Disney-focused groups who want a quiet, residential setting with a balcony overlooking the garden.
What You Actually Get
Three bedrooms, two bathrooms, fully equipped kitchen, and a living area. The balcony offers garden views. The complex has a fitness center, tennis court, and year-round outdoor swimming pool – enough to fill non-park days. Free WiFi. Free private parking. Downside: check-in requires the credit card used for booking.
Choose this if: you want a recently renovated condo just minutes from Disney with tennis and pool amenities in a peaceful setting.
Check Tonight’s Price for Quiet Disney Condo w/ Balcony ~ 2 Miles to Disney World! →
17. Private Pool Disney Townhome – Walk to Water Park
The Vibe
The ultimate themed family townhome: your own private saltwater swimming pool, a location that scores 9.9, and walkable to a water park. The 9.7 overall rating from 30+ reviews proves this isn’t just a listing gimmick – it’s a genuinely well-maintained property.
What You Actually Get
Three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a living room, dining area, and fully equipped kitchen. The private saltwater pool is the star. The complex adds a fitness center, sun terrace, and water sports facilities. Free private parking. Located on Otterspool Street in Celebration, you’re within a 5-minute walk to a water park entrance. Downside: 30+ reviews is a smaller sample, but the 9.7 consistency is strong.
Choose this if: a private saltwater pool is non-negotiable for your Disney vacation – this is the only one on the list with that feature.
Check Tonight’s Price for Private Pool Disney Townhome – Walk to Water Park →
18. Disney World Vacation Home
The Vibe
A four-bedroom, three-bathroom vacation home in Celebration with a 9.8 location score and 24-hour check-in – a rare combination for holiday homes. The 9.6 rating from 30+ reviews reflects its reliability for larger groups.
What You Actually Get
Four bedrooms with air conditioning, three bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher, and streaming services on the TV. The year-round outdoor swimming pool and free WiFi round out the offering. Free private parking. The 24-hour check-in window is a significant advantage for late-night arrivals. Note: quiet hours from 23:00 to 07:00 are enforced, so no late-night parties.
Choose this if: you’re a large family with a late flight needing a spacious home with flexible check-in and a private pool.
19. Top Floor*Balcony*VistaCay Convention Ctr & Idrive
The Vibe
The top-floor VistaCay unit with a balcony overlooking a lake. The 9.6 rating and 9.7 location score are strong, but the headliner is the view. It’s the same complex as #12 and #15 but on a higher floor, offering better sightlines.
What You Actually Get
Three bedrooms, two bathrooms, fully equipped kitchen, air conditioning, and balcony with lake views. The outdoor swimming pool, fitness room, and hot tub are shared facilities. Free on-site private parking. The top floor also means less noise from the pool deck. Located on Cayview Avenue, near the convention center and I-Drive.
Choose this if: you want the best view in the VistaCay complex with a hot tub and a balcony for evening relaxation.
Check Tonight’s Price for Top Floor*Balcony*VistaCay Convention Ctr & Idrive →
20. Lake House Retreat Near Downtown, Disney, Universal Studios and Airport
The Vibe
A lake house on Lake Holden that’s pet-friendly and positioned near downtown, Disney, Universal, and the airport – the most geographically versatile pick. The 9.7 rating from 30+ reviews reflects guest satisfaction with the location and comfort.
What You Actually Get
Three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a sun terrace, and a garden. Fully equipped kitchen, washing machine, and free WiFi. Air conditioning and free toiletries are provided. Pet-friendly – a rarity on this list. The 9.3 location score is solid but lower than the Celebration properties because it’s farther from the Disney bubble. Quiet hours are enforced, so respectful neighbors are a given.
Choose this if: you’re traveling with pets and want a lakefront home that’s a reasonable drive to both Disney and Universal.
Check Tonight’s Price for Lake House Retreat Near Downtown, Disney, Universal Studios →
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
🏆 Best Overall
#1 Drury Plaza Hotel Orlando – Disney Springs Area
Unmatched 9.6 location score, 3,050+ reviews backing a 9.3 rating, and the Disney Springs adjacency make this the safest, smartest pick for any Disney-bound traveler.
Check Tonight’s Price for Drury Plaza Hotel Orlando – Disney Springs Area →
💰 Best Value
#4 Holiday Inn Express Orlando – South Park by IHG
A 9.5 Exceptional rating with free parking, a hot tub, and a 9.6 location at a price point that undercuts most of the list – the budgeting traveler’s dream.
Check Tonight’s Price for Holiday Inn Express Orlando – South Park by IHG →
🎢 Most Immersive Themed Stay
#17 Private Pool Disney Townhome – Walk to Water Park
A private saltwater pool, 9.9 location, and walking distance to a water park – the ultimate best themed hotels in the us experience for families who want Disney theming at their own front door.
Check Tonight’s Price for Private Pool Disney Townhome – Walk to Water Park →
How We Ranked These Orlando Hotels
I evaluated 20 properties in the Orlando area, focusing on guest review scores, location proximity to Disney and Universal, unique themed features (private pools, tiny houses, lakefront views), and the consistency of positive feedback across 8,500+ total verified reviews.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 8.0+ overall and 10+ verified reviews
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized location and overall guest rating – the categories that drive themed-stay satisfaction
- Amenity verification: Cross-referenced advertised amenities against guest review patterns for pools, hot tubs, and kitchens
- Location signals: Proximity to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and the Orange County Convention Center
Frequently Asked Questions
Which hotels on this list are pet-friendly?
Drury Plaza Hotel Orlando (#1) allows up to 2 pets per booking. The Four Seasons Resort Orlando (#7) has pet-friendly policies but requires advance fee confirmation. The Lake House Retreat (#20) is explicitly pet-friendly – always confirm exact fees before check-in. For the others, assume pets are not allowed unless listed.
Can I check in late at any of these properties?
Yes. The Disney World Vacation Home (#18) offers 24-hour check-in. Bryan’s Spanish Cove (#6) and College Park Villa Oasis (#11) have check-in windows until midnight (00:00). Most others require check-in by 22:00-23:00. Properties like Roy’s guest house (#8) and Pura Vida (#10) have limited windows, so always confirm your arrival time in advance.
What’s the most walkable area in Orlando for hotel guests?
Lake Buena Vista, specifically the Disney Springs area (where #1 Drury Plaza is located), is the most walkable for visitors staying on this list. You can walk to dozens of restaurants and shops at Disney Springs without a car. The VistaCay properties (#12, #15, #19) are located near the Orange County Convention Center and I-Drive, which is more walkable than the Celebration area condos but less so than Disney Springs.
When’s the best time to visit Orlando for themed hotel stays?
January through April (excluding spring break) offer the best combination of lower hotel rates and manageable park crowds. September and October are the cheapest months for these properties, though hurricane season is active. The holiday season (November-December) sees peak prices and full occupancy – book at least 3 months ahead for the Drury Plaza, Four Seasons, or any of the Celebration condos.
How do I get from Orlando International Airport (MCO) to these hotels?
The Berkley (#2) and Four Seasons (#7) offer complimentary shuttles at set times. For others, a rental car is recommended – almost all properties on this list offer free parking. Ride-shares via Uber or Lyft from MCO cost $30-45 to the Lake Buena Vista area and $25-35 to downtown locations like College Park or South Ferncreek Avenue. The VistaCay condos (#12, #15, #19) near the convention center are the closest cluster to the airport, roughly 15-20 minutes by car.