Orlando is home to a variety of theme parks and other attractions that make it crucial to find the perfect accommodation option to enjoy everything this city has to offer. Whether you are enjoying the very best of Disney World but also want to spend some time at Universal Orlando Resort, why not choose a hotel that is situated perfectly in between both of these in the heart of International Drive? The Hilton Orlando International Drive is an affordable yet luxurious hotel option that we can highly recommend following our recent stay here.
Rather than focusing solely on a hotel review, we are going to share several reasons why the Hilton Orlando International Drive is the perfect place to stay to experience all of Orlando’s top attractions. For those of you that are loyal Hilton brand followers, this is another amazing option that you should add to your portfolio of hotels that you need to experience.
But it’s more than just the stereotypical hotel experience that made us fall in love with this Hilton. Let’s find out a few reasons why we think this Hilton will be on your radar for your next visit to Orlando, Florida.
Hilton Orlando Resort Location
We frequently coin the phrase “Location, Location, Location” when it comes to reviewing hotels in destinations around the world and I think it’s fair to say this hotel epitomizes this philosophy. What determines whether a hotel is located in the ideal spot is subject to personal opinion but we would always argue that easy access to airports, public transportation and key attractions within the destination are integral components of this assessment.
However, you may argue that Orlando is home to a plethora of hotel options that are in a great location and this is a legitimate argument. But when you are situated no more than 10 miles from any of Orlando’s theme parks (Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort and Sea World), and located on International Drive, a spot frequently renowned as the heartbeat of the city, it’s easy to see why we would choose the Hilton Orlando International Drive hotel over any of the competition.
Located only 13 miles from Orlando International Airport, this is also a convenient option for folks that are planning on renting a car to explore Orlando or prefer to take public transportation such as an Uber or Super Shuttle.
Distance and Directions to Attractions
- Walt Disney World – 9 miles (Directions from Hilton Orlando to Walt Disney World)
- Universal Orlando Resort – 6 miles (Directions from Hilton Orlando to Universal Orlando Resort)
- Sea World – 4 miles (Directions from Hilton Orlando to Sea World Orlando)
- Orlando Eye – 2.5 miles (Directions from Hilton Orlando to Coca-Cola Orlando Eye)
Above are just a few directions to some of Orlando’s most popular landmarks. We completely understand if you think staying “on-site” at one of these theme parks is the better option but if you are planning on experiencing a variety of spots, we are convinced that the Hilton Orlando International Drive is an excellent choice!
Address
6001 Destination Parkway
Orlando FL, 32819
Tel: (407)313-4300
Website: Hilton Orlando Resort
Click Here for Directions from Orlando International Airport to Hilton Orlando Resort
Nearby Attractions
If you have read any of our recent posts, you will know that this was our first visit to Walt Disney World and it will be no surprise when we say we had an AMAZING experience there. But we had a variety of “first-time experiences” during our recent visit to Orlando, including experiencing Universal Orlando Resort and also the Coca-Cola Orlando Eye.
If you are staying at the Hilton Orlando International Drive, here are 5 awesome attractions you won’t want to miss!
Walt Disney World
A trip to Orlando wouldn’t be the same without spending some time at Walt Disney World! Renowned as “The Happiest Place On Earth,” this is one of those iconic attractions around the world that everyone wants to experience at least once in their lifetime.
Heather and I visited here for the first time and we can well and truly attest that we cannot wait to return in the future (Heather is already planning a trip back there in the next few weeks!).
From the iconic Cinderella’s Castle at Magic Kingdom to the amazing variety of international experiences awaiting you at Epcot’s World Showcase, the challenge when visiting Walt Disney World is figuring out what to experience in the time you allocate to these theme parks.
Be sure to check out our post on the best things to do if you choose to try and explore Disney World in one day!
Universal Orlando Resort
If a day at Disney World doesn’t spark your interest, perhaps experiencing the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and much more at Universal Orlando Resort will intrigue you.
Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios are the two flagship theme parks but the brand new Volcano Bay Water Park is sure to inspire all the family to visit this part of Orlando.
Whether you are taking a stroll around Hogsmeade Village or stumbling across your favorite Simpsons character in Springfield, you can be sure that Universal Orlando Resort will have something that interests you.
We enjoyed two awesome days here exploring both Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios and it’s fair to say that we left feeling like we barely touched the surface despite having such amazing adventures! You can read all about the best things at Islands of Adventure here.
Coca-Cola Orlando Eye
One of the closest attractions to the Hilton Orlando is the Coca-Cola Orlando Eye! This 400-feet Ferris wheel offers visitors the opportunity to admire a birds-eye view of Orlando while enjoying the comfort of a fully enclosed air-conditioned capsule.
Take a moment to escape, and discover the magic and natural wonder Orlando has to offer from above.
We had an amazing 23-minute experience on the Orlando Eye and we can highly recommend taking this during the late evening to enjoy a breathtaking Orlando sunset.
International Drive
International Drive is at the “center of the fun and excitement of your vacation!” When I read this slogan on the website devoted to promoting this part of Orlando, I knew that this was going to be the real heartbeat of the city. Renowned as a “dynamic destination,” International Drive is home to various restaurants, attractions, shopping and much more.
The Orlando Eye that we just referenced is in the heart of International Drive but this is just one of the many attractions that you can experience. A 7D (that’s right, 7D!!) dark ride adventure offers visitors the opportunity to be transformed into another world while SEA LIFE Orlando will transport you into an underwater adventure.
Both of these are part of the complex that houses the Orlando Eye, so even if strolling up and down International Drive doesn’t sound appealing, you can be sure to find plenty of things to do in one spot.
However, it’s the experience of walking International Drive or hopping on the I-Ride Trolley that makes this such a cool place to be. After all that walking, you will deserve a treat so be sure to check out Shake Shack or the Sugar Factory if you have a sweet tooth!
The benefit of staying at the Hilton Orlando is that International Drive is easily within walking distance, so you are never too far away from all the fun this area of Orlando has to offer!
Premium Outlet Malls
A visit to Orlando wouldn’t be the same without adding a little retail therapy to your itinerary. If you are staying at the Hilton Orlando International Drive, it’s only a short distance from not one but TWO awesome Premium Outlet Malls. The Orlando International Premium Outlets and Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets offer similar stores (with some differences) but are both worth experiencing if you enjoy a little shopping on vacation.
Visitors to the Orlando International Premium Outlets will experience Florida’s largest and most unique outlet shopping destination with over 180 stores (many of them leading designer brands) available. It’s no surprise that folks can frequently spend a full day enjoying everything this outlet mall has to offer.
Conveniently accessible via the I-Ride Trolley service, the challenging aspect of visiting both of these malls is figuring out how to carry all of your bags following your shopping spree and determining how you will get all of your new purchases home!
Hilton Orlando Dining Options
For those of you that prefer to enjoy the on site restaurants at the Hilton Orlando International Drive, you won’t be disappointed by the variety on offer. Whether you are looking to enjoy breakfast before heading out to explore one of the aforementioned attractions or perhaps enjoy a late evening aperitif, the Hilton Orlando has various options available to its guests.
David’s Club Bar & Grill is a typical American “Gastro Pub” designed with a perfect blend of contemporary and luxury decor while offering a distinctive variety of cuisine options.
Local craft beers are available as are a myriad of stereotypical choices that you associate with a modern day bar.
If you are just looking to enjoy a light snack, this is definitely a great place to do this.
Spencer’s is renowned as being “sophisticated and approachable” but certainly adds a little something extra to your traditional steakhouse.
An evening you will never forget in a destination you will always remember.
A signature “raw bar” is one of the popular attractions of this restaurant and this is definitely a spot worth considering if you want to experience one of Orlando’s finest steakhouses.
The Bistro is the perfect spot to grab a refreshing breakfast while for those of you that want to enjoy the gorgeous swimming pool at the Hilton Orlando, check out the Tropics Pool Bar And Grill.
Amenities
Although most guests in a hotel are looking to enjoy the comfort and relaxation offered in the hotel room, having access to a myriad of on site amenities is certainly an appealing attraction. If you are staying at the Hilton Orlando International Drive location, you don’t have to worry about amenities because there are plenty of them to keep you at the hotel rather than venturing off to explore the city.
The gorgeous swimming pool and lazy river are spectacular amenities at the Hilton Orlando. The zero-entry feature means that you can walk into the pool without having to worry about clambering up and down steps. A winding water slide is an additional feature for all the family to enjoy while for those that prefer to relax out of the water, there is a 10,000 square-foot pool deck with lounge chairs. Those that want a little more privacy can rent one of the cabanas available.
Why not consider pampering yourself by heading over to the Eforea Spa and enjoy a relaxing massage in a tropical oasis in the heart of Florida!
eforea spa at Hilton Orlando is a place like no other where you will reconnect with self and emerge brighter
A variety of packages are available and guests are encouraged to consider this option as the ultimate relaxation experience, particularly after a busy few days exploring Orlando’s iconic theme parks. There is nothing quite like a massage to work out those aches and pains!
In Room Relaxation
I am sure you are all waiting to see what to expect when you enter your room (or suite) at the Hilton Orlando International Drive hotel. Don’t worry, you won’t be disappointed! Spacious, comfortable, modern and relaxing are all superlatives I would use to describe the overall look and feel of the guest rooms at this hotel.
We enjoyed a gorgeous view overlooking International Drive and the Coca-Cola Orlando Eye while others offer views across the gorgeous pool. The decor throughout the room offers a warm and relaxing feel, yet with the amount of natural light pouring in, it’s the perfect blend to create the ultimate relaxation experience.
The natural tile shower and granite bathroom vanity showcase the intricate details of the room design while offering yet another relaxing experience for guests to enjoy all of the in-room amenities associated with the Hilton brand.
As we frequently say when reviewing hotels, when you experience a room that makes it difficult to get up in the morning and leave for the day, you know you have found a great place to stay!
Summary
Are you convinced that the Hilton Orlando International Drive is a great place to stay on your next visit to Orlando? This is definitely at the very top of our list of the best hotels in Orlando, especially if you want somewhere that is perfectly located to explore the very best of Orlando’s attractions.
Although we didn’t mention price during this review, this is a very affordable hotel and you can frequently find rooms here for as low as $99 per night! It’s a real bargain for this type of location.
We are looking forward to returning to Orlando in the near future and are delighted to be able to add this Hilton Orlando Resort to our portfolio of amazing hotels that we will continue to stay at in the future.
Disclaimer – We would like to thank the Hilton Orlando Resort for hosting us for a one-night stay in exchange for consideration of a blog post review. These are solely our personal opinions/experiences and we were not financially compensated for this post.