Where to stay in Orlando for couples: 5 Best areas

Hi guys, on my website, I already wrote an article about Orlando without a car (I will put the link to it at the end of this article). In today’s article, I will help you to find the best places to stay in Orlando for couples.

I will share with you what I believe are the best areas to stay in Orlando for couples, along with a helpful map. I’ll also share where I stayed in Orlando and recommend some of the best hotels for all budgets.

Orlando is a a popular tourist destination in central Florida, United States. The city is often called the Theme Park Capital of the World as it is home to Walt Disney World Resort, SeaWorld Orlando, Universal Orlando Resort (Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure), and LEGOLAND Florida Resort. 

Orlando has a well-developed transportation network, including an international airport (Orlando International Airport), major highways, and public transit options.

Is Orlando good for couples to visit?  

Orlando is a great destination for couples seeking a mix of adventure and romance. While renowned for its family-friendly attractions, this city offers plenty of romantic experiences. 

You and your partner can take leisurely strolls around Lake Eola, dine at upscale restaurants, or explore charming neighborhoods like Winter Park. You can explore the magic of Disney together, experience thrilling rides at Universal Studios, or relax at luxurious resorts. 

With its year-round pleasant weather, Orlando sets the stage for outdoor adventures and intimate moments. Whether it’s a hot air balloon ride at sunrise or a night out at downtown bars, Orlando offers a wide range of options to create cherished memories for couples.

Where to stay in Orlando for couples?

The best areas to stay in Orlando for couples are Downtown Orlando, International Drive, Lake Buena Vista/ Walt Disney World, Kissimmee/Celebration, and Universal Orlando. Each area has its own unique charm and advantages, so consider your preferences when making your decision.

Downtown Orlando is the best area for couples who enjoy a mix of dining, nightlife, and cultural experiences. You’ll have access to a variety of restaurants, bars, theaters, and cultural attractions. It is not as close to the major theme parks, so you may need to drive to reach them.

International Drive (I-Drive) is the best place for couples who want easy access to a wide range of entertainment and dining options. It is close to Universal Orlando Resort, ICON Park, and a short drive to Walt Disney World. The area can be crowded and touristy.

Lake Buena Vista/Walt Disney World is the Best base Couples who plan to spend a significant amount of time at Walt Disney World. Universal Orlando Area is best suited for couples planning to visit Universal Orlando Resort.

Kissimmee/Celebration is the best location for couples looking for a quieter, budget-friendly hotel, more suburban atmosphere with easy access to both Disney and Universal park. It has less vibrant nightlife and fewer dining options compared to Downtown Orlando or I-Drive.

During my trip to Orlando, I stayed at Embassy Suites by Hilton Orlando International Drive. It is a great 3-star hotel, conveniently located on I-Drive, easy access to major tourist attractions and amenities. Universal Studios, Walt Disney World, and Sea Worlds are all short rides away.

Below is a map of the popular areas in Orlando for couples. You can scroll down to view the live map.

Map of the best areas to stay in Orlando for couples
Map of the best areas to stay in Orlando for couples

Let’s get into the details of the recommended areas to stay in Orlando, especially for couples. I’ll provide you with some suggestions for the best places to stay in each area, catering to every budget. 

All hotels in Orlando have been carefully selected by me, with guest review scores of at least 8.0 or higher at the time I chose them. If you don’t like my suggestions (perhaps they don’t suit your budget or preferences), you can click the “MORE HOTEL DEALS” button where you can choose your own hotel.

5 Best areas to stay in Orlando for couples:

1. Downtown Orlando

Downtown Orlando is a great choice for couples looking for a lively urban experience with access to dining, nightlife, and cultural attractions. Downtown has several hotels and boutique accommodations that cater to couples. 

Downtown Orlando comes alive at night with bars, clubs, and entertainment venues. You can enjoy a night out with your partner by exploring bars and lounges for cocktails, live music, or dancing.

Take advantage of the cultural attractions in the area, such as the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, the Orlando Museum of Art, and the Orlando Science Center. These venues often host special events and exhibitions that can make for a memorable date night.

Also Visit Lake Eola Park, a picturesque urban park in the heart of downtown. You can rent swan boats, take a leisurely stroll around the lake, or have a picnic. The park often hosts events and concerts, providing a relaxing and scenic backdrop for your visit.

Downtown Orlando is walkable, and you can easily explore the area on foot. If you plan to visit theme parks or attractions outside of downtown, consider renting a car or using rideshare services.

Best places to stay in Downtown Orlando for couples:

MORE HOTEL DEALS IN DOWNTOWN ORLANDO

2. International Drive

International Drive (I-Drive) is a popular tourist district in Orlando known for its entertainment, dining, and shopping options. It’s an excellent base for couples looking for a lively and convenient location with easy access to many of Orlando’s attractions. 

Many hotels in the area cater to couples with romantic packages and amenities. You can choose a hotel with a spa, pool, or other couples-focused amenities for a more enjoyable stay. Many hotels offer shuttle services to theme parks. 

International Drive is centrally located and provides easy access to several major theme parks, including Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando, and Walt Disney World. This makes it an ideal choice if you plan to visit multiple parks during your stay.

There’s no shortage of entertainment options on I-Drive. Enjoy attractions like ICON Park, which features the ICON Orlando Observation Wheel and Madame Tussauds Orlando, or visit the Orlando StarFlyer for thrilling views of the city. You can also catch live shows and performances at various theaters in the area.

You can explore the numerous shopping outlets and stores along International Drive. You’ll find everything from designer boutiques to outlet malls, making it a great place for shopping enthusiasts.

I-Drive has a vibrant nightlife scene with bars, clubs, and lounges. Enjoy a night out with your partner by checking out some of the nightlife hotspots in the area.

Best places to stay in Orlando in International Drive for couples:

  • Mid-range ($$): Castle Hotel, Autograph Collection by Marriott, 4-star hotel, located on  Universal Boulevard, within walking distance from I-drive with lots of attractions and restaurants, and a short drive from Universal.
  • Mid-range ($$): Rosen Plaza Hotel Orlando Convention Center, 4-star accommodation located on International Drive, offering paid airport and theme park transfer service. Easy access to Walt Disney World and Universal Studios.
  • Budget ($): Embassy Suites by Hilton Orlando International Drive, 3-star hotel, centrally located on I-drive, within walking distance from major attractions in the area such as the Orlando Eye, Madame Tussauds, and SEA LIFE Aquarium, and Ripley’s Believe It or Not – Orlando.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN INTERNATIONAL DRIVE

3. Lake Buena Vista/ Walt Disney World

Lake Buena Vista/ Walt Disney World is a fantastic area if you’re both Disney fans or if you’re celebrating a special occasion. The Disney magic, themed experiences, and convenience make it a memorable destination for couples.

You can consider staying at one of Disney’s on-property resorts for an immersive and convenient experience. Many Disney resorts have romantic themes and amenities like spa services, fine dining restaurants, and private pools.

Staying in this area provides easy access to all of the Disney theme parks, including Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. You can use Disney transportation or drive to the parks, reducing travel time.

Explore Disney Springs for shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It’s a great place for an evening out with live music, waterfront dining, and unique shops.

Disney provides complimentary transportation options for resort guests, including buses, boats, and the Disney Skyliner. These make it easy to get around the Disney property without the need for a car.

Be prepared for potentially larger crowds and higher prices compared to staying off Disney property. However, the convenience and immersive experience can be worth it for Disney enthusiasts.

Best places to stay in Lake Buena Vista/ Walt Disney World for couples:

  • Luxury ($$$): Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek, popular hotel located minutes away from Walt Disney World, featuring indoor/ outdoor treatment rooms, relaxation area, and lagoon-style pool. 
  • Mid-range ($$): Buena Vista Suites Orlando, 4-star hotel located just a short drive from Walt Disney World Resort, offering a heated outdoor pool, free breakfast, and scheduled shuttle to Walt Disney World .
  • Budget ($): Grand Beach Resort, 3-star accommodation that has Outdoor pools and a lakeside beach, and watersport activities on Little Lake Bryan.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN LAKE BUENA VISTA

4. Kissimmee/Celebration

Kissimmee and Celebration are great options for couples seeking a budget-friendly area, local charm, a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere.  

These areas are also conveniently located near Walt Disney World Resort, making it easy to access the Disney parks. Universal Orlando Resort and SeaWorld Orlando are also a relatively short drive away.

Best places to stay in Orlando in Kissimmee/Celebration for couples:

MORE HOTEL DEALS IN KISSIMMEE/CELEBRATION

5. Universal Orlando Area

The Universal Orlando area is a great base for couples who are planning to visit Universal Orlando Resort and want to be close to the action. This area offers easy access to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure.

You can consider staying at one of the on-site Universal hotels for added convenience and perks, such as early park access and transportation to the parks.

Universal CityWalk is a vibrant entertainment district with bars, clubs, live music venues, and dining options. It’s a great place for a fun night out with your partner.

Take advantage of the various experiences at Universal Orlando Resort, including thrilling rides, immersive themed lands, and live shows. Some attractions, like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, offer incredible attention to detail.

Many of the Universal hotels have pools and relaxing amenities where you can unwind after a day at the parks. Consider booking a spa treatment or simply lounging by the pool.

Best places to stay in Universal Orlando Area for couples:

  • Luxury ($$$): Universal’s Hard Rock Hotel, 4-star hotel situated at Universal Orlando, Offering free Universal Express Unlimited ride access to skip the regular lines at most popular attractions in Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure. A few mins walk/ water taxi from CityWalk nightlife.
  • Budget ($): DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando, great hotel located across from the entrance to Universal Orlando Resort, easy access to major attractions. 
  • Budget ($): Wyndham Garden Orlando Universal / I Drive, great 3-star accommodation, centrally located for easy access to Universal Studio and the popular I-Drive area.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN UNIVERSAL ORLANDO AREA

In conclusion, Downtown Orlando, International Drive, Lake Buena Vista/ Walt Disney World, Kissimmee/Celebration, and Universal Orlando are the best places to stay in Orlando for couples. These areas have a wide range of accommodations and activities for you and your loved one.

You can continue reading about Orlando in these articles:

There you have it, my recommendations for the popular areas and neighborhoods that you can stay during your trip to Orlando with your partner. I hope you found my article helpful and enjoy your holiday!

About Author: Ocean Cameron

I'm Ocean, founder and main editor of travelhotelexpert.com. I’m a passionate traveler who specializes in uncovering the best hotels and locations in every city, especially for first-timers, all without the need for a car.

Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. This means that, at absolutely no additional cost to you, I'll earn a small commission if you click through and purchase something I've recommended. I only recommend products that I use myself or firmly believe in. Thank you!

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