Orlando, Florida, has long been synonymous with magical family vacations, hosting some of the world’s most famous theme parks like Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort. However, for travelers planning a trip to this entertainment capital, one critical question arises: Is it better to stay on-property at the parks or opt for off-property accommodations?
With more than 130,000 hotel rooms, 47,000 vacation rentals, and 26,000 timeshare units available throughout the greater Orlando area, according to Visit Orlando, guests are spoiled for choice. Both Disney and Universal offer a range of official hotels packed with perks like early park access, free transportation, and immersive theming. Yet off-property options present enticing alternatives, offering larger spaces, competitive pricing, and home-like comforts.
Recently, a stay at Villatel Orlando Resort illuminated the advantages and trade-offs of choosing accommodations outside the theme park gates. Here’s what families and travelers should consider before booking.
The Off-Property Experience: Comforts of Home With Resort-Style Perks
Located between Universal’s existing parks and the upcoming Epic Universe, Villatel Orlando Resort blends the independence of a vacation rental with the conveniences of a traditional resort. Guests can choose from two- to nine-bedroom units, ranging from townhomes to freestanding villas, offering ample space, fully equipped kitchens, laundry facilities, and even elaborately themed children’s bedrooms.
During a recent visit, a three-bedroom apartment with marble finishes and stylish décor provided far more space and luxury than typical hotel rooms. Although dining out was still an option, having a full kitchen offered the flexibility to save on meals, a crucial consideration for families on extended stays.
Other amenities at Villatel included a lazy river, a gym, basketball and pickleball courts, a covered playground, and free shuttle service to both Disney and Universal parks. Water park access and morning yoga sessions rounded out a well-balanced stay, combining relaxation with recreation.
Similar resort-style properties off-property include Evermore Orlando Resort and Margaritaville Resort Orlando, offering travelers more personalized lodging experiences.
Budget Benefits: More Space for Less Cost
One of the strongest arguments for staying off-property is value for money.
For example, during Memorial Day weekend—a busy travel period coinciding with the Epic Universe opening—a five-bedroom villa at Villatel was priced at around $654 per night (with a two-night minimum). In comparison, standard rooms at Universal’s newly opened Helios Grand Hotel were listed at $745 per night, while premium Disney properties like Disney’s Contemporary Resort and Wilderness Lodge exceeded $730 nightly without promotions.
While Disney and Universal offer lower-cost hotels like Universal’s Endless Summer Resorts or Disney’s All-Star Resorts, off-property options generally provide larger accommodations for a comparable or lower price, especially for bigger families or groups needing multiple rooms.
Location and Transportation: Balancing Convenience
Although Orlando hotels are typically described as “minutes away” from the parks, visitors should keep in mind that minutes are relative. Walt Disney World itself is nearly twice the size of Manhattan, meaning it can take 10–20 minutes to drive across the property. Traffic between Disney and Universal is also a near-constant reality.
While Villatel and similar resorts offer shuttle services, they may not align with every family’s daily park plans. Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft offer flexibility but come with additional costs. Travelers should also account for theme park parking fees:
- $30/day at Disney World
- $32/day at Universal Orlando
By contrast, Disney and Universal hotels include free transportation throughout their properties, adding an extra layer of convenience for on-property guests.
So, Is Staying Off-Property Worth It?
The answer depends on your family’s priorities and travel style.
Here’s a breakdown of key factors to help you decide:
- Size Matters: If you want more space, particularly multiple bedrooms and kitchens, off-property resorts offer significantly better options for less money.
- Park Perks: If early access, proximity, or surprise character encounters are essential to your trip, staying on-property might be worth the premium.
- Transportation Needs: If you’re renting a car or don’t mind rideshares, off-property is manageable. If you want seamless, built-in park access, on-site hotels are better.
- Dining Preferences: Families planning to cook meals to save money will benefit greatly from off-property resort villas or apartments.
- Breaks and Midday Rests: Frequent midday park breaks are easier when you stay on property, due to the quick resort access and free transport.
Ultimately, travelers willing to sacrifice some convenience for more space, lower costs, and additional amenities will likely find staying off-property a smart choice. Those prioritizing seamless park access, immersive experiences, and exclusive perks may prefer the magic of staying inside the resort bubble.
User-Intent Summary:
- What happened? A comparison was made between staying on- vs. off-property for Orlando visitors.
- Why does it matter? Choosing the right accommodation can greatly affect cost, convenience, and overall vacation satisfaction.
- What’s next? Travelers should evaluate their priorities—space, park perks, budget—to determine the best lodging choice for their family trip.
