Loew's Portofino
The Portofino is basically next door to the Universal Studios theme park and the CityWalk area, featuring a wide range of bars, restaurants and shops. Guests at Portofino's and the Hard Rock Hotel (see below) get passes that take you to the front of the line at the parks too.
Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando
5601 Universal Blvd.
Orlando, Florida 32819
(407) 503-1000
www.loewshotels.com/en/Hotels/Portofino-Bay-Hotel/Overview.aspx
Loew's Hard Rock Hotel
The Hard Rock Hotel in Orlando is one of those rare places that's cool for parents, their kids and anyone else who enjoys a party atmosphere in a relatively upscale setting. Rock music is heard in the lobby, the elevators, by the pool, everywhere. There's rock memorabilia such as Eric Clapton's guitar, an Elvis Las Vegas-era jumpsuit and costumes worn by members of 'NSync and Madonna.
Hard Rock Hotel Orlando
5800 Universal Blvd.
Orlando, FL 32819
(888) 832-7155
www.hardrockhotelorlando.com
The Ritz-Carlton, Grande Lakes
Everything at the Ritz-Carlton is first-class, including the golf course that sits right behind the resort. The Greg Norman-designed course will challenge experienced and beginning golfers alike, but the fairways are generous enough to keep your ball in play most of the time.
Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes
4012 Central Florida Parkway
Orlando, FL 32837
407-206-2400
www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/Orlando
Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate
Away from the crowds and craziness of the theme parks but still close enough to be convenient, ChampionsGate offers four-star service and accommodations along with two stunning golf courses. (The National course is a little more forgiving than the tricky International course.) There's also a lighted Par 3 course for some short-game practice or to take the kids out for a little casual golfing fun right behind the resort.
Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate
1500 Masters Blvd
ChampionsGate, Florida 33896
(407) 390-6664
www.omnihotels.com/FindAHotel/OrlandoChampionsGate.aspx
About The Author
James Roland is the editor of a monthly health publication that has approximately 75,000 subscribers in the United States and Canada. Previously, he worked as a newspaper reporter and editor, covering issues ranging from the environment and government to family matters and education. He earned a bachelor's degree in journalism from the University of Oregon.
