Luxurious escapes: Top resorts in Orlando, Florida
There’s much more to Orlando than world-class theme parks, with memorable scenery, picturesque tranquility, and a host of activities for families, solo travelers, and couples.
Paul Oswell | July 31, 2025
Paul Oswell
Paul Oswell is a British award-winning journalist and published travel author based in New Orleans, Louisiana. His books include Bucket List North America and The Great American Road Trip, as well as New Orleans' Historic Hotels. He has also been an editor of and contributor to several guidebooks/editions published by Dorling Kindersley (owned by Penguin), including New Orleans, Florida, Orlando, Los Angeles, California, and The United States. His work has appeared in Conde Nast Traveler, Travel & Leisure (both of which he has written multiple online travel guides for) and The Guardian, as well as dozens of international newspaper and magazine titles, and inflight magazines for major airlines.
Orlando is rightly famed for its incredible theme parks, state-of-the-art rollercoasters, and beloved cartoon characters. Step beyond the park gates, though, and you’ll find a region that has a lot more to offer, with natural beauty, serene green spaces, and amenities that promise quality time with your loved ones. These are the top resorts that help you make the most of your stay in Orlando.
Rest and relaxation
While there’s no shortage of high-octane pursuits in Orlando, it’s also a destination where you can find corners of unexpected calm. Rent a kayak and drift along the tranquil emerald waters of Wekiwa Springs or head to Harry P. Leu Gardens, where you can enjoy a picnic among 50 acres (20 hectares) of lush botanical plants and ancient oaks draped in Spanish moss. For a stay that's similarly stunning, Conrad Orlando is surrounded by 500 acres (202 hectares) of nature preserves, a serene setting that carries over to the beautiful water gardens at Conrad Spa. Spend days relaxing by the soft sand and sparkling waters of Evermore Bay, or hit the links at the scenic Grand Cypress Golf Club. Evenings are for romantic dinners at rooftop restaurant Ceiba, where you can enjoy innovative Mexican cuisine as fireworks light up the horizon.
Activities galore
Orlando has plenty of ways to make lasting memories beyond the roller coasters and theme parks. A private hot air balloon ride is one of the city’s most novel experiences, as you sail high above Central Florida’s striking panoramas. If this flight inspires an adventurous spirit, take a day trip to the Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral, where kids and adults can get up close to actual spacecraft and experience liftoff in a shuttle simulator. Evermore Orlando Resort complements the region’s activities with seasonal and year-round entertainment programs. Get competitive at the resort’s tennis, pickle ball, and bocce ball courts, or make a splash at the family pool’s four-person waterslide, jump platforms, and rope swings. From crafting to beach games to exotic animal encounters, the resort offers plenty to stimulate minds and keep both kids and adults of all ages engaged. With villas from two to eleven bedrooms, even the large groups will be comfortable.
Theme parks
There’s no denying that the theme parks are a main attraction for most Orlando visitors. Adrenaline seekers appreciate the latest thrill rides, while movie lovers immerse themselves in their favorite film lore, and younger kids grab a selfie with their most loved cartoon character. The secret to a memorable theme park experience is making each day as seamless as possible. At Signia by Hilton Orlando - An Official Walt Disney World® Hotel, guests can maximize their fun with daily 30-minute early entry to any Walt Disney World® theme park. The resort also has continuous shuttles to all four Walt Disney World® theme parks, so even transportation is stress free. When you're ready to call it a day, Waldorf Astoria Spa (which resort guests can access) and the resort’s delectable dining options, including gourmet Italian cuisine at La Luce, make winding down a breeze.
Find your stay
Read more:
Find travel inspiration