Disney Hotels

Given DisneyWorld’s sprawling size, it should come as no surprise that there are several hotels within its perimeter. Each one has a different theme, and all are family friendly. If you’re planning to spend a lot of time at DisneyWorld, they are good bets. Keep in mind that the hotels vary greatly in price: Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, which has its own Mouseketeer Clubhouse, starts at $339 for a double; Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort can cost less than $100 for a double, but it has few amenities.

Details: 800-828-0228 or http://www.disneyworld.com/.

Doubletree at the Entrance to Universal Orlando

There are several Doubletree hotels around Orlando, but this one has Universal Studios on its doorstep. Always a favorite with families, the Doubletree “rooms” are really suites, complete with fridges and microwaves. Free transportation is provided to SeaWorld and to Wet’n Wild.

Details: 800-222-8733 or http://www.doubletreeorlando.com/. 5780 Major Boulevard. Doubles start at $119.

Nickelodeon Family Suites

This is really a Holiday Inn, but the name alone should cue you in on how child-friendly this place is. Located about a mile away from DisneyWorld, it’s all about the kiddies here, from the check-in desk (the kids have their own), to the recreation center, to the cartoon-themed bedrooms. All of the rooms are suites with kitchenettes – not that eating here is a problem, since kids under 12 dine in the on-site restaurant for free.

Details: 866-462-6425 or http://www.nickhotel.com/. 14500 Continental Gateway. Doubles start at $150.

The Peabody Hotel

Centrally located (it’s roughly between DisneyWorld and SeaWorld), this hotel offers a unique experience for children: every day at 11am a group of ducks marches from the elevator to the fountain, led by a uniformed Duck Master and accompanied by Sousa’s King Cotton March. Other features of the property include a kids’ pool with its own waterfall. (A note to parents: you don’t need to be a guest here to see the duck parade – visitors are welcome.)

Details: 800-732-2639 or http://www.peabodyorlando.com/. 9801 International Drive. Doubles start at $380.