The Berkley, Orlando

The resort is suited to families and groups, with lots of space throughout and nicely kept, if somewhat uninteresting, grounds and interior decor. Very high ceilings with blue inlaid panels, simple white columns, and an exposed second level with decorative rails give the lobby a grand feel. A large, brushed-brass chandelier hangs above a cozy seating area with casually elegant furniture, including rattan chairs, white fabric couches, and wooden end tables. The pub is less decorative, with beige patio-style furniture, and serves drinks and grill food beside and overlooking the large, horseshoe-shaped pool with stone deck. Guests can enjoy views of the nearby lake while relaxing on the beige lounge chairs in the pool area. A number of indoor amenities -- such as the movie theater, arcade, and fitness center -- help to keep guests entertained during inclement weather; all are decorated understatedly in shades of beige and brown, with patterned carpeting and rattan furnishings, and yellow and cream-colored walls. A separate room has two billiards tables and wooden stools with high-top tables. 

Lighthouse Key Resort and Spa is conveniently located for vacationing families in an area dotted with tourist-type gift shops, hotels, and restaurants. The property sits just south of Racoon Lake, so there's a peaceful feeling despite its close proximity to area freeways. The hotel is off Route 192, which connects to Florida Route 429, which heads straight to the Disney theme parks. Walt Disney World is just over five minutes away by car. The hotel offers a free shuttle to the Universal, Sea World, and Disney theme parks, and the Orange County Convention Center is within a 25-minute drive. Orlando International Airport is about 30 to 40 minutes away. 

Rooms are a big draw at the Lighthouse Key Resort and Spa. Two-, three-, and four-bedroom suites are available with pretty (if dated) Floridian decor including (cheap-looking) floral bedding, ceiling fans, and bamboo accents. Bedrooms have walk-in closets and flat-screen TVs, and all suites have private washer and dryer machines, and free Wi-Fi. The homey full kitchens are equipped with stainless steel appliances including microwaves, refrigerators, ovens, and dishwashers. Dinnerware and cookware are provided, as well as coffeemakers and blenders, but some guests suggest bringing additional pots. Suites all have living and dining areas, as well as patios, some of which overlook the lake and have views of fireworks at night. Bathrooms have shower/tub combos and bath products are included in all rooms; larger suites have big soaking tubs. Some guests complain of missed cleanings.

The hotel has a horseshoe-shaped pool offering views of the nearby lake. There are also a separate, un-heated lap pool and a whirlpool. On the second level overlooking the pool there's a pub with a small grill. For indoor entertainment there are a 52-seat theater with a projection screen, a small arcade with video games and air hockey, and a billiards room with two tables. There's a fitness center with a variety of modern machines, hand weights, and fitness balls. The spa has a whirlpool and offers massages and manicures, and there's an Internet corner with two computers and a printer. The hotel can arrange for grocery delivery from a local store. Wi-Fi is free throughout. The shuttle service to theme parks is also included.