Crowne Plaza Orlando - Universal Blvd

With numerous meeting rooms and a location near the Orlando Convention Center, the Crowne Plaza attracts more business travelers than other hotels in the area. Nonetheless, its proximity to Universal Orlando and Epcot also make it a favorite with families, and amenities such as the free shuttles to local attractions, the game room, and the pool are geared toward guests with children in tow.Though this 400-room property is popular, it does not usually seem overly crowded, due in part to a separate entrance for the meeting rooms. The lobby - which features two aquariums - rarely gets too hectic since it is quite large, and a soaring atrium adds to the sense of spaciousness. Bright splashes of color and pretty plants throughout the public spaces keep this towering, modern hotel from feeling impersonal.

The Crowne Plaza sits just off of International Drive, the main road that leads to Universal Orlando, Disney World, the Orlando Convention Center, and other frequented spots that draw visitors to this city. The hotel's only slightly removed location means it’s quieter than some of the properties that are right on International Drive, but it is still close enough to the action to make it a solid choice for those visiting Orlando’s many attractions. Most guests will want a car, though, since the Crowne Plaza is not within walking distance of the city's main tourist spots. Free hotel shuttles to Epcot and Universal Orlando are available. And from Universal Orlando, guests can take free shuttles to Sea World, Aquatica, and Wet 'n Wild.

Rooms at the Crowne Plaza are nicer than those at many competitors; even standard rooms are spacious, and feature modern touches such as pillow-top mattresses, large work desks, and comfy reading chairs in subdued shades of beige and pastel green. All rooms also have coffeemakers, iPod docks, and flat-screen TVs with video games. Closets equipped with ironing boards, irons and laptop-sized safes are a plus, as are the roomy bathroom countertops that offer plenty of space. The fee for in-room Internet, however, is a bit surprising -- and annoying. Those guests who want free access to the hotel's Wi-Fi will have to step out into the property's public spaces to connect.Executive Level rooms come with the added amenities of a free continental breakfast, as well as free receptions with beer and snacks on select evenings in the Executive Level Lounge. Wi-Fi in the lounge is also free.

Given its location, it's no surprise that the Crowne Plaza caters to families. Besides the requisite Disney paraphernalia-filled gift shop and a small game room, the hotel also has a lovely outdoor pool, complete with a nearby whirlpool and ping pong table, and free shuttles that transport guests to Epcot and Universal Orlando. From Universal Orlando, guests can catch free shuttles to other attractions such as Sea World, Aquatica, and Wet 'n Wild.Though there is an obvious focus on families, business travelers are also made to feel welcome at this hotel. In fact, the Crowne Plaza's business-friendly amenities really separate the upper-middle-range property from its competitors in Orlando. Not only does it offer spacious meeting spaces (which are accessed via a separate entrance), but it is also features a large business center with several new computers. The fitness center is also up-to-date with modern cardio machines, free weights, and weight-training machines that face out toward the pool.For dining, the hotel has one restaurant, one casual bar and grill, and a pool bar which serves light snacks as well as cocktails, wine, and beer. Children under 10 eat at the breakfast buffet for free when with a paying adult, and those staying in Executive Level rooms also get free breakfast. Room service is available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner as well.All public spaces – including the lobby and business center – offer free Wi-Fi, but there is a pesky fee for in-room Wi-Fi. Parking is also available for an additional fee.