DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Orlando - Disney Springs Area

Despite being within the boundaries of the sprawling Disney Resort, this hotel is a typical DoubleTree. That translates to a pleasantly modern property with a few family-friendly extras, though a lack of any Disney flair. Like most other Disney-area hotels, it can be busy here, but don't expect packs of screaming kids or rowdy groups, as most previous guests find that it stays calm and quiet. Perhaps that's in part due to the style, which leans more corporate than anything else. The two-story lobby has a tiled floor, granite front desk and concierge area, and brown color scheme. There is no seating in the reception area, so it's just a place for checking in and out. Particularly for leisure guests on Disney vacations, the property lacks excitement and the fun factor found at many hotels in the area. It attracts plenty of families, though couples and business guests also pass through, and it's a decent home base for travelers who don't need a ton of extra features during their stay.

This hotel is located within the Disney Resort area, just off Interstate 4. The area is loaded with chain hotels, and almost everything nearby is readymade for tourists. The main draw is the hotel's proximity to Disney Springs, which is a two-minute drive or 15-minute walk from the property. This is where restaurants like the House of Blues can be found, as well as all manner of Disney shopping, dining, and entertainment. In the other direction are more fast food outlets and outlet malls. While the hotel provides a free shuttle to all of the theme parks, trips can be long, and many guests choose to drive themselves, as the farthest -- Magic Kingdom -- is only 15 minutes away by car. Expect a 15-minute drive to the International Drive area, and a 20-minute drive to Orlando International Airport.

The hotel offers one- and two-bedroom suites with kitchenettes, all of which include pull-out couches that make them ideal for families. Decor is modern and attractive, although undeniably chain-like, with earth-tone color schemes, patterned carpeting and drapes, light wood furniture, and contemporary art on beige walls accented. Kitchenettes are equipped with granite countertops, microwaves, sinks, coffeemakers, and mini-fridges. Both the living areas and bedrooms have flat-screen TVs. Wi-Fi is available, but isn't free. Bedrooms are separated by a sliding glass doors. Bathrooms also have granite countertops, as well as tiled shower/tub combos, plus a good amount of counter space, hairdryers, and toiletries. The largest suites have two bedrooms and two bathrooms -- these can accommodate up to eight people. Some have patios, and some have views of the pool. 

While the hotel doesn't have all of the bells and whistles of some of the more posh Disney-branded resorts, there's enough here to keep most guests happy between trips to the parks. The on-site Evergreen Cafe serves American fare for all meals, including a daily breakfast buffet. It also has pool and lobby bars. Room service is available, but keep in mind that many guests have noted that all meals are pricey (par for the course within the Disney compound). The free-form outdoor pool is surrounded by palm trees and tropical greenery. Lounge chairs and umbrellas line the wide deck, and fountains spray water into the pool. A whirlpool and separate splash area with fountains for the kids are adjacent. The fitness center is tiny for a hotel of this size, and has cardio equipment plus free weights and exercise balls. Multiple windows let in natural light, and there are wall-mounted flat-screen TVs for entertainment, though it's only sufficient for a basic workout. There also are two tennis courts on-site and an adjacent playground for the little ones.  A gift shop sells Disney merchandise, and the Market Place sells drinks, snacks, and travel essentials. Keep in mind that there are fees attached to most things here, despite the lack of a daily resort fee. Wi-Fi and parking both incur charges, for instance. While the hotel's shuttle is free, trips to the parks can be lengthy and they aren't always on time. Additionally, the hotel doesn't offer Disney-branded perks like Magic Bands. A business center provides computers for guests to use in cubicles, ensuring privacy. Events spaces can accommodate groups of various sizes, but meeting rooms do not have windows. The ballroom can hold up to 120 people for business or social events.