If you have been wanting to visit Orlando, Florida, then you probably want to stay somewhere near Disney. This area is known as Lake Buena Vista. With a number of beautiful neighborhoods, shopping areas, and proximity to parks, this is one of the best areas for families to stay in Central Florida. There are also a lot of things to do in this area besides head to theme parks, although that's probably all your kids will want to do!

For bigger groups, it's important to look for hotels in Lake Buena Vista that provide accommodations with suites and better rates. Don’t forget about the cost of airport parking from your home airport either - for example, before flying out of Newark Liberty, the one thing to keep in mind a week worth of parking can become costly. Shop on comparison sites like parkingaccess.com, that offer long term Newark Airport parking rates from only $4.95 per day.

So, now you are ready to depart, in this piece, we break down all of the things to do and the best hotels to stay in the sections below.  

Choose the Best Family Hotel in Lake Buena Vista

There are dozens of hotels lining the roads in Lake Buena Vista. Some of these are closer to the theme parks and have packages for families visiting Disney or Universal. However, there are also a variety of lower cost hotels that are farther away but still within a short ride to the theme parks.  

Some of our favorite family hotels in this area include the Hyatt Place Orlando Lake Buena Vista, Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista, Magic Moment Resort, Waldorf Astoria Orlando, Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress, and the Marriott's Grande Vista

 Best Time to Visit Lake Buena Vista

You probably think the best time to go to Disney is in the summer. If you actually like the heat and humidity, then late May and early June are probably the best times to go if you enjoy hot weather. By end of July to early September, the weather is extremely hot, and it can take a toll on you to walk around roller coasters and theme park rides in over 98-degree weather.  

The best time to come for everyone else is probably when it's more temperate. These times include late April and early May or October through December. The most beautiful days for a visit to Orlando are in October and February when the weather is slightly balmy to cool.  

Fun Things Besides Theme Parks

You don't have to spend all of your money on theme parks to have a great time at the park. You can head to Disney, Universal, or SeaWorld, but there are plenty of things to do outside of that to make your trip more enjoyable.  

Here are a few suggestions:  

• Disney Springs: This is a great place to visit and shop without having to pay an entrance fee. You simply park and head out to walk around shops, restaurants, bowling alley, and the famous House of Blues. 

• CityWalk: There is a fee to get into CityWalk during the day, but it's free after 6:00 PM. This area is like Disney Springs and includes shops, restaurants, and live entertainment.  

• Boat Rides: There are several lakes around Central Florida that make for a perfectly fun and relaxing afternoon under blue skies. 

• Head to the Beach: Cocoa Beach is actually only 45 minutes from Orlando's airport. You can get there quickly via a beach shuttle. 

• Shop at Premium Outlets: For those who love the latest fashions, this is a great place to head out for an afternoon of designer shops and premium restaurants.