Heart of I-Drive Hotel

This three-floor property looks like a typical motor lodge with all rooms accessed via an outside corridor overlooking the small pool. The reception area is open, with a couple of tables and chairs along with a tour desk corner, but it could use a little more furniture. There is a surprisingly nice gift shop next to the reception desk that sells a large variety of Disney souvenirs along with everything from snacks to suitcases. The overall vibe is fine for guests who don't plan on spending much time hanging out on site or in their rooms, and many of those passing through are families traveling on a budget, though some guests are workers from nearby projects on longer-term stays.

The property sits directly on Orlando's International Drive and there are other hotels in the immediate area and lots of chain restaurants, including a Pizza Hut next door. International Drive is a heavily trafficked strip that can be noisy at night and throughout the day. Directly across the street is Magical Midway, a small fun park with a giant slingshot, go-carts, and arcades. Wet 'N Wild water park is just a two-minute drive or 10-minute walk from the hotel. There is a bus stop directly outside with regular buses running up and down International Drive to reach all of the other tourist-friendly businesses lining the road. Universal Studios and theme parks are a 10-minute drive away, while SeaWorld and Walt Disney World are about a 15-minute drive away. Orlando International Airport is a 25-minute drive from the hotel. 

Rooms have been given a bit of love and are a bit brighter and are a bit more modern than many other motels in the area, with red and orange accent walls and dark wood headboards, dressers, desks, and nightstands. Abstract art is framed on the walls and rose-pink coverlets add a pop of color to the beds. There are some budget holdovers, though, including navy blue industrial carpeting lining the floors and tube-style TVs. Coffeemakers, mini-fridges, and microwaves in each of the rooms are nice perks for families, and Wi-Fi is free as well. Basic white tile bathrooms include a shower/tub combo, basic toiletries, hairdryer, and a hanging rod. Traffic can be heard in certain rooms as the hotel sits between the interstate and a busy main road.

Apart from a free scheduled shuttle to and from Epcot Center and Universal Studios, this budget hotel offers free outdoor parking and free Wi-Fi access in rooms. A basic continental breakfast of cold cereal and toast is included in the room price, but expect to pay extra for waffles and sausages. The property features a small but clean outdoor pool and a well-stocked gift shop that sells snacks, drinks, and travel necessities as well as Disney souvenirs and suitcases. There's a coin-operated laundry room on-site and the front desk sells tickets to the theme parks at the front desk.