La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Orlando International Drive North

La Quinta Inn Orlando International Drive North is housed in a two-story building surrounded by a parking lot. It isn’t much to look at from the outside, but inside, the lobby provides an unexpected dose of whimsy. Bold wall murals are painted in cheery shades of red and yellow, and a colorful chevron pattern on the floor distracts from the room’s low hanging ceilings. The hotel pays homage to its surroundings with framed Disney movie posters and Mickey Mouse welcome mats. That said, most travelers are drawn to this property less for its looks than its rates, its location, and its solid lineup of features. Guests are a mix of families and couples, most of whom are in the area to visit nearby Universal Studios.

Like its name suggests, La Quinta Inn Orlando International Drive North is located on International Drive, a major thoroughfare that crisscrosses its way from northern Orlando (close to Universal) to southern Orlando (close to Disney World). Since International Drive is miles long, it passes through several neighborhoods -- some of those are upscale, such as the ones near the convention center; others are somewhat seedy, like the one around La Quinta. The property's neighborhood isn’t unsafe, it just has a lot of low-budget hotels, neon-sign bars, and a somewhat down-at-the-heels look. La Quinta is a five-minute drive from the Universal theme parks, about a 20- to 25-minute drive from Disney parks, and a 20-minute drive from Orlando International Airport.  

Those familiar with the La Quinta brand will find guest rooms here represent the standard look of the chain -- traditional, somewhat dated decor with a few basic amenities and simple bathrooms. They often smell strongly of disinfectant, but at least we can assume their clean. Popcorn ceilings and patterned carpeting give rooms a dark, basement-like feel. The look certainly isn’t improved by thick, dark-colored drapery, maroon dust ruffles, and gold accent walls. Furniture is traditional wood-veneer stuff -- not high-end, but still well kept. Long dressers hold flat-screen TVs and single-cup coffeemakers, and small consoles house mini-fridges and microwaves. Bathrooms have shower/tub combos, ample counter space, and Pantene toiletries. Along with standard rooms, the hotel has several suites and accessible rooms. For the latter, doorways are wider and furniture is lower in the accessible rooms, but it's worth noting that their the tubs and showers are not ADA-compliant. While they do have small shower benches, tub walls prevents them from being completely accessible. 

Features at this La Quinta are modest, but for a budget hotel, they more than meet expectations. The property has a decent outdoor pool that’s surrounded by a nice patio and lounge chairs. It doesn’t get much use, but the pool area is well maintained and provides a nice space for relaxation. A tiny fitness center is also on the premises, with a single treadmill, stationary bike, and stair-master. While the room is cramped and the equipment is kind of old, it's still considered a boon to have any gym at this price point. Next this, there’s a small business center with two communal computers and printers. Freebies are also fairly generous extending to breakfast, parking, and Wi-Fi. Breakfast is served buffet-style each morning in a colorful room adjacent to the lobby. The buffet consists of several continental options, like toast, yogurt, and fruit, as well as hot items like eggs and make-your-own waffles. Coin-operated laundry is also available. The hotel's on-site Orlando concierge can assist guests with park tickets, local restaurant reservations, and airport transportation.