Monumental Hotel Orlando

The Monumental Hotel was certainly once an impressively breezy, even elegant hotel in the midst of a strip of featureless Orlando budget lodgings. It's seen better days, though, yet it still has a good dose of personality. Inside, the entrance is classic, with white-trimmed doorways and a chandelier. There are several potted plants in the rooms surrounding the lobby, one of which has a pair of desks and is used as a computer station; the other serves as a breakfast area with tall wicker chairs and a TV. There is a bar area where coffee is served and where light breakfast items can be ordered. The hotel is surrounded by green space and lush foliage, and the vibe throughout is relaxed, particularly around the huge outdoor pool with cabanas, a separate cooling pool, and waterfall feature. Maintenance issues, like peeling paint and patchy lawns, are evident, and much of the wicker furniture in common spaces is topped by sagging, outdated cushions. Guests range from families visiting theme parks to golfers.

Situated in a quiet, lush area off of bustling, tourist-mad International Drive, there is a lot of green open space surrounding this hotel. There are a couple of other properties in the neighborhood, including a villa-style hotel and a condominium complex, but otherwise it's mostly wooded and undeveloped land. Vineland Outlet stores are about a four-minute drive from the hotel. SeaWorld is a five-minute drive and Walt Disney World is 10 minutes away by car. The Universal theme parks are a 15- to 20-minute drive and guests should plan on a 20-minute drive to Orlando International Airport. 

Each of the hotel's 94 rooms are bright and spacious with large windows letting in ample light. The look is dated -- furniture is high-quality light wood, but the pineapple carvings aren't the most modern. Sateen patterned bedspreads, faded green carpet, and heavy printed drapes could all use an update. Each room features framed tropical prints on the light yellow walls. All rooms include flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and coffeemakers, but Wi-Fi costs extra. Suites are large, featuring separate living areas with sofa beds, coffee tables, microwaves, and additional TVs. They also have small balconies with a pair of chairs that overlook the surrounding greenery. Bathrooms are a little dated, with yellow wallpaper and chips or cracks in the sinks. They all feature shower/tub combos and cosmetic mirrors.

The standout feature of this hotel is the free shuttle to and from Disney World. Otherwise, there are not many free amenities besides the wonderfully large outdoor pool with lion water fountains, cabanas, and a waterfall feature. There is a small fitness room with three pieces of dated cardio and weight equipment, and a business corner with computer. Wi-Fi access is not free and breakfast is not included in room rates. The on-site restaurant serves light American fare for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.