When I planned my trip to Orlando to visit Discovery Cove, I knew I wanted a hotel that was centrally located, clean, and comfortable—but not overcrowded or overpriced. That’s how I discovered The Florida Hotel & Conference Center, connected to the Florida Mall.
My friend and I got there late at night after a long travel day and appreciated how easy everything was. Check-in was a breeze, and even though it was close to closing time for the mall, we were still able to grab a quick bite from the food court.
RELATED POST: A GUIDE TO VISITING DISCOVERY COVE IN ORLANDO
First Impressions: Grand Yet Welcoming
One of the first things I noticed walking into the hotel was the ambiance. A gorgeous fountain greets you at the entrance, and inside, elegant chandeliers hang from the ceiling, adding a touch of class to the lobby without making it feel stuffy.
The staff at the front desk were incredibly welcoming. The manager even stopped by to check in with me, which made me feel valued.
Location That Can’t Be Beat
The hotel’s location is ideal. It’s only about 15 minutes from Orlando International Airport, and even better, it’s a short drive to all the major attractions:
- Discovery Cove: 20 minutes
- Universal Orlando Resort: 15 minutes
- Walt Disney World: 25 minutes
- SeaWorld: 20 minutes
- Downtown Orlando: 20 minutes
But the biggest bonus? It’s attached to the Florida Mall, so you have over 250 stores and restaurants at your fingertips. From Sephora and Zara to Apple and Macy’s, everything is right there.
Rooms That Make You Feel at Home
Despite being connected to a major mall, the hotel is surprisingly quiet. I slept like a baby the entire time I was there. My room was spacious, clean, and thoughtfully designed, with everything I needed—plush bedding, a Keurig coffee maker, mini-fridge, microwave, and even complimentary bottled water.
There’s plenty of storage space if you’re staying more than a night or two, and the full-length mirror came in handy when I was getting ready for a day at Discovery Cove.
RELATED POST: 22 AMAZING DAY TRIPS FROM MIAMI, FLORIDA
Dining Options: From Fast to Full-Service
In addition to the mall food court, which has plenty of options, the hotel itself offers several on-site choices:
- Marcelo’s Bistro for breakfast and lunch (breakfast is a buffet not included in your room rate)
- Cricket’s Bar for casual evening drinks and snacks, limited to guests only
- Starbucks for your daily caffeine fix
- Chick-fil-A, a solid option if you need something familiar and quick
Having these choices makes it easy to fuel up in the morning or wind down in the evening without the need to leave the property.
Amenities That Add Value
The Florida Hotel offers thoughtful extras that really elevate the experience:
- Outdoor pool and hot tub (perfect for a Florida evening dip)
- 24-hour fitness center
- On-site spa services
- Business center and meeting spaces
- Complimentary Wi-Fi (fast and reliable!)
And best of all? No resort fees. Parking is also reasonably priced and convenient. That alone can save you a good chunk compared to many Orlando hotels that nickel-and-dime you for everything.
Perfect for Families, Couples, and Business Travelers
What I love about The Florida Hotel is its versatility. It’s comfortable and affordable for solo travelers, friends, or couples, but it’s also kid-friendly and spacious enough for families. On top of that, the hotel is a go-to for conferences and business events, with more than 50,000 square feet of event space.
So whether you’re here for vacation or work, it has everything you need without the chaos of a theme park resort.
Final Thoughts: Why I’d Stay Again
The Florida Hotel & Conference Center exceeded all my expectations. From the friendly staff to the convenient amenities, it makes a convenient base for your Orlando trip.
It is quiet enough to rest, central enough to explore, and affordable enough to leave room in your budget for activities like Discovery Cove and shopping sprees.
If you’re planning a trip to Orlando and want a balance of comfort, location, and value, I genuinely recommend giving this hotel a try. I know I’ll be back.
Recap: Why You’ll Love The Florida Hotel
- Attached to the Florida Mall for unmatched convenience
- 15–25 mins from top attractions like Universal and Disney
- No resort fees and budget-friendly pricing
- Quiet, clean, and spacious rooms
- Dining options including Starbucks and Chick-fil-A on-site
- Exceptional customer service and beautiful common areas
Ready to book? Click here to find your room!
Have you stayed at The Florida Hotel? Let me know your experience in the comments below or reach out with questions if you’re planning a stay!
