Affordable Orlando

By Amy Shepherd Nance
Published: October 22, 2008
Last Updated On: March 10, 2011

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Water Parks

Theme Parks

Resorts

Orlando

Dining

Sightseeing

Get more from your Orlando vacation – and your hotel

Orlando is all about one-of-a-kind experiences. Perhaps you're a family of adrenaline junkies in search of the fastest and scariest ride at Universal® Orlando's Islands of Adventure. Or maybe dining alongside Cinderella in her Walt Disney World® castle is more your speed. Whether you're the type to swim with the dolphins at Sea World® Orlando's Discovery Cove or hit the outlet stores in search of bargains, you're sure to be in the middle of the action in Orlando.

Of course, there's always the option of simply kicking-back poolside at your resort and just enjoying the sunshine, too.

Choices, Choices

Living in Orlando, I have become the go-to gal for all my out-of-town family's vacation planning. Like clockwork, the questions roll in: "Where should we stay?" and "What should we do?"

Keeping everyone happily occupied is usually the No. 1 priority, but after a long day of visiting the theme parks, shopping and exploring Orlando, a comfortable, clean, safe and affordable place to rest becomes most important.

My latest discovery, The Fountains resort on International Drive, fits the bill. As a family with kids ranging in age from 2 to 12, we expect a lot – and the Fountains delivers. Here, you'll find all the things you'd expect from a world-class resort, plus some unique perks, all within a quick drive to Orlando's must-see's and do's.

Stay in Comfort

Each room at The Fountains has everything you need to feel like you're right at home. Let me correct that: It's better than home – I only wish I had granite countertops and a Jacuzzi tub. In fact, calling it a room is an understatement. With 1,200 square feet, it's more like a wing.

Doing laundry isn't my idea of a vacation, but I love the fact that every villa has its own washer and dryer. I didn't have to soak my toddler's chocolate-stained shirts in the bathroom sink before stuffing them into plastic bags for the return trip home. And imagine: no more wet bathing suits and towels strewn around the room.

Play Where You Stay

As the kids and I start exploring, we find plenty to entertain us: an arcade, several playgrounds, a kid's indoor playroom, two enormous pools, a sauna, a fitness room, a walking trail, volleyball and basketball areas, a lake with flamingo-shaped paddleboats and a great spot for fishing where you can even rent poles.

My mind is swirling with all the possibilities, when we stumble upon a sight that makes me forget everything else: Wakoola Springs – the 75,000-square-foot pool complex. Sure, every hotel in Orlando has a pool, but this one has cabanas to rent, poolside drink service and lots of water park features.

The Fountains has slides. Yes, those slides, the big, spiral, water park kind that will keep your kids busy for an entire afternoon, while you soak up the rays and catch up on your favorite novel.

Chow Time

Have a fresh muffin and latte at Mug O' Joes, a burger and fries poolside at Wakoola Grill or an adult drink at H20, which overlooks Lake Eve. Or if you're a culinary DIY, fire up an outdoor grill and create your own meals.

In the evening, the fire pit is the place to be, with a good old-fashioned sing-along, a bedtime story and s'mores.

My Kind of Deal

This is when you brace for the price. You start factoring in the water park and all the amenities, and expect the worst. But a two-bedroom villa at the Fountains can cost as little as $120 in the off-season, and package deals can include theme park tickets. One final hint: You can use their shuttle rather than a rental car to save even more.

To plan your own family getaway to Orlando and The Fountains resort, call 407-905-4100 or visit www.bluegreenonline.com.