Chic Savvy Mama

Family-friendly vacations: Where to stay, shop and golf in Orlando

SAMANTHA KEMP-JACKSON, Chic Savvy Mama

While Orlando is home to some of the world’s biggest theme parks, there’s more to Orlando than roller coasters. Whether it’s a day out with the kids or a night out just for mom and dad, you won’t be disappointed. Here’s where to stay, shop and golf.

Where to stay

Where we sleep on vacation can make or break the trip, plain and simple. That’s why it’s imperative to do your research and check into a hotel that will suit your family needs and budgetary requirements. Here are a few Orlando locales that will serve you well on your next stay:

Photo Credit: Nickelodeon Suites Hotel

Nickelodeon Suites Hotel
Be prepared for fun and adventure at this family-friendly hotel in the heart of Orlando. Based on Nickelodeon’s TV characters, the Nickelodeon Suites Hotel features Spongebob Squarepants, Dora the Explorer and other Nickelodeon favourites on the hotel room walls and throughout the building. Family-themed breakfasts feature live characters from your kids’ favourite TV shows, a huge water park and activities for families each day of the week.
14500 Continental Gateway, Orlando / 877-642-5111

Holiday Inn at Walt Disney World Resort
A mere 5.4 miles from Disney World, the Holiday Inn at Walt Disney World Resort just received a $35-million makeover, so rest assured you won’t be disappointed. With 323 rooms, games rooms for the kids, Disney-character breakfasts and preferred tee times for golfing parents, this hotel is one-stop shopping.
1805 Hotel Plaza Boulevard, Lake Buena Vista / 407-828-8888

Where to shop

Does the thought of shopping make you a little weak in the knees (and lighter in the wallet)? Orlando is a shopper’s paradise, from discount outlet malls to high-end boutiques and everything in between. Here are some options to get you started:

Orlando Premium Outlets
From Coach and Kenneth Cole to Victoria’s Secret, you’ll find what you’re looking for at Orlando Premium Outlets — with two locations for those on the hunt for high-end items at considerably discounted prices.
4951 International Drive / 8200 Vineland Ave., Orlando

The Florida Mall
From The Gap to Best Buy, Macy’s to Saks Fifth Avenue, The Florida Mall is one-stop-shopping — literally. This shopping destination is a regular stop on the travel itineraries of parents who want to get deals for both their children and themselves.
8001 South Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando

Photo Credit: Ritz-Carlton Golf Club

Where to golf

Heading to the links? Check out these Orlando locales for a day of golf and leisure.

The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club
Located close to Sea World and International Drive, the Ritz-Carlton Golf Club is a premier, upscale golf course that provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxing day teeing-off. This 18-hole Greg Norman Signature course is considered one of the best in the Orlando area.
4048 Central Florida Parkway, Orlando

The Orange Lake Resort
If you’re in the general vicinity of Disney World, why not head over to the links at Orange Lake Resort? Originally designed by Arnold Palmer, this course is now open to the public — and it’s only 5.7 miles from Disney World so you won’t have to travel far to get your game on.
8505 West Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway,  Kissimmee

Click here to read about dining in Orlando.
Click here to read about Orlando’s amusement parks.

Samantha Kemp-Jackson is a mother of four, with three under the age of eight, including identical twin toddlers. She blogs about her experiences of being a frazzled mom of many at Multiple Mayhem Mamma.

Date Added: April 18, 2012 | Comments (0)