Photo: Courtesy of Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa
While there's tons to do in Orlando outside of theme parks, let's be honest: theme parks are the city's bread and butter and what most people will travel there for. However, if you want to be near but not in the action, or you’re looking for a theme park-adjacent hotel that doesn’t charge theme park prices, look no further than Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa. The family-friendly resort is ideally located, but it also has so much to do on-property that you’ll want to skip a day at the theme park to make the most of it all. Read on for our full review of Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa.
The Look of Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa
Just off I-4, Orlando’s main thoroughfare, the Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa is a towering hotel with various room styles and amenities sure to please all types of travelers. However, guests might not spend much time in their rooms: The resort backs up to a serene lake that offers fishing and boat rentals and has a pirate-themed water park, seven pools and hot tubs, an 18-hole miniature golf course, sports courts, and four restaurants as well as poolside bars.
The hotel’s 2,162 villas range from 493-square-foot studios to sprawling 2,038-square-foot four-bedroom villas. Each room style has either a full kitchen or kitchenette, as well as comfortable seating areas and cozy beds.
The Vibe at Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa
The resort is designed with families in mind and makes staying here with the whole gang seamless. You’ll often see kids tugging on a parent’s arm to move faster to get to all of the fun in the morning, then parents carrying those same kids back to the room after a fun-filled day at the on-site water park or one of the many nearby theme parks.
Who Will Love Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa
Thanks to spacious villas boasting kitchens or kitchenettes, tons of on-site amenities, and proximity to many theme parks, large families with kids will especially love this resort.
Who Might Not Love Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa
Those looking to be closer to the action may want to find a hotel that’s even nearer to the theme parks, or even on-site.
Best Amenity at Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa
The best amenity is easily the on-site water park, Treasure Cove Water Park. While admission is not typically included with a reservation, you can find hotel deals that bundle water park tickets with your room in one price (and if you own a timeshare property your entry is complimentary). Otherwise, single-day admission for those three and older is $25 — much cheaper than the theme park-owned water parks.
What’s Included at Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa
Included with your stay at the Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa is the use of BBQ grills; access to sports courts, a game room, and a mini golf course; and bike, fishing pole, and paddle boat rentals.
Fees & Extra Costs You Should Know About at Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa
The standard taxes and fees should be expected here.
How to Get a Deal at Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa
Take a look at the hotel’s special tab on its website for the best deals and offers. Currently, the hotel is offering two free water park tickets when you stay two nights or more, and 10% off for Florida and Georgia residents and AAA members.
The Sweet Season
Orlando doesn’t really have a “low season” since there’s always something going on at the theme parks. The best way to find deals is to be flexible with your arrival dates and to travel while kids are in school. If you want cooler weather, January and February offer some respite from the hot Florida sun, but can still bring in crowds on Martin Luther King Jr. and Presidents Day weekends.
In The Neighborhood of Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa
The resort is ideally located in the theme park corridor of Orlando, meaning it’s just a short drive to Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando, or Walt Disney World. ICON Park is also a fun area to explore, with its exciting rides and unique museums, such as Madame Tussauds. A little further from the hotel, you’ll find the thriving Winter Park neighborhood, where local restaurants and shops line the main street.
Nearest Airport to Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is about 25 minutes from the hotel by car.
Nearest Public Transportation to Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa
Public transportation in Orlando isn’t great. You’ll be better off getting a rental car or calling for a ride share.
For kid-friendly accommodations with tons to do near the theme parks, Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa has your family covered.