Orlando is renowned for its theme parks (looking at you, Disney and Universal), attracting countless travelers each year. And while accommodation options abound, Villatel Orlando Resort is among the most exciting new choices. Open since March 2025, this 80-acre property features two distinct lodging options (Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy and The Villas). The resort also features a 200,000-square-foot water park and a wealth of family-friendly activities designed for groups of all sizes.
What You Need to Know
The Look of Villatel Orlando Resort
With its lush landscaping and colorful accents, the exterior of Villatel Orlando Resort sets the tone for a fun yet upscale escape. The resort’s expansive Aqua Bay water park (more on that later) — serves as a hub for both relaxation and excitement, with areas for guests to unwind (be it floating down the lazy river or lounging in a private cabana). There are also thrilling activities (like zipping down water slides or playing a competitive game of pickleball).
However, it's the accommodations that truly stand out. Villatel Orlando Resort offers uber-spacious villas ranging in size from four to nine bedrooms, perfect for large groups. Guests can enjoy luxe amenities like private pools, spacious kitchens, and themed rooms, such as princess castles, wizard wonderlands, fairy woodlands, and arcade lofts, each complete with bright colors, artwork, and one-of-a-kind furnishings. Some larger villas have movie theaters and game rooms. — The resort is also home to the nation's first Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy Resort, which offers two- to three-bedroom options all with full kitchens and private balconies. Some apartments even have immersive themed bedrooms. The apartments, while smaller in scale, offer hotel-style convenience with apartment-style perks — including access to resort amenities and front desk service, all while providing the bonus of extra space, separate living areas, and kitchens for DIY meals. Unlike the buzzy, bold common areas, the room interiors have contemporary furnishings and a neutral color palette (think: lots of grays), offering a calming reprieve after a day well spent at the theme parks or on-site water park.
The property is also home to the poolside Aqua Bar & Grille, which serves classic American favorites (think: nachos, burgers, pizza) and refreshing drinks (sodas and ice-cold slushies, anyone?) in a breezy, laid-back setting.
The Vibe at Villatel Orlando Resort
With spectacular amenities, themed rooms, expansive sports courts, a water park, and sparkling swimming pools, Villatel Orlando Resort has a lively, fun atmosphere with a luxury twist. Guests and staff don't take themselves too seriously, creating a relaxed and playful environment. And although it's bustling with energy, its accommodations offer a peaceful, retreat-like vibe.
Best Amenity at Villatel Orlando Resort
You don't need to visit the nearby theme parks to have a good time. The resort's 200,000-square-foot Aqua Bay water park is a destination in and of itself, featuring a lazy river, kids' splash zone, and private cabanas. There are also sports courts for basketball and pickleball, along with a Topgolf Swing Suite for those seeking an interactive golf experience.
Money Matters
What's Included at Villatel Orlando Resort
Your stay includes access to the water park, sports courts, and fitness center. Reservation-required shuttle service to and from the theme parks (Disney and Universal), Wi-Fi, parking, and a dedicated concierge to assist with all your needs are also complimentary.
Extra Fees & Costs You Should Know About at Villatel Orlando Resort
The $50 daily resort fee includes all of the above. Cabana rentals, reserved poolside seating, use of the Topgolf Swing Suite, and all food and drink cost extra.
How to Get a Deal at Villatel Orlando Resort
The offers tab on the resort website is the best place to check for deals, seasonal packages, and promotions.
The Sweet Season
Like many top tourist destinations in the U.S., Orlando sees its high season stretch from late spring through summer, bringing both heavy crowds and intense heat. Early September is the best time for lower prices and deals, plus pleasant weather and a more relaxed experience. January through May is also a great time to visit, with mild temperatures, relatively lower humidity, and fewer tourists (especially outside of spring break weeks). During this time, you'll find shorter wait times at theme parks, better hotel availability, and a more relaxed pace.
However, Orlando's true sweet season falls between late October and mid-December (excluding Thanksgiving week). During this time, the weather is comfortably warm — think sunny days in the 70s and low 80s — crowds are noticeably lighter compared to spring break or the peak summer rush, and hotel rates become more moderate. While you won't find the rock-bottom deals of early September, this "sweet season" offers a welcome balance: shorter lines at theme parks, a slower pace, and the festive early rollout of holiday events throughout the city. It's an ideal time to soak up Orlando without the chaos.
Getting There
In the Neighborhood of Villatel Orlando Resort
Villatel Orlando Resort is just 2.5 miles from Universal Orlando Resort, about a 10-minute drive by car. Walt Disney World is approximately 18 miles away, taking 20 to 30 minutes to reach. Beyond the major theme parks, other nearby attractions include Fun Spot America, Ripley's Believe It or Not!, Madame Tussauds Orlando, Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf, Andretti Indoor Karting & Games, and Dezerland Park Orlando.
Nearest Airport to Villatel Orlando Resort
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is around 12 miles away (approximately 25 minutes by car).
Nearest Public Transportation to Villatel Orlando Resort
While public transportation is limited, the property offers round-trip shuttle service to and from Disney and Universal Studios, right down the road. Reservations are required and can be booked up to seven days in advance.
The Bottom Line
Villatel Orlando Resort combines the space and comfort of a private villa or apartment with the amenities of a luxury resort, just minutes from Orlando's top theme parks.



