In the heart of Lake Buena Vista lies Walt Disney World. This area is home to the world-famous Disney parks as well as a wide range of accommodations! From luxury resorts to affordable hotels just off Disney property.
Many people think that Disney's theme parks are in Orlando, but officially they are located just outside it, in Lake Buena Vista. The town is closely associated with the arrival of Disney. Once the area consisted mostly of swamps, but starting in the 1960s, the landscape changed dramatically when Walt Disney wanted to create his new resort here. Lake Buena Vista has since grown into a full-fledged destination with hotels, restaurants, shopping centers and a clear focus on tourism.
From here you can drive to Universal Orlando Resort in about twenty minutes, while nearby you can store at Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores, among others, or relax at one of the many swimming pools. Thanks to its central location, you can quickly and easily reach all the major attractions in the region.
Sightseeing & activities
Although Lake Buena Vista is primarily known as the home of Walt Disney World Resort, you'll also find a number of opportunities in the immediate area for shopping, relaxing and fun trips. Think outlet stores, golf courses, recreational activities and fun entertainment areas.
The Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores
Shopaholics can indulge at the Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores. Located just minutes from the Disney parks, this open-air mall is known for its wide selection of brand-name stores with attractive discounts. You'll find not only well-known international brands here, but also some more unique, smaller stores you don't easily see in other outlet centers.
Golfing in Lake Buena Vista
For those who like to be active, Lake Buena Vista is home to several golf courses, including Disney's Lake Buena Vista Golf Course. This 18-hole course is beautifully landscaped and suitable for both novice and experienced golfers.
Relaxing and dining
In Lake Buena Vista, you have plenty of choices for fine dining and relaxation. Around Disney Springs you will find many fine restaurants ranging from casual to elaborate dining. Well-known options include The Boathouse for fresh fish and steak, Homecomin’ for comfort food from the southern U.S. and T-Rex Café, an experience for families with young children.
In addition, in the immediate vicinity are several cafes and chains where you can eat quickly and easily. Thus, there is a nice place for every taste and budget. Many hotels also have their own facilities such as swimming pools, lounge areas and bars, so you can also relax close to your accommodation.
More sights
- Enjoy a boat ride on one of the surrounding lakes
- Take a leisurely stroll through the green surroundings around the hotels
- Visit local fun and miniature golf courses
- Go for an afternoon of bowling at Splitsville Luxury Lanes in Disney Springs
Disney Springs
Located in Lake Buena Vista is Disney Springs, a vibrant entertainment area full of stores, restaurants and live performances. You'll find a fine combination of international brands, Disney stores and cozy restaurants, complemented by unique boutiques you won't easily see anywhere else.
In addition, you can dine extensively, from quick bites to high-end restaurants. At night, Disney Springs really comes alive with street performances, atmospheric bars and cozy terraces. You don't need a park ticket, so you can enter for free. This makes it an accessible and versatile place for a relaxing night out after a day at the theme parks.
Theme parks nearby
Those staying at Lake Buena Vista are closer to the magic than anywhere else in Florida. The four theme parks of Walt Disney World Resort: Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney's Hollywood Studios and Disney's Animal Kingdom are in fact a short distance away. Also, Disney's two water parks, Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach, are in the immediate vicinity. From most hotels, a short drive, by rental car, Uber or included shuttle service, will get you right to the entrances of the Disney parks.
Want to know more about Walt Disney World's parks? Then read our blog about Walt Disney World's 4 theme parks!
Also Universal Orlando Resort is surprisingly close. In just twenty minutes you can drive to the world of movies and attractions, with highlights such as The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Jurassic Park and the new park Epic Universe.
In addition to Disney and Universal, SeaWorld Orlando and Aquatica easily accessible from Lake Buena Vista. Its central location makes this area an ideal base for families who want to visit multiple parks without having to keep moving.
Florivida is happy to help you put together a trip that suits your preferences including tickets, transportation and hotel stays.
Hotels in Lake Buena Vista
Around Disney Springs you will find many comfortable hotels that are ideal for a stay in Lake Buena Vista. The central location puts you close to the parks, stores and restaurants, while enjoying spacious rooms and good amenities.
Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista – Located right near Disney Springs, with comfortable rooms equipped with refrigerator, coffee maker and bathroom with shower and/or tub, plus extras like outdoor pool, gym, sports courts, arcade and shuttle service to the Disney parks.
Marriot Village Orlando - Courtyard Orlando - Practical and modern hotel with standard rooms and suites (some with kitchenettes), an outdoor pool, bar, restaurant, playground, laundry room and shuttle service to the Disney parks.
Marriot Village Orlando - Fairfield Inn & Suites Orlando - Spacious rooms and suites with desk and sitting area, complemented by an outdoor pool, bar, restaurant, playground, laundry room and shuttle service to the Disney parks.
Marriot Village Orlando - SpringHill Suites Orlando - Studios and rooms with additional sitting area and kitchenette, plus an outdoor pool, bar, restaurant, playground, laundry room and shuttle service to the Disney parks.
Rosen Inn Lake Buena Vista – Affordable hotel with comfortable rooms with refrigerator, microwave and coffee maker, and amenities including two outdoor pools, restaurant, bar, playground, laundry room, free parking and shuttle service to theme parks.
Not sure yet which hotel best suits your travel plans? Florivida is happy to help you find a place to stay that fits your needs and budget. Feel free to contact with us for all possibilities!
Plan your trip with Florivida
With our expertise and personalized service, we'll help you plan your trip to Lake Buena Vista to perfection. Our travel experts will help you find the right accommodations, book park tickets and arrange transportation. That way, all you have to do is enjoy the magic of Disney and the relaxed atmosphere of Lake Buena Vista.
View our trips to Lake Buena Vista or engage with one of our travel experts To put together your dream trip together!