Located in the heart of International Drive's fun and frolic, less than one mile from the convention center, and a short walk to Wonderworks, this is perhaps the best hotel for families and couples who want to keep the magic lamp burning, even as they return each day from the fun parks. And the central location, amid the hubbub of International Drive, bolsters the good-times atmosphere of the place.
This imaginative nine-story hotel resembles a storybook citadel. Sneering gargoyles protrude from its silly medieval facade, but its interior is, for youngsters, at least, truly enchanting, and its designers employed a palette of colors that aspiring queens and wizards will love.
Although it may go over the top with kitschy decor, appointments are of high quality, with an appeal that extends beyond the Disney-esque facade. Humor and style are evident from the moment one steps through the massive brass-hinged door into the reception area, where fanciful fountains and chairs, intricate mosaics, and full-costumed mannequins are a feast for the eyes.
At the marble reception desk, the upbeat staffers seem to enjoy their jobs, and the well-regarded chophouse, bar and lounge are good enough for King Arthur. The Queen's Breakfast is served in the cafe or alfresco in a courtyard beside sculpture, fountains and a circular pool. The tiny gym is better-suited to the seven dwarfs (two at a time) than to serious athletes, but the pool is fair-sized. The rooftop garden offers city views. Rounding out the offerings are a children's program, 10,000 sq ft of meeting space, and a gift shop selling everything from Beanie Babies to Hummels.
The hotel implemented a daily resort fee a couple of years ago, but it raised such a stink with guests that the management decided to cancel it. Despite the lost revenue, management has opted to continue its free parking policy, and use of in-room safes and coffeemakers is also free.
Guest rooms continue the days-of-yore theme with shiny fabrics in jewel tones. Modern appurtenances include desks, three phones, 25-inch TVs, refrigerators, safes, coffeemakers, and newly attired queen and king beds or single king models. The new mattresses keep most ogres at bay.
The excellent baths have stone-tile floors, tiled vanities, magnifying mirrors, phones, hair dryers, and irons and ironing boards. Popular Tower rooms in the turrets have spacious sitting areas. At inspection in early 2008, management had just begun installing the first of Doubletree's new pillow-top mattresses, and new carpeting and drapes should now be in place. Smoke-free and wheelchair-accessible rooms are in the mix.
Room service stops at 11 pm. Pets are banned from this magic kingdom.
With so many children and harried parents about, guests may wish for a moat around the castle, but those who get into the spirit will enjoy extras not found in pricier hotels. Adults yearning for an escape and sincere royal treatment in an updated setting away from Mickey and The Hulk will prefer the Westin Grand Bohemian, Orlando's sleeper, an authentic urban beauty.
