Considered an off-site hotel but close to the magic is the Waldorf Astoria Orlando, a Virtuoso property. Luxury at an affordable price is what makes this property the best of both worlds. This is the first new-build for Waldorf-Astoria and it’s located on 500 acres in a nature preserve with views of both Epcot and Hollywood Studios.
With over 500 guest rooms and suites with multiple categories there’s a room for every traveler’s need. Rooms are good size starting at 425 square feet with a separate tub and shower even in the standard rooms which have a choice of a king bed with a sleeper sofa or two queen beds.
My favorite room type is the deluxe suite at over 900 square feet. The bedroom has a king bed and a balcony and a queen sleeper sofa in the living area. You can get a room with two queen beds but you give up the balcony.
Getting to the magic is easy with dedicated bus service heading to the parks every 30 minutes. Schedules are available online and in paper form. If you have a Hilton Honors number, you can redeem points for Minnie Van rides directly to the parks via the Lyft app.
If you’re planning a resort day, guests can utilize the 24,000 square foot spa, kid clubs, or the outdoor pool area. A Hilton is next door with a 3 acre lazy river area that is open to Waldorf-Astoria guests. I highly recommend renting a cabana for the day at one of the two Waldorf-Astoria pools. With 12 restaurants and lounges you have plenty of options for food and beverage.
Here are some of the Disney benefits for guests staying at the Waldorf-Astoria Orlando.
• Official Disney hotel
• Fast Pass + 60 days in advance
• Extra Magic Hours
Booking with McAlpin Travel will give you the following amenities that you can’t get booking direct with the resort.
Virtuoso Amenities:
For 2020:
• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
• Continental breakfast daily for two guests per bedroom (full buffet)
• $100 USD Resort/Hotel credit to be utilized during stay, applicable towards Golf, Spa or Recreation (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full )
• Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
• Complimentary Wi-Fi