There are several five-star hotels in the city of Orlando, Florida. However, the closer to Walt Disney World, the less five-star accommodations there are. Travelers who want to be next to Disney during their stay will have to choose from just a couple of hotels with a five-star rating. It is important to remember that star values are not rated with one universal system, according to USA Today. Star values are calculated by comparing reviews and information from various industry sources and can fluctuate between booking agents.
The Waldorf Astoria Orlando is Disney's premier hotel and ultimate five-star destination for travelers. The hotel is surrounded by Walt Disney World Resort and is walking distance from the attractions of Disney. The hotel features a full-service spa, golf course, two outdoor swimming pools and business centers. The 14-floor, 498-guestroom property is host to 13 restaurants and a bar/lounge area with a poolside bar. The Waldorf Astoria Orlando also has a first-class health center. Guests can enjoy free shuttle bus service to area attractions. Rooms are standard queen and king with an optional Disney view room. Deluxe suites are also available.
Disney's Grand Floridian Resort and Spa is a stylish Victorian-era hotel within walking distance of Walt Disney World. Scenery is this hotel's specialty with lavish gardening around the exterior and Victorian-era accents throughout the property. This hotel offers water taxi transportation to the Magic Kingdom, which offers scenic views of Disney. Families can enjoy breakfast with Cinderella and other famous Disney characters. Nine elegant restaurants with different cuisines are located inside the hotel and lend to the Victorian-era theme of the hotel. Disney's Grand Floridian Resort and Spa was included in the Condé Nast Traveler Gold List of the world's best places to stay in 2007. Amenities include a full service spa, hair salon, health club and an outdoor swimming pool.
Travelers who are willing to venture outside of Disney for five-star accommodations are left with more options. The Ritz-Carlton Orlando is located ten miles from Walt Disney World and two miles from SeaWorld. Another option is the music themed Hard Rock Hotel at Universal, the Universal Royal Pacific or the Loews Portofino Hotel, all located in Orlando near Universal Studios and have a five-star rating by Hotels.com.