Hilton Orlando: Affordable Luxury for Couples and Families

Recently, we had the opportunity to partner with Visit Orlando, (the Orlando Tourism Bureau and the only officially recognized sales and marketing organization for the Orlando and Orange County area) to experience some of Orlando firsthand on the #MOMVisitOrlando weekend.

We stayed at the beautiful Hilton Orlando, conveniently located right off of International Drive, on 6001 Destination Parkway (and within minutes of theme parks, attractions, and restaurants).

The Hilton Orlando offers 1,417 guest rooms and suites from standard queen & king rooms to suites with formal dining rooms and entertainment areas.  Deluxe sized guest rooms and suites are expansive enough for a couple or a family.  Accommodations are clean, well-lit, and spaciously comfortable.  The lobby is beautifully decorated and the front-desk staff, parking attendants, and concierge are very helpful and friendly – ask them about local entertainment because they are very informed and can recommend some great local establishments.

 

Hilton Orlando was recently recognized for its exceptional customer service by Hilton Hotels & Resorts with two awards: The Connie Award, which is the highest honor from Hilton, named after brand founder, Conrad Hilton, and the 2012 Guest Satisfaction Award. These awards follow other local and industry accolades further defining the hotel’s dedication to exceptional guest experiences. The Connie Award was presented to Hilton Orlando for its dedication to customer service. Hilton Orlando is currently the only hotel that has reached this recognition two years in a row. The Connie Award is presented to “the best of the best” within the Hilton brand. Winners are chosen based on service rankings as well as the year-end Quality Performance Balanced Scoreboard.

The 2012 Guest Satisfaction Award was presented to Hilton Orlando based on feedback from guests and customers regarding their experiences throughout 2011. “In just two years of operation, we have built a team of passionate employees who thrive on providing every guest with a unique experience, and these recognitions exemplify just that,” said Hilton Orlando General Manager Doug Gehret. “We are proud of the recent recognitions and look forward to continuing to represent our community and family brand well.” Beyond the Hilton brand recognition, Hilton Orlando is regarded as one of the top places to work in Central Florida by the Orlando Business Journal ranking second in its annual poll of top Orlando employers. The Hilton Orlando was the highest ranked hotel chain on the list. In addition, one of the brand’s restaurants, Spencer’s for Steaks and Chops, won the Critic’s Choice Award for favorite place to eat and drink within the 14 th Annual Foodie Award’s hotel category. Hilton Orlando is rated as a AAA Four Diamond hotel and was recently ranked number one among the 339 hotels on the TripAdvisor.com rankings of Orlando-area hotels.

During our stay at the Hilton Orlando , we were live tweeting and posting pictures, and we received inquiries about the hotel.  The following are answers to some of your questions:

• “What kind of amenities are available for families at the Hilton Orlando?”

Family-friendly amenities at the Hilton Orlando include two pools (complete with a lazy river, splash fountain, and slides); tennis, basketball, and volleyball courts; golf course; and private cabanas.  Private cabanas include refrigerators, TV with DVD player, ceiling fans, and wireless & wired internet.  Food service can be provided directly to your cabana (or poolside) from the family-friendly and tasty meals of the Tropics Pool Bar & Grill.

•  “Is Spencer’s restaurant more appropriate for adults since it’s more of a steakhouse?”

Spencer’s for Steaks and Chops has received rave reviews and awards since opening its door in 2010.  Everything about Spencer’s from the decor to the deliciously prepared steaks is really excellent quality and is in the same category as renowned steakhouses.  However, Spencer’s caters to all – the busy professional, the couple on a ‘date night’, and families.  The atmosphere is sophisticated but easy going – it is  high-caliber dining within a family-friendly environment.  When we ate Spencer’s on a Saturday night, there were business dinners/meetings being conducted, young couples eating together, and families with children – all having a great meal.  Spencer’s has an extensive candy selection for children (with parents’ permission) who finish their meals in addition to their dessert menu.  Spencer’s offers cut USDA prime beef dry aged 21 to 28 days, fresh local seafood, local organic produce, over 25 wines by the glass, and scratch-made cocktails.  Steaks range from $39.95 to $54.95 and is truly worth the price. Click HERE for reservations or call 407-313-8625.

• “I need a spa day! How is the spa at the Hilton Orlando?”

The Spa and Fitness Center is a relaxing and comfortable experience.  The full-service spa has 15 treatment rooms, including two couples suites and three facial rooms.  We experienced a couples massage – a total calming ambiance with professional masseuses really helped to ease muscular tension and stress.  The 15,000 square foot Spa has separate men’s and woman’s locker rooms and lounges; a eucalyptus steam room; rainfall body shower and a Paul Mitchell certified salon.  The 4000 square feet fitness center has free weights and adjustable benches; Precor equipment; and a quarter mile jogging track.  The spa is fully equipped for individuals to large group events.  Click HERE for more information or call 407-313-8600.

• “Are there any deals or discounts for FL residents?”

The Hilton Orlando does have discount packages for local residents looking to getaway for the weekend, packages that include admission to SeaWorld   Orlando, bed & breakfast packages, and romance packages,  (Military and AAA members get special rates as well).  Click HERE to learn more about discounted package deals.

• “What are some of the on-site dining options?”

In addition to the Tropics Bar & Grill, Spencer’s, and in-room dining, there are other dining options including David’s Club (a fun place for Dad to watch the game); The Marketplace and The Bistro (casual eating for families for breakfast and lunch with American or European cuisine).  We ate at both The Marketplace and The Bistro they are great options for on-the-go food before heading to the theme parks or sitting down to enjoy a quick meal.  Click HERE to learn more about all of the Hilton Orlando dining choices.

• “Are there any beaches nearby?”

The Hilton Orlando is literally minutes away from SeaWorld, Universal Orlando, and Walt Disney World theme parks.  Restaurants, shopping and entertainment are just moments down the street from the Hilton Orlando (with many of them being directly on International Drive).  In addition, Orlando International Airport is just 13 minutes away and Cocoa Beach can be reached in 45 minutes.

The Hilton Orlando offers a convenient location and affordability without sacrificing quality or exceptional service. Whether you are a tourist visiting Central Florida or a resident looking for a ‘staycation,’ the Hilton Orlando is a viable choice.

Visit the Hilton Orlando’s website at http://www.thehiltonorlando.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TheHiltonOrlando
Twitter: http://twitter.com/hilton_orlando