The hype
Travelers are consistently shocked by how nice the pool area is for an airport hotel, often wishing they arrived earlier to use it.
Orlando Airport Marriott Lakeside
$150-250/ night
Book this if You want a resort-style pool and lake views just 2 miles from MCO, but don't mind paying for parking and breakfast.
Why People Love It
- Unexpectedly tropical 'resort' vibe with a large outdoor pool and lake
- Free 24-hour airport shuttle that actually runs frequently
- Soundproof windows that block most runway noise despite proximity
Quick Take: A surprisingly scenic airport hotel that feels like a vacation until you see the $24/night parking fee.
Reviewed by @Any_direct_flight: I stayed here during a layover and the lake view was a total surprise. It felt so peaceful compared to the busy terminal. The lobby is huge if you need to work, and the bed was super comfortable. Honestly, it’s the most relaxing airport stay I’ve had in Orlando.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'soundproof' windows block planes, but they don't block the guests talking loudly in the hallway at 2 AM.
- You have a long layover and want to sit by a pool with a cocktail
- You are a plane spotter (great views from the pool deck)
- You need a reliable, free shuttle at odd hours
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.8
- Housekeeping: Generally reliable daily service, though some reports of missed dusting in corners.
- Bathroom hygiene: Bathrooms are typically spotless, with good grout lines, though some tubs show age.
- Maintenance: Good overall, but occasional reports of broken ice machines or slow elevators.
- Linens & towels: Crisp, white Marriott standard linens. Towels are plentiful at the pool.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells of signature Marriott 'Attune' scent; some older rooms have a faint musty smell.
Sleepability™
6.5MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Hallway conversations and slamming doors
- Elevator mechanical noise in adjacent rooms
- Plumbing noise from neighboring bathrooms
Before you book
Good to know
- The airport shuttle runs 24/7; call the hotel (407-851-9000) upon landing for pickup.
- M Club lounge on the 9th floor is open Sun-Thu evenings and Mon-Fri mornings for elites.
- There is no resort fee, but the 'destination' cost is essentially baked into the parking.
What to pack
- Swimsuit (the indoor/outdoor connecting pool is the highlight)
- White noise machine or earplugs for hallway noise
- Fishing gear (you can catch-and-release bass and tilapia in the lake)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Lake View rooms (odd numbers often) for the best scenery and slightly less noise
- Top floor (9th) to avoid footsteps from above
- Corner rooms at the end of hallways for maximum quiet
Rooms to avoid
- Rooms near the elevators (constant dinging and foot traffic)
- Connecting rooms if you aren't using them (sound leaks through the door)
- First-floor rooms near the pool entrance (noisy during the day)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would appreciate a quiet room on a high floor (8th or 9th), ideally facing the lake and away from the elevators. Please avoid connecting rooms if possible.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the airport shuttle actually free?
Yes, it runs 24 hours a day. It's on demand or runs every ~30 minutes depending on the time of day.
Does the hotel have a resort fee?
No explicit resort fee is currently charged, but parking ($24+) and WiFi ($9.95, free for members) add up.
Is the pool heated?
Yes, both the indoor and outdoor pools are heated, making them usable year-round.
Can I walk to restaurants?
Technically yes, but it's a highway walk to chains like TGI Fridays, Denny's, and Cracker Barrel. Not a scenic stroll.
Is breakfast included?
No. The Crimson Cafe offers a buffet and a la carte options for a fee (approx $18-25).
How far is it from Disney/Universal?
It's about 20-25 minutes to Universal and 25-30 minutes to Disney, depending on I-4 traffic.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The lake has bass and tilapia—guests are allowed to fish (catch and release) from the shore.
- ✨
Ask for a 'balcony' room on the ground floor if you want direct access to the lake/pool area.
- ✨
The 'Crimson Tavern' is actually a decent gastropub with local craft beers, better than standard hotel fare.
5 things to know before you go
💡You can spot planes taking off and landing from the pool deck without the deafening noise.
💡There are hammocks and Adirondack chairs by the lake that feel miles away from an airport.
💡The indoor pool connects to the outdoor pool via a swim-under channel.
💡The gym is surprisingly large and overlooks the indoor pool.
💡It's a popular spot for flight crews, which usually indicates decent beds and safety.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Orlando Airport Marriott Lakeside is located and what's nearby.