Overview
by Jackie Perrin
Conveniently situated directly across from SeaWorld Orlando and within splashing distance of Aquatica and Discovery Cove parks, Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld offers an approachable, sophisticated Orlando getaway, along with a sea of kid-friendly amenities and exclusive SeaWorld Orlando privileges.
Renovated in 2020, the property features a stunning atrium along with five dining venues and a full-service spa. An expansive resort-style pool complex stars R Aqua Zone, one of the newest and most entertaining water play areas in Orlando. In addition to periscope guns, a water windmill, and a gyroscope spinner, the interactive water playground offers multiple water slides, shooting water jets, a rain tree, and a dedicated area for ‘tweens and teens as well as for toddlers.
The property’s 781 guestrooms, including 65 suites, are situated in a 10-story tower. Lodging options range from standard oversized rooms with marble baths and nightly turndown service to a lavish Presidential Suite, complete with a wet bar, a garden tub and a view fit for royalty.
Besides water-based fun at the pool complex and treatments for kids and adults at their full service spa, families can enjoy a game room, an activities lawn and, during summer and holiday periods, planned events, from Dive-In movies, to Mermaid and Shark Academy, and many more poolside family crafts and activities.
As one of seven official SeaWorld Orlando Partner hotels, the property offers guests a number of exclusive privileges, which alone make an overnight stay worthwhile. Perks include priority entry to SeaWorld Orlando and Aquatica waterpark on select dates and 10% off Dining at SeaWorld, Aquatica & Discovery Cove plus 10% off merchandise purchases.
To learn more about Renaissance, please visit Renaissance.
Our Editor Loves
- Spacious rooms close to SeaWorld Orlando parks
- R Aqua Zone mini-waterpark
- Exclusive SeaWorld Orlando privileges
Family Interests
- Beach
- Bicycling
- Golf
- Hiking
- Museum/Cultural
- Sailing
- Theme Park
- Water Parks
Family Amenities
- Cribs
- Game Room
- Kids' Pool
- Kids' Theme Meals
- Kitchenettes
- Laundry
- Onsite Dining
- Pool
Room Information
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Renovated in 2012, 716 over-sized guestrooms are located in a ten-story tower. Rooms feature linens and furniture in neutral tones, with accent pieces and carpet in contrasting shades of blues and greens. In addition to a 49-inch flat-screen TV, amenities include luxurious bedding, a desk with a chair, a coffeemaker, and a mini-refrigerator. Choose from two queen beds or a king bed. King Rooms feature a sleeper sofa, and Queen Rooms include a comfortable sitting area with chairs and an ottoman. Marble bathrooms feature double vanities, luxurious rain-style showerheads and a range of Aveda products.
In 2011, the property's 65 suites received a makeover, adding modern decor to the already family-friendly configurations. Suite options (six total) range from spacious Corner King Suites featuring large windows and a connecting room option to a lavish Presidential Suite, offering a wet bar, a garden tub and a spacious balcony with a view fit for royalty.
With regard to location, upper floor rooms with an interior balcony offer scenic views of the stunning hotel atrium. Balcony door locks are situated well above a toddler's reach, providing peace of mind for parents. For an opportunity to view the nightly fireworks at SeaWorld, request a park-facing accommodation. Some SeaWorld-facing accommodations contain balconies.
Pack 'n Plays and bed rails are complimentary upon request. Rollaway beds and wireless Internet service are available for a daily fee. Connecting rooms are available.
Reviews
by jimiyank
For the record , after our stay I wrote a version of this. Prior to setting our reservation, I went to the hotel and met a manager.i explained that our upcoming anniversary was coming and we were thinking of coming back. The past 4years, we chose to go there for our anniversary. The prior management knew that and made it special. We've stayed at the better Disney and universal hotels for birthdays, special family events and the staff always made it special, or, magical. I'm a rewards member. I've had numerous friends and family stay at this hotel. we've also stayed for events like mardi gras at universal, Halloween horror nights, and food and wine from Disney. Obviously, we stay at this hotel frequently. My complaint is I was ignored by a manager. I sent 2-3 emails and called at least 3times. Great service. The positive was the young lady who checked us in when she heard it was our anniversary, put us in a balcony room, facing SeaWorld. the car valet guys great. Our baggage guy, great. our first breakfast, the server, not so great, but we went back Sunday knowing Ray, who has taken care of my family for almost 10 years was in. He's the best. Huge shout to Ray. Overall, a decent stay. Nothing special and you really hope a place like this, THAT has for years on a special event stepped up, will...They didn't. My thoughts, go to Disney. Tell them in advance of your special occasion ( it's called magical, lol) . Go to the Universal hotels. They have always made you feel special. You just need a room close to the parks, good restaurants, this will do. We will be going elsewhere on a special occasion. Lastly, a huge shout out to the spa manager ..he was able to work miracles for timing for my wife. This guy called me back 3times in a half hour to get my wife's reservation right. I stopped by to personally thank him. These guys make EVERY customer feel good. My wife loved her time there...You can stay at another hotel and use the spa. Rey them, you'll love it.
by villothe
A hotel and conference center, great amenities and close enough to major city attractions. Great restaurant choices in hotel premises. Friendly and helpful staff who also arranged passes to Disney parks. Was a pleasant stay!
The only downside was the sports bar service was a little slow !
Family Activities
R Aqua Zone
Opened in 2011, and adjacent to the main pool, this fun-filled mini water park includes an area for toddlers as well as one for 'tweens and teens. Colorful features include periscope guns and a gyroscope spinner. Water slides (three total) include two flume slides (88' and 122' - must be 42" tall to ride) designed specifically for older kids and a pint-sized slide just for little ones. Lounge chairs are plentiful and covered patio tables are available for dining. A sun sail shade covers a portion of the surrounding area. Hours are 9 a.m. to dusk.
Main Pool
Situated next to R Aqua Zone, the lushly landscaped resort-style pool complex features multiple hot tubs along with luxurious loungers, many in a private cabana setting. Pool depth ranges from 3' to 6'. Nearby, guests will find ping-pong tables, and on certain nights, dive-in movies are offered. Check the activities guide for a current schedule. Hours are 6 a.m. to midnight, weather permitting.
In both swim areas, lifeguards are on duty and swim diapers are required for non-potty-trained children. Along with limited baby and toddler supplies, diapers can be purchased in the gift shop. Towels are complimentary at a poolside kiosk.
Fire Pit
Next to the pool, a fire pit is the site for regular S'mores making. Check the activities schedule for details.
Summer and Holiday Activities
On holidays and during the summer months, (Memorial Day to early September) the property offers an expanded array of activities for children and families.
Family Dining
Boardwalk Sports Bar
This mainly adult-oriented venue offers a children's menu along with game broadcasts in a casual pub environment. Hours are 2:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. Monday to Friday and 2 p.m. to 1 a.m. Saturday and Sunday. Food service is available until 11 p.m.
Mist Sushi and Spirits
At this hip sushi bar, families can hang out and play chess while watching marine scenes projected on a giant media screen. A kids' menu is not offered, but there are several comfortable seating areas suitable for families with children. Hours are 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. Sushi is served from 5 to 10 p.m.
Palms Pool Bar & Grill
At this poolside grill, kids' meals come with a choice of fresh fruit cup or seasoned waffle fries. Kids Menu choices include a cheeseburger, chicken tenders, a grilled chicken breast (no bun), a grilled cheese sandwich and an organic turkey sandwich on wheat bread. If your kids shy away from sandwiches that are toast-y, ask for a plain or "lightly grilled" bun. Fresh fruit smoothies are also available. Covered seating is provided next to the bar, as well as in the water park area. A water cooling station is located at the end of the bar. Hours are 11:30.a.m. to dusk.
Starbucks
Get your caffeine fix, and enjoy smoothies and pastries at this lobby level coffee shop. An indoor seating area with free Wi-fi is available. Hours are 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Tradewinds Restaurant
Serving breakfast lunch and dinner, this popular spot for families offers creative twists on familiar fare, along with locally sourced and organic ingredients. Children's menu options range from pancakes, French toast or a scrambled egg with bacon and toast for breakfast to macaroni and cheese, a cheeseburger, chicken tenders, a grilled cheese sandwich or a grilled chicken breast for lunch and dinner. A breakfast buffet is also available. Regular hours are 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Closing time may fluctuate by season. During summer months, families can have breakfast with Shamu. At breakfast, kids' meals come with a fresh fruit cup. Lunch and dinner options include a choice of fruit, fries or veggies. The breakfast buffet is especially popular, and at peak times, there may be a wait. Arrive early for swift seating.
In-Room Dining
Treat the kids to milk and cookies (the chocolate chip cookies are especially delicious) for a bedtime snack, or get an early start on a day at the SeaWorld parks with favorites like mini waffles, French toast or assorted cereal. Lunch and dinner choices for kids include hamburger or cheeseburger sliders and a hot dog, along with the regular items available at other hotel dining venues, including macaroni and cheese, grilled cheese and chicken tenders. For adult appetites, a range of items, from "Organic Chicken and Dumpling Soup" to "Maine Lobster Truffled Mac & Cheese", is available. For a real treat, finish with a "Mini Dessert Sampler." The sweet preview includes house favorites like turtle cheesecake, key lime pie, carrot cake and chocolate hazelnut (banana mouse with chocolate ganache). In-room dining is available from 6 a.m. to midnight Monday to Thursday, and until 1 a.m. Friday to Sunday.
Planning & Tips
The Art of Smart Timing
The property is a popular convention destination, so occupancy may swell anytime there's a major business event onsite or at nearby Orange County Convention Center. Note that the property is a host hotel during January college bowl games. Times when you'll see lots of family companions include summer and school holidays. During these periods, the property expands its array of family-friendly activities.
All About the Extras
For families visiting Orlando, Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld offers a number of time and money-saving perks which add up to a terrific value. Guests are eligible for complimentary theme park transportation (SeaWorld Orlando and Universal Orlando parks), early entry to SeaWorld and Aquatica on specific peak days and the exclusive opportunity to book the SeaWorld Rescue Tour, a 20-minute behind-the-scenes tour available on early entry days.