Who says you have to stay a theme park hotel when vacationing in Orlando? Not us — not when there are options like the Sheraton Vistana Villages Resort Villas. The gorgeous, gated property features spacious villas for large groups, complete with fully equipped kitchens or kitchenettes, washers and dryers, free Wi-Fi and in many cases, balconies or patios. The hotel also offers swimming pools (some with kiddie features), onsite dining, a fitness center, spa services and shuttles to Disney World.

The resort’s location on I-Drive means you’re also close to area restaurants and all of the amusements — including the Orlando Eye — at I-Drive 360.

The resort's villas are divided into four sections: Bella, St. Augustine, Amelia, and Key West. All areas offer one- or two-bedroom villas; one-bedroom units sleep up to four, while two-room villas can accommodate eight. All units are equipped with kitchens or kitchenettes, washers and dryers and complimentary Wi-Fi. Most units have a patio or balcony and -- bonus -- most units overlook the pools or a body of water!

Cribs are available upon request and free of charge; the resort does not provide rollaway beds, as they aren't typically needed.

When deciding which area of the resort you'd like to stay in, here are some key differences to know:

Amelia
Amelia doesn't have a pool, though it's adjacent to a body of water. The closest pool is at St. Augustine.

St. Augustine
This is the best area for families to stay in, as it has the pool with the pirate ship and waterslide! It's also closest to the Pirates Cove Bar & Grill, as well as the Marketplace.

Bella
This section of the resort is closest to the lobby and surrounds a giant pool.

Key West
Key West is a nice option for families, as well, as it is located at the back of the resort and therefore quieter.

Pools
The resort has a total of four swimming pools, each one positioned by a section of villas (see Rooms & Rates for details). The pool at St. Augustine includes a kiddie area with a pirate ship, as well as a waterslide for children 42 inches and below; a lifeguard often watches over this area. The other pools offer fun waterfall features and plenty of comfy chairs on which to lounge.

Tennis
The resort offers two hard-surface tennis courts, open 24 hours and lit at night. Equipment is available to rent.

Pirates Cove Bar & Grill
Located at St. Augustine, Pirates Cove Bar & Grill serves light fare, snacks and drinks -- perfect poolside accompaniments! It's open noon to 6 p.m. daily.

Flagler Station Bar & Grill
This is the resort's full-service restaurant, serving standard favorites -- from omelets to burgers -- for breakfast, lunch and dinner. There's also a kids' menu. The Flagler Station Bar & Grill is open 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Both indoor seating and outdoor, covered seating are available.

The Villages Marketplace
Close to the pool at St. Augustine, The Villages Marketplace offers snacks, beer and wine, plus a full-service deli where you can order sandwiches to go (or cold cuts to make your own). It's open 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily.

Grocery Stocking
Resort staff will gladly pre-stock your villa kitchen prior to your arrival, for a fee.

All About the Extras
Check-In/Check-Out
Check-in time is 4 p.m.; check-out is 11 a.m.

Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi is complimentary to all guests of the resort.

Parking
Parking is complimentary to all guests of the resort, and in most cases, you can park right outside of your villa.

Grills
There are gas grills positioned throughout the property, available for use on a first-come, first-served basis. Host a picnic for the family -- just like at home!

Timeshare Property
Sheraton Vistana Villages is a timeshare property, and guests will briefly be educated about this upon check-in. Families are not required to attend any events regarding timeshare investments, however.

Resort Photographer
A complimentary 5X7 family photo taken by a professional photographer is available to guests of the resort. Guests, of course, are then encouraged to purchase a full photo package.

Kids' Night Out
The resort provides a nighttime children's program for kids age 5 to 12, who enjoy arts and crafts, movies, games and snacks. The program is offered at a rate of $30 per child, between 6:30 and 9:30 p.m. -- perfect for date night! Reservations are a good idea.

Ticket Desk
Families can purchase tickets to any of the area theme parks at the onsite ticket desk. The concierge is also available to make recommendations for activities, dining and more. It's open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.

Fitness Center
The resort actually has three fitness centers: one in Key West (open 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.) and the other two in Bella and St. Augustine (open 24 hours). Room key cards are required for access.

Business Center
The resort offers a spacious business center where guests can surf the web, print theme park tickets, or simply take a break from the sun in one of the cozy lounge chairs.

The Art of Smart Timing
Looking for the lowest rates possible? September is a good time to visit the resort. Plus, it's less crowded!

Getting There
The Sheraton Vistana Villages Resort Villas is located about a half-hour from Orlando International Airport (MCO).

Getting Around
The hotel provides shuttle services to Disney World; the cost is $10 for hotel guests and $9 for timeshare owners. It is recommended you make shuttle reservations at least 12 hours in advance.

For Mom and Dad
The hotel offers a small selection of spa services, including a Mother-to-Be Massage and a Couples Massage. Reservations are recommended.