Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Orlando Resort & Suites Intl Drive

The hotel is highly regarded for its prime location on International Drive, offering unparalleled access to major theme parks and a wide array of dining and shopping options. Many guests find it to be an excellent value for money, especially with the inclusion of free parking and complimentary breakfast, which sets it apart from many other hotels in the area. While some aspects of the hotel are noted as being dated, the friendly staff consistently receives praise for their helpfulness and attentiveness. This hotel is particularly well-suited for families and sightseers looking for a convenient and affordable base to explore Orlando's attractions, as well as budget-conscious travelers seeking good amenities without resort fees. To enhance your stay, it is advisable to request a room in the North Tower or a recently renovated section, and plan to arrive early for breakfast to ensure a smoother experience.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities, though guest experiences vary. Most guests appreciate the presence of a main pool with a hot tub, which is often heated and provides a pleasant area for relaxation. For those staying in club-level suites, access to a rooftop pool is a significant draw, offering great views. However, some guests report issues with Wi-Fi connectivity, describing it as slow or unreliable, which can be frustrating. There are recurring complaints about elevators being out of service or requiring frequent key card re-programming, causing inconvenience. While some suites feature a kitchenette, guests often note a lack of essential utensils, plates, or cookware, making them less functional. Other amenities like laundry facilities, ice machines, and vending machines are available, though the ice machines are occasionally out of order. Some common areas are noted for an overpowering deodorizer smell.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room cleanliness and comfort is mixed. Many guests find their rooms to be spacious and appreciate the comfortable beds and quality linens, contributing to a restful stay. Some rooms offer pleasant lake views or even distant park views. However, a significant number of reviews describe rooms as dated, worn, or in need of renovation, particularly in older sections of the hotel. Common issues include stained carpets, moldy smells (especially in rooms with water damage or poor ventilation), loose bathroom fixtures, and broken sofa beds. The air conditioning units are frequently mentioned as being noisy, and televisions are often described as small, old, or having poor reception. Housekeeping service is typically provided only every three days, which some guests find insufficient, leading to overflowing bins or a need to request fresh towels and toiletries. There are also isolated reports of bugs in rooms.

Dining & Food Quality
The complimentary breakfast is a consistent topic of discussion among guests. While many appreciate its inclusion for convenience and cost savings, feedback on its quality and variety is largely negative. The breakfast typically includes basic options such as pancakes, waffles, cereals, toast, bagels, yogurt, and a limited selection of fruit (apples, oranges, bananas), along with coffee and juice. However, guests frequently express disappointment over the limited variety, particularly the absence of meat or other protein options beyond hard-boiled eggs. The food quality is often described as bland, and the dining area can become crowded with long lines for popular items like pancakes, which are slow to prepare. The use of disposable plates and cutlery is a common complaint, and items often run out quickly without being replenished. The hotel's bar is noted for limited hours and selection, and some guests mention a club level offering free pizza and drinks at specific times.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location on International Drive is overwhelmingly praised as its strongest asset. Guests highlight its easy access to major attractions, including Universal Studios (often within walking distance or a very short drive), SeaWorld, and Aquatica. The proximity to a vast array of restaurants, shops, and gift shops allows guests to explore the area conveniently on foot or via the nearby I-Ride Trolley stop. The availability of free parking is a significant advantage, as many hotels in the area charge for this service, though parking can sometimes be challenging to find during peak hours, occasionally requiring use of an overflow lot. While a shuttle service to Disney and Universal is offered, guests often find its schedule to be limited and inconvenient, leading many to opt for ride-sharing services instead.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff generally receives positive remarks for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Many guests commend the front desk team for their quick check-in and check-out processes and their willingness to assist with various requests, such as room changes or providing extra amenities. Specific staff members are frequently singled out for their exceptional customer service, making guests feel welcome and valued. However, some reviews indicate instances of rude or unhelpful staff, particularly during busy periods at reception or in the breakfast area. Guests also report frustration with the frequent need for staff assistance due to persistent key card issues and slow responses to maintenance requests, which can detract from an otherwise positive service experience.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of certain operational aspects and policies. A security deposit of $250 (or $500 for Florida residents) is required upon check-in, which some guests find to be a significant amount and note that its return can take an extended period. The hotel has undergone or is currently undergoing construction works and renovations, which can sometimes lead to noise or impact the availability of certain facilities. There is a noticeable distinction between rooms in the older "South Tower" and the newer or renovated rooms/suites, with guests often expressing disappointment if assigned to the former. Incidents of power or water outages have been reported, sometimes without prior notification. The main lobby doors are often locked, requiring key card access for entry, which some guests find unwelcoming. Additionally, some rooms have been noted to have a persistent smoke smell.