Taking the kids (9) and (15) to Orlando to visit Disney World, Epcot etc. Any Hotel and restaurant recommendations close to the park without going to a Disney Property. Needs to have a resort like feel like big pool fun for the kids but again not a Disney property

Thanks again.

 

Why not a Disney property? They have all of the best places down there, and are most convenient to accessing the park.

 

too much Disney. Like to be a little seperated from everything Disney. We will be there for 8 days and plan on doing Epcot, Universial, Disney World over the span of ~ 4-5 days then going the Cape Canverial and then spend a few nights at Tiger's house since it's vacant at the time being

 

Disney's resorts are pretty diverse. There are some that have that Disney feel, and others that do not. There are also quite a few newer ones that sit on the outskirts of the various Disney World parks. You should seriously reconsider, as frankly the best hotels down there by far are the Disney ones, and they are often much more convienent to accessing the park.
Universal isn't quite what it use to be. Compared to Disney it is pretty dirty, and somewhat run down. I went to Universal shortly after it orignally opened, and was last there a little over a year ago. Its upkeep and overall mood has declined quite a bit over the years.
Cape Canveriall is a fun and interesting trip.
As far as restaraunts, I very highly recommend the California Grill which is located on the top floor of the the Contemporary hotel which overlooks the Magic Kingdom. Make your reservations before you get down there, as it is often hard to get into.

 

With Josh on this... cannot beat the Disney resorts
Plus you get to enter the parks ealrier and stay later
And it is economical if you get a package deal

At Universal check out Portofino Bay Hotel (http://www.loewshotels.com/en/hotels.../overview.aspx) I think it is very good

 

Nickelodeon .. The kids will love it.. & it's off Disney property It's basically a water theme park hotel.. for a more adult like setting the HYATT is always nice .. again off disney property..

 

I was there about a year ago and had one of the best meals of my life at the Yacht Club restaurant in the boardwalk area. I would strongly consider staying around that area. It's a very quick walk to epcot (under 5 minutes) and a short boat ride to MGM. As great as the monorail system is, the buses from that area are basically a straight shot to the magic kingdom.

 

I find it insane getting in and out so I stay in the park

 

Thanks for the post .. for staying at C.A check out www.creekstoneinn.com its a cool site for fabulous hotels.

 

I like the Swan and Dolphine, I believe they are Best Western, they are definitely not too Disney but inside the Park. Gives you early access before the crowds get entry. Bus service to everything. I stayed outside, what a hassle to get to the parks and the hotels are definitely not up to snuff compared to the Disney run ship.