Disney's Wilderness LodgevsLoews Portofino Bay Hotel
Both Disney's Wilderness Lodge and Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando are rated very highly by expert reviewers. On balance, Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando scores significantly better than Disney's Wilderness Lodge. Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando scores 91 with accolades from 14 publications including Star Service, Condé Nast Traveler and Lonely Planet.
Disney's Wilderness Lodge
901 Timberline Drive, Lake Buena Vista, Orlando, FL 32830
From $344/night
- Bar/Lounge
- Hot Tub
- Free Internet
- Room Service
- Shuttle Bus
- Laundry Service
Oyster
Upscale
"It's not exactly luxurious -- subpar bedding; constant crowds; long lines -- but the 727-room Wilderness Lodge is still a superb family resort." Full review
DK Eyewitness
"The setting resembles that of the great national parks of the Northwest, with towering pines, a spewing geyser, and rough rocky terrain surrounding a spectacular pool."
Rough Guide
Star
"This magnificent, oversized replica of a frontier log cabin is furnished with massive totem poles, a wood-burning fire in the lobby, and Southern-style rocking chairs."
Fodor's
"The architects outdid themselves in designing this seven-story hotel modeled after majestic turn-of-the-20th-century lodges in the American Northwest." Full review
Travel + Leisure
"A towering lobby filled with totem poles, a replica geyser, and a waterfall-fed rock pool—this Orlando fantasy channels America's national parks to uncanny effect." Full review
i
Take a ride on a pony or in a horse-drawn carriage.
Gayot
"Even if you don’t stay there, the Wilderness Lodge is a can’t-miss attraction at Walt Disney World."
The Telegraph
8.0
"The iconic lodges of America’s National Parks are recreated in this immense log cabin style resort complete with pine forest, babbling indoor-outdoor stream, and a waterfall that flows into the swimming pool." Full review
Condé Nast Traveler
"Just a boat ride from the Magic Kingdom, this resort gives you the best of both worlds: convenience and relaxation." Full review
Frommer's
"This effective riff on Yellowstone’s woody Old Faithful Lodge, swaddled by oaks and pines, is picturesque and the least expensive of the Deluxe category" Full review
Lonely Planet
Top choice
"The handsome lobby's low-lit tepee chandeliers, hand-carved totem pole and dramatic 80ft fireplace echo national-park lodges of America's old West." Full review
Loews Portofino Bay Hotel Show All Reviews
5601 Universal Blvd., Orlando, FL 32819
From $266/night
- Pet Friendly
- Bar/Lounge
- Hot Tub
- Free Internet
- Room Service
- Shuttle Bus
Concierge
"Universal boasts the property is its most sumptuous, and while it's truly comfortable, it's still at heart a very busy property catering to theme park vacationers."
Insight Guides
"With a huge lagoon-style pool, a small sand beach, and Saturday "luaus" (Hawaian feasts), this Pacific Rim-themed hotel is particularly relaxing."
Fodor's
"The charm and romance of Portofino, Italy—destination of Europe's rich and famous—are conjured up at this lovely luxury resort." Full review
DK Eyewitness
"The charm and ambience of the Italian seaside village of Portofino have been meticulously re-created at this lavish resort."
Rough Guide
"A lavishre-creation of the Italian seaside village of Portofino, complete with vintage scooters parked in the piazza."
Michelin Guide
"Operated by the Loews Corp on Universal theme-park property, this colorful hotel edges a large body of water like the bayside Italian fishing village for which it is named."
Star Service
"Located inside Universal Studios, this polished top-shelf theme resort offers direct access via walkway to the park's CityWalk shops and restaurants." Full review
Gayot
"This is Portofino, although it is far removed from the location where you would probably expect to find it---the lovely lower thigh of the Italian boot."
Zagat
4.0
"Pretend like you're "visiting Italy" at this "upscale" Portofino-inspired resort that's "in the midst of amusement park excitement" while still providing a "relaxing" oasis."
The Telegraph
9.0
"The array of amenities is impressive and the dining is superb." Full review