Is Cambria Hotel Orlando a Good Stay? Traveler Reviews and Honest Assessment
The Cambria Hotel Orlando on Universal Boulevard has become a popular choice for visitors exploring the theme park capital of Florida. Located in the heart of the tourist corridor, this upscale hotel promises a blend of modern amenities, convenient access to major attractions, and quality accommodations. But does it live up to the hype? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll examine real traveler reviews, analyze what makes this property stand out, and help you determine whether the Cambria Hotel Orlando is the right choice for your next Florida vacation.
Whether you’re planning a family getaway to the theme parks or a business trip to the Orlando area, choosing the right hotel can make or break your experience. The Cambria Hotel Orlando presents itself as a mid-to-upscale option that bridges the gap between budget-friendly chains and luxury resort properties. We’ve gathered insights from actual guests, analyzed the property’s strengths and weaknesses, and provided practical information to guide your booking decision.
Location and Accessibility: Universal Boulevard’s Premier Position
The Cambria Hotel Orlando sits strategically on Universal Boulevard, placing it within walking distance or a short ride to some of Florida’s most visited attractions. This location is one of the property’s strongest selling points for theme park enthusiasts. Guests consistently praise the proximity to Universal Orlando Resort, making it an ideal choice for families planning multiple days at the parks.
The hotel’s location offers several practical advantages. The Universal Boulevard corridor provides easy access to International Drive, which connects to Walt Disney World, SeaWorld, and other major attractions. For guests arriving at Orlando International Airport, the hotel is approximately 20-25 minutes away by car, making ground transportation relatively straightforward. Many travelers note that the location reduces the need for expensive park shuttles or rental cars, as the Universal parks are accessible on foot or via the complimentary hotel shuttle service.
Accessibility within the hotel itself meets modern standards. The property features elevators, accessible parking, and rooms designed for guests with mobility challenges. Staff members are generally responsive to accessibility requests, though some guests have noted that the hotel could improve signage and wayfinding for first-time visitors navigating the property.
Room Quality and Amenities: What Guests Actually Experience
Traveler reviews paint a generally positive picture of the Cambria Hotel Orlando’s accommodations. Rooms are consistently described as clean, spacious, and well-appointed compared to typical mid-range hotel offerings. The property underwent renovations in recent years, and this investment is evident in guest feedback about modern furnishings and updated technology.
Standard rooms feature comfortable bedding, flat-screen televisions, work desks suitable for business travelers, and modern bathrooms with quality toiletries. Many guests appreciate the in-room coffee makers, mini-refrigerators, and USB charging ports—amenities that matter for both leisure and business travelers. The rooms maintain a contemporary design aesthetic that feels fresh without being overly trendy.
One of the standout features is the hotel with pool near me amenities. The Cambria features a heated outdoor pool and hot tub, which guests find inviting after long days at theme parks. The pool area is well-maintained and includes comfortable lounge seating. Some travelers mention that the pool can get crowded during peak seasons, but overall satisfaction with this facility is high.
The property also offers hotels with family rooms configurations, including suites with separate sleeping areas and living spaces. These options are particularly popular with families traveling with children, as they provide more flexibility than standard rooms. Parents appreciate the additional space for managing luggage, strollers, and the general chaos that comes with young travelers.
Dining and Food Services: Restaurant Options and Quality
The Cambria Hotel Orlando houses an on-site restaurant and bar, which provides convenient dining options without leaving the property. Traveler reviews of the dining experience are mixed but generally positive. The restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner service with a menu featuring American cuisine and some international options.
Breakfast service receives particular attention in guest reviews. While the hotel doesn’t offer a complimentary breakfast buffet like some best hotels with free breakfast options, the restaurant provides breakfast items available for purchase. Pricing is comparable to other tourist corridor properties, though some guests feel breakfast costs are slightly elevated compared to off-property options.
The quality of food and service at the restaurant is generally praised. Staff members are described as attentive and knowledgeable about menu items. The restaurant also serves as a bar in the evenings, providing a convenient spot for guests to unwind after days at the theme parks. The atmosphere is professional and family-friendly, accommodating both leisure travelers and business guests.
For guests seeking additional dining options, the Universal Boulevard location provides easy access to numerous restaurants, cafes, and quick-service establishments within walking distance or a short drive. This proximity means guests aren’t limited to the hotel restaurant if they prefer other cuisines or dining experiences.
Guest Experience and Service: The Human Element
Traveler reviews consistently highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the Cambria Hotel Orlando staff. The front desk team receives particular praise for helpfulness, with guests noting that staff members go beyond basic assistance to provide recommendations for attractions, restaurants, and local transportation options. This level of service is especially valuable for first-time visitors to the Orlando area.
Housekeeping standards are described as excellent in most reviews. Rooms are cleaned thoroughly, and staff responds promptly to requests for additional towels, toiletries, or maintenance issues. The property maintains a clean common areas, including hallways, elevators, and public spaces.
Guest services also extend to practical matters like package handling, luggage storage, and coordination of special requests. Parents traveling with children often mention appreciation for staff flexibility regarding early check-in or late checkout, though these accommodations depend on availability and may incur additional fees.
Some negative reviews mention occasional issues with noise levels, particularly in rooms near elevators or the pool area. This is common in mid-to-large properties but worth noting for light sleepers. A few guests have reported inconsistent experiences with maintenance responsiveness, though these instances appear to be exceptions rather than the norm.
Value for Money: Is the Price Right?
Determining whether the Cambria Hotel Orlando represents good value depends on your priorities and travel dates. During peak seasons (summer vacation, holidays, spring break), room rates can reach $200-300+ per night. During slower periods, rates may drop to $100-150 per night. These prices position the property as mid-to-upscale compared to budget chains but more affordable than luxury resort properties.
Guests generally feel the room quality and amenities justify the mid-range pricing. The property offers more than budget options while costing less than luxury alternatives. For families prioritizing theme park proximity and willing to pay for convenience, the value proposition is compelling. Business travelers appreciate the modern rooms and work-friendly amenities.
One factor affecting overall value is the lack of included breakfast. Properties offering best hotels with free breakfast”>best hotels with free breakfast options may provide better total value for families planning to eat most meals at the hotel. However, the Cambria’s central location means guests can easily access numerous breakfast options within walking distance.
Parking is complimentary, which adds value for guests with vehicles. The property does not charge resort fees, which some Orlando hotels impose on top of the room rate, making the final cost more transparent and predictable.
Nearby Attractions and Activities: Your Gateway to Orlando Fun
The Universal Boulevard location provides unparalleled access to major Florida attractions. Universal Orlando Resort is the primary draw for most guests, with the property offering convenient walking access or shuttle service to the theme parks. This proximity eliminates transportation hassles and allows guests to maximize their time enjoying attractions rather than traveling to and from the hotel.
Beyond Universal, the hotel’s location provides easy access to other major Orlando attractions. Walt Disney World is approximately 15-20 minutes away by car. SeaWorld and other tourist corridor attractions are similarly accessible. The central location makes the Cambria an excellent base for guests planning to visit multiple attractions during their stay.
The surrounding area offers numerous restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. International Drive, just moments away, features everything from casual dining to upscale restaurants, souvenir shops, and entertainment attractions. This abundance of options means guests can customize their experience based on personal preferences and interests.
For guests interested in exploring beyond theme parks, the Orlando area offers natural attractions, cultural museums, and recreational activities. The hotel staff can provide recommendations and assistance with planning excursions beyond the immediate tourist corridor.
Pros and Cons Summary: Making Your Decision
Pros:
- Excellent location on Universal Boulevard with walking access to theme parks
- Clean, spacious, well-appointed rooms with modern amenities
- Professional, friendly staff consistently praised in reviews
- Heated pool and hot tub facilities
- No resort fees or parking charges
- On-site dining and bar options
- Suitable for families, business travelers, and leisure visitors
- Mid-range pricing for the location and quality offered
- Complimentary hotel shuttle to theme parks
Cons:
- No complimentary breakfast included
- Peak season rates can be high
- Potential noise issues in rooms near elevators or pool
- Pool area can become crowded during busy periods
- Some guests report occasional maintenance responsiveness issues
- Limited on-site entertainment options beyond dining
- Parking can be limited during peak occupancy periods
FAQ
Is the Cambria Hotel Orlando within walking distance of Universal Studios?
Yes, the Cambria Hotel Orlando is located on Universal Boulevard with walking access to Universal Orlando Resort. Most guests can walk to the parks in 10-15 minutes, though the exact distance depends on which park entrance you’re accessing. The hotel also provides complimentary shuttle service for guests preferring not to walk.
Does the Cambria Hotel Orlando offer complimentary breakfast?
No, the Cambria Hotel Orlando does not include complimentary breakfast with room bookings. However, the on-site restaurant serves breakfast items available for purchase. The location also provides easy access to numerous breakfast options within walking distance or a short drive.
What is the average nightly rate for the Cambria Hotel Orlando?
Room rates vary significantly based on season and demand. During peak periods, expect $200-300+ per night. During slower seasons, rates may be $100-150 per night. Booking during off-peak times or using discount codes can result in better rates.
Are there family room options available?
Yes, the Cambria Hotel Orlando offers suite configurations and hotels with family rooms that provide separate sleeping and living areas. These options are ideal for families traveling with children and offer more space than standard rooms.
Is parking included at the Cambria Hotel Orlando?
Yes, parking is complimentary for all guests. This is a significant advantage compared to some Orlando hotels that charge for parking, and it adds value to your stay.
Does the hotel have a shuttle to the airport?
The Cambria Hotel Orlando does not provide complimentary airport shuttle service. However, the hotel is approximately 20-25 minutes from Orlando International Airport by car. Guests can arrange ground transportation through rental cars, ride-sharing services, or paid shuttle options.
What amenities does the hotel offer for business travelers?
The Cambria Hotel Orlando caters to business travelers with modern rooms featuring work desks, high-speed internet, and business center facilities. The property also offers hotels with airport shuttle alternatives and professional meeting spaces for small groups or conferences.
How are guest reviews for the Cambria Hotel Orlando overall?
Guest reviews are generally positive, with most travelers rating their stays as good to excellent. Common praise includes location, room quality, staff friendliness, and cleanliness. Minor complaints focus on breakfast costs, occasional noise, and peak-season crowding. The property maintains strong ratings across major review platforms.
