Short trip to Orlando only - no parks

Question

We are looking to possibly book a 7 day trip to Orlando but will not be visiting any parks nor hiring a car.

We will however I’m sure during the time we are there be visiting City Walks, Disney Springs.

As it’s been nearly 18 years since we last visited there’s obviously been considerable change. Looking for some advice as where best to stay. We need somewhere near eg the IRide Trolley ( is this still a good service), bus and/or Uber

If however I have second thoughts and consider a car, what’s the best deal website to review this ? TIA

Answer

For a 7-day trip to Orlando without visiting theme parks, you can still enjoy a lot of the city’s dining, shopping, and entertainment hubs like Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk. Since you won’t be renting a car initially, staying near reliable public transit or Uber-friendly areas is key.

Where to Stay

Look for hotels or vacation rentals in the following areas, which provide good access to rideshare services and some public transit options:

Lake Buena Vista / Disney Springs Area: Many resorts here are within walking distance or a short shuttle/ride-share ride to Disney Springs. It’s a safe, walkable area with restaurants and shops on-site.
International Drive / Pointe Orlando Area: Central to CityWalk, restaurants, mini-golf, and attractions. Also close to the I-Ride Trolley line and rideshare pickup points.
Universal Orlando / Universal CityWalk Area: Convenient if you plan to visit CityWalk. Hotels in this area often have free shuttles to CityWalk and can be convenient for dining/entertainment.
Downtown Orlando / Church Street Area: Offers more urban options for dining, bars, and cultural activities. Good for walking and Uber access but farther from Disney Springs.

Transportation Options

Even without a car, you can get around effectively:

I-Ride Trolley: The I-Ride Trolley is still operational along International Drive and offers a convenient way to visit attractions, restaurants, and shopping spots in that corridor. It’s economical and reliable for daytime travel.
Bus: Lynx public buses cover Orlando, but schedules can be slower and less convenient for sightseeing outside the International Drive area.
Rideshare (Uber/Lyft): Highly recommended for getting to Disney Springs, CityWalk, or other areas outside the trolley route. Travel is fast and flexible, especially with small children or luggage.
Biking/Walking: For local areas like Disney Springs or Pointe Orlando, walking or renting e-bikes can be fun and convenient.

If You Consider a Car Rental

Renting a car can open up more areas like Winter Park, Lake Nona, or the outlet malls. Some tips for getting the best deal:

Compare sites like Kayak, Expedia, or Rentalcars.com for competitive pricing and options.
Check discount codes or AAA membership rates if applicable.
Off-site rental locations (away from the airport) sometimes have lower daily rates.
Consider renting a compact car for easier parking at resorts and urban areas.

Summary

For your no-parks Orlando trip, the Disney Springs or International Drive areas are ideal bases for a car-free trip, with convenient access to shuttles, the I-Ride Trolley, and Uber/Lyft. If you later decide on a car rental, using comparison sites will help secure the best deal and expand your ability to explore the wider Orlando region.

Short trip to Orlando only - no parks

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