Clarion Suites Maingate

It's hard to miss the three-story Clarion Suites Maingate, which has a fun, blue-and-white checkered exterior. The whimsical pattern and the carport outside have a whimsical 70s vibe. The hotel is surrounded by well-maintained grounds, with cut grass and palm trees. Guests enter their rooms through exterior doors, motel-style. Inside, the lobby is bright, and is more functional than beautiful. There are a reception area, a tile floor, and a lounge area with a small table and a few chairs. There is not much in the way of decor, besides some art prints behind the front desk, and blue and red furniture. Located about a 10-minute drive from Walt Disney World, this hotel clearly targets families.

Many theme park-area hotels are located off busy roads that keep them isolated from other conveniences, but the Clarion Suites Maingate is located within a few blocks of numerous eateries and shops. Situated in a neighborhood dotted with small lakes, the hotel is within a 15-minute walk of several chain restaurants, including Cracker Barrel, TGI Friday’s, Bonefish Grill, Carrabba’s Italian Grill, and more. There are also two Chinese restaurants nearby. Also within walking distance is Formosa Gardens Village, a shopping, dining, and entertainment complex that includes the Mighty Jungle Golf Adventure, a safari-themed miniature golf course.

Rooms are clean and modern, with standard hotel decor -- basic wooden beds and nightstands, with sofa beds and coffee tables. The sofa bed is a nice bonus for families and bigger groups. The beige walls and gray striped comforters are tasteful. Amenities in each room include a flat-screen TV, a mini-fridge, a microwave, and a safe. Rooms, and the bathrooms inside, are of average size, but black marble sinks add an unexpected touch of refinement.

Like other hotels in the area, the Clarion Suites Maingate offers a free shuttle to theme parks and outlet shopping. However, this service is on a first-come, first-served basis -- and buses can get crowded. Another freebie is the breakfast buffet, which is basic. Guests who want more variety opt to pay for breakfast elsewhere, which is easy to do given the dozen chain restaurants within walking distance. The outdoor pool is large, and like the guest suites, both it and the adjacent kiddie pool are basic, and clean.

In the lobby, Pixies Java Cafê serves coffee beverages, breakfast sandwiches, muffins, and other grab-and-go items. The hotel’s sit-down restaurant, Jumbo’s Eatery, specializes in large portions like the Grande Macho Nachos and Triple Stacked Grilled Cheese. In addition, the lobby houses two computer workstations, and an ATM. Disney park tickets are also available for purchase.