Set inside a six-story cream stucco building lined with well-kept gardens and palm trees, the StaySky Suites I-Drive Orlando makes a friendly first impression. Inside, however, the feeling is not quite as appealing. The lobby, while bright and clean, lacks any real style. There are red and brown leather club chairs surrounding a large flat-screen TV; a dark wood-laminate reception desk; plus a cluster of vending machines and tourism brochures. The breakfast room and bar are likewise pretty basic and functional, but they too are kept clean and bright. Overall, the decor is a little bland, with some busy floral-patterned rugs, fusty wooden chairs, and dated white curtains in the hallways. Most guests here are families, but the overall feel of the hotel is very peaceful, as most leave early every morning to spend the day at the theme parks. 

Located one block off International Drive and away from the main road, the setting is quiet but convenient. It's a 10-minute drive to the Orlando Convention Center, but most guests are here for the theme parks: Wet N' Wild and Universal Orlando Resort are both within a five-minute drive, and Walt Disney World is a 15-minute drive. International Drive is within a 10-minute walk, where there are plenty of shops, restaurants, and attractions, such as Ripley's Believe It or Not. There’s also a large grocery store (Whole Foods) a five-minute drive away, and Orlando International Airport is within a 20-minute drive. There’s free car parking on-site, but those who want to leave the car at home can make use of the hotel’s free shuttle, which goes to all the big attractions. Although, previous guests have complained that the buses often run late, and it takes an hour to get to Disney World as the bus goes via other hotels and Universal Studios.

There are some Executive Rooms here, but most of the rooms are actually suites, which are well-suited to families. Decor is pretty consistent throughout -- lots of beige and brown fabrics, dark printed curtains, and chain-hotel-style wood furnishings. Each room is fairly spacious and has a coffeemaker, flat-screen TV, radio/alarm clock, air-conditioning, hairdryer, and iron and ironing board. Suites have ample closet space, living areas with couches, and kitchenettes with full-size refrigerator-freezers, dishwashers, microwaves, gas stoves, toasters, sinks, and plenty of pots, pans, and cutlery. Bathrooms follow suit -- they are clean and functional rather than stylish, with shower/tub combos in both rooms and suites. Windows overlook the swimming pool or the parking lot. 

As well as the free shuttle, the hotel offers other freebies to entice guests. There’s a free continental breakfast with typical hot and cold foods, and the bar offers free beer and wine two evenings per week. Parking and Wi-Fi are also free. There’s no restaurant here, but the bar sells reasonably priced snacks in the evening, and the shops and restaurants of International Drive aren’t far away. The small, heated outdoor pool and adjacent spa tub are pleasant, and always kept clean. There’s no shortage of plastic sun loungers either. Near the pool, there are a basketball court and a picnic area with barbecue grills. The guest laundry area is nice, too, and has smart commercial washers and dryers. Other family-friendly features include a small fitness center and an amusement arcade. The business center and meeting room are great for corporate travelers.