I have to be honest, I don't know if Delaney's Hotel is considered a hidden gem, but hidden?…read moreAbsolutely. If you don't follow your GPS like it's the voice of God, you'll drive past this place at least 10 times wondering if you're being pranked. Once you finally find it, though, you're in for a surprise. The hotel is attached to a magnificent steakhouse and gives off this classy vineyard-patio vibe that makes you feel like you're about to attend a wine tasting, even if you're just there for work like I was. Walking up, there are beautiful outdoor tables with glass tops where guests can relax, eat, and pretend they're important. Then you walk into the lobby and BAM dark wood floors, elegant furniture, comfortable sofas, and enough atmosphere to make you wonder, Wait what did I accidentally book? I was honestly concerned I'd somehow clicked the wrong hotel and was about to max out my credit card. Nope. Surprisingly affordable. The room? Fantastic. You've got a Keurig machine ready to fuel your caffeine addiction, a nice big TV, all the amenities you need, and then there's THE BED. Listen, I don't know if it's a pillow-top, a cloud-top, a Sleep Number, a NASA mattress, or if angels personally fluff it every afternoon, but that thing is dangerous. I laid down for what felt like five minutes and woke up the next morning. I slept harder than a newborn after a bottle. Now let's talk about room service. They have this little stand where you order directly from the steakhouse downstairs. I ordered dinner, expecting hotel prices that require a small bank loan. The bill was $35. I nearly called the front desk to report a pricing error. Meanwhile, I was hungrier than a hostage, and they delivered a meal fit for royalty. For a brief moment, I genuinely felt like a VIP. The hotel also has a nice bar for those who enjoy a drink. I don't drink, but if I did, I probably would've celebrated finally finding the entrance. Bottom line: great atmosphere, beautiful property, comfortable rooms, amazing food, affordable prices, and a mattress that may have supernatural powers. Would I stay here again? Absolutely. Would I still need GPS to find it? Also absolutely.

Me and Hubs did a random staycation in Orlando and stayed here in June. Love that they have parking…read moreavailable close to the hotel entrance. Check in was prompt, informative and friendly! Very pleased about the ceiling fan in the room. Honestly one of the cleanest hotel rooms we've experienced, even compared to more expensive stays. Very spacious room too. We ate at the restaurant on site which was also very good.

This spot is great for the whole family. I loved the inclusion of the outdoor games. They were…read moregreat for the kids! When it comes to inside the space, they have so many options in terms of food. I like how the food represented a bunch of different cultures from around the world. They also have a very good seating area, and there is a space for events. I attended a draw lab event here and it was really fun to get to be with that group and also have time to explore the space.

Them: "We're going to the Great Southern Box Company after work." Me: "What's that?" Them: "It's on…read moreNorth OBT, just past 50." Me: "I'm not going anywhere on North OBT." Them: "No, it's a food hall in the Packing District." Me: "You are literally making up random words to me right now and saying them."   If you've lived in Orlando for most of your life like I have, you might've thought the only thing worth your time in this neighborhood was long-time staple Fairvilla Megastore. While Fairvilla's stamina and staying power are still going strong, there's a new entry into this previously otherwise under stimulating area--gentrification. Princeton & North OBT apparently underwent an industrial chic makeover in the past few years, becoming essentially "New College Park" (CP is a few blocks east), gaining a Publix, some trendy apartments called the Cannery, and the Great Southern Box Company food hall.   The GSBC concept is honestly great--it's a collection of locally-owned restaurants arrayed around a central bar in the middle of a big hall. There's large, open seating both inside and especially outside, where there's a large astroturf lawn with lounging chairs and lawn games. My review mostly focuses on the venue as a whole, specifically the bar in the middle, but there are multiple individual small businesses and vendors within that definitely deserve their own separate, stellar reviews at a later date, as the food at these is amazing - - these include Eighty Twenty, Antica Pizzeria, Fui Yo Mexicana, A Lo Cubano, Braza Brazilian Steakhouse, Waffle Sandwich Bar, and more. The sheer amount of choices makes this place a definite recommendation even though my group's most recent experience at the middle bar wasn't as good as my last one- - the concept and overall vibe is just that good.   A group of us went on a Friday night after work (my second visit) and sat in a booth near the bar. Prices are ok, $5-7 for beers, and $10-$14 for cocktails. The drinks on this trip were "Meh." A friend had already arrived and ordered one cocktail, sharing that she'd taken a while to get noticed even though the bar was not crowded and there were many bartenders. She also said her drink was mostly mixer ("It's all juice!"). I walked over to the bar and was served right away but was told that on a Friday night they were out of all beers except for two (Smithwick and an IPA). I ordered the Smithwick, which wasn't filled to the top; I later ordered a Honey & Thyme, which turned out to be a very light pour and mostly the lemon zest mixer, same as my friend's. My other friend ordered a Tony's Spicy Rita ($14) at that point and received it in a small plastic cup, as there were no more glasses.   That said, I'd visited here a year ago and remembered that the drinks and service were great, so I don't know if this was a rare off night or indicative of a longer, more permanent slide in quality. We ordered some GREAT food from Eighty Twenty, but more on that in a separate review of that business, as it deserves its own accolades.   The inconsistency of my two experiences in the center bar (each a year apart) is the only reason I give four stars instead of five, but I really do appreciate this concept as a whole, and I very much hope this place and the businesses within succeed and continue to be around for a long time.   I'll be visiting again for sure, and hopefully the next time will be a bit closer to what I remember on my first visit. Again, the concept and overall vibe is just that good. I DO recommend that Orlando residents (especially long-time residents who are just learning for the first time that Orlando has a Packing District) check this out, as no matter what, you'll find something good for every member of your group that will make it worth your time.

The rooms are nice. Paying for parking kind stinks but it is in the heart of downtown Orlando so…read morethat's expected. The view and the balcony of the bar that's also in the hotel is very nice though.

Great location walking distance to the Kia Center. The restaurant and main check in located on an…read moreupper level gave a great view and ambiance . Lower entrance had a coffee shop and seating to wait for a ride or your car. Paid parking only. Great for a quick weekend in downtown Orlando. The restaurant food and drinks were delicious. Indoor and outdoor seating.

I was invited to an art opening at the Oakland Manor House. I don't know if i was dazzled more by…read morethe beautiful art or by the incredibly beautiful restoration of the Oakland Manor house. The Manor house was built in 1921 as a guest house, back when Oakland was the place to be in Orange County. We had the pleasure of meeting one of the men who lovingly restored this house and he fave us a tour and told us the history. I would highly recommend this as a place to stay or a place to have a small event. It is absolutely gorgeous!

A quiet retreat near Lake Apopka in Oakland Fl. A place for tranquility, RN wellness Coaching,…read more consultations, meditation classes, yoga retreats, and more. Classes for The Artists Way by Julia Cameron. Monthly book club meetings and monthly nature walks featuring the Flora and Fauna of Central Florida. See Facebook and www.oaklandmanorhouse.com and livingwellrn.net. Bed and breakfast. 5 rooms available. Near West Orange Trail and Lake Apopka. .

This is really a place for those who want to forgo avoid cookie-cutter hotels. Beverly runs a…read moregracious and beautiful b&b. The inn is filled w/ pioneer spirit of a long-ago and can-do farmer who crafted a beautiful home on the edge of a small lake. If you want to sleep under crisp sheets, curl up in an after-bath (FL-weight) robe and enjoy a beautiful breakfast in a lovely restored dining room, this is a must-do property. I indulged in daily late afternoon naps on the 2nd floor screened porch, perched among the canopies of huge Live Oaks-forest bathing at its finest! Fear not! There isn't a single stuffed lamb or kitzish wall hanging to be found. Nothing pseudo about this place. Enjoy the 'real deal'!

We had the pleasure of recently spending 3 nights at the Thurston House. Two words of advice if…read moreyou will be in the area...Stay Here! Bev is the consummate host. The house and accomodations are well cared for, well appointed, and very clean. The breakfasts are delicious. The grounds are beautiful. There is lots to do, and great restaurants in the immediate area. Our new favorite Bed & Breakfast. Tami & Matt

A Phenomenal Stay at the Tugboat Resort - Orlando…read more From the moment I arrived, the experience was nothing short of exceptional. I was greeted with a warm welcome, and before I could blink, my luggage was whisked away as I was introduced to their stunning boutique‑style resort home. Every detail felt designed to please the soul, 24‑hour food and beverage, a Sleep Number bed, heated toilets, and the most luxurious bedding and towels imaginable. The décor was truly 5‑star, elegant, thoughtful, and comforting in every corner. They provide RH towels!! The pool became the heart of my stay. High‑end chaise loungers, double canopy umbrellas, and a peaceful atmosphere made it feel like a private oasis. And the highlight? Breakfast and coffee delivered right to me poolside, pure bliss. This place is a gem. Next time I stay, I plan to bring my entire family and rent out the rooms so we can all enjoy it together, it's perfect for celebrations and making memories. Tugboat Resort didn't just meet expectations... it exceeded them in every way. 20/10 in my books.

My daughter booked this resort for her wedding party. The hosts went above and beyond to make the…read moreevent and our stay memorable and comfortable! The time we spent there made it seem like more than a venue for an event, we felt like family. Cant recommend it enough!

A hub for start up tech companies and fostering new growth in the downtown area, I'm a fan of this…read morebuildings newest redesign. If you're an old school Orlando resident you'll remember the days when this place had shops, food and an arcade. You may even recall that the infamous Ron Pearlman had an office here once upon a time. After losing attention from visitor to competition like Disney, Universal and large strip malls, it sat vacant for a time. Then came 2014/2015 when several new start up tech companies came in and gave the space new life. The addition of Creedo coffee helps to fuel these young professionals as the build up their businesses and revive this building. Let's hope it continues to be a great place for a thriving bunch of great start ups that help Orlando grow! Overall: A Love the newest face on this space!

5 Stars for a building with a crazy history, a heck of a design, and an surprisingly innovative new…read moreidentity. Oh yeah, and it's also a 90s Mouseketeer. I'm about to make a bold claim. The Church Street Exchange is Orlando's Christina Aguilera. Bear with me here for a minute as I make my case. Remember simpler times when Christina was a teen princess, wearing pastel pants, crop tops, and a shy smile? That was the Exchange building as a mall and arcade. It was built in the 80s as a destination for tourists who wanted to eat and shop after days spent at Disney. It was young but had great bones- perhaps the decor was a bit over the top, but this set the building apart from the other teen pop stars of the day. But much like the growing competition of the teen starlet scene, Disney and Universal decided they would create their own "downtowns" and shopping districts and the Exchange building was bound for its first transformation. Enter XTina. I liken the Lou Pearlman office era of the Exchange Building to the wrestling/brothel setting of that timeless and eloquent hit, Dirrrry (three Rs). The fact that the Exchange was scene to an FBI raid of Pearlman's offices is just the cherry on top for the purposes of this comparison. And now we have a transformed Christina. Mother. Judge on the Voice. Surprise collaborator to little-known bands like A Great Big World (catapulting them into stardom). Much like this new and improved Christina, the current iteration of the Exchange building is one that holds a lot of promise, and whose role is to support innovators. With the intentional addition of multiple tech companies, a women's leadership center, and a tech startup co-working space, the Exchange has reinvented itself and is attracting the young, vibrant, creative class of Orlando. Will this be the permanent new identity for both Christina and the Exchange building? Maybe. Will we still look back on their history with somewhat evil glee? Obvs.

This is a great place to stay!!! We enjoyed happy hour at the bar on arrival. The next day had…read morelunch at the restaurant and it was great.....good portions for the price. There are plenty of seating areas to sit back and relax. The hotel staff were all smiles and very knowledgeable about the surrounding area. Will definitely stay here again.

The hotel is clean & the location to UCF is perfect. There are coffee makers & mini frig in the…read morerooms which is nice. The beds & pillows are ok, clean but firm so if you like that then you're good. We didn't use any of their other facilities since we were here for UCF orientation. The employees all seem nice & professional, very kind. The only complaint is when we went to rebook for family weekend the price hike for the rooms was ridiculous. Sadly we won't be staying here during the price hikes.