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Getting There
From Orlando International Airport (MCO) (15 miles): Follow signs to the north exit of the airport. Take State Road 528 West (toll road) to exit 1, International Drive/SeaWorld. Turn left onto International Drive. At the traffic light, turn right onto Westwood Boulevard. Proceed approximately two miles and Marriott's Harbour Lake will be on your right.
Getting Around
If you're visiting the theme parks and arriving by air, it's best to rent a car, as there is no scheduled theme park shuttle service. The resort is located one mile from SeaWorld, Aquatica and Discovery Cove and is less than 15 minutes from Universal and Walt Disney World Resorts.
All About the Extras
From surfing lessons to resort-hosted scuba classes to scheduled family portrait sessions (9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Tuesday to Saturday), this resort really has an array of amenities to make your Orlando vacation memorable. A good portion of activities is free, which greatly enhances the appeal for budget-conscious families. Discounted tickets to area theme parks are available at the Concierge Desk, and special rates and play and stay theme park packages are available.
Refillable Mugs
At the Front Desk, purchase a resort mug for around $16 and receive complimentary refills on Pepsi fountain products for the length of your stay. $1 of each sale is donated to the Children's Miracle Network.
Fitness
At the Gym, located on the second floor of the Welcome Center, you'll find free weights and a range of cardiovascular equipment. All-day access is available with a resort keycard. For those who enjoy a more social workout, there's "Adult Aqua Boot Camp" and "Aqualates" (yoga in the water). Personal training sessions, as well as massages are available by appointment.
In-Room Babysitting
Kids Nite Out, an independent agency, provides in-room resort childcare. Rates are $16 per hour for the first child, with a four-hour minimum and a $10 caregiver transportation fee.
The Art of Smart Timing
Because it's a resort that's very popular with families, occupancy is high any time school is out of session. This includes times like spring break, summer and Christmas as well as holiday weekends like Labor Day and Columbus Day. The good news for traveling families is that during peak travel times, the resort expands its already-generous menu of activities, adding special themed events and seasonal offerings like a Hawaiian luau complete with hula dancers and fire throwing (summer months). If your kids aren't in school yet, September is a great time to visit. During this month, rates and occupancy are low and theme park crowds are light.
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