The Hidden Florida Resort That Feels Tropical Without The High Cost

Palm trees sway, the pool sparkles in the sun, and the air carries that unmistakable vacation energy. Families splash, couples unwind, and the atmosphere feels indulgent without the worry of a mounting bill.

In Orlando, just minutes from Disney Springs, the Drury Plaza Hotel offers the kind of stay that balances comfort with cost.

Resort-style amenities, spacious rooms, and thoughtful perks create an experience that feels far more luxurious than the price suggests. It’s the rare Florida retreat that proves a memorable getaway doesn’t have to empty your wallet.

1. The Resort’s Vibe With A Food Lover’s Lens

Walking into Drury Plaza feels bright and modern, with warm wood accents and a sleek check-in desk that immediately sets a welcoming tone.

The lobby is airy and spacious, with playful pendant lights in soft shades of blue, amber, and cream adding a stylish touch overhead. Large windows bring in natural light, while comfortable seating areas offer a relaxed place to wait or unwind.

2. Breakfast Spread That’s Actually Included

Forget sad continental breakfasts with stale muffins. Every morning features a hot buffet with scrambled eggs, pancakes, sausage, and make-your-own Belgian waffles drizzled with Florida orange syrup.

Fresh fruit, yogurt parfait stations, and locally roasted coffee round out the offerings. For families, this complimentary meal saves roughly $50-60 daily compared to theme park breakfast prices.

3. The Evening Kickback Buffet And Drinks

Between 5:30-7pm, something magical happens: the Kickback. This evening spread offers rotating dinnertime snacks and cold beverages – substantial enough for dinner.

Adults receive three complimentary beverages ranging. Families gather around tables comparing park adventures while refueling for evening activities without additional restaurant expenses.

4. Snacks And Treats Throughout The Day

Midday hunger strikes meet their match with complimentary popcorn and soft drinks in the lobby each afternoon. Some even claim that fresh-baked cookies appear around 3pm – perfect timing for park-goers taking afternoon breaks.

The 24-hour pantry shop stocks reasonably priced snacks, from Florida orange candies to Mickey-shaped treats. Smart travelers grab provisions here instead of paying inflated theme park prices.

5. Nearby Dining At Disney Springs

A quick 10-minute shuttle ride delivers you to Disney Springs’ culinary wonderland without parking hassles. From celebrity chef restaurants to quick-service gems, over 60 dining options await.

Try the affordable Polite Pig for authentic Florida BBQ or D-Luxe Burger’s handcrafted patties. Return shuttles run until midnight, allowing for leisurely dinners and dessert without worrying about driving.

6. Hidden Gems On The Hotel Menu

The Kitchen + Bar restaurant surprises with dishes beyond typical hotel fare. Their Florida shrimp and grits uses locally sourced ingredients, while the citrus-glazed chicken reflects regional flavors.

Happy hour specials run from 3-6pm with half-price appetizers like loaded pretzel bites. Room service prices remain reasonable – the kids’ menu items are lower than the full portions (as it should be).

7. Poolside Bites And Refreshments

The zero-entry pool becomes a food destination with the seasonal tiki bar serving tropical smoothies and light fare. Frozen drinks cost several dollars less than comparable resort offerings.

Orderable poolside service means never leaving your lounge chair for lunch. Guests report having fruit popsicles and pretzels while appreciating the reasonable tab compared to other Orlando resorts.

8. Family-Friendly Food Options

Family suites feature mini-fridges and microwaves, perfect for storing leftovers or preparing simple meals. The marketplace sells milk, cereal, and sandwich supplies for impromptu picnics.

Kids’ dining needs receive special attention with allergy-friendly options clearly marked. Parents appreciate the fresh fruit always available and healthy sides that come standard with children’s meals instead of just fries.

9. Local Orlando Eats Just Beyond The Resort

Venture five minutes beyond Disney’s borders to discover authentic Florida fare at half the price. Family-owned Yellow Dog Eats serves incredible pulled pork sandwiches in a converted historic home.

SeaWorld-adjacent restaurants offer early bird specials before 5:30pm. Download the hotel’s local dining guide highlighting hidden gems like 4Rivers Smokehouse, where brisket rivals Texas standards but with unique Florida twists.

10. Why It’s A Budget-Friendly Choice For Foodies

Number-crunching reveals the value: a family of four can save up to $125 daily through included meals alone. Unlike other resorts advertising “free breakfast” (continental only), Drury’s full hot offerings actually satisfy until lunchtime.

The evening Kickback can substitute for dinner several nights of your stay. Many guests report spending a lot less on food during their vacation compared to stays at comparable Disney-area hotels.

11. Tips To Maximize The Dining Perks

Smart guests bring collapsible containers to breakfast for creating park snacks – fresh fruit and muffins travel well for midday hunger pangs.

Plan park days strategically: visit Magic Kingdom on Kickback nights featuring heartier options like pasta bars. The hotel’s refillable souvenir cup pays for itself after just three uses compared to buying individual drinks.