If you’re heading to East Orlando, you probably have a very specific reason for being there. Maybe you’re visiting a student at the University of Central Florida, or perhaps you’ve got a week-long contract at the Research Park nearby. Honestly, most people just assume every hotel in Orlando is a "Disney hotel." That’s mistake number one. The TownePlace Suites Orlando East/UCF Area is about as far from Mickey Mouse as you can get while still technically being in the same city.
It’s tucked away on High Tech Avenue. The name tells you exactly what kind of neighborhood this is—corporate, quiet, and very "Silicon Valley of the South." But don’t let the dry address fool you. Since the major renovation in June 2024, this place has shifted from a tired roadside stop to something that actually feels like a modern apartment.
The Reality of Staying at TownePlace Suites Orlando East/UCF Area
When you walk in, the first thing you notice is the smell. Not that weird "hotel musk," but something cleaner. The staff here—people like Inmanica at the front desk who guests constantly rave about—actually remember faces. That’s rare. You’ve probably stayed at places where the desk clerk looks through you. Not here.
The hotel is a 3-star, smoke-free, all-suite setup. Basically, it’s designed for people who don't want to eat out for every single meal. If you've ever tried to survive on takeout for ten days straight, you know the soul-crushing feeling of a greasy cardboard box. Having a real kitchen changes the vibe of your trip completely.
The Room Breakdown
They have 105 rooms. You can pick between a Studio, a 1-bedroom, or a 2-bedroom suite.
The 2-bedroom queen suite is the real winner if you’re traveling with family or a group of four. It’s nearly 500 square feet. It’s got two separate bedrooms and a sofa bed.
Privacy exists.
That’s a big deal.
In every room, you’re getting:
- A full-sized refrigerator (not a "mini" that barely fits a soda).
- A four-burner range and oven.
- A dishwasher (because nobody wants to do dishes on vacation).
- A 32-inch Smart TV with Netflix and cable.
One little detail I love? The Container Store partnership. They have these "closet systems" in the rooms that actually help you organize your gear. It’s a small thing, but it makes the room feel less like a temporary box and more like a home.
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Where the Hotel Hits (and Misses)
Let's be real for a second. No hotel is perfect.
The breakfast is free, which is great. It’s a continental spread with a waffle maker that basically keeps the place running. However, some travelers find it a bit "standard." If you’re a foodie, you’ll probably find the liquid eggs a bit underwhelming. But hey, it's free.
The fitness center is open 24 hours. It’s got the basics—treadmills, some weights. It's fine for a quick sweat. Then there’s the outdoor pool. It’s heated in the winter and kept cool in the summer. It isn't a resort-style lagoon, but on a 95-degree Florida afternoon, it's a lifesaver.
The Location Factor
You are exactly 0.5 miles from the UCF entrance. You can basically see the campus from some of the upper floors.
It’s also only 1.7 miles from the Addition Financial Arena. If you’re in town for a graduation or a concert, this is your home base.
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If you want to eat, you have to walk—or drive a very short distance—to University Blvd.
- 4 Rivers Smokehouse: This is legendary in Florida. It's literally 0.1 miles away. Get the brisket. Don't think about it, just do it.
- Lazy Moon Pizza: For when you want a slice of pizza the size of a manhole cover.
- Azteca D' Oro: Solid Mexican food right around the corner.
The Pet Policy "Gotcha"
Is it pet-friendly? Yes.
But here is the catch most people miss: the fee. It’s $150 per stay.
If you’re staying for one night, that is a steep price to pay for your dog to sleep on the floor. If you’re staying for two weeks, it’s a bargain. They allow two pets of any size, including cats and dogs. There’s a grassy relief area on the property, but don't expect a full-blown dog park.
Who Should Actually Stay Here?
If you are a tourist who wants to spend every waking second at Universal or Disney, this is a bad choice. You’ll be driving 40 minutes each way in some of the worst traffic in the country.
However, if you are:
- A parent visiting a UCF student.
- A contractor working at Lockheed Martin or Siemens.
- Someone relocating to Orlando who needs a kitchen while they find a house.
- In town for a tournament at the USTA National Campus (about 20-25 mins away).
Then the TownePlace Suites Orlando East/UCF Area is perfect. It’s functional. It’s clean. It has free parking, which is becoming a rarity in this city.
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Strategic Tips for Your Stay
- Ask for the Fountain View: A few guests have noted that rooms facing the fountain are much quieter and have a better vibe than those facing the parking lot.
- Check the TV: They use satellite/cable, but since it’s a Smart TV, bring your logins for Netflix or Hulu.
- Housekeeping: They don't always do daily service for short stays unless you ask. If you want fresh towels every morning, let the front desk know at check-in.
- The BBQ Grill: There is a communal grill by the pool. If you want to save money, grab some steaks from the nearby Publix and cook out. It’s a great way to meet other long-term guests.
If you’re looking for a luxury resort with a spa and a concierge in a tuxedo, keep moving. But if you need a reliable, newly renovated spot with a kitchen and a staff that actually cares, this is the one. It handles the "home away from home" thing better than most of its neighbors.
Next Steps for Your Trip
To make the most of your stay at the TownePlace Suites Orlando East/UCF Area, start by checking your Marriott Bonvoy status to see if you qualify for a room upgrade, which often secures those quieter fountain-facing suites. If you're traveling with a pet, call the front desk directly after booking to confirm a pet-accessible room on the ground floor for easier access to the relief area. Finally, plan your arrival for after 4:00 PM to ensure your suite is fully prepped following the afternoon cleaning rotation.