Far enough outside the fray to feel like a true escape, yet close enough to get in on the action when you feel like it, Villas at Regal Palms caters to friend-groups and families looking for the best of both. Golfers will approve of the primo location next to the Highlands Reserve Golf Club, perched on one of the highest points in Florida – while theme park fans will appreciate the proximity to Orlando’s all-star lineup. The onsite tropical swimming pavilion is at the heart of the resort. Pull together enough loungers for your crew around the main pool, and keep your camera ready for classic candids of the kids’ faces as they splash from the waterslide into the pool. Grab inner tubes or that pink flamingo float you spent half the morning inflating, and head for the lazy river. Or sit in the shallow end of the zero-entry pool while the little ones splash. The Tiki Bar is on standby for lunch or mid-afternoon smoothies, and you’ll want to save a night for the pirate-themed Banana Jack’s. Let the kids go crazy, winning prizes at the arcade and indoor playground, and when they’re all gamed-out, grab a table on the covered patio by the pool for a casual dinner. Somewhere between theme parks and pool visits, sneak away to the day spa, and sip your complimentary mimosa or glass of wine while perusing the treatment menu and trying to make up your mind (for once, no rush).

Spacious, three-bedroom, two-bath vacation homes are tucked behind the Regal Palms Clubhouse, steps from the pool area – especially ideal when you forget the goggles or snacks. Fully equipped kitchens are your go-to for family-favorites at dinnertime. And there’s an in-unit washer and dryer, so the laundry situation when you return home is way less daunting. Spend evenings around a puzzle or board game in your living/dining area, until someone suggests the outdoor hot tub, and everyone scrambles to change back into swimsuits. Grab towels and the selfie-stick for some silly-face group shots, and head outside. You can get back to the game later – assuming you can remember whose turn it is.

Looking for things to do? Keep it low-key with sand volleyball by the pool on your non-theme-park days, then when you’re ready for an adventure, skip the long lines by purchasing park tickets in advance right onsite. Map out your stay to hit the best of the biggies – choose from Walt Disney World, Walt Disney World Water Parks, Universal Orlando, Legoland Florida, Sea World’s one-of-a-kind Aquatica, and Wet ’n Wild (with its new Blastaway Beach area!). The experts at the ticketing desk are happy to help you book attractions like the Orlando Eye, dinner shows and shopping tours as well.