The Spread:
Part of Universal Orlando, the Hard Rock Hotel is a good bet for families because of its easy theme-park access and Loews branding. Like all Loews hotels, the property caters to families with programs such as Loews Loves Kids (check-in gifts and board games to borrow);

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Loews Loves Pets (any size dog is welcome and gets a treat); Healthy Kids (menus with smoothies and other nutritious options); and Family Concierge (a designated person to recommend family activities in the area).

Kids of all ages enjoy the themed resort's rock-and-roll memorabilia, and 14 of the 650 rooms and suites are designed for families with specially decorated attached kids' rooms.

Why Families Love It:
The Hard Rock Hotel's close proximity to Universal Studios is the initial lure. Staying here comes with privileges, too, including preferred access to most park rides and attractions, courtesy shuttles, and priority seating at restaurants and shows. A complimentary shuttle also circulates to SeaWorld and Wet 'n Wild.

After a day at the parks, parents can enjoy the restaurants and dance clubs at CityWalk while their kids (ages four to 14) head to supervised play at Camp Lil' Rock, open daily 5 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. and until midnight on Friday and Saturday. The per-hour charge is $10 for the first child and $8 for each additional child in the family. Kids receive an inflatable Hard Rock guitar and dinner is available at an extra charge.

Outdoors, families congregate at the pool with its sandy beach, underwater music, interactive fountains, 260-foot slide, and private cabanas. A game room, poolside activities, and an ice cream shop add to the fun. Parents can play golf at nearby courses and use the spa at sister resort, Portofino.

Special Activities & Events:
In The Kitchen restaurant, the Kid's Crib room is children-only, complete with a plasma TV theater, toys, and kid-sized furniture. On select nights, Scooby Doo, Shaggy, Woody Woodpecker, and other characters show up to sign autographs and pose for photos.

Once a week, families gather in the pool for free "dive-in" movies.