I visit Orlando maybe half-dozen times a year, sometimes more.  I usually try to stay near north International Drive (near Wet n' Wild or Dr. Phillips area).  I find that area to be safe with lots restaurants and things to do.  Note that traffic sucks everywhere in Orlando.  For that reason, I don't recommend staying near the Convention Center.  I made that mistake over the July 4th weekend. Now, to answer your question.  I once had business near UCF and stayed there a couple times.  Personally, I would try to avoid that area.  The crime rate is somewhat higher near UCF compared to other areas. I also found that there's not much to do after dark near UCF.  The high crime area lies mostly between the UCF campus and downtown. I've heard that the area just to the south of UCF, such as Oviedo, is a safe place to stay.