If your associated with the military at all, don't forget Shades of Green. Nice hotel on property, but they also have ITT for ticket deals and two nice golf courses you can play. If you stay on property, you can bus/monorail your way to the different parks and you save on parking/hassle, but there is no doubt that cheaper hotels can be found off property.

The Embassy Suites on International is off property, but in a busy area with lots of restaurants. Its closer to Universal, but they have a great free breakfast, fast shuttle, and the last time we stayed there, great service.
Several hotels both on and off property have great pool areas that can be fun without even leaving the hotel.

If your kids are Harry Potter fans at all, you must visit the Universal Parks as they have two parks with $Billion Harry Potter areas with rides and mockups of the books. Really is well done!