If you’re planning a Universal Orlando vacation, one of the first big decisions is where to stay! With so many Universal Orlando Resort hotels to choose from, finding the perfect fit for your family can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry—that’s where we come in!
Whether you’re looking for luxury, family-friendly fun, or a budget-friendly option that still puts you close to the action, Universal Orlando offers an onsite hotel for every style and budget. Staying onsite not only keeps you close to the parks, but also comes with exclusive perks that can make your Universal Orlando trip smoother and more magical.
Here’s everything you need to know about the best hotels at Universal Orlando, including the newest Epic Universe hotels opening in 2025!
Choosing one of the official Universal Orlando Resort hotels comes with three major advantages: Proximity, Perks, and Theming.
1. Proximity to the Parks
When you stay at a Universal Orlando hotel, you’re never far from the fun! Depending on the resort, you can walk, hop on a shuttle, or cruise via water taxi to Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Universal CityWalk. Starting in 2025, Epic Universe will also be easily accessible via free shuttle service from all onsite resorts.
Many hotels offer dedicated security entrances, saving you valuable time in the morning rush.
2. Exclusive Resort Perks
Guests at any Universal Orlando hotel receive Early Park Admission, giving you access to select theme parks and attractions up to one hour before regular guests.
If you stay at one of Universal’s Signature Hotels (Premier category), you’ll also receive FREE Universal Express Unlimited ride access—an incredible perk that lets you skip the regular lines at most rides and attractions.
👉 Pro Tip: The included ExpressPass Unlimited at Signature Hotels can save you hundreds of dollars (and hours of waiting!) during your stay.
3. Unique Themes & Immersive Experiences
Each Universal hotel offers an immersive, themed experience, whether you’re looking for retro-cool, tropical vibes, or an outer space adventure. Plus, many resorts offer family suites, kid-themed rooms, and Club Level upgrades for extra perks.
Which Universal Orlando Resort Hotel Is Right for You?
There’s no wrong choice when it comes to Universal Orlando Resort hotels, but some are a better match depending on your budget, family size, and must-have amenities. Below, we’ve broken down each hotel to help you choose the best place to stay at Universal Orlando for your vacation.
👉 Still feeling stuck? Reach out to our friends at Willow + Wand —they’ll help you plan your Universal Orlando stay faster than you can say Accio hotel!
Signature (Premier) Universal Orlando Resort Hotels
Luxury accommodations with top-tier perks, including FREE Universal Express Unlimited!
🎸 Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando
-
Live the rock star life at the Hard Rock Hotel, where California mission-style meets music legend vibes.
-
Walk to Universal Studios Florida in under 5 minutes.
-
Features: underwater music in the pool, legendary rock memorabilia, and larger suites with kid-friendly rock 'n’ roll decor (keep an eye out for Taylor Swift art!).
-
Perks: Early Park Admission + FREE Universal Express Unlimited.
🇮🇹 Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
-
Escape to Italy at Loews Portofino Bay, inspired by the seaside village of Portofino.
-
Features: cobblestone streets, al fresco dining, and Jurassic Park-themed kids’ suites.
-
Water taxi transportation to the parks and CityWalk.
-
Perks: Early Park Admission + FREE Universal Express Unlimited.
🌴 Loews Royal Pacific Resort
-
Transport yourself to a South Seas paradise at Loews Royal Pacific.
-
Features: a white sand beach, lagoon-style pool, and island-themed rooms.
-
Close proximity to Islands of Adventure and CityWalk by water taxi.
-
Perks: Early Park Admission + FREE Universal Express Unlimited.
Epic Universe Hotels
Be among the first to stay at these all-new hotels in Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe!
🌞 Universal Helios Grand Hotel
This luxurious resort rises above Celestial Park inside Epic Universe.
-
Features: Mediterranean-inspired design, celestial patterns, and exclusive entrance to Epic Universe.
-
Complimentary shuttle service to Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and CityWalk.
🌌 Universal Stella Nova Resort
Explore the infinite possibilities of outer space at Stella Nova Resort.
-
Features: cosmic theming, sleek design, and easy shuttle access to all Universal parks.
🌙 Universal Terra Luna Resort
Inspired by discovery and exploration, Terra Luna Resort is your launchpad for adventure and landing zone for relaxation.
-
Features: modern design, relaxing pool areas, and complimentary shuttles to all Universal Orlando parks.
Preferred Universal Orlando Resort Hotels
Moderate pricing with upgraded amenities and prime park access.
💎 Loews Sapphire Falls Resort
Escape to the Caribbean at Sapphire Falls Resort, where island time rules.
-
Features: waterfall-surrounded pool, water slide, and Caribbean-themed dining.
-
Dedicated walking path to Volcano Bay and water taxi service to the other parks.
-
Optional Club Level Rooms with lounge access and complimentary breakfast, snacks, and drinks.
-
Perks: Early Park Admission.
Prime Value Universal Orlando Resort Hotels
Affordable stays with modern design and convenient park access.
🏙️ Universal Aventura Hotel
Contemporary style and affordability meet at Aventura Hotel.
-
Features: rooftop bar with theme park views, modern rooms, and easy walking path to Volcano Bay.
-
Perks: Early Park Admission.
Value Universal Orlando Resort Hotels
Best for budget-conscious travelers and larger families!
🏄♂️ Universal Cabana Bay Beach Resort
Step back in time at Cabana Bay, a retro-chic resort inspired by 50s and 60s Florida beach towns.
-
Features: lazy river, bowling alley, and two massive pools.
-
Room types: standard rooms, family suites, and 2-bedroom suites with Volcano Bay views.
-
Dedicated walking path to Volcano Bay.
-
Perks: Early Park Admission.
🌅 Universal Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites
Coastal cool vibes and family-friendly suites await at Dockside Inn.
-
Features: 2-bedroom suites with kitchenettes, standard rooms, and casual dining.
-
Perks: Early Park Admission.
🏖️ Universal Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites
Feel the laid-back surf culture at Surfside Inn.
-
Features: surfboard-shaped pool, SoCal-inspired dining, and spacious 2-bedroom suites.
-
Perks: Early Park Admission.
Perks for ALL Universal Orlando Resort Guests
No matter which Universal Orlando hotel you choose, all onsite guests receive:
✅ Early Park Admission to select theme parks (up to one hour before opening!)
✅ Complimentary transportation to all three theme parks and Universal CityWalk
✅ Resort-wide charging privileges and room key purchases
✅ Package delivery from the parks to your resort
✅ Priority seating at select Universal restaurants
