Universal Orlando
Resort Hotel Overview
with
Mom Approved Travel
Stay close to the fun with Universal Orlando Resort Hotels
One of the most frequent questions we are asked by families planning a trip to Universal Orlando, is usually “What is the BEST Universal Orlando hotel for families?” and this is a great question! Of course families want the BEST Universal hotel! But here’s the thing, the answer is going to vary for each and every single family out there. Your family is unique, and so should be your Universal Orlando hotel recommendation.
The better question to ask is: what is the BEST Universal Orlando hotel for my family? This is a question we can help with! There are no cookie cutter answers, as Universal Orlando hotels are not cookie cutter. Each Universal hotel has different price points, theme, vibe, resort amenities, transportation options, room options, bedding configurations, dining offerings, seasonal flair, and little nuances which make them unique.
There absolutely is a Universal Orlando Resort hotel for every family, and your Mom Approved Travel Agent will be able to match you with the best option for your family after your consultation. There are many times a MAT client family has come to us with the Universal hotel recommendation they received from their neighbor, their brother or friend and it was not the ideal resort for that family. Contact our Mom Approved Travel Planner experts to help you find the BEST fit for you and your family!
Knowing where you will stay for your Universal Orlando family vacation is one of the first steps in planning your Universal trip!
Feel free to read a little bit about these resorts below, and then reach out to our Universal Orlando expert Travel Agents to us to help you ensure the best Universal hotel for your family!
Universal Orlando Premier Resorts
Universal Orlando Premier resorts are the top hotel category, and you will enjoy larger rooms, luxurious amenities, convenient proximity to the Universal theme parks, water taxi service from most Premier resort hotels to CityWalk, and complimentary Universal Unlimited Express Passes included with your stay! Universal Premier Resorts also offer a short walk to the theme parks, which allows for flexibility and convenience!
- Club level rooms available
- Suites available
- Fun, Despicable Me Themed Kids Suites
- Early Park Admission to Universal theme parks
- Universal Express Unlimited™ access to skip the regular lines at participating rides and attractions at Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure.
- Easy water taxi transportation to the theme parks
The Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando is the coolest hotel on the planet. You can live like a rock star and savor the perks of rock ‘n’ roll royalty with impeccable surroundings, laid-back attitude and show-stopping service. Escape to a sensational world with a palm-lined swimming pool, incredible rock memorabilia and amped-up recreation featuring live music—including some famous names such as Taylor Swift, Elvis, Prince and more.
- Club level rooms available
- Suites available
- Fun, Rock Star Themed Kids Suites
- Early Park Admission to Universal theme parks
- Universal Express Unlimited™ access to skip the regular lines at participating rides and attractions at Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure.
- The closest hotel to Universal theme parks with a 5 minute walk
- Easy water taxi transportation to the theme parks
Loews Royal Pacific at Universal Orlando is a tranquil South Seas retreat filled with exotic food and carefree fun. A lush, beautiful place to relax after a busy day in the parks. A sparkling lagoon-style pool surrounded by a white sand beach and swaying palms invites you to escape. Curl up in the comforts of a private oasis in your room or suite.
- Suites available
- Fun, Jurassic World Themed Kids Suites
- Early Park Admission to Universal theme parks
- Universal Express Unlimited™ access to skip the regular lines at participating rides and attractions at Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure.
- Easy water taxi transportation to the Universal theme parks
- Convenient, walkable distance to the Universal theme parks
Helios Grand Hotel near Epic Universe at Universal Orlando
- Opening date – to be announced, expected in 2025
- The most convenient and closest option to Epic Universe with a short walk and a dedicated, exclusive entrance to Universal Epic Universe
- Elegant Mediterranean-inspired design
- Reservations and pricing for Universal Helios Grand Hotel are not available JUST yet, but you can get on our waiting list to be notified immediately when they are available!
Universal Orlando Preferred Resorts
Universal Orlando Preferred Resorts are a nice balance of amenities and value. There is a water taxi available to take you to Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure and Universal CityWalk, complimentary transportation to Universal Epic Universe and offers bus transportation to Volcano Bay. A walking path to CityWalk is available, but the walk is quite a bit further than the Premier Resorts.
Escape to the Island Paradise of Sapphire Falls Resort. From the stone turret in the lobby to the inviting charm of each room and suite, you’re surrounded by a vivid and textured haven that is inspired by landmarks of the islands. Blue waterfalls cascade over lush grounds and in the distance, the calming sounds of steel drums call you to take in the scenic views, ease into island time and let go. Amid the beach area, palm trees and pool you’ll find Caribbean-themed dining options, including a contemporary watering hole offering rare vintage rums.
- Early Park Admission to Universal theme parks
- Easy complimentary shuttle transportation to the Universal theme parks
- Walking distance to Volcano Bay
- Walking Distance to Universal Aventura Resort
Universal Orlando Prime Value Resorts
The Prime Value resorts at Universal Orlando offer an affordable option with essential amenities. These resorts offer complimentary bus transportation to Universal CityWalk, Universal Studios, Universal’s Islands of Adventure, and Epic Universe and a walking path leading directly to Universal’s water park, Volcano Bay.
- Early Park Admission to Universal theme parks
- Easy complimentary shuttle transportation to the Universal theme parks
- Walking distance and dedicated path to Volcano Bay
- Walking Distance to Universal Sapphire Falls Resort
Enjoy vibrant, retro-style with rooms and suites brilliantly designed for fun and affordability. Relax with a splash, surrounded by amazing iconic architecture inspired by classic Florida beach resorts of the 1950s and 60s. Sample a variety of options in the incredible food court. Every day comes with fun for all ages with two massive pools, a winding river, a bowling alley and more.
- Early Park Admission to Universal theme parks
- Easy complimentary shuttle transportation to the Universal theme parks
- Walking distance and dedicated path to Volcano Bay
- Walking Distance to Universal Sapphire Falls Resort and Universal’s Aventura Resort
Enjoy a fun style inspired by the planets and terrain of our solar system with 750 rooms designed for fun and affordability. Enjoy swimming in the relaxing pool or grab a bite at the poolside grill.
- Early Park Admission to Universal theme parks
- Easy complimentary shuttle transportation to the Universal theme parks
- Resort charging privileges with room key
Enjoy a fun celestial style inspired by stars of our solar system with 750 rooms designed for fun and affordability. Enjoy swimming in the relaxing pool or grab a bite at the poolside grill.
- Early Park Admission to Universal theme parks
- Easy complimentary shuttle transportation to the Universal theme parks
- Resort charging privileges with room key
Universal Orlando Value Resorts
Universal Orlando’s value resorts offer the most affordable accommodations. These budget-friendly properties have offer complimentary transportation to Universal CityWalk, Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure, Universal Epic Universe and Universal’s Volcano Bay.
- Early Park Admission to Universal theme parks
- Easy complimentary shuttle transportation to the Universal theme parks
- Early Park Admission to Universal theme parks
- Easy complimentary shuttle transportation to the Universal theme parks
LUXURY UNIVERSAL AREA RESORTS
The Four Season’s AAA Five Diamond, luxury Orlando Resort offers an elevated escape with the perfect balance of fun and relaxation. Splash around with the family at Explorer Island water park, or unwind beneath swaying palms at Oasis adult-only pool while young ones are entertained at Four Season’s complimentary kids camp. Treat yourself to a soothing, post-park massage at The Spa, then toast to the nightly Walt Disney World® fireworks views over dinner at the incredible Michelin-starred rooftop steakhouse Capa.
You can step into a newly refined haven of luxury, elegantly situated within Walt Disney World® Resort at the Walforf Astoria Orlando. Recently re-imagined, guests will enjoy new design and culinary innovations at award-winning restaurants like Bull & Bear and Peacock Alley.
One of our favorite extras at the Waldorf Astoria is the Saturday Waldorf Astoria Afternoon Tea, a fun tradition that does require an advanced reservation.
In addition to the tranquil Waldorf Astoria Orlando pool, guests of Waldorf Astoria Orlando may also enjoy the pool, lazy river, water slide and private cabanas at the adjacent Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek. WA Kids Club will keep everyone ages 5 – 12 happily entertained and feeling welcome.
Complimentary luxury transportation to and from the Disney Theme Parks is available with the Waldorf Astoria’s shuttle service.
Why stay at a Universal Resort ?
Staying at a Universal Orlando Resort Hotel allows you to stay close to the fun!
Why you should stay at a Universal Resort Hotel
The most important decision you need to make when planning your Universal Orlando Vacation, is choosing when you should visit. The second most important decision is, where you will stay. There are so many options out there, it can feel very overwhelming, hence where your Mom Approved Travel Advisor comes in.
They will simplify the options for you based on your unique vacation needs. Remember, it is important to know we are Professional Travel Advisors, not order takers. Your Universal vacation is not simply a transaction to us, we are invested in making sure you have the ideal Universal Orlando Resort experience for your family.
As a U-Preferred Travel Agency, we know why staying in a Universal Orlando resort makes the best return on investment of your vacation dollars for nearly all of our MAT client families.
Here are the benefits of staying on property at a Universal Orlando resort hotel:
- Convenience – Truly this is one of the top reasons to stay on property at Universal. The close proximity to the parks means you can get to the parks quicker, and spend less time in traffic. By staying in a convenient location, you can spend your time actually vacationing instead of traveling. This means more time relaxing, playing in the pools, or drinking Butterbeer in the park! This also means it is MUCH easier to take a mid-day break, or for only part of your family go back to the resort for a nap.
- Premier Resorts receive Free Universal Express Unlimited – having an Express Pass makes a big difference in your trip, and helps you play more and wait less!
- Complimentary transportation – Having the option of taking complementary Universal transportation to all of the parks means you don’t have to negotiate traffic, find a parking spot, or navigating a map. Resort buses run about every twenty minutes, but early in the morning and near park closing they run more frequently. Some resorts have additional forms of transportation available including the water taxi or even short walking options.
- Premier Resorts get Priority seating at Select Restaurants Dining Reservations – for table service restaurants when staying at a Premier Universal resort.
- Early entry into the Universal theme parks – onsite resort guests will get an extra hour in the park(s) with Early Park Admission with lower crowds.
- Complimentary Delivery of Merchandise to your hotel – No need to drag around all those souvenirs!
- Convenience of Charging Privileges – Staying onsite means you have the option to put a credit card on file and use your MagicBand to charge dining, gift shop and other purchases to your room.
- The Universal Bubble – while this benefit is not an “official” Universal hotel benefit, it is one that will be absolutely felt by your family. It is hard to describe to folks who have only known off-site vacation stays, but staying within the Universal bubble allows you to stay immersed in the fun and allows you to keep the business of everyday life away for a bit longer. Families feel more relaxed, more immersed and the experience feels a bit more fantastical. You may feel as if you have truly escaped the troubles of the world for a bit and your trip will feel more vacation-ish.
There are many incredible onsite Universal Orlando Resort Hotels and your MAT Advisor will help you find the best fit for your family so you can have memories to last a lifetime!
What about luxury Universal Orlando area hotel options ?
Loews Portofino Bay is one of our favorite Premier Universal resorts!
Luxury Universal Orlando area hotel options
While there absolutely is a Universal Orlando resort hotel for all budgets, there are luxury Universal area hotel options for those whose travel love language or travel priorities lead them to seeking out elevated, 5-star or luxurious accommodations as well.
The word “luxury” may mean different things to different people, so your Mom Approved Travel Advisor has the experience to find the best fit for your family based on your unique priorities.
Many of the Universal Premier Hotels offer club or concierge level options and specialty suites that meet the needs of many families. We also have a curated collection of distinctive luxury hotels available for Mom Approved Travel client families, such as the Waldorf Astoria Orlando and Four Seasons Resort Orlando which have distinctive experiences and benefits to help your Mom Approved Travel Agent curate the luxury Universal Orlando vacation you have been dreaming of.
In addition to luxury accommodations, your Mom Approved Travel Advisor can assist with experiences to enhance your luxury Universal Orlando vacation including incredible dining options, VIP tours, special events, spa experiences, and much more.
