Exploring the Best Hotel Options at Universal Studios Orlando
Written by Cheyenne Broyles
As a travel agent at People Mover Travel, I’ve had the pleasure of exploring many incredible destinations, but there’s something truly magical about Universal Studios Orlando. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a couple’s getaway, or a solo adventure, finding the right place to stay is key to a fantastic experience. Universal offers a variety of hotel options, each with its own unique appeal. Let’s dive into the different on-site hotels at Universal Studios Orlando, and I’ll also share my personal top picks!
Universal Studios Orlando On-Site Hotels: A Comprehensive Guide
Just like at Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando’s on-site hotels offer a range of benefits that can make your stay even more enjoyable. No matter which hotel you choose, you'll have access to:
Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando!
Early Park Admission: Get into the parks an hour before they open to the general public.
Resort-wide complimentary transportation: Includes bus, boat (where available), and a hotel-to-hotel shuttle.
Room key charging: Charge purchases around the resorts and theme parks directly to your room.
Resort-wide package delivery: Have your theme park purchases delivered to your hotel.
On-site dining: Enjoy a variety of dining options right at your hotel.
Pools and pool bars: Take a dip and enjoy a refreshing drink at the poolside bar.
Fitness centers: Available even at the Value hotels.
Game rooms: Keep the fun going with arcade games.
Universal Studio Stores: Convenient on-site shopping for resort merchandise.
Let’s break down the hotel categories:
1. Premier Hotels
Premier hotels are the top tier at Universal and are rated four diamonds by AAA. These hotels offer luxurious accommodations, top-notch amenities, and additional perks like the Unlimited Express Pass, which allows you to skip the regular lines at most attractions in Universal Studios Orlando and Islands of Adventure.
The Premier hotels include Loews Portofino Bay Resort, which exudes Italian ambiance; Hard Rock Hotel, offering a rock ’n’ roll vibe in a Southern California-inspired setting; and Loews Royal Pacific Resort, which features lush South Pacific island theming. While these hotels offer the most luxurious experience and convenient proximity to the parks, the cost can be a significant factor for some travelers. But keep in mind the money you may be saving if you were already planning on purchasing Universal Express Passes for your travel party!
Hard Rock Hotel!
2. Preferred Hotels
Preferred hotels are similar to Premier hotels but lack the Unlimited Express Pass. These hotels offer a blend of luxury and affordability, making them a great choice for those looking for a little more than a basic stay without breaking the bank.
Loews Sapphire Falls Resort, the only Preferred hotel, is Caribbean-themed with easy access to conference rooms at Loews Royal Pacific and offers boat and bus transportation to the parks. While it provides many of the amenities of the Premier hotels at a lower price, the longer walk to the parks and the absence of the Unlimited Express Pass may be drawbacks for some guests.
3. Prime Value Hotels
Prime Value hotels are equivalent to Disney’s moderate resorts yet offer unique amenities at a lower price. These hotels are perfect for guests who want a fun and comfortable stay without splurging on luxury.
Options include Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort, which features a mid-century design and amenities like a lazy river and bowling alley, and Universal’s Aventura Hotel, a sleek, contemporary high-rise with high-tech rooms. Additionally, Universal’s Stella Luna Resort and Terra Nova Resort (coming soon!), both space-themed, are located near the upcoming Epic Universe park.
4. Value Hotels
Value hotels are the most budget-friendly option at Universal Orlando, offering a no-frills experience that’s perfect for those who want to spend most of their time at the parks rather than the hotel.
Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside & Dockside Inn and Suites is the sole Value hotel complex, featuring a laid-back California beach vibe.
Standard Room at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort!
My Top Picks: Where I Recommend Staying
While all of the on-site hotels at Universal Studios Orlando have their unique charms, I have a couple of personal favorites that I often recommend to my clients:
Cabana Bay Beach Resort: This is my go-to recommendation for families and budget-conscious travelers. It offers an incredible value with its retro theming, fantastic pool area, and fun amenities like the lazy river and bowling alley. Plus, it’s within walking distance of Volcano Bay, making it a super convenient choice.
Loews Royal Pacific Resort: For those looking for a bit more luxury and convenience, Royal Pacific is hard to beat. The South Pacific theming is beautiful and immersive, and the included Unlimited Express Pass is a game-changer for maximizing your time at the parks. The combination of luxury, theming, and perks makes this hotel one of my top picks.
No matter which hotel you choose, staying on-site at Universal Studios Orlando comes with its own set of perks that enhance your overall vacation experience. Whether you’re drawn to the fun and affordability of Cabana Bay or the luxury and convenience of Loews Royal Pacific, you’re sure to have an unforgettable stay.
You could say Cheyenne has loved Disney her entire life... literally! She made her first trip to the Disney parks when she was only an infant (with her parents of course) and her love for all things Disney has only grown ever since. She visited the Disneyland Resort once a year throughout her entire childhood, even after her family moved to Idaho (hello 14 hour road trips!) She always knew that Disney would be a huge part of her life and was ecstatic to become a Disney travel agent in 2017. She loves creating magic for all of her clients by helping them plan their dream vacations. Cheyenne still lives in Idaho, now with a husband and two black Labradors added to the gang. She visits the parks as much as she can to enjoy both the nostalgia and all the new magical experiences that only Disney can offer!
If you want to work with Cheyenne to plan your next great adventure to a Disney Park, on a cruise or beyond you can fill out a quote form here!