14 Hotels Within Walking Distance Of Universal Studios Orlando (30 Mins Or Less!)

14 Hotels Within Walking Distance Of Universal Studios Orlando (30 Mins Or Less!)

14 Hotels Within Walking Distance Of Universal Studios Orlando (30 Mins Or Less!)

This article is your complete guide to the best hotels within walking distance to Orlando Universal Studios. The choices for hotels may seem endless when it comes to vacationing in Orlando. But especially for Universal Orlando Resort. Thankfully for guests looking for the quickest way to get to the parks, there are an array of hotels within walking distance of Universal Studios Orlando.

That’s why we are here to name the hotels closest to Universal Studios 2023 in this guide! We are going to list them out from closest to furthest in terms of walking distance to Universal Studios.

We hope you find this post helpful! Our goal at The Park Prodigy has always been to help you save time and money on your next Universal Orlando vacation!  If you are planning a trip to Universal Orlando be sure to check out the latest deals on Universal Orlando vacation packages and our discounted Universal Orlando tickets which include EARLY PARK ADMISSION to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!

SPECIAL NOTE: If you’re looking for the best time to visit Universal Orlando check out our Universal Crowd calendar!

Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar

What are the Hotels Closest to Universal Studios 2023

There’s nothing worse after a long day at the parks than waiting for and taking a long shuttle ride back to your hotel. Or even worse, paying for the ride. When booking a hotel for a theme park vacation, not only do you have to book a hotel with comfort in mind, but also accessibility and proximity to the parks. Out of the near 480 hotels in the Orlando area, we have taken the time to break down the hotels within walking distance to Universal Studios Orlando so you don’t have to. All of the discount hotels we’ve chosen are within a 30 minute or less walking distance to or from a CityWalk gate. Some of which are even the best hotels near CityWalk Orlando 2023!

Our closest hotels to Universal Studios list is made for guests wanting the most convenient and most walkable hotels when planning to book a trip to Universal Orlando Resort.

Closest hotels to Universal Studios Orlando 2023

• Universal Studio’s Hard Rock Hotel
• Universal’s Loews Royal Pacific Resort
• Universal’s Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
• DoubleTree By Hilton Hotel At The Entrance To Universal Orlando
• Holiday Inn Across from Universal Orlando
• Universal’s Loews Sapphire Falls Resort
• Universal’s Aventura Hotel
• Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort
• Hyatt House Across From Universal Orlando Resort
• Four Points By Sheraton Orlando International Drive
• Home2 Suites By Hilton Orlando Near Universal 
• Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn & Suites
• Motel 6 – Orlando International Drive
• Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn & Suites

Can you walk to Universal from Loews?

One of the most popular questions we receive on this topic is, can you walk to Universal Orlando from the Loews hotels? And as a general rule of thumb, guests can walk from any of the Universal Orlando Loews hotels to the main two theme parks. However, it’s also important to note that the walking distance will vary depending on the hotel you choose with the Loews Portofino Bay and Loews Royal Pacific Resorts being the closest Loews hotels.

Related Post: Ultimate Comparison of Universal Orlando Premier Hotels

What are the Hotels Within Walking Distance of Universal Studios Orlando Ranked 2023?

• #1 – Universal Studio’s Hard Rock Hotel
• #2 – Universal’s Loews Royal Pacific Resort
• #3 – Universal’s Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
• #4 – DoubleTree By Hilton Hotel At The Entrance To Universal Orlando
• #5 – Holiday Inn Across from Universal Orlando
• #6 – Universal’s Loews Sapphire Falls Resort
• #7 – Universal’s Aventura Hotel
• #8 – Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort
• #9 – Hyatt House Across From Universal Orlando Resort
• #10 – Four Points By Sheraton Orlando International Drive
• #11 – Home2 Suites By Hilton Orlando Near Universal
• #12 – Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn & Suites
• #13 – Motel 6 – Orlando International Drive
• #14 – Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn & Suites

In this ranking, we are going to rank the hotels walking distance to Universal Studios 2023 closest to furthest away from a park gate. We will also include mileage, price, and dining options each hotel offers to help you make your decision on the closest hotel to Universal Orlando that is best for you. As you can see the closest hotels to Universal tend to be the premier resorts, however there are also some great cheap hotels near Universal Orlando which are only another 10-15 minute walk away.

Related Post: Pet Friendly Hotels Near Universal Orlando

#1 – Universal Studio’s Hard Rock Hotel – Closest hotel to Universal Studios Orlando 2023

Walking Time: 9 minutes

Distance: 0.4 miles

Starting Rates: Starts at $359.00 per night 

Dining Options: The Kitchen, The Palm, Emack & Bolio’s Marketplace, Velvet Bar, Beachclub, & 24 hr Room Service

Transportation: Water Taxi, Universal Shuttle Bus, & Walking Path

Important to know: Not only is the Universal Studio’s Hard Rock Hotel the hotel closest to Universal Studios, but staying here includes a slew of amazing perks. Here you have the options of either a Standard Room, Club Level Room, and a Suite. Along with amazing room options, you’ll also receive Early Park Entry to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter completely free of charge. And speaking of free, possibly the greatest perk of this resort is the free Universal Express Pass Unlimited. This pass allows you to skip the line at participating rides as many times as you’d like throughout the day of your visit. But we think the distance to Universal Studios 2023 is worth it alone!

This is also the one of the only hotels connected to Universal Studios Orlando Resort.

Can you walk from Hard Rock Hotel to City Walk?

Yes, guests can easily walk from the Hard Rock hotel at Universal Orlando to City Walk. In fact it’s only about a 5-10 minute walk depending on how quickly you can move.

Related Post: How Much is a Universal Express Pass?

#2 – Universal’s Loews Royal Pacific Resort

Walking Time: 9 minutes

Distance: 0.4 miles

Starting Rates: Starts at $312.00 per night 

Dining Options: Islands Dining Room, Jake’s American Bar, Orchid Court Lounge & Sushi Bar, Tuk Tuk Market, Bula Bar & Grille, 24 hr. Room Service

Transportation: Water Taxi, Universal Shuttle Bus, & Walking Path

Important to know: The Loews Royal Pacific Hotel is Universal’s Premier Polynesian themed hotel. When asking yourself, what hotel is closest to Universal Studios Orlando? And the Hard Rock Hotel is slightly out of your budget, this hotel is a great less expensive alternative. Not only is it equally as close, but it also includes all of the same perks! One of our favorite touches in this hotel are the amazingly themed rooms! Here you can find Jurassic Park and Jurassic World themed rooms to enhance your stay. 

Related Post: Hotels With Free Shuttles to Universal Orlando Resort

#3 – Universal’s Loews Portofino Bay Hotel – Hotels closest to Universal Studios 2023

Walking Time: 16 minutes

Distance: 0.7 miles

Starting Rates: Starts at $372.00 per night 

Dining Options: Mama Della’s Ristorante, Bice Ristorante, Trattoria del Porto, Sal’s Market Deli, The Thirsty Fish, Splendito Bar and Grill, Gelateria, Starbucks, 24 hr. Room Service

Transportation: Water Taxi, Universal Shuttle Bus, & Walking Path

Important to know: Loews Portofino Bay Resort may not be the closest hotels to Universal Orlando 2023, but it sure is one of the most stacked hotels on our list. The benefits of this hotel are similar to the those listed above. Included in your room cost, you receive Early Park Entry, Express Pass Unlimited, and Priority Seating at participating restaurants. One of the major perks for us with this hotel is the Starbucks location on site. There’s nothing better than sipping on your morning coffee while on your walk to the parks to start your day. Rather than waiting in the long lines at the Starbucks locations at CityWalk or in the parks. This makes the close walking distance to Universal Studios Orlando 2023 a breeze.

Related Post: Complete Guide to Bars & Clubs at Universal CityWalk

#4 – DoubleTree By Hilton Hotel At The Entrance To Universal Orlando

Walking Time: 17 minutes

Distance: 0.8 miles

Starting Rates: Starts at $106.00 per night 

Dining Options: American Grill, Gelato Shop, Pizzas Burgers & More, Starbucks, Sunshine Cafe

Transportation: Scheduled Universal Partner Shuttle Bus & Side Walks

Important to know: This DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel at the Entrance to Universal Orlando does require you to cross S. Kirkman Rd. which is a pretty busy street that boarders the Universal Resort. So keep this in mind when considering this hotel. Other than that setback, we love the Starbucks location located inside of this resort! Not only can you walk from Hilton to Universal Studios, the price is a steal! We also love the amount of dining options, and beautiful views of the Universal Resort this hotel has to offer! 

Related Post: The Cheapest Way to go to Universal Studios

#5 – Holiday Inn Across From Universal Orlando

Walking Time: 18 minutes

Distance: 0.8 miles

Starting Rates: Starts at $125.00 per night 

Dining Options: Onsite TGI Friday’s – Kids 11 or under eat free! Free meals from ordering breakfast, lunch, or dinner off the kids menu.

Transportation: Scheduled Shuttle Service, Onsite Budget Car Rental, & Side Walks

Important to know: The Holiday Inn Across From Universal Orlando is the most convenient off-site hotel. This means the hotel is not attached or affiliated directly with the Universal Orlando Resort. When it comes to amenities, this Universal Orlando off site hotels still delivers. Not only does it include a 24hr fitness center, pool, and business center, there are also Universal perks! When staying at this hotel, you can enjoy discounts on merchandise at select Universal Orlando theme park locations. Along with discounts on food and non-alcoholic beverages at Universal parks and CityWalk. 

Related Post: Best Transportation from MCO to Universal

#6 – Universal’s Loews Sapphire Falls Resort

Walking Time: 17 minutes

Distance: 0.8 miles

Starting Rates: Starts at $202.00 per night 

Dining Options: Amatista Cookhouse, Strong Water Tavern, New Dutch Trading Co., Drhum Club Kantine, 24hr. Room Service

Transportation: Water Taxi, Universal Shuttle Bus, & Walking Path

Important to know: The Loews Sapphire Falls Resort is where we start to come down in price and perks. You will still receive Early Park Admission, there is no Express Pass included with your stay. What we love about this resort is the location. This is the only one of Universal’s hotels within walking distance of Universal Studios, Volcano Bay, and CityWalk. All other Loews Resorts require you to take a bus to Volcano Bay. This Caribbean themed hotel is sure to melt your worries away and completely immerse you into vacation mode. 

Related Post: How to get the Universal Express Pass for Free

 #7 – Universal’s Aventura Hotel – Walking to Universal Studios Orlando 2023

Walking Time: 19 minutes

Distance: 0.9 miles

Starting Rates: Starts at $140.00 per night 

Dining Options: Bar 17 Bistro, Urban Pantry, barVentura, Bar Sol, Starbucks

Transportation: Universal Shuttle Bus, & Walking Path

Important to know: Just steps away from Volcano Bay sits Universal’s Aventura Hotel. This modern, and stylish place to stay offers Early Park Admission with your Universal visit. We have to be honest and say not much stands out about this hotel. The main reason for listing this hotel is because it is the most modern of the hotels walking distance to Universal Orlando, and it’s also considered to be one of the best Universal Orlando hotels for large families.  If you’re looking for a cool, sophisticated place to enjoy your vacation, this is it! 

Related Post: Guide to Universal’s Early Park Admission

#8 – Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort

Walking Time: 19 minutes

Distance: 0.9 miles

Starting Rates: Starts at $140.00 per night 

Dining Options: Bayliner Diner, The Hideaway Bar & Grill, Atomic Tonic, Galaxy Bowl Restaurant, Swizzle Lounge, Starbucks, Delizioso Pizza

Transportation: Universal Shuttle Bus, & Walking Path

Important to know: Universal Orlando’s fourth on-site hotel – Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort features a total of 1,800 moderate and value priced rooms. Here you can immerse yourself into the classic, retro-feel of iconic beach resorts from the 1950s and 60’s. Not only can you walk from cabana bay to Universal Studios, but Cabana Bay guests can experience incredible amenities throughout the hotel, including two zero-entry pools, a bowling alley and Universal Orlando’s first ever lazy river!

Related Post: Cabana Bay vs Endless Summer Resorts at Universal Orlando

#9 – Hyatt House Across From Universal Orlando Resort

Walking Time: 20 minutes

Distance: 0.9 miles

Starting Rates: Starts at $169.00 per night 

Dining Options: Breakfast Bar, H Bar, H Market

Transportation: Universal Hotel Partner Shuttle Bus & Walking Path

Important to know: The Hyatt House Across from Universal Orlando Resort is truly an accurate descriptive name. Although it is a 20min walk, this hotel is quite literally across the street from Universal Orlando. This makes it a great option if you’re looking for off-site hotels to stay near Universal Studios Orlando. Located in the same pod of hotels as some of the other non-Universal hotels on this list, you also have to cross a busy street to get to the parks. Keep this in mind when traveling with little ones and wanting to walk! As a guest of a Universal Hotel Partner, you also get to enjoy some exclusive discounts on select food and merchandise.

Related Post: Where to Stay at Universal Orlando? 

#10 – Four Points By Sheraton Orlando International Drive

Walking Time: 25 minutes

Distance: 1.2 miles

Starting Rates: Starts at $118.00 per night 

Dining Options: Tropical Palms, Tropical Breezes Pool Bar, Tropical Breezes Deli Diner

Transportation: Universal Hotel Partner Shuttle Bus & Side Walks

Important to know: One of the most greatest benefits of staying at the Four Points by Sheraton is that it is the closest Marriott to Universal Studios Orlando! This means that you can potentially use your Marriot Rewards Points to pay for your stay. If you have enough points, that could mean your hotel stay at Universal would be absolutely free! If you aren’t a Marriot BonVoy member, while this hotel is walkable to the parks, we would recommend other hotels on this list. In order to walk to Universal Resort, you have to walk along very busy roads and an overpass over Highway 4. This isn’t the safest option on our list! 

Related Post: Complete Guide to Universal’s Single Rider Lines

#11 – Home2 Suites By Hilton

Walking Time: 22 minutes

Distance: 1.2 miles

Starting Rates: Starts at $133.00 per night 

Dining Options: Free Hot Breakfast

Transportation: Universal Hotel Partner Shuttle Bus & Side Walks

Important to know: This Home2 Suites by Hilton is located in the same pod of hotels as the Four Points by Sheraton. And while this is one of the hotels across the street from Universal Studios Orlando, the cons of booking this hotel remain the same as above in regards to walkability. Our reason for putting it on the list besides that it is less than a 30 min walk is the price to stay ratio. We think that if you’re a Hilton Honors Member, this is a great option for you. If you aren’t part of their reward system, we would highly recommend a different hotel on this list. 

Related Post: Top 12 Universal CityWalk Restaurants

#12 – Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn & Suites

Walking Time: 27 minutes

Distance: 1.3 miles

Starting Rates: Starting at $132 per night

Dining Options: Pier 8 Market, The Wave Maker’s Pool Bar, The Oasis Beach Bar, Starbucks, Sunset Lounge

Transportation: Free Universal Shuttle Bus

Important to know: Dockside Inn and Suites is one of the 8 official Universal Orlando hotels offered for guests to book and is the sister hotel of Surfside Inn & Suites. Not only can you walk from Dockside Inn to Universal Studios, you also get Early Park Admission with your stay, which means getting into the parks one hour before regular park open. There is also a regular scheduled shuttle bus that picks up guests every 20 minutes, which is super convenient and reliable. We also love the family suites at both of the Endless Summer Resorts as we feel these are great family friendly Universal Orlando hotels! 

Related Post: Complete Comparison of Dockside and Surfside Inn

#13 – Motel 6 – Orlando International Drive

Walking Time: 27 minutes

Distance: 1.3 miles

Starting Rates: Starting at $84.99 per night

Dining Options: Free Coffee & Vending Machines

Transportation: Side Walks

Important to know: The Motel6 – Orlando International Drive is the least expensive option for hotels closest to Universal Studios 2023. That’s about it when it comes to perks of this location. We must stress that this hotel is in the same pod of hotels as mentioned earlier on this list that requires you to walk on an overpass above I-4. With that in mind, if the walk is do-able for you and your family, it is a great option to save some money on your Universal Orlando Vacation.

Related Post: Discounted Universal Orlando Tickets

#14 – Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn & Suites

Walking Time: 29 minutes

Distance: 1.3 miles

Starting Rates: Starting at $132 per night

Dining Options: Beach Break Cafe, Sand Bar, Starbucks

Transportation: Free Universal Shuttle Bus

Important to know: Not only did the Endless Summer: Surfside Inn make our list of hotels within walking distance of Universal Studios Orlando, it also is our pick for the best cheap hotel near Universal Orlando. Both Surfside and Dockside Inn and Suites will have the same pricing, room size and overall feel, but we prefer Surfside. Surfside’s feels more calm than Dockside Inn and Suites, and we prefer the dining at Surfside which gives it an edge. Not only can you walk from Endless Summer to Universal Studios, you will also get to use the free Universal shuttle bus and get Early Park Admission with your stay, which are the biggest perks.

Related Post: Guide on Universal’s Early Park Admission

Hotels Within Walking Distance Of Universal Studios Orlando FAQ 2023

What hotels can I walk to Universal Studios?

There are 14 hotels within walking distance of Universal Studios Orlando. These hotels are, Universal Studio’s Hard Rock Hotel, Universal’s Loews Royal Pacific Resort, Universal’s Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, DoubleTree By Hilton Hotel At The Entrance To Universal Orlando, Holiday Inn Across from Universal Orlando, Universal’s Loews Sapphire Falls Resort, Universal’s Aventura Hotel, Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort, Hyatt House Across From Universal Orlando Resort, Four Points By Sheraton Orlando International Drive, Home2 Suites By Hilton Orlando Near Universal, Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn & Suites, Motel 6 – Orlando International Drive, & Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn & Suites.

Can you walk to Universal from Endless Summer Resort?

So we would say yes you can absolutely walk to Universal from both Endless Summer Resorts, however based on our experience this walk is not for everyone as it can be around a 30-35 minute walk. These resorts are the Surfside Inn & Suites and the Dockside Inn & Suites. Both Surfside and Dockside will have the same pricing, room size and overall feel, but we prefer Surfside. Surfside’s feels more calm than Dockside Inn and Suites, and we prefer the dining at Surfside which gives it an edge. Not only can you walk from Endless Summer to Universal Studios 2023, you will also get to use the free Universal shuttle bus and get Early Park Admission with your stay, which are the biggest perks.

Can you walk to Universal from the DoubleTree?

Yes! The DoubleTree by Hilton is within walking distance to Universal Orlando via an elevated sidewalk over S. Kirkman Rd. On average, you can plan this walk to take 17-20 minutes depending on your party size and how quickly you’re willing to walk before park open. There is also a free scheduled shuttle that takes hotel guests to the entrance of CityWalk.

How far to walk from Endless Summer to Universal?

The walk from both Endless Summer Resorts will take on average, 27 – 30 minutes. The time will depend on which hotel you’re staying at and how quickly your party can walk. If you’re staying at Dockside Inn & Suites, you can expect about a 27 min walk. For guests staying at Surfside Inn & Suites, you should plan your walk to take around 30 minutes. Both resorts also offer a free shuttle to the parks which we would recommend if you have little ones.

Is Cabana Bay walking distance to Universal?

Another one of the most popular questions we receive is, is Cabana Bay within walking distance to Universal Orlando? And Cabana Bay Beach resort is three quarters of a mile away from the main two theme parks which are Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. Based on our experiences walking to the parks this is about a 15-20 minute walk. We will say that Cabana Bay is also the closest hotel to the Universal Orlando water park Volcano Bay. 

When Is The Best Time To Visit Universal Orlando?

Our Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar is the best tool to help you get the most out of your time in the parks. We breakdown the park crowds, park hours of operation, ticket prices by day, and average temperature.

Are You Ready to Plan Your Next Universal Orlando Trip?

If you’re ready to plan your trip to Universal Studios, be sure to check out Universal Orlando Tickets! Not only will you save money vs buying direct, but all of our Universal Orlando tickets come with some amazing benefits which can help save you up to three hours in the parks!

And to stay up to date on everything going on inside the theme parks be sure to check out our partners at Themeparktoday.com!