This is your complete guide to the Best Universal Studios Hotel! Our top pick for the best Universal Orlando Resort hotel is Loewe’s Portofino Bay Resort. But we also think that every Universal hotel has its pros and cons and you should pick the best-fit hotel for you! No matter if you’re looking to stay somewhere that offers a Free Express Pass for every guest. Or one within walking distance of Volcano Bay – we’ve got you covered! We consider ourselves experts at staying at hotels on Universal property and can’t wait to share our insights with you in this article.
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 our discounted multi-day Universal Orlando tickets and Universal Orlando vacation package deals which include EARLY PARK ADMISSION to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!
SPECIAL NOTE: If you’re looking for the best time to book a Universal Orlando vacation be sure to check out our crowd calendar below!
Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar
The very best hotels near Universal Studios Orlando Resort are Portofino Bay, and Hard Rock Hotel simply because of their proximity to the parks. However, the best hotels closest to Universal Studios Orlando are the 8 official Universal Orlando Resort hotels. Universal Orlando puts its resorts into four different categories, Premier, Preferred, Prime Value, and Value. Let’s take a quick peek to see what category the current Universal resorts fall into.
Guests looking to get an idea of the current prices to stay at a Universal Orlando hotel can check them out on our Universal Orlando vacation package page!
Related Post: Guide to Hotels Near Universal Studios Orlando with Free Shuttle
As you can see, we are big fans of the Premier hotels and think they are the best Universal hotels for 2024. We love that you get incredible perks at these best hotels at Universal, which we are going to talk about next.
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We truly see the benefits of each resort, so let’s review them from least to most expensive! This way, you can decide which is the best resort at Universal Studios for you. First, we have Universal Value Resorts. There are two hotels to choose from when comparing the best value resorts in Orlando. The two value resorts are Endless Summer Resort Surfside Inn and Suites and Endless Summer Resort Dockside Inn and Suites.
Surfside Inn and Suites is the smaller of the two sister resorts and we love its look! This resort is decorated with a laid-back beachside vibe and plenty of surfboards for a photo-op. This hotel is perfect for the family on a budget. With bright, open rooms starting at only $96 a night (and family suites starting at $136 a night), you’ll be able to spend your money on other things – like wands from the Wizarding World of Harry Potter or an extra night stay or two.
This resort is considered one of the best hotels near Universal Orlando and is located on the opposite side of Interstate 4. A quick bus ride will take families to the hub of CityWalk for access to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. Another bus will take guests directly to Volcano Bay. For non-park fun, dive into the surfboard-shaped pool, play a few games in the game room, or work out in the fitness area. If you’re looking for the best place to stay near Universal Orlando, this resort offers convenient access and enjoyable amenities.
Dockside Inn and Suites is the largest of the two value resorts. Like Surfside Inn, its rooms are value-priced to make sure you get the best deal for your dollar. There are many different room options for whatever your party needs are. Prices range from $91 for a standard double queen room to $147 for a double queen suite with a pool view.
Inspired by sand, sea, and beautiful sunsets, this resort will make any family feel like they’re staying at a coastal hotel that has a theme park across the street! Amenities include a pool and splash area for the kids, with a beach bar and lounge for the adults wanting to unwind.
Related Post: Check Out Pricing for the Dockside Inn and Suites
Want to see a review of Universal Endless Summer Dockside Inn and Suites? Be sure to check out our complete room review to one of the best value resorts at Universal below!
If you’re looking for the best hotels in Universal Studios Orlando for travelers on a budget (or travelers who only need a place to sleep after being in the parks all day), either one of these will fit those requirements.
Universal has two fan favorites to choose from when comparing the best prime-value resorts for your next Orlando vacation!
Cabana Bay Beach Resort is a favorite among many with its incredible theming and great pricing. Everywhere you look, you’ll see retro and iconic décor brought into modern-day conveniences. Here, standard rooms start at $140 a night (or $172 for a family suite) and are decorated to look like classic resorts from another time, but with modern amenities such as plenty of USB ports and flat-screen TVs.
This resort, known as one of the best resorts at Universal Orlando, has a lot of great food options, too. From a classic diner to a bar and grill as well as a lounge, you’re sure to be able to belly up to some good, hearty delicious food. If you’re looking for a fun stay-at-the-resort day, you’ll love either soaking it all up outside at the Cabana Pool and Lazy River in a rented cabana or lacing up your bowling shoes for a fun round of bowling inside. As one of the best Universal Orlando hotels, this resort offers a perfect blend of dining and entertainment options for a memorable vacation experience
Related Post: Check Out Pricing for the Universal Cabana Bay Beach Resort
Aventura Resort is one of Universal’s newer resorts. This stylish and modern resort is a favorite for couples and families on a budget. Of all of the Universal Studios onsite resorts, this one boasts clean and simple décor, meant to help you relax while taking a break from the parks. Its rooms provide amazing sweeping views of all three parks and provide plenty of room to move around. Starting at just $140 a night, it fits into most budgets. It also has a fun kids suite with bunk beds starting at $232 a night and what kid wouldn’t love sleeping in a bunk bed while on vacation?
The “high” light of this resort, recognized as one of the best Universal Studio hotels, is its spectacular rooftop bistro. This unique dining experience offers commanding views of all three parks, allowing guests to take in the breathtaking scenery while enjoying gourmet cuisine. Whether you’re watching the sunset over the parks or gazing at the twinkling lights at night, the rooftop bistro provides an unforgettable ambiance that sets this resort apart as one of the best Universal resorts.
Related Post: Check Out Pricing for the Aventura Resort
What is the Best Preferred Resort on Universal Property 2024?
Loews Sapphire Falls Resort is a great mid-range resort offering a few extra amenities while not breaking the bank. Inspired by the islands, you’ll find yourself walking by waterfalls and palm trees while listening to steel drums as you stroll around. You’ll feel like you’re in an island paradise. Rooms start at $210 a night.
One of the great perks of Loews Sapphire Falls Resorts, considered one of the best hotels at Universal Orlando, is the water taxi available to and from CityWalk. This convenient transportation option adds to the resort’s appeal, making it a top choice for those seeking the best hotel at Universal Studios. In addition to the water taxi, this resort also has incredible food options, including the well-reviewed and fan-favorite, Strong Water Tavern.
Whether you’re a food connoisseur or simply looking for a satisfying meal, the dining experience here adds to its reputation as one of the best hotels in Universal Orlando. Hang out at the tavern while the kids enjoy the 16,000-square-foot pool with sand beaches, a water slide, and a children’s play area. With these amenities, Loews Sapphire Falls stands out as a premier destination for families and travelers seeking the best hotel experience near Universal Studios.
With its reasonable price and fun amenities, many families consider this the best hotel to stay at in Universal Studios Orlando for families.
Related Post: Check Out Pricing for the Loews Sapphire Falls Resort
Before we dive into each resort that falls in the Universal deluxe hotels category, let’s talk about the main reason your travel party may want to reserve your perfect vacation stay at one of these resorts. Guests who stay at these premier resorts receive two incredible perks that other resort guests do not receive with their stay.
Now that you know that incredible information, let’s look at each premier resort choice.
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Loews Royal Pacific Resort is ready to take you away to a Polynesian paradise. Its incredible lagoon-style pool is just one of the benefits of staying at Loews Royal Pacific. Whether you’re relaxing in your cabana with a tropical drink or playing in the interactive water area, you might forget about going to the parks. With kids camps and a torch lighting ceremony, there’s always something fun going on making it one of the best Universal Studios resort hotels.
Rooms at this resort, recognized as one of the best hotels in Universal Orlando, start at $325 and have beautiful garden views. This competitive pricing and scenic accommodation make it a top choice for travelers seeking the best hotel Universal has to offer. When you’re ready to have a meal or enjoy a drink, you’ll find a wide array of options that further enhance its reputation as one of Universal Studios’ best hotels. From American fare to Pan Asian food and even a sushi bar, the culinary diversity caters to all tastes and preferences.
Whether you’re a food enthusiast or simply looking for a comfortable and luxurious stay, this resort stands out as a premier destination, solidifying its status as one of the best hotels in Universal Orlando.
Related Post: Check Out Pricing for the Loews Royal Pacific Resort
The Hard Rock Hotel is the most popular kid in his class. With its edgy, music-driven décor, anyone who’s anyone will want to stay at this resort. Where else in the world can you sit in the same loveseat as John Lennon or see the booth where Elvis recorded his first song? Rooms are spacious and begin at $372 a night, not too bad for a rock star! As a guest, you can even request having a guitar sent to your room to jam the night away making it one of the best Universal Studios resort hotels.
For families with tweens to young adults wondering which hotel at Universal Orlando is best, they might decide this one tops their list with music memorabilia on display throughout the resort as well as the ability to listen to music even when under the water in its 12,000 square foot pool.
If you’re looking to book the Hard Rock resort be sure to take advantage of our current promotion for anyone who books a 2-night or more Universal Orlando vacation package for any time in 2024! Simply check out all available hotels on our Universal Orlando package page and use promo code Magic50 at checkout for an additional $50.00 off our discounted pages!
Related Post: Discount Universal Orlando Vacation Packages
The Loews Portofino Bay Resort will take your breath away. This expansive resort, designed to make you feel like you’ve traveled abroad to Portofino, Italy, with its outdoor cafes, cobblestone streets, and shops along the harbor, will charm its way into your heart. This resort has the most pools, the most restaurants, and the most shopping venues so if you stay here, you’ll want to allot the time to explore all the different areas and amenities.
Rooms begin at $388 a night, with the ability to upgrade to Club Level or Suites. And these rooms are like no other. Standard rooms have 450 square feet making them some of the largest rooms on the property and come with pillow-top beds. This resort is great for families seeking an upscale, luxury place to stay while on their Universal Studios Vacation.
Related Post: Check Out Pricing for the Loews Portofino Bay Resort
Rates start at $325.00 per night
Transportation: Boat, Shuttle, walkway
Rates start at $388.00 per night
Transportation: Boat, shuttle, walkway
Rates start at $372.00 per night
Transportation: Boat, shuttle, walkway
Rates start at $210.00 per night
Transportation: Boat, shuttle, walkway
Rates start at $140.00 per night
Transportation: Shuttle
Rates start at $140.00 per night
Transportation: Shuttle
Rates start at $96.00 per night
Transportation: Shuttle
We truly believe all Universal Studios on-site hotels have great reasons that they may be the best Universal Resort hotels. If you’re still having trouble deciding which is the best hotel to stay at Universal Orlando, let us know. We’d be happy to help you make the best choice for you!
Related Post: 14 Hotels Within Walking Distance Of Universal Studios Orlando (30 Mins Or Less!)
Before we break down the best reasons to stay at each of these resorts, let’s look at some important perks that apply to all of the Universal on-site hotels. And there’s a LOT of perks to even the most affordable Universal Resort. Typically, we’ve found that onsite hotels at Universal tend to be a little bit more expensive than staying at surrounding hotels. We find that to be okay because the amenities at the best hotels at Universal Orlando make it worth it. There is nothing like Early Park Admission and free transportation around the Universal Parks.
Another common question we receive is, which Universal Orlando Resort hotel offers free express passes? And, there are three Universal Orlando hotels as of 2024 which still include the Unlimited Universal express passes for free. Those hotels are the Hard Rock, Loews Portofino Bay Resort, and Loews Royal Pacific Resort.
From our experience helping our clients book discount Universal vacation packages Loews Royal Pacific Resort stands out as the best Universal Orlando hotel offering free Express Passes. The main reason is that it is typically the cheapest of the three Universal Orlando premiere hotels. In addition to the price value that it provides, Loews Royal Pacific Resort provides a range of exceptional amenities, such as a lagoon-style pool, various dining options, and convenient water taxi transportation to the theme parks.
The best part is right now The Park Prodigy is running a promotion for anyone who books a 2-night or more Universal Orlando vacation package for any time in 2024! Simply check out all available hotels on our Universal Studios Resort Hotel package page and use promo code Magic50 at checkout for an additional $50.00 off our discounted packages!
Related Post: Discount Universal Orlando Vacation Packages
A: Another popular question we receive when trying to help families pick the best Universal hotel is, what is the most luxurious hotel at Universal Studios Orlando? We do find the Loews Portofino Bay resort to be the most luxurious hotel at Universal Orlando. One of the main reasons is the high-end rooms, which are very modern and sleek. We also find as a general rule of thumb we would suggest that any hotel that offers the free Universal Express Passes will be considered the most luxurious.
You can also check out our complete guide to the best luxury hotels near Universal 2024.
A: The best hotel for Universal Orlando is Portofino Bay, which is their signature hotel. Of course, any hotel at Universal offers free transportation and Early Park Admission, but Portofino Bay has the nicest accommodations, amenities, and recreation and offers a free express pass!
A: Three on-site Universal Orlando hotels offer complimentary Express Passes: Royal Pacific Resort, Hard Rock Hotel, and Portofino Bay Hotel.
A: All of the on-site resorts are super close, but Royal Pacific is the closest – at least to Islands of Adventure. The hotel offers rooms that look out directly to Islands of Adventure, and on average it takes less time to walk there from this specific resort.
Our Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar is the best tool to help you get the most out of your time in the parks. We break down the park crowds, park hours of operation, ticket prices by day, and average temperature.
If you’re ready to plan your trip to Universal Studios, be sure to check out our Universal Orlando Tickets! All guests who purchase their tickets from The Park Prodigy will get Early Park Admission to Universal Orlando! This could save you a ton of time in the parks and avoid buying express passes!
And to stay up to date on everything going on inside the theme parks be sure to check out our partners at Themeparktoday.com!