Planning a trip to Universal Orlando and wondering where to stay? With so many great options, choosing the best hotels near Universal Orlando can make a big difference in your vacation experience. Whether you’re looking for luxury, budget-friendly accommodations, or something with over-the-top theming, there’s a Universal hotel that fits your needs.

We’re breaking down the top hotel options by category, including the best for families, adults, convenience, and value, so you can find the perfect place to stay just steps from the parks. Let’s dive into the best Universal Orlando hotels!

Why Stay at a Hotel Near Universal Orlando?

Staying at a hotel near Universal Orlando keeps you close to the parks, letting you save time and money getting from place to place, and spend more time enjoying the parks. Many of Universal Orlando’s hotels are within walking distance of at least one of the theme parks, and they offer complimentary shuttle services if not. But that’s not the only benefit of staying nearby!

Staying on-site also means you can take breaks mid-day without hassle, return for night events, and easily adjust to changes in your plans. This convenience is especially valuable for families and groups wanting a flexible schedule.

And, you’ll have more time in the theme parks too! As a Universal Orlando hotel guest, you’ll be able to take advantage of Early Park Admission, allowing you to get in line (and ride!) the most popular attractions before anyone else. Early park admission even includes access to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, so you can experience the best rides in the parks without having to wait in long lines.

Plus, if you don’t mind spending a little bit extra on your hotel stay, you can get access to even more theme park perks. Anyone staying at Universal’s Premier hotels (except for Helios Grand Hotel) gets a complimentary Express Unlimited Pass for Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. This is a major benefit if you plan on using Universal’s skip-the-line service. You’ll also get access to things like priority restaurant seating, 24-hour room service, and valet parking when you stay at these hotels.

Universal Orlando Hotels by Category

Universal Orlando Resort has eleven on-site hotels that span three hotel categories, ranging from luxurious themed retreats to budget-friendly options. Different hotels provide unique locations, room designs, and amenities, so you can book a stay tailored to your preferences and needs. Here’s an overview of what you can expect at the hotels within each Universal Orlando resort category.

Signature Collection Hotels

The Signature Collection features Universal’s most upscale properties. These five hotels, including Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Royal Pacific Resort, Loews Sapphire Falls Resort, and Helios Grand Hotel, are located closest to the theme parks and Universal CityWalk (with exact distances varying based on where you stay).

When you stay at a resort in the Signature Collection, you can expect spacious rooms (typically starting at around 335 square feet) with upscale décor and immersive theming. For example, you’ll find theming that revolves around the Italian Riviera, rock-and-roll, or South Seas style.

Dining options at these resorts are also extensive. For example, Portofino Bay offers multiple Italian restaurants and charming cafes, Hard Rock Hotel has the famed Palm Restaurant and Velvet Bar, and Royal Pacific includes island-inspired eateries like Jake’s American Bar. You also have access to room service and on-site lounges.

One of the biggest benefits of staying at a Signature Collection hotel, though, is the exclusive perks that make going to the theme parks even better. When you stay at any of these resorts (except the Helios Grand Hotel), you get complimentary Universal Express Unlimited access to skip-the-line at most of the rides, priority seating at select restaurants, early park admission, and water taxi transportation. Pools are resort-style with fun features for the family, and the hotels feature luxury spa services and fitness centers if you’re looking to do even more on your trip.

Prime Value Hotels

Currently, Universal Orlando has three hotels in the Prime Value category, including Universal Aventura Hotel, Universal Stella Nova Resort, and Universal Terra Luna Resort. These hotels are Universal’s mid-tier resort option and offer a themed, comfortable stay with direct shuttle or walking access to the parks.

The rooms are smaller than those at Signature Collection resorts, but larger than those at the Value Inns and Suites. In general, you’ll have about 300-400 square feet to work with, which is usually spacious enough for most families.

Dining at these hotels is designed for convenience and variety. Based on where you stay, you’ll have access to a food court, sit-down restaurant, poolside bars, rooftop bars, and even a Starbucks. And, of course, each hotel has a pool and recreation areas for those who want to spend some time outside of the parks.

While these hotels don’t offer all the luxury extras of the Signature Collection resorts, they each have unique amenities and theming that make them worth staying at if you don’t mind splurging just a little on your hotel stay.

Value Inns and Suites

The Value Inns and Suites category includes Universal Cabana Bay Beach Resort and Universal’s Endless Summer Resort: Surfside Inn and Suites and Dockside Inn and Suites. All three are located a short shuttle ride from the parks and provide a budget-friendly alternative while still immersing you in Universal’s signature theming.

Rooms at the hotels in this category are simple yet colorful, and tend to be smaller than other Universal hotels. However, the unique thing about the hotels in this category is that some offer suites with up to two bedrooms and sleep up to six. So, if you’re traveling with a larger family, these hotels actually might be ideal for you.

When it comes to food, you’ll find a food court dining setup at these hotels, as well as pool bars with light snacks and beverages. While menus are straightforward, they offer familiar favorites, breakfast items, pizza, and grab-and-go selections. Starbucks is also available in the lobby at some of the hotels!

All three hotels also have large resort pools, game rooms, and fitness facilities. So, if you’re looking for a hotel with affordable rates that’s still close to the Universal parks, this is the resort category for you!

Our Picks: The Best Hotels Near Universal Orlando

So, which Universal Orlando hotel is best for you? Here are our top picks for the best hotels near Universal Orlando based on what you’re looking for!

Best Luxury Hotel: Loews Portofino Bay Hotel

While all the hotels in the signature resort collection offer a luxury stay, Loews Portofino Bay Hotel just might be the best. It delivers an upscale experience, inspired by the Italian seaside village of Portofino. The hotel boasts spacious rooms, a beautiful atmosphere, and some of the best amenities, including Early Park Admission and Universal Express Unlimited ride access.

The food at all the on-site restaurants has an Italian flair cuisine and there’s plenty to keep you busy outside the parks too! There’s the Mandara Spa and three themed pools for swimming. And, when you’re ready to hit the parks, you can take boat transportation to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure.

All in all, Loews Portofino Bay Hotel is an ideal option if you value spacious rooms, convenience, and premium benefits.

Pros:

• Universal Express Unlimited passes included
• Spacious rooms and upscale Italian theming
• Multiple pools and a full-service spa

Cons:

• Higher price compared to other Universal hotels
• The property is large, so walks can be long
• Fewer quick service food options

Best for Families: Hard Rock Hotel

When you’re traveling with kids, a well-themed resort can make all the difference in how much fun the kiddos have, and Hard Rock Hotel certainly delivers on that front! Plus, even swimming is cooler here, as the pool features an underwater sound system that plays music that can only be heard when you’re swimming! You also won’t have to worry about long travel times to get to and from the parks, as the hotel has direct walking access to Universal Studios and Universal CityWalk, making it simple to return for breaks.

Rooms are spacious and feature all the amenities you need when you travel with kids. You’ll also get Early Park Admission and Universal Express Unlimited passes with your stay, making your park days easier with kids, too.

Pros:

• Universal Express Unlimited passes included
• Closest walk to Universal Studios Florida
• Pool with slide, underwater sound system, and activities for kids

Cons:

• Rates can be expensive, especially in peak seasons
• The lively atmosphere may not suit all guests
• Limited budget room options

Best Budget Hotel: Endless Summer – Surfside Inn

Endless Summer – Surfside Inn provides the most affordable accommodations in Universal Orlando while still featuring a bright, surf-themed décor. This value hotel offers basic amenities, clean rooms, and a casual vibe that doesn’t necessarily wow, but definitely does the job. There’s a large pool, food court, and complimentary shuttle service to the parks.

Suites with kitchenettes are available, giving families more flexibility. And, while the location is slightly farther from the parks, regularly running shuttles make travel easy. So, if you want a nice place to stay near Universal Orlando without all the luxury extras, this is the place to book!

Pros:

• Budget-friendly rates and family suites
• Free shuttle to all three Universal parks
• Fun, modern design

Cons:

• No Universal Express pass included
• Location is farther from the theme parks
• Fewer on-site dining options

Closest to Epic Universe: Helios Grand Hotel

Helios Grand Hotel is brand new in 2025 and is the best on-site property if you’re planning to spend most of your visit at the new Epic Universe theme park. This upscale hotel is designed for direct park access (featuring its very own park entrance!) and offers more luxurious accommodations than any other hotel near Universal’s newest park.

The hotel includes a pool, several dining options, and exclusive benefits for Epic Universe specifically. So, if being as close as possible to the new park is your top priority, this is the ideal choice for easy, walkable access. Just keep in mind that guests staying here do not get Universal Express Passes included in their stay.

Pros:

• Closest location to Universal’s Epic Universe
• Luxury amenities and brand new
• Exclusive park entrance to Epic Universe

Cons:

• Shuttle ride away from Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure
• The price may be higher than off-site options

Best for Adults/Couples: Loews Royal Pacific Resort

Loews Royal Pacific Resort blends South Pacific ambiance with modern comfort, creating a more romantic and adult-oriented atmosphere that’s ideal for an adults-only or couples trip. The hotel is designed for those who want to spend time outside of the parks relaxing and includes a lagoon-style pool and multiple bars.

When you stay here, you’ll still get the best theme park perks included in your stay, like Early Park Admission and Universal Express Unlimited ride access, making park days easier. The on-site dining ranges from quick service to full-service Asian-inspired restaurants, so you’ll never go hungry. And, boat service puts Universal Studios and CityWalk within quick reach.

Pros:

• Universal Express Unlimited passes included
• Boat service to Universal Studios and CityWalk
• Good restaurant and lounge options

Cons:

• Popular and can be crowded during peak times
• Not adults-only; families and kids are present
• Mid-range pricing (not the cheapest)

Best Themed Hotel: Universal Stella Nova Resort

Universal Stella Nova Resort opened in 2025 at Universal Orlando and stands out for its cosmic, space-themed décor. When you stay here, you’ll be treated to vibrant colors, galaxy-inspired touches, and playful artwork that truly immerses you in an out-of-this-world experience. The rooms are designed to bring you into a futuristic setting with family-friendly features.

Amenities include a large pool, fitness center, and dining options that maintain the playful intergalactic theme. This hotel is a unique pick if you love immersive, themed resorts and want to stay somewhere truly distinctive. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that it’s so new!

Pros:

• Unique space theming
• Family-friendly and fun atmosphere
• New rooms with immersive decorations

Cons:

• Themed design may not appeal to everyone
• No Universal Express pass included
• Slightly farther from the parks than some hotels

Best for Water Park Access: Universal Aventura Hotel (closest to Volcano Bay)

Universal Aventura Hotel is the most convenient choice if you plan to spend a lot of time at Volcano Bay–especially if you’re visiting Universal Orlando in the summer. A dedicated walking path allows you to get to and from the water park quickly.

Inside, the hotel boasts a rooftop bar with impressive views, and the resort’s pool, quick service dining options, and fitness center make even hanging out at the hotel nice. Pricing is mid-level compared to the other hotels near Universal Orlando, and you get the benefit of being steps from Universal’s water park for easy access all day.

Pros:

• Closest hotel to Volcano Bay (has a dedicated walking path)
• Rooftop bar with views of Universal and the greater Orlando area
• Affordable rates for an on-site Universal hotel

Cons:

• Rooms are smaller compared to other Universal properties
• No Universal Express pass included
• Not best for large families (fewer suites)

Comments

What do you think are the best hotels near Universal Orlando? Let us know where you always stay when you visit in the comments!