The Best Places To Stay in Orlando, Florida, for Your Universal Studios Vacation

Where you stay for your Universal Orlando Resort vacation can enhance your visit with convenience, perks, and fun. Whether you’re seeking an on-site stay with exclusive perks or prefer low nightly rates, Orlando has many places to stay near Universal Orlando.

Staying at Universal’s Loews-operated hotels puts you closest to the action at the parks, often within walking distance of theme parks and CityWalk. Nearby properties along International Drive and Universal Boulevard may cost less and have perks such as kitchens and free breakfast.

Read this guide to learn about the best hotels near Universal Orlando, whether you want top-of-the-line resorts with Express Pass perks, roomy family suites, or budget-friendly hotels with free shuttles. We break down Universal hotel benefits, properties in each tier of Universal hotels, and how to choose the right property for your travel style.

On-Site vs. Off-Site Hotels Near Universal Orlando

Before you choose a specific hotel, you should understand the difference between on-site properties at Universal Orlando and the many off-site hotels near the resort. You can benefit from either option, depending on your travel style, priorities, and budget.

Orlando offers lodging from budget-friendly motels to 5-star resorts, condo rentals, and RV parks. You can find hotels with elaborate pools and simple suites designed for families. Deciding on lodging for Universal Orlando may come down to how close you want to be to the parks and which perks matter most.

Universal’s on-site hotels, operated by Loews, offer Universal-specific perks that can save you time, money, and hassle:

• Universal Express Unlimited pass at Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure (for guests of Signature Collection resorts)
• Early park admission for select attractions
• Complimentary shuttle bus and water taxi transportation to the parks
• Walking distance to CityWalk and theme parks at select resorts
• Complimentary merchandise delivery to your room
• Park purchases are chargeable to your room with the room key
• Priority seating at Universal Orlando restaurants for guests of select Signature Collection hotels

Universal Orlando hotels generally cost more than off-site properties, but the convenience and perks may offset the price, especially if you’d otherwise buy the Universal Express Unlimited pass.

Off-site hotels around International Drive and Universal Boulevard may cost significantly less than on-site Universal Orlando hotels, and often offer additional space, complimentary parking, or complimentary breakfast. Many have free shuttles to Universal or are close enough that ride-sharing is an efficient and inexpensive option.

If you’d like a condo-style stay with a kitchen and laundry, a vacation rental or vacation club properties from Marriott, Hyatt, or Hilton can be a smart alternative. The savings on meals and resort fees can add up if you’re taking a long trip or visiting with a large group.

Bottom Line:

Choose on-site Universal Orlando hotels for the best perks and park-to-pillow proximity. Pick off-site properties for flexibility at a lower nightly rate.

Universal Orlando Hotels

Universal Orlando has numerous on-site hotels operated by Loews Hotels with varying themes, price points, and perks. Stay on site and you can get early park admission to select attractions and complimentary transportation to the parks. Some properties include Universal Express Unlimited passes, which can save you hours in line and potentially hundreds of dollars.

Let’s examine the categories of Universal Orlando hotels and what you can expect from each on-site property.

Signature Collection Hotels

At Universal Orlando Signature Collection hotels, you get the full Universal experience with deluxe amenities, walking-distance convenience, and Universal Express Unlimited passes. The passes alone typically cost $120 or more per person per day, so staying in one of these hotels could be worth more than $475 per day for a family of 4.

Universal Helios Grand Hotel

Inside of Epic Universe, Universal Helios Grand Hotel is in a prime location for exploring Universal Orlando’s newest park. There’s a dedicated entrance for hotel guests and Bar Helios, a striking rooftop bar with 360-degree views of the park.

Rates start around $600 per night.

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel is an Italian seaside-themed destination featuring multiple pool areas, including a Roman aqueduct-themed waterslide and Italian dining options. With complimentary park transportation and walking paths, it’s easy to take a midday break from the parks.

Rates start around $750 per night.

Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando

The Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando features the brand’s signature music-inspired style, along with Universal access. Think themed rooms, rock memorabilia, and a pool with underwater music. This is the closest hotel to the theme parks, with just a 5-minute walk to Universal Studios Florida.

Rates start around $600 per night.

Loews Royal Pacific Resort

At Loews Royal Pacific Resort, you’ll find a South Seas island vibe with a lagoon-style pool, white sand beach, and tropical dining. Family favorites at this resort are character breakfasts and evening luau performances.

Rates start around $500 per night.

Prime Value Hotels

Universal’s Prime Value hotel tier is the sweet spot for those seeking a more affordable Universal resort stay, offering good perks, including early park admission and complimentary park transportation.

Universal Stella Nova Resort

Universal Stella Nova Resort is a space-themed hotel with a modern design and walkable access to Epic Universe. It’s a good option if you want to be close to the park but don’t want to pay Grand Helios prices.

Rates start around $175 per night.

Universal Terra Luna Resort

Universal Terra Luna Resort has a futuristic design and modern amenities with a location adjacent to Epic Universe. Like Universal Stella Nova Resort, this hotel offers good value for those seeking affordability with convenience access to Epic Universe.

Rates start around $175 per night.

Loews Sapphire Falls Resort

Loews Sapphire Falls Resort is Caribbean-inspired with waterfalls and steel drums. The pool features a real sand beach, and the resort is walkable to Universal Volcano Bay.

Rates start around $300 per night.

Universal Aventura Hotel

Consider Universal Aventura Hotel for a quieter and more contemporary vibe than Universal Cabana Bay Beach Resort. It’s great if you prefer a minimalist feel but want great views of the parks, a relaxing pool, and rooms with smart technology for entertainment and lighting.

Rates start around $175 per night.

Value Inns and Suites

Balance price and perks while staying on-site for a low price. Universal’s Value Inns and Suites are among the best budget hotels near Universal Studios Orlando, making them excellent choices for families seeking the lowest on-site rates with direct park access and early entry perks.

Universal Cabana Bay Beach Resort

Universal Cabana Bay Beach Resort has retro beach styling with modern amenities, including massive pools, a lazy river, and a bowling alley. You can walk to Volcano Bay or take a free shuttle to the parks. Family suites can accommodate up to 6 guests and offer a kitchenette, making this one of the best family hotels near Universal Studios Orlando.

Rates start around $125 per night.

Universal Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites

A laid-back, surf-themed property, Surfside Inn and Suites has a surfboard-shaped pool, casual food court, and an arcade with a family-friendly vibe.

Rates start around $150 per night.

Universal Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites

With 2-bedroom suites that accommodate up to 6 guests, Dockside Inn and Suites is a favorite among large families. There are 2 large pools, a splash pad, and scheduled poolside activities such as bingo and hula-hoop contests.

Rates start around $140 per night.

Off-Site Hotels Near Universal Orlando

There are dozens of excellent off-site hotels within a mile or so of Universal Orlando Resort. You can expect free shuttles and family-friendly amenities, often for less than you’d pay at an on-site Universal hotel. You can also get easy access to restaurants and stores along International Drive, while the parks are a short ride away.

Hyatt House Across From Universal Orlando Resort

One mile from Universal, the Hyatt House, located across from Universal Orlando Resort, is ideal for families seeking apartment-style rooms with hotel amenities. Rooms typically feature kitchenettes and separate sitting areas, and guests get free hot breakfasts. You can walk to Universal from the hotel or ride the complimentary shuttle.

Rates start around $125 per night or 15,000 World of Hyatt points.

Residence Inn by Marriott Near Universal Orlando

Expect spacious suites, full kitchens, and free breakfast at Residence Inn by Marriott Near Universal Orlando. This extended stay hotel is a favorite of families and groups, with free parking, a relaxing pool, and shuttles to Universal and SeaWorld.

Rates start around $150 per night or 39,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.

Hotel Landy Orlando Universal Boulevard

The Hotel Landy Orlando Universal Boulevard has a prime location along International Drive that’s minutes from Universal Orlando, ICON Park, and numerous restaurants and attractions. The hotel features modern decor, complimentary shuttles to Universal Studios, Magic Kingdom, and EPCOT, and a large outdoor pool with a sundeck.

Rates start around $125 per night or 28,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.

Booking Universal Orlando Hotels With Points

Universal’s Loews hotels can’t be booked directly with points, but credit card travel portals such as Chase Travel, AmexTravel.com, and Capital One Travel may have Universal on-site properties available to book with points or miles.

Many off-site hotels near Universal Orlando participate in major loyalty programs, such as World of Hyatt, Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, and IHG One Rewards, so it’s easy to use your rewards for a free stay.

Hot Tip:

See our guide to visiting Universal Studios for cheap using points and miles to learn about using hotel points for stays and redeeming rewards for flights and park tickets.

How To Choose the Right Universal Hotel

Where to stay near Universal Orlando depends on your group size, travel style, and park plans. Here’s how you can narrow down your choices.

Families

The amenities at Cabana Bay Beach Resort, Dockside Inn and Suites, and Hyatt House can offer families space and amenities. Suites that can accommodate large families with kitchenettes and quick shuttle service can make park mornings easy, and on-site pools are refreshing after long days at the parks.

If Epic Universe is at the top of your Universal to-do list, consider Universal Stella Nova Resort or Universal Terra Luna Resort, which offer walkable access to the park.

Couples and Adults

Couples, solo travelers, and friend groups may prioritize relaxation and resort atmosphere, making Sapphire Falls Resort or Aventura Hotel a good choice for a quiet and contemporary environment. You can enjoy rooftop cocktails or relax in a lagoon-style pool before dinner.

Planning a visit to Epic Universe? Universal Helios Grand Hotel has a guest-only entrance to the park and features Bar Helios with a great rooftop view.

Luxury Seekers

If your idea of a dream Universal vacation includes skipping lines, it may be worth paying a premium to stay at Helios Grand Hotel, Portofino Bay, Hard Rock Hotel, or Royal Pacific Resort. All of these hotels are within walking distance or a short water taxi ride to the parks, and every guest gets a Universal Express Unlimited pass that typically costs $120 or more per person, a benefit that can greatly offset the nightly rate.

Budget Travelers

If you’re mainly looking for clean and comfortable hotel rooms close to Universal Orlando, consider Surfside Inn and Suites, Dockside Inn and Suites, or nearby off-site options such as Hyatt House across from Universal Orlando Resort, Residence Inn by Marriott Near Universal Orlando, or Hotel Landy Orlando Universal Boulevard. Any of these can offer you convenience and comfort for under $200 per night.

Final Thoughts

With the new Epic Universe, Universal Orlando is more exciting than ever, and a great hotel can get you right where the action is. Expect convenience, exclusive perks, and immersive theming from on-site properties. You can stretch your budget at off-site hotels without sacrificing comfort.

Whether you want to unwind at the Portofino Bay pool or walk from the Hyatt House to CityWalk, there’s a Universal-area hotel that can enhance your vacation.