Our Favorite Universal Studios Resorts!
If you’re going to be visiting Universal Studios in Orlando soon, then you’re going to need a place to stay. There are many places available in the area, and to get you started, we’ve compiled a list of our favorite Universal Studios resorts:
Portofino Bay Hotel
Modeled after the Italian Riviera seaside village, this amazing hotel is as close as you can get to Italy without actually being there! There are so many amenities that it might be impossible to enjoy them all in a single visit. You can start with the fact that it has three swimming pools, luxury rooms that each have its own Keurig coffee maker, multiple restaurants, and a spa for massages, facials, and body treatments. There’s also a Resort Kids Camp to help couples have a quiet time alone.
Cabana Bay Beach Resort
Go back in time to the 1950s and ’60s with this incredible resort fashioned after the classic Florida hotels of yore. This is one of those resorts that are really aimed at giving families something to do when they’re not enjoying Universal Studios.
In addition to two swimming pools – one with a water slide and the other with a winding river – you can enjoy a video arcade, bowling alley, fitness center, and more. If you’re looking for something to eat, check out the Atomic Tonic poolside grill or the Bayliner Diner food court.
Royal Pacific Resort
Easily one of the most luxurious locations in all of Orlando, the Royal Pacific Resort is a sight to behold. You can start with the amazingly gorgeous swimming pool that features dive-in movies at night where feature films are projected onto a large screen.
Each of the upscale rooms are magnificently designed and you can feel free to order from the wonderful in-room menu or head downstairs to the club lounge for a bite to eat. Each week, you’ll even be treated to Wantilan Luau featuring hula and fire dancers.
Sapphire Falls Resort
This nearly brand new resort has a full-on island theme complete with blue cascading waterfalls. If you want to take a dip, you’ll have access to an expansive tropical pool that features gardens, slides, and cabanas that are perfect for families of all sizes. Some of its favorite attractions include the Caribbean Carnival Dinner Show and the Strong Water Tavern. Don’t forget the Amatista Cookhouse, which features Caribbean cuisine, burgers, and flatbreads that are to die for.
Aventura Hotel
Modeled after the modern high-rise Miami skyscrapers, this hotel is as sleek as it is awesome. In addition to a swimming pool and splash zone for kids, you’ll find all types of things to eat at their food court-style Urban Pantry restaurant and – as you might expect – a Starbucks on the lobby level.
Despite the skyscraper look, the hotel itself is actually quite small, featuring short hallways that are perfect for those with mobility issues. The rooms have a simplified style that favors “function over fancy” and it’s only a five-minute walk to Volcano Bay and other locations.
Endless Summer Resort
This resort is considered to be a value hotel, but you certainly wouldn’t know to look at it. Here you’ll find a laid-back surf vibe where the rooms are inspired by a beach decor. The standard rooms come with two queen beds, a 46-inch high-definition TV, and a mini-fridge.
If you need something larger, the suites feature two bedrooms with enough space for six people, a kitchenette, and dining area. Venture outside and you’ll find a surfboard-shaped pool and family activities such as ping pong and Connect Four. Or you can head over to the Beach Break Cafe with reasonably priced food and then either wind down at the video arcade or burn off calories at the fitness center.
Hard Rock Hotel
This recognizable property celebrates rock music in all its glory. Just minutes away from all types of restaurants, bars, and entertainment hot spots located at Universal CityWalk, this hotel includes food of its very own including The Kitchen, Palm Restaurant steakhouse, and Velvet Bar.
While you’re there, be sure to check out the music memorabilia including the real-life booth where Elvis Presley recorded his first song and a loveseat where John Lennon penned many of his favorite tunes.
How to Choose a Universal Studio Resort
As you can see, there are some wonderful Universal Studios resorts available. Here are a few details that you may want to consider when choosing where to stay:
Budget
The most obvious detail that you’ll need to figure out when hunting around for a hotel is the price. The on-site hotels found at Universal Studios range from low-end to very high-end, so you need to take that into account. Also, keep in mind that although these are our favorites, there are plenty of very nice, affordable hotels in the area that will give you a good night’s sleep while saving you money.
Location
The next thing you want to decide is how far away from Universal Studios you would like to stay. Luckily, you have tons of choices because even those that aren’t right next to the theme park have services that will get you there within minutes. If you have plans in town aside from the park, you may want to stay somewhere a little more central to your planned activities.
Amenities
Many couples and families make their decision on where to stay based on a hotel’s amenities. As you can see from this list of favorite Universal Studios resorts, there are a wide variety of standard and special amenities available. Whether it’s amenities found in the room, concierge service, special features, or delicious food, you’ll definitely be able to focus on what’s important.
Contact World Class VIP to Discuss Universal Studios Resorts
The Disney VIP tour guides at World Class VIP can make your next trip to an Orlando theme park the best it can possibly be. If you have any questions about our Universal VIP tours or questions about Universal Studios resorts, give us a call at (407) 270-3784 today and we’ll explain our VIP experience in detail. You can book your tour with a free quote as well!