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Universal Orlando Resort Hotels: How do you choose?

So now that you’ve decided to stay at Universal, you need to decide where to lay your head at night. The ultimate Universal Orlando vacation begins at one of the spectacular on-site hotels. There’s one for every vacation style and budget, with thoughtfully designed rooms and suites. Guests choose from Universal’s one-of-a-kind portfolio of hotels in three categories:

- Premier hotels promise beautiful escapes, distinguished service, spacious accommodations, unique experiences and more.
- Preferred hotels offer relaxing getaways with the perfect blend of resort conveniences and amenities.
- Prime value hotels are stylish resorts with rooms and suites designed for fun and affordability.

Universal Orlando’s on-site hotel guests enjoy complimentary transportation from hotels to all three Universal theme parks and CityWalk. Plus, onsite hotels are a stroll away from both theme parks via paved, well-lit walkways.

This is a quick overview of a few of the most popular resort amenities. You’ll notice that all resorts offer early admission to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Volcano Bay, complimentary transportation, room charging privileges, access to select venues at CityWalk, and package delivery. Staying at Royal Pacific, Hard Rock and Portofino Bay offers the added benefit of the Unlimited Universal Express Pass, which gives you priority access with shorter waits at many in-park attractions, as well as priority seating at select dining locations throughout the resort. The Unlimited Express Pass is a minimum value of $89 per person, per day and can greatly enhance your in-park experience.



Universal's Aventura Hotel Photo via Loews Hotels

Universal’s Aventura Hotel, opening in August, is the modern and stylish place to stay. This new 600-room property offers views of all three Universal theme parks, features a variety of innovative high-tech amenities, and has a design that is vibrant, free-flowing and relaxing. Food and beverage outlets will include a market-style food court, bar, Starbuck’s, and a rooftop bar and grill that is certain to be a destination in itself. And the property would not be complete without a pool area that will take you away from the hectic pace of the parks.


Cabana Bay Beach Resort Photo via Loews Hotels

Cabana Bay Beach Resort is one of the most fun and affordable ways to enjoy the Universal Orlando Resort. The 1950s and 60s themed resort features family suites that include a kitchenette and extra bathroom space, plus sleep areas to accommodate up to six guests. The best room views on all of Universal property are located here and offer an incredible view of Volcano Bay. You can relax at two massive pools that include a lazy river and a water slide. On days that aren’t conducive to being at the pool, you can bowl a few matches at the 10-lane Galaxy Bowling Alley. Starbuck’s, pizza delivery to your room, and a well appointed food court offer an array of taste-tempting options.


Loews Sapphire Falls Resort Photo via Loews Hotels

Loews Sapphire Falls Resort is a breathtaking property that brings Caribbean-inspired relaxation and a tropical feel to the Universal Orlando Resort. From the minute you walk into the lobby, you will feel like you’ve been transported to the islands. The resort offers a variety of dining options - full service restaurants, grab-and-go, and lounges. You won’t want to miss the weekly Caribbean Carnival dinner show featuring authentic food, music and dance from the islands. The pool area is a divine place to relax when you are taking a break from the parks.


Loews Royal Pacific Resort Photo via Loews Hotels

Loews Royal Pacific Resort is the perfect location to kick back and discover lush landscaping, native carvings, and a huge white sand beach to make you feel as if you’ve sailed away to the enchanted islands of the South Seas. A great way to enhance your stay at this resort is to upgrade to a Club Level room, where you can enjoy access to a club lounge that features complimentary coffee, tea and soft drinks throughout the day; continental breakfast each morning; daily snacks each afternoon; and hors d’oeuvres, desserts and a selection of beer and wine each evening. Jurassic Park themed kids’ suites are a must for the dinosaur lover in your family. A variety of food options await, including a character breakfast and the weekly Wantilan Luau. The lagoon-style pool, complete with the Royal Bali Sea interactive play area, is perfect for some family down time.


Universal Orlando Hard Rock Hotel Photo via Hard Rock

Hard Rock Hotel is the perfect mix of funk and fun. You’ll feel like you just stepped off the stage, surrounded by the music, style and attitude of the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle. If you are looking for an exceptional dining experience, Hard Rock is home to The Palm Restaurant. For a more laid back dining experience, there are other offerings including The Kitchen, an ice cream shop, and The Velvet Bar. The lively pool area features a sand beach, volleyball court, water slide, and underwater music. Club level rooms and services are offered at Hard Rock, as well as kids’ suites.


Loews Portofino Bay Hotel Photo via Loews Hotels

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel will allow you to experience la dolce vita - the sweet life - right in the heart of Orlando. This stunning resort is a re-creation of the famed seaside resort town of Portofino, Italy, authentic down to the cobblestone streets and sidewalk cafes. You can enjoy spacious guest rooms, including Despicable Me kids’ suites and club level rooms. Three themed pools, nightly music on the piazza, and authentic Italian dining experiences will make you think you’ve landed in Italy instead of Orlando.

So what are you waiting for? From Italy to the South Pacific to the Caribbean and more, the Resorts at Universal Orlando can take you on a journey without even setting foot into a theme park. Close proximity to the parks and ease of transportation between parks and resorts give you more ride time, more free time, and more family time so that you can maximize your Universal Orlando vacation experience. And the team at On The Road Travel is here to guide you through every detail of your Universal Orlando vacation.

To start planning your trip to Universal Orlando, contact to your On The Road Travel agent via our website, Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram!

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