The Ultimate Guide to On-Site Hotels at Universal Orlando Resort (2025)

If you’re a fan of Universal Studios theme parks, then you’re likely also trying to get to Orlando ASAP. With the opening of Epic Universe in March 2025, Universal seems to be on everyone’s mind. If you’re trying to decide which on-site hotel to stay at in 2025 (and probably 2026), you’ve come to the right place. In this guide to on-site hotels, we’ll go over the different types of hotels, the benefits, and the costs. Most importantly, we’ll hopefully help you decide which hotel to choose.

Introduction to Universal Orlando Resort Hotels

Universal Orlando Resort is renowned for its thrilling attractions, memorable experiences, and immersive worlds. One often overlooked experience is the variety of on-site hotel options available for guests. Each hotel offers unique theming and amenities that cater to different preferences and budgets. Which is great! But this can also make choosing a hotel difficult.

First of all, should you stay on-site?

The short answer is yes. The long answer is also yes.

The Universal Orlando Resort hotels typically range from about $100 – $400 per night. Unfortunately, they do use dynamic pricing, which means the price increases with the number of bookings. This also means the price can decrease as well. Keep checking on the price if you’ve already booked! They will rebook your hotel for you if the price drops.

Staying on-site at Universal Orlando Resort comes with quite a few advantages. One of the primary benefits is the proximity to the theme parks, allowing for convenient access to the parks. This translates to more bang for your buck and, ultimately, more time in the parks.

Enhancing park accessibility is key to a more enjoyable and relaxing vacation. You’ll most likely already be getting your steps in; no need to push it even more.

Every on-site hotel offers at least one pool (usually more), a gift shop, multiple restaurant/cafe options (including grab and go options), and a Starbucks.

As an on-site hotel guest, you’ll enjoy early park admission, transportation, merchandise delivery, and front desk texting service. These services are all complimentary with your stay at ANY on-site hotel.

Now the big one – Unlimited Express Pass. Unfortunately, this perk is only included in the 3 highest-tier hotels. But it is definitely worth it in my opinion.

In this guide, we will explore and compare the various on-site hotel options at Universal Orlando Resort. We’ll discuss the pros and cons of each, highlighting each hotel’s distinct attributes. By the end, you should have a better idea of which accommodations best suit your needs!

Universal Orlando Resort Hotel Categories

Universal Orlando has revamped its hotel categories, and I’ll be the first to say – it could be better.

In the past, they seemed to have a more cohesive grouping by price and benefits. Each category offered similar prices and essentially the exact same benefits. At least for now, this is no longer the case.

There are currently 3 categories of hotels – Signature Collection, Prime Value Hotels, and Value Inns and Suites.

In some ways, it makes sense, but overall, it seems a bit more confusing. That’s okay though, because we don’t really need to worry too much about the categories. Just be aware that there are a few changes, and it really only impacts the expensive – I mean, Signature Collection.

Opening 3 new hotels AND a new theme park (Epic Universe) is an ideal excuse to work on rebranding. I can see the direction they were taking with these changes if you factor in the new hotels.

But it does make me wonder if they are preparing for future changes…

Signature Collection

If you aren’t very concerned about your budget, or if you luck out with a great rate, you’ll want to stop here.

There are currently 5 hotels in the Signature Collection:

This is the part that (at least for now) does not make much sense. The first 3 (Portofino Bay, Hard Rock, and Royal Pacific) used to be the only hotels in this group. Likely because they are the only hotels that include a complimentary Unlimited Express Pass.

Sapphire Falls Resort used to be in a category of its own. It does not include an Express Pass, but it offers a more luxurious atmosphere and water taxi transportation.

Lastly, Universal Helios Grand Hotel is the newest Universal Hotel. It sits directly on-site at Epic Universe and has its own entrance into the new park! Although there is plenty of speculation that this hotel will also offer an Unlimited Express Pass, this has not yet been announced.

The Signature Hotels typically start between $250 and $450 per night. Why yes, that is a huge price range, I noticed that too. Not only does the starting price have a wide range, but they’re often listed between $500 and $900 per night. The price of this collection can vary greatly, especially depending on whether you’re booking last minute.

Ultimately, these hotels all offer some amazing amenities, including upscale dining, lavish pools, and unparalleled access to the parks.

Which Signature Hotel should you choose?

Express Pass

If you want to prioritize rides with long waits and can manage a higher budget, you’ll want to go with Portofino Bay, Hard Rock, or Royal Pacific. Your room key becomes an Unlimited Express Pass to include your check-in and check-out days.

This means everyone who wants the Express Pass will need to be listed on the room reservation. Up to two adults are included in the regular rate for the room (children are free). Adding adults will increase the rate by $55/night per adult.

You can always adjust the details when you check in. So if you need to add a third adult, I would probably just wait until you check in to let them know. But let’s say you catch the rates lower than when you originally booked? Then I would go ahead and rebook with your updated information.

Water Taxi Without The Price

If your priority is more for the atmosphere and high-end offerings, Sapphire Falls or Helios will be just fine. Sapphire Falls Resort is also a great choice if you can go off-peak, or if your ideal day is spent at a slower pace, not stressed about riding every ride.

This hotel is beautifully themed with Caribbean beach vibes. You still get the water taxi, which will streamline your entrance into the parks. It is also more upscale, but the price is consistently lower than the 3 hotels with Express Pass.

Epic Universe

If your goal is to experience the beauty of Epic Universe at night, from your hotel room, and be one of the first into Epic in the morning, you know your choice. Universal Helios Grand Hotel will be difficult to beat if your priority is Epic Universe.

Keep in mind that as of July 8th, 2025, you can only buy 1-day passes into Epic Universe, and Helios does not come with Express Passes. So if you want to go into Epic Universe for more than one day, you will have to buy multiple tickets.

Additionally, if you plan on visiting any of the other parks, the only mode of transportation from Helios will be the bus. The Universal buses are usually very reliable, though, and the ride isn’t too far.

Overall, you can’t go wrong with the Signature Collection. If budget isn’t your top priority, then these hotels should be your first choice.

Prime Value Hotels

If you’re more concerned with budget, but you still want an upscale feel, this may be your category.

There are currently 3 Prime Value Hotels:

These moderate hotels present a step up in terms of price, usually ranging from $150 to $250 per night. These properties offer a modern and even futuristic feel in the case of Terra Luna and Stella Nova.

Honestly, I don’t have much to say about this group. Although they don’t offer the same upscale dining options, transportation, or Express Passes, their proximity to the parks is nearly as convenient as the Signature Collection. You can find walking paths to take you to the parks, which are very convenient if you do not want to ride the bus.

Aventura is located next to Sapphire Falls with walking paths to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. It offers a rooftop bar with great views and is often cited as a favorite of young adults without children.

If your priority is Epic Universe and you prefer not to blow your budget without the perk of getting an Express Pass, I would pick Stella Nova. Both Stella Nova and Terra Luna are within walking distance to Epic Universe, although you will have to cross a road.

*Terra Luna does not currently have a walking path directly to Epic Universe. You have to walk across the street to use Stella Nova’s path.

Value Inns and Suites

This category is truly one of my favorites. If your budget is your main priority, this is your category!

There are currently 3 hotels within this category:

The Value Inns and Suites hotels offer the same basic amenities you can find at all on-site hotels, including early park entry and transportation. They typically range in price from $100 to $150 per night, although they can go up to around $250 during busy times.

These family-friendly hotels truly excel in their delivery of budget accommodations. There are excellent pools, restaurants/cafes, and bars at each of these hotels. You can find a cafeteria-style food court at each of these hotels, with options for everyone in your party. Plus, the larger suites will include a microwave, unlike the standard rooms at all of the hotels.

Cabana Bay Beach Resort

Cabana Bay Beach Resort edges out the Endless Summer Resorts in my opinion. However, sometimes the price can be a bit higher. If the price is comparable, Cabana Bay would be my choice. If one of the Endless Summer hotels fits in your budget better, you can’t go wrong with those either.

Cabana Bay offers a walking path to Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, AND Volcano Bay. Cabana Bay is the only hotel that offers a designated walking path to Volcano Bay. I would also recommend this resort if you plan on having a hotel/pool day.

At Cabana Bay, you can find a bowling alley, a pool with a lazy river, and a Malte Shoppe. With the heavy retro vibes, this resort is truly a blast from the past.

If you really, really want to ride the water taxi to avoid the buses, you can technically walk from Cabana Bay to Sapphire Falls. You don’t need to be a hotel guest to ride the water taxis. They can be ridden by anyone, but they are SO much more convenient if you are a hotel guest.

Directions from Cabana Bay to Sapphire Falls water taxi

While you can just walk across the street at the front entrances of each hotel, Adventure Way (the road separating the two hotels) can be pretty busy. I would recommend taking the walking path at the northeast end of Cabana Bay (parallel to Hollywood Way).

It’s about a 1/2 mile from the entrance of Cabana Bay to the front of Sapphire Falls following the walking path. From there, you’ll go through the lobby and follow the signs for the water taxi (circled in yellow).

Alternatively, you could follow the walking path until you reach Pacific Way (road on the opposite side of Sapphire Falls – separating this hotel and Royal Pacific). Turn right on Pacific Way and follow the walking path over the bridge, and you’ll see the boat launch on the right.

The water taxis should honestly be ridden by everyone at some point – the boat captains have been the highlight of my day on many occasions.

Endless Summer

Even though Cabana Bay has more to offer on-site, and with proximity to the parks, the Endless Summer Resorts are SO nice.

You can easily find a 4-night stay under $600 (including tax), between the two of these sister resorts. I’ve stayed there for 4 nights for less than $500 (including tax) just using Universal’s Stay and Save discount. Even during some of the busiest times, a 4-night stay is nearly always under $1,000 without a discount.

Additionally, the 2-bedroom suites (which are more like 1-bedroom suites but still an excellent space) are a great deal for larger families. We slept 4 adults and 1 child in this suite – and I would totally do it again.

Unique Themes and Experiences

When selecting a hotel at the Universal Orlando Resort, consider the distinct themes and experiences that each on-site hotel presents. The architecture, design, and atmosphere of the hotels contribute to your overall experience and can significantly enhance your stay while visiting the resort.

A few of my favorite themed hotels are Portofino Bay, Hard Rock, and Cabana Bay.

Portofino Bay is themed after the seaside village of Portofino, Italy, and is like a private little hidden gem. This may be my favorite hotel of all time. The minute I step onto the property, I feel like I am instantly transported to an Italian seaside town. Chef’s Kiss.

The Hard Rock Hotel offers a luxurious experience, intertwining the glamor of rock ‘n’ roll with upscale amenities. Guests are greeted with music memorabilia and a vibrant ambiance that captures the essence of musical history. The hotel features an expansive pool area (that plays music under the water!), and is the closest hotel to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. It is ideal for those seeking a lavish retreat infused with energetic vibes and top-notch services.

In contrast, the Cabana Bay Beach Resort invites guests to bask in nostalgia with its quirky, retro theme. The colorful décor and playful atmosphere extend the feeling of a vintage beach vacation. Family-friendly amenities, such as the lazy river pool and bowling alley, cater especially to guests traveling with children. This unique setting creates a laid-back environment, promoting relaxation and fun for all ages.

Ultimately, themes and personal preferences of on-site hotels can enhance your overall experience. Whether you lean toward luxury, nostalgia, or tropical relaxation, understanding the distinct offerings of each hotel can help you select the most suitable accommodations for your visit.

Dining Options and Convenience

Between the theme parks, CityWalk, and on-site hotels, there are a plethora of dining options across Universal Orlando Resort. Each hotel offers unique dining venues that cater to a variety of tastes and preferences. Guests can enjoy casual meals, quick bites, and elegant dining experiences without having to leave the resort premises. The convenience of having on-site restaurants allows visitors to refuel after a long day in the parks, making it an essential aspect of the on-site hotel comparison.

At the Signature Collection hotels, you’ll find more restaurants and fine dining options. These venues often feature gourmet cuisines and dining experiences, reflecting the resort’s theme. Furthermore, family-friendly options can be found in hotels in the Value Inns and Suites category, offering food courts with a wide selection of food.

Room service is also available at many of the on-site hotels, providing guests with the convenience of dining in the comfort of their room.

Although you can eat at any of the restaurants throughout the resort, it is far more convenient to have easy access to your hotel. Taking an hour or two to rest and grab food at the hotel can be a game-changer for late nights in the park.

You can find the menus (including prices) for the restaurants here on the Universal Orlando Resort website.

I highly recommend finding a few places you know will work for you and your party before going. If you’re interested in more budget-friendly dining recommendations, check out this post.

Transportation and Access to Universal Parks

One very important thing to consider is how you will be getting to the theme parks. Universal offers multiple transportation options, ensuring simplicity in getting to and from the parks. These transportation modes include shuttle services, water taxis, and walking paths, each offering unique advantages depending on the location of the hotel.

Every on-site hotel provides complimentary shuttle services that run frequently throughout the day. allowing guests to conveniently travel to every theme park Universal has to offer. These shuttles are very reliable and regularly scheduled every [approximately] 15 minutes. In my experience, it’s usually closer to every 10 minutes, though.

Unfortunately, these buses can get crowded during open and closing hours, so be prepared to be squished if you’re leaving with everyone else as the park is closing. If you head to the park well before the gates open for EPA, it’s typically not too crowded.

If you hadn’t noticed already, my absolute favorite mode of transportation is the water taxi service. This charming transit option enables you to travel in style along the waterways, providing scenic views while connecting to the parks. The dedicated security prior to entry onto the water taxis also speeds up park entry quite a bit.

Additionally, some hotels feature walking paths that lead directly to the theme parks. All resorts offer a convenient route to CityWalk/Universal Studios/Islands of Adventure EXCEPT the Endless Summer resorts, and the 3 new resorts by Epic Universe (Helios, Stella Nova, and Terra Luna). This option is ideal for guests who prefer to stretch their legs (before stretching their legs at the park) and experience a relaxing atmosphere on their way to the parks.

Cost Considerations and Booking Tips

When planning your stay, understanding the cost is crucial for maximizing your budget. Pricing for on-site hotels can fluctuate significantly based on the seasonality of travel. During peak times, such as holidays and summer months, rates tend to be higher, while off-peak seasons usually offer more affordable options. A keen eye on these seasonal pricing trends can lead to substantial savings when booking your stay.

My #1 tip is to book early. Universal Orlando has an amazing deposit and cancellation policy. They require the cost of the first night as a deposit, with the remaining due at check-in. And as long as you cancel 6 days prior to check-in, you’ll get a full refund.

Additionally, you can rebook as needed. Price drops? Rebook at the lower price. I cannot recommend booking in advance more.

Conclusion and Final Recommendations

Choosing the right hotel at Universal Orlando Resort can greatly enhance your overall experience, making it essential to consider various factors that match your specific travel needs. Throughout this guide, we have explored different on-site hotels and compared the unique features and amenities each property offers.

There is no one-size-fits-all with these on-site resorts. Although some are more geared towards family-friendly, while others appeal to solo travelers, you can’t go wrong with any of them.

When selecting your Universal Orlando resort hotel, consider budget, location, amenities, and the type of experience you wish to have. Be real about your priorities, and hopefully, this guide will help you make your choice!

Let me know your thoughts on the on-site hotels! Which are your favorites and why?