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If you’ve waited a long time for your invitation to Hogwarts to arrive, you most likely want your Universal Studios Florida experience to be nothing but pure magic. We get it. We’ve also spent many nights dreaming of that first sip of butterbeer in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and planning our steps throughout the Universal theme parks perfectly. While deciding if you want to visit first with the Minions or wizards is part of the fun, choosing the perfect hotel for your family can easily make you feel spellbound by the dark arts. The best way to “wingardium leviosa” your stress away over picking the right hotel is to better understand your options. When it comes to finding the best hotels near Universal Studios Orlando, you can look at one of the many Universal Orlando Resorts or opt for an off-property hotel instead. Should You Stay On or Off Property?Choosing to stay at a Universal Orlando Resort hotel comes with exclusive perks, such as Early Park Admission with a valid theme park admission ticket, free water taxis, shuttles and walking trails between your hotel and the theme parks and the ability to charge in-park purchases to your room. On the other hand, choosing an off-property hotel near Universal Studios allows you to use your hotel reward points, have more space to accommodate a larger family, find more budget-friendly options or stay at a luxury resort with dreamy poolside waterfalls. Whatever your travel needs and desires, we hope this guide helps you find the best hotel near Universal Studios Orlando so your family can check in to the magical vacation of your dreams. Loews Royal Pacific Resort6300 Hollywood Way, Orlando, FL 32819 Photo credit: LOEWS HOTELS & COIf you struggled to choose between a tropical South Seas vacation and Universal Studios Florida, booking a stay at the Loews Royal Pacific Resort is a way to merge the two destinations into one. This tropical-oasis-themed hotel offers families the opportunity to dip their toes in the sand beach while the parents sip a Mai Tai next to the lagoon-style pool. When it’s time to head indoors, the kids can climb into the comfort of their retreat to their gyrosphere-themed beds in a Jurassic Park-themed suite. Why It Works for Families:
CHECK PRICES / AVAILABILITY Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort6550 Adventure Way, Orlando, FL 32819 Photo credit: Universal StudiosFor a more retro vibe, families can stay at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort. This 1950’s – 60’s themed hotel offers tons of opportunities for some good, old-fashioned fun at the onsite bowling alley, game room, two pools and winding river.
Plus, larger families can feel right at home by staying in one of the family suites which include a kitchenette and room for 6 guests. Why It Works for Families:
CHECK PRICES / AVAILABILITY Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites7000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819 Photo credit: Universal StudiosIf your family is ready to soak up the sun surf-style, Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites is a great option. This “value” hotel stays on theme with a surfboard-shaped pool and an onsite pizza parlor that allows you to order freshly made pizza and have it delivered to your room. It’s also a great option for larger families as this hotel offers two-bedroom suites with room for up to 6 guests. Why It Works for Families:
CHECK PRICES / AVAILABILITY Loews Portofino Bay Hotel5601 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819 Photo credit: LOEWS HOTELS & COLa dolce vita, aka “the sweet life,” takes on a whole new meaning at the Loews Portofino Bay Hotel. Here, families can gather around good food (like artisan gelato from the onsite Gelateria) or by any one of the three Italian-themed swimming pools. While the main theme of the hotel is based on a seaside village in Italy, kids can also find Minion-themed bedrooms as part of the available Despicable Me suites. Why It Works for Families:
CHECK PRICES / AVAILABILITY Hardrock Hotel at Universal Orlando5800 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819 Photo credit: Universal StudiosFor families who like to rock, the Hardrock Hotel at Universal Orlando keeps the beat alive. Decorated with iconic rock-n-roll memorabilia, the music theme continues throughout the large pool area and into the rooms. With the “Future Rock Star Suite,” kids can put on their own show with an in-room color-changing stage! Why It Works for Families:
CHECK PRICES / AVAILABILITY Closest Off Property Hotels to Universal Studios OrlandoIf you’re looking to stay off-property at Universal Studios Orlando, but still want to be close to the action, these hotels are all either within walking distance to the park or extremely close driving distance. Hyatt Place Across From Universal Orlando Resort5976 Caravan Court Orlando, Florida, United States, 32819 The Hyatt Place is considered a Universal Partner Hotel. That means guests staying at this hotel near Universal get special park perks such as discounts at select theme park locations and access to the Universal Partner Hotel shuttle to and from the parks. Why It Works for Families:
CHECK PRICES / AVAILABILITY TravelingMom Tip: Join the World of Hyatt rewards program before you book for special member discounts, free night rewards and more. It’s free to join! Holiday Inn Express & Suites Nearest Universal Orlando5605 Major Boulevard, Orlando, Florida 32819 Photo credit: IHG Hotels & ResortsThe Holiday Inn Express & Suites Nearest Universal Orlando is a great option for larger families or those looking to save on added expenses by taking advantage of the hotel’s free breakfast, free wifi and free shuttle service to the park. Families looking for more space can book a suite that comes with additional living and kitchen areas. Why It Works for Families:
CHECK PRICES / AVAILABILITY TravelingMom Tip: Join the IHG Rewards loyalty program before you book. It’s free to join and being a member gives you the guaranteed lowest rate on your room. Plus, you’ll earn points you can use later to book free hotel rooms! DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel at the Entrance to Universal Orlando5780 Major Blvd., Orlando, Florida 32819 The DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel near Universal Orlando is not only within walking distance to the Universal Studios theme parks, but it also has other fun vacation-worthy perks like a great pool area and onsite sweet shoppe. Why It Works for Families:
CHECK PRICES / AVAILABILITY TravelingMom Tip: This property belongs to the Hilton Honors rewards program! Be sure to sign up for their rewards program ahead of time to get special perks like free wifi and member-exclusive rates. Points can be used to book free nights, local experiences and can even be redeemed for car rentals! Hampton Inn Closest to Universal Orlando5621 Windhover Drive, Orlando, FL 32819 Photo credit: HiltonLooking to have a Universal Florida vacation without breaking the bank? The Hampton Inn Closest to Universal Orlando is a great option for you because your family can eat for free, park for free and use the free wifi while staying at this hotel. Why It Works for Families:
CHECK PRICES / AVAILABILITY Orlando Hotels with a Shuttle to Universal StudiosIf you’re looking for perks such as free parking or luxury amenities instead of being within walking distance to the parks, these hotels are a great option to consider. While they are a bit farther away from the parks, they all offer the convenience of a shuttle service to Universal Studios Orlando. TravelingMom Tip: Looking for more exciting things to do in Orlando as a family? Click here to find 30+ Fun Things to Do in Orlando with Kids. Fairfield Inn & Suites Orlando Near Universal Orlando Resort5614 Vineland Road, Orlando, FL 32819 Photo credit: MarriottFor those looking to cut back on vacation costs, the Fairfield Inn & Suites Orlando offers families free parking, free wifi, free breakfast and free shuttle service to the parks. Why It Works for Families:
CHECK PRICES / AVAILABILITY TravelingMom Tip: This is a Marriott property, so join the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty club before you book to get the best deals and accumulate points for perks on future stays. Ritz Carlton Orlando Grande Lakes4012 Central Florida Parkway Orlando, FL 32837 Photo credit: The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C.Have any energy left after a day at the park? Check out any of the three lighted tennis courts or three available pools at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando Grande Lakes. Or simply relax on your private balcony with a view. Why It Works for Families:
CHECK PRICES / AVAILABILITY Off Property Universal Studios Hotels for Large FamiliesNeed more space? These Orlando hotels are great for accommodating larger groups or those wanting to make their vacation feel a little bit more like home with access to kitchen amenities, BBQ grills and even pet-friendly amenities like an onsite dog park. Holiday Inn & Suites Across From Universal Orlando5916 Caravan Ct, Orlando, FL 32819-7925 Photo credit: IHG Hotels & ResortsIf the whole family (pets included) are headed on vacation, you may want to consider the Holiday Inn & Suites Across From Universal Orlando. This location has something for everyone, including a pool and game room for the kids, extra space for the parents and an onsite dog park for Fido! Plus, kids 11 and under can eat for free with a qualifying adult meal order at the onsite restaurant. Why It Works for Families:
CHECK PRICES / AVAILABILITY Homewood Suites by Hilton Orlando-Nearest to Universal Studios5893 American Way, Orlando, FL 32819 Photo credit: HiltonThe Homewood Suites by Hilton Orlando-Nearest to Universal Studios is the perfect choice for those wanting to fire up the BBQ grill, have a homecooked meal and relax by the pool after a long day at the parks. This hotel offers that home away from home feeling and gives families the opportunity to settle in and relax. Plus, there are added perks like free shuttle service to Universal Orlando and free breakfast. Why It Works for Families:
CHECK PRICES / AVAILABILITY Orlando Hotels with Great PoolsIf your dream vacation includes not only the parks but also plenty of time spent relaxing in the sun, head to one of these Orlando hotels with amazingly great pools! JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes4040 Central Florida Parkway, Orlando, FL 32837 Photo credit: MarriottIf you’re looking for Instagram-worthy pools, the JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes is where you want to be! Recently named Trip Advisor’s “2020 Travelers Choice Hotel,” this destination includes a 24,000 square-foot lazy river pool and an adults-only pool, among other luxury amenities and services. Included in your daily resort fee are perks like high-speed internet, mountain bike rental, two pool floats at the lazy river and shuttle service to and from Universal Orlando and other local theme parks. Why It Works for Families:
CHECK PRICES / AVAILABILITY Hilton Orlando6001 Destination Parkway, Orlando, FL 32819 Photo credit: HiltonThe Hilton Orlando is a great option for families who like to stay active. Not only does the hotel offer a great pool area, other outdoor activities include sports courts, a waterslide and a Splash Zone. The Hilton Orlando is also centrally located giving you easy access to other nearby parks, like SeaWorld and Walt Disney World. Why It Works for Families:
CHECK PRICES / AVAILABILITY TravelingMom Tip: Looking for the best hotels near Walt Disney World? Check out these 11 Magical Disney World Off Property Resorts. Other Hotel and Vacation Rentals Near Universal Studios FloridaLooking for other Universal Orlando hotels or
vacation rentals in Orlando, Florida? Use this interactive map to find the right accommodations for your family! Booking.com
What is a good hotel to get for Magic Kingdom and Universal?Most Magical Hotels Near Magic Kingdom. Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.. Disney's Polynesian Village Resort.. Disney's Contemporary Resort.. Can you stay at a Disney hotel and go to Universal Studios?First thing to point out – staying at a Disney or Universal Hotel does not mean that your hotel is inside the park entrance gate. You will still need a separate admission ticket for the theme park and most hotel packages do not include entry tickets.
How far apart is Disney World from Universal Studios?In fact, Disney World is only about 9 miles away from Universal Studios, which means, if you are driving the most direct route in good traffic, the journey time is only approximately 15 minutes. Universal Studios is located closest to Orlando, found towards the Southwest of the city.
Do Disney resorts have shuttles to Universal?Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando offer free shuttle services between their resorts and affiliated theme parks, but you may have to transfer from one to the other. Usually, routes run every 20 to 30 minutes, departing from the entrance of every Disney and Universal property.
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