How to Select the Right On-Site Hotel for Your Family at Universal Studios Orlando

Experiencing the parks at Universal Studios Orlando is just as much about the hotel as it is about actual time spent at the theme parks. Universal Studios Orlando offers a wide array of on-site hotels and, for family travelers unsure which one is right for their family, we’re here to give you a quick round-up of the Signature Collection to make sure you select the best one for your group:

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel

Reminiscent of the seaside village of Portofino, Italy, this property features beautiful guestrooms and suites (some even themed kids’ suites), an open piazza, three pools, six restaurants and bars, a gelateria, game room, and on-site gift shop. Better yet? Guests receive free Universal Express Unlimited with a valid park ticket, as well as early park admission and free transportation to the park via water taxi and shuttle bus. Typically $200–400 per night.

Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel

One of the park’s newer properties, this hotel is the place to stay if you’re looking for exceptional dining, a rooftop bar, elegant guestrooms and suites, a zero-entry pool, and game room. It’s definitely more of a hotel for families with pre-teens and teenagers. Guests of the hotel also enjoy early park admission and a dedicated entrance to Universal’s new Epic Universe. About $300–500 per night.

Loews Sapphire Falls Resort

Looking for an island oasis vibe? This hotel immerses guests in a tropical paradise with steel drums, palm trees, a glistening pool, and, for parents, rare vintage rums. Island-inspired décor adorns each room and suite, while restaurants serve Caribbean-focused dishes and drinks. There’s also a game room, water slide by the pool and poolside activities year-round. Guests of the hotel receive early park admission and transportation via shuttle bus and water taxi. About $150–400 per night.

Hard Rock Hotel

Families wishing for a rock n’ roll experience find it here, complete with a swimming pool with underwater music, famed steakhouse, live music, cool guestrooms and suites, game room, hall of music memorabilia, and celebrity-curated playlists available in room. Guests receive early park admission, free Universal Express Unlimited, and transportation via water taxi and shuttle bus. About $250–500 per night.

Loews Royal Pacific Resort

For a laid-back Polynesian paradise with animal-inspired spaces, this hotel is for you. Guestrooms and suites are decorated with an island twist, while restaurants offer Pan Asian dishes, sushi and more. A lagoon-style pool with two hot tubs and an interactive play area also graces the property, and the hotel hosts a unique Wantilan Luau every Saturday evening. Guests receive early park admission and free Universal Express Unlimited, as well as transportation via water taxi and shuttle bus. Typically $300–500 per night.