These are unusual times, and the state of affairs can change quickly. Please check the latest travel guidance before making your journey. Our writers visited these hotels pre-pandemic.
Unlike the huge Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando has grown up in piecemeal fashion, which means there is less structure to the areas around it. In short, it’s a hodge-podge. Nearby International Drive features plenty of budget-minded hotels to serve the theme parks, but Universal’s tie-up with Loews hotels and the proximity of the huge Convention Center help to redress the balance, ensuring there are more distinctive, upscale options. From sprawling megaplexes with splashy waterparks to boutique resorts offering foodie-centric restaurants, here’s our pick of the best hotels near Universal Studios (and beyond).
Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando
Orlando, Florida, United States
From
£
243
• The best hotels in Orlando
Universal’s Surfside Inn and Suites
Orlando, Florida, United States
From
£
71
Hyatt Regency Orlando
Orlando, Florida, United States
From
£
100
Hilton Orlando
Orlando, Florida, United States
From
£
117
Rosen Shingle Creek
Orlando, Florida, United States
From
£
81
Universal’s Aventura Hotel
Orlando, Florida, United States
From
£
108
Loews Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando
Orlando, Florida, United States
still provides a serene Caribbean-style getaway, set around a lagoon and waterfalls, with tempting dining and a unique rum bar. The young, slick staff have been cherry-picked from Universal’s other hotels and there is an air of pride and attentiveness. The hotel is also packed with user-friendly facilities, from the huge main pool and the water play area for children to the fitness centre (including a dry sauna), games arcade, gift shop, grab-and-go café, concierge desk and laundromats. Even with the theme parks so close, there is a lot to keep guests here.
From
£
150
• The best hotels in Florida
Loews Royal Pacific Resort
Orlando, Florida, United States
From
£
208
Cabana Bay Beach Resort at Universal
Orlando, Florida, United States
From
£
107
Hard Rock Hotel Orlando
Orlando, Florida, United States
From
£
226
Contributions by Jennifer Hodges