Why Universal’s Hotels Are Severely Underrated

When it comes to iconic hotels in central Florida, Disney World gets most of the spotlight, but let’s not forget that Universal Orlando has its fair share of destination-worthy resorts! 

Just as Universal has underrated snacks and underrated rides, it’s got plenty of underrated hotels as well — so let’s explore them! 

What makes Universal’s hotels so severely underrated? Let’s find out! 

Value Hotels Actually Feel Like A Value! 

Unlike Disney World, where the Value resorts sometimes boast Deluxe prices, Universal actually seems to know the meaning of the word “value.” 

For instance, Cabana Bay Beach Resort has starting rates of $132, which feels impressively reasonable for a region notorious for overpriced…everything! 

Budget-Friendly Options Abound

Not only are the Value resorts a legit value, but Universal hotels are teeming with special prices and affordable options and packages that help make this a seriously economical Resort in which to stay! 

One example is the Endless Summer Resort — Dockside Inn and Suites, which has rates starting at a staggeringly low $88, for select weeks in late-summer and fall! 

Hotel and theme park bundle packages are also low-key amazing, with bundles that start at $105 — with savings up to $200! 

Theming is Beautiful But Subtle

As much as we love us some over-the-top Disney theming, sometimes we just want something a little more subtle, and Universal delivers with hotels that are tasteful and beautiful without beating you over the head with movie-themed decor. 

Some standouts include Surfside Inn and Suites, which provide a relaxing beachy vibe and Loews Sapphire Falls Resort, a stunner with waterfalls, steel drums, and lush landscaping. 

Amenities Are Unique and Fun

When it comes to hotel amenities, there are plenty of familiar fixtures and favorites, like swimming pools, fitness centers, and on-site gift shops, but how about a bowling alley? 

Universal hotels are brimming with unexpected and fun amenities, like a lazy river and bowling alley at Cabana Bay Beach Resort, a stunning rooftop bar at Aventura Hotel, and a huge pool at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort.

Then there’s the Sounds of Stay programs at Hard Rock Hotel, where guests can reserve things like turn tables and Fender guitars for their rooms (when it’s not a pandemic, anyway). 

Convenient Location and Access

While there are a few Disney World hotels with convenient access to the parks, much of those resorts are spread out wide and far, making it impossible to walk to a park. Universal’s hotels, though, are the pinnacle of convenience. 

For guests staying at the Hard Rock Hotel, for instance, they can easily walk to the parks, to other hotels, and to Universal CityWalk, all within a stone’s throw of their room.

Premier Hotel Benefits Are Incredible

Universal’s equivalent of Disney’s Deluxe resorts, Premier hotels are stacked with benefits and extra perks that make the price tags feel totally justified. 

Examples of Premier Hotels include Loews Royal Pacific Resort and Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, two properties that let guests skip regular lines at participating rides and attractions and use Universal Express Unlimited instead — and it’s included with their rooms!

They also get early access to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, priority restaurant seating, free transport to theme parks and CityWalk, and free delivery of merch to their hotel rooms! 

Between the above-and-beyond amenities, the too-good-to-be-true prices, and the sheer convenience, Universal is home to hotels that are totally worth a second look — and a visit! 

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What is your favorite thing about Universal hotels? Let us know in the comments!