Staying at a Universal Orlando Resort hotel puts you right in the action! For theme park enthusiasts this is a perfect room view!
Universal has so many exciting things coming down the line with Epic Universe and brand new resorts! Along with the new additions, we are getting a new way to rank all the resorts, old and new! BUT is this making choosing your resort more or less clear??
Previously, Universal had Value, Prime Value, Preferred, and Premier resorts. These categories highlight cost and separates the 3 resorts with Express Passes into their own category.
In the new ranking system, we are seeing more of a focus on the level of service and amenities. This means we are seeing a slight “re-brand” of a couple of the existing resorts. The new tiers are Value Inns & Suites, Prime Value Hotels, and The Signature Collection. Notably, we went from 4 tiers to 3, Cabana Bay Beach Resort is no longer in the Prime Value tier, and Sapphire Falls is bumped up to the same tier as our former Premier Resorts.
Three brand new resorts join the rankings ahead of Epic Universe, two of which already are able to be booked. Stella Nova and Terra Luna Resorts fall into the Prime Value Tiers. Universal just released details on the Helios Grand Hotel joining the Signature Collection.
A huge point of confusion is that although each tier is based on amenities, some amenities do not apply to the entire category. The biggest example is that not all resorts in the Signature Collection will have Express Passes as a feature. In fact, Hard Rock, Portofino Bay, and Royal Pacific will remain the ONLY 3 resorts offering Express Passes. It is also important to note that NO changes will be made to pricing or currently available amenities at any resort, even if there is a change in tier.
It makes me wonder what may be coming in the future that will make these categories make more sense than the last one.
Choosing Where To Stay
The Value Inns & Suites- These resorts have the most affordable selection of rooms and are going to be the only place to find budget friendly suites for larger families. Saving money for souvenirs? Spending more time in the parks than at the hotel? This category may be the best option for you! The most basic amenities such as Early Park Admission, park shuttles, and Starbucks in the lobbies are present. All the fun without the “frills,” so you can make the most of your in-park experiences. Pool hopping remains a feature only for Cabana Bay in this category, though.
My Thoughts: When budget is my primary concern, I actually really enjoy Endless Summer Surfside. It is a little quieter and easily rivals offsite price points with the added onsite amenities. While Cabana Bay has more to do, the larger resort leaves me walking longer distances to my room, and I am not a huge fan (personal opinion) of the retro theming, or the busy-ness.If you want the added activities and walking path to Volcano Bay, I recommend staying in a Preferred Room.
Prime Value Resorts- Looking to be a little closer to the parks, but still staying in your budget? These are your best options. Park views can be found in parts of these resorts and comfort-focused accommodations bring your stay up a notch. Again, you will still find basic amenities, but with a little less travel time to dread at the end of a long park day. At Aventura, you can walk to Sapphire Falls for an upgraded dining experience or to access the walking path to the parks. Stella Nova will offer a walking path to Epic Universe as well.
My Thoughts: I LOVE Aventura. It is a perfect setup with simple accommodations but ease of access, and the food is really good (I highly recommend a Poke Bowl). At the time of this writing, the other 2 resorts are not open, so I will come back with further thoughts.
The Signature Collection- When convenience and amenities are your primary objectives, these are your go-to resorts. Upgraded amenities like larger standard rooms, themed suites, table service dining, concierge services, valet parking, and the closest proximity to the parks are features to look forward to here. If you want some down time at your resort, these amenities will make it so you never want to leave! As previously mentioned, 3 of these resorts include Express Passes in your stay. The Helios Grand will have its own private entrance to Epic Universe, as well as close-up Epic views. The 4 current resorts also have a water-taxi to the 2 main parks as well as a walking path.
My thoughts: ALL of these resorts are beautiful and have a lot to offer! Express Passes are hard to pass up, and we love how close Hard Rock is to the parks so this is my personal go-to when we have a higher budget. I love Sapphire Falls too, and although it doesn’t have Express Passes, it is the lowest cost in this tier, so you can get a great experience here at a lower price point. While I am disappointed (slightly) that Helios Grand will lack the Express Option, I cannot wait to stay here and be right IN Epic Universe.
All in all, you honestly can’t go wrong with any of the onsite resorts, but choosing the best fit for your family will help you to have the desired vacation experience. As a Smart Moms Travel Agent specializing in Universal, I love helping to curate an amazing vacation. You can follow me on socials for more tips @nerdymomtravels and subscribe to the blog to get all the most up-to-date info about your favorite destinations.
