If you’re visiting Universal Orlando, you know there’s going to be a big crowd. And there are always long lines at the most popular rides and attractions. To make it a fun experience, stay at a hotel that includes an Unlimited Express Pass. For families, we’ll show you the best suites with rooms decorated for kids. While couples might prefer something more contemporary and private. Some hotels also have free shuttle services and water taxis. And you don’t have to leave the dog at home, as many hotels are pet-friendly. So before you book, here are the best Universal Orlando hotels with the Unlimited Express Pass.
1. Universal’s Loews Royal Pacific Resort
Loews Royal Pacific is a South Seas-themed resort inside Universal Orlando. With island-style suites of all sizes, it’s ideal for family vacations or a couple’s getaway. For families, you’ll love the Kid’s suites. They have a separate bedroom for the adults and a Jurassic Park room for the kids. Plus, these suites include free Unlimited Express Passes and early admission to Universal Orlando. After a day exploring the theme park, cool off with a Mai Tai from Orchid Court Lounge. Take your drink to the outdoor pool or relax by the lagoon’s white sand beach. With six restaurants, Lowes Royal Pacific has something for every taste. Islands dining room serves a Pan Asian menu, while Orchid Court offers fresh sushi and sashimi. For something more casual, Jake’s American Bar features cocktails and an American menu.
- Guest Reviews: The location was so convenient, just a short walk to the park. The express passes made it a great value.
- Star Rating: 4 stars
- Best Rooms: Suites
- Address: 6300 Hollywood Way, Orlando, FL 32819, United States
2. Universal’s Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
Loews Portofino Bay is another hotel that offers Unlimited Express Passes to guests. If you stay here, the seaside town of Portofino comes to life. From the cobblestone streets to the bayside location, it’ll feel like you’re in Italy. For families with young kids, book the Despicable Me Kids Suite. There’s a king bed for mom and dad, plus a kid’s room decorated like the animated film Despicable Me. During the warmer months, you can go for a swim at one of three outdoor pools. Then enjoy an espresso or a creamy gelato at the Harbor Piazza. For food, enjoy fine Italian dining at Bice or family-style dinners at Mama Della’s. Top off the night with a glass of wine and live jazz while you take in the views from Thirsty Fish.
- Guest Reviews: It was a great one-night stay. The express pass made our visit to Universal so much better.
- Star Rating: 4 stars
- Best Rooms: Despicable Me Kids Suites
- Address: 5601 Universal Boulevard, Orlando, FL 32819, United States
3. Universal’s Hard Rock Hotel
Enjoy all the perks of living like a rock star at the Orlando Universal’s Hard Rock Hotel. The main benefit, of course, is the Unlimited Express Pass and early park admission. For a family treat, we recommend the Future Rock Star Suite. This Premium suite features a king bedroom and a rock n roll-themed room for the kids. But if you’re staying as a couple, check out the cozy King suites. Outside, the Hard Rock’s palm-lined swimming pool is a popular hang-out spot. There’s live music and you can enjoy a frozen cocktail right from your lounge chair. For food, there are a few delicious choices onsite. The Kitchen’s menu is classic American, while the Palm is known for its aged steaks and giant lobsters.
- Guest Reviews: The suite was perfect for our family. Having the express pass was worth it.
- Star Rating: 4 stars
- Best Rooms: Premium Two-Bedroom Suite
- Address: 5800 Universal Boulevard, Orlando, FL 32819, United States
Unlimited Express Pass vs Express Pass
There are two types of express passes for Universal Studios and Universal’s Islands of Adventure. The normal $80 Universal Express Pass allows you to skip the regular line only once per ride. With the $110 Unlimited Express Pass, you can access the express lines as much as you want. And this is the benefit you get during your stay at the Universal Orlando hotels mentioned above – unlimited access! When you arrive at selected attractions, you’ll see a separate line with shorter wait times. Imagine riding your favorite Universal attractions over and over without a long wait!
Other Universal Orlando Hotels Onsite
Universal Orlando has other hotels on site that don’t include Unlimited Express Passes. They’re more affordable since they’re slightly further away from the theme parks. However, they do include early admission to Universal’s Islands of Adventure and Universal’s Volcano Bay. This allows you to access the parks 1-hour before the official opening time. The hotels with this package are:
- Cabana Bay Beach Resort
- Sapphire Falls Resort
- Aventura Hotel
- Universal’s Endless Summer Resort Surfside Inn and Suites
- Universal’s Endless Summer Resort Dockside Inn and Suites
Benefits of Staying at Universal Orlando Hotels
When you stay at a Universal Orlando Hotel you receive exclusive benefits you won’t find anywhere else. Early admission is included with all their hotels. But at the Premiere Hotels, you can really appreciate the time. Skipping the long lines with Unlimited Express Pass offers the best value to hotel guests. Plus, you’ll get priority seating at resort restaurants – just show the hostess your keycard. With free water taxis and shuttles, it’s a quick jump between the resort’s hotels and theme parks. The hotel key card also works like a credit card at shops and restaurants. And if you don’t want to carry your shopping bags all day, there’s free delivery from the shops to your room.
Best Times To Visit Universal Orlando
Universal Orlando is a thrilling destination with world-class attractions, entertainment, and experiences. To make the most of your visit it’s important to consider factors like crowd levels, weather, and special events. Here are some of the best times to visit Universal Orlando.
- Off Peak Seasons (January to February) – To avoid heavy crowds consider visiting during off peak season. You’ll encounter shorter wait times for rides and have a more relaxed experience.
- Spring or Fall (March to May & September to November) – Spring and fall offer pleasant weather, with milder temperatures and lower humidity. Planning a trip during these seasons can make your visit more comfortable. You can fully enjoy the outdoor attractions and shows without the heat.
- Weekdays – If you can, plan your visit for weekdays instead of weekends. Weekdays tend to be less crowded with shorter lines for the popular attractions. It makes exploring the park more enjoyable.
- Early Mornings & Evenings – To make the most of your day, arrive early in the morning or stay until closing. The few hours after opening and the last hours before closing tend to be less crowded. This allows visitors to experience popular rides with shorter wait times.
Universal Orlando Hotels With Free Shuttles
All the Universal Orlando hotels offer free shuttles to their guests. The shuttle will take you to all the Universal theme parks and the CityWalk.
Universal Orlando Hotels With Water Taxis
Loews Royal Pacific, Loews Portofino Bay, Universal’s Hard Rock Hotel, and Lowes Sapphire Falls have water taxis. The water taxis are exclusive to these four hotels. The average taxi ride is less than 10 minutes, and guests enjoy beautiful views along the way.
Pet-Friendly Universal Orlando Hotels
Pets are allowed at Loews Royal Pacific, Loews Portofino Bay, and Universal’s Hard Rock Hotel. You can bring a maximum of 2 pets – there’s a one-time fee of $100 per pet. They’ll be provided with special treats and a bowl as part of the stay.
Best Universal Orlando Hotel Suites For Families
The best Universal Orlando hotel suite for families is the Premium two-bedroom suite at Hard Rock Hotel. It’s the largest of the family suites. The kid’s room includes a stage area where they can sync their music to a TV or headset. Plus there’s a spacious private king bedroom for mom & dad. Alternatively, check out the Despicable Me suite at Universal’s Loews Portofino Bay Hotel.
Best Universal Orlando Hotel Suite For Couples
The best Universal Orlando hotel suite for couples is the King suite at Loews Royal Pacific. Couples will feel like island royalty in this spacious suite with a king bedroom and living area. You’ll love the ensuite bath with a walk-in shower big enough for two.
Universal Orlando Hotels Map
Find More Hotels near Universal Orlando Resort
Universal Orlando Hotel Offers
| Universal Orlando Hotels | Room Offers |
| Universal’s Loews Royal Pacific Resort | Unlimited Express Pass |
| Universal’s Loews Portofino Bay Hotel | Unlimited Express Pass |
| Universal’s Hard Rock Hotel | Unlimited Express Pass |
| Cabana Bay Beach Resort | Early Park Admission |
| Sapphire Falls Resort | Early Park Admission |
| Aventura Hotel | Early Park Admission |
| Universal’s Endless Summer Resort Surfside Inn and Suites | Early Park Admission |
| Universal’s Endless Summer Resort Dockside Inn and Suites | Early Park Admission |
