The Universal Studios theme park is part of the Universal Orlando Resort. The three AAA Four Diamond-standard hotels at Universal Orlando Resort (Loews Portofino Bay, Hard Rock and Loews Royal Pacific) are within walking distance of both theme parks: Universal Studios and Universal's Islands of Adventure. Additionally, there are many hotels for all budgets in the Orlando area that offer free shuttle buses to these attractions. Prices given are approximate as at 2010. When making bookings be sure to compare prices among online booking services to get the best deal.
Themed around the Italian resort of Portofino, the Italian Renaissance architectured Portofino Bay offers a range of accommodations from rooms to suites, and even includes Dr Seuss-themed kids' suites which allow parents some privacy, while being close to their children. Offering three separate pools and a world-class spa and fitness center, there is plenty to relax guests after a busy visit to the Studios, as well as three restaurants, a deli, a cafe, a pizzeria, two bars and 24-hour room service. Room rates start at $274 per night.
Loews Portofino Bay
5601 Universal Blvd.
Orlando, Florida 32819
888-430-4999
loewshotels.com/en/Portofino-Bay-Hotel
From Elvis's wing-collared stage costume to Elton John's boots, rock and roll lovers will enjoy checking out the more than one million dollars worth of memorabilia on display at the Hard Rock Hotel. Entertainments include their 'dive-in' poolside movie screen, concerts and DJ nights. The centerpiece of the hotel is its 12,000 square-foot pool with beach area. New York steakhouse The Palm has a restaurant onsite, featuring "prime cuts of meat and succulent Nova Scotia lobsters, along with classic American fare and Italian specialties" and there are four other restaurants and bars to serve guests. Room rates start at $274 per night.
Hard Rock Hotel
5800 Universal Blvd.
Orlando, FL 32819
888-832-7155
hardrockhotelorlando.com
The Polynesian-themed Loews Royal Pacific with its lagoon-style pool, beach and palm trees offer a relaxing base from which to enjoy Universal Studios. Guest accommodations are Asian, Polynesian and plantation-themed and children will enjoy Jurassic Park-themed kids' suites. Dining options include celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse's Tchoup Chop and the Islands Dining Room. The hotel also hosts a luau with hula and fire dancers on Saturday evenings. Room rates start at $249 per night.
Loews Royal Pacific Resort
6300 Hollywood Way
Orlando, Florida 32819
888-430-4999
loewshotels.com/en/Royal-Pacific-Resort
The Doubletree Hotel at the Entrance to Universal Orlando, as its name suggests, also provides a convenient base for enjoying all that Universal Studios has to offer. The hotel has a 60,000 square feet meeting and event space and state-of-the-art business facilities which are available 24-hours per day to the business traveler. It also has an Olympic-sized swimming pool and a fitness center. Without the themed entertainments of other nearby hotels, the Doubletree provides affordable accommodation as close to Universal Studios attractions as its more expensive neighbors. Room rates start from $89 per night.
DoubleTree Hotel at the Entrance to Universal Orlando
5780 Major Blvd.
Orlando, FL 32819
407-351-1000
doubletreeorlando.com
