Universal Orlando Hotel Levels Explained: Signature, Prime Value & Value Inns (2025 Guide)

Explore the Universal Orlando hotel levels for 2025, including Signature, Prime Value, and Value Inn & Suites. Compare perks, prices, and which hotels still offer Express Pass.

Before anyone stayed at any of the three Epic Universe hotels, Universal Orlando changed the terms used for their hotel level. As we will explain later in this resource, this led to some interesting discussion and some confusion. As a result, this resource seeks to simplify the Universal Orlando Resort hotel levels.

Universal Orlando Resort is home to some of the world’s most thrilling theme parks and entertainment experiences. One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the adventure is by staying at one of the resort’s on-site hotels. These hotels are categorized into Signature Collection, Prime Value, and Value Inn & Suites accommodations, ensuring that every traveler finds an option that suits their budget and preferences.

Each “on-site” hotel at Universal Orlando Resort was constructed and is run in partnership with Loews Hotels. This partnership has led to excellent quality while also allowing guests to stay without paying top dollars.

Staying at an on-site hotel comes with several benefits, including early park admission, complimentary transportation, resort-wide charging privileges, and unique theming that complement the adventure waiting in Universal’s theme parks. Whether you’re seeking the height of luxury, a comfortable mid-range option, or an affordable place to stay while maximizing time in the parks, there is a Universal Orlando Resort hotel for you.

This guide provides a look at Universal Orlando Resort’s hotel offerings, including their unique features, benefits, and what makes each category stand out.

Universal Orlando Hotel Levels Signature Collection – Ultimate Luxury and Exclusive Perks

For guests looking for luxury, the Signature Collection hotels at Universal Orlando Resort offer top-tier accommodations, world-class amenities, and exclusive perks that enhance the theme park experience. These hotels offer the highest level of comfort, impeccable service, and unique atmospheres that make your stay a vacation in itself.

Universal Orlando Resort offers five Signature Collection Hotels. Three of them are former legacy or premier-level hotels, which can confuse some guests and experts.

Universal Orlando Hotel Levels: Don’t all Signature Collection Hotels at Universal Orlando Resort have Express Pass?

In the most significant change that leads to potential guest confusion, not all Signature Collection Hotels extend Express Pass privileges to guests. The three hotels formerly classified as Premier-level each offered unlimited Universal Express Pass to all guests staying there. Nevertheless, the two additional hotels in Universal Orlando’s current top hotel level category do not extend Express Passes to their guests.

In addition, with Universal Epic Universe theme park not allowing unlimited Express Pass but only one-time Express Pass for each attraction, things got more complicated. When talking with your travel expert at Universal Family Vacations, the easiest way to think of it revolves around remembering that not every top-level Universal Orlando Resort hotel entitles guests to Express Pass.

Having covered that, we can move on to the five different Signature Collection Hotels. These are:

• Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
• Hard Rock Hotel
• Loews Royal Pacific Resort
• Loews Sapphire Falls Resort
• Universal Helios Grand Hotel.

We will start with the three Universal Orlando Resort Hotels that still extend Express Pass to guests staying there.

1. Loews Portofino Bay Hotel

Inspired by Portofino’s charming Italian seaside village, Loews Portofino Bay Hotel is the epitome of elegance and sophistication. It offers guests a taste of Italy with cobblestone streets, picturesque harbor views, and authentic dining experiences. Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando Resort is a luxurious, Italian-themed resort that brings the charm and elegance of the Italian Riviera to Central Florida.

Guests enjoy spacious, stylish rooms, some with stunning bay views, along with top-notch amenities such as three themed pools, a full-service Mandara Spa, and a variety of on-site dining options ranging from fine Italian cuisine to casual fare. The resort also offers complimentary water taxi and shuttle service to Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure, Universal Epic Universe, and Universal CityWalk. It is a 10 to 15 minute walk from this hotel to the Universal Studios Florida theme park.

Staying at Loews Portofino Bay includes exclusive Universal Orlando benefits, such as free Universal Express Unlimited ride access, allowing guests to skip regular lines at participating attractions. The hotel also hosts the popular “Musica della Notte” opera performances on select evenings, adding to its European charm. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, romance, or easy theme park access, Loews Portofino Bay blends luxury and convenience in a uniquely immersive setting. It’s a top-tier choice for families, couples, and anyone looking to elevate their Universal Orlando vacation.

2. Hard Rock Hotel

For rock music lovers and those looking for a vibrant atmosphere, the Hard Rock Hotel is the perfect choice. This hotel exudes energy with its rock-and-roll memorabilia, live music events, and exciting nightlife. The Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando Resort offers a unique blend of luxury and rock ‘n’ roll flair, providing guests with an immersive experience celebrating music and entertainment. Located just a short walk from Universal Studios Florida, this hotel is ideal for those seeking both convenience and high-end accommodations.​

The hotel features 650 stylish rooms, including 29 suites, all adorned with music-themed décor and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy the 12,000-square-foot pool complete with underwater speakers, a sand beach, and a 260-foot waterslide. Dining options range from the upscale Palm Restaurant to casual spots like The Kitchen and Emack & Bolio’s Marketplace.​

Staying at the Hard Rock Hotel includes exclusive Universal Orlando benefits, such as free Universal Express Unlimited ride access, allowing guests to skip regular lines at participating attractions. Additional perks include early park admission, complimentary water taxi and shuttle service to the parks, and priority seating at select restaurants.​

The hotel’s vibrant atmosphere is enhanced by over $1 million worth of rock memorabilia, live music events, and unique offerings like the Fender guitar lending program. Whether you’re a music enthusiast or a theme park fan, the Hard Rock Hotel delivers a memorable and energetic stay.​

3. Loews Royal Pacific Resort

At Loews Royal Pacific Resort, guests can transport themselves to the South Pacific, a relaxing paradise with lush landscapes and a tranquil atmosphere. ​With 1,000 rooms and 51 suites, this hotel features island-chic décor, modern amenities, and options like the Jurassic World Kids’ Suites for families.​

Guests enjoy exclusive Universal Orlando benefits, including complimentary Unlimited Express Passes, allowing them to skip regular lines at most attractions. The resort’s lagoon-style pool, complete with a sandy beach, hot tubs, and the Royal Bali Sea interactive water play area, offers relaxation and fun for all ages.​

Dining options abound, from the grab-and-go Tuk Tuk Market to the family-friendly Islands Dining Room and the poolside Bula Bar & Grille. For a unique experience, the Wantilan Luau presents a Polynesian dinner show on Saturdays with hula and fire dancers.

Additional amenities include a 5,000-square-foot fitness center with sauna and steam room, a game room, and a croquet lawn. The resort is also pet-friendly, offering dedicated exercise areas and in-room pet dining options.​

Located within walking distance to Universal Islands of Adventure theme park, Loews Royal Pacific Resort combines luxury, convenience, and immersive theming for an unforgettable stay.​

Universal Orlando Hotel Levels: Signature Collection Hotels That Do Not Offer Express Pass

The remaining two Signature Collection Hotels at Universal Orlando Resort do not offer guests Express Passes. However, in at least one case, the price point remains lower to stay at them since Express Passes are not included.

4. Loews Sapphire Falls Resort

In the previous Universal Orlando Resort hotel levels, Loews Sapphire Falls Resort was considered a Preferred Level. This category only included this hotel. However, Loews Sapphire Falls was considered the nicest hotel on the property in many aspects.

​Loews Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando offers a vibrant Caribbean-inspired retreat in the heart of the action. With 1,000 guest rooms, including 83 suites, the resort blends tropical charm with modern comfort. ​

Guests can unwind at the expansive 16,000-square-foot pool featuring two white-sand beaches, a waterslide, and a children’s play area. Dining options include Amatista Cookhouse for Caribbean cuisine, Strong Water Tavern with an extensive rum selection, Drhum Club Kantine for poolside fare, and the New Dutch Trading Co for quick bites. ​

Staying at Sapphire Falls grants exclusive Universal Orlando benefits, such as Early Park Admission to select attractions, allowing guests to enter the parks up to an hour before regular opening times. Complimentary water taxi and shuttle services provide easy access to Universal Studios Florida, Universal Epic Universe, Islands of Adventure, and Universal CityWalk. ​

Additional amenities include a complimentary fitness center, game room, and pet-friendly accommodations. Loews Sapphire Falls Resort combines relaxation and convenience, making it an ideal choice for families and travelers seeking a tropical escape with close proximity to Universal Orlando’s attractions.​

5. Universal Helios Grand Hotel

The newest luxury addition to Universal Orlando Resort’s lineup, the Universal Helios Grand Hotel blends contemporary design with high-end services, offering a premier stay for discerning guests. The hotel offers guests an immersive stay inspired by the Greek god of the sun, Helios. Opened on April 16, 2025, this Mediterranean-themed hotel is seamlessly integrated into the heart of Universal Epic Universe theme park, providing an unparalleled experience for visitors.​ The hotel is actually within the theme park, which is a first for a Universal Orlando Resort theme park.

The hotel caters to a variety of guest preferences, featuring 500 elegantly designed rooms, including 35 suites. Unique accommodations such as the “How to Train Your Dragon” Kids’ Suites offer themed experiences for younger guests. Each room showcases celestial patterns and Mediterranean-inspired décor, reflecting the hotel’s overarching theme.

One of the hotel’s standout features is its exclusive entrance directly into Epic Universe, allowing guests convenient access to the park’s attractions. This proximity enhances the immersive experience, as the hotel’s architecture complements the adjacent Celestial Park within the theme park.​

Amenities at the Helios Grand Hotel include a resort-style zero-entry pool with underwater speakers, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a game room. Dining options abound, from the rooftop Bar Helios, which offers panoramic views and Mediterranean cuisine, to the Flora Taverna, which provides 24-hour room service. ​

Guests also benefit from exclusive perks such as Early Park Admission, complimentary transportation throughout the resort, and resort-wide charging privileges with their room key. With its blend of luxury, thematic design, and direct park access, the Universal Helios Grand Hotel offers a unique and memorable stay for visitors to Universal Orlando Resort.

Universal Orlando Hotel Levels: Prime Value – Affordable Comfort with Great Perks

With the addition of the Universal Epic Universe hotels, some changes happened to the Prima Value-level Hotels at Universal Orlando Resort. Two of the new hotels joined this list, and one former Prime Value went to a new category discussed later in this resource. As you might imagine, these hotels cost less than the Signature Collection Hotels but generally cost more than the Value Inn and Suites.

6. Universal’s Aventura Hotel

 

Universal’s Aventura Hotel is a sleek, modern retreat within Universal Orlando Resort. It offers guests a stylish and affordable stay. Situated within walking distance of Universal Volcano Bay, the hotel provides stunning views of some of the Universal Orlando theme parks. ​

The 17-story hotel features 600 contemporary rooms and suites, designed with calming natural colors and floor-to-ceiling windows that allow for ample natural light. Guests can enjoy various amenities, including a resort-style pool with a kids’ splash zone, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a game room. ​

Dining options at Aventura Hotel are diverse, with Urban Pantry offering a variety of international cuisines in a food hall setting. For a unique experience, guests can visit Bar 17 Bistro, the hotel’s rooftop bar, which serves handcrafted cocktails and small plates while providing panoramic views of the resort. ​

Staying at the Aventura Hotel comes with exclusive Universal Orlando benefits, such as Early Park Admission to select attractions, which allows guests to enter the parks up to an hour before regular opening times. Complimentary shuttle buses provide easy access to Universal Studios Florida, Universal Epic Universe, Islands of Adventure, and Universal CityWalk.​ With its modern design, convenient location, and array of amenities, Universal’s Aventura Hotel offers a refreshing and stylish option for visitors seeking a unique stay at Universal Orlando Resort.​

7. Universal’s Stella Nova Resort

Universal’s Stella Nova Resort, opened on January 21, 2025, is a cosmic-themed hotel at Universal Orlando Resort, inspired by the vastness of the universe. Located near the Universal Epic Universe theme park, the resort offers 750 rooms with sleek designs and spaceship-styled windows, accommodating up to four guests per room. ​

Guests can enjoy a 10,000-square-foot resort-style pool featuring a splash pad, hot tub, fire pit, and poolside movies. The complimentary fitness center has modern cardio and weight machines, while the game room offers various arcades and video games. ​

Dining options include the Cosmos Cafe and Market, which offers quick-service meals, the poolside Galaxy Bar and Grill, and the Nova Bar in the lobby. Pizza delivery is also available during select hours. ​

Staying at Stella Nova Resort provides exclusive benefits such as Early Park Admission to select attractions, complimentary shuttle buses to all Universal Orlando theme parks and CityWalk, resort-wide charging privileges, and complimentary merchandise delivery to the hotel. ​Guests can also take a walkway to the Universal Epic Universe theme park.

It is also conveniently located just over 10 minutes from Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure, and Universal CityWalk, with complimentary shuttle service. Stella Nova Resort offers a stellar experience for guests seeking a unique and immersive stay. ​

8. Universal’s Terra Luna Resort

Universal’s Terra Luna Resort, which opened on March 25, 2025, is a cosmic-themed hotel at Universal Orlando Resort. It offers guests an immersive experience inspired by the mysteries of the universe. Located adjacent to the Universal Epic Universe theme park, the resort provides convenient access to all Universal Orlando Resort theme parks.

​The resort features 750 standard rooms, each accommodating up to four guests. Rooms are designed with sweeping curves, terrestrial tones, and distinctive spaceship-styled windows, creating a tranquil atmosphere that evokes the feeling of exploring new worlds. This hotel looks very similar to Universal’s Stella Nova Resort as a sister hotel.

​Guests can enjoy a 10,000-square-foot resort-style pool with an interactive splash pad, large spa, relaxing hot tub, and a fire pit. Additional amenities include a state-of-the-art fitness center, game room, and various recreational activities suitable for all ages. ​Dining options at Terra Luna Resort encompass multiple venues, including the Omega Cafe and Market, offering a range of culinary delights to satisfy diverse palates. ​

Staying at Terra Luna Resort provides exclusive benefits, such as Early Park Admission to select attractions, which allows guests to enter the parks up to an hour before regular opening times. Complimentary shuttle buses offer convenient transportation to all Universal Orlando theme parks and Universal CityWalk. With its unique theming, modern amenities, and proximity to Universal’s newest theme park, Universal’s Terra Luna Resort offers an out-of-this-world experience for visitors seeking a memorable stay at Universal Orlando Resort.​

Universal Orlando Hotel Levels: Value Inns and Suites – Less Expensive with Great Amenities

This final category of Universal Orlando Resort Hotels costs the least, but that does not mean guests get very little for their money. These value-level hotels offer standard rooms with two queen beds and suites that sleep six or eight.

There are three Value Inns & Suites. Despite rooms starting at $99 during the slower time of year, these resorts still offer on-site amenities like Starbucks stores in the lobby, quick-service dining, room delivery pizza, staffed pools, pool bars, fitness centers, arcades, and Universal Orlando gift shops.

These three hotels offer the best value at Orlando area theme parks for groups of five or more to stay together. Each hotel in this category provides plenty of space for more than four people to sleep in the same hotel room.

9. Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort

Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort is the first value-level hotel built by the Universal Orlando and Loews partnership. However, defining it as just a value hotel undersells it.

Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort offers a vibrant, retro-inspired escape that combines affordability with a wealth of amenities. It is an ideal choice for families and groups visiting Universal Orlando Resort. The resort features 2,200 rooms, including standard rooms and family suites that can accommodate up to six guests. Family suites offer approximately 430 square feet of space, two queen beds, a pull-out sofa, a kitchenette with a mini-refrigerator and microwave, and a sliding privacy partition between the bedroom and living areas. However, Cabana Bay also offers suites that sleep eight in the tower areas near Volcano Bay, the water park.

Regarding Volcano Bay, Cabana Bay Beach Resort guests receive early park admission ot the water. They also have an entrance to the water park literally steps away from the hotel. Guests can enjoy two expansive pool areas: the Cabana Courtyard, featuring a dive tower-themed water slide and a large fire pit, and the Lazy River Courtyard, which includes a relaxing lazy river, zero-entry heated pools, splash pads, and white sand beaches. Additional recreational options include a 10-lane bowling alley and a game room, providing entertainment for all ages. ​

Dining at Cabana Bay is diverse, with options like the Bayliner Diner food court, the Galaxy Bowl Restaurant within the bowling alley, and the Swizzle Lounge in the lobby. A Starbucks is available on-site for coffee enthusiasts, and guests can also take advantage of in-room pizza delivery. ​

Staying at Cabana Bay Beach Resort provides exclusive benefits, including Early Park Admission to select attractions and complimentary shuttle buses to Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure, Universal Epic Universe, and Universal CityWalk. The resort’s prime location and extensive amenities offer a nostalgic yet modern experience for visitors seeking a memorable stay at Universal Orlando Resort.

10. Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites

Like Stella Nova and Terra Luna Resorts, which function as sister hotels, Surfside Inn and Suites and Dockside Inn and Suites look very similar, with Dockside being a larger property. These hotels are located across the street from one another.

​Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites offers a budget-friendly, beach-themed escape within the Universal Orlando Resort. Opened on June 27, 2019, this value hotel features 750 rooms, including standard rooms and suites that accommodate up to six guests. These are ideal for larger groups.

The resort embraces a laid-back surf vibe, reflected in its bright, beachy décor and casual atmosphere. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a large outdoor pool with sun loungers and umbrellas, a fitness center, and a game room. Dining options include the Beach Break Cafe, offering a variety of food choices, and a Starbucks for coffee lovers. ​

Staying at Surfside Inn and Suites provides exclusive benefits like Early Park Admission to select Universal Orlando theme parks and complimentary shuttle service to the parks and Universal CityWalk. With its combination of affordability, convenient location, and family-friendly amenities, Surfside Inn and Suites is an excellent choice for visitors seeking a relaxed and enjoyable stay at Universal Orlando Resort.

11. Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites

Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites is a value-oriented hotel at Universal Orlando Resort. It offers guests a coastal-themed retreat with convenient access to the theme parks. Opened on December 15, 2020, Dockside Inn and Suites features 2,050 rooms, including standard rooms and suites that can accommodate up to six guests. Suites have a kitchenette, picnic table, and separate bathroom areas, making them ideal for larger groups. ​

The resort boasts two large resort-style pools, a children’s splash area, and a fitness center. Guests can enjoy dining at the Pier 8 Market, which offers a variety of affordable options, or grab a coffee at the on-site Starbucks. Additional amenities include a game room, Universal Studios Store, and complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property. ​

Staying at Dockside Inn and Suites provides exclusive benefits such as Early Park Admission to select Universal Orlando theme parks and complimentary shuttle service to the parks and Universal CityWalk. The resort’s location, just a short drive from the theme parks, and its budget-friendly nature make it a popular choice for visitors seeking a comfortable and convenient stay at Universal Orlando Resort.

Universal Orlando Hotel Levels Explained: Ready to Plan Your Next Universal Orlando Vacation?

No matter which hotel you choose, staying on-site at Universal Orlando guarantees a seamless and immersive vacation experience, complete with early park access, convenient transportation, and uniquely themed environments that extend the magic beyond the parks. The expert staff at Universal Family Vacations can help you plan your next Universal Orlando Resort vacation at no cost to you. Guests can ask for a free no no-obligation quote today. Happy Vacation Planning!