Which Universal Orlando Resort is right for you?

One of the best things about visiting Universal Orlando and staying on property is the location. Universal has 3 deluxe hotels located walking distance from City Walk and both theme parks. All three hotels are 4-Diamond properties and offer many perks for resort guests. These perks include priority restaurant and show seating, early park admission to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, resort wide charging, merchandise delivery to your room, resort shuttle and water taxi transportation to the parks and probably the most popular benefit – FREE Universal Express Unlimited. Universal Express Unlimited is a way for you to skip the line at most attractions as many times as you would like!

In July, Universal will be opening the new Cabana Bay Beach Resort. This will be a value/moderate level hotel that will provide family suites in addition to standard rooms. This property will have all of the same perks as the deluxe properties with the exception of the free Universal Express Unlimited.

With all of these great options, how can you decide which property is best for you? Here is a brief overview of your options.

Portofino Bay – This hotel celebrates la dolce vita (the sweet life). Portofino Bay Hotel is a replica of the seaside Italian city of Portofino. From cobblestone streets to outdoor cafes, you will feel as if you have been transported to Italy. These are the largest standard rooms on property starting at 450 square feet. Children will love the ‘Despicable Me’ themed Kid’s Suites and the 3 pool areas. Adults will appreciate the Mandara Spa and upscale dining options including Bice Ristorante. Whether you’re traveling on your honeymoon or with grandparents and children, Portofino Bay is a hotel that everyone can enjoy.

Hard Rock Hotel – If you’ve ever wanted to live like a rock star, then the Hard Rock Hotel is for you! The resort resembles a posh California style rock and roll mansion. There is over $1 million in authentic memorabilia around the hotel and the sound track is always playing fun, upbeat music. The pool features an underwater sound system (in fact, you can almost hear the music BETTER under the water!). With rooms starting at 375 square feet, you’ll have plenty of room for the entire family. In my opinion, the best thing about this hotel is LOCATION. The Hard Rock Hotel offers the shortest walk to City Walk and the Universal Parks.

Royal Pacific – Fly away to the South Seas at Royal Pacific Hotel! And you’re not only transported to the tropics, but back in time to the 1930s from the moment you check-in. These rooms are smaller at 335 square feet but still plenty of room for families. Kids will love the “Jurassic Park” themed Kid’s Suites, the ship water feature in the pool area, the luau held 2-3 times a week and the children’s dining area in Islands Dining Room (complete with kid sized table and chairs, flat screens playing cartoons and a Bali-style play area). Parents will love the value provided by staying at this hotel.

Cabana Bay Beach Resort – Opening in July 2014, Universal will now have a value/moderate level resort to offer guests. Reminiscent of the beach resorts of the 1950’s and 60’s, this resort will transport your family to an era of fun! Cabana Bay will offer family suites as well as standard rooms. There will be 2 themed pools with sand beaches and zero entry, a lazy river, complimentary fitness center and a 10-lane bowling alley. This hotel offers value and more options for larger families.

There is so much to see and do at the Universal Resort in Orlando. Incredible thrill rides like Rip Ride Rockit, immersive themed lands like the Wizarding World of Harry Potter Hogsmeade Village, entertainment options like the Blue Man Group, and fun dining experiences including the world’s largest Hard Rock Café – there truly is something for everyone!

Don’t miss out on a minute of the fun! Contact me today to plan your Universal Orlando vacation! Email me at Amy@TravelWithTheMagic.com or you can find me on Facebook. You can also call me at 1-800-670-4312, ext 129. I can’t wait to plan your MAGICAL vacation!