Universal Orlando Resort is a unique destination. Just like knowing the ends and outs of a Walt Disney World vacation, Universal is no different.
Getting to know what is at Universal Orlando
It’s key to understand the size of Universal Orlando. While it is considerably smaller than Walt Disney World, it packs a lot of action in a smaller footprint. Universal Orlando is comprised of three theme parks and one water park (They will say four theme parks but one is really a water park). The main campus boasts: Universal Studios Orlando, Islands of Adventure, Universal CityWalk (the shopping and entertaintment district), along with most of the resorts hotels surrounding it and Volcano Bay water park. Across the expressway (I-4) is the newest park EPIC Universe and a few additional hotels. All of Universal’s partner hotels are owned and operated by Loews Hotels. Those resorts vary in amenities and price point.
Unlike Walt Disney World, guests staying at a certain hotel tier, Premier, can receive Unlimited Express Pass to the original two theme parks (Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios). At this time, the Unlimited Express benefit is not carried over to EPIC Universe. This means that any time a guest has a valid park ticket during any part of their hotel stay, they can utilize the Express lines in the original two theme parks for an unlimited amount of times (Unlimited Express Pass). This Express Pass benefits includes the check-in and out days of a reservation (as long as the guest also has a valid park ticket). This Unlimited Express Pass benefit, as well as the proximity to the parks, make the Premier hotels a great value for families looking to maximize their time and budget.
Current Premier Hotel levels includes: Loews Hard Rock, Loews Royal Pacific, and Loews Portofino Bay. If you are a family that wants to maximize your time in the parks, these hotels not only provide convenient location and amenities but they are the only ones that offer the Unlimited Express benefit. Unlimited Express can be very costly if you purchase out of pocket, which is why it’s always worth considering one of these resorts for your stay.
Staying on property gives you convenient access to the parks through the various transportation methods and gives you early entry to the parks. You also can purchase items and have them sent directly to your resort hotel! Resorts like Hard Rock Hotel and Grand Helios give you such close access to the parks you can actually walk! (Hard Rock is walkable to the Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. Helios dedicated entrance into EPIC Universe. )
Regardless of which Universal Orlando Loews Hotel you stay, you will still need to follow the following check-in and ticket process:
This is just the tip of the iceberg on the Universal Orlando experience. Knowing the logistics of the resort is key to setting up your family for the best vacation and within your budget. Staying at the wrong hotel for your families needs and budget can make or break your vacation and overall experience in destination.
If you want to explore the possibility of a Universal Orlando vacation (as well as Hollywood and Frisco, TX), I am here for you! Blair@wickemousetravel.com to get started or go here to get started.
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