Your family has been waiting for a Universal Orlando vacation every year!
Kids are thinking of fun themed rooms and going out of their hotel room and into the museum. But parents are looking for a place with enough bathrooms and sinks to keep everyone happy and healthy. Can Universal afford both? Let’s see!
Universal has grown from one theme park to two theme parks, a water park, and eight hotels. And in 2025, Universal will open a third theme park in Florida – Epic Universe. So, which eight hotels are the best for families? Universal hotels come in four price categories – Premier, Preferred, Prime Value, and Value hotels. Today, we’re looking for the perfect family vacation spot!
Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
Loews Portofino Bay is a premier beachfront hotel with cobblestone streets and Cypriot trees, with everything you’d expect from the Italian countryside. If you have minion favorites in your family, consider getting a Despicable Me suite for your stay.
A stay at the Loews Portofino Bay Hotel brings all the perks of the park, from Universal Express Unlimited passes to receiving your merchandise directly at your hotel. Get free ferry and bus rides to and from the parks, as well as priority seating at participating restaurants. Suites range from 650 square feet to 2,725 square feet. Despicable Me Kids’ Suites offer a special Minion-themed room for the little ones.
Portofino Bay also offers families three pools. The most popular and ideal option for children is the Beach Pool. It also has a Roman Aqueduct-themed water slide and a sandy beach. Parents will appreciate the two hot tubs for a little relaxation, the on-site spa, and plenty of shopping for Italian clothing and Universal merchandise. And, if you really want to eat like an Italian, don’t miss Bice Ristorante or Mama Della’s Ristorante. You can also get to know Italian music and songs!
Hard Rock Cafe Hotel
At another Premier hotel, the Hard Rock Hotel, a 12,000 square-foot pool keeps kids swimming all day. Families can also enjoy relaxing by the pool with their favorite music playing in the background. There are also two hot tubs, perfect for parents after a long day exploring the parks. In addition, there are four restaurants to choose from. Live like royalty in the King Suite offering a bonus entertaining space with a dining room table and pullout sofa. Hospitality Suites have a full table, dining room, wet room with work area, and sofa. If you prefer to live like a king, the Graceland Suites offer amenities, including a large tub, a bedroom, a glass fireplace, and a grand piano. In addition, add a connecting room to any room with a high ceiling.
Try The Palm Restaurant if you want a good steak meal! When it comes to amenities, families will love the benefits that come with living here. Enjoy Universal Express Unlimited boarding, shipping, priority seating at participating restaurants, and access to Universal Studios, and Islands of Adventure via free on-site transportation.
The Ultimate Guide to Hotels at Universal Orlando Resort
Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort
With two large pools, a lazy river, and a 10-lane bowling alley, it can be difficult to get from the park to the park. So, if your toes are aching and the kids need a break from the water, enjoy one of the many pool tables around the pool or head inside for a break. If casual dining is in the plans, be sure to take advantage of the many on-site dining options.
Parents will love having a Starbucks on site, so they can get ready for a long day at the parks. The 430-square-foot rooms sleep up to 6 with two queen beds and a pull-out sofa, and include a private area. Increase your time with a bathroom with compartments that allow three people to get ready at the same time. Each room has a kitchenette with a mini fridge, microwave, and sink. Definitely, Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort is one of the best Universal Orlando hotels for families!
Universal’s Endless Summer Resort- Surfside Inn and Suites & Dockside Inn and Suites
Budget-conscious families will love their stay at the Universal Endless Summer Resort- Surfside Inn and Suites. Or, sister resort, Dockside Inn and Suites. In total, the resort has a total of 2800 rooms, almost half of which are two bedroom suites ideal for large families.
Living here also comes with park amenities. Instead, you’ll get free Universal passes and early park entry to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Both areas have large pools, splash pads, and ample seating, perfect for resting your weary feet. Families will also find plenty of fast food options to enjoy after a tiring day at the parks. Shuttle buses are available to take you to Universal Orlando theme parks.
ENTIRE TOUR: 2-Bedroom Suite at Universal Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn
The World Restaurant has suites and rooms that accommodate families who need rest, space, and a chance to have fun! And there are resorts for every budget. Which one will you choose?
We stayed at one of Universal’s Best Restaurants
Join the AllEars.net Newsletter for free tours of Universal Studios Florida! Click here to get started!
Have you stayed at any of these hotels? Which one do you think is best for families? Tell us in the comments below!
