Planning your Universal Orlando Resort vacation just got easier—and a little more exciting! Recently, Universal Orlando hotels have received a “revamp” and officially changed their levels or categories. This move simplifies your choices while introducing new options for guests heading to the home of Epic Universe.
If you’re traveling with kids, planning a multi-generational trip, or just want to know which hotel is the best fit for your crew, we’ve got you covered.
Planning a Universal Vacation?
Whether you’re planning your first Universal vacation or returning for another adventure, our Explore Universal Destinations guide is a great place to start. You’ll find helpful planning information for Universal Orlando Resort, Universal Studios Hollywood, and more, including tips on tickets, resorts, attractions, and ways to make the most of your time.
👉 Explore Universal Destinations Hub
What Changed?
Universal Orlando hotels have retired the older hotel classification system (Value, Prime Value, Preferred, and Premier) and introduced three streamlined categories:
- Value
- Prime Value
- Signature
Let’s break down what that means for you and your vacation budget.
Value Hotels: Budget-Friendly, Family-Focused
If you’re traveling with kids or a large group and want plenty of space without breaking the bank, Universal’s Value hotels are the perfect match.
Hotels in this category include:
- Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites
- Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites
- Cabana Bay Beach Resort
Standard rooms at these resorts start around $96/night during off-peak seasons, with family suites averaging $144/night. During peak travel dates, you can expect to see standard room rates up to $215/night, with family suites around $240/night.
Both Endless Summer resorts and Cabana Bay offer spacious family suites that sleep up to six guests, making them ideal for larger families. Cabana Bay adds even more value with its retro flair and incredible pool area. It features a lazy river that’s a hit with kids and adults alike. Bring your inner tube!
Prime Value Hotels: Affordable Modern Comfort
Looking for a little more polish while staying close to the action? Universal’s Prime Value hotels offer modern design and convenient access to all the parks.
Current Prime Value hotels include:
- Aventura Hotel
- Terra Luna Resort (NEW, near Epic Universe)
- Stella Nova Resort (NEW, near Epic Universe)
Room rates at Prime Value resorts typically range from $164 to $358/night, depending on your travel dates. With sleek, contemporary style and easy transportation options to the parks, these hotels are a favorite for couples and families looking for upgraded amenities without premium pricing.
Signature Hotels: Luxury, Perks & Proximity
The new Signature category combines Universal’s most luxurious accommodations and guest perks, with a few important distinctions.
Signature Resorts include:
- Loews Sapphire Falls Resort
- Loews Royal Pacific Resort
- Hard Rock Hotel
- Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
- Helios Grand Hotel (NEW, adjacent to Epic Universe)
The average price per night at a Signature resort is $450-$700/night depending on the time of year. Helios Grand is truly special—it sits essentially inside Epic Universe and offers a dedicated entrance to the new park.
Signature Hotel Differences
Signature hotels provide bus transportation to all Universal parks; Helios Grand guests walk right into Epic for unmatched convenience. Additionally, the other 4 Signature hotels offer water taxi service to CityWalk and the original 2 parks as part of Universal’s complimentary transportation.
Four of these Signature hotels—Royal Pacific, Hard Rock, and Portofino Bay and Helios Grand—include Free Universal Express Unlimited for all guests. This is valid at Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure.
This skip-the-line perk is a major value-add, especially during busy seasons.
⚠️ Note: Epic Universe is not currently included in Express Unlimited, but Express passes can be purchased separately for that park.
Sapphire Falls is the only Signature hotel not offering Express Pass and is the most budget-friendly in the category. However, it still delivers beautiful surroundings and water taxi access to the original two parks.
Most Signature hotels (excluding Sapphire Falls) offer club-level rooms with concierge service. Enjoy snacks, beverages, and elevated amenities. Plus on-site table-service dining is available—perfect for travelers looking to unwind in style.
For information on current promotional savings and exclusive packages to Universal Orlando Resort, click HERE. Find details on 2026 events and promotions HERE.
Continue Planning Your Universal Vacation
Ready to keep planning? These guides can help you take the next step toward your Universal vacation:
- Explore Universal Destinations – Start here for our complete Universal vacation planning resources.
- Universal Tickets Guide – Compare ticket options and learn what you need to know before purchasing.
- Universal Orlando Resort Guide – Explore Universal Orlando’s hotels and find the right resort for your stay.
- Is Universal Express Pass Worth It? – Learn how Express Pass works and whether it’s worth adding to your vacation.
- Universal VIP Tour Review – Get a firsthand look at the VIP Tour experience and what you can expect.
Ready to Plan Your Trip?
You’ve done the research—now let us help you turn your plans into an amazing vacation!
✈️ Need help planning?
Reach out to our friends at DizN Vacations for help booking and planning your Disney or Universal vacation. Their team can help you navigate the options, find the right fit for your family, and make the planning process easier.
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