Take your family to Universal Studios Orlando and enjoy so many great characters, thrill rides, restaurants, and shows. There is so much to do in Universal Studios Orlando; if you haven’t been yet, it’s time to go. More often than not, when people travel to Orlando, they focus only on Disney, but this is a big mistake. Universal owns many beloved IPs like Harry Potter, and it is only at Universal Studios that you’ll find top attractions like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Luxury Hotels for Your Universal Studios Orlando Trip:
You don’t need to book a plain, boring hotel just to save. There are many luxury hotels out there available at great rates, so you can get the best of both worlds on your next family trip to Universal Studios Orlando.
1. Westgate Palace Resort:
This recently renovated all-suite resort is less than one mile from Universal Orlando Resort.
The West Gate Palace Resort on International Drive is an all-suite resort recently renovated top to bottom. You’ll enjoy a fresh, chic hotel that immediately makes it feel like you are on a luxury experience.
The hotel is less than a mile away from Universal Studios Orlando Resort, and a short 7.2 miles from Walt Disney World, if you’re planning on splitting your trip between the two theme parks. You could even walk to Wet’n’Wild Orlando to cool off and have fun.
Each two-bedroom suite comes with two bedrooms and a living room with a pull-out sofa bed so that it can fit up to six people comfortably. The suites all come with a fully-fitted kitchen, and the bathrooms have whirlpool tubs for added decadence.
Onsite you’ll be able to enjoy a heated outdoor pool, a wading pool, a steam room, a gym, and sports courts. There is also a free shuttle service that will take you to Universal Studios Orlando, so you can quickly get right to the height of all the action.
2. Universal’s Loews Portofino Bay Hotel:
For a luxury hotel that takes you all the way to Italy, book the Loews Portofino Bay Hotel in Universal.
This resort has been modeled after the infamous Portofino village in Italy. It looks like several waterfront Italian buildings and has the same laid-back feel you want from a luxury trip to Italy.
While it is just stepping away from Universal Studios Orlando, there is plenty to do and enjoy onsite too. Book a spa resort, use the sauna and steam room and then relax by the pool. Between these luxurious facilities and the proximity to the many thrills you can have in Universal, you’ll be able to easily fill up your days with unforgettable moments.
3. B Resort and Spa:
Book the affordable yet luxurious B Resort and Spa for a chic, beautiful hotel that doesn’t break the bank.
This resort is one of the furthest options on this list, but it does offer great rates for its rooms. Each room has its own balcony, and you’ll have access to a beautiful and intimate pool. What makes this hotel particularly stand out is that it is the only AVEDA lifestyle spa provider in Orlando, so you can treat yourself to special relaxation services and spa packages between visits to Universal.
The spa even has special treatments for young kids so that the whole family can get pampered. Take the time to slow down on your own balcony or lounge poolside, and you’ll be able to plan the ultimate trip to Orlando.
4. Westgate Lakes Resort and Spa:
Another Westgate resort that offers luxury amenities and great ways to save is this Westgate Lakes Resort and Spa.
This resort offers large villas that can house large families comfortably in one space to help you spread out the cost and save by taking full advantage of the onsite kitchen. To save further, simply get more out of the many luxuries. Instead of going to a Disney or Universal waterpark, for example, spend your time at the seven outdoor pools, six hot tubs, and the onsite Treasure Cove Water Park.
Remember to book a spa package and take advantage of the whirlpool tub in your room to increase the sense of luxury. Book small studios all the way to large four-bedroom suites to keep your entire family in one place when you book your stay here.
When you book here, you’ll be just 4 miles from Universal Orlando. If you want to split your time, don’t worry because this resort is perfectly positioned between both Universal and Disney.
5. Buena Vista Suites:
This beautiful resort is known for its beautiful design and is a great place for a peaceful retreat.
If your idea of luxury is to slow down and embrace the quiet while still being close enough to Universal and Disney, then Buena Vista Suites is the right hotel for you. You’ll get a complimentary breakfast buffet, can play at the full-size basketball and tennis courts, and can enjoy seasonal activities like Movies Under the Stars.
You won’t be far from all the action, either. This hotel is located near Universal and Disney resorts, so you can get the best of both worlds.
6. Caribe Royale Orlando:
This stunning pink hotel is one of the most striking hotels in the ist and has large waterfall features dotting the landscape.
If you want a truly memorable vacation, book a room at the Caribe Royale. This hotel is in the heart of Orlando and blends home comforts with unbeatable amenities. There are three outdoor swimming pools, many excellent seasonal activities for the kids, and six onsite dining options. If you want to up the luxury, book a cabana for a relaxing day by the pool.
For the best experience, remember to upgrade to one of the newly renovated suites of villas. These can house larger groups and are tastefully decorated to help you relax and enjoy that luxury feel without the luxury budget.
On top of a great room, you’ll also be able to book spa packages. Get pampered, and then lounge next to the lagoon-style pool to enjoy an amazing time. In terms of dining, this hotel features a Venetian-themed restaurant to take you to the wonderful world of Italy without leaving your hotel’s property.
Things to Do In Universal Studios Orlando:
There are so many amazing things to do at Universal Orlando. On top of Harry Potter, you’ll also find Jurassic World attractions and many other fun attractions and rides. When visiting in summer and hot temperatures, aim to do all the indoor rides and activities first to beat the heat until the sun passes overhead and there’s more shade to stay cool in.
Of course, you will also be able to stay cool at one of Universal’s many waterparks, like Volcano Bay.
How to Save on Your Family Trip?
One of the best ways to get more out of your family trip is to save ahead of time. If you can stretch out your budget and balance out the costs before you go, you’ll be able to spend more on meals, souvenirs, and experiences. You don’t need to go to the most budget-friendly, no-frills option to save. Instead, use these tips to get great deals even at a luxury hotel.
Check for Promotions Before You Book:
Always check for promotions before booking, no matter what hotel you are considering. You may need to sign up for the hotel’s loyalty program to see all available promotions and special rates. If you join Westgate’s free World of Westgate loyalty program, for example, you’ll immediately gain access to special rates and promotions available only to members.
Stay in One Room:
If you want to stay in luxury accommodations and save, you will want to book just one room. If you have a large family, this may mean upgrading from a room to a suite or even a villa. When you work out the cost-per-person, suites and villas are usually cheaper than booking multiple rooms.
Prepare Your Own Meals:
Dining out can end up costing a lot, so a good way to save is to minimize how often you eat out. Instead of eating out for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, for example, you can make your own meals for breakfast and lunch (outside food can be brought into the theme parks) and then go out to eat for dinner. This option is even available to those who don’t have kitchen spaces since you can make cold breakfasts and sandwiches with minimal equipment and will, usually, have a mini-fridge in your room.
