Best Universal Orlando Hotels for Families

Your family has been looking forward to a Universal Orlando vacation all year!

The kiddos are imagining fun themed rooms and stepping out of their hotel room and into the adventure of a theme park. But parents are looking for space and enough bathrooms and sinks to keep everyone sane and happy. Can Universal deliver on both? Let’s see!

Universal has grown from a single 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 of those eight hotels is the best for families? Universal’s hotels come in four price categories — Premier, Preferred, Prime Value, and Value hotels. Today, we’re taking a look at the best resorts for families!

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel

Loews Portofino Bay is a Premier Hotel situated right on a lagoon and has cobblestone streets and towering Cyprus trees, featuring everything you would expect to see in the countryside of Italy. If you have a minion lover in your family, then consider getting a Despicable Me suite for your stay.

Staying at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel brings amazing park perks, from the Universal Express Unlimited access pass to receiving your merchandise directly at your hotel. Take advantage of the free boat and bus transportation to and from the parks, plus priority seating at participating restaurants. The suites range from 650 square feet to 2,725 square feet. Despicable Me Kids’ Suites offer a special Minion-themed bedroom for the little ones.

Portofino Bay also offers families three pools. The most popular and kid-friendly option is the Beach Pool. It also features 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 the many shopping sites for Italian resort wear and Universal merchandise. And, if you really want to eat like an Italian, don’t miss Bice Ristorante or Mama Della’s Ristorante. You may even get to experience some Italian music and song!

Hard Rock Cafe Hotel

At another Premier hotel, the Hard Rock Hotel, a 12,000 square-foot pool will keep kids swimming all day long. Families will also love relaxing poolside with some of their favorite tunes playing in the background. There are also two hot tubs, ideal for parents after a long day exploring the parks. Additionally, there are four restaurants to choose from. Live like royalty in a King Suite offering a bonus entertainment area with a dining room table and pull-out sofa. Hospitality Suites include a full dining room table, a wet bar with a service pantry, and a sofa. If you’d rather live like a king, the Graceland Suites provide amenities, including an oversized tub, walk-in closet, glass-encased double-sided fireplace, and a baby grand piano. Plus, add a connecting room to any suite for even more luxe living space.

Try The Palm Restaurant if you’re looking for a good steak dinner! When it comes to amenities, families will love the perks that come with staying here. Enjoy Universal Express Unlimited access to rides, merchandise delivery, priority seating at participating restaurants, and easy access to Universal Studios, and Islands of Adventure through free transportation on-site.

The Ultimate Guide to the Hotels at Universal Orlando Resort

Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort

Featuring two massive pools, a lazy river, and a 10-lane bowling alley, it may be hard to actually leave the resort for the parks. So, if your fingers are pruning and the kids need a break from the water, then enjoy one of many billiard tables located around the pool or head inside for some bowling. If casual dining is in the plans, then make sure to take advantage of the many casual spots located on-site.

Parents will love having Starbucks on-site, so they can properly prepare for a long day in the parks. These 430-square-foot rooms sleep up to 6 with two queen beds and a pull-out sofa, and include a sliding privacy partition. Maximize your time with a compartmentalized bathroom that lets three people get ready at once. Each suite features a kitchenette with mini refrigerator, microwave, and sink. Certainly, 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 Universal’s Endless Summer Resort- Surfside Inn and Suites. Or, the sister resort, Dockside Inn and Suites. Combined, the resorts offer a total of 2800 rooms, almost half of which are two-bedroom suites ideal for larger families.

A stay here also comes with park perks. In fact, you’ll get free Universal transportation and early park entry to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Both resorts offer large pools, splash pads, and also ample seating, ideal for relaxing your tired feet. Families will also find plenty of dining options for quick-service meals to enjoy after a tiring day in the parks. Shuttle buses are available to take you to Universal Orlando theme parks.

FULL TOUR: 2-Bedroom Suite at Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn

Universal Resorts have suites and rooms that accommodate family needs to rest, space, and access to fun! And there is a resort for every budget. Which will you choose?

We Stayed At One of Universal’s FANCIEST Resorts

Have you stayed at any of these resort hotels? Which do you think is the best for families? Let us know in the comments below!

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