Introduction
If you plan a vacation to Orlando, FL, you likely want to visit one of the main Orlando theme parks like Universal Studios Orlando. Whether traveling with your family or a group of friends, Universal Studios will surely bring the fun you expect.
However, one of the hardest parts of planning a trip to Universal Orlando is finding the best resort near Universal for your stay. Do you want luxurious spa treatments, family-friendly suites, or a resort near the parks?
In this post, we’ll compare four top-rated resorts near Universal Orlando: Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa, DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal, Universal’s Endless Summer Resort, and Marriott’s Grande Vista. Our team has evaluated six key aspects of a great resort near Universal Studios to help you find the perfect home base for your Universal adventure. Let’s dive in and discover which resort is the best fit for your dream getaway.
What To Look For In A Resort Near Universal Studios
Staying close to the parks is a major benefit, but the overall experience of your stay is just as important. Room size, transportation, and amenities all matter. Choose a resort that fits your family size, travel style, and vibe.
Resorts with complimentary shuttles, large suites or villas with kitchens, and family or spa-friendly extras can make your vacation even better. Always check for resort fees and hidden costs, and review past guest feedback for honest insights.
Look for Universal package deals, early booking discounts, or bundled park ticket offers to maximize your value. A pro tip is always to look for hidden fees like resort charges or parking costs, since these small costs can add up quickly.
This comparison breaks down the top resorts to help you find the best value for your stay.
Comparing The Top Resorts Near Universal Orlando
Before you book, it’s worth comparing what each resort offers in real terms, and not just in pictures. From booking perks to on-site activities, this side-by-side breakdown helps you make the smartest choice for your stay, based on your needs. You’ll see which properties offer the best flexibility, the strongest value, and the most peace of mind for every type of traveler.
Booking & Pricing
No one wants to commit to a resort and then feel stuck or overcharged. We broke down cancellation policies, member benefits, and price ranges to give you control and confidence when booking. Whether you're looking for budget-friendly or bundled luxury, these details help you avoid regrets and secure the best deal for your stay.
Look for Universal package deals, early booking discounts, or bundled park ticket offers to maximize your value. A pro tip is always to look for hidden fees like resort charges or parking costs, since these small costs can add up quickly.
This comparison breaks down the top resorts to help you find the best value for your stay.
Item | Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa | DoubleTree by Hilton | Universal Endless Summer | Marriott's Grande Vista |
---|---|---|---|---|
Free Cancellation | Up to 7 days before arrival | Usually 72 hours before | Available for most rooms | Within 15 days of purchase |
Best Rate Guarantee | Yes, for direct bookings | Hilton Honors guarantee | Universal member pricing | Marriott Bonvoy pricing |
Exclusive Member Pricing | World of Westgate discounts | Hilton Honors rates | Early park access offers | Bonvoy exclusive pricing |
Overview of Pricing | Villas from $99/night | $93–$133 standard rooms | Budget-friendly 2BR suites | Packages from $399/5 days |
Orlando Vacation Packages | Universal vacation packages, waterpark vacation packages, family vacation packages | Packages with breakfast/shuttle | Hotel + ticket bundles | Some with timeshare req. |
Traveler Types
Not every resort is made for every guest. Are you bringing kids? Traveling as a couple? Hoping to bring your pet along? This section lets you find the resort that matches your lifestyle and makes sure your specific needs whether it’s spa days, splash zones, or pet-friendly policies are met with zero compromise.
It’s important to think about your travel style and whether you want an adventurous, relaxed, or convenience-focused vacation.
Let’s take a look at different accommodations to help you find the right resort for your upcoming stay!
Item | Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa | DoubleTree by Hilton | Universal Endless Summer | Marriott's Grande Vista |
---|---|---|---|---|
Pet-Friendly | Yes, fees apply | Yes, by request | Service animals only | Service animals only |
Family Friendly | Villas, water park, kids club | Child pool, kids' zone | 2BR suites, family dining | Playground, kids' pools |
Couples Activities | Serenity Spa, Poolside Bar, lakefront dining | Hot tub, upgraded rooms | Poolside relaxation | Adult pools, spa services |
Room Features
Your room is more than a place to sleep, it’s your recharge zone. Whether you need extra space, a kitchen for picky eaters, or a lakefront view to unwind after a busy park day, this chart breaks down what to expect. These details can elevate your entire vacation from stressful to seamless.
In-room amenities like free Wi-Fi, mini-fridges, microwaves, and balconies can enhance your experience. Some resorts even offer themed rooms or premium upgrades, giving your Universal vacation an extra dose of fun and relaxation.
In this section, we compared room features of the top resorts to highlight their unique features to help you find the perfect stay.
Item | Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa | DoubleTree by Hilton | Universal Endless Summer | Marriott's Grande Vista |
---|---|---|---|---|
Villa Options | Studios to 4BR villas | Suites only | Standard + 2BR suites | 1–3BR villas w/ kitchens |
Lakefront Views | Many villas lakefront | City or pool views | Pool views only | Some lake/golf views |
Room Upgrades | Premium villas, upgrades | PURE allergy-friendly rooms | Limited upgrade options | Premium location upgrades |
Location & Transportation
No matter who you are traveling with or how long you stay near Universal, you will want to consider the amount of time you need to travel between Universal Orlando and your resort. Many resorts near Universal Studios offer complimentary shuttles to the parks to save you time, money, and hassle.
Be sure to check out past guest reviews to see how reliable shuttle service is, and if there is easy rideshare access when needed.
Staying nearby means you can get to the parks early, take mid-day breaks, and avoid parking fees, adding both convenience and value to your Universal vacation experience. .
Item | Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa | DoubleTree by Hilton | Universal Endless Summer | Marriott's Grande Vista |
---|---|---|---|---|
Free Parking | Yes, ample space | Valet/self-parking (fees) | Daily fee for self-parking | Yes, near villas |
Shuttle To Universal | Yes, reserve ahead | Free shuttle to parks | Free shuttle daily | No dedicated shuttle |
Uber & Lyft | Onsite pickup/dropoff | Available at entrance | Designated zones | Main entrance |
Bicycle Rentals | Yes, for trails | Not available | Not available | Not available |
EV Charging | Yes, on-site | Yes, parking area | None listed | None listed |
Amenities
Amenities can make your stay near Universal Orlando even better by turning a simple resort stay into a true vacation experience. Look for resorts that offer resort-style pools, lazy rivers, hot tubs, and on-site dining.
All of these amenities add value to your vacation because you are able to stay on the resort property and still have a great time with your family and friends!
Some properties include spas, arcades, or even themed kids’ areas. Convenient extras such as shuttle service to the parks, grocery delivery, and concierge help can also make your trip smoother, more relaxing, and more enjoyable from start to finish.
Item | Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa | DoubleTree by Hilton | Universal Endless Summer | Marriott's Grande Vista |
---|---|---|---|---|
Wi-Fi | Free for guests & members | Free throughout | Free standard Wi-Fi | Free in villas & public areas |
Pool | 7 heated pools, Treasure Cove Water Park | Jr. Olympic pool | Surfboard pool | Multiple pools |
Fitness Center | Modern, full equipment | 24-hour gym | Standard gym | Cardio, weights, classes |
Mini Golf | Yes, 18-hole | No | No | Yes |
Water Park | Yes, pirate-themed | No | No | No |
Kids Pool Area | Yes, splash zones | Yes, splash pad | Yes, family-friendly | Yes, near main pool |
Pools Overview | 7 pools, adult/kid/family | 1 large pool | 2 pools, no cabanas | 4 pools incl. lap, kids |
Spa & Fitness | Serenity Spa has a Full spa & sauna | No spa | No spa | Yes, wellness classes |
Shopping Access | Marketplace, nearby malls | Gift shop, near outlets | Gift shop, near Universal | Marketplace, near outlets |
Boat Rentals | Paddle, kayak, pontoon | No | No | Bumper boats, kayaks |
Dining
Food is part of the experience, not just a necessity. You shouldn’t have to leave the resort to find something delicious—or something your kids will actually eat. This section explores your on-site dining choices, so you can stay well-fed without sacrificing quality, mood, or convenience. For even more options, check out our guide to the best restaurants at Universal Studios CityWalk, where you’ll discover a world of flavors just steps away from the park.
In-room amenities like free Wi-Fi, mini-fridges, microwaves, and balconies can enhance your experience. Some resorts even offer themed rooms or premium upgrades, giving your Universal vacation an extra dose of fun and relaxation.
In this section, we compared room features of the top resorts to highlight their unique features to help you find the perfect stay.
Item | Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa | DoubleTree by Hilton | Universal Endless Summer | Marriott's Grande Vista |
---|---|---|---|---|
Pool-side Bars | Yes, multiple | Yes | Yes | Yes |
On-site Restaurants | Casual + fine dining | 3 restaurants + café | Food court + pool bar | Grill + Starbucks |
Dining Atmosphere | Lakefront + sports bar | Casual + lounge | Surf-theme, quick bites | Indoor/outdoor family |
Kid-Friendly Dining | Pizza, burgers, menus | Kids' menu and seating | Quick service, snacks | Ice cream, snacks |