Universal Orlando currently has eight on-site hotels that provide guests with easy access to the fun of Universal’s theme parks, and will add three more next year to accommodate the influx of guests likely to flock to Orlando when Universal Epic Universe, the resort’s newest theme park, opens in 2025. Epic Universe will be built on a 750-acre site a few miles from Universal’s existing parks and hotels and will nearly double the size of Universal Orlando Resort, further exacerbating the need for additional hotels.
Opening dates, pricing and themes for two of these resorts, Universal Stella Nova Resort and Universal Terra Luna Resort, were announced earlier this year. On Thursday, Universal announced details of the Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a palatial hotel in inside Epic universe.
Yes, the Universal Helios Grand Hotel is a theme park hotel, the first of its kind at Universal Orlando.
In a press release, Universal called the hotel “the crown jewel of Epic Universe and the pinnacle of Universal Orlando’s hotel experiences.”
Because of its proximity, the hotel has a private entrance to Epic Universe, reserved exclusively for Universal Grand Helios guests. This is one of the other benefits that all Universal hotel guests enjoy, such as one hour early entry to the theme park, free shuttle transportation, charging privileges throughout the resort, free merchandise delivery and more.
The new theme park will include areas dedicated to popular movies and video games, including Super Nintendo, How to Train Your Dragon, Universal Classic Monsters, Harry Potter and more. There will also be a completely original concept called Celestial Park.
The Universal Helios Grand Hotel will be located at the back edge of Celestial Park, overlooking the grounds’ fountains, gardens and cosmic attractions. In the press release, Universal described the hotel, which will be co-owned and operated by Loews Hotels & Co., as a “majestic, Mediterranean-inspired retreat” that is “inspired by the astronomical and mythological themes of Celestial Park.”
Even the hotel’s name is borrowed from Greek mythology: Helios is the Greek sun god. The hotel is designed as his palace, with architecture and design elements decorated with celestial patterns and constellations.
The hotel’s lobby and rooftop bar offer some of the best views of Epic Universe. The only way to beat the view is to sit on a speeding roller coaster. During the day, you’ll see the awe-inspiring, colorful lands in all their glory. And at night, you’ll be able to see the park in a whole new light. Stardust Racers’ lighting is designed to make the competing coaster cars look like comets soaring through the night sky. Universal also previously shared that every night, at dusk, the park will “transform” from day to night with lights and music.
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Guests of the Universal Helios Grand Hotel have a front row seat to these unique stargazing events.
A blend of sophistication and casualness, guest rooms at this hotel are decorated in soft tones and floral accents, creating the feeling of stepping into a watercolor painting. All rooms and suites are also equipped with tablets that allow guests to digitally control curtains, lights and thermostats, and order room service.
Several of the rooms overlook Epic Universe, providing breathtaking views even when you return to your room for a break from the park. The hotel also features club-level rooms with access to a private lounge, continental breakfast, evening hors d’oeuvres and personalized concierge service.
Several Universal Orlando hotels have family suites themed after Despicable Me and Jurassic World, and Universal Helios Grand Hotel is no exception. The hotel will have 14 How to Train Your Dragon kids’ suites, with a dragon mural behind the beds and furniture inspired by the Viking village of Berk from the films.
Hotel guests can choose from several dining options, and Bar Helios is set to become an instant favorite. This rooftop bar serves a selection of tapas, familiar classics and handcrafted cocktails that guests can enjoy while taking in stunning 360-degree views of Epic Universe.
Lotus Lagoon will be the resort’s poolside bar and grill, serving cocktails, soft drinks and simple meals such as burgers, salads and sandwiches.
Flora Taverna, a full-service bar and restaurant located just off the lobby, features an open kitchen that prepares Mediterranean dishes and oven-baked pizza. In addition to indoor seating, guests can also dine al fresco, further enjoying views of Celestial Park.
Also in the lobby, guests can start their day at Aurora Market. This fast-food and café restaurant offers grab-and-go options as well as snacks and desserts. Although it is not specifically mentioned in the press release, the hotel is expected to offer a selection of Starbucks coffee beverages, similar to other Universal hotels.
Guests can cool off on Orlando’s hot summer (and spring, fall and winter) days at the zero-entry resort-style pool. The pool area will feature underwater speakers, poolside cabana rentals, a hot tub, poolside movies, daily games and activities and more.
Like other Universal hotels, the Universal Helios Grand Hotel will feature a fitness center, game room and Universal Orlando gift shop.
The 500-room resort is scheduled to open in 2025, though Universal has not yet announced an official opening date. Universal Stella Nova Resort is scheduled to open on January 21, 2025, and Universal Terra Luna Resort will open shortly after on February 25, 2025. While the other two appear to be opening before Epic Universe, it is likely that Universal Helios Grand Hotel will open at the same time as the park due to its location.
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