Best Family Hotels Near Universal Studios Orlando
Home to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, thrilling rides, and immersive movie-themed experiences for the whole family.
Universal Orlando Resort features three theme parks — Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and the new Universal Epic Universe. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is the crown jewel, spanning two lands connected by the Hogwarts Express train.
With rides based on beloved movies like Jurassic World, Transformers, and Despicable Me, plus incredible dining at CityWalk, Universal offers a more compact and walkable alternative to other Orlando parks that many families prefer.
Top Hotels Near Universal Studios Orlando
Ranked by proximity and Family Score — the closest, highest-rated family hotels.
Family Tips
Best Time to Visit
Late September through mid-November and January through early March have the lowest crowds. Weekdays are significantly less crowded than weekends year-round.
Save Money
- ✓Stay at an on-site hotel for free Early Park Admission — a huge advantage for Harry Potter rides.
- ✓Multi-day tickets offer significant per-day savings over single-day passes.
- ✓Bring refillable water bottles and snacks to cut food costs.
What to Pack
- •Waterproof phone pouch — several rides will get you soaked
- •Comfortable shoes for all-day walking on concrete
- •Sunscreen and hats for the Florida sun
- •A change of clothes if visiting Volcano Bay water park
Sample Itineraries
Plan your family trip with our day-by-day guides.
Day 1: Islands of Adventure
Hagrid's Magical Creatures and Forbidden Journey at rope drop.
Jurassic World VelociCoaster and Skull Island.
CityWalk dining and entertainment.
Pro Tip: The VelociCoaster is one of the best roller coasters in the world — don't miss it.
Day 2: Universal Studios
Diagon Alley and Escape from Gringotts first.
Enjoy Transformers, MEN IN BLACK, and Despicable Me.
Hogwarts Express ride and revisit favorites.
Pro Tip: Ollivanders wand experience in Diagon Alley is free and magical for kids.
Day 3: Volcano Bay or Epic Universe
Spend the day at Volcano Bay water theme park or Universal Epic Universe.
Continue exploring rides and attractions.
Farewell dinner at CityWalk.
Pro Tip: TapuTapu wearable at Volcano Bay lets you virtually wait in line while enjoying the park.
What Families Are Saying
“My family and I recently spent my son and his friend's 16th birthdays at Universal Studios and stayed here in the deluxe room for 3 nights”
“Our family of 4 (including our 2 young adult children) visited Universal/Islands of Adventure on Saturday and stayed at this hotel Friday and Saturday nights”
“My son and daughter stayed at TRYP Orlando to hang out at Universal Studios”
“If you’re looking for the perfect location close to universal studios, great quality service an amazing breakfast served every day, looking further”
“Location is perfect-Universal Studios Orlando is 5 minutes away and Disney is about 15 minutes-Keep up the Great job Best Western”
“Took the family to Orlando for a two day visit to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure”
“Great hotel, we stayed here for over 7 nights for a trip to Universal and it’s an ideal family-friendly location close to Universal Studios. The only downsides for the hotel is lack of a decent on-site restaurant and shuttle service to Universal Studios”
“Overall,we had a great stay and I would recommend staying at this hotel if you plan on going to universal studios/volcano bay”
“Excellent location walkable to Universal Studios yet also a great hotel to stay while on business”
Age Guide
Toddlers (0-3)
Seuss Landing in Islands of Adventure is designed for the youngest visitors. Despicable Me Minion Mayhem is a fun gentle ride for little ones.
Young Kids (4-7)
The Wizarding World is pure magic for kids who love Harry Potter. Ages 4-7 can enjoy most rides with the right height.
Older Kids (8-12)
This is Universal's sweet spot — kids 8-12 love the thrilling rides, immersive theming, and interactive wand experiences.
Teens (13-17)
VelociCoaster, Hagrid's Motorbike, and the Incredible Hulk Coaster are world-class thrills. CityWalk offers teen-friendly dining and entertainment.
Practical Information
Parking
Standard parking is $30/day. Prime parking closer to CityWalk is $50/day. On-site hotel guests get free parking and water taxi/bus service.
Hours
Parks typically open 8-9am and close 7-10pm depending on season. Early Park Admission starts one hour before official opening for eligible guests.
Ticket Tips
Park-to-Park tickets are essential to ride the Hogwarts Express. Universal Express Pass ($80-110+/day) is worth it during peak times. On-site hotel guests at premier hotels get free Express.
Dining
Three Broomsticks and Leaky Cauldron serve themed food in the Wizarding World. CityWalk has over 20 restaurants ranging from casual to upscale.
Accessibility
All parks are wheelchair accessible. Attraction Assistance Pass available for guests with cognitive disabilities. Companion restrooms and service animal relief areas available.
Nearby Attractions
Planning a bigger trip? These attractions are close by.
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