You know I like a destination that delivers immersive experiences & supports them with luxury service. So let’s get this out of the way: Yes, you can do Universal in luxury.
And no, it doesn’t require sacrificing fun for formality (or dragging your kids through stuffy experiences they’ll hate). Universal Orlando has been quietly leveling up its game in recent years — and with the opening of Epic Universe, the variety of cushiony extras is greater than ever.
With that out of the way, if you love all-in adventures and appreciate plush pillows, skip-the-line perks, and a cocktail (or coffee!) to take the edge off… this guide is for you.
✨ Stay Smart: Where to Book for Luxury Perks
There’s a difference between staying close and staying well. And like our friend Marie Antoinette, you can have your cake and eat it too. The right hotel gives you early park entry, priority access, and a level of ease that turns a high-energy trip into a truly refreshing one.
Top Luxe Picks:
- Loews Portofino Bay Hotel – European elegance + free Universal Express Passes? Bellissimo.
- Hard Rock Hotel Orlando – For families who want upscale with a fun, music-loving twist.
- Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel – Expect stunning views of Celestial Park from your window and an Epic park entrance that’s exclusive to hotel guests.
Concierge Tip: Club-level rooms come with breakfast, snacks, and evening wine + beer service… yes, please.
⚡ Skip the Lines (Literally)
No one wants to spend their vacation standing in the sun waiting for a ride. Here’s how to bypass that:
- Universal Express Pass – This golden ticket lets you skip the regular lines at most attractions. Available *free* for guests at select premier hotels.
- VIP Experience – Includes a private guide, front-of-line access, valet parking, an included meal and exclusive lounge spaces. (And yes, I can arrange this for you 😉)
🍸 Eat Like You Mean It
Sure, there are plenty of grab-and-go churros. And I will gladly join you in snacking on one. But Universal also has restaurants that surprise and delight — especially when you know where to look.
Fine-ish Dining Favorites:
- Mythos (Islands of Adventure) – Voted best theme park restaurant for a reason. Can’t argue with that.
- Bigfire (CityWalk) – Elevated American fare with smoky flavors and craft cocktails. You don’t even need to pay theme park admission!
- Das Stakehaus – A themed Dark Universe venue with food to…die for. 🔪I’ve seen some photos, and you can be sure I will be stopping here on my first visit to the park.
With Epic’s opening, there will be no shortage of fun and tasty food to try each time you visit this new destination. Plus all of the existing options in CityWalk and the other existing parks!
💆♀️ Plan for Downtime
Luxury isn’t just about the fancy touches — it’s also about how you feel during your trip. That means building in breaks, pool time, and experiences that recharge you (not drain you).
Rest-Rich Options:
- Private poolside cabanas
- Spa treatments at Mandara Spa
- Afternoon wand practice instead of back-to-back thrill rides
Universal can be high-energy — but with the right plan, there’s no need to feel like you’ve run a marathon.
💼 How I Help Achieve Your Luxury Goals
Think of me as your vacation concierge with a side of theme park strategy. When we plan your Universal trip together, I’ll:
- Match you with the perfect resort
- Build your custom itinerary
- Add the upgrades that make a huge difference (without you having to lift a finger)
- Geek out over Harry Potter with you
Ready to see the luxe side of Universal?
Let’s make it effortless, elevated, and uniquely you.
To plan your own Epic adventure, schedule a time to chat!
Find me on Travel Leaders Network!
