Should you stay at a Universal Studios or Walt Disney World Resort on your next vacation?
Orlando, Florida, is world-renowned for its spectacular theme parks, with Walt Disney World and Universal Studios Orlando standing as titans of immersive entertainment. You already know all of this. That is how you landed here. Let’s talk thru the pros and cons of staying on property at both Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resorts. With few exceptions, I recommend that you do stay on property. Reason is proximity. A theme park vacation will require you to travel lots of ground most of which you will do on your feet. Staying as close as possible to the action will allow you the opportunity to return to your room for some respite, change of clothes, change of shoes, etc. There are options for both that can fit into most budgets. Off property options will be discussed in a blog post to come.
So where to stay? Both Disney and Universal offer themed resort hotels that promise an experience beyond just a place to sleep. They offer a gateway into their respective worlds.
Atmosphere and Theming
Walt Disney World Resort Hotels:
Disney’s hotels are famed for their creative theming and meticulous attention to detail. From the African savannah-inspired Animal Kingdom Lodge to the coastal charm of Disney’s Beach Club Resort and the whimsical, larger-than-life icons at Disney’s Pop Century Resort, you’re enveloped in storytelling the moment you arrive. Cast Members (Disney’s term for employees) enhance the magic with warm hospitality and character-inspired interactions.
Universal Orlando Resort Hotels:
Universal’s hotels offer their own impressive theming, often blending modern sophistication with nods to movies and pop culture. The Hard Rock Hotel invokes the spirit of rock stardom, while Loews Royal Pacific Resort transports guests to a lush South Seas paradise, complete with torch-lit walkways and serene lagoons. Cabana Bay Beach Resort plays with 1950s and 60s retro Americana, creating a fun, vibrant atmosphere for families.
Location and Proximity to Parks
Walt Disney World sprawls over 25,000 acres, but its resorts are strategically placed to offer easy access to its four theme parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney's Hollywood Studios, and Disney's Animal Kingdom. Deluxe resorts like the Contemporary, Polynesian, and Grand Floridian are situated on the monorail loop, steps away from Magic Kingdom. Other resorts are linked by buses, boats, or the Disney Skyliner gondola, making park-hopping and exploring the vast property relatively easy.
Walt Disney World Resort Map Overview courtesy of Magic Guides
Universal Orlando Resort is more compact, with two theme parks (Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure) plus the Volcano Bay water park. All Universal hotels are located within walking distance or a short shuttle ride from the parks. Premium hotels—Hard Rock, Royal Pacific, and Portofino Bay—offer an easy stroll to CityWalk and the park entrances, making it possible to maximize your time inside the parks. Epic Universe (new Universal Studios offering in 2025) is located about 15 mins away from Universal Studios and Island of Adventure. Epic Universe has three hotels (Helios Grand, Terra Luna and Stella Nova) located in its vicinity.
Universal Studios Orlando Resort overview Map courtesy of Magic Guides
Guest Perks and Exclusive Benefits
Disney Resort Guests: Staying at a Disney hotel unlocks early entry to the parks (Early Theme Park Entry) and, at select resorts, extended evening hours. Guests can make Lightning Lane selections (paid skip-the-line access) earlier than off-property guests. Complimentary transportation across Walt Disney World is a major plus.
Universal Resort Guests: Universal’s premier hotels (Portofino Bay, Hard Rock, Royal Pacific) provide a highly sought-after benefit: complimentary Universal Express Unlimited Passes, which allow front-of-line access to most attractions. This can save hours of waiting time and is a significant value, particularly during busy periods. All Universal hotel guests also enjoy Early Park Admission to select parks and attractions.
Amenities, Recreation, and Family Fun
Disney: Disney resorts boast themed pools with water slides, arcades, playgrounds, movie nights under the stars, and scheduled activities for guests of all ages. Many offer spas, fitness centers, and specialty recreation such as boat rentals, horseback riding, and golf. Character dining and meet-and-greets add extra magic, especially for children. Resorts like the Yacht Club offer sand-bottom pools, while Animal Kingdom Lodge features animal viewing areas.
Universal: Universal hotels match Disney in amenities, offering dazzling pools (some with lazy rivers and sand beaches), bowling at Cabana Bay, fitness centers, and activities like dive-in movies and game rooms. Hard Rock Hotel is known for its underwater music feature at the pool, and Royal Pacific’s lagoon-style pool is a hit with families. Universal’s hotels tend to have a more contemporary vibe, with family suites available at several properties.
Dining Experiences
Disney: Dining at Disney resorts ranges from casual food courts to signature restaurants helmed by celebrity chefs. Themed dining is a highlight: Cinderella’s Royal Table, Boma (African cuisine), and 'Ohana (Polynesian fare) are favorites. Disney’s dining plan can simplify budgeting, and many resorts offer unique culinary events and character breakfasts.
Universal: Universal’s hotels provide diverse options, from the elegant Bice Ristorante at Portofino Bay to the energetic vibe at the Hard Rock Cafe and the tropical flavors of Islands Dining Room. Cabana Bay features a sprawling food court with retro touches, while Sapphire Falls boasts Caribbean-inspired fare. CityWalk, just outside the hotel doors, dramatically expands the dining choices with dozens of restaurants and bars.
Transportation and Convenience
Disney: Disney’s transportation network—buses, monorails, boats, and the Skyliner—ensures guests can traverse the massive property without a car. Some resorts, like the Contemporary, are a short walk to the parks, while others require a bus ride. While convenient, wait times and travel distances can occasionally be long due to the resort’s size.
Universal: Universal’s smaller footprint means you can walk from most hotels to the parks in under 15 minutes, with resort boats and shuttles available for those who prefer not to walk. Parking is easier to navigate, and the close proximity to CityWalk means nightlife and entertainment are just steps away after a day in the parks.
Cost and Value
Disney offers resorts across three categories: Value, Moderate, and Deluxe. Value resorts are affordable and cheerful, but rooms are smaller and amenities more basic. Moderate and Deluxe resorts provide increased comfort, better dining, and prime locations, but prices rise accordingly. During peak seasons, prices can be steep, and additional costs like Lightning Lane access add up.
Universal’s hotels are generally grouped into Prime Value, Preferred, and Premier categories. Prime Value hotels, such as Cabana Bay and Aventura, are budget-friendly and modern; Premier hotels offer luxury amenities and the coveted Express passes. Overall, Universal often provides better value for guests seeking front-of-line access and easy park entry, especially for families focused on maximizing time inside the parks.
Overall Guest Experience
Disney: A stay at Disney feels like an extension of the magic found inside the parks. From the soundtrack in the lobbies to the creative pools and immersive decor, everything is designed to prolong the sense of wonder. Many guests cherish the legendary Disney service, attention to detail, and the abundance of activities offered on-site.
Universal: Universal’s hotels excel at combining comfort, convenience, and excitement. The proximity to the parks, the value of free Express passes, and the dynamic atmosphere appeal to thrill-seekers and families alike. While the theming may not be as fantastical as Disney’s, it is well-executed, with a dash of grown-up sophistication and playful energy.
Which Should You Choose?
The best choice depends on a couple of factors.
What are your travel party’s preferences? If you’re seeking fairy-tale immersion, world-renowned service, and a host of family activities, Disney’s resorts are hard to beat. Better option for travel parties containing “littles” (children under 10). If you crave cinematic thrills, front-of-line access, and a modern hotel experience steps from the parks, Universal’s hotels may be a better fit. Better option for travel parties consisting of adults only or with teenagers.
Where are you planning on spending the majority of your time? Stay on property nearest the parks where you are planning on spending the most of your park time. Travel to and from eats up time. This vacation is not cheap and you should maximize your park or resort time. (Try to add in a resort day, pool day or water park day into your vacation if you are able. Even a Disney Springs day can be a nice break to the theme park crowds).
Budget. That dirty word. Stay where you can afford to stay. Disney does offer some lower priced resort options with their Value tier. These are not bad options. The rooms will be a bit smaller and the resorts may be a bit noisier since most people there tend to have children in their parties. (Side note: I have had issues with noise while staying at the Grand Floridian. There is no escape). Universal resort offerings tend to be lower in price and easier to get into than their Disney counterparts.
Ultimately, both destinations offer something exceptional—whether it’s the enchantment of Disney or the adventure of Universal, your Orlando vacation will be one to remember. Consider your priorities, budget, and interests, and you’ll find the perfect place to make magical memories.
