You’re standing on the rooftop terrace of Universal Helios Grand Hotel, sipping a craft cocktail while watching the sun set over Universal Epic Universe. Below you, the park’s attractions twinkle to life, and you realize you’re staying inside one of the world’s most anticipated theme parks. This isn’t just a dream anymore—it’s the reality that awaits families at Universal’s three spectacular new hotels.
After helping hundreds of families plan their Universal adventures, I can tell you that choosing the right hotel can make or break your vacation. With the opening of Universal Epic Universe in May 2025, Universal has created three distinctly different hotel experiences: the luxurious Universal Helios Grand Hotel, the space-inspired Universal Stella Nova Resort, and the adventure-themed Universal Terra Luna Resort. Each offers unique perks, but which one’s right for your family?
Let me share everything you need to know about these incredible new properties so you can make the perfect choice for your Epic Universe adventure.
Universal Helios Grand Hotel: Your Premium Gateway to Epic Universe
Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel, isn’t just near Epic Universe—it’s actually located inside the park itself. Grammy and I had the chance to tour this Mediterranean-inspired masterpiece, and let me tell you, it’s unlike anything Universal has ever created.
Location and Design
This 500-room hotel sits majestically inside Universal Epic Universe, offering guests the ultimate convenience of stepping directly into Celestial Park. The design draws inspiration from the sun god Helios, featuring stunning celestial themes with constellation patterns, warm golden hues, and floor-to-ceiling windows that offer breathtaking views of the park.
Exclusive Perks and Amenities
What sets Helios Grand Hotel apart is its exclusive, dedicated entrance to Epic Universe. You won’t find this convenience at any other Universal hotel! The property features a zero-entry resort pool with a hot tub at Lotus Lagoon, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a game room perfect for when the kids need some downtime.
Dining Excellence
The culinary offerings at Helios Grand Hotel are truly exceptional:
- Flora Taverna: This open-kitchen restaurant serves Mediterranean comfort foods with both indoor and al fresco dining options
- Bar Helios: The rooftop bar offers 360-degree views of Epic Universe with creative tapas and handcrafted cocktails
- Lotus Lagoon: Poolside dining where you can enjoy frozen drinks and snacks without leaving your lounge chair
- Aurora Market: A quick-service coffee bar and grab-and-go option for families rushing to the parks
Who Should Stay Here
Helios Grand Hotel is perfect for families celebrating special occasions, multi-generational trips where grandparents want to splurge, or anyone who values ultimate convenience and comfort. With rates starting around $365 per night and reaching $700-$800 during peak times, it’s definitely an investment; however, the exclusive park access and luxury amenities make it worthwhile for many families.
Favorite Grampy’s Pro Tip: Book Helios Grand Hotel well in advance—it’s already selling out for popular dates due to its unique location inside the park!
Universal Stella Nova Resort: Space-Age Family Fun on a Budget
Universal Stella Nova Resort captures the wonder of space exploration with a modern, family-friendly approach that won’t break the bank. This Prime Value hotel offers incredible theming at a fraction of the cost of Helios Grand.
Stellar Design and Location
The hotel’s space theme features darker color palettes with blues, purples, and teals that evoke the vastness of the galaxy. Located adjacent to Epic Universe, Stella Nova offers easy access without the premium price tag, thanks to a dedicated walking path. The 750 rooms provide ample space to explore the endless possibilities of your Universal vacation.
Family-Focused Amenities
Stella Nova shines when it comes to family amenities:
- A massive 10,000-square-foot pool with interactive water features
- Kids’ splash pad that little ones absolutely love
- Hot tubs perfect for parents to relax after long park days
- Poolside movie nights (weather permitting)
- Fire pits for cozy evening gatherings
- Fitness center and game room
Cosmic Dining Options
The dining at Stella Nova focuses on accessible, family-friendly options:
- Cosmos Café & Market: Quick-service restaurant offering American classics like burgers, paninis, and pizzas for all three meals
- Nova Bar: The lobby bar features innovative cocktails created with enclosed smoke vessels for unique flavor profiles
- Galaxy Bar & Grill: Poolside dining with burgers, quesadillas, and refreshing beverages
- Pizza Delivery: Late-night room service pizza—perfect for families who want to relax in their rooms
Perfect For
Stella Nova works beautifully for families with school-age children who love space themes, budget-conscious travelers who still want great theming, and groups who prefer having a walking path to Epic Universe. At $200-300 per night, it offers tremendous value for the theming and amenities provided.
Universal Terra Luna Resort: Earth-Inspired Adventures for Budget Travelers
Universal Terra Luna Resort celebrates the beauty of our own planet while maintaining the cosmic connection to Epic Universe. This Prime Value option provides excellent accommodations for families who prioritize savings over convenience.
Nature-Meets-Space Design
Terra Luna features earthy color schemes with greens and golds, spaceship-style windows, and textures that evoke the warmth of wood and stone. The hotel celebrates discovery and adventure, making it an ideal destination for families who love exploring both the Earth and space.
Adventure-Focused Amenities
Terra Luna mirrors many of Stella Nova’s amenities with its own unique twist:
- 10,000-square-foot zero-entry pool designed for family fun
- Hot tubs and outdoor games perfect for multi-generational groups
- Pool deck with movies and fire pits for evening entertainment
- Fitness center and recreational game rooms
- 750 well-appointed guest rooms with adventure-themed décor
Down-to-Earth Dining
The dining options at Terra Luna focus on comfort and convenience:
- Omega Café & Market: Features stuffed French toast and frittatas for breakfast, plus burgers, wraps, and Asian bowls for lunch and dinner
- Luna Bar: Modern lobby bar with craft cocktails in a relaxed atmosphere
- Moonrise Bar & Moonrise Grill: Poolside dining with casual favorites
- Pizza Delivery: Room service pizza for those cozy nights in
Budget-Friendly Choice
Terra Luna works best for price-conscious families, groups who don’t mind taking shuttles to Epic Universe, and travelers who appreciate earth-themed designs. With similar pricing to Stella Nova ($200-$300 per night), the main difference is location—Terra Luna is situated across Kirkman Boulevard, without a direct walking path to the park.
Choosing the Right Hotel for Your Family
After years of helping families navigate Universal’s hotel options, here’s my honest assessment:
Choose Helios Grand Hotel if you’re celebrating a milestone, have mobility concerns, or want the ultimate luxury experience. The exclusive park entrance alone saves hours of walking and shuttle time.
Choose Stella Nova if you have kids who love space themes, want good value with excellent amenities, and prefer walking to Epic Universe over taking shuttles.
Choose Terra Luna if budget is your primary concern, you don’t mind shuttle transportation, and you appreciate nature-inspired designs over space themes.
Universal Benefits at All Three Hotels
Regardless of which hotel you choose, all three Epic Universe properties include:
- Early Park Admission to Universal theme parks (valid theme park admission required)
- Complimentary shuttle transportation to Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, Volcano Bay, and CityWalk
- Resort-wide charging privileges with your room key
- Free package delivery from theme park purchases to your hotel
- Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the hotel
Favorite Grampy’s Pro Tip: None of these hotels include Universal Express Pass benefits (unlike some of the Signature Collection properties), so factor that into your budget if you’re used to staying at Portofino Bay, Royal Pacific, or Hard Rock Hotel.
Planning Your Epic Universe Hotel Stay
Book early! These hotels are already experiencing high demand, with Helios Grand Hotel selling out popular dates. Consider staying Sunday through Thursday for better rates and availability.
All three properties opened in early 2025, so you can book now for your Epic Universe adventure. Make sure to add Epic Universe tickets to your vacation package!
Favorite Grampy Travels can help you navigate the booking process and often secure special perks for our clients. We’re U-Preferred Travel Agents, which means we know all the ins and outs of these new properties.
Whether you choose the luxury of Helios Grand Hotel, the space-age fun of Stella Nova, or the adventurous spirit of Terra Luna, you’re guaranteed an out-of-this-world experience at Universal Epic Universe. These three hotels represent Universal’s commitment to creating immersive, family-friendly accommodations that enhance your entire vacation.
If you’re looking for more expert information about Universal’s Epic Universe for your trip, click the link to check out Favorite Grampy’s guide to Epic Universe!
Don’t let these magical accommodations pass by—contact Favorite Grampy Travels here, or call 866-846-3141 today, to start planning your Epic Universe adventure that’ll create memories lasting a lifetime!
My goal is to spoil my grandchildren and make memories that last a lifetime. As the Digital Marketing Director of Favorite Grampy Travels, an award winning travel agency. I’m recognized as an expert in amusement parks and family travel. You’ll find stories of me and the grandkids finding the magic in every adventure. After decades of exploring Disney, Universal Studios, and beyond, I’m proud to be the trusted, fun-loving guide known as the… Favorite Grampy.