A resort nestled within a theme park: An exclusive preview of the Universal Helios Grand Hotel set to debut at the new Epic Universe.

Universal Orlando currently features eight on-site hotels, providing guests with seamless access to the excitement of Universal's theme parks. Next year, they will expand this offering with three additional hotels to accommodate the anticipated influx of visitors when Universal Epic Universe, the resort's latest theme park, opens on May 22, 2025.

Epic Universe is being constructed on a sprawling 750-acre site a few miles from Universal's current parks and hotels, nearly doubling the size of Universal Orlando Resort and significantly increasing the demand for more lodging options.

This year, the opening dates, pricing, and themes for two of these new properties, Universal Stella Nova Resort and Universal Terra Luna Resort, were previously announced. Recently, Universal unveiled further details about the Universal Helios Grand Hotel, an extravagant establishment located within Epic Universe.

Indeed, the Universal Helios Grand Hotel is a resort situated within a theme park, marking a first for Universal Orlando.

In a recent press release, Universal described the hotel as "the crown jewel of Epic Universe and the ultimate in Universal Orlando's hotel offerings."

Due to its location, the hotel will feature a private entrance to Epic Universe exclusively for guests of Universal Helios Grand. This is in addition to other benefits enjoyed by all Universal hotel guests, such as early theme park access by one hour, complimentary shuttle service, resort-wide charging, free merchandise delivery, and more.

The upcoming theme park will showcase areas dedicated to beloved film and video game franchises, including Super Nintendo, "How to Train Your Dragon," Universal Classic Monsters, Harry Potter, and more. Additionally, there will be a completely original concept known as Celestial Park.

The Universal Helios Grand Hotel will be positioned at the back of Celestial Park, offering stunning views of the land's fountains, gardens, and attractions themed around the cosmos. In a press release, Universal described the hotel, co-owned and operated by Loews Hotels & Co., as a "majestic Mediterranean-inspired getaway" that "takes inspiration from the astronomical and mythological aspects of Celestial Park."

The hotel’s name is inspired by Greek mythology; Helios is the god of the sun. The hotel is envisioned as his palace, featuring architecture and design adorned with celestial motifs and constellations.

The hotel's lobby and rooftop bar will offer some of the finest panoramas of Epic Universe. The only way to eclipse these views is from the height of a thrilling coaster. By day, guests can admire the vibrant lands in their full splendor, and by night, the park transforms into a dazzling display. The lighting design for Stardust Racers will make the dueling coaster cars appear as comets racing through the night sky. Universal has also noted that the park will "transform" from day to night with lights and music each evening at dusk.

Guests of the Universal Helios Grand Hotel will enjoy prime access to these exclusive "stargazing" events.

Accommodations at this "elegant yet relaxed" hotel evoke the essence of a watercolor masterpiece, featuring soft colors and floral touches. Each room and suite will be equipped with tablets, allowing guests to digitally manage the curtains, lighting, and temperature, as well as order room service.

Many rooms will provide views of Epic Universe, offering stunning sights even when taking a break from the park. The hotel will also feature club-level rooms with access to a private lounge, continental breakfast, evening hors d'oeuvres, and dedicated concierge services.

Multiple hotels at Universal Orlando feature family suites themed around franchises like "Despicable Me" and "Jurassic World," and the Universal Helios Grand Hotel is no different. It will offer 14 "How to Train Your Dragon" Kids Suites, showcasing a dragon mural behind the beds and decor inspired by the Viking village of Berk from the films.

Hotel guests will have a variety of dining options, and Bar Helios is sure to become a beloved choice. This rooftop venue will offer a selection of tapas, classic favorites, and artisanal cocktails, all while guests enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of Epic Universe.

Lotus Lagoon will serve as the resort's poolside bar and grill, offering cocktails, nonalcoholic drinks, and casual fare like burgers, salads, and sandwiches.

Flora Taverna, a full-service bar and restaurant located just off the lobby, will feature an open kitchen preparing Mediterranean dishes and oven-baked pizzas. Guests can choose between indoor dining or alfresco seating for an additional view of Celestial Park.

Also situated in the lobby, Aurora Market is the perfect spot for guests to kickstart their day. This quick-service eatery and coffee shop will offer grab-and-go food options, snacks, and desserts. While not explicitly mentioned in the press release, it is anticipated that the hotel will provide a selection of Starbucks coffee drinks, similar to other Universal properties.

Visitors can escape the heat of Orlando's summer (and spring, fall, and winter) in the resort-style pool with zero-entry access. The pool area will boast underwater speakers, cabana rentals, a hot tub, poolside movies, daily games, and various activities.

In line with other Universal hotels, Universal Helios Grand Hotel will feature a fitness center, a game room, and a Universal Orlando gift shop.

Rates for a standard room at Universal Helios Grand Hotel start at $293 per night. Additional pricing options are available for rooms with pool or theme park views, as well as larger deluxe rooms and suites.

This 500-room resort is set to open alongside Epic Universe on May 22, 2025. Reservations can be made now by clicking here.