Universal Helios Grand Hotel: Your Guide to Epic Universe's In-Park Hotel

Your place in the sun at Universal Orlando Resort awaits!

Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel, is the only hotel with its own dedicated entrance into Universal Epic Universe (valid theme park admission required).

Rising above Celestial Park like a golden palace fit for Helios, the Greek god of the sun, this 500-room Signature Collection hotel puts the five incredible worlds of Epic Universe right outside your window, with a stylish rooftop bar, Mediterranean-inspired dining and a relaxing resort pool to come home to.

The hotel opened its doors on 16 April 2025, a few weeks ahead of Universal Epic Universe's grand opening on 22 May 2025, and it's been one of the most talked-about stays at Universal Orlando Resort ever since.

Here at AttractionTickets.com, we've rounded up everything you need to plan a 2026/2027 stay, including every room type, how the dedicated entrance works, where to eat and drink, how to enjoy the nighttime show from the hotel and our favourite tips for making every moment shine!

The Sunrise Summary

• Where it is: Inside Universal Epic Universe, overlooking Celestial Park, at 8505 S. Kirkman Road, Orlando.
• Dedicated entrance: Stroll from the hotel lobby straight into Celestial Park with your room key and valid Epic Universe admission.
• Hotel benefits: Early Park Admission to select attractions, complimentary shuttles to the other Universal parks and CityWalk, room-key charging and complimentary merchandise delivery.
• Universal Express: Universal Express isn't part of the Helios Grand hotel benefits, so you can add a Universal Epic Universe Express Pass to your trip if you'd like one.
• Rooms: 500 rooms, including 35 suites, with theme park view rooms, Club Level rooms and the much-loved How to Train Your Dragon Kids' Suites.
• Food and drink: Flora Taverna, the rooftop Bar Helios, Aurora Market, the Lotus Lagoon pool bar and 24-hour room service.
• After dark: Universal Celestial Goodnight lights up Celestial Park at park close every night, and you can play the soundtrack through your in-room TV.
• Perfect for: Anyone making Universal Epic Universe the star of their Universal Orlando holiday.

What is Universal Helios Grand Hotel like?

Universal Helios Grand Hotel is a Mediterranean-inspired luxury hotel themed to the palace of Helios, designed hand in hand with Universal Epic Universe so the two feel like one seamless world. It's operated by Loews Hotels, the team behind favourites such as Loews Portofino Bay Hotel and Loews Sapphire Falls Resort, and it marks more than 25 years of partnership between Universal and Loews.

Step inside and you'll find a light-filled lobby with floor-to-ceiling windows framing breathtaking views across Celestial Park. Celestial patterns, glittering constellations and golden accents shimmer all around you, and a magical display by the lifts follows the sun and moon, shifting from a bright daytime scene in the morning to a twilight version by night. Even the artwork in the hallways traces the journey from day to night as you rise through the hotel's eight floors!

Our top tip: Make one of your first holiday photos a selfie with the Apollo statue in the Court of the Sun, just outside the lobby!

Fun fact: The golden cartouche on the front of the hotel lines up perfectly with the centre tower of the Chronos gate at the park's entrance, so Helios Grand is always the shining centrepiece of Celestial Park.

Universal Helios Grand Hotel rooms and suites

Universal Helios Grand Hotel has 500 rooms, including 35 suites, each inspired by a tranquil Mediterranean garden. Expect soft blues and blush-pink tones, watercolour-style floral headboards and plenty of natural light, with view options including standard, pool, Orlando skyline and theme park views.

Rollaways are available in most room types for an additional fee, with one per room, on a first-come, first-served basis.

Theme park view rooms

If there's one view that makes guests' jaws drop, it's this one! Theme park view rooms look out over Celestial Park and the portals to the worlds beyond, with the fountains and lights glittering below you after dark. It's a mesmerising sight to wake up to on the morning of your big Epic Universe day.

Our top tip: If the park view is high on your wish list, choose a room labelled Theme Park View when you book, as views vary across the hotel.

Take a look inside! Step into a Park View 2 Queen room at Universal Helios Grand Hotel in this room tour, with a peek at the two queen beds, the elegant furnishings and the layout, plus that breathtaking view over Universal Epic Universe.

How to Train Your Dragon Kids' Suites

Calling all young Dragon Riders! The How to Train Your Dragon Kids' Suites give little Vikings their very own themed bedroom behind a rustic wooden door, with two twin beds and a mural of Toothless and the Light Fury watching over them. It feels like your adventures on the Isle of Berk carry on long after you've left the portal!

Grown-ups get a king bed, a bathroom with separate bath and vanity areas, and a living area with a small sleeper sofa and a fridge. The suites sleep up to five and come with a theme park view option. For bigger families, a Theme Park View Kids' Suite can be paired with a connecting two-queen bedroom, giving you 870 sq ft and space for up to 10!

Club Level rooms

Club Level rooms add a sprinkle of extra luxury, with access to the hotel's ninth-floor Club Lounge. Enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast (mimosas included!), snacks during the day, evening hors d'oeuvres and sweet treats with beer and wine, and soft drinks, juice and water whenever you fancy them. There's even a TV area with board games for a cosy evening in. Club guests also enjoy nightly turndown service, cosy signature bathrobes and dedicated concierge service.

Our top tip: Club Level is great value if you'll make the most of the lounge for breakfast and evening treats, especially on Epic Universe days when you're popping back to the hotel.

Suites for bigger groups and special occasions

Travelling as a larger group, or celebrating something special? The hotel's suites range from 495 sq ft King Suites to the 1,825 sq ft two-bedroom Presidential Suite. The Hospitality Suites include a kitchen area with an island and bar seating, a powder room and a sectional sleeper sofa, making them a fantastic base for families who love to spread out.

What's in your room?

Every room comes with the little comforts that make a long park day even easier:

• A bedside tablet to control the drapes, temperature, lighting and TV, and to order room service or request maintenance
• A 55-inch HD TV with in-room movies (fees apply) and TV checkout
• A mini-fridge and single-cup coffee maker with coffee and teas
• An in-room safe large enough for a laptop or tablet
• Plenty of plug sockets and USB ports for charging phones overnight
• Hairdryer, lighted make-up mirror, iron and ironing board
• Complimentary Wi-Fi, with a faster premium option available for a fee

Our top tip: If your tablet needs a helping hand, call the front desk from your room phone or message the hotel's Chat Your Service text service, and the team will be happy to help!

Accessible rooms

Universal Helios Grand Hotel offers a range of accessible rooms across several room types. Mobility accessible rooms include accessible tubs or roll-in showers with grab bars and handheld showers, plus 36-inch doorways, while hearing accessible rooms feature visual alarms, a visual doorbell and a flashing light on the phone. Accessible routes run throughout the hotel, and more room categories offer accessibility features on request.

Let our team know about any accessibility needs when you book, so we can help you find the right room. Our guide to how accessible Universal Orlando Resort is has lots more helpful information.

Universal Helios Grand Hotel benefits

Staying at Universal Helios Grand Hotel comes with all the brilliant perks of a Universal Orlando Resort hotel, plus one that only Helios Grand guests enjoy.

• Dedicated entrance to Universal Epic Universe: Walk from the lobby straight into Celestial Park (valid theme park admission required).
• Early Park Admission: Enjoy select attractions up to an hour before regular park opening (valid theme park admission required).
• Complimentary shuttles: Hop between the hotel, Universal CityWalk and the other Universal Orlando Resort parks.
• Resort-wide charging privileges: Pay with your room key across the resort.
• Complimentary merchandise delivery: Purchases from select stores across the resort are delivered to your hotel.
• Vacation Planning Center: Help with tickets, dining reservations and plans, right in the lobby.

Does Universal Helios Grand Hotel include Universal Express?

Universal Express isn't included with a stay at Universal Helios Grand Hotel. If you'd like some extra ride time at Universal Epic Universe, you can add a 1-Day Universal Epic Universe Express Pass, which gives you one express entry to each participating ride (Dragon Racer's Rally isn't included).

On the day, you may also spot Universal Express Now single-ride passes in the Universal Orlando Resort app, subject to availability.

Universal Express Unlimited isn't currently offered at Universal Epic Universe for any hotel or ticket. Planning plenty of time at Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure too? A stay at Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Portofino Bay Hotel or Loews Royal Pacific Resort includes Universal Express Unlimited at those two parks. Our Universal Express Pass guide has all the details.

How does the dedicated entrance to Universal Epic Universe work?

The dedicated entrance is just past the hotel lobby, near Aurora Market, and it's one of the most magical things about staying at Helios Grand. Here's how it works:

1. Have your room key and park ticket ready. You'll need both, along with valid Universal Epic Universe admission for that day.
2. Pass through security. There's a bag check inside the hotel, just like at the main park entrance.
3. Scan your ticket at the turnstiles. Your park day officially begins!
4. Cross the bridge into Celestial Park. You'll arrive between Dark Universe and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Ministry of Magic.
5. Head home the same way. Scan your room key to step back into the hotel whenever you fancy a break.

Our top tip for Early Park Admission: Guests eligible for Early Park Admission are usually welcomed into the park's holding area before the extra hour begins, so heading down around 30-45 minutes before your start time gives you a relaxed, unhurried start. Grab a coffee from Aurora Market on the way, then make your way into the park as soon as it opens.

Our top tip for midday breaks: This is where Helios Grand really shines! After a morning of adventures, pop back for a swim, a nap or a cool drink by the pool, then head back into the park for the evening. It takes just a few minutes.

Early Park Admission at Universal Epic Universe

Universal Helios Grand Hotel guests can enjoy Early Park Admission to select attractions up to an hour before regular park opening, with valid theme park admission. Participating parks and attractions vary by date, and in autumn 2026, Early Park Admission at Epic Universe has included select experiences in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Ministry of Magic, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, How to Train Your Dragon - Isle of Berk and Celestial Park.

The line-up changes from time to time, so check the Universal Orlando Resort app the evening before your visit to see what's open early.

Our top tip: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Ministry of Magic is just steps from the hotel's entrance, making Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry a brilliant first stop. Heading for SUPER NINTENDO WORLD instead? It's on the far side of Celestial Park, so allow a little extra time for the stroll.

Getting to Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure and CityWalk

Complimentary shuttle buses connect Universal Helios Grand Hotel with the CityWalk hub for Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure, with a separate route to Universal Volcano Bay. The ride takes around 15 minutes, and shuttles run from one hour before Early Park Admission begins until one hour after Universal CityWalk closes.

• Allow 30-45 minutes door to door for days at the other parks, including the shuttle ride and the walk through CityWalk security.
• Universal Volcano Bay is closed for annual maintenance from 26 October 2026, with a planned reopening on or before 1 April 2027, so the Volcano Bay shuttle will return when the water park reopens.
• Universal Epic Universe doesn't need a shuttle at all, because you've got your own entrance!
• Wheelchair users: Universal's shuttles have wheelchair lifts, and guests using ECVs and other mobility devices may be asked by the driver to transfer to a shuttle seat for the ride.

Spending the day at Islands of Adventure, then Epic Universe in the evening?

Here's a lovely way to enjoy both! Spend the day at Universal Islands of Adventure or Universal Studios Florida, hop on the shuttle back to the hotel to freshen up, then stroll through the dedicated entrance for dinner and Universal Celestial Goodnight in Epic Universe.

You'll need a ticket with park-to-park admission that includes Universal Epic Universe for this, as some multi-day tickets include Epic Universe as its own separate day. Our 14-day Universal Orlando tickets include unlimited park-to-park admission to Universal Epic Universe, giving you the freedom to plan your days however you like.

Watching Universal Celestial Goodnight from Helios Grand

Universal Celestial Goodnight is Universal Epic Universe's spectacular nighttime show, which debuted on 7 July 2026 and runs for nine magical minutes nightly at park close. More than 350 dancing fountains, nearly 600 synchronised light fixtures and seven million LED lights transform the whole of Celestial Park, celebrating every world of Epic Universe before a dazzling fireworks finale.

Universal Helios Grand Hotel is a wonderful place to enjoy it:

• Theme park view rooms look out over the fountains and lights of Celestial Park.
• Play the soundtrack in your room by selecting Media > Television > Universal Celestial Goodnight on your TV control console.
• Bar Helios is a magical spot for the show, with views across the park and the music playing on the rooftop.
• The fireworks launch over the lagoon in front of the hotel, so you're perfectly placed for the finale.
• Watching from Celestial Park? Helios Grand makes a stunning, glowing backdrop behind the fountains and fireworks.

Fancy even more time in the park after dark? Universal Nights is a separately ticketed after-hours event at Universal Epic Universe, with extra time on the rides, entertainment and character encounters once the park closes. Discover everything in our guide to Universal Nights at Epic Universe.

Pool, game room and amenities at Universal Helios Grand Hotel

Universal Helios Grand Hotel's amenities are designed for relaxing and recharging between your Universal adventures.

Resort-style pool

The hotel's 8,660 sq ft zero-entry pool is a beautiful Mediterranean-style escape, framed by swaying palms and a terraced sun deck. Little ones will love paddling in the gently sloping shallows, and there's plenty to enjoy for everyone:

• Underwater speakers, so you can enjoy the music as you float
• A hot tub and an outdoor fire pit for cosy evenings
• 18 private cabanas, available to rent for an additional fee
• Poolside movies on select evenings, plus yard games and family activities throughout the year
• Food and drinks ordered from Lotus Lagoon, right from your lounger

The pool is designed for laid-back lounging rather than waterslides, making it a peaceful spot to unwind after a busy morning in the park.

More to enjoy

• Game room: A fun arcade packed with games, with game cards available to buy.
• Fitness centre: Complimentary, with cardio and strength equipment, a stretching area, locker rooms with showers and lovely views over Celestial Park.
• Universal Studios Store: Epic Universe merchandise, gifts and travel essentials, right in the lobby.
• 24-hour business centre: Computers and printing, handy for boarding passes.
• Laundry: Self-service laundry facilities and valet dry-cleaning are available.
• Family extras: Pack 'n Plays are available free on request, and safety deposit boxes are complimentary at the front desk.

Dining at Universal Helios Grand Hotel

It's easy to work up an appetite on your intergalactic adventures, and Universal Helios Grand Hotel serves up fresh, Mediterranean-inspired flavours across four dining spots and 24-hour room service.

Flora Taverna

Flora Taverna is the hotel's all-day, table-service restaurant, with an open kitchen, wood-stone pizza ovens and a stunning floral ceiling.

Start your day with the full breakfast buffet or the Shawarma Spiced Beef Hash, then come back for lunch or dinner with Greek and Italian-inspired dishes such as a daily shawarma, wood-fired pizzas, fresh seafood, lamb and small plates. Dine indoors or al fresco with views over Celestial Park, and finish with a cocktail at the leafy lobby bar.

Bar Helios

Bar Helios is the crown jewel of the hotel, a sparkling rooftop lounge with 360-degree views across Universal Epic Universe and beyond.

The menu is all about elevated sharing plates, including a tableside Tomahawk Steak Experience, a Seafood Tower and a tiramisu-inspired Tableside Trifle. The cocktails are an adventure in themselves, with celestial creations grouped by the elements of Water, Air, Earth and Fire.

Bar Helios welcomes guests of all ages, but you'll need to be 21 or over with a valid photo ID to buy alcohol.

Aurora Market

Aurora Market is the hotel's contemporary grab-and-go coffee bar and market, just around the corner from the dedicated park entrance.

Pick up freshly made coffee drinks, croissants, pastries (including a daily gluten-free option), paninis, wraps and salads, plus locally sourced gelato and wine on tap. It opens early, from 6am to 11pm daily, so it's ready for you before Early Park Admission.

Lotus Lagoon

Lotus Lagoon is the poolside bar and grill, serving classic poolside favourites such as Angus burgers and chicken wings, alongside Mediterranean dishes including Greek souvlaki and kebabs. Pair them with a frozen cocktail, a cold beer or a refreshing soft drink, and order to your lounger for the ultimate lazy afternoon.

Room service

Room service is available 24 hours a day, with selections from Flora Taverna. Breakfast in bed with a park view is a wonderful way to start your holiday!

Booking a table at Flora Taverna and Bar Helios

Flora Taverna and Bar Helios are open to everyone, including guests staying elsewhere, and you don't need a park ticket to dine at either. We'd recommend booking your table as soon as your holiday dates are confirmed, online, through the Universal Orlando Resort app or website, or by calling the hotel. For show-time views at Bar Helios, aim for a table around 30-60 minutes before park close.

Dietary requirements and allergies

Keep an eye out for your pre-arrival communication from the hotel, where you can let the team know about any dietary needs so they're ready for you when you arrive. When you dine, tell your server about any allergies and ask to speak to the chef, who'll talk you through the options.

Plant-based guests will find options such as the Crispy Falafel starter at Flora Taverna, while Lotus Lagoon serves Chips & Dip with smashed avocado and a Hummus & Spreads starter. Our guide to food at Universal Orlando Resort has more tips.

Planning your stay at Universal Helios Grand Hotel

Check-in, check-out and hotel policies

• Check-in is from 4pm and check-out is by 11am, with mobile check-in available.
• Booking age: At least one guest in each room must be 21 or over (or 17 or over with an active military ID).
• Pets: Universal Helios Grand Hotel is a pet-free hotel.
• Smoke-free: Like all Universal Orlando Resort hotels, it's 100% smoke-free, apart from designated outdoor areas.
• Parking: Self-parking and valet parking are available for overnight guests for a nightly fee.

Arriving early or flying home late?

Bell Services can store your bags before check-in and after check-out, so you can head straight into the park on arrival day or enjoy one last ride before your flight. Late check-out may be available for an additional fee, and you're welcome to enjoy the pool and hotel amenities on your check-out day.

The locker rooms and showers are perfect for freshening up after a last dip and before the airport!

Splitting your stay with another Universal hotel?

A split stay is a lovely way to enjoy two different Universal hotel experiences. Luggage transfers between Universal hotels aren't an official hotel benefit, so the easiest option is a short taxi ride with your bags. Bell Services can hold your luggage while you enjoy the parks, ready for you to collect later.

Who will love staying at Universal Helios Grand Hotel?

Universal Helios Grand Hotel is the perfect choice if Universal Epic Universe is the highlight of your holiday. It's especially brilliant for:

• Epic Universe fans who want to be first through the portals in the morning and enjoy Universal Celestial Goodnight at night
• Families with young Dragon Riders, who'll love the How to Train Your Dragon Kids' Suites
• Couples and friends looking for rooftop cocktails, Mediterranean dining and unforgettable views
• Midday-break lovers, who'd like to pop back to the room or pool between park sessions
• Club Level fans, who love a relaxed breakfast and evening treats in a private lounge

A perfect Helios Grand day

Ready for your place in the sun?

Universal Helios Grand Hotel brings you closer to Universal Epic Universe than ever before, with a dedicated park entrance, stunning views, delicious dining and plenty of Mediterranean magic to come home to. It's a once-in-a-lifetime way to experience Universal Orlando Resort's newest theme park!

Book your Universal Helios Grand Hotel stay with AttractionTickets.com, and add your Universal Orlando tickets to complete your holiday. Choose from:

• Universal Orlando All Parks Ticket - 14 days of park-to-park admission to all four Universal parks, including Universal Volcano Bay, for arrivals from 1 April 2027
• Universal Orlando Three Park Adventure Ticket - 14 days of park-to-park admission to Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure and Universal Epic Universe, for arrivals from 20 October 2026 to 31 March 2027

Our Orlando experts are here to help you plan every detail, so get in touch and let's start planning your stay in the palace of the sun!