Universal has set the bar high with its brand-new flagship resort, Helios Grand Hotel, located at the heart of the upcoming Epic Universe theme park. Slated to open May 22, 2025, this celestial, Mediterranean-inspired resort combines luxury, immersive design, and direct access to Universal’s most ambitious theme park yet.
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We were able to tour the soon-to-open hotel on the evening of April 4th and share some thoughts and photos below…
The Helios Grand Hotel Vibe
From the moment you step into the lobby, Helios Grand leans fully into its sun-kissed, constellation-studded theme. Think grand celestial mosaics, soft hues of rose and blue, and flowing Mediterranean design with modern, upscale flair. It’s elegant without feeling stuffy—comfortable luxury with a cosmic twist.
Location, Location, Location
Helios Grand is perched above Celestial Park in Epic Universe, and it’s the only hotel with a dedicated entrance into the new theme park. That exclusive perk, combined with sweeping skyline and park views, puts this hotel at the top of the Universal hotel hierarchy.
Helios Rooms with a View
There are 500 rooms, including 35 suites, and some of the best theme park views in Orlando. Standard rooms are tasteful and tranquil, with impressionist-style floral artwork and celestial tones. Room options include park-facing, skyline, and pool views, plus upgraded club level rooms with lounge access.
Families will love the 14 “How to Train Your Dragon”-themed kids’ suites, perfect for little Vikings. (We didn’t get to see those rooms, but the concept art looks really cute.)
Helios Grand Hotel Dining & Drinks
There’s no shortage of places to eat and unwind:
- Flora Taverna: The main restaurant serves Mediterranean-inspired comfort food. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This is a stunning venue with theme park views just off the lobby!
- Flora Lobby Bar: Cocktails in a lush, garden-style setting.
- Aurora Market: Grab-and-go with coffee, wraps, paninis, and gelato for quick bites before the park.
- Lotus Lagoon: A poolside bar and grill offering snacks, drinks, and frozen cocktails by the water.
- Bar Helios: A rooftop spot with small plates, sliders, and jaw-dropping views of Epic Universe—one of the hotel’s standout experiences.
Helios Grand Hotel Amenities & Perks
- Resort-style pool, fitness center, and game room. The pool is expansive and offers a unique freeform layout that sweeps around the Lotus Lagoon lounge.
- Early park admission to select Universal parks
- Free transportation to CityWalk and other Universal parks
- Complimentary WiFi (premium upgrades available)
- In-room charging & merchandise delivery from the parks
- Wake-up calls from Universal characters
- And, perhaps most importantly, an entrance to Epic Universe just off the lobby!
What You Don’t Get At Universal Helios Grand Hotel
While the hotel has just about everything else, Express Passes are not included in your stay—something to keep in mind when budgeting your visit.
Helios Grand Hotel Practical Info
- Check-in: 4PM | Check-out: 11AM
- Self-parking: $36/night | Valet: $45/night
- No pets allowed
- Extra adults: $55/person/night beyond 2 adults per room
- Rollaways available for $35/day (limited availability)
The Verdict
Universal Helios Grand Hotel is a luxe new crown jewel for Universal Orlando Resort. With an unbeatable location, strong theme, and full slate of amenities, it promises to be the place to stay for Epic Universe visitors. Whether you’re there for the views, the rooftop cocktails, or the head start into the park, this hotel truly lives up to its celestial name.
Follow our ongoing coverage of Universal Epic Universe. There are a lot of photos, videos, and thoughts about the most ambitious theme park project in a generation…
Universal’s EPIC UNIVERSE: The Ultimate Guide (Rides, Lands, & More!)