Inside Universal Helios Grand Hotel: A Mediterranean-Inspired Oasis at Epic Universe for Unmatched Luxury and Adventure

Published on June 6, 2025

Universal Helios Grand Hotel, the latest addition to the Orlando theme park scene, opened its doors on May 22, 2025, with a unique Mediterranean-inspired design that seamlessly blends into the newly launched Epic Universe. Co-owned by Loews Hotels, this 500-room hotel promises an elevated experience for guests planning to explore the theme park. With exclusive perks such as early park access and a dedicated entrance to Epic Universe, this luxurious hotel is designed to provide the perfect mix of comfort, convenience, and adventure.

The Helios Grand Hotel’s design reflects the vibrant Mediterranean coast, offering a tranquil yet sophisticated atmosphere for visitors seeking relaxation after a day of thrilling theme park adventures. From its spacious rooms and themed suites to its signature dining experiences, the hotel provides an all-encompassing luxury experience, while its close proximity to Epic Universe ensures that guests are always just a stone’s throw away from the action.

Let’s take a closer look at the highlights of this brand-new property, from the stunning lobby to the lively pool area, and explore why Universal Helios Grand Hotel should be at the top of your list for your next Orlando getaway.

Why Universal Helios Grand Hotel is a Game-Changer for Orlando

Universal Helios Grand Hotel is not just another theme park hotel—it’s a destination in itself. Here’s why it stands out in Orlando’s bustling hospitality scene:

• Exclusive Park Access: The hotel’s guests enjoy early access to Epic Universe and a dedicated entrance, ensuring that you can be among the first to experience all that this exciting new theme park has to offer.
• Mediterranean-Inspired Design: From the moment you step into the lobby, the hotel’s Mediterranean theme envelops you in its airy, light-filled ambiance. Inspired by the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean, the design features expansive windows, natural light, and stylish furnishings that enhance the guest experience.
• Luxurious Amenities: Whether you’re lounging by the pool, indulging in fine dining, or relaxing in a themed suite, the hotel’s amenities are designed to provide top-tier luxury and comfort.
• Seamless Integration with Epic Universe: The Helios Grand Hotel’s location and design ensure that it serves as the perfect base for exploring Universal’s Epic Universe, with quick and easy access to all the park’s attractions.

A Closer Look at Universal Helios Grand Hotel

The Universal Helios Grand Hotel offers a wide variety of facilities and features designed to make your stay as comfortable and memorable as possible. Here’s an inside look at the key areas of this stunning property:

Lobby and Flora Taverna

The lobby of Universal Helios Grand Hotel greets guests with its expansive, light-filled space, decorated with Mediterranean touches. Large windows overlook Celestial Park, offering a preview of the expansive Epic Universe theme park just beyond. The lobby area also includes a retail shop and the Aurora Market, where guests can grab coffee and snacks to fuel their adventures.

Flora Taverna, the hotel’s all-day restaurant, is situated just off the lobby. With a menu featuring Mediterranean-inspired dishes, guests can dine under the olive trees indoors or enjoy al fresco dining on the outdoor terrace. The open show kitchen adds a dynamic touch to the restaurant, where guests can watch chefs prepare pizzas, grilled items, and gyros.

Holly Fuller, social media manager for Loews Hotels, noted that the design of Flora Taverna captures the essence of the Mediterranean’s seamless connection between outdoor and indoor spaces, adding to the restaurant’s light and airy atmosphere.

Pool and Lotus Lagoon

One of the standout features of the hotel is its expansive pool area. The Lotus Lagoon pool area is a retreat in itself, with 18 private cabanas, a hot tub, and plenty of lounging space. The zero-entry pool stretches back to offer a mix of quiet relaxation and organized activities, including pool games like cornhole and big Connect Four.

The hotel’s cabanas offer a luxurious escape, with amenities such as ceiling fans, TVs, comfortable seating, and a complimentary platter of fruit and drinks. For poolside dining, guests can enjoy food and drinks from Lotus Lagoon, the hotel’s poolside bar and grill.

“The Lotus Lagoon is inspired by Greek mythology, where the Lotus Eaters consumed fruit that induced a blissful state, which is exactly the experience we aim to create here,” Fuller explained.

Rooms and Suites

The hotel offers 500 rooms, including 35 suites and 34 ADA-compliant rooms. Guests can choose from a variety of accommodations, many of which boast views of the Epic Universe park. The rooms are designed with conceptual artwork inspired by the moon phases, adding a unique and artistic touch to the decor.

Families traveling with children will appreciate the themed suites, including How to Train Your Dragon-themed kids’ rooms. All rooms come with complimentary Wi-Fi, turn-down service, and room service, ensuring a seamless and luxurious stay.

Bar Helios

Located on the top floor of the hotel, Bar Helios has quickly become a hotspot for guests looking to unwind after a day at the theme park. With its stylish and comfortable atmosphere, the bar offers a range of creative cocktails, small bites, and indulgent desserts.

The bar features an inviting circular layout, an intimate dining area, and a beautiful outdoor terrace with stunning views of the surrounding park and beyond. Signature offerings at Bar Helios include wagyu beef sliders, seafood towers, and inventive cocktails like the Shattered Rose, an interactive dessert that has garnered social media attention.

Additional Amenities and Services

Universal Helios Grand Hotel goes above and beyond to ensure that guests have everything they need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay. The hotel offers:

• Fitness Center: Stay active during your visit with a fully equipped fitness center on the hotel’s first level.
• Game Room: Families and kids can enjoy the hotel’s game room, which features a variety of entertainment options.
• Exclusive Perks: Hotel guests have access to early park admission and a dedicated entrance to Epic Universe, allowing for a more streamlined and enjoyable park experience.
• Event Spaces: The hotel also features event spaces for corporate meetings, special occasions, and private events, making it an ideal destination for both leisure and business travel.

Conclusion: A Perfect Blend of Luxury and Adventure

Universal Helios Grand Hotel offers the best of both worlds: the excitement of Epic Universe and the relaxation of a Mediterranean-inspired resort. Whether you’re visiting for the day or planning a longer stay, this hotel provides the ideal base for exploring Universal’s latest theme park. With its luxurious accommodations, exclusive perks, and unique design, Universal Helios Grand Hotel ensures that your Orlando vacation will be one to remember.

From its stunning pool and dining experiences to its stylish rooms and VIP services, the hotel provides an exceptional guest experience that is second to none. Book your stay at Universal Helios Grand Hotel and get ready to experience Orlando like never before.