EDITOR’S NOTE: This blog was originally published Feb. 3, 2018 and then underwent extensive updates and editing in the fall of 2020 to remain current and relevant.
Universal Orlando Resort may be known as a family destination, but with a handful of top-notch hotels and a diverse dining and bar scene, it’s also a place primed for couples. Headed there for your a special occasion or just a fun time out together? Use this as your planning guide.
Stay at the Hard Rock Hotel
Universal Orlando has unique hotels to choose from. But the sexiest of all – and, perhaps more importantly, the one that seems to attract fewer small children – is the Hard Rock Hotel. With its music memorabilia-lined interior and sophisticated boutique vibe, it’s a rock ‘n roll getaway like nothing else.
The 12,000-square-foot pool has regular live music and is equipped with an underwater sound system. The Palm is a great spot for dinner, and the Velvet Bar appeals to the late night crowd looking for a libation or midnight snack. Big fan of rock ‘n roll? Check out “The Sound of Your Stay” program, where the hotel will loan you an electric guitar or bass to jam out during your stay, or let you borrow a turntable with a selection of records.
In between exploring the theme parks and enjoying the pool, you can browse the hotel’s music memorabilia, all artfully woven into the interior design plan.
Pro Tip: Plan your visit to overlap with the last Thursday of the month from January through October, then book your ticket for a Velvet Session. The lobby of the hotel is transformed into an intimate live music venue where world-famous bands come to play.
Get an Exclusive Tour of the Parks
Want to experience Universal Orlando just the two of you with a private tour guide? Book a VIP Experience, and you’ll be assigned a personal guide to escort you through the parks. You’ll get exclusive perks like private entrances at attractions throughout Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure, gain insider information and see parts of Universal that many park-goers never get to see.
Pool Hop Around the Resort
If you’re staying at one of Universal Orlando’s hotels, you can use the other hotels’ amenities, too. Take advantage of that and spend the day hopping from hotel to hotel. Check out Loews Sapphire Falls Resort‘s water slide, Cabana Bay Beach’s 50s retro poolside fun, Loews Royal Pacific Resort‘s sparkling lagoon and the private, adults-only pool at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel.
Get Your Pamper On
What better way to signal you’re on a real vacation than checking into Mandara Spa at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel for a couples’ treatment? The Italian-inspired property conceals a 13,000-square-foot spa that’s outfitted with 14 private treatment rooms, two couples’ rooms, a hydro-therapy pool and more.
Go Out on the Town
One of the many perks of staying on-property at Universal Orlando is the easy access to Universal CityWalk, which is a quick stroll from the Hard Rock Hotel.
There, you can sip margaritas at Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food, indulge in a feast for your taste buds at The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen, and finish the night taking the stage at Rising Star, where a full band backs your karaoke efforts.
Embrace Your Inner Child
So you don’t have children? That doesn’t mean you can’t be the kid yourself – at least for a short time. You’re on vacation now: Lower your inhibitions, order that Waturi Fusion ice cream at Universal Volcano Bay and let loose while you soak up hours, if not days, of theme park fun with your significant other in tow.
Have you enjoyed Universal Orlando Resort as a couple? Share with us what some of your favorite things to do together during your visit.