Guides and Tips

A Couple’s Guide to Universal Orlando Resort

February 3, 2018
Universal Orlando Resort Globe - Couples

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

Hard Rock Hotel Rooms

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.

Hard Rock Hotel Rooms

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.

Hard Rock Hote Pool Area

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

Universal Studios Horror Make-Up Show

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

Loews Sapphire Falls Resort Pool

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

Lowe's Portifino Bay Resort Pool

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

Universal CityWalk

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

Waturi Fusion Ice Cream at Volcano Bay

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.

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4 Comments

  • Reply Kevin Crawford April 24, 2018 at 8:31 pm

    Thank you for solving the problem or answering the question about using other resort pools . I and many others were never sure about that . I thought it might be a good way to get a feel for the other resorts , you know see if we’re missing something some where else we might like ! Thanks again

  • Reply BYRON L. HARMON April 25, 2018 at 12:58 am

    Kristin, we may be coming to Universal in November. We are two adults and just turned 60. We love the parks and usually stay at Royal Pacific. We are always looking for a discount or lower rate to stay. I am retired military. Is it cheaper to stay at a resort where they offer head of the line access for a more expensive price or stay at a resort for a lower price and pay for the head of the line fee. We like Royal Pacific because of the boat transportation, but not locked in on any resort. WE are open to any resort for the best deal. Any thoughts? Thanks

    Byron

  • Reply Jerry Baughman April 25, 2018 at 4:33 am

    I’m. A florida residence with season premier passes. How do I get to enjoy the pools of the local hotels without getting a room? In the past I have got a room and found the pools are a wonderful sanctuary and refueling stop for mid day. Can you help me? I just can’t afford a room every time sadly. I could pay a small fee or will my premium passes work to get me in the pool areas? Thank you in advance. Jerry Baughman orlando

  • Reply douglas mumaw April 25, 2018 at 5:54 pm

    We have come as a couple twice now and loved it each time. Staying at the Hard Rock was indeed a sweet upgrade as it is so close to the parks and is less over run with kids.
    Not that kids are not fun though. Watching the youngsters revel in Harry Potter World was almost as much fun as watching my wife revel in it:) (yes she got her house robes and wand)
    We are looking forward to another visit and highly recommend seeing the Holiday decorations and the light show on the Hogwarts Castle. Simply amazing!!

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