Let me take you behind the scenes of my stay at Universal Stella Nova Resort. I'll share what delighted me, what fell short, and whether it’s worth staying at for your next Universal Orlando getaway.
Arrival
Driving up to Stella Nova, the first thing that struck me was the exterior design. It has shimmering, color-shifting tiles, and a modern, space-age aesthetic. You can see it's sister resort across the street, Terra Luna.
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The Lobby |
Check-in was efficient, the lobby is airy with cosmic touches, and staff were welcoming. They also send text updates during your stay. We arrived at 1:30pm having just rode the Brightline train from Miami. Our room wasn't ready yet. We had to wait until about 3pm to get the text. We explored inside and out, and ate lunch in the café, which was very good. We had the grilled cheese and tomato soup, the chicken noodle soup, macaroni and cheese, and chicken sandwich. There's also a Starbucks here, although it's not labeled as such on the outside.
The Rooms
We booked two rooms, which were standard rooms connecting. Each had two queen beds (fits up to four guests) which is the max here. No rollaway beds are available. With two connecting rooms you can fit 8, though.
I appreciated lots of USB and USB-C charging ports, power outlets in convenient spots. The TV even had a QR code so you could use your phone as a remote, and link your streaming services.
The bathroom was split style — sink/vanity in main area, and a separate door for the shower/toilet. This setup helps when two people are trying to get ready.
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Interior Doors |
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2 queen room |
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Split bath, separated from the beds with a glass partition |
The “starship window” (oval window) is neat and depending on your room side you could see either the pool or Epic Universe, like us. The beds were comfortable, perhaps on the firmer side. The bedding is simple and thin, without a comforter. Each room had a mini fridge and coffee station.
Overall, the room checked all the essentials, and the theming was clean, futuristic and bright. I didn't notice a signature scent like some other hotels like Hard Rock or Sapphire Falls. Connecting rooms are abundant here but not guaranteed when requested.
What I loved about the resort
It’s classified as a “Prime Value Resort” within the Universal hotel lineup (similar in to Aventura) but it feels like a moderate level for sure. It has interior entry doors, like the Disney Deluxe resorts do, and everything is contained in one building, so no walking anywhere in the rain or hot sun.
There’s a ~10,000-square-foot resort-style pool, huge hot tub, and a splash pad for kids, tons of lounge seating, fire pit, poolside games like giant Connect Four, and nightly poolside movies. The hotel has a self-serve arcade/game room, fitness center, and a sandy "beach" area near the pool.
Complimentary shuttle buses to Universal CityWalk, Islands of Adventure, and Universal Studios Florida and Epic Universe run consistently. Also, guests get early park admission up to 1 hour before official opening.
Because Stella Nova is adjacent to Epic Universe there is a walking path to the park. I didn't use the path, it seems long to me in the hot sun, with kids. We opted for the bus ride which was under 5 minutes. There’s a Universal Studios store on-site for souvenirs, essentials, etc. Also, merchandise bought elsewhere in Universal can be shipped to your hotel room for free.
Dining
Cosmos Cafe & Market- The main quick-service restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Menu features American classics: burgers, paninis, fried chicken, pasta, salads, sandwiches. There’s a grab-and-go market next door for snacks, Starbucks drinks, etc.The flexibility of the quick-service model is helpful; being able to get something for breakfast, lunch, or dinner in the same spot is convenient.
Galaxy Bar & Galaxy Grill- Poolside bar & grill. Order burgers, quesadillas, salads, etc. You can order ahead and pick up. Full bar for adults (21+) with beer, wine, cocktails. Poolside dining is super convenient — perfect for lazy afternoons or when you don’t want to leave the pool.
Nova Bar (Lobby Bar / Lounge) - A lounge in the lobby offering craft cocktails. Also carries classic drinks, beer, and wine.
What I didn't love:
- There is no full sit-down dining option on-site, but that's normal for this hotel category.
- The rooms only sleep 4 without the option for a rollaway.
- It's a 15 minute ride to CityWalk and the other parks.
- No water-slides like some of the other resorts.
We were only planning to visit Epic Universe so thats the #1 reason I booked a stay at Stella Nova. Since it's right across from the new park, with a walking path connecting you. If your trip will center on Epic, this is a huge win. You could get even closer by staying IN the park at Helios Grand Hotel!
Stay here if your trip is mostly about Epic Universe and you prefer modern, fresh design with amenities that cover the basics for an affordable rate! If you'd like to price and plan your Universal Vacation with one of our specialists, Fill Out A Quote Form!
Check out another great hotel located inside Epic Universe, The Helios Grand Hotel!
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