There are so many choices for hotels in Orlando, but the Hyatt House offers expanded space for families right across the street from the entrance to Universal.
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Location
Positioned as close to Universal Studios Orlando without being on property, the Hyatt House Across From Universal Resort (Hyatt House Universal henceforth) offers guests a walkable distance to the theme parks. Nearby are a number of restaurants and Premium outlets for those wishing to shop. Easy access from I-4 makes driving in a breeze, and the hotel is not far from Orlando International Airport.
Address: 5940 Caravan Ct, Orlando, FL 32819 (United States)
Phone: +1 407-352-5660
Property
There are a pair of entrances to the hotel. The front offers a driveway for unloading luggage and checkin, the back entrance for those who have found parking (as we did) in the rear. Both are impressive entrances, and at the back there is a concierge desk for booking Universal tickets and other area entertainment.
The hotel offers more first-floor space than most Hyatt Houses. The outdoor pool is larger than the average from the chain and offers an outdoor seating area with fireplaces. It has an indoor/outdoor option off the bar extending the party through large retractable doors during busy nights.
In addition, the hotel offers more space for working and dining than I have ever seen at a Hyatt House property anywhere in the world. The chain features free breakfast (hot and cold items) and is a step above most “select service” properties (that feature cereal and a do-it-yourself waffle iron) but stops just short of an omelet station.
There was seating for more than 100 guests in this area, a substantial undertaking and not matched by any other Hyatt House Orlando property.
The property also includes access to the on-site fitness center, though I didn’t visit on this short stay.
World of Hyatt Benefits
All guests, regardless of participation in the World of Hyatt loyalty program have access to free breakfast and these guest areas. Those Globalists who redeem points for their stay won’t pay for parking ($25/nightly self-park) and may get an upgrade to the suite we checked into. Depending on the level, they may earn elevated points for their stay, and extend their stay through late check out times, up to 4 PM.
Suite
While I may have been able to upgrade for free into this suite, I secured it in advance using points and cash to remove any question that I would secure it. We were traveling with our family of three and my 20-year-old nephew and wanted to ensure there would be a separate sleeping area.
Entering the suite, we were greeted by the full kitchen which makes longer stays even more comfortable for families. There’s also a breakfast bar/kitchen table that makes a great space to work from for those who may be on longer stays than our one-night visit.
Living Room
The kitchen leads into the living room where the couch converts to a queen-sized bed. Unlike some properties that use the same TV swiveled to either the kitchen or the living room, this room offers one TV on each side, which can make it easier for larger parties, especially those with children.
The space was ample and, frankly, the living room and kitchen were sufficient space for some apartments excluding the bedroom entirely.
Bedroom
The bedroom was a standard hotel room with a closet, TV, and a pair of queen beds in our case, though a single King is an option.
Bathroom
The bathroom offered plenty of room, though I would have preferred access from the kitchen/living room as well. Our specific situation was a perfect example of why this simple door (on an unoccupied wall, they could just install a door) would have added value for us. Our nephew would have to enter our bedroom to access the bathroom, whereas, if there was a second door off the kitchen, guests could use the bathroom without entering our personal space. He was family so it wasn’t a big deal, but this is such a small add that I am not sure why it wasn’t designed that way in the first place.
Value
Nightly rates range from $150-250/night depending on the time of year and the vacancy of the property. Universal Orlando Resort offers two theme parks, Universal Studios Orlando and Islands of Adventure, as well as Volcano Bay (water park), themed restaurants, and attractions all at the doorstep of the Hyatt House Universal. For those using points, 12,000 points per night is the average cost and is a reasonable redemption if cash rates are toward the high end of the range. At the lower end of the range, I’d recommend using cash, at the higher end, use points.
What do you think? Have you stayed in this property? How was your experience?
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