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Summary of reviewsThe DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando has received commendable reviews across various categories, highlighting a generally positive experience for guests, particularly those visiting Universal Studios.
The hotel's location is frequently praised as its standout feature, offering incredible convenience for park-goers due to its proximity to Universal Studios and various dining and shopping options. The ease of access, either by walking or through a short shuttle ride, makes it an ideal choice for families and tourists aiming to maximize their time at the park.
Guests often laud the breakfast for its good selection, quality and attentive service, though some express concerns over the high cost. The delightful addition of warm cookies adds a special touch to the morning experience. Dinner options also receive positive remarks for taste and service, especially at the American Grill, despite some complaints about pricing and occasional subpar food quality at certain venues.
Room accommodations are complimented for their spaciousness and comfort, featuring convenient amenities like coffee machines, safes and fridges. Cleanliness is another highly valued aspect, though some guests note the need for renovation and occasional lapses in housekeeping consistency. Remarkable views, especially of Universal Studios and generally comfortable beds add to the appeal.
Consistent cleanliness in common areas and the attentiveness of staff significantly enhance the guest experience. The majority of guests found the hotel clean, though certain areas, particularly outdated rooms and bathrooms, require improvements. The staff earn high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness and professionalism, significantly contributing to a welcoming atmosphere.
The WiFi service offers mixed experiences; while some guests found the connectivity strong and reliable, others reported sporadic signals and slow speeds. The gym is regarded as well-equipped and clean, providing all necessary equipment for a satisfactory workout, though some find it slightly small.
The pool is a highlight for many, described as large, clean and family-friendly with additional amenities like a hot tub and a splash pad for kids. Despite occasional issues with water temperature and maintenance, it generally receives positive feedback.
Parking facilities are convenient and ample, but the high fees are a common gripe among guests. Nonetheless, the presence of EV charging stations is a favorable feature for eco-conscious travelers, albeit with slightly high charging fees.
Overall, the DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando offers a largely positive experience with its prime location, cleanliness, spacious rooms and friendly staff being major highlights. Despite some areas needing attention, particularly in terms of room updates and dining costs, it remains an excellent choice for families and tourists visiting Universal Orlando. Show more
Read review summaries for all categories
Categories
Hotel near Nightlife Spots
Near Universal Orlando, this hotel offers convenient access to Universal CityWalk's nightlife. CityWalk features a variety of bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
Business Hotel
DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando is an excellent choice for business travelers. It is conveniently situated for business meetings and events.
Hotel with EV Charging Stations
This hotel offers EV charging stations. It is located at the entrance to Universal Orlando, making it convenient for visiting the parks.
3-Star Hotel
Located directly across from Universal Orlando Resort, offering first-class amenities and numerous free services. Its proximity to the parks and overall convenience make it a top choice.
Hotel near Golf Courses
Hotel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability
Hotel for Honeymoon
Family Friendly Hotel
Dog Friendly Hotel
Hotel with Swimming Pool
Outdoor Pool
Accessible Hotel
Hotel with Gym
Hotel with Outdoor Pool
Room Types
King RoomThis room offers tea and coffee-making facilities, cable TV, and a small refrigerator.
King Room with View - Non-SmokingThis room includes a flat-screen TV, tea and coffee-making facilities, and a small refrigerator. The room also has a view of the Universal Orlando Resort.
Queen Room with Two Queen BedsThis room offers tea and coffee-making facilities, cable TV, and a small refrigerator.
Queen Room with Two Queen Beds and View - Non-SmokingThis room includes a flat-screen TV, tea and coffee-making facilities, and a small refrigerator. The room also has a view of the Universal Orlando Resort.
Corner Queen Room with Two Queen BedsThis room includes a flat-screen TV, tea and coffee-making facilities, and a small refrigerator.
Queen Room with Two Queen Beds - Mobility AccessThis room includes a flat-screen TV, tea and coffee-making facilities, and a small refrigerator.
Queen Room with Roll In Shower - Disability AccessThis room includes a flat-screen TV, tea and coffee-making facilities, and a small refrigerator.
King Room with Roll In Shower - Disability Access/Non-SmokingDisability access features include:
- strobe-light alarm systems
- 40-inch clearance on all doorways and between furnishings
Two-Bedroom Suite - Non-SmokingSuite features a separate seating area with a sofa bed. A small refrigerator and tea/coffee maker are also available. There is also a flat-screen TV with cable for guests to enjoy.
Corner King RoomThis corner room offers tea and coffee-making facilities, cable TV, and a small refrigerator.
Queen Room with Two Queen Beds - Mobility AccessThis accessible room includes a flat-screen TV. A small refrigerator and tea/coffee maker are also available.
Queen Room with Roll in Shower - Disability Access/Non-SmokingThis accessible room features a shower with roll-in access, flat-screen cable TV. A small refrigerator and tea/coffee maker are also available.
Parlor Room with Sofa BedThis single room has air conditioning, a tea and coffee maker and a flat-screen TV.
King Room - Non-SmokingThis single room has air conditioning, a tea and coffee maker and a flat-screen TV.
Guest Reviews
8.1
Very Good
Location
The DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando boasts an enviable location that is frequently praised by its guests. The hotel's proximity to Universal Studios is a standout feature with many highlighting the ease of access whether by a brief walk or a short shuttle ride. The convenience of being right across the street from the main entrance of Universal Studios significantly enhances the experience for visitors looking to spend their day at the park. Additionally, the hotel's central position within Orlando means it is also close to various restaurants, shopping outlets and other attractions, adding to its appeal. Guests appreciate the practical location as it ensures that everything from food and shopping to other theme parks is within easy reach. The combination of prime location and equally favorable amenities like spacious rooms and good customer service makes this hotel an excellent choice for families and tourists planning a Universal Orlando adventure.
Breakfast
The breakfast experience at DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando has received a mixed but generally positive response from guests. Many appreciated the good selection and variety of the food, noting that it was sufficient and very good. Some guests found the breakfast to be delicious with several highlighting the extensive and well-prepared buffet and even categorizing it as amazing or superb. The breakfast service also received compliments with friendly and attentive staff frequently mentioned.
However, the high cost of breakfast was a significant downside for many with several reviews describing it as expensive or overpriced. The buffet's pricing, at $27 per person or higher, was noted repeatedly as steep with some saying it wasn't worth the cost. Guests also expressed a desire for more variety and options with some noting that the selection can be repetitive or limited, especially for dietary needs such as vegetarian, low-calorie or low-carb foods.
Despite the price concerns, the overall quality of the breakfast was frequently praised, making it a highlight for many of the guests, especially those willing to pay the premium. Soft, warm cookies have also been mentioned as a delightful addition to the breakfast experience. For those who did include breakfast in their stay, many found it well worth the money, while others wished it was included in the room rate by default.
Dinner
Many guests of the DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando had a mixed but generally positive dining experience. While the in-house restaurant's food was frequently described as delicious, particularly the café and the American Grill, many also felt that the prices were quite steep. Some guests found the food at the bar subpar and overpriced with specific complaints about the grill restaurant's quality. On the brighter side, service at the American Grill received accolades for being amazing and memorable with staff members like Brenda standing out for their excellent service.
For those looking for variety, the hotel offers several dining options on site, including a pizza place and an ice cream spot, which were especially well-received. The Starbucks within the hotel was a favorite among guests and stayed open late, providing a convenient option for coffee lovers. However, some guests were disappointed by the high cost of food and drinks, as well as occasional issues with service efficiency and accuracy.
Despite the high prices, many guests appreciated the convenience of having multiple dining options available, both within the hotel and within walking distance. The lobby restaurant and poolside bar, though not always open, added to the variety of on-site amenities. The overall consensus is that while the dining options are good in terms of taste and convenience, they might not always offer the best value for money.
Rooms
The rooms at DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando offer a varied experience. Many guests highlighted the spacious and comfortable nature of the rooms, often mentioning the good size and convenient amenities like coffee machines, safes and fridges. Cleanliness was frequently praised with several reviews noting rooms as super clean, comfortable and featuring nice decor. Guests appreciated the fantastic views, especially of Universal Studios and found the beds generally comfortable.
However, there are notable areas needing attention. A common theme is the outdated nature of the rooms, particularly the bathrooms and furniture, which many guests found in need of renovation. Some rooms had issues with moldy or musty odors, visible wear and tear on carpets and outdated fixtures. Noise from air conditioning units and other guests also detracted from the comfort for some.
Daily housekeeping was not consistent with several reviews pointing out that rooms were often not cleaned during their stay, unless specifically requested. Various maintenance issues were reported, including malfunctioning bathroom fixtures, noisy door locks and broken elevators.
Overall, while the rooms are generally praised for their size and comfort, improvements in cleanliness, modernization and maintenance would significantly enhance the guest experience.
Beds
At the DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando, the bed experiences vary widely among guests. Many found the beds to be very comfortable, describing them as super comfortable, spacious and well-maintained. Numerous guests particularly appreciated the clean, comfy bed sheets and soft pillows that made for a restful sleep. The beds were often praised for being large and soft, adding to the overall comfort.
However, there is a considerable amount of feedback highlighting less favorable experiences. Some guests reported that the beds were uncomfortable, too firm or even hard as a rock. Issues such as mattresses being extremely hard or too soft and pillows being flat or lumpy, were mentioned repeatedly. Several guests pointed out that the beds were smaller than expected or that the bed sheets were too small and kept popping off.
Overall, opinions on bed quality at the DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando are mixed with guests experiencing a wide range of comfort and discomfort. The variation seems significant, suggesting inconsistencies in the bedding provided across different rooms.
Cleanliness
DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando garners mixed reviews regarding its cleanliness, though the majority lean toward the positive. Guests frequently describe the hotel and rooms as very clean, comfortable and well-maintained, highlighting the daily housekeeping efforts and spotless lobby areas. The linens, floors and overall hotel environment often receive commendable remarks, contributing to a clean and refreshing stay.
However, several reviews point out areas needing improvement, particularly outdated decor and fixtures in some rooms and lobbies. Instances of mold, dirty carpets, stained furniture and missed spots by housekeeping were noted by some guests, suggesting inconsistency in cleaning standards. Bathrooms, in particular, seem to require better attention with specific mentions of scum buildup, rust and poor water pressure.
Despite these concerns, many guests still find the hotel to be a good value for money due to its cleanliness and convenient location near Universal Orlando. It appears that while there are occasional lapses, the overall guest experience in terms of cleanliness remains largely positive, supported by attentive staff and well-kept facilities.
Staff
The reviews of the staff at the DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando are overwhelmingly positive. Guests frequently highlighted the staff's friendliness, helpfulness and professionalism, describing them as welcoming, accommodating and eager to assist. The reception staff and front desk personnel received particular praise for their courteous and efficient service with specific mentions of standout employees such as Denise at the Universal desk and Tori and Ariel at check-in.
Guests appreciated the warm welcome gestures, like the arrival cookies and noted that the staff often went out of their way to ensure an enjoyable stay. The housekeeping team was commended for their attentiveness and quick responses, while waitstaff in the restaurants were recognized for their friendliness and attentiveness, making special occasions even more memorable.
There were a few mentions of less optimal experiences, such as some unhelpful or rude interactions at the front desk and occasional lapses in professional conduct. However, these instances seemed to be exceptions rather than the norm. On the whole, the staff at this hotel left a significant positive impression on the guests, contributing greatly to their overall experience.
Wi-Fi
The WiFi experience at DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando has varied among its guests. Many praised the hotel for providing free WiFi in the rooms with several mentioning that the WiFi was strong, reliable and fast. High-speed internet access was appreciated by those who had a seamless browsing experience. However, not all guests shared the same sentiment; some encountered issues such as sporadic signals, slow speeds or consistent connectivity problems. There were also a few mentions of having to pay for WiFi or experiencing no WiFi at all. Overall, while many had positive experiences with the hotel's internet service, others found it lacking in consistency and reliability.
Gym
The gym at the DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando has received mixed feedback from guests. Many reviews highlight the gym as well-equipped and nicely maintained with positive remarks about the variety of equipment available. Descriptors like good quality, well-kitted out and well-equipped convey an overall satisfactory experience. Guests also appreciated the cleanliness of the facility. However, some pointed out that the gym was slightly small, although still described it as sufficient or effective. It's mentioned that the gym facilities are good and offer essential equipment, contributing to a positive workout experience. In summary, while some guests found it lacking in size, the general consensus is that the gym provides all the necessary amenities for a good workout.
Pool
The DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando generally garners positive reviews for its pool area. Visitors frequently describe the main pool as large, beautiful and meticulously maintained with many appreciating that it is heated, making it a great option for year-round swimming. Guests also have good things to say about the hot tub, which they find of good quality and often mention is open late, adding to the convenience.
Families seem to enjoy the hotel's pool amenities, including a splash pad for kids and feel the area is pleasant and family-friendly overall. The pool area is described as inviting, spacious and clean, though it can get crowded at times. Several reviews highlight the nice size of the pool and the lovely setting, which includes outdoor spaces that add to the overall ambiance.
However, there are a few criticisms to note. Some guests found the pool water too cold or the pool area in need of renovation. Occasional maintenance issues were mentioned and the poolside bar's early closing time was a disappointment to a few. While the majority praise the pool's cleanliness, others encountered it being closed multiple times due to weather, as well as some general crowding and comfort issues with the pool chairs.
Overall, the pool earns positive remarks for its size, heating and cleanliness, making it a standout feature of the hotel despite occasional minor drawbacks.
Parking
Visitors to the DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando have shared mixed feedback regarding the hotel's parking facilities. Many guests appreciated the convenience and availability of ample parking spaces with some highlighting the spaciousness of the parking lot and its ease of access. Moreover, the presence of complimentary shuttle services to Universal Studios added a positive note for many.
However, a recurring theme among the reviews was the high cost of parking with several guests expressing concerns over the daily fees, which ranged from $23 to $40, depending on the parking option chosen. This was perceived as an additional, often unexpected, expense that was not always communicated clearly in advance.
Some visitors also encountered technical issues with the key card system, which affected their parking experience. Additionally, while valet services were available, they were also noted to be quite costly.
Overall, while the parking facilities were found to be plentiful and convenient, the associated fees were generally considered excessive by many guests, contrasting with the hotel's otherwise positive amenities.
EV charging stations
The DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando offers EV charging stations, including options for Tesla vehicles. Guests have noted the convenience of having electric vehicle charging available onsite with several mentions of EV chargers installed in the parking lot. Despite the presence of these facilities, some guests felt that the charging fees were on the higher side. Overall, the availability of EV charging has been a positive feature for those driving electric cars, enhancing the hotel's appeal for eco-conscious travelers.
Family
DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando stands out as a fantastic destination for families visiting the theme parks. Families will find the spacious family suites and rooms to be exceptionally accommodating with ample space even for a family of four. The hotel’s strategic location makes it convenient for families to access the parks, especially with the hotel's transportation service running various hours, easing the logistics of a busy day out.
The hotel’s amenities aim to cater to all family members, offering numerous family-friendly features and services. The clean rooms, child-friendly meals and the availability of options like baby beds and children’s beds ensure a comfortable stay for guests of all ages. The well-maintained family pool is a highlight with many children loving the chance to splash around and play, although there were some mentions that the splash pad was not operational.
Families have reported great experiences, citing the environment as very welcoming and perfect for numerous family-centric vacations. There are also spaces designed for family events, making it suitable for wholesome, shared moments. Additionally, the hotel provides a sense of community with staff fostering a family-friendly atmosphere.
Overall, the DoubleTree by Hilton proves itself to be an excellent choice for family accommodations with convenient amenities and services aimed at making a family vacation as enjoyable and hassle-free as possible. Despite a few minor issues, this hotel remains a recommended spot for families aiming for an enjoyable stay close to Universal Orlando.
Nightlife
DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando provides guests with a convenient location for enjoying the local nightlife. Although some reviews mention that local nightlife isn't particularly impressive, there are still a variety of nearby options that guests find enjoyable and exciting. With several bars and restaurants within walking distance, there are ample opportunities for dining and evening entertainment. Additionally, some reviews highlight the lively atmosphere with live music and night events, contributing to an overall enjoyable experience. The hotel also offers some onsite nightlife options, ensuring guests have convenient access to fun activities without needing to venture far. For those looking to explore further, the view of Universal at night suggests a vibrant environment, promising a memorable stay.
4 Star
DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando offers a commendable experience, largely meeting the expectations of a four-star hotel. Visitors frequently find the establishment to be a great hotel, often mentioning its beautiful and lovely design. The quality is good overall with many guests noting the clean and reliable services.
The hotel's superb location, being exceptionally close to Universal Orlando, is a significant advantage, contributing to the enjoyable four-star experience. The amenities and services on offer align well with four-star standards, including a sizable pool and wellness facilities, which enhance the overall resort feel. The accommodations are above average, ensuring a relaxing stay.
Despite the many positive aspects, some guests note that the hotel does not always meet four-star standards, particularly when compared to European benchmarks. The upkeep in certain areas, such as showers and baths, occasionally appears dated and rusty. Parking can also be a challenge.
Overall, the DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando is seen as providing excellent value for its price. While there are areas for improvement, the hotel generally lives up to a four-star rating with good facilities, services and a friendly atmosphere making it a worthwhile choice for visitors.
Business
The DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando is an excellent choice for business travelers. The hotel offers good facilities for business trips, including well-appointed conference rooms, a useful business center with multiple desktops and meeting rooms available for use. Guests appreciate the good working desk in the room and reliable internet for business use.
The location is outstanding, conveniently situated for business meetings and events and the service for business guests is highly regarded. The hotel is often used for conferences and corporate events, providing satisfactory meeting venues and a perfect setting for business activities. Despite some minor issues such as the need for modernizing the meeting rooms and occasional noise in the rooms, the overall experience is positive.
The professional and courteous staff add to the business-friendly atmosphere, ensuring that business travelers feel prioritized. While breakfast is not always included, the conference facilities and business center more than compensate. Parking can be a bit frustrating, but this does not detract significantly from the hotel's appeal to business guests. All things considered, the DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando is a great destination for business stays and corporate meetings.
Accessible
The 'DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando' offers a generally accessible experience for guests with disabilities. The hotel boasts accessible rooms and allocated parking spots for accessible vehicles, as well as ramps and accessible entry points. The proximity to Universal Studios is quite convenient with accessible transportation options, including shuttles, to and from the theme parks. Guests praised the easy access features, including curb-accessible areas, service elevators and well-functioning elevators for the most part. Specific accommodations such as disability showers and technical room adjustments to fit wheelchairs were also highlighted positively.
However, not all reviews were entirely favorable. Some guests noted the entrance was not particularly wheelchair-friendly and the accessible facilities did not meet a few customers' expectations. While some found the elevators to be reliable, others experienced issues with inoperative elevators and had to be moved to lower floors. There were also mentions of needed improvements, such as shower heads being covered in scum and the need for better sink cleaning.
Despite these few drawbacks, the hotel's central location and the convenience of in-house amenities like a Starbucks, along with good general access features, make it a viable option for travelers with disabilities aiming to visit the Universal Orlando area.
Outdoor Pool
The outdoor pool at DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando receives high praise from guests, noted for its expansive size and well-maintained conditions. Many describe it as pleasant and lovely with several mentions of it being clean and well-kept. Families particularly appreciate the spacious pool and hot tub area, which includes a splash pad for children.
Guests also comment on the good temperature of the heated pool and enjoy the surrounding amenities, such as the outside bar and lounge areas. The combination of the pool, hot tub and fire pit creates a relaxing atmosphere, making it a highlight for many.
However, a few reviews mention that the pool can get overcrowded and that the water was sometimes too warm or slightly salty and dirty. Additionally, there were occasional closures and some facilities, like the kiddie pool, being locked.
Overall, the pool area is described as very nice, better than expected and a fantastic feature of the hotel, though some aspects may need updating to enhance the guest experience further.
Honeymoon
DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando garners a mixed reception regarding its offerings for honeymooners. While described as a wonderful honeymoon spot with a romantic setting, there are some limitations to note. The honeymoon suite, although small, is appreciated for its overall niceness with the hotel's ambiance considered perfect for a romantic getaway. Despite some guests feeling that the honeymoon package is overpriced and limited in decor and inclusions, the hotel's efforts in creating memorable experiences are evident, such as making anniversaries special. Additionally, the pool area adds to the allure as guests express their enjoyment. Overall, the hotel is viewed positively for honeymooners seeking a romantic and memorable stay.
Romantic
DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando offers a romantic ambiance that is ideal for couples looking for a serene getaway. Guests have highlighted the romantic atmosphere and peaceful setting, making it a great spot for a couples vacation or a nice staycation with a partner. The hotel's large jacuzzi and the fire pit with lounge chairs provide a perfect setting for a late-night drink or just to hang out, enhancing the romantic vibe. Despite the lack of specific romantic packages or entries, the overall experience has been described as perfect for couples with several mentioning a romantic getaway. The romantic and peaceful environment stands out to guests, making it a recommended destination for those seeking a romantic escape.
Dog Friendly
The DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando is recognized for its dog-friendly facilities, offering both dog-friendly rooms and suites. The hotel's dog-friendly policy is highly regarded with impressive amenities tailored for pets. Despite some restrictions on dog-friendly areas, the overall environment is accommodating to guests traveling with their furry friends. While there were occasional remarks about hallways smelling like wet dogs, the general consensus highlights the hotel as an excellent choice for pet owners.
Yes, DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Outdoor Pool.
No, a spa isn't available at DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando.
Yes, DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando welcomes dogs.
No, parking facilities aren't available at DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando.
Yes, DoubleTree by Hilton at the Entrance to Universal Orlando has a gym.