Florida tourists with pets can stay at pet-friendly hotels and resorts near Universal Studios Orlando and other theme parks, such as Disney and SeaWorld.
Travelers with pets who plan to visit Universal Studios Orlando – or other nearby attractions, Walt Disney World and SeaWorld Orlando – are in luck when it comes to housing options. Several pet-friendly resorts and hotels close to Universal Studios provide comfortable vacation accommodations that welcome dogs and cats.
At most pet-friendly hotels and resorts, dogs and cats must have updated vaccinations, and guests will be required to provide veterinarian records confirming this.
Universal Studios Orlando – Pet-Friendly Resorts and Hotels
While there are a number of Orlando-area pet-friendly resorts, few offer pet amenities equal to those offered at Universal Studios’ three on-site Loews hotels – Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel, and Royal Pacific Resort – which participate in Loews Loves Pets program.
Portofino Bay is themed to the Italian Rivera, while the Hard Rock Hotel offers a California casual atmosphere with a rock ‘n roll vibe. The Royal Pacific Resort, the most upscale property, evokes island getaways inspired by Hawaii, Bali, and Fiji.
Amenities at these AAA Four-Diamond hotels include recreation such as themed pools and kids’ programs; on-site dining options and 24-hour room service; and spas and fitness centers. Rooms and suites provide high-quality bedding and towels, flat-panel HD televisions, Keurig coffee makers, and wireless internet. Guests enjoy Free Universal Express access, which minimizes wait times at Universal Studios attractions.
These lodgings are not only close to Universal Studios Orlando, but approximately five miles from SeaWorld and eight miles from Walt Disney World Resort.
Universal Studios Orlando and Lowes Loves Pets Program
At the Universal Studios Loews hotels, pets receive VIP Treatment. Loews Loves Pet program welcomes up to two dogs and cats per room. Upon check-in, guests receive a pet bowl, a special door tag, a welcome treat, and important local information for a pet’s well-being: dog-walking routes, pet stores, pet-sitting and grooming services, and veterinarians.
Loews’ pet policies designate dog-walking areas and state pets must be attended at all times; Loews can help guests secure outside pet-sitting services and recommend day kenneling options. Guests are also responsible for cleaning up after pet waste and making housekeeping arrangements. A $25 one-time cleaning fee applies. Guests stay in designated pet-friendly rooms within each hotel.
Visit Universal Studios Orlando to learn more about the Loews hotels and their pet policies, or use these direct phone numbers to request more information:
- Loews Portofino Bay Hotel: 407-503-1000 (hotel) or 1-888-430-4999 (reservations).
- Hard Rock Hotel: 407.503.2000 or 1- 888-832-7155.
- Loews Royal Pacific Resort: 407-503-3000 or 1-888-430-4999.
Pet-Friendly Hotels Near Universal Studios Orlando
Guests who do not wish to stay on-site at Universal Studios Orlando might consider the following options. Close to Universal Studios, as well as Walt Disney World and SeaWorld, these accommodations offer pet-friendly alternatives to the above, generally more expensive, lodgings.
Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Orlando – Universal Studios is located directly across the street and within walking distance of Universal theme parks. The hotel is undergoing renovations to upgrade rooms and public areas, including the pool areas. Rooms offer double beds, cable television with Pay-Per-View and games, and complimentary high-speed internet; the one- and two-bedroom suites feature kitchen facilities and a separate sitting area.
In addition to the pool and other recreation areas, hotel amenities include laundry facilities, a fitness area, business and meeting space, complimentary shuttle to Universal attractions, and free parking. There is also an on-site TGIF restaurant.
Pets up to 40 pounds are welcome for a flat $50 fee. There is a dog-walking area on the property. For more information about the Holiday Inn, call 407-351-3333 or 877-411-3436.
Wyndham Orlando Resort is located on International Drive and Sand Lake Road, about one mile from the Orange County Convention Center, two miles from Universal Studios, and three miles from SeaWorld. Accommodations feature two-story Floridian villas, with a separate living area for kids.
Hotel amenities include three swimming pools, jogging paths and a fitness center, game rooms, massage and spa services, on-site restaurants, and a complimentary shuttle service to Orlando attractions.
Pets up to 50 lbs. are welcome, with a maximum of two pets per room. There is a one-time fee of $50. For more information about the Wyndham, call 407-351-2420 or 877-411-3436.
Resources for Pet-Friendly Hotels and Resorts
When looking for pet-friendly hotels and resorts in Orlando or other tourist destinations, travelers may wish to consult AAA publication Traveling with Your Pet: The AAA PetBook or online sources such as PetsWelcome and DogFriendly. Because accommodations can change their pet policies, be sure to contact any lodgings for their current policies, rates and any fees before booking a reservation.