This is what a budget hotel should look like
The Dockside Inn and Suites is a fan favorite among Universal hotels in Orlando. It’s one of the most affordable options available, yet you still enjoy all the major perks, even while paying significantly less than at some of the pricier resorts. You’ll get early park admission and free transportation, with buses leaving every 15 minutes from Dockside Inn directly to Universal Orlando.
The best part? These perks come at a very reasonable price, typically ranging from $120 to $160 per night. With so many advantages and almost no drawbacks, it’s no wonder it has an impressive rating of 8.8 on Booking.com. The Dockside Inn is one of the best choices if you are on a budget and still want to enjoy everything that Universal Orlando has to offer
What we like about the Dockside Inn and Suites
This is THE basic (but cozy) resort at Universal Orlando. Don’t expect anything luxurious that will blow your mind, but the Dockside Inn has everything you need to enjoy a good vacation while still getting nice perks for some of your favorite theme parks. The rooms are clean, you have access to a swimming pool and free transportation to take you to Universal. Rooms are also very affordable, and sometimes you can even book a stay here for around $100.
You also have access to a restaurant called the Pier 8 Market. This is basically a fast food restaurant for those that want a quick lunch or dinner. Again, don’t expect anything out of this world, but that’s not the objective of this resort. You know what’s cool? They even have a Starbucks here, and there is nothing better than a warm cup of coffee in the morning before you can refuel your energies and head to the VelociCoaster.
There are also two pools at this resort. While they may not feature extravagant waterslides or cabanas, they get the job done. There’s even a poolside bar where you can grab a piña colada and relive those amazing moments after riding Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure. Like the rest of the resort, the pools offer good quality and excellent value for your money. The main pool is open from 9am to 11pm, which is actually a lot of time.
Rooms are also good. There are two options, with rooms for up to four guests and also two-bedroom suites for up to six guests. They are clean with comfortable beds, and some suites even have a kitchenette for those that want to bring their meals home. The good news is that these rooms also have a microwave, which is great news for some guests and those with small children.
Transportation operates smoothly, with buses departing one hour before Early Entry and running every 15 minutes until about 2am. The ride from the resort to Universal Orlando takes approximately 15 minutes. By staying here, you also enjoy Early Entry to Universal Orlando, allowing you to access the theme park one hour before it officially opens. Be sure to wake up early and board the bus as soon as you can!
What we don’t like about the Dockside Inn and Suites
There’s not much to dislike about this place, but, of course, there are a few drawbacks to a budget resort. The main issue is that it can get a bit noisy. The Dockside Inn is designed like a giant box, with multiple floors and rooms, making it easy to hear what’s happening in the hallways and in neighboring rooms. This is a common complaint at budget resorts, and it applies here as well.
This is just a minor complaint regarding the Dockside Inn and Suites. Overall, it’s still an amazing hotel, and you’ll pay half or less compared to many other resorts. The rooms are clean, and you’ll find a Starbucks, a restaurant, a nice pool, free transportation, and get the Early Entry perk.
You can’t ask for much more when you’re paying only about $150 per night.
Dockside Inn and Suites FAQ
How much is a room at the Dockside Inn and Suites?
Expect to pay around $120-$160 per night at the Dockside Inn and Suites.
Do I get Early Park Entry to Universal Orlando at the Dockside Inn and Suites?
Yes! You can enter Universal Orlando one hour before the theme parks officially open if you stay at the Dockside Inn and Suites.
Does the Dockside Inn and Suites offer free transportation to Universal Orlando?
Yes! The hotel provides a complimentary shuttle service to Universal Orlando. Buses depart every 15 minutes, and the ride typically takes about 15 minutes.
Is there a Starbucks at the Dockside Inn and Suites?
Yes! There’s a Starbucks at the hotel lobby.
Is there a restaurant at the Dockside Inn and Suites?
Yes! There is a simple quick service restaurant called Pier 8 at Dockside Inn and Suites.
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