Time to Enter a New Galaxy That Brings Us Closer to Epic Universe
Epic Universe is coming! I’m counting down the days, and we’re just under four months away from exploring lands like Super Nintendo World and the Isle of Berk.
Before that? We have the chance to experience what Universal has in store for us in 2025, starting with a brand-new hotel located near Epic Universe. Of course, we’re talking about the Stella Nova Resort, which debuted just a few days ago and marks the beginning of a new era for Universal.
This is the first of three new hotels set to debut in 2025 alone. Yep, that’s a lot! Terra Luna Resort opens in March, followed by the Helios Grand Hotel, which is set to open alongside the highly anticipated Epic Universe on May 22. We can all agree that Universal will need a lot of new rooms for all the new guests flooding Florida in the coming months.
What we like about Universal Stella Nova Resort
Stella Nova is a new Prime Value hotel that offers all the great amenities you’d expect from Universal. Guests enjoy a one-hour early entry to select theme parks, complimentary bus service to the parks, and the option to have merchandise purchased at the parks or Universal CityWalk delivered directly to their hotel.
The Stella Nova Resort is perfect for those who want a hotel within walking distance of Epic Universe and are looking to save some money. Rooms start at $215, which is reasonably priced and places it in a similar range to the Aventura Hotel.
However, don’t expect tons of luxury at the Stella Nova Resort. This is a hotel designed for convenience above all else. While it features arcades and a large swimming pool, it’s primarily a great choice for those seeking modern rooms and a quick, hassle-free way to get to Epic Universe this May.
One of the best things about this resort is easy to spot: it’s brand new. In fact, at the time of this review, it’s only a few days old. This means fresh rooms, updated amenities, and modernized lobbies. There’s something uniquely cozy and exciting about staying in a brand-new place, from the new air conditioner to the pillow on your bed.
The second-best feature isn’t ready yet, but it will be soon: a pathway connecting the Stella Nova Resort to Epic Universe. Once completed, it will take about 10-15 minutes to walk to the main gates. This walking path to Epic Universe is one of the hotel’s biggest perks, as it provides a convenience that other Universal hotels, like Aventura and Sapphire Falls, don’t offer. There’s also a free bus service to Universal CityWalk, which takes approximately 13 minutes.
So, what about the rooms? Honestly, don’t expect much. As mentioned earlier, the Stella Nova Resort is all about convenience. All 750 rooms are 315 sq. ft. and come in just two types: standard rooms and pool-view rooms, both available with Mobility and Hearing Accessible options. Some rooms feature bathtubs, while others come with stand-up showers. If you’re traveling with a family and have a toddler, it’s a good idea to request a room with a bathtub at reception.
Each room includes a flat-panel TV, a coffee maker, a mini refrigerator, and plenty of outlets and USB ports for charging laptops and phones. They do not have a microwave in any of the rooms. The design is inspired by a space station, featuring wallpapers that resemble distant stars and windows styled to look like portholes to outer space. It’s a fun touch, but nothing luxurious.
For the price, we think the rooms are decent. They are slightly more expensive than usual - after all, this is a brand-new hotel located next to Epic Universe - but we expect prices to drop over the next year and through 2027. Currently, the cheapest rooms start at around $215, though you could have booked one for as low as $160 before the hotel officially opened.
There are also some fun amenities, like a large pool with splash areas, an arcade, and the Cosmos Cafe, which offers quick-service meals. While none of these are particularly special, they can be convenient if you want a quick bite before heading to the park or need a burger after spending ten hours straight at Epic Universe.
What we don’t like about Universal Stella Nova Resort
This hotel is all about convenience, not luxury, and it doesn’t offer many room options. As mentioned earlier, all the rooms are essentially the same - there are no suites or family rooms for more than four guests. So, if you’re traveling with a group of five or more, you might run into issues.
Being a large hotel with plenty of rooms, some noise is to be expected. During the first week, some guests reported hearing doors slamming and kids running in the hallways. This is typical for a hotel like this, especially one that’s brand new and likely to get even busier as the months go on. If peace and quiet are your top priorities, this might not be the best choice for you.
Universal Stella Nova Resort FAQ
When did the Universal Stella Nova Resort launch?
The Universal Stella Nova Resort opened its doors on January 21, 2025.
Is the Universal Stella Nova Resort within walking distance to Epic Universe?
Yes! A pathway connects the Universal Stella Nova Resort to Epic Universe, and it takes about 10-15 minutes to walk to the main gates.
Is the Universal Stella Nova Resort within walking distance to Universal CityWalk?
No, it is not, but the resort provides free shuttles that can take you to Universal CityWalk.
How much is a room at the Universal Stella Nova Resort?
Room prices vary depending on the date, but they start at $215 per night in 2025.
Is there a restaurant inside the Universal Stella Nova Resort?
Yes! The resort features a quick-service restaurant called Cosmos Cafe and Market. There are also the Galaxy Bar and Galaxy Grill stations near the pool, plus the Nova Bar in the lobby for those looking for a special drink.
Does the Universal Stella Nova Resort have a waterpark?
No, while the resort has a pool and splash areas, it does not have a waterpark.
What’s the main difference between Terra Luna Resort and Stella Nova Resort?
Honestly, there is nothing major that differentiates them. Both hotels share the same price points and room types, have their own pools, and offer a walkable path to Epic Universe. They each have their own bars and quick-service restaurants, but the only difference is the name, as they offer the same types of food as well.
