The hype
Travelers love the walkability to Universal but consistently complain about the aging elevators and street noise.
Doubletree By Hilton At The Entrance To Universal
$150-250/ night
Book this if You want the absolute closest walk to Universal Studios without paying on-site Premier prices.
Why People Love It
- Literal 15-minute walk to Universal CityWalk via the pedestrian bridge
- Warm DoubleTree chocolate chip cookie at check-in (it never gets old)
- Parlor Suites offer massive value for families needing separation from the kids
Quick Take: A high-traffic convention hotel that trades luxury for unbeatable logistics and a killer location.
Reviewed by @kenzoandben: I stayed in a suite here and the space was incredible. Waking up to those floor-to-ceiling city views was a highlight. The warm cookie at check-in is a total game changer, and being steps from Icon Park made our evenings so fun. Highly recommend for a chill Orlando trip.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
You aren't booking this for the 'resort vibe'—you're booking it to sleep, shower, and sprint to the parks.
- You refuse to pay $500+ for a Hard Rock/Portofino room but still want to walk to the parks
- You are a Hilton Honors member chasing points and status perks
- You need a 'Parlor Suite' to stash the kids in a separate area
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Daily service is generally reliable, though they can be aggressive with early knocks.
- Bathroom hygiene: Bathrooms are clean but dated—expect some worn grout and older tub fixtures.
- Maintenance: The weak link. Broken elevators and peeling wallpaper are common complaints.
- Linens & towels: Standard Hilton quality—crisp, white, and usually fresh.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells great; some older rooms have a faint 'musty AC' smell.
Sleepability™
6.5MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Street racing/traffic on Major Blvd and Kirkman Rd
- Hallway noise due to large gaps under doors
- Thin connecting room doors
Before you book
Good to know
- The walk to Universal involves a pedestrian bridge over a major road—it's safe but takes ~15-20 mins.
- There is NO free breakfast unless you have Hilton Gold/Diamond status (and even then, it's a credit).
- Pet fee is a steep $75 non-refundable charge.
What to pack
- White noise machine or heavy-duty earplugs (mandatory)
- Good walking shoes (the walk to the park adds up)
- Refillable water bottles (water stations are available in the lobby)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Parlor Suite (often cheaper than 2 rooms, gives you a living room + murphy bed)
- High floor, Pool View (South Tower) to minimize highway noise
Rooms to avoid
- North Tower low floors facing Kirkman Road (traffic noise is relentless)
- Rooms near the elevator bank (noisy and high foot traffic)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am a light sleeper and would appreciate a room in the South Tower, high floor, facing the pool/Universal to avoid street noise. Please ensure it is not a connecting room if possible.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there a resort fee?
No explicit 'resort fee,' but the $33/night self-parking fee functions like one.
Can I really walk to Universal?
Yes. It's about 0.7 miles to CityWalk. You cross Major Blvd, take the pedestrian bridge over Kirkman, and you're there.
Is the pool heated?
Yes, the large outdoor pool is heated, but don't expect a tropical oasis—it's functional.
Do they offer a shuttle?
Yes, a free shuttle runs to Universal, but it has a limited schedule. Walking is usually faster.
Is breakfast included?
No. The 'Sunshine Cafe' buffet is pricey (~$20-30/person). Grab coffee at the on-site Starbucks instead.
What is the parking situation?
Gated garage. Self-park is $33/night; Valet is $41/night. Your room key opens the gate.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'Double Locos' food truck on-site is often better (and faster) than the sit-down hotel restaurant.
- ✨
Walk to the 'Market Plaza' nearby for cheaper supplies—there's a TGI Fridays and Ale House, but also a Walgreens for water/snacks.
- ✨
If the main elevators are jammed, look for the service/freight elevator or take the stairs if you're on a lower floor.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'Universal View' rooms mostly view a parking lot with the park in the distance.
💡The elevators can take 10+ minutes during peak morning (8-9 AM) and park closing times.
💡Housekeeping has a habit of knocking early (9 AM) even if you haven't checked out.
💡The AC units are motion-sensor controlled and can shut off while you sleep (override this if you can).
💡The lobby scent is distinct—a mix of signature DoubleTree perfume and chlorine from the nearby pool.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Doubletree By Hilton At The Entrance To Universal is located and what's nearby.