Universal Helios Grand Hotel: Rooms, Park Access & Express Pass

Updated October 13, 2026.

Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel, is open at Universal Epic Universe. Its dedicated park entrance and views make it worth comparing for an Epic Universe-focused vacation. One important budget point: a Helios Grand stay does not include Universal Express Unlimited.

Does Helios Grand include Epic Universe admission?

No. You need valid theme park admission to use the dedicated entrance. A hotel reservation provides access to the hotel’s benefits, not a ticket into the park.

Guests receive Early Park Admission to select attractions at participating parks on eligible dates, with valid admission and hotel verification. Check the schedule for your stay; it is not early access to every ride.

Does Helios Grand include Express Pass?

No. Do not assume every Signature Collection hotel includes the same Express benefit. Loews Royal Pacific Resort, Hard Rock Hotel and Loews Portofino Bay Hotel include Universal Express Unlimited for participating attractions at Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure. That hotel benefit does not include Epic Universe.

If Express access is a priority, compare the hotel price plus any separately purchased passes for your actual dates. Our Universal Orlando Planning Guide explains the differences between park admission, Express and hotel benefits.

Which Helios Grand room should you choose?

The hotel has 500 rooms, including suites. Categories include standard, pool, skyline and theme-park views, plus Club Level options and themed kids’ suites. Not every room overlooks Epic Universe.

Room capacity varies: the current standard two-queen listing allows up to five guests, while a standard king allows up to three. Confirm bedding, any extra-bed charge and the exact maximum for the category you book. Suites do not all have the same capacity.

For children who love How to Train Your Dragon, compare the themed kids’ suite with a standard room. Consider the sleeping layout as well as the décor. A park-facing room is not a promise of fireworks or quiet conditions.

What dining is available?

• Flora Taverna: a restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, with Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
• Aurora Market: coffee and grab-and-go food.
• Lotus Lagoon: poolside food and drinks.
• Bar Helios: a rooftop lounge with small plates and views.

Check current menus, hours and reservation arrangements before planning a meal around a venue.

How do you reach the other Universal parks?

The hotel offers complimentary transportation to Universal’s parks and CityWalk. Epic Universe is separate from the Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure area, so allow travel time between them. The dedicated hotel entrance is useful for Epic Universe visits, not a shortcut into every Universal park.

Is Helios Grand worth the cost?

It may suit a family prioritizing Epic Universe access, the hotel’s atmosphere and a particular room view. A different hotel may fit better if most of your days are at the original two parks or if included Express Unlimited is the main reason you are paying more.

Ask for a comparison using the same party, dates, tickets and desired Express access. Include parking or other applicable charges when comparing the total.

Hotel references: Loews’ room-category details and hotel benefit terms.