As a self-proclaimed Disney lover, I definitely feel like staying at a Universal Orlando Resort hotel is like stepping into unfamiliar territory. Disney hotels are known for their detailed theming, magical touches, and integration into guests’ overall experience. Universal Orlando’s hotels offer their own unique blend of convenience, quality, and affordability. So, can a new Universal hotel win over a devoted Disney fan like me? I am going to find out next week when I head to Orlando for the opening of Universal Stella Nova Resort.
First, a little about this resort. There are actually two very similar-looking hotels in the works at Universal Orlando – they look identical to me, honestly – Stella Nova Resort (opening January 21, 2025) and Terra Luna Resort (opening Mar 25, 2025). Seeing them in the rendering above loosely gives me vibes of Disney’s Pop Century and Art of Animation Resorts, but it stops right there. I don’t see any theming on the outside of either of these buildings, and they don’t scream; this is where FUN happens to my inner child. Plus, I’m picturing the longest hallways ever with the shape of them.
Disney excels at creating immersive environments, and its resort hotels are no exception. From the savannas of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge to the retro charm of Disney’s Pop Century Resort, every detail feels like an extension of the magic. Step inside the Stella Nova Resort, and the registration area looks inviting, in a sterile, futuristic/outer space sort of way, but again, where are Universal’s characters to add some fun to this space? I might be more excited if there were some Dr. Suess friends or maybe even some Minions.
Many Disney fans feel that theming has been removed from its resort hotels over recent years, but I do love the tasteful way they add IP into their hotel rooms. Take the addition of The Incredibles in the Contemporary; I think the rooms are super cute, and that IP fits perfectly at that resort. Plus, it brings that extra bit of magic, reminding you that you are undoubtedly at Disney.
Looking at the photo below of one of the guest rooms, it feels as though it’s in a spaceship. Universal describes the rooms at Stella Nova as “luminous, ultramodern, and surreal” and that they “feature spaceship-styled windows – making this the ultimate escape for guests looking to rest amongst stars and planets.” I think outer space is pretty cool, but I’m a Disney fan – I’d be good with some Tomorrowland vibes for sure, but I’ll be honest, I’m not over the moon (tee hee…) about a hotel with a general space theme.
While Disney hotels are magical, they often have hefty price tags, especially for their deluxe resorts. Universal’s hotels often provide a more budget-friendly alternative without sacrificing quality. When Cabana Bay Beach Resort—another Universal value hotel—first opened, I was blown away by its incredible and adorable mid-century theming. I felt like I’d stepped into a scene from The Jetsons, which brought some nostalgia from my childhood Saturday morning cartoon watching. Universal Stella Nova Resort has an affordable price starting at $147 (per night, plus tax) based on a stay of four or more nights.
As a hardcore Disney fan, I must admit that undeniable nostalgia is tied to staying on Disney property. However, I keep reminding myself that trying something new can be exciting. Universal’s innovative offerings and new experiences might create a different type of magic—one rooted in adventure and discovery rather than nostalgia.
If this new Universal hotel lives up to its promises and delivers an exceptional guest experience, it just might win over even the most devoted Disney fans—myself included. Sometimes, a little step outside the comfort zone can lead to a whole new world of adventure.
