Disney found out years ago, that if you can keep guests on property in Disney owned hotels, you make more money from those guests in the long run. A great hotel experience builds brand loyalty as it extends the magic envelope beyond the parks. Universal was late to get into this game, but now that the parks are attracting more visitors (thanks in large part to Harry Potter), the Orlando Resort is working fast to catch up.
The resort has just announced its sixth hotel – the 600 room Aventura Hotel. The 16-story gleaming glass tower is designed with the connected and value-savvy traveler in mind. Bookings will open in 2017 for a 2018 opening date.
The hotel will feature the destination’s first-ever rooftop bar and grill, where guests will enjoy small plates and craft cocktails while taking in incredible panoramic views of Universal Orlando and the surrounding tropical landscape. Hotel guests can also dine at a modern food hall offering five unique cuisine options in a marketplace setting just off the lobby. Amenities exclusive to guests staying on-site will include Early Park Admission to Universal’s theme parks, complimentary on-site transportation, a relaxing pool with a hot tub, kids’ splash pad area and fire pit, a state-of-the-art fitness center, gift shop and car rental facilities.
Universal’s other on-site resort hotels include: Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, the Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Royal Pacific Resort, Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort and the all-new Loews Sapphire Falls Resort. With Volcano Bay opening in 2017, they can definitely use the hotel capacity. The new hotel, plus phase two of Cabana Bay, will bring the total number of rooms to 6,200 at the resort.
The gleaming tower is reminiscent of those new hotels in Las Vegas. I’m not thrilled about it, but it’s not atrocious either. What do you think of the look?
Although it hasn’t yet been announced, I would not be surprised if the next hotel from Universal doesn’t include something similar to the Disney Vacation Club.