Loews Hotels & Co in partnership with Universal Orlando has opened the 500-room Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel located adjacent to the new Universal Epic Universe theme park. The hotel is the latest addition to the Orlando resort’s Signature Collection and is part of a multi-property expansion that includes Universal Stella Nova Resort and Universal Terra Luna Resort which opened earlier in the year.
The Helios Grand Hotel brings the total count to 11 Universal Orlando hotels operated by Loews representing over 11,000 guest rooms. The property includes guest access to a dedicated entrance to Epic Universe, Early Park Admission with valid ticket, a rooftop bar with views of the park and resort-style amenities.
“Today marks another major milestone for Loews Hotels & Co as we celebrate the growth and evolution of our partnership with Comcast NBC Universal with the opening of our 11th hotel on the ever-expanding Universal Orlando campus,” said Alex Tisch, president and CEO, Loews Hotels & Co.
“Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel will be a one-of-kind hotel not just because of its proximity to Epic Universe but also due to the unique guest experience value proposition that when coupled with Loews’ service excellence will continue creating exceptional experiences for guests, team members and neighbors.”
The hotel’s guest rooms are designed with views of Epic Universe and include suites ranging from Presidential and Celestial to How to Train Your Dragon Kids’ Suites.
Dining venues include Bar Helios, a rooftop lounge serving tapas and cocktails; Flora Taverna, a full-service restaurant with a lobby bar; Lotus Lagoon, a poolside bar and grill; Aurora Market, a café and market; and an indoor rooftop event space for private functions.
Interior elements throughout the hotel incorporate imagery linked to solar and lunar themes. Arches in the lobby represent a rising sun turning into a setting moon. Elevator landings feature projection mapping with rotating visuals depending on the time of day. The Court of the Sun terrace includes waterfalls and a statue of Apollo.
Loews and Universal Orlando have maintained a joint venture for over 25 years. The debut of Helios Grand Hotel follows the strategic pattern of soft-brand and co-branded hotel developments aligning themed guest experiences with operational hotel platforms.
Located near the Epic Universe park the hotel expands the resort’s footprint and integrates into Universal’s entertainment and tourism infrastructure.
