With the highly anticipated opening of Epic Universe just around the corner, Universal Orlando is rolling out new policies for its brand-new on-site resort, the Helios Grand Hotel.
This luxury property is more than just a place to stay—it’s an extension of the theme park experience, complete with its own exclusive entrance into Epic Universe. But with great access comes strict limitations, and parking at Helios Grand is about to become one of the resort’s most talked-about features.
Set to open on May 22, 2025—the same day Epic Universe opens its gates—Helios Grand Hotel is expected to attract theme park fans and luxury travelers alike. Operated by Loews, the hotel offers immersive views of the new theme park and a seamless connection via a private entrance. For those staying at the hotel, this means bypassing the main gates entirely and enjoying early access to the park from a dedicated entry point.
However, as this unique benefit has generated buzz online, many have started to wonder: Can non-hotel guests use this entrance? Can they park at Helios and walk into Epic Universe from there? Universal’s answer: not without significant cost.
Parking Breakdown
Universal has confirmed that parking at Helios Grand Hotel will be permitted for both overnight and day guests—but the cost and structure are very different for each group.
Overnight Guests: Those with reservations at the hotel can expect familiar pricing in line with other Universal Signature resorts. Self-parking is available at $36 per night plus tax, while valet service is offered at $45 per night plus tax. These rates match those found at properties like the Hard Rock Hotel or Loews Portofino Bay.
Day Guests: Parking for those visiting the hotel without an overnight stay is still allowed, but the pricing is significantly higher—likely in an effort to discourage casual use of the lot for park access. Here’s the breakdown:
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0–5 minutes: Free
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5–30 minutes: $10 plus tax
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30+ minutes (self-parking): $50 plus tax per day
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Valet parking: $128 plus tax per day
These rates are steeper than those at other Universal properties, and that’s by design. The intention is to preserve availability and ensure that the 500-room hotel has adequate parking for its registered guests, especially as demand surges during the park’s grand opening period.
Why the High Cost?
The elevated pricing serves several purposes. First, it deters non-guests from using the hotel as a shortcut into Epic Universe. With a private entrance available only to those holding valid park tickets and staying at the hotel, the exclusivity is part of what guests are paying for. Universal wants to make sure that the benefits remain limited to those it’s intended for.
Second, the hotel has a finite number of parking spaces. If day guests were allowed to park freely, overnight guests might find it difficult to secure spots, compromising the overall guest experience.
Lastly, by attaching a high cost to day parking, Universal is likely trying to maintain a premium atmosphere around its flagship resort. Helios Grand is positioned as a high-end offering, and that philosophy extends to all aspects of the guest experience—including parking.
Looking Ahead
As we move closer to the Epic Universe debut, all eyes will be on how Universal handles crowds, traffic, and the overall flow of guests through its new resort. Parking restrictions at Helios Grand might feel extreme to some, but they are part of a larger plan to keep the experience streamlined and stress-free for those staying on the property.
If you’re planning to visit Epic Universe and are considering staying off-site, this policy could affect your strategy. Guests hoping to beat the morning rush may find the premium for a room at Helios worth the price simply for that dedicated entrance and park proximity.
Universal has made it clear: Helios Grand Hotel is for hotel guests first. And when the gates of Epic Universe swing open, the extra convenience of staying steps from the action will come at a premium—both in terms of room rates and where you can park your car.
