
Universal Orlando is pulling back the curtain on its newest resort hotel, the Universal Stella Nova Resort, marking the first official location to open within the Epic Universe development.
A First Look at Universal Orlando’s Newest Hotel
With a sleek design inspired by the cosmos and modern amenities for guests of all types, this new hotel is not only set to enhance the guest experience at Universal but also positions the company as a major contender against Disney World, especially with the upcoming Epic Universe theme park set to open in May.
Universal Stella Nova Resort is now open! Make this new hotel your launchpad and landing zone for exciting adventures at Universal’s theme parks.
Universal Stella Nova Resort is now open! Make this new hotel your launchpad and landing zone for exciting adventures at Universal’s theme parks.
Book Now: https://t.co/KDtadeR2v3 pic.twitter.com/ubXsDRz5Bo
— Universal Orlando Resort (@UniversalORL) January 21, 2025
The Stella Nova Resort, which officially opens this week, is the first of three new hotels to debut in Universal’s expanding Epic Universe resort area. This is part of a broader effort by Universal to introduce 11 hotels with over 11,000 rooms by the summer of 2025, providing a variety of options for visitors with different budgets and tastes.
What sets the Stella Nova Resort apart from other hotels in Universal’s portfolio is its unique design and space-themed experience. Drawing inspiration from celestial wonders, the hotel is a stunning visual spectacle, with vibrant teals, purples, and stars filling the lobby, while NASA-supplied space images further immerse guests into the theme.

The exterior features over 140,000 stainless steel tiles that shift colors depending on the lighting and viewing angle, giving the building a dynamic, ever-changing look. Russ Dagon, SVP of Resort Development at Universal Creative, even joked that the hotel’s massive tiles make it one of the largest stainless steel structures globally.
Affordable Luxury with Modern Amenities
For guests looking to experience Universal’s new resort without breaking the bank, the Stella Nova Resort is a prime option. As a Prime Value hotel, the resort offers a great balance of affordability and quality, offering features like Early Park Admission, complimentary transportation to the theme parks, resort-wide charging privileges, and a host of other perks that make it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers.
Each of the 750 rooms measures 315 square feet and is equipped with double-queen beds, spaceship-style windows, and amenities such as a flat-panel TV, mini refrigerator, and ample outlets for charging. Guests also enjoy Cosmic Ember branded toiletries, a subtle touch that ties in the resort’s celestial theme.
Despite being positioned as a lower-tier hotel, Stella Nova offers ample amenities and is designed to provide guests with an unforgettable stay. The hotel features a massive 10,000-square-foot pool, a kiddie splash pad, a hot tub, a fitness center, and a game room.
Visitors can also enjoy dining options such as Cosmos Cafe and Market and Galaxy Bar, which offer everything from quick-service meals to specialty cocktails. There’s even a dedicated Universal Studios Store for Epic Universe merchandise.
Why Stella Nova is Universal’s Secret Weapon Against Disney World
With Disney World dominating the theme park scene for decades, Universal’s bold moves in the coming months will make it a serious player in the theme park and resort industry. The opening of Stella Nova Resort is a precursor to the grand opening of Epic Universe, which will introduce even more immersive experiences, themed lands, and attractions.
The fact that Universal is already opening hotels in the Epic Universe area before the theme park even opens is a strategic move. The resort will cater to guests who want to stay near the park and experience the magic of Universal before the grand unveiling in May.
Universal’s plan to offer a variety of hotel options, from value to luxury, gives them a competitive edge against Disney, especially as they push to expand their resort offerings.
One key factor in Universal’s strategy is its commitment to affordable luxury, something that Disney often falls short of when compared to Universal’s value-driven offerings. With the growing popularity of Epic Universe and the new resort hotels, Universal is proving that it can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Disney World in both scale and ambition.
What’s Next for Epic Universe at Universal?
As the Stella Nova Resort officially opens its doors, it marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Universal Orlando. Terra Luna Resort, the second hotel in the Epic Universe area, is set to open in March, further boosting Universal’s appeal for a variety of visitors.
While Universal Orlando continues to expand its footprint with new hotels and attractions, the opening of Epic Universe later this year is sure to solidify Universal as a force to be reckoned with against Disney World, especially for guests seeking a unique, affordable, and exciting experience.
For more information or to book a stay at the new Stella Nova Resort, visit Universal Orlando Resort’s official website.