Honest Review: Universal Stella Nova Resort at Universal Orlando
Photo: Universal Orlando
Universal Orlando Resort’s newest hotel, Universal Stella Nova Resort, officially opened January 21, 2025! Universal Stella Nova Resort is the first of three new hotels opening in 2025. Universal Terra Luna Resort opens March 25th, followed by Universal Helios Grand Hotel, which is set to open alongside the anticipated new theme park, Universal Epic Universe on May 22, 2025.
Overview of Universal Stella Nova Resort
The hotel's design is inspired by the vast and beautiful wonders of outer space, which you can see reflected throughout the property starting with the exterior. The facade of the hotel is covered by more than 140,000 colorful dichroic tiles that change color based on the lighting and time of day. 
The hues shift based on the light and viewing angle. It's more rainbow colors during the day, and then once it's dark out, the they take on darker blues and purples. There's also lights on the exterior of Stella Nova Resort that look almost like shooting stars.
Stella Nova Resort features curved architecture to give off a galactic experience with a space-like atmosphere. The porte-cochère at the entrance to me looks like a giant spaceship. Look up at the exterior overhang designed to look like a black hole. 
After entering the lobby, you'll see space-themed artwork provided by NASA! The cosmic space vibes continues throughout the hotel with the white, blue and purple color scheme. I LOVE the huge lighting fixtures that look like constellations. 
How Much Does it Cost to Stay at Universal Stella Nova Resort?
Rates start at $147 per night (plus tax), but note I could only find this rate if booking a stay of four nights or longer. On average, I have found rates averaging $200 per night for a one-night stay. If you want a pool-view room, you may have to pay roughly $10- $20 more for a pool view.The self parking free for overnight guests at Stella Nova Resort is $30 plus tax per vehicle per night.
Where is Universal Stella Nova Resort Located?
Stella Nova Resort is located adjacent to Universal Epic Universe. Stella Nova Resort is roughly three miles from Universal Orlando. it takes about 13-15 minutes via bus ride to get from Stella Nova Resort to Universal Orlando's CityWalk drop off area. Universal Stella Nova Resort is a 20ish minute drive to Orlando International Airport (MCO) Note— Universal Orlando offer a paid shuttle service called the SuperstarStar Shuttle.
Universal Stella Nova Resort Rooms
Stella Nova Resort has 750, 315-square-foot guest rooms. Standard Rooms overlook the backside of Universal Epic Universe. The Pool View Standard Room offers all the same amenities, with a view of the hotel's pool. 
Inside the rooms, the theming and color scheme almost identical to the hotel's lobby and dinning areas, with space-inspired art. I personally love the galaxy artwork above the beds. The rooms feel very modern. The curved furnishings and space window add to the galactic getaway feel.
The beds were actually pretty comfortable! I would consider them to be more on the firm side. The bedding is similar to Dockside and Surfside with a thin coverlet. One cool detail is that there is a QR code on the TV so you can scan to use your phone as a remote control. Don’t worry there’s also a regular remote, as well.
Each room has a good amount USB Ports and outlets for charging phones, fans, and laptops. 
The bathroom is split-style, with a sink and vanity in the center and a door that separates it from the toilet and tub. This is similar to other Universal Orlando Hotels. This split-style bathroom set up allows for privacy while making it easier for 2 people to get ready at the same time.
Bathrooms either have a walk-in shower or a shower/bathtub combo, so if you need a bathtub, be sure to request a room that has one when booking your stay. The walk-in showers have footrests for shaving your legs!The toiletry bath products had a really fresh + clean scent. The smell actually reminded of the Disney H20+ lotion and soaps.
Universal Stella Nova Resort Room Amenities
Two Queen bedsPack and Plays complimentary upon request (limited availability)Smart room technology for automated heating and air conditioningTwo-compartment, three-fixture bathroomBathrooms are either shower or shower and bathtub combo
55” flat-panel television with HD channels and on-demand in-room movies (fees apply)Coffee MakerMini refrigeratorIron and ironing boardIn-room safeHairdryerTelephone with voicemail systemComplimentary wireless internet access, or upgrade to premium Wi-Fi for $9.95 per day
You can also book one of several different types of accessible rooms. Mobility Accessible Standard Rooms are available with either an ADA tub (also available with a Pool View) or a roll-in shower and feature a handheld shower, toilet with grab bars and doors with 36-inch wide openings. Hearing Accessible Standard Rooms are equipped with a visual alarm and doorbell, a flashing light on the phone and an outlet near the phone for TTY access.Note there is NOT a microwave in any of the rooms.
Transportation at Universal Stella Nova Resort
Universal Stella Nova Resort offers complimentary shuttle bus transportation to the hub at Universal CityWalk for visiting Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure. There’s also an additional dedicated bus route that connects to Universal Volcano Bay.
If you are parking a car, overnight guest self-parking is $30 plus tax, per vehicle. Day guest self-parking is complimentary for zero to five minutes, $10 plus tax, per vehicle for five to 30 minutes and $65 plus tax per day, per vehicle for 30 minutes or more. Rates are subject to change without notice.
Universal Stella Nova Resort Proximity to Epic Universe
Universal Stella Nova Resort is located adjacent to the future theme park Universal Epic Universe — which will be accessible from the hotel via a walking path or complimentary shuttle.Universal Stella Nova Resort Amenities
Stella Nova Resort is in the Prime Value category, which gives guests with hotel options at an affordable price point while still offering some awesome amenities – which include Early Park Admission, shuttle bus transportation, Universal Studios Store gift shop, Vacation Planning Center, and Merchandise Delivery from Universal Orlando Resort.
There’s a state-of-the-art fitness center with cardio and strength equipment, as well as locker rooms with showers.In the game rooms, there’s a variety of arcade and video games for some indoor fun. There's also uggage Storage, a Recreation Room, and Laundromat available.
Universal Stella Nova Resort Pool
Stella Nova Resort has a 10,000 square-foot resort-style pool which features a hot tub, kids' splash pad area, walk-up bar, walk-up food service area, lounge and tabletop seating areas, outdoor games, outdoor firepit with surrounding seating and poolside movies.
Universal Stella Nova Resort Recreation
Universal Stella Nova Resort has a complimentary fitness center which features treadmills, bicycles (upright and recumbent), an elliptical machine, weight machines, a yoga area and free weights. Locker rooms with showers are available for use.
Dining Options at Universal Stella Nova Resort
At Cosmos Cafe and Market, you can grab quick-service sit down meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.Cosmos Cafe
Cosmos Market
The Cosmos Marketplace serves ready-to-go snacks, salads, sandwiches, baked goods, and serves a small variety of Starbucks drinks. My favorite item from the Cosmos Marketplace was the Stella Cookie, the hotel’s signature cookie, which is a slightly warm, chocolate cookie with pink M&Ms.
Nova Bar
The Nova Bar inside the lobby offers a great selection of signature spaced themed cocktails.
While enjoying the pool at Stella Nova Resort, Galaxy Bar and Galaxy Grill serve fish tacos, quesadillas, burgers, salads, and adult beverages at this walk-up service bar and grill.Galaxy Bar
Galaxy Grill
What I Love about Universal Stella Nova Resort
The Stella Nova Resort is perfect for those who want a hotel within walking distance of Epic Universe and are looking to save the most money. The pathway connecting Stella Nova Resort to Epic Universe. Once finished, will take about 10 minutes to walk to the main E;ic Universe gates. This walking path to Epic Universe is the hotel’s biggest perk, as it provides the ultimate convenience.Stella Nova is an affordable Prime Value hotel that offers all the nice amenities you’d expect from a Universal Hotel. Rooms for one night start at $189, which is priced reasonably. Think similar pricing to Aventura Hotel. Having Early Park Admission (one-hour early entry to select theme parks) is clutch when trying to make the most out of your theme park days. There’s the complimentary shuttle bus to and from Universal CityWalk. The Shuttle from Universal CityWalk to Stella Nova takes approximately 13-15 minutes. Stella Nova Resort guests also have and the option to have merchandise purchased at Universal Orlando or Universal CityWalk delivered directly to your hotel.This is a hotel designed for convenience above the glitz and glamour treatment. Design wise, it’s a great hotel choice for those warning modern rooms and a hassle-free way to go to and from Universal Epic Universe starting this May.The Universal Studios Store at the hotel entrance is, currently, the only place to purchase some of the new (and exclusive) Epic Universe merchandise.
What I’m Personally Not a Fan of at Universal Stella Nova Resort
With there only being the double queen room type, there are no suites or family rooms for more than four guests. So, if you’re traveling with a family or group of five or more, you may need to book two rooms and ask for them to be connectingOverall Thoughts on Stella Nova Resort
Would I stay at Stella Nova Resort again? 100% yes..Stella Nova Resort is the perfect hotel option for those wanting modern rooms, and is a great choice for those planning a vacation to Universal Orlando, particularly if experiencing Epic Universe when it opens. For the price, Stella Nova Resort provides value for comfort, amenities, and proximity to Epic Universe.When comparing Stella Nova to the other Universal Orlando hotels, Stella Nova is a Space themed Aventura with Endless Summer vibes and amenities.
Universal Stella Nova Resort FAQ
Is Universal Stella Nova Resort within walking distance to Epic Universe?
Yes! There is a walking path that connects Universal Stella Nova Resort to Epic Universe, and it takes about 10 minutes to walk to the main gates.Is Universal Stella Nova Resort within walking distance to Universal CityWalk?
No, it is not, but Universal Orlando Resort provides complimentary shuttles that can take you to Universal CityWalk.How much is a room at Universal Stella Nova Resort?
Room prices vary depending on the time of year and date, but they start at roughly $188 per night.Does Universal Stella Nova Resort have a pool slide?
No, Stella Nova Resort just has a zero entry heated pool, hot tub, and splash pad area for children.Are there any restaurants inside Universal Stella Nova Resort?
Yes! Stella Nova Resort has a quick-service restaurant called Cosmos Cafe and Market. There’s also the Galaxy Bar and Galaxy Grill near the pool. In the Lobby, you’ll find the Nova Bar for those looking for a spaced themed drink.
NOTE
Universal Orlando gave me the opportunity to attend the media preview tour prior to Stella Nova Resort being officially open. I purchased a two-night stay so that I could get my own inside look at the hotel, what it was like staying there and its amenities. All of the opinions expressed above are entirely my own.You can now book vacation packages or reservation at Stella Nova Resort and Terra Luna Resort. To learn more, head to Universal Orlando’s website www.UniversalOrlando.com/StellaTerraResorts.