Universal’s Stella Nova Resort: The Perfect Gateway to Epic Universe at an Affordable Price

Universal Stella Nova Resort

The first of three new hotels near Universal Epic Universe, Universal Stella Nova Resort opened on January 21, 2025. With the park’s highly anticipated opening on May 22, 2025, Stella Nova offers guests a prime view of the action, with rooms starting at $147 per night. Along with its sister hotel, Universal Terra Luna Resort (opening March 25, 2025), it provides excellent value for those looking to be close to the new theme park. Guests can choose to walk or take a complimentary shuttle to Epic Universe.

Stella Nova, joining Universal Aventura Hotel in the “prime value” category, offers 750 guest rooms, each 315 square feet. These space-themed hotels, which sit across the street from each other, are decorated with 144,000 dichroic glass tiles that change colors based on light and perspective, mimicking the dazzling brilliance of a starry galaxy.

The resort’s entrance greets guests with a starry porte-cochère, leading into a retro-futuristic lobby inspired by celestial wonders. The gleaming white space features an arched ceiling, curved walls, and lighting that evokes shooting stars. Shades of teal, blue, and purple in the furniture and decor add a galactic glow. Throughout the hotel, including the lobby, dining, seating areas, and guest rooms, murals showcase stunning space images captured by NASA’s James Webb Telescope. Abstract light fixtures shaped like planets and star clusters add to the celestial ambiance.

Space-Age Comfort with Stunning Views

All 750 guest rooms at Universal Stella Nova Resort accommodate up to four guests with two queen beds, and adjoining rooms are available for larger families. Standard rooms feature rounded, spaceship-inspired windows that frame views of the nearly completed Epic Universe skyline, while pool-view rooms overlook the pool and Galaxy Bar.

The celestial theme, inspired by images from the James Webb Telescope, transforms the space, with colors shifting from deep purple to soft peach. Orange throw pillows, teal rugs, and sofas complete the cosmic aesthetic.

The split bathroom design includes a sink and vanity, separated from the sleeping and seating areas by a glass panel, with a curtain that can be drawn for extra privacy. The toilet and shower (or tub/shower combo) are in a separate enclosed area.

Typical amenities include a coffee maker, mini-refrigerator, iron and ironing board, hairdryer, flat-screen TV, and internet.

Having previously stayed at Universal Aventura Hotel, the other prime value option currently open at Universal Orlando, I found my room at Stella Nova to be a notable upgrade in terms of décor. I particularly appreciated the open feel offered by the glass room divider, compared to Aventura’s frosted version. While the rooms are similar in size, my Stella Nova room felt more spacious. However, Aventura does offer suites for larger families.

Poolside Relaxation and Stellar Amenities

Stella Nova’s prime location near Epic Universe makes it an ideal choice for park-goers. After a day of excitement, recharge with amenities like a nearly 10,000-square-foot pool, hot tub, fitness center, arcade, and recreation room. The Universal Studios Store in the lobby offers Epic Universe merchandise, along with essentials like toiletries and snacks.

Elevated Dining

Cosmos Cafe and Market serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. Enjoy grab-and-go options or dine-in with favorites like Croque Madame, Chicken & Waffles, and Creamy Tomato Soup & Grilled Cheese. Sides like Mexican Street Corn and Very Cheesy Mac & Cheese are highlights.

Stella Nova also features the Nova Bar, offering a social space for cocktails, with signature drinks like the smoky Supernova. Poolside, the Galaxy Grill serves dishes like Baja Fish Tacos and Bavarian Pretzels, while the Galaxy Bar offers frozen drinks and cocktails. For late-night cravings, room service is available from 5 p.m. to midnight.

Exclusive Perks for Universal Orlando Guests

Guests at Stella Nova Resort or any Universal Orlando hotel enjoy exclusive benefits, including Early Park Admission (up to one hour before opening) to Universal Volcano Bay and select attractions at Universal Studios Florida or Islands of Adventure (valid theme park admission required). Additional perks include complimentary shuttle service to the parks and CityWalk, resort-wide charging privileges, free merchandise delivery, and more.

For a full preview of what’s coming to Universal’s theme parks and resorts in 2025, check out our detailed 2025 guide.