Things are getting EPIC in Orlando.

©Universal

Next year is scheduled to see the opening of the Universal Orlando Resort’s newest theme park — Epic Universe  — as well as three brand-new on-property hotels. Recently, we got a closer look at the new expansion’s massive flagship accommodations.

The currently under-construction Universal Helios Grand Hotel is going to tower above Epic Universe, acting as the backdrop for the theme park’s central Celestial Park land. Universal describes the hotel as a “sunlit sanctuary, where light, life and laughter abound” and a “majestic escape, where relaxation comes naturally. Beautiful details of celestial patterns and constellations adorn the hotel with a casual, elegant Mediterranean-inspired feel throughout.”

Recently, theme park photographer extraordinaire Bioreconstrcut posted a stunning image of the resort to their X (formerly Twitter) account, showing just how close to completion the resort is…

Helios Grand Hotel in peak glow of sunrise. At #EpicUniverse pic.twitter.com/TBa2qhX4N6

— bioreconstruct (@bioreconstruct) September 22, 2024

… and just how closely it resembles the concept art that Universal aficionados have been drooling over for years.

©Universal

Upon opening, the Helios Grand will be part of Universal’s highest hotel tier, and offer amenities including:

• A dedicated entrance to Epic Universe for hotel guests only.
• Bar Helios: A rooftop bar that will specialize in Mediterranean fare including salads, lamb and chicken gyros, tapas, antipasti, and “sunny-type cocktails” including spritzes, bellinis, martinis, and negronis.
• Flora Taverna: A full-service restaurant featuring a hybrid of Greek/Italian style of cooking and dining, including fish, seafood, lamb, roasted chicken and steaks.
• Lotus Lagoon: A casual poolside bar and restaurant.
• Aurora Market: A grab-and-go market featuring freshly roasted coffee, paninis, wraps, and salads.
• Bus transportation to Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure, Universal Volcano Bay and Universal CityWalk.
• A massive swimming pool.

©Universal

One massive perk will be MISSING from the hotel, however. Despite having been long-included in stays at Universal’s other Premier-level hotels: The Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, the Loews Royal Pacific Resort, and the Hard Rock Hotel, the Helios Grand will NOT include Universal Express Pass, Universal’s paid skip the line program.

©Universal Studios

In response to comments inquiring about Express Pass availability at the hotel, a Universal rep responded, “While Universal Helios Grand Hotel will not include Universal Express Unlimited, Guests can take advantage of other incredible exclusive theme park benefits – including Early Park Admission to enjoy select attractions at the theme parks – which will expand to include Universal Epic Universe with the park’s opening in 2025 – up to one hour before the park opens with valid theme park admission; complimentary shuttle bus transportation to the theme parks and Universal CityWalk; resort-wide charging privileges; complimentary merchandise delivery and more. Guests of Universal Helios Grand Hotel will also enjoy a dedicated entrance to Epic Universe.”

It remains to be seen whether the lack of Express Pass availability at the Helios Grand is temporary, or a sign that Universal is potentially changing their approach to their skip-the-line program with the opening of Epic Universe.

©Universal

While the Helios Grand will lack Express Pass, the new hotel does promise a slew of other amenities and an excellent IN-PARK location, which will likely immediately make it Universal’s flagship hotel when it opens in 2025. Stay tuned to DFB for more on Epic Universe, and news on when Helios Grand reservations will open.

Celestial Park at Epic Universe Will Have A Nighttime Show; And We’ve Got Details!

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What do you think of the Helios Grand? Would you consider staying there? Let us know in the comments below.