One of the perks of living in Orlando is I have some really cool places in my own backyard. If I need a little break, I can stay in Orlando and have the staycation of my dreams. Universal Orlando is definitely a go-to when I need a breather.

I was lucky enough to be invited to stay at one of Universal Loews’ hotels, Aventura, and boy did I fall in love! Not only is Aventura affordable (cause let’s face it, theme park vacations can be pricey) but it’s also a great place to hang out and relax.

The hotel offers many amenities which is great when you’re trying to take a break from the theme park crowds and the grueling Florida heat. From a stellar “food court”, to a relaxing pool, to their breath taking roof bar, there’s something for everyone at Aventura.

I want to share some of my favorite parts of the hotel.

The State of the Art Room

First off, can we talk about this view? The view was one of my favorite parts of my room. Every morning I got to wake up and see Volcano Bay which was super cool. It made me feel like I was in a far away land, not in Orlando.

The room had this cool iPad that basically controlled the room itself. You could turn off the lights, control the TV, order pizza

… and check out all from the iPad!

I have an Instagram highlight that showcases how the iPad works so check it out here.

Check in was a breeze and I had fresh fruit waiting for me in my room 🙂

Did I mention there’s a Starbucks in the lobby? YEEESSS.

Pizza ordered from the iPad, which my husband and I LOVED… we may have ordered this more than once… 😉

Food Options Galore!

One thing that super impressed me were the food options that were available downstairs in the “Urban Pantry”. Upon check in, you can spot the different food options. Even the pickiest of eaters will find something to their liking. My husband and I fell in love with their pizza. They have everything from sushi, to burgers, to pizza to rotisserie chicken. And like mentioned above, there’s a Starbucks so you can get your caffeine fix before heading the parks (or maybe you need it afterwards!)

Awesome Amenities

When we weren’t exploring Islands of Adventure or Universal Studios, we spent a lot of time at the hotel itself because it had some stellar amenities. The pool area was to die for. It also had a pretty cool bar area as well.

Great fire you can relax at with friends/family 🙂

If you’re someone that still likes to get a work out in even on vacation, Aventura had one of the best hotel gyms I’ve ever seen.

A Rooftop Bar that will BLOW YOU AWAY

The rooftop bar at Aventura is a real show stopper and reason enough for you stop by. It has one of the most beautiful views of Orlando you can get. Not only is the view to die for, the drinks and food are on point!

Early Access to the Parks and Shuttle Service

One MAJOR perk for me is getting an HOUR early access to the parks PLUS there’s a shuttle service that runs every 30-40 minutes. Early access means little lines and more ride time. And that shuttle service means you avoid the chaos that is theme park parking. A win-win in my book!

You can check out the hotel here. Prices are pretty good for everything you get. The hotel is clean, the staff is amazing and friendly and there’s tons to check out AT the hotel. It’s sleek and simplistic, modern and relaxing.

I’m planning my next staycation here, probably around spring break (teacher life!)

I’ll have a post up with tips and tricks on planning a Universal trip as well so check that out!

** Disclaimer: This post is NOT paid for however I was invited to stay and check out the hotel. This does NOT effect my review whatsoever though. My opinions are 100% my own and are honest. I’ll be back because it’s that good 🙂