Guests staying at Universal Orlando Resort hotels this summer have even more to look forward to thanks to a lineup of limited-time experiences available now through August 10.
The most eye-catching additions are the themed sand sculptures featured in the lobby of each of Universal’s 11 hotels. Built using between 600 and 1,200 pounds of sand, the sculptures showcase fan-favorite franchises including How to Train Your Dragon, Jaws, Ghostbusters, Back to the Future, E.T., Shrek, Trolls, Kung Fu Panda, and Dark Universe.
It’s a fun touch that makes each hotel feel a little more unique, and honestly gives guests another reason to explore the different resorts even if they’re not staying there.
Several hotels are also offering exclusive summer food and drinks, from refreshing cocktails to fun seasonal snacks like funnel cake sticks at Cabana Bay. On Saturday evenings, select Loews hotels will host poolside parties with live DJs, games, and giveaways.
Universal has also added a new hotel guest perk this summer: exclusive character meet and greets at Universal Studios Florida every Saturday and Sunday from 2 to 4 p.m., joining existing benefits like Early Park Admission and complimentary transportation.
These offerings complement everything happening across the resort this summer, including Mega Movie Parade, CineSational, Hogwarts Always, and the expanded schedule for Volcano Bay Nights.
One thing Universal has really leaned into over the past few years is making the hotels feel like part of the vacation instead of just a place to sleep. Whether it’s themed lobbies, great pools, or now these limited-time summer experiences, it’s worth carving out some time to enjoy the resort before or after heading to the parks.

Barry joined Thrillgeek in 2016. He has been a journalist for over 20 years. He is one of the co-hosts of the Thrillgeek Podcast, Editor and Digital Content Coordinator here at Thrillgeek. When he is not going to the theme parks, traveling with his wife, Cyn or playing with their dogs. He is playing drums, going to concerts, trying some of the amazing food or enjoying many of the amazing performing arts we have in Orlando.

