We stayed across the street. There are shuttle buses going to most of the hotels across the highway. Check for $'s of all there. You just need somewhere to sleep. There are a number if testairants or fast foods in that area.
Best place for this is to use Google and type in hotels near universal studios Orlando and look at some of these latest reviews alot of good rating from years ago but have started to go down hill since.
If you do decide to stay in a Universal resort, make sure you stay at one that includes the Express Pass. I believe Cabana Bay is the only Universal resort that does NOT include the Express Pass for the parks. You can buy the pass separately, but that's extra money out of your pocket. But if budget's not an issue, then it wouldn't matter.
Somewhere decent. The off site hotels are hellholes, full of refugees from the hurricanes last year.
There are many beautiful hotels and inns all around the area some more expensive and some not so much. It all depends on your budget. Almost all provide shuttles to and from the park.
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