A stay at the Universal Grand Hotel in Beijing offers a
unique blend of immersive entertainment and modern convenience, making it a
prime choice for anyone looking to enjoy Universal Studios Beijing with maximum
ease. Located just steps away from the entrance to the park, this hotel is
designed to offer guests an experience with a subtle mix of Hollywood flair,
top-notch hospitality, and family-friendly amenities.
Room Experience: Cozy, Modern, and Family-Centric
Entering the Universal Grand Hotel, it’s clear that the
hotel’s focus is on simplicity and function. The rooms are designed with
families in mind, and despite being compact, they manage to deliver on comfort
and convenience. Details such as the sliding barn doors for the bathroom add a
touch of contemporary flair, and the cozy king beds with soft linens offer a
welcoming respite after a long day exploring the park. Notably, each room comes
equipped with additional child-friendly amenities, including smaller robes and
toiletries, and even a pull-out sofa bed to comfortably accommodate the whole
family.
Dining Options: An American-Inspired City Walk
For dining, the hotel connects guests with Universal Beijing
Resort’s “CityWalk,” an expansive dining and shopping area accessible directly
from the hotel entrance. The CityWalk Beijing, modeled after the popular
Universal CityWalk in Los Angeles, hosts a mix of international and local
eateries. With options like Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., dim sum, and even a fusion
street food market featuring Southeast Asian flavors, there’s something for
everyone. Many visitors gravitate toward the larger eateries in the evening,
but there are also plenty of snacks and quick bites available to fit any dining
preference. The range of flavors is impressive, making the CityWalk a
must-visit destination even for those not staying at the hotel. The bar offers a curated selection of
international and local beverages, making it a cozy retreat. Enjoying a
chocolate stout here feels especially luxurious after a cold winter day
exploring Beijing. The service at the restaurant and bar areas of the hotel has
also been praised for its attentiveness and dedication, reflecting the resort’s
commitment to making every guest feel like a VIP.
Hotel Features: Service and Family Entertainment
The hotel’s design echoes elements of Southern California’s
architectural aesthetics, featuring clean lines and a mix of Spanish and art
deco styles. The rooms and hallways are filled with memorabilia, such as stills
from iconic Universal films, which are tastefully scattered throughout the
hotel and provide a small museum-like feel. The high ceilings and abundant
staff presence add to the hotel’s upscale yet welcoming atmosphere.
One of the highlights for families is the Kids Club, which
doubles as a mini-cinema with tiny director chairs, fun lighting, and areas
dedicated to children’s activities. For parents needing a break, this space is
a wonderful feature, allowing the kids to be immersed in the entertainment
world. The fitness center, while on the smaller side, offers basic workout
equipment, which can come in handy for guests who want to maintain their
exercise routines.
A unique aspect of staying at the Universal Grand is the
early park access. Guests of the hotel can enter Universal Studios an hour
before the general public, making it possible to experience popular rides and
attractions with significantly shorter wait times. This perk, exclusive to
Universal hotel guests, gives families a valuable head start in navigating the
park’s offerings before the larger crowds arrive .
The CityWalk area adjacent to the hotel is not just about
food; it also houses an extensive shopping district. In the colder months,
visitors can ice skate at the seasonal rink, and there are several specialty
shops featuring Universal-themed merchandise. From Harry Potter robes to
Minions gear, these stores offer plenty of memorabilia for fans of all ages.
Universal Studios Beijing itself is one of the largest theme
parks in China, spread across seven themed lands, including Minion Land, Kung
Fu Panda Land of Awesomeness, and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. It
opened in September 2021 and has since become a top attraction in Beijing. By
choosing the Universal Grand Hotel, guests can enjoy seamless access to these
attractions, bypassing transportation and the hassle of long commutes.
Final Thoughts
The hotel may not boast the level of luxury found in some
other five-star properties in Beijing, but it offers an experience that aligns
with the excitement of the Universal brand. With immediate access to Universal
Studios Beijing, early park entry, family-friendly amenities, and attentive
service, this hotel is a top choice for families and fans alike. Staying here
allows for a deeper immersion in the Universal world while also enjoying the
convenience of a short commute back to your room after a busy day at the park.
Rojo Rating:
- Location: 10
- Facilities: 6
- Amenities: 5
- Décor: 6
- Staff: 8
- Food: 8
- Cleanliness: 7
- Comfort: 7
- Uniqueness: 4
- Value: 4
Total: 65/100