I just returned from a 7 night stay at the Crown Plaza Universal in Orlando and have some mixed reviews.

First, I have to say that the room was very clean, the bed was extremely comfortable and the water pressure was good. In addition, the staff was very courteous and went out of their way to help me out.

My big negative for this hotel was the restaurant. To put it bluntly, the service was awful. I arrived every morning and after a bad experience, did not want the buffet. Each morning, the hostess would not provide menus, unless requested. This was a big turn off. I would brush this off as bad service in the AM, however, the exact same thing happened in the evening. I could not get a menu, and then I could not get someone to take my order.

However, back to the breakfast... If you do not look carefully, you can get completely hosed -- as I did. You see, the buffet, and egg dishes all include coffee and juice in the price. However, if you order the french toast or other specialty items, juice and coffee each cost $3.50 (so you add $7 to each meal). It came so unexpectedly because the server walked around the table filling up juice and coffee mugs without informing us that we would be paying an extra $7 per person. Just imagine my surprise the morning that the whole table ordered french toast. There was an extra $20 on the breakfast bill which just did not seem to make any sense.

The service in general was helpful, however the operation seemed a little unorganized. For example, the business center ran out of paper for printing and the front desk attendant informed me that the hotel had run out of paper huh????.

As this is a convention hotel, for $290 a night, I expect just a little more.

I booked due to what I read. But, I have a few observations that aren't great. This honestly reminds me of every other decent hotel. Negatives: This hotel is a bit isolated. Yes, restaurants are within two miles, but forget walking unless you like Denny's. They have a free shuttle to attractions: OMG- an old bus with a crazy driver who can't make one turn without backing up four times!! Not to mention, they stop at every hotel until you get there- you'd get there quicker walking. Honestly.

The beds are great- but the closet-sized AC unit is a nightstand away from your head- so everytime it goes on prepared to get woken up. Other than that... fine, but excellent? Dunno

Booked the Crowne Plaza for 5 nights at the end of our holiday and enjoyed every minute of it,. We splashed out a bit more for an executive room on the 15th floor which was worth the extra. One of the perks is access to the lounge on the 15th floor which is great place relax over breakfast or an evening drink. The staff in the lounge are great (as they are throughout the hotel) - don't forget to tip them though (especially you Brit's!)

The room was spacious and comfortable with a great view towards universal studios.

We ate out every night because the range of restaurants nearby is vast (try Charley's Steakhouse or Fish Bones). We did have a snack of soup and chicken wings in Chat's Bar one day which was very good.

The pool and deck area are great - although you lose the sun quite early which is a shame. The pool is heated though - this is really appreciated in February.

All in all this property is highly recommended

fabulous hotel....

staff friendly and really helpful, the rooms where excellent spacious, clean and at least 4-5* bedding just so nice.
location for universal was perfect with free transport.... with so much to do we didnt get to use all their great facilities including the lovely pool area, games room ect...

i would definitly return to this hotel if i was going to orlando wouldnt think about staying anywhere else.... i can be very fussy about hotel standards and beleive me i left very very happy and relaxed about our stay.... breakfast was great too....

stayed as a couple aged 30/38