Universal Stella Nova Resort: An Autism & Sensory-Friendly Guide

As a travel advisor specializing in accessible travel experiences, I recently had the opportunity to explore Universal Orlando's newest hotel property, Stella Nova Resort. Beyond the shimmering exterior and space-themed amenities, I was particularly interested in how this property might work for families traveling with members with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or other cognitive differences.

Arrival experience: first impressions matter

The approach to Stella Nova offers wide, well-marked roads that minimize confusion, an essential feature for families who may experience travel anxiety. However, be prepared for the striking exterior — the geometric, colorful mosaic facade is visually stimulating and could be either fascinating or overwhelming, depending on your loved one's sensory preferences.

Front entrance of hotel; lobby area

A sizable revolving glass door entrance opens to a grand lobby featuring an open design with cosmic-inspired elements. While beautiful, open spaces can sometimes create sensory challenges.

Potential challenges:

• Background noise in the open lobby can echo during busy periods

• The luminescent features and geometric patterns provide notable visual stimulation

• Check-in lines may form during peak arrival times

Accommodations to know:

• The lobby offers multiple seating areas arranged in nooks, providing retreat spaces if needed

• The six-elevator bank moves efficiently between floors, minimizing wait times that can trigger anxiety

• Each floor has spacious elevator lobbies that provide decompression zones away from the main areas

Spacious elevator lobby; beverage cooler

Room features: creating a safe base

The standard rooms provide several autism-friendly features:

• The uncluttered, contemporary theming of the rooms features furniture with clean lines and defined spaces, creating clear visual boundaries that can help with spatial processing and organization

• The elongated porthole windows create a defined viewing experience that many find calming

• Each room includes a cooler-style refrigerator for storing familiar foods or medications

• Connecting rooms are available for families needing more space or separate sleeping areas

• The space theme creates a consistent, predictable environment throughout

Standard sink; standard bathroom

Mobility & accessibility

For families with members who have both sensory processing differences and mobility/hearing requirements, these specialized rooms maintain the same space-themed atmosphere while adding necessary accessibility features.

Mobility-accessible rooms:

• Compact but functional 315-square-foot rooms with two queen beds

• Separate bath and vanity areas for added privacy and flexibility

• Two accessibility configurations available:

  • Option 1: ADA tub with grab bars and handheld shower

  • Option 2: Toilet with grab bars and doors with 36" wide openings

• Maximum occupancy of four guests

Hearing-accessible room entrance

Hearing-accessible rooms:

• Visual alarm and doorbell notifications

• Flashing light on phone for alerts

• Outlet near phone for TTY device connectivity

• Maximum occupancy of four guests

The hotel's low, wide design with efficient elevator systems makes it particularly suitable for guests using mobility aids. The spacious elevator lobbies on each floor provide ample turning space and waiting areas.

Dining options: managing mealtime

Dining can be one of the most challenging aspects of travel for families with sensory considerations.

Available options:

• Cosmos Cafe and Market provides grab-and-go items, reducing wait times

• Starbucks-branded coffees mean familiar options for those who prefer consistency

• Pizza delivery directly to rooms during select hours offers a low-stress dining alternative

• QR code ordering at the pool eliminates the need to wait in line

Potential challenges:

• Limited dining venues may mean crowds during peak meal times

• The food court-style setup can be noisy and visually stimulating

• Menu options, while better than usual, may not accommodate all specific dietary needs

Recreation areas: sensory breaks & energy release

Pool area:

• The single large pool has excellent sight lines for supervising family members

• The splash pad offers alternative water play with less commitment than full swimming

• QR code ordering means not having to leave a comfortable spot once established

Indoor options:

• The arcade and recreation room provide structured entertainment in a controlled environment

• Various seating areas throughout the property offer quiet retreat options

• The walking path (future access to Epic Universe) provides a defined movement space

Universal Park access: maximizing the experience

One of the most significant advantages for families with members who have ASD or cognitive disabilities is the proximity (walking distance) to Universal's newest Epic Universe park and its accommodation programs:

Key benefits:

• Early Park Admission (available on arrival day even before check-in) means experiencing attractions with fewer crowds

• Epic Universe is accessible via walking path or complimentary shuttle

• Complimentary shuttle transportation eliminates parking stress at the other Universal Studios, Universal Islands of Adventure, Volcano Bay water park and the CityWalk entertainment complex

• When Epic Universe opens in May 2025, the walking path will provide a predictable route without transportation transitions

1. Request in advance: Note any specific room requests or needs when booking and follow up five to seven days before arrival. Specifically, ask for a room away from the third-floor constellation ceiling, which attracts visitor traffic.

2. Room amenities: Each room includes a cooler-style refrigerator. Microwaves are available by request only for medical needs, not for general rental.

3. Accessibility options: Request mobility-accessible or hearing-accessible rooms when booking as they are limited in number.

4. Practical amenities:
   - Water refill stations throughout the property
   - ATM onsite
   - Luggage drop-off available on arrival day
   - Avis car rental desk on-site

5. Dining strategies: Visit dining areas during off-peak hours (early or late) to minimize crowding and noise.

6. Park access benefits: Early Park Admission is available on arrival day even before check-in. The Universal Attraction Assistance Pass for guests with cognitive disabilities can be arranged at Guest Services in any park.

7. Current status: The hotel is in its first month of operations, with Epic Universe opening in May 2025. Crowd levels and resort operations may change after the park opening.

This report is based on a February 2025 site inspection. Accessibility features and accommodations may change over time. Always confirm current offerings when booking.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Orlando page.