Disney's Contemporary ResortvsHard Rock Hotel Orlando
Both hotels are rated highly by expert writers. On balance, Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando is preferred by most writers compared to Disney's Contemporary Resort. Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando has a TripExpert Score of 86 with endorsements from 12 reviews including Star Service, Zagat and Condé Nast Traveler.
Disney's Contemporary Resort
4600 North World Drive, Lake Buena Vista, Orlando, FL 32830
From $380/night
- Bar/Lounge
- Hot Tub
- Free Internet
- Room Service
- Shuttle Bus
- Laundry Service
DK Eyewitness
"The monorail passes right through the middle of this concrete resort, where the rooms have recently undergone a complete renovation."
Rough Guide
"Disney monorail runs right through the centre of this hotel, which takes its exterior design from the futuristic fantasies of the Magic Kingdom’s Tomorrowland."
Fodor's
"You're paying for location at this sleek, modern, luxury resort next to the Magic Kingdom, as the monorail runs right through the lobby, making park hopping a breeze." Full review
Travel + Leisure
"The Contemporary is one of Disney’s original resorts, and it’s a favorite among kids both because it’s home to both Chef Mickey’s and the Monorail cuts right through the hotel." Full review
Gayot
"Spectacular views and convenient monorail station highlight this futuristic Disney icon."
The Telegraph
8.0
"Disney's Contemporary Resort has been extensively refurbished but still includes the monorail track running through the vast, enclosed foyer, providing a genuine Disney feel good experience." Full review
Condé Nast Traveler
"Why book? This classic Disney resort has the best amenity possible—its backyard is the Magic Kingdom." Full review
Frommer's
"A midcentury architectural treasure, and indicative of the revolutionary methods that Walt Disney World hoped to pioneer...even if you can’t stay here, this is the best hotel to tour. " Full review
Lonely Planet
"The granddaddy of Disney resorts, the Contemporary's futuristic A-frame opened Walt Disney World in 1971 but feels uninspired and disappointing by today's standards." Full review
Hard Rock Hotel Orlando Show All Reviews
5800 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819
From $247/night
- Pet Friendly
- Bar/Lounge
- Hot Tub
- Free Internet
- Room Service
- Shuttle Bus
DK Eyewitness
"Mission-style architecture, an impressive collection of musical memorabilia, and an underwater sound system built into the impressive pool make this the hippest of Universal’s luxury resorts."
Rough Guide
"Stuffed with rock memorabilia, and with familiar tunes blaring out at poolside, this is the least tranquil of the park’s resorts – and the most popular with the younger generation."
Star Service
"Overlooking Universal Studios from its privileged locale inside the park, this hotel is situated on a waterway that connects it to its equally impressive siblings." Full review
Zagat
3.7
"Guests "have a blast" at this "lively", "upbeat" Orlando resort that's set in a "terrific" location within "walking distance of Universal's parks"."
Gayot
"California mission-style architecture, thoughtfully chosen music programming, an on-site concert venue and authentic rock-n-roll memorabilia make this resort an attraction all by itself."
Afar Magazine
"I walked into my hotel room and there on the bed was my personal invitation to rock." Full review
The Telegraph
8.0
"This ultra-hip deluxe hotel is themed as a rock star’s mansion and Universal Orlando Resort treats every guest like a VIP." Full review
Condé Nast Traveler
"With “thoughtfully designed” rooms and the “absolute best suites ever,” the Hard Rock Hotel will make you feel like rock and roll royalty." Full review
Fodor's
"The Hard Rock is perfect for large multigeneration family trips and for smaller families looking to keep children entertained." Full review
i
Rooms have black-and-white photos of pop icons and 32-inch flat-panel TVs.
2010 Fodor's 100 Hotel Award Winner
Electricity and water are a dangerous combination, but this is a fact the Hard Rock chooses to ignore (and we're glad they do!
Travel + Leisure
"Ever wondered what it feels like to live like a rock star? Find out at this upscale resort, which features 650 guest rooms, including the 2,375-square-foot Graceland suite" Full review