ORLANDO, Fla. — The new Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel, welcomed its first guests on Wednesday, Universal Orlando officials announced.

Referred to by Universal Orlando officials as the “crown jewel” of Universal’s hotels, the 500-room hotel overlooks the resort's newest theme park, Epic Universe, and has a Mediterranean-inspired feel.

Universal Helios Grand Hotel was originally scheduled to open on May 22 along with Epic Universe, but Universal Orlando recently announced that the hotel’s opening date would be moved up.

The hotel features rooms with views of the theme park, as well as a dedicated entrance to the park for ticket holders — which is just steps away.

Universal Helios Grand Hotel also offers "How to Train Your Dragon"-themed kids’ suites, the Bar Helios rooftop bar with more views of Epic Universe, a resort-style zero-entry pool, poolside cabanas, a variety of amenities and more.

Guests of this hotel can also look out for theme park benefits that are exclusive to Universal hotel guests, such as early park admission to select Universal parks (which will expand to include Epic Universe starting on May 23) up to one hour before the park opens with valid admission, along with complimentary shuttle bus transportation to the theme parks and Universal CityWalk, Universal Orlando officials stated.

View information about Universal Helios Grand Hotel reservations and more.