Credit: Edited by Inside the MagicUniversal Orlando Resort nearly perished in an engulfing fire that destroyed an abandoned hotel that lies next to Universal’s Endless Summer resort.
To see an entire hotel go up in massive flames is not the norm in Orlando, but yesterday morning, that is exactly what happened.
The blaze erupted at the rundown I-Drive Grand Resort & Suites, located in Orlando’s bustling tourist area. Emergency responders were alerted at 6:15 p.m. The fire consumed approximately a quarter of the building, nearly crossing over onto Universal Orlando Resort property.
Property records indicate that a 2020 inspection described the condition of the structure as “neglected, damaged, dilapidated, unsecured, or abandoned.”
Hurricane specialist Zach Covey shared the Downtown Orlando camera, which shows billowing clouds of smoke taking over the city skyline as the fire burns down what used to be a popular resort located in one of the most popular and tourist-filled areas of Orlando.
BREAKING | An active fire is happening near Universal Studio’s Endless Summer resort.
@MyNews13
is reaching out for more information.You can see the active fire on our skycam from Downtown Orlando.
BREAKING | An active fire is happening near Universal Studio's Endless Summer resort. @MyNews13 is reaching out for more information.
You can see the active fire on our skycam from Downtown Orlando. pic.twitter.com/USKQ4bs8oE
— Zach Covey (@ZachCoveyTV) March 30, 2024
Zach also shared an update stating, “UPDATE | Our crew is on the scene of a 2 alarm structure fire at an abandoned hotel right behind Universal’s Endless Summer resort. The fire is contained behind Endless Summer and it, nor the Hampton Inn next door, is not at risk of fire spread.”
Thankfully, while this fire could have very well taken down Endless Summer Resort, endangering thousands of Universal Orlando guests here for the Easter holiday, it did not, and no injuries have been reported.
According to officials, the motel has been the sight of multiple fires this year, one on February 27 and another on March 10.
While this hotel has been prone to catching on fire, Universal is not a fire hazard that guests should worry about. The last fire scare that happened at Universal took place in July of 2023, and even that was a false alarm on CityWalk.
In 2008, Universal Studios Hollywood experienced a fire that ruined one of their major attractions. The fire persisted for a full 24 hours and inflicted significant damage on the park, particularly devastating over 150,000 master recordings of music and the iconic King Kong Encounter. In the aftermath, only four walls remained standing from the entire attraction, compelling Universal to dismantle it. Subsequently, the attraction was succeeded by King Kong: 360 3-D, which made its debut on July 1, 2010.
The fire on I-Drive has since been contained, and it appears that no operations at Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, or Volcano Bay have been reported. Additionally, no one staying at the Endless Summer Resort issued any complaints about the fire, even though it was taking place next to them.
Universal’s Endless Summer Resort offers two distinct hotels, Surfside Inn and Suites, and Dockside Inn and Suites, providing affordable accommodations near Universal Orlando Resort. These vibrant hotels feature spacious rooms, colorful décor, and a fun surf-themed atmosphere. Guests can enjoy amenities such as expansive pools, dining options, and complimentary shuttle transportation to Universal’s theme parks and CityWalk.
In addition to Endless Summer Resort, Universal Orlando Resort boasts several other hotels, each offering its own unique theme and experience. Loews Portofino Bay Hotel captures the charm of the Italian seaside village of Portofino, while the Hard Rock Hotel immerses guests in the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle with music-inspired décor and rock memorabilia. Loews Royal Pacific Resort transports visitors to a tropical paradise with its South Pacific-themed ambiance, and Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort offers a nostalgic journey back to the 1950s and 60s with its retro-chic design.
For a modern and sleek experience, guests can stay at Universal’s Aventura Hotel, while those seeking a Caribbean-inspired getaway can choose Universal’s Sapphire Falls Resort. With a diverse range of accommodations and amenities, Universal Orlando’s hotels ensure that every guest can find the perfect place to stay while enjoying the excitement of the theme parks.
Have you ever seen a fire break out at a theme park?