As you pull up in front of the gilt-guitar fountain, give in to your desire to be treated like rock-star royalty. White-on-white-on-white is the theme of the ultra-modern guest rooms, with subtle accents of blond wood and rock star portraiture providing warmth and wit. Chairs, lamps and even drawer pulls are sleek, creating an unstudied elegance.

Stroll the premises with cocktail in hand and gaze at over $1 million worth of rock memorabilia and history proudly decking the halls. KISS guitars and Elvis jumpsuits just scratch the surface of this remarkable collection, and there’s more to be found at the Hard Rock Vault multimedia experience, located in nearby CityWalk. Lounge poolside in The Beatles’ Yellow Submarine or Stevie Wonder’s Musicquarium cabanas. Stately palms and a real sand beach surround the 12,000-square-foot pool that features underwater speakers. Sip a Sweet Home Alabama or pound a Purple Rain at the Beach Club Bar and Grill, which features decadent Emack & Bolio’s ice cream for dessert.

Bedding down at the Hard Rock bestows other privileges as well. Be the envy of all as your room key lets you bypass the lines at both of Universal’s bustling theme parks. You’ll cruise to-and-fro the parks in style, the wind in your hair, courtesy of complimentary water taxi service from the hotel.