Hotel info please

[claireanddylan]

So last year we made it to Disney but didn't quite manage Universal. This year I would really like to have a couple of solid days there (we are staying in LBV) and figured it'd prob be more time and cost effective to just book a hotel for a night or two.
I'm looking for a hotel that is near the entrance or offering a shuttle bus. Nice to be within walking distance to some restaurants too. I can't quite stretch to any of the Universal hotels so I'm not hugely fussy on the room as long as it's offering good transport.
Does anyone have any ideas?

 

[claireanddylan]

Just seen the crown plaza hotel. Has anyone stayed here? Reviews are a mixed bag.

 

[macraven]

offsite hotels close, walking distance, to the parks include
doubletree, holiday inn and those right next to them.