The nice thing about staying on site is the express pass you have. It makes it so you really don't have to plan much for US. A little planning for IoA is necessary, mainly because of Harry Potter.
Orlando Informer is pretty helpful.
We stayed at Hard Rock, which I know gets mixed reviews, but we are planning on staying again next summer. It may have been our favorite hotel ever. But you have to love 70s-90s rock, because it is played everywhere. I think that's why we loved it. We all wanted to hang at the pool, listening to the DJ, the kids playing pool games with the DJ and other kids, ordering drinks....relaxing and super fun.
The ability to walk to the parks easily from this resort, and to Citywalk made it so convenient. The boats are nice, but the walking is faster.
We ate at margaritaville, sat on the back to eat and listen to live music (a guy with a guitar taking requests.)
When we do Disney, I have lists of where to go in what order to avoid lines. At these parks there really was no need. A few rides don't take express pass, but most do. We went during spring break and rode things like MIB again and again without waiting.
I have heard great things about the other two resorts, so you really just have to look at what they offer. For example, my parents are looking at going. They would hate Hard Rock. Portofino would work for them. I considered booking Portofino for us as it looks beautiful, but my family overruled.
You don't need nearly as much time to research Universal as you do Disney.
Have fun!
