universal studios orlando backstage tour

Getting to Know Universal – Free Attraction Tours

Curious about how your favorite Universal Orlando attractions work? Want to see the backstage areas not available to most guests? Need to know where all the easter eggs are located? The free attraction tours at Universal Orlando are a fun diversion for seasoned fans of the parks. In this article, we will cover what to expect from a tour, how to request one, and which attractions feature tours.

What Are Attraction Tours?

Universal Orlando offers several free, unpublicized tours of popular attractions. Tours last approximately 15-30 minutes and include behind-the-scenes information that explains the attraction’s stories and how the rides work. Many tours include visits to areas guests normally cannot access such as control booths, the Immigration Floor at MiB Alien Attack, or under the Revenge of the Mummy track.

Tours are available when staffing permits at the discretion of the Team Members. To request a tour ask the greeter Team Member located at the attraction entrance if tours are available. If the attraction tour is not available come back before park closing or the next morning.

Universal Studios Florida

Revenge of the Mummy

Team Members will guide guests through the attraction queue, explaining the attraction’s oddly complex storyline, and finally get a tour of the track switch section of the ride where you can watch the “Cup Of Coffee” video play out every 30 seconds.

Race Through New York starring Jimmy Fallon

View prior Tonight Show hosts artifacts followed by a tour of the lounge areas. Guests then get a behind-the-scenes tour of the show control booth before ending on the VIP balcony.

Fast & Furious: Supercharge

Guided tour of the garage showing off the various cars and trucks in the queue’s garage.

Hogwarts Express Tour

Discover the Harry Poter easter eggs and how this “train” actually works.

Gringotts Bank Tour

Learn about the complex attraction’s storyline and where the story slots into the Deathly Hollows movies. Plus learn about some cool technical facts.

Men in Black: Alien Attack

The MiB Immigration tour brings guests down to the immigration office room featured in the attraction queue. Take photos with the aliens, sign the log books, and sit in those incredibly uncomfortable white chairs .

Explore the forest inside the attraction’s queue with the opportunity to watch the full Botanicus preshow.

Transformers Tour

Walk through the queue as the Team Members attempt to explain the attraction’s storyline. Plus you’ll hear about the attraction’s cool technology like the dual elevator lifts.

Islands of Adventure

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey Tour

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey Castle Tour is a self-guided tour through the Universal Express queue. Guests walk through Dumbledor’s office, the portrait gallery, and the Gryffindor Common Room. The best option to see the inside of Hogwarts School for Witchcraft and Wizardry for families with young kids or those with motion sickness.

Jurassic World VelociCoaster Tour

Queue walk-through that highlights the easter eggs and technology behind VelociCoaster.

Skull Island: Reign of Kong Tour

Skull Island: Reign of Kong’s Temple Tour takes guests through the attraction’s queue, explaining the technology found within the attraction and explaining the ride’s plot. No backstage areas are visited in this tour but you will be able to linger in areas you will normally not for the queue.

Doctor Doom Tour

Don’t let the drop tower scare you away from seeing one of the funniest queue videos ever made.

The Incredible Hulk Coaster

The only way to take photos and videos of the Incredible Hulk Coaster is through the Gamma Tour. Team Members will point out various aspects of the attraction’s storyline, queue easter eggs, and other attraction information.

TouringPlans Touring Tips

• Tours are offered at the discretion of Team Members – tours are most often granted in the morning when attractions are fully staffed but guests have not arrived.
• The free tours do not include riding the attraction. Universal’s VIP Tours take you behind the scenes and skip the lines.
• Be cool man, Team Members are more likely to work with you to provide a tour if you work with them.

(Originally published October 14, 2022. Last updated on February 17, 2024.)

Have you done any Universal Orlando free tours? Leave your thoughts in the comments below!

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Joseph Matt

Joe covers theme parks through the lens of his quality engineering day job. He has over five years of writing experience at Touring Plans and has gone on dozens of trips to Orlando over his life. When not at amusement parks you can find Joe at breweries, enjoying live theater, playing video games, and cooking.

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Do you have to pay for park admission for your backstage tours? If not, will you please send me information on your group backstage tours, group pricing, days of tours, hours of tours and how long the tours last? Thank you

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Maximize your fun on your favorite participating rides and attractions in both theme parks when you purchase a Universal Express? Pass or a VIP Experience. Experience an entire universe of excitement and have more time to see and do it all.

UNIVERSAL EXPRESS? PASS

Upgrade you vacation package to include a Universal Express? Pass AND Skip the regular lines at participating rides and attractions. Guest staying at either Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel ® , or Loews Royal Pacific Resort receive FREE* Universal Express? Pass access in both Universal Orlando theme parks (A value of up to $89** per person, per day. Valid theme park admission required.)

With the VIP Experience, you’ll be personally escorted by a Universal Orlando™ expert on a guided tour where you’ll get exclusive backstage access, learn fun insider information, and enjoy the parks’ most amazing rides and attractions throughout Universal Studios Florida™, Universal’s Islands of Adventure™, or both theme parks. (Valid theme park admission required.)

Interested in booking a Private VIP Experience? Call 1-866-346-9350

Halloween Horror Nights™ Tours

Halloween Horror Nights - R.I.P. Tour Available only on Halloween Horror Nights event evenings.

If you’d kill for VIP access to Halloween Horror Nights, put your life in our hands on the R.I.P. Tour. On event nights we’ll roll out the blood red carpet with a guided VIP walking tour of Halloween Horror Nights for your party^. Includes VIP entry to haunted houses and select attractions, and other exclusive benefits.

On Sale June 2016

Halloween Horror Nights™ - Behind The Screams: Unmasking The Horror Tour Seasonally available during Halloween Horror Nights.

Shine a light on the darkness of Halloween Horror Nights™ with a Behind the Screams: Unmasking the Horror Tour † . On select days, get a chilling look into how Universal Orlando’s Art & Design team transforms the biggest names in horror into haunted houses on a lights-on VIP tour (morning and/or afternoon) for up to 15 guests.

WARNING: EVENT MAY BE TOO INTENSE FOR YOUNG CHILDREN AND IS NOT RECOMMENDED FOR CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 13. NO COSTUMES OR MASKS ALLOWED.

To Purchase Call (800) 711-0080 or Use the Booking Tool to the Above Right.

All prices, package inclusions & options are subject to availability and to change without notice and additional restrictions may apply. Errors will be corrected where discovered, and Universal Orlando™ and Universal Parks & Resorts Vacations™ reserve the right to revoke any stated offer and to correct any errors, inaccuracies or omissions, whether such error is on this website or any print or other advertisement relating to these products and services.

*Paid theme park admission required. Not valid for guests staying at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort; available for purchase only. Not valid at Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™ and other select attractions. Only valid for the length of hotel stay as indicated on the Universal Express? Unlimited pass. Only valid for the number of guests staying in the room. Ride access available during normal theme park operating hours only. Not valid for separately ticketed special events. Additional restrictions may apply and benefits are subject to change without notice.

^Up to 6 guests per party and 12 per tour. Separate Halloween Horror Nights™ event ticket is required for all RIP Tour experiences. Additional restrictions apply and benefits are subject to change without notice.

†Unmasking the Horror Tour ticket is not valid for admission to the Halloween Horror Nights event. Tour pricing does not include regular daytime or event admission. Pricing, benefits and inclusions are subject to change without notice. Reservations are required and subject to availability. Additional restrictions apply and benefits are subject to change without notice. Universal elements and all related indicia TM & © 2016 Universal Studios. © 2016 Universal Orlando. All rights reserved.

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Universal Orlando Resort VIP Tour Experience

by Whitney Littlejohn · February 17, 2021

You don’t have to be a celebrity to experience Universal Orlando Resort like a star. With a VIP Experience guided tour, you’ll be led by a Universal Orlando expert through the most popular rides and attractions, plus enjoy a variety of special benefits before, during, and after your tour.

Prices starting at just $189 per person.

With the VIP experience, you’ll be personally escorted by a Universal Orlando expert on a guided group tour through Universal Studios Florida or Universal’s Islands of Adventure, or both with a 2-park experience.

You’ll get exclusive backstage access, learn fun insider information, and enjoy the parks’ most amazing rides and attractions without waiting in line.

Purchase a 1-Day, 2-Park Experience for a seven hour tour with priority entrance into a minimum of ten rides and attractions, or purchase a 1-Day, 1-Park Experience for a five hour tour with priority entrance into a minimum of eight major rides and attractions at the park of your choice^. Separate theme park admission required.

Photo: Universal

Along with your guide, you’ll also get:

• Priority front-of-the-line access  to all rides and attractions including The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man®, TRANSFORMERS ™ : The Ride-3D and all of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ attractions and experiences
• Exclusive  behind-the-scenes  experiences in the parks (subject to availability)
• Complimentary  valet parking  (one vehicle, based on availability)
• Reserved seating  at shows (excludes live performances during Mardi Gras and Mannheim Steamroller during the holidays)
• Complimentary  continental breakfast and lunch ** . Dinner included in Private VIP Experiences only
• Universal Express Unlimited  ride access at participating rides and attractions throughout the rest of the day (during normal park operating hours)
• Exclusive VIP Experiences lanyard and credential
• Universal CityWalk Party Pass™ , valid only on date of VIP Experience (during normal CityWalk park operating hours)^^
• Discounts  at select Universal Orlando owned and operated merchandise locations in the theme parks and CityWalk

As the only guests on this all-day tour, your private group will get the exclusive VIP treatment. Build your own itinerary and experience the parks your way with the tour guide’s undivided attention and unlimited front-of-the-line access to all participating rides and attractions. Enjoy the perks and benefits listed above plus, sample many of the destination’s most popular dishes with a full-service dinner at one of Universal Orlando’s award-winning restaurants. In addition, you will receive a My Universal Photos 3-Day Photo Package (Photo package entitlement starts on first day of tour)*.

Private tours available at Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure: 1-Day, 1-Park Tour (Not available during peak times) 1-Day, 2-Park Tour 2-Day, 2-Park Tour

Separate theme park admission required for all VIP Experiences.  To book a Private VIP Tour or for more details, call  (866) 346-9350 , 9 am–7 pm, seven days a week.

Have you ever taken a VIP Tour? Let us know in the comments below!

Are you ready to start planning your next adventure? Contact me today for your FREE, no obligation quote for a Universal Studios vacation! My planning services are included at no extra cost. Best of all my services are absolutely FREE! Get in touch at 843-288-1130, via email at  [email protected]  or follow along on  Facebook .

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Universal Orlando VIP Tour: Exclusive Awesomeness or Just Another Expense?

Whether you’re visiting the Universal Studios Resort properties for the first time or looking for a new way to spend the day, you may be interested in a more exclusive way to experience everything the theme park has to offer. The Universal Orlando VIP Experience Tours are a backstage pass to the parks that “roll out the red carpet” for guests.

It sounds like the perfect opportunity to skip the lines and enjoy some special treatment without worrying about missing your must-dos of the day. But is the VIP Experience really worth the price?

Let’s dive in and see!

What’s Included in the Universal Orlando VIP Tour Experience?

The Universal Orlando VIP Tour is billed as a backstage experience where guests are treated to an exclusive, personalized adventure that brings them to the front of the action without the wait.

There are two types of Universal Orlando VIP tours: the nonexclusive VIP Tour Experience and the private Universal Orlando VIP Tour Experience.

Both experiences are guided walking tours that take you through one or both Universal parks. The major difference between them is whether you’ll be joined by another party during your visit.

Universal VIP Tour Experience

There are two types of VIP tours at this level. One takes you to a single park (your choice of Islands of Adventure or Universal Studios Florida ), and the other takes you through both parks on the same day.

1-Day, 1 Park Experience.

This experience is 5 hours long and includes priority entrance at a minimum of 8 rides or attractions (which includes character meet-and-greets and shows).

1-Day, 2-Park Experience.

This experience is 7 hours long and includes priority entrance at a minimum of 10 rides or attractions (which includes character meet-and-greets and shows).

Both options include:

• Complimentary valet parking at Universal Citywalk
• Complimentary continental breakfast and lunch at a private guest lounge (*only available for the 1-Day, 2-Park option)
• Front-of-the-line access to all rides and attractions during the tour (based on your guide’s itinerary)
• Behind-the-scenes experiences, tours, tips, and trivia from your VIP tour guide
• Character meet-and-greets
• Reserved seating at shows
• Souvenir VIP Lanyards
• Select discounts on Universal operated merchandise locations and full-service dining locations
• Universal Express Passes for use after the tour

Private Universal VIP Tour Experience

The Private VIP Experience includes everything in the regular VIP Experience as well as several things you won’t get elsewhere. With the Private VIP Experience, your party will be given a personal VIP tour guide for the day. Because you won’t be sharing your guide with anyone else, you can create your own itinerary for the day and prioritize whatever you’d like.

Much like the non-private tour, you can book a 1-Day, 1-Park Tour or 1-Day, 2-Park Tour as well as a 2-Day, 2-Park Tour. Each of these tours is 8 hours long.

With the Private VIP Experience, you’ll get:

• Complimentary breakfast, lunch, and dinner at a full-service restaurant (including several Citywalk locations not inside the park)
• Front-of-the-line access to all rides and attractions during the tour
• 3-Day Universal Orlando Photo Pass

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How Does the VIP Experience Work?

Your tour officially starts at the entrance of one of the Universal parks. You should plan to arrive at least 45-60 minutes before that official start time, however. You still need to walk to the park entrance from Universal Citywalk and make your way through security. If your tour begins at or before 11 AM, you’ll start with your complimentary breakfast in a private guest lounge and then move into the fun parts!

If you are in the regular VIP Experience, your guide will create an itinerary based on what the entire group wants. If you have the Private VIP Experience, your private party will make all the decisions and create an itinerary suited to your needs. While Universal can’t guarantee your experiences (due to ride availability), you should be able to prioritize the attractions and shows you’d like to see the most.

The regular Universal Orlando VIP Tour lasts 5-7 hours depending on the type. (Private VIP Experiences operate a bit differently.) Your guide will take you through the parks, bring you to the front of the line for rides, and provide fun trivia and facts about the park you won’t find anywhere else. Once your tour is finished, you will also get an unlimited Universal Express Pass – so you can still skip the lines and catch anything you missed!

When Can you Book the VIP Tour Experience?

The easiest way to book the VIP Experience is through the Universal Orlando website. You can find ticket pricing and availability in their interactive calendar. From there, you can choose the type of ticket and the date you’d like to book your experience. Booking online is the fastest and easiest way to guarantee you’ll get the days you want.

You can also purchase the experience on the day of your visit. However, the tours are subject to availability. During the holiday season, they sell out well in advance. We recommend you reserve your date as soon as possible.

If you are interested in a Private VIP Tour, then you’ll have to contact Universal directly. You can book your tour (or speak to a representative for details) by calling (866) 346-9350 between 9 AM –7 PM EST. The hotline is open seven days a week.

Pricing & Costs for the Universal Orlando VIP Tour Experience

Obviously, this kind of experience comes with a sizable expense. Here’s the biggest detail you need to know – neither of the Universal Orlando VIP Tour Experiences include park admission in the pricing. You must purchase theme park tickets in addition to the VIP Experience. It’s essential to factor that into your budget when considering this experience.

The base price per VIP Experience ticket is $189.00 per person. However, ticket pricing varies by date and estimated park attendance. That means during the busier months – like peak summer dates or the Christmas season – prices can range anywhere from $269/person to $400+/person. Make sure you check the price for the dates you want! You may find a significant difference between going on a Monday versus a Saturday.

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The Private VIP Experience, on the other hand, does not have pricing publicly available. The pricing varies by date and availability. However, the Private VIP Experience at Universal cost typically starts at a flat fee of $3,099.00 for a party of up to five guests. Additional guests can be added for around $375.00 per person.

Is the Universal Orlando VIP Tour Worth It?

Time for the biggest question – is the Universal Orlando VIP Tour Experience worth the price? That depends on what kind of experience you are willing to pay for at the parks and your personal budget for the trip. Your own tolerance for waiting in lines – and handling large crowds – also comes into play.

Cost vs. Value

Let’s break down the Universal Orlando VIP Tour costs compared to a typical day at the park. A single-day ticket for one park typically runs $109 – $159 (depending on the dates), while a 2-Park 1-Day Ticket ranges around $169-$204. Express Passes run $89 -$249, and the Unlimited Express Pass (which can be used on a ride multiple times) can cost you anywhere from $119 to $279.

With that in mind, the additional cost for the VIP Experience may not be outrageous. If you factor multiple meals into the price, you might not be spending too much extra overall.

The biggest bonus of the tour is that you can get front-of-the-line access to ALL rides, shows, and attractions within the Universal Studios parks, even those that are not included in The Express Pass . Right now, that includes Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and the VelociCoaster .

As new attractions open, they’re also likely to be included as options on the VIP Experience months before they’ll be available as part of the Express Pass. You’ll also get the Unlimited Express Pass to use after your tour, meaning you’ll further reduce your wait times for the whole day.

What about your budget?

The biggest factor in determining whether or not you should pay for the Universal Orlando VIP Tour is your budget. If you’re paying for a family of four, these tickets really start to add up. While the included meals in the VIP Experience are high quality (often with items from La Bamba or Mythos on the menu), they do take away a lot of options for specialty dining establishments.

When you factor in the food, snacks, and souvenirs you might want to get during your trip, you may find better value in sticking with the base ticket or springing for the Express Passes instead. There’s no need to put yourself into financial hardship for a vacation.

Our Verdict

If you can afford to splurge on the extra, we will say it does take a lot of stress out of your day. The VIP tour guides are always knowledgeable and try to accommodate everyone in their group. The backstage access is a lot of fun, giving you a glimpse into the off-limits area of the parks.

You also get to skip the lines entirely (unlike using an Express Pass, where your wait may be up to one-half the posted wait time for the attraction). It’s also the most effective way to experience everything in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – including the Hagrid coaster – during a single-day visit.

If you have a very limited time for your vacation, this is the way to hit all of the highlights! It has something to offer first-timers as well as park regulars. Overall, the Universal Orlando VIP Tour is a great way to experience the best parts of the theme park.

Have you done the VIP Experience at Universal Studios Florida ? Did you think it was worth the price? Let us know in the comments below!

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Search this blog, meet randy | the family travel guy, is the vip tour experience at universal orlando worth the price, what you need to know about the vip tour experience at universal orlando.

If you're interested in the VIP Tour Experience at Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure in Orlando, Florida, the guide below will help you learn more about the details you'll want to know and if the extra perks and exclusive access is worth the added cost. 

If you're headed to California, be sure to check out our experience with the VIP Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood:  Is the VIP Experience at Universal Studios Hollywood Worth the Price?

Overview of the VIP Tour Experience at Universal Orlando

The VIP Tour Experience at Universal Orlando Florida includes a gourmet buffet breakfast and buffet lunch, walk-on express access to rides and shows, universal express pass and a guide who will seamlessly plan the entire day for with exclusive access that you can't get on your own or find anywhere else.   

With the VIP Tour Experience, you'll be personally escorted by a Universal Orlando expert on a guided group tour through Universal Studios Florida or Universal's Islands of Adventure, or both when booking a 2-park experience.  

You'll get exclusive backstage access, learn fun insider information along the way, and enjoy the parks most amazing rides and attractions without waiting in line by getting in through back entrance doors.

The VIP Tour Experience ticket options can range anywhere from $189 to $269+ per person, plus tax, with the price depending on the ticket option selected and anticipated crowds that day. 

The VIP Tour Experience ticket options include:

• 1-Day, 2-Park Experience for a seven hour tour with priority entrance into a minimum of ten rides and attractions
• 1-Day, 1-Park Experience for a five hour tour with priority entrance into a minimum of eight major rides and attractions at the park of your choice. 

During the course of the VIP Experience, here is what you can expect:

• Priority access to all rides and attractions including The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man, Transformers the Ride-3D and all of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter attractions
• Exclusive behind-the-scenes experiences in the parks (subject to availability)
• Complimentary valet parking
• Reserved seating at shows (excludes live performances during Mardi Gras and Mannheim Steamroller during the holidays)
• Complimentary continental breakfast and lunch 
• Universal Express Unlimited ride access at participating rides and attractions throughout the rest of the day (during normal park operating hours)
• Exclusive VIP Experiences lanyard and credential
• Discounts at select Universal Orlando merchandise locations in the theme parks and CityWalk

Our VIP Experience & Tour Itinerary

We had previously done a VIP Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood and decided that since it was our first visit to Universal Orlando, we would pony up the extra money needed to do the VIP Tour Experience here as well.  The cost breakdown between the different ticket options is shown below in the next section.  

Here is a recap of our day at Universal Orlando from start to finish with the 2 Park-1 Day VIP Tour Experience:

After visiting Disney World, the prior few days, it was nice to switch it up and head over to Universal Orlando.  We arrived to the valet drop-off at 8:30 AM for our 9:30 AM VIP Experience start time.  We were able to use the Valet Parking (included in the cost of VIP), which was seamless and allowed us to leave our car and head up the escalator straight into the Universal Orlando CityWalk.  We didn't have to worry about parking at all or any long walks from the parking garage into the parks.  

Next we checked into the Universal Studios Florida VIP Check-in Lobby, which is located next to the guest services windows, to far right-hand side of the park ticket sales windows, just behind the small pineapple topped fountain. 

After checking in and getting our VIP tickets and lanyards, we were directed to head over to Cafe La Bamba, where we could enjoy a buffet breakfast and then wait for our tour to start.   

After having a light breakfast, we headed outside of the restaurant to our check-in point, where we'd meet Jack M., our VIP Experience guide for the day.  

For our tour, there were 7 other people, for a total of 11 guests for our VIP Experience.  After meeting everyone at breakfast and our guide Jack, he went over the tentative itinerary for the day, as well as tips for us to use for after the experience ended.  Since there were thunderstorms forecasted for later in the day, the itinerary was planned around the potential rain and trying to complete all of the outdoor rides in Islands of Adventure first.

Here is how our VIP Experience Itinerary for the day was planned, with walk-on access to every ride we went on: 

• Breakfast at Cafe La Bamba at 8:30 AM
• Start of VIP Experience at 9:30 AM, with the first ride being Transformers 4D: The Ride

• Cut through the Universal Orlando Studios in between the two parks, Universal Orlando Florida and Islands of Adventure, about a 5-10 minute walk.

• Cat in the Hat Ride

• Incredible Hulk Coaster

• Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man

• Jurassic World VelociCoaster

• Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure

• Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey

• Cut through the Universal Orlando Studios in between the two parks, Universal Orlando Florida and Islands of Adventure, but this time we walked through and were given a tour of a working studio hangar.
• Lunch at Cafe La Bamba at 1:00 PM

• E.T. Adventure
• Men In Black Alien Attack

• Escape from Gringotts in Diagon Alley and tour of the bank
• Race through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon
• Conclusion of VIP Experience at ~5:00 PM 

Is the VIP Experience at Universal Orlando Worth the Cost?

Is the VIP Experience at Universal Orlando Hollywood worth the extra cost?  The answer to this question basically boils down to your budget, personal preferences and how you value time and experiences.  

If you're visiting Universal Orlando during a busy time of the year with big crowds and want to experience both parks and not worry about missing out on anything, I would 100% say yes it is worth the extra cost.  

We were able to ride (almost) every ride we wanted to Universal Orlando Florida, experience a gourmet breakfast and lunch and get insider tips throughout the day from our guide Jack M.  He provided great insight into each ride, history of the parks and gave us tips and tricks to use for our visit after the tour concluded.

For our VIP Experience tour in mid-September 2022, we had booked these tickets back in mid-July 2022.  When I had considered booking earlier in 2022, the VIP Experience pricing was a little lower than what I ended up paying. 

Here are the ticket options and prices (with taxes included) at time of booking for a family of four (2 Adults and 2 Kids) and how they compare amongst each other to the ticket options available for Universal Orlando: 

• $695 total for a 2-Park, 1-Day Park-to-Park Ticket (Universal Studios Florida + Universal's Islands of Adventure)
• $1115 total for a 2-Park, 1-Day Park-to-Park Ticket + 2-Park Universal Express Pass
• $1245 total for a 2-Park, 1-Day Park-to-Park Ticket + 2-Park Universal Express Unlimited Pass 
• $1881 for a 2-Park, 1-Day Park-to-Park Ticket + VIP Experience 

Based on the ticket options available for the day we were visiting Universal Orlando, you can quickly see how each ticket plus the available add-ons compare to each other.

Since I was considering one of the Universal Express Pass add-ons, I paid ~$636 extra compared to the ticket + 2-Park Universal Express Unlimited Pass.  For that extra price for the VIP Experience, we had a buffet breakfast, buffet lunch, expert guide for seven hours, discounts on merchandise, valet parking, and walk-on access to all of the rides we went on that included Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and Jurassic World VelociCoaster, which are NOT included in any of the Universal Express Passes.

While the value of the VIP Experience is different for everyone, here is how I helped justify the added cost:

• Breakfast buffet value at ~$35 per Adult and $15 per Child, so approximately $100 for our family of four (not including any tax or gratuity)
• Lunch buffet value at ~$50 per Adult and $25 per Child, so approximately $150 for our family of four (not including any tax or gratuity)
• Valet Parking cost is $70.42 (the amount shown on my validated receipt)
• 10% off at Universal merchandise stores I'd value saving us $10-$20.
• The cost of an expert guide is almost priceless, as there was no wait on any rides, so this value comes down to how much you value your time.

If you're visiting Universal Orlando during a busy time of the year with big crowds and want to experience the both parks and not worry about missing out on anything, I would 100% say yes it is worth the extra cost even more.  

We were able to ride (almost) every ride we wanted to Universal Orlando Florida, experience gourmet breakfast and lunch and get insider tips throughout the day from our guide Jack M.  He provided great insight into each ride, history of the parks and gave us tips and tricks to use for our visit after the tour concluded. 

After the VIP Experience ended (around 5:00 PM that day), we would have went on more rides ourselves using our VIP passes, but the heavy rain made us question if getting soaking wet to go on a few more rides would be worth it.

Some things I would recommend for improvement to make this VIP Experience even that much better would include having time to visit characters (fun for young kids) or at least get some type of pass to bypass long lines and have some type of photo component (similar to Disney's Photopass) included in the price that includes, at minimum, the ride photos and any photos taken throughout the day.

Overall, I would say the VIP Experience is more than worth the cost difference you'd end up paying for all of the benefits you get for the price.  The experience and VIP access this tour provides at Universal Orlando Florida will spoil all of your future trips and there will be no other way you'd want to experience a theme park again, so tread carefully!  

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I change or modify my reservation?

Complete Guide to the Universal Studios VIP Experience

This article is your complete guide to the Universal VIP Experience! We are going to cover everything about the Universal Studios Orlando VIP tour and of course the Universal Studios VIP pass in Hollywood. There are some major benefits to the Universal VIP pass which include front-of-the-line access to all of the major shows and rides, free meals, free parking, and your tour guide for the day. We have done the Universal Studios VIP, and have a lot of good things to say, as well as downsides for the extra cost.

We hope you find this post helpful! Our goal at The Park Prodigy has always been to help you save time and money on your next Universal Orlando vacation!  If you are planning a trip to Universal Orlando be sure to check out the latest deals on Universal Orlando vacation packages and our discounted Universal Orlando tickets which include EARLY PARK ADMISSION to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!

SPECIAL NOTE: If you’re looking for the best time to visit Universal Orlando be sure to check out our Universal Crowd Calendar!

 Universal Crowd Calendar

What Are The Universal VIP Tours?

The Universal VIP tour offers an unparalleled experience for guests. This tour is guided by an expert through the park’s top attractions and shows, and is available at both Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood! This exclusive experience includes significant perks like the Universal Express Pass , allowing you to bypass lines at most attractions. The tour is offered in both private and non-private formats and provides the flexibility to customize your visit. Whether you enjoy the Universal Studios Orlando VIP experience or the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP tour, you’re guaranteed priority access, expert insights, and a memorable, comprehensive way to enjoy Universal Studios, making every moment unforgettable!

How Long Does the Universal VIP Tour Last?

• 5 – 7 hours

The duration of the Universal VIP tours varies between 5-7 hours, depending on the type of tour package you choose. The Universal Orlando VIP tour typically spans 6-7 hours, while its counterpart, the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP tour, usually lasts between 5-6 hours.

How Early Should You Arrive for Your Universal VIP Tour?

• 45 – 60 minutes before the tour begins

One of the most useful tips and tricks we can provide to get the most out of your Universal Orlando VIP tour is to arrive at least 45-60 minutes before your tour even begins. One of the main reasons is it will take you some time to get through security at Universal. And once you do arrive at the park gates, your group will still have to check in to your VIP experience. We also enjoyed getting to meet with our Universal VIP tour guide and coming up with a game plan for how the entire group would prefer to tackle the parks.

Related Post: Complete Guide to Harry Potter Orlando Vs California 

Universal Orlando VIP Experience Express Pass

The Universal VIP experience provides guests with front-of-the-line access to both of the main Universal Orlando parks. Out of the many perks that the Universal Orlando VIP ticket also includes, the free Universal Express Pass ticket is our favorite one! The second biggest pro to the VIP experiences at Universal Studios Orlando is that they include the two most popular rides in Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and the VelociCoaster.

It’s important to point this out as although both of these rides are included with early park admission, they are not included with the Universal Orlando express pass ticket.

Does Universal VIP include Hagrid’s?

• Yes, all VIP experience Universal offers front-of-the-line access to every ride and attraction within the theme parks, including Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure!

The significance of this feature cannot be overstated, especially considering that this ride is not covered by the standard Universal Orlando Express Pass. So when you decide to go for Universal Studios VIP tickets, you’re gaining an advantage that goes beyond the usual benefits!

Related Post: Complete Guide to Universal Studios Orlando Shows

Universal Orlando Non-Private VIP Tour Overview

You can purchase tickets for up to six guests for the Universal Orlando non-private VIP experience. Then you will be combined with other parties to form a group of up to twelve people for the day’s adventures. The non-private Universal Orlando VIP tour typically begins at 11:00 AM each morning and typically lasts between five and seven hours. We will also say that even though guests follow the Universal tour guide lead on average they are guaranteed to get an average of ten rides.

One key distinction between the non-private and private Universal Orlando VIP experience is the role of the tour guide in selecting the day’s attractions. While the guide will make the final decisions, they typically conduct a group poll to gauge everyone’s interests. Given this, we strongly recommend engaging in a discussion with the other members of your non-private VIP experience Universal Orlando tour before it starts! This will allow you to align your ride preferences and ensure a more enjoyable experience for everyone.

What is Included in the Universal Orlando Non-Private VIP Tour?

• Free Valet Parking
• Front-of-the-line access to Universal Orlando shows and rides
• Backstage tour and knowledge from your tour guide
• Universal Express pass for after
• Complimentary breakfast and lunch

Does the Universal Orlando VIP Experience Cost?

Another common question we receive is, how much is the Universal Orlando non-private VIP tour?  The Universal Orlando non-private VIP tour for 2 parks over 1 day starts at  $189.00 per person plus sales tax. It’s also important to note that a valid Universal Orlando park-to-park admission ticket is required as well to participate in the Universal Orlando VIP tour.

Related Post: Complete Guide to the Lockers at Universal Orlando

Private Universal Orlando VIP Tour Overview

This option is mandatory for groups of seven or more who are interested in upgrading to the Universal Orlando VIP experience. The most significant difference between private and non-private VIP tours lies in the level of control you have over your itinerary. In a private VIP tour, the guests have the final say on which attractions they’ll visit during the eight-hour tour.

This level of customization can be a game-changer. For instance, if your private tour group is enamored with H agrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure or the VelociCoaster , you have the freedom to ride these attractions as many times as you’d like. This makes the VIP experience uniquely tailored to your group’s preferences.

As for the Universal Private VIP Experience cost , it’s worth noting that while this option may come at a premium, the personalized nature of the tour often makes it a value-added choice for larger groups or those seeking a bespoke experience at VIP Universal Studios .

Overall the private Universal Orlando includes the same private Universal tour guide to bring guests to the front of the line on all shows and attractions. It also includes free valet parking, a Universal express pass for after the tour, and two full-service meal vouchers which can be used inside the theme parks or at CityWalk. Non-private VIP tours also come with a 3-day Universal Orlando photo pass. 

What is included in the Universal Orlando Private VIP tour?

• Front-of-the-line access to Universal Orlando shows and rides which you select
• Universal express pass for after
• Complimentary breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• 3-day Universal Orlando photo pass
• Additional discounts on food and merchandise

Private VIP tour Universal Orlando Cost?

So, what is the Universal private VIP tour cost? The Universal Studios private VIP tour costs start at $3,099 for the two park-a-day private VIP experience for up to five guests, and additional guests will start at $375 per person each. The private VIP tours at Universal Orlando can accommodate up to ten guests. It’s also important to note that these are the starting costs and the final price can fluctuate based on the time of year that you are visiting.

Related post:  Complete Guide to All Universal CityWalk Stores

Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Tour 2024

Now, let’s shift our focus from Florida to California and address the question: What is the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP pass ? Much like its Orlando counterpart, the Universal Hollywood VIP ticket represents the pinnacle of exclusivity, offering front-of-the-line access and behind-the-scenes experiences at Universal Studios Hollywood.

The VIP offerings at Universal Studios Hollywood come in two flavors: the non-private VIP tour and the Universal Hollywood private VIP experience. Both options provide an elevated way to explore the park, but they cater to different needs and group sizes.

The non-private option is similar to the Orlando guided tours , where you join a group of up to twelve people and follow a pre-determined itinerary set by your tour guide. On the other hand, the private VIP experience is more akin to Orlando private tours , offering a customizable agenda that you and your group dictate.

If you’re considering the Hollywood option, you might be interested in looking up a VIP experience Universal Studios Hollywood review to get a sense of what past guests have thought of their experience. For those who are still weighing the pros and cons between the two coasts, comparing this with a private tour from Universal Orlando could provide valuable insights into which experience might be the best fit for you.

What are the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP tours?

• Non-private Universal Hollywood VIP tour
• Private Universal Studios Hollywood VIP tour

Related post: Discount Universal Hollywood Tickets

 Universal Studios Hollywood Non-Private VIP Tour

So, what is the Non-private VIP tour at Universal Studios Hollywood? The non-private VIP tour at Universal Studios Hollywood is a limited-capacity experience with up to eighteen guests per VIP tour. It will provide guests with a backstage tour of the famous Universal Hollywood backlot, free parking, an unlimited Universal Hollywood express pass with priority seating for select shows, light snacks and refreshments in the morning, and a gourmet meal for lunch.

What’s included with the Non-private Universal Hollywood VIP Tour?

• Backstage tour of the famous Universal Hollywood backlot
• Free parking
• Unlimited Universal Hollywood Express Pass
• Snacks and gourmet lunch

How much does the Universal Hollywood Non-private VIP tour cost?

Now that we have gone over the details, how much does the Universal Hollywood VIP tour cost? The Universal Studios Hollywood VIP tours start at $379 per person and each group can accommodate up to eighteen people. We would say one of the biggest differences between the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP and the Orlando VIP tour is with Hollywood the cost of admission is included in the purchase price.

Related post:  The Complete Guide to Harry Potter World: Universal Orlando vs Hollywood

Private Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Tour

Okay, now that we have covered the non-private you might be wondering what is the private Universal Studios Hollywood VIP tour. And, the private VIP tour at Universal Studios Hollywood includes guests a backstage tour of the famous Universal Hollywood backlot, free parking, an unlimited Universal Hollywood express pass with priority seating for select shows, light snacks and refreshments in the morning, and a gourmet meal for lunch. However, the biggest difference is it will only be for members of your group, and you will not be paired with any of the groups that day.

How long is the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP tour?

Another common question we receive is, how long is the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP tour?  As a general rule of thumb, the Universal Studios Hollywood VIP tour is approximately 6 hours, however, it is important to note that guests can stay in the park until closing to take advantage of their unlimited Universal Hollywood express pass.

Related post:  Complete Guide on Celebrating a Universal Studios Orlando Birthday

Is the Universal VIP Tour Worth it?

One of the most frequently asked questions we encounter is: Is the Universal Studios VIP tour worth it? As a general guideline, if your goal is to maximize your time and experiences, the Universal VIP tour is often well worth the investment. This is particularly true if you’re already considering an upgrade to include the Universal Express Pass ticket.

The reason for this is quite compelling. In the case of Universal Orlando, three major rides are not covered by the standard Express Pass but are included in the VIP tour Universal . This offers families a significant level of flexibility. You won’t need to worry about arriving for early park admission, which can sometimes be as early as 7:00 AM, to benefit from shorter wait times at the most popular attractions.

So, when considering a tour of Universal Studios Orlando, the VIP option provides a comprehensive and convenient way to experience the park. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned theme park veteran, the Universal Studios Orlando VIP and Orlando VIP experiences offer a premium, hassle-free way to enjoy all that Universal has to offer.

From a budgeting standpoint families will also be surprised to learn that the non-private VIP tours can make sense when you add up all of the extra benefits. We believe the fact that an unlimited Universal express pass is included with your Universal VIP ticket is huge as it will allow you to get onto so many more rides within your day. We also find that the Universal express pass is typically 60-70% of the cost of the non-private VIP tour anyway. So once you add the free valet parking and meals to your budget it might not be that much more to upgrade to the Universal VIP tour.

Related post:  Guide to the Universal Hogwarts Express

Universal VIP Tour FAQ

Does the Universal VIP tour include VelociCoaster?

As a general rule of thumb, the Universal Orlando VIP tour does include the VelociCoaster. It’s important to note that the VelociCoaster is not included with the Universal Express pass so you will be sure to want to ride this attraction during your tour throughout the day.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Universal Orlando?

Our   Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar  is the best tool to help you get the most out of your time in the parks. We breakdown the park crowds, park hours of operation, ticket prices by day, and average temperature.

Are You Ready to Plan Your Next Universal Orlando Trip?

If you’re ready to plan your trip to  Universal Studios,  be sure to check out  Universal Orlando Tickets! Not only will you save money vs buying direct, but all of our Universal Orlando tickets come with some amazing benefits that can help save you up to three hours in the parks!

And to stay up to date on everything going on inside the theme parks be sure to check out our partners at  Themeparktoday.com!

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Unlock more magic: 16 Universal Orlando secrets to know before your next trip

As a child, I had three goals during our family theme park trips — ride as many roller coasters, hug as many characters and eat as much ice cream as humanly possible. In all my (sugar) rushing around, I was missing out on a lot of the details and secrets that make theme parks so special.

The park that offers more of those details than any other, in my humble opinion, is Universal Orlando Resort . Now that I'm a bit older (and slower), I relish the opportunity to explore the parks and uncover the Easter eggs, little-known experiences and magic moments hidden in plain sight.

I'm not the best at keeping secrets, so I am going to share my favorites with you so that you can enjoy them during your next visit.

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

Universal Studios Florida secrets

Take a free behind-the-scenes tours.

Unlike the VIP tours , you won't find these tours on Universal's website or in any guidebook, but there are a few select attractions where you can get a behind-the-scenes tour from a Universal team member upon request.

On a recent visit, I asked for the "Immigration Tour" at the entrance to Men In Black Alien Attack. Unfortunately, nobody was available to give the tour during this visit — but the team member said it never hurts to ask and if you get a "no" at the entrance, try again at the unload area after you ride.

During the tour, a team member will escort you to an immigration room that looks straight out of the MIB films. You can take photos and get a close-up look at the aliens working the front desk. After your tour, the team member will typically escort you to the front of the line so you can get right on the ride.

I've heard of other Universal visitors having success getting a "backstage tour" on Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon, Revenge of the Mummy, The Incredible Hulk Coaster, Skull Island: Reign of Kong and Jurassic World: VelociCoaster.

While the tours may not be available during your visit, it's always worth asking — especially when the park isn't too busy.

Rock to secret tracks on Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit

Coasters don't usually have much interactivity, but on Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, you get to choose the soundtrack for your ride. After you are secured in the ride vehicle, you'll see a screen on the lap bar with a selection of songs you can listen to during your ride. But, there's actually a separate list of hidden tracks you can access if you know the secret.

Related: How to use points to save money at Universal Orlando

Instead of choosing a music genre as instructed, hold your finger down on the Rip Ride Rockit logo for about 10 seconds and you'll be prompted to enter a 3-digit code that corresponds to a song. Theme park news site Touring Plans has a full list of songs and their corresponding codes so you can rock while you roll.

If you see a pay phone, pick it up

This tip applies to all of Universal Orlando's parks, not just Universal Studios Florida. There are a handful of pay phones around the park that are silently begging for you to pick them up and see who is on the other end.

My son tried one out in the Simpsons area of Universal Studios Florida next to Cletus's Chicken Shack. He picked it up when it rang and, from what I can gather, a girl told him she lost her purse, but her phone number was on a piece of paper in the purse and if he found it and saw any cute boys, please give them her number.

There's also a message waiting for you at the phone outside of The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man in Islands of Adventure.

The final one is in the red phone booth in the London area of Universal Studios Florida. If you dial 62442 (MAGIC) from the black rotary phone in the booth, you'll hear a "wizarding" message from the Ministry of Magic.

Discover real theme park props

The "prop shop" sign outside this Williams of Hollywood store in the Hollywood section of the park is not just a clever name. Inside the shop, you'll find real props and memorabilia from Universal Orlando attractions, shows and special events.

Related: Is Universal's Express Pass worth it? TPG tested how much time it really saves you in line

During my last visit, I saw 3D glasses and shields from the defunct Shrek 4D attraction and facades from last year's limited-time holiday-themed tribute store . There's also a large selection of jewelry, costumes and accessories that have been used by in-park performers and, yes, I do plan to purchase a few pieces for my own closet.

Relive the Jaws ride

Jaws opened in 1990 along with the rest of Universal Studios. The ride was surrounded by a replica of Amity Island that looked much like the backdrop for Steven Spielberg's 1975 thriller.

The entire Amity Island area, including the Jaws ride, closed in 2012 to make way for the Diagon Alley section of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter . Though the Jaws ride is long gone, references to the famed shark surround the area near The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

The record store facade outside the entrance to Diagon Alley has a copy of "Here's to Swimming with Bow Legged Women" by The Quint Trio displayed in the front window, a nod to shark hunter Quint's toast with Chief Brody in the film.

In The Wizarding World of Harry Potter's Knockturn Alley, if you use your interactive wand to cast a spell on the collection of shrunken heads, they will occasionally sing "Show Me the Way to Go Home," a song that was featured in the "Jaws" film.

Islands of Adventure secrets

Beware of the fountain that 'spits' knowledge

At Islands of Adventure, the Lost Continent is based on ancient myths from around the globe. Within Sinbad's Bazaar section of the land there's an innocent-looking mystic fountain carved from stone. If you approach the fountain, though, you'll find it's not quite as innocent as it looks.

According to legend, a mischievous water spirit inhabits the fountain and enjoys engaging in playful banter with guests. Walk up and say hi next time you visit, but I must warn you that you may get wet. It's called a mischievous water spirit for a reason.

Spot Stan Lee on The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man ride

Stan Lee, the Marvel comics founder and creator of dozens of comic book characters, cameoed in many Marvel films before his death in 2018 at the age of 95.

Today, he lives on through his characters and his cameos, including multiple appearances in The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man attraction in Marvel Super Hero Island. He can be seen four times during the ride.

You can first spot him driving a truck that almost crashes into your vehicle and he makes a few more cameos in the ride's final scene after you (spoiler alert) save the day.

Learn the backstory to The Incredible Hulk Coaster's broken track

The original version of Universal's The Incredible Hulk Coaster opened in 1999. It closed in 2015 for a major refurbishment and reopened in 2016 with a new storyline, paint job, trains and track sections. But not all of the old elements of the coaster were scrapped.

To enter the current ride, you pass under a large statue of The Incredible Hulk holding a roller coaster train car. He appears to be ripping it from a section of broken coaster track. That track is real track that was recycled from the previous iteration of the ride.

Skip the line with a certificate for meeting thrill ride height requirements

This next secret starts off sad, but I promise it has a happy ending. During a 2021 visit to Universal, my son was just a hair too short to ride The Incredible Hulk Coaster. He was devastated, but they gave him a certificate that would allow him to head directly to the front of the line once he reached the required minimum height of 54 inches.

Related: 5 Reasons Universal Studios Is Better Than Disney World for Families

We saved the certificate and on our recent visit, he proudly displayed it to the ride attendant who confirmed he was tall enough and escorted us through the ride exit so we could get on the ride with no wait. They even congratulated him for his accomplishment.

Other thrill rides at Universal offer similar certificates, so if your child doesn't quite measure up, you can ask an attendant if one is available.

Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Hogsmeade secrets

Find a drain-dwelling visitor from the movies in the bathroom.

If you are familiar with the Harry Potter movies, Moaning Myrtle is a former student who was killed in the 1940s during her time at Hogwarts. Her spirit went on to haunt the second-floor girls' bathroom at the school.

If you happen to find yourself in the women's restrooms in Hogsmeade (they're located across from the Three Broomsticks restaurant), don't be surprised if you hear a familiar bathroom-haunting voice.

Send a postcard with a Hogsmeade postmark

If you felt bad leaving your muggle friends behind when you matriculated to Hogwarts, you can send them a postcard with an official Hogsmeade postmark.

All you have to do is visit the Owl Post, purchase your postcards and stamps, pen a few kind words and add the send-to address and a team member will stamp it with a Hogsmeade postmark.

When your postcard is ready to go, drop it in the box at the outdoor Owl Post station and an owl will ensure it arrives safely at its destination.

Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Diagon Alley secrets

Follow the winding paths of knockturn alley ... and learn dark magic secrets.

I'm a bit embarrassed to admit that I didn't immediately know Knockturn Alley existed in the theme park version of Harry Potter. It was my second or third visit to Diagon Alley before I peered down the dark, foreboding walkway to discover an expansive (but still dark and foreboding) replica of Knockturn Alley.

Once inside, you can perform wand spells, peruse Dark Arts artifacts in Borgin and Burkes and indulge your Slytherin side.

Observe the Leaky Cauldron that actually leaks

The Leaky Cauldron is a pub and inn that made multiple appearances in the Harry Potter books and films. It was a popular spot for witches and wizards, including Harry himself.

Inside, the Universal Orlando location serves traditional British fare, but if you look above the entrance before stepping inside, you'll see a wrought-iron sign with a witch stirring a cauldron.

There is a small crack in the cauldron and, if you watch for a few seconds, you'll see that water is actually leaking from the cracked cauldron. I love a restaurant that lives up to its name.

Uncover secret wand spell spots that aren't on the map

When you purchase an interactive wand at Universal (you can get them inside The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, in some Universal hotels and in most Universal gift shops), there is a small, intricately drawn map inside the wand's box. You can use the map to help you find the interactive wand spots in both Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley, but there are a few secret spells not noted on the map.

The easiest way to uncover the secret wand spots is to ask a team member (aka friendly Wizarding World witch or wizard) — but a few spots to try are the parchment in the Scribbulus window and the pot inside the window at Slug and Jiggers.

You can find a few more by viewing your map under the black lights in Knockturn Alley. It may be too dark to see them without the help of your magical map.

Pass through the wall at platform 9 3/4 just like Harry Potter

I don't recommend testing your wizard skills by attempting to run through any brick wall you come across, but if you try it in the queue for the Hogwarts Express train that travels from the London area of Universal Studios Florida to Hogsmeade, you might find you are a real wizard after all.

When you reach the spot in the queue with a luggage rack between the signage for platforms 9 and 10, you can watch travelers pass through the wall to platform 9 3/4. You don't actually pass through the wall, of course — a well-placed piece of glass in the luggage rack reflects a fake brick wall that makes it appear as if you are doing so. This "Pepper's ghost" effect is a simple trick that's been used for more than 100 years.

Listen to compliments (or a critique) from a talking mirror

When you are admiring yourself in the mirror with the robe you've just tried on at Madam Malkin's Robes for All Occasions, don't be surprised if the mirror talks back to you.

Like so many things in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, this mirror is magical ... and she isn't afraid to speak her mind. I've been lucky enough to have her compliment my taste in robes, but she won't hold back if she thinks you might look better in a different style.

Bottom line

You don't have to do and see every single one of these secrets on your next visit, but peppering a few of them into your trips will make your visits that much more memorable — especially when you come away as the in-the-know hero of your vacation.

Secure tickets with a deposit of £25 per ticket or a hotel booking with a £100 deposit. The final balance must be paid 6 weeks before your holiday.

Take your Universal Orlando holiday to the next level with these additional tickets and experiences.

Universal Orlando VIP Experience Ticket

Enjoy exclusive backstage access, learn insider information and enjoy the parks' most amazing rides and attractions without waiting in line. Separate theme park admission is required, and anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Secrets of Universal Orlando: Reign of Kong Temple Tour

Seth Kubersky

You may be familiar with the rides and shows at Universal Orlando, but did you know that the resort offers some secret attractions that aren’t listed on any guidemap? We’re going to be taking a look at some of Universal’s hidden gems, starting with one of our favorite free behind-the-scenes experiences in the parks: the Skull Island: Reign of Kong Temple Tour at Islands of Adventure!

Currently, all theme parks, cruise lines, and other attractions are closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We at The Unofficial Guides hope all our readers and their loved ones, as well as all attraction employees, remain healthy and safe. Without intending to trivialize the current crisis, we will continue to post positive stories about the parks, in hopes of bringing their magic into your home as a welcome distraction during these trying times. For the latest updates, read our guide to cornoavirus and the theme parks . 

If you want to feel like a VIP but can’t afford the fare, Universal generously offers unpublicized free backstage tours at several attractions to any guest who inquires (subject to staff availability). Tours are available at Men in Black Alien Attack, Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon, and Revenge of the Mummy at Universal Studios Florida, as well as at The Incredible Hulk Coaster, Jurassic Park Discovery Center, and Skull Island: Reign of Kong at Islands of Adventure.

At Reign of Kong, this free experience is referred to as a “Temple Tour.” If you want to take a Temple Tour, ask the team member greeting guests outside the entrance of the ride if a member of the expedition team is free. Availability of the tour varies with staffing and is not guaranteed. They are conducted on request and don’t depart on any set schedule, but your best bet is to ask during mid-morning and late afternoon.

During my Temple Tour, I was lucky enough to be guided by Keith, an experienced Kong team member who led me through the attraction’s complete queue, providing technical details and pointing out hidden secrets along the way. Even if you were to walk the whole standby line alone, you’d be unlikely to catch all the details in the darkened corridors, and guests who use the single rider or Express entrances will miss them entirely.

Here are a few of the intriguing questions that are answered during a Reign of Kong Temple Tour:

• How do the ride’s autonomous trucks stay on track?
• What is the connection between the ride and Peter Jackson’s 2005 film?
• Where can you find an artifact from an extinct Universal Studios Florida favorite?
• Exactly how many skulls are in the queue, and what do they all have in common?
• What is the name of the animatronic worm near the boarding area?

At the end of the tour, I got to see this fact sheet, which provides even more fascinating details about the attraction:

Now, here is the best part: At the conclusion of the Temple Tour, if you are lucky, you’ll be able to climb aboard a safari truck without having to wait in the standby line!

Finally, if your little explorers are still just a little too short to take the trip to Skull Island, you should ask for one of these certificates, which entitles them to an expedited ride once they grow tall enough.

If you can’t wait to take a Skull Island: Reign of Kong Temple Tour in person, watch our POV video of the full experience:

For all there is to see and do at Universal Orlando, check out The Unofficial Guide to Universal Orlando . If you enjoyed this post, please subscribe to our YouTube channel and sign up for our newsletter here . Be sure to follow us on Twitter , Facebook , Instagram , and YouTube .

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Unofficial Guide to the Jurassic World VelociCoaster at Universal Orlando

Diagon Alley – The Highlights

A Bird’s-Eye View of Orlando’s Closed Theme Parks

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Universal Orlando Youth Programs

Youth programs.

Behind the Adventure*

Discover the Science and Technology of Universal's Islands of Adventure™ Learn how science is involved in creating the world's most technologically advanced theme park. Find out about real life applications of physics, technology, and general sciences that were used to design and build this state-of-the-art theme park. In this program, students will:

• Marvel at the technology used to make The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man ® so amazing.
• Take a look "under the hood" at how The Incredible Hulk Coaster ® launches.
• Learn the role literature plays within Universal's Islands of Adventure™.

Advance reservations are required. Tours are subject to availability and may change without notice. There is a 20-student minimum for each of these tours. Program Type: 3-hour facilitated tour of Universal Studios™ or Universal's Islands of Adventure™. Tours begins at 8:00am and 12:30pm. *Spanish-Language Tours available. Space is limited and fills quickly so book your tour soon. Subject to change. Download Order Form

Special FX*

Learn the Secrets of Movie Making at Universal Studios™ Find out how the arts and sciences are used to create some of the most spectacular special effects in motion picture history - and what it took to re-create those effects in some of Universal Studios' most popular attractions. In this hands-on, interactive experience, students will:

• Uncover secrets of set design and construction at Revenge of the Mummy™.
• Learn how make-up effects are created at Universal Orlando's Horror Make-Up Show.
• Get backstage access to our soundstages and production facilities.

Advance reservations are required. Tours are subject to availability and may change without notice. There is a 20-student minimum for each of these tours. Program Type: 3-hour facilitated tour of Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure. Tours begins at 8:00am and 12:30pm. *Spanish-Language Tours available. Space is limited and fills quickly so book your tour soon. Subject to change. Download Order Form

School of Rock

Tour the Hard Rock Hotel ® and learn what it takes to meet the challenges of daily operation while remaining a profitable business. Find out what goes on behind the scenes while discovering hospitality industry career opportunities. Advance reservations are required. Tours are subject to availability and may change without notice. Program Type: 3-hour facilitated tour of Universal Studios™ or Islands of Adventure™. Tours begin at 8am. Download Order Form

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Does Universal Studios Florida have a studio tour like Hollywood?

Casie Shimansky | January 11, 2019 January 11, 2019

One of the age-old questions for theme parkers who are familiar with both coasts (or multiple global locations) is, “Does  this park  have what that park  also has?”

I have to admit, I’m guilty of the same question, and while I know the parks do their best to keep all locations just different enough to entice us on the journey to check them all off our theme-park passport, I still can’t help but be fascinated by where the similarities and differences lie.

So, on that note, let’s go ahead and tackle a particular form of this question that we still routinely receive here at OI HQ…

Does Universal Orlando have a studio tour like Universal Studios Hollywood?

First, a little bit on the world-famous Universal Studio Tour : it’s the flagship attraction over at Universal’s very first theme park, Universal Studios Hollywood (which is located in – you guessed it! – Los Angeles, California), that takes about 60 minutes to complete. Boarding that tram is a signature experience, one that takes you into a working movie studio that Steven Speilberg helped to build – the 13 city blocks located on just four acres of the historic backlot even have various film shoots taking place at any given time!

Comedian Jimmy Fallon hosts by way of video and takes you through different clips and themed encounters on your tour: you’ll experience a flash flood, Earthquake: The Big One, wreckage of the Boeing 747 from Spielberg’s  War of the Worlds , and Amity Island’s most famous finned resident – along with meeting King Kong face-to-face (a confrontation which was created by Peter Jackson), checking in to the Bates Motel, getting backlot peeks of the largest motion picture and TV studio in the world, and, if all that wasn’t enough, being taken on the ride of a lifetime with the Fast & Furious family.

If you’re asking this Orlando native, the Studio Tour sounds like a wonderful, nostalgic treat of all our favorite rides from Universal Orlando’s past blended wonderfully with some attractions that we currently do have on the East Coast (indeed, both Skull Island: Reign of Kong and our version of Fast & Furious – Supercharged come directly from the Tour, and I guess you could even argue that Race through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon also owes some debt to our park’s Hollywood counterpart). I won’t lie – the description alone for the Backlot Tour makes me want to book tickets out west to go hug my favorite shark right now.

All of which may give the answer to our overarching question away, but let’s officially answer it, anyway: Universal Orlando Resort (sadly) does not have a Studio Tour experience like Universal Studios Hollywood does.

There are two  but s to this, however. Universal Studios Florida did, for a short period of time, feature a mini-tram tour (called the Production Tour) that even went through a prop graveyard (called the Boneyard) on its travel through the park, although this ended all the way back in 1995. (Want to read all about it? Check out our in-depth retrospective .) And you behind-the-scenes fans aren’t completely out of luck – there are still a few ways to discover some movie magic at Universal Orlando.

Live shows at Universal Orlando

Live productions like  Animal Actors on Location  and the  Horror Make-Up Show  provide a glimpse of how animals and makeup artists work in the entertainment industry to bring stories to life. These shows are great for kids and adults alike and often leave me feeling inspired by all the work that goes into movies and television – not to mention, you might be able to meet the very famous Frank the Pug at Animal Actors!

These may be just small doses of Universal Studios Hollywood’s filmmaking focus, but I still think they’re must-dos for any visiting family, movie buffs or not.

Behind-the-scenes tours

Universal offers some excellent VIP and Behind the Scenes tours throughout the year, like the VIP Experience (which grants you a private escort throughout the parks) and Unmasking the Horror during Halloween Horror Nights  (lights-on tours through the various haunted houses). Unmasking the Horror, in particular, comes highly regarded – it’s a once-in-a-lifetime daytime look at how Universal Orlando’s Art & Design team transforms the biggest names in horror into haunt experiences. But both are great ways to experience Universal Orlando in an entirely new way!

Also, a number of individual attractions feature their own guided tours, including some behind-the-scenes sections. Although these consist of Revenge of the Mummy , Skull Island, and Jimmy Fallon, my personal fave is at Men in Black: Alien Attack – called the Immigration Tour, it’s a great way to see the agents’ operations room in action, including an out-of-this-world look at where technicians Idikiukup and Bob work. You’ll likely be able to take some fun photos here and get a chance to see the tabloids and newspapers that dot the queue up close and personal. (Just talk to a team member outside any of these rides, and, if it’s a slower day at the park, someone will come out to start your tour.)

Hidden Easter eggs

There are also some great hidden Easter eggs throughout Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure that pay homage to your favorite films, television shows, and comics. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for these entertainment secrets!

Have any more burning questions about Universal Orlando? Ask them in our  OI Community on Facebook, where 50,000+ other vacation-planners will be happy to answer them!

And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on Facebook , Twitter , and Instagram for the latest news and tips at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando destinations.

What are your favorite ways to get those “behind the scenes” vibes at Universal Orlando? Let us know in the comments below!

Related posts:

• Universal Studios Hollywood vs. Universal Studios Florida: An Orlando fan travels to where it all began
• Universal Studios Florida: The transformation from a working studio to a traditional theme park
• Let’s tour 1990’s Universal Studios Florida
• Jimmy Fallon gets private tour of Race Through New York at Universal Studios Florida

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Top 5 buzzworthy adult drinks at universal orlando, about casie shimansky.

Casie {kay-cee; KC} Shimansky is an award-winning social media manager and recognized photographer. Originally from New Jersey, she grew up in the theme parks, moved to Orlando with her family in 1993, and met her now-husband at Universal Orlando while working at Men in Black: Alien Attack in 2005. Dog Mom to two German Shorthaired Pointers, she is also a lover of pizza and Halloween and is a fierce advocate for Children's Cancer Research, having gone BALD just two days after getting married. Casie raised over $26k in 2018 alone for the cause.

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