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Global Munchkins

Travel + Global Inspired Lifestyle

April 4, 2024

29 Incredible Universal Orlando Tips [Save Money & Time]

We just returned from a jam-packed whirlwind trip to Universal Orlando and it was absolutely incredible!!! One of the reasons the trip went so smoothly is because we have visited Orlando more times than I can count and over the years we have collected a lot of Unversal Orlando tips & tricks to help us avoid crowds, save money and have fun.

So, today I am sharing those secrets with YOU!

Read on to learn our best Universal Orlando Tips and Tricks for 2024. We love these parks as much as Disney World , if not more. This is truly a world-class resort.

Universal Orlando Tips

1. Stay on Property at one of these 3 Resorts! My Favorite Universal Secret

This is one of the best tips for visiting Universal Orlando (in fact, I have a whole post about it ) I have because staying on property makes all the difference in the world and is worth EVERY penny.

Let me explain. At first glance, you might notice that you can find cheaper hotels near the Universal Resort in Orlando. But, if you want Express passes, stay at these three resorts, because they come for FREE!

The three resorts on property ( Loews Portofino Bay Hotel and Royal Pacific Resort and the Hard Rock Hotel specifically) include FREE Universal Express Passes for each hotel guest (which gives you front of the line access to the most popular rides in the parks), early park admission, priority seating at many restaurants in City Walk and FREE transportation around the resort.

The Universal Express Passes alone would cost you a minimum of $89.99 per person and can go up to $379. With 4 guests in a room you can save $360 – $1200 per day in express passes

So, the $100 you are saving a night on your room is NOT worth it!

Staying on property at Universal Studios Florida also means you can take advantage of the beautiful walkways and boat rides available to hotel guests. It’s a convenient way to get around!

****Pro Tip**** Book your Universal Vacation with a Travel Agent Like Best Day Ever Vacations! They offer the same prices as booking direct but have extra incentives to make your trip even better!

2. Use a Travel Agent knowledgeable about Universal Orlando

When I first used to travel, we always booked everything ourselves, than I found out that a lot of travel agents work don’t charge a thing.

There is a lot to figure out when it comes to planning a Universal trip:

• How to get to the parks from the airport
• What are Express Passes
• How to travel from Park to Park
• Which hotels to stay at
• Where should you have dinner?
• Is the dining plan worth it?
• What about character breakfasts?

It’s honestly endless.

We reached out to Best Day Ever Vacations (they are seriously the best!) for our Disney Vacation and they did such an amazing job we asked if they handled Universal Orlando. Sure enough, they have Universal Orlando specialists who know everything about the parks, hotels, city walk and more. It made planning a vacation so much more fun! Pretty much 90% of the tips I have are from them.

3. Arrive Early & Leave Late

Another great tip for Universal Orlando is to take advantage of the early park entrance in the morning offered solely to guests staying on property.

But, even if you are not staying on property you will want to plan on arriving prior to the park opening hours and that is because they begin to allow guests to enter the parks early (up to a certain point) before the park officially opens.

If you are one of the folks who enter early you will be able to breeze through several wait times on the most popular attractions before the crowds arrive.

That said you will also want to stay late. Both Universal Orlando Parks tend to die down around 4pm.

Guests who stay later enjoy much shorter wait times which is why we like to get in early, then take a midday pool break at the hotel and return to the parks around 3-4pm. An easy schedule when you are staying on property.

Take a Peek Inside the Parks by watching our YouTube Video below.

Give us a thumbs up & subscribe for more great family travel videos!

4. Book the Concierge Level as it may save you money

I have a lot of kiddos, so when we stay in a concierge room, it is worth it. This means complimentary breakfast for the entire crew, snacks to take in the park, and some appetizers when we get back, so a large dinner isn’t quite needed. It is so worth it!

5. Plan for 4 Days Minimum

Now that  Volcano Bay  has opened we decided to up our recommended minimum number of days to 4 instead of 3.

You will definitly want an added full day to check out Universal Orlando’s amazing new water park. Volcano Bay has some of the BEST water attractions & slides we have EVER experienced.

The park itself is immaculate, the food is wonderful, they have two lazy rivers (one is a thrilling experience), and the kids splash areas are the best we’ve ever seen!!

I believe that 4 days is enough to conquer Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, AND the NEW Volcano Bay Water Park. That is ‘IF’ you have the Universal Express Passes for the dry parks.

If you do not have the express passes then you will want at least 5 days at the parks to be able to hit all of the popular attractions.

But, again notice that you need one less night at a hotel when you have the Express Passes which are included in the price of your stay at the on-site properties that I mentioned above. Another reason why it is actually cheaper and much better to stay at one of the hotels on the property!

6. If you are going to buy Express Passes Consider the VIP TOUR because it might be cheaper and includes A LOT MORE!!!!

People don’t know this but the Universal Orlando VIP Tour is the best deal in town. You get to the front of the line on every ride (including the ones Express pass does not cover) + it includes breakfast, lunch and valet parking and even more! Check out the details here!

7. Dates to Visit to Avoid Crowds

Avoiding the crowds is one of my favorite Universal Orlando Tips. There are three times a year where I feel like you can count on avoiding large crowds at the Universal Orland Resort.

One is the entire month of September as everyone is back in school and either just visited over summer or is planning to visit over the holidays.

The second is visiting between Dec 3rd- 15th. The closer it gets to the school winter breaks the more the traffic picks up.

The 3rd Date is the one week after January through the first week of February. Everyone has visited from the holidays and the next holiday is not til Presidents day weekend.

But, visiting Universal during the holidays is extra spectacular! In Universal’s Islands of Adventure, you can see The Grinch musical show which is a wonderful performance.

And, in Universal Studios you can witness authentic balloons and floats from the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade! Plus, both parks are decked out with holiday lights too. It’s my favorite time of year to visit!

8. Use Child Swap

One way to breeze through the crowds when traveling with infants and toddlers is by utilizing the “child swap” program at Universal. The “child swap” allows families traveling with little ones to wait in the queue together once while allowing both adults a turn to ride.

How this Universal Orlando Tip works is one parent stays off the ride and waits in the designated “child swap room” with the child who is not tall enough to ride. While the rest of the family hops on the ride.

When they are finished the parents swap roles and the parent who initially stayed back is given a chance to ride without having to wait in line again. Instead, they simply walk to the front of the line in the “child swap” designated area.

*Pro-Tip-Another added benefit of using the “child swap” is the second parent can take up to 3 guests with them. So, several people in the family get to ride twice!

9. Single Rider

Guests 10 years or older, also have the option of a shorter wait by being a “single rider”. Since most people ride in groups of two or more, if there is an extra spot available the attendants will ask for a single rider and you’ll be able to skip ahead in the line.

At some queues, there is even a special line reserved just for “single riders”.

10. How to Make the Most of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando

Tip #1 : Avoid the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in the AM!

I know this sounds contradictory to every other thing you might read BUT trust me. The first place every person heads to is the Harry Potter area in each of the parks making both of these lands complete madhouses in the morning… even for guests with early entry.

Unless you are going to be one of the first people in the park and you are going to run straight to one of the Harry Potter rides forget it.

You will have much better luck heading into these lands around 4 pm when everyone else in the park has already ‘been there, done that’.

Check out the photo above. That is my kids walking into Hogsmeade during early park entry on a non-holiday visit. Can you see the crowds in there- INSANE!!! I mean for good reason of course.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter (both Hogsmeade & Diagon Alley) are the MOST INCREDIBLE themed lands I have ever visited.

Absolutely, spectacular in so many ways. However, if you can be smart and avoid the crowds I promise the experience will be even that much better.

11. Take Time to Really Explore the Harry Potter Lands

As I just mentioned, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is absolutely amazing. And, I am not just talking about the main attractions. I urge you to really explore these lands as there are magical elements hidden all around you.

If you buy an interactive wand at Ollivander’s you can actually cast spells around Diagon Alley and make magic happen right before your eyes!

On our recent visit to Universal Orlando we waited in line at Ollivander’s for the Wand Chooses the Wizard  experience and Shea got picked!!! Check out his face in our YouTube video here .

*Pro Tip-   You can also ask the goblin in the Money Exchange any question and he will respond. Ask him about the dragon in Gringotts next time you visit 😉

Head inside the stores in Diagon Alley & Hogsmeade !

Our kids got a kick out of the crazy jelly bean flavors (some are actually really gross) and the chocolate frogs.

*Pro Tip- grab your Harry Potter costume supplies before leaving home. Capes at the park are really pricey. Find ones much cheaper on Amazon here.

12. Try a Butter Beer + Secret Menu

You can’t visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter without getting your kids a Butter Beer. Who can blame them with that tasty marshmallow topping?

But, if you really want to impress your kids, head to The Three Broomsticks and Hog’s Head Pub and order a Pumpkin Fizz.

*Pro Tip- It won’t be on the menu because it is a secret item.

And, knowing that will make you the coolest parent alive!!

Don’t miss the Butter Beer Flavored Ice Cream at Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour, Fountain of Fair Fortune, and at select street vendors throughout Diagon Alley.

13. Take the train in between the parks

Don’t miss riding the Hogwarts Express between the parks. Not only is it a super convenient way to get around, but it is also one of my favorite Harry Potter experiences too!

I am not telling you why because I don’t want to spoil any surprises. You’ll just have to trust me on this one.

*Pro Tip- make sure to take the train from BOTH parks. The experiences are totally different.

14. Get a Coffin Full of Donuts to Start the Day

As I mentioned in our best things to do in Orlando Voodoo Doughnuts offers up one of the best fried creations in all of Orlando, at least that’s my opinion.

One of their six locations in all of the world is at Universal Citywalk in Orlando, meaning you won’t have many other opportunities to try one of these tasty and colorful pastries.

Trust me, these are not your average doughnuts. They are both extravagant in looks and in taste. You will find their shelves filled with raised yeast donuts, cake donuts, and specialty donuts of all kinds.

If you like peanut butter, you cannot miss out on the Old Dirty Bastard. Name aside, this doughnut is what dreams are made of. You can check out the full menu here!

And yes, like we said this involves a coffin. You can purchase a 3-foot wooden coffin filled with three We Pick ‘Em Voodoo Dozens.

It is a fun way to celebrate a special occasion or just do something unique while on vacation. Plus, you can never have too many doughnuts! 

15. Tips for Toddlers (height requirements)

We did notice that many of the rides had a 40-inch height requirement as our youngest is not quite that tall yet. But, that doesn’t mean there is not a ton of rides and shows available for smaller toddlers.

I recommend checking out Seuss Landing where multiple rides have lower height requirements, Shrek 4-D, Fievel’s Playground, Camp Jurassic, the Curious George Water area and a day in the Park with Barney- a live show and playground area. And, don’t forget to take your littles to hang out with the characters too!

Youngsters 34-inches tall can ride E.T. the ride which happens to be a favorite in our family. I was so sad when our CA park got rid of it and so I make sure we hop on it every time we visit the Orlando parks.

Once kids reach 36 inches tall they can test their thrill-seeking skills on Woody the Woodpecker’s Rollercoaster (above), Skull Island: Reign of Kong, Flight of Hippogriff & more.

Little ones who hit the 40-inch height requirement can ride the Seuss Trolley Train, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, the Simpson’s Ride (although it is a little frightening), Transformers, Spiderman, and more. And, once youngsters reach 42 inches tall they can also ride Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, Men in Black, Popeye and Bluto’s water ride, and Jurassic Park… The Ride just to name a few. Check out our experience on Jurassic Park below:

16. Buying souvenirs

It’s unavoidable your kids are going to want to take home a treasure to remind them of their incredible vacation at Universal. Be smart and use Universal Orlando’s package pick-up & free package delivery to on-site hotels.

Package pick-up sends your souvenir to the front of the park so you can pick it up on your way out versus lugging it around all day. If you are staying on-site they take it a step further and deliver it right to your hotel. Just one more reason staying on property is such a smart idea!

17. How to Save on Food… Dining Plans!

Universal offers several different dining plans that can help you save money and make life a little easier too. Choose from full service or quick service plans. With up to 100 dining locations to choose from inside both parks and in City Walk your family will have plenty of options to choose from.

The full-service plan includes two of our favorite restaurants at the Universal Resort- Mythos Restaurant and The Cowfish (yes sushi + burger fusion is a thing).

But, we do find the quick service plan a little easier on the pocketbook. View the plans, list of participating restaurants and pricing here .

Family Style- Louie’s Italian Restaurant

One of the munchkins’ favorite Universal Orlando tips is heading to the back of the park at Universal Studios for the BEST theme park pizza we’ve ever had. Feeding a large family at a theme park can cost an arm and a leg.

One way we save at Universal is by ordering a whole pizza pie from Louie’s Italian Restaurant. While a single slice will run you about $7 bucks, a whole pie so roughly $30 and comes with 8 slices.

*Pro Tip- Don’t forget ice water is always complimentary so drink up.

Cheap Shareable Treat- Lad Lard’s Pink Donut

Growing up The Simpson’s was one of those shows I would watch with my dad. Most jokes went right over my head but that didn’t stop me from laughing. Walking through the Simpson’s area brought back so many memories.

So, I was a complete sucker when my kids requested an enormous pink sprinkled donut from Lad Lard’s. Luckily, it was under $5 bucks and easily shareable! Don’t take our word for it check out this article from USA Today’s 10Best.

The Tacos at BumbleBee Man’s Taco Truck is a delicious, quick, and easy on-the-go lunch or snack too!

Just for fun… Moe’s Tavern

Not really a savings tip BUT something fun to do while in the Simpson’s area is to while in the Simpson’s area is to head to Moe’s tavern to try a Duff Beer. While you are there order the kids an alcohol-free, orange-flavored Flaming Moe. The dry ice makes it smoke and the kids will get a kick out of it!

18. If You are an annual passholder, turn your soda into a delicious slush.

If you are an annual passholder, there is a wonderful lounge to relax and cool off. The best part, you can buy a soda and turn it into a delicious slush.

19. Head to City Walk

Another Universal Orlando tip I have found that works well is to leave the parks and head into City Walk for lunch. Here you will find better tasting options in my opinion and a wider variety of eateries.

It may not save a lot of cash but at least you get better quality food for your money and at lunch its a ghost town so very little wait times too! 

I personally loved the Bread Box which serves delicious sandwiches, soups, and salads. It was a healthier option and the kids loved the bench swings  located at some of the booths.

The NBC Sports Grill & Brew is a favorite amongst the kiddos in our family. Who doesn’t love a working foosball dining table 😉

City Walk also has some fun photo opportunities and great shops and because it is so quiet during the afternoon you can get a bunch of fun shots.

*Pro Tip- if you stay at one of the hotels I mentioned previously your room key will also help you get priority seating at many of the restaurants in City Walk.

20. Skip dinner at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium

Wait what?? You read that right. Dinner here includes a ridiculous wait time and your room key does not grant you priority seating at this hot spot.

However, the specialty here is clearly dessert and you can skip the long wait and head right inside and order your tasty treats at the counter.

Make sure you try at least one of their INCREDIBLE Artisanal Milk Shakes. Hands down the BEST flavor is Salted Caramel Pretzel but Chocolate Peanut Butter comes in close for second.

* Check out my top 10 foods you have to try at Universal

21. Don’t Miss These Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions

You most likely know about all of the most popular attractions. But, there are a few things that most people are unaware of that we think are absolutely worth your time.

Live Raptor Photo Opportunity- I mean where else can you get a photo with a live raptor- ha! What makes this so incredibly fun is the employees are steadfast in the delivery of their character.

The kids were actually starting to question if the dino was going to be real. Check out the video:

Jurassic Play Area-  After you ride the Jurassic Park River Adventure, you can go to the Jurassic Park Discovery Center. Here you can relax in the air-conditioned room while kids check out all the cool dinosaurs. Make sure to wander over to the eggs. If you’re there when a baby dino breaks out of its shell, your kiddo might be lucky enough to name the newborn and get an official birth certificate!

Character Meet & Greet with Shrek & Donkey- who wouldn’t want to spend time with this hilarious duo. Make sure to check the guide for times so that you can hang out with these totally awesome and funny characters. Check out our experience below:

Fievel Playground- stop by this awesome play area to give the kids a chance to run wild. There is plenty for both little and big kids to do and it’s also a nice break for mom & dad. Liv loved playing in the ball pit and the older ones enjoyed the water slide and swinging from the giant rope.

Hello Kitty Shop – if you have young girls (or teens) they will LOVE the adorable Hello Kitty Shop located inside Universal Studios. They have every type of Hello Kitty product imaginable PLUS an adorable bakery/ candy shop too!

Free Coloring Station in Seuss Landing- little ones will love cooling down in the air conditioned stores in Seuss Landing. We found a coloring station in the store near the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride!

22. Take a photo of your park passes

If you lose your park passes it can be a pain, but if you take a picture they can easily reprint them 

23. Pack some Ponchos

It’s Central Florida, which means there is a good chance of rain. Also, there are some very wet rides. So, pack some ponchos and save yourself the exorbitant costs of paying for a poncho at the parks.

24. GET A BIRTHDAY BUTTON (READER SUGGESTION!)

Here is one of the comments that I thought was a great idea.

“If it’s someone’s birthday, get a birthday button. When I went with my sister, we got backdoor access to a couple of rides and they sang Happy Birthday to her over the intercom at Men in Black!” -Crystal

25. There are 2 Lazy Rivers at Volcano Bay and one is absolutely not Lazy!

If you decide to hit up Volcano Bay you will for sure find yourself in the Lazy River, however some people do not realize there are actually two rivers.

One nice and mellow river and one that is more of a fast paced rapid ride. Everyone in the fast paced river is required to wear a life vest as the water does move quite fast, but it is super fun!

26. Download the Universal app beforehand

You can then link your tickets and credit card to the app. When you are in the water park you can use their special Tapu Tapu Tapu to pay for items. The app also gives wait times for the 2 main parks.

27. Save Hundreds of Dollars by renting a Stroller from an offsite vendor!

The strollers at Universal are expensive and not very comfortable. Kingdom Strollers has been around for over 20 years and they will save you a ton of money plus they deliver the stroller to your hotel or Airbnb!

You simply place your order and then meet them at your hotel at one of their 5 daily meetup times and grab your stroller.

It couldn’t be any easier Check em out here! In fact now you can pick up your stroller at the Orlando Airport. It is pretty convenient

28. Universal Tips for Adults – Visit During Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras is one of the best times to visit the parks with or without kids, but especially without kids since Universal’s Mardi Gras events are going on.

You will enjoy, live concerts from top artists, amazing food, and plenty of celebratory drinks and parades. You can check out all the Mardi Gras details here.

29. Take the Hogwarts Express from Universal Studios and Disappear into the Wall!

Ever wanted to disappear into a brick wall like they do in Harry Potter. If you take the Hogwarts Express from Universal Studios to Islands of Adventure you will enjoy all the whimsy of Hogsmeade station including an illusion which makes it seem like you disappear into a brick wall (check it out in the video above). 

Map of Islands of Adventures

Universal Orlando Tips FAQ’s

How do i get the most out of universal studios.

Stay in an onsite hotel for FREE Express Passes Arrive Early Go to Harry Potter’s World later in the day Allow 45 Minutes for Parking & Security Use Rider Switch Pass if you have kids that are too small

How can I save money at Universal Studios Orlando?

Pre-Purchase Tickets from Discount Ticket Sites Like Undercover Tourist Bring your own water Get Free Express Passes by staying at an onsite hotel Get a whole Pizza for the Family at Louise’s Visit during the off season for the best deals

What rides to go on first at Universal Studios?

Hollywood Rip Rock it Transformers Mummy the Ride Harry Potter Escape from Gringots

Is Express Pass worth it at Universal?

It depends on how much time you have to spend at the parks. If you are short on time, yes! The cheapest way to get Express passes is staying at an onsite hotel. You get 5 for 2 days for 1 night at a hotel.

Pin for later- 29 Amazing Universal Orlando Tips

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Reader Interactions

November 30, 2016 at 12:46 pm

You definitely need inside tips when you visit places like this! It can make all the difference for a trip! Great share!

November 30, 2016 at 4:03 pm

The concierge level sounds like a game changer! Will try next time!

November 30, 2016 at 9:27 pm

I love posts like these! I have never spent time in Orlando but it’s on my list. Pinning this for when I get to cross it off because it will come in handy with planning. Thank you!

December 13, 2016 at 1:10 pm

So many awesome tips! We stayed on site on our last visit and it was totally worth it! I’ll definitely pay with my AMEX next time to get access to the lounge.

February 19, 2022 at 6:25 am

I must have missed the benefit of using AMEX. Can you please fill me in?

December 13, 2016 at 7:21 pm

Man! You really are an expert! Great tips lady.

December 14, 2016 at 6:22 pm

I had NO IDEA about these great tips. I especially like the Child Swap scheme and analyzing hotels for whether they include passes! Brilliant.

March 9, 2017 at 4:51 pm

This helped me out a lot! We plan on going to City Walk for lunch, because I *need* to try that shake at that Chocolate place. I don’t even care if the food is crap. I told my kids we’re going because Mommy needs a gigantic shake.

March 10, 2017 at 10:22 am

I love that about you. You totally deserve the milkshake taking the kids by yourself. You won’t need to worry about the food at all. That shake is a meal on it’s own anyways.

April 20, 2017 at 5:13 am

I love the am ex tip & staying on property perks! Had no idea! Also love the moes tavern!

July 14, 2017 at 3:45 pm

Very detailed post! I didn’t realize that you get express passes staying at the resort, great idea!

July 15, 2017 at 7:11 pm

Yes, and those express passes are EVERYTHING! Makes the park experience SOOO much more enjoyable.

July 15, 2017 at 4:56 am

We always stay at the resorts in Orlando. Even though it can be a little more expensive at times, it’s worth it to maximize on time. A lot of the resorts we’ve stayed at come with snacks twice a day and you can grab an apple or orange to take into the park to make it stretch even longer! I can’t wait to get back to Disney and Universal! I haven’t seen any of the newer part of Wizarding World of HP.

July 15, 2017 at 7:10 pm

Exactly! And, yes you have to go back. Diagon Alley is SOO cool. The dragon is amazing.

July 15, 2017 at 3:33 pm

Great tips! My parents love Disney World and Orlando Studios. They go every couple of years and have a trip planned in the Fall. I will pass on these tips!

July 15, 2017 at 7:09 pm

Awesome, thank you!!

August 7, 2017 at 10:19 pm

Great tips for a first timer. One question, and maybe I missed it, did you mention anything about a pass that lets you park hope? I am using almost every one of your tips, thanks again!

August 8, 2017 at 6:50 am

There are multi-park tickets that allow you to go between parks in the same day. And, there are express passes that allow you to get to the front of the lines. Express passes are included when you stay on property at most of their resorts too.

September 29, 2017 at 11:04 am

Volcano Bay is a no-no as far as I could see from endless horrible reviews. Too crowded and bracelet system doesn’t work. Better off going to Disney’s or Sea World’s aqua parks.

September 29, 2017 at 11:30 am

Thank you for the comment. I definitely agree that Universal needs to limit the amount of people they allow in and work on their bands. But, now that it’s a quieter season (as opposed to a brand new park in the summer) I’m guessing things are slowing down. And, if that’s the case I don’t think the park itself with the rides it has can be beat by any of the other Orlando water parks. In fact I can confidently say that Volcano Bay had the best rides, slides, play areas and was the cleanest water park I had ever visited. They also had the best food. So when they get all the tweaks worked out I think it will be unstoppable ?

May 7, 2018 at 5:44 pm

We just went in April and the bracelet system was fantastic! They must have gotten all the hiccups worked out because it was flawless. We rented chairs too. Our attendant brought us our food and refilled our water bottles all day long. It was a great experience.

May 8, 2018 at 6:16 am

That is wonderful news!!! I absolutely LOVED the park and was only concerned with the lines. I figured they would learn and improve. Great news!!

July 9, 2018 at 6:11 pm

We have never been to universal, but would you say it’s a full day in each park? And how may parks are there?

July 9, 2018 at 9:00 pm

Hey Mandy, There are three parks. If you don’t have the express pass, it is definitely a full day in each park. If you do have the express pass you can possibly hit up two parks in one day. The parks are a good size and a ton of fun.

December 12, 2019 at 8:17 am

Also a fun tip: outside of Diagon Alley at Universal studios, if you knock on the door of 12 Grimmauld Place, you can see Kreacher peak out through the curtains.

August 20, 2019 at 6:41 am

Thanks Lucy for the sweet comments. Please feel free to contact us with any questions about your trip.

December 11, 2019 at 8:34 am

The BEST Universal Orlando Tips from a Pro [Over 20 Amazing Tips] – Great site. A lot of useful info here. I’m sending it to several friends ans also sharing in delicious. And certainly, thank you to your effort!- calator.tel

February 9, 2020 at 5:57 am

If it’s someone’s birthday, get a birthday button. When I went with my sister, we got backdoor access to a couple of rides and they sang Happy Birthday to her over the intercom at Men in Black!

February 13, 2020 at 8:36 am

The pictures of your children in the park really made this list special. Thanks for sharing.

September 11, 2020 at 3:19 pm

I was surprised by the difference in the daily rates of a common hotel to a hotel in the Universal complex. Actually, even though it is a little more expensive, the advantages far outweigh the difference. Thank you for all this information.

June 6, 2021 at 5:45 am

We just visited the end of may and the parks we’re super crowded,that being said we purchased the unlimited express pass and it may be pricy but my family never had so much fun,we had no wait times and that makes a high difference compared to the other people I saw waiting over an hour on some rides. Also they do have a medical assistant pass for people with conditions that make waiting in line difficult , very helpful with two children with conditions that make it hard to wait in the heat. Can’t wait to go back ,I think we will definitely stay at one of the big three hotels to get express pass

June 6, 2021 at 6:23 am

Glad you had a great time. Yes, when it is crowded, those express passes are a game changer.

February 15, 2023 at 11:19 am

ANYONE HAVE A STRATEGY FOR ONE PERSON, AGE 20, WHO ONLY HAS ONE DAY, WANTS TO DO BOTH PARKS IN EARLY MARCH 2023 ? I SEE SINGLE RIDERS OPTIONS, SHOULD I STILL GET EXPRESS PASS? PLAN TO BE THERE WHEN PARK OPENS AND STAY UNTIL IT CLOSES! THANKS IN ADVANCE FOR INPUT!

February 24, 2023 at 5:44 am

With Single Rider you should be able to get on almost all the major rides in one day.

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The Lazy Mom’s Guide To Dominating Universal Studios Orlando

It’s too hard!

That’s what your lazy brain tells you when the idea of a family vacation to Universal Studios Orlando comes up.

You have to organise flights , transport , a hotel , theme park tickets , research restaurants, plus other activities in the area. Forget about it.

Just use my ultimate guide for Universal Studios Orlando that is perfect for any mom… even if you’re super duper lazy .

This guide is not too long or too short. It’s just right. And it includes all the essential info you need to know to make smart decisions without wasting half a day of research.

Your family will think you’re a rock star.

Take my word for it.

Budget Tip: Save up to $74 per ticket by buying online in advance from Theme Park Center .

Where To Stay Near Universal Studios Orlando

Universal Studios recommended we try their family friendly retro-themed Cabana Bay Beach Resort . Big pools, a waterslide, a beach-inspired sand area for castle-making or volleyball, and the American-style Bayliner Diner make it a relaxing, laid back place to spend your evenings or down-days not at the theme park. 

Our Tower Family Suite featured a living room (with fold-out sofa for the kids), kitchenette and separate bedroom with two queen beds. 2 bathroom sinks meant that getting ready in the morning was quicker. I found it provided plenty of room for the four of us, plus my sister who came to visit for her birthday.

The bonuses of staying at a Universal hotel are well worth the resort fees. You can enjoy:

• Early park admission to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter 1 hour before the public (tip: the Hogwarts Express train which connects both halves doesn't run during that time).
• Free package delivery to the hotel room for any items purchased in the theme parks.
• Free parking at the main CityWalk parking garage.
• Free transportation to the theme parks and CityWalk – a shuttle leaves every 10 minutes starting early in the morning until 2am.
• “Pool hopping” privileges allows you to use any other related hotels’ recreational facilities – for example, you get to use the Hard Rock Hotel pool even if you are staying at the Cabana Bay Beach Resort.
• Free Wi-Fi Internet in all hotel rooms and public areas.
• Free scheduled transportation to SeaWorld, Aquatica, and Wet ‘n Wild.
• And all guests staying at Portofino Bay , Hard Rock , and Royal Pacific also get free Universal Express Unlimited passes for both parks. More on this later, because this is my number one must-do when buying tickets to Universal.

We loved the hotel. The pool was ultra relaxing, and with lifeguards on duty I spent most of my time soaking in the hot tub while the kids happily swam supervised in the pool. 

Bayliner Diner was ok. The majority of breakfast foods were sitting around waiting to be purchased, however omelettes were freshly prepared and my preferred option. While they could freshly prepare omelettes there was nowhere to get fried eggs and the scrambled eggs were in a warmer and looking rather clumpy.

We also had lunch at Bayliner Diner one day. The pizza was not too bad, but the burgers were freshly made and rather tasty. They have a drink refill system that works terribly. You have to purchase a souvenir cup to use the freestyle soda machines. If you use a normal cup you have to use a different machine that rarely worked. Every time we wanted a drink we had to ask staff to fix it. I think the hotel would benefit from sorting out those drink machines, because it was rather frustrating.

But there were other places to get a great drink, plus they have a Starbucks! 

The resort houses a bowling alley (called Galaxy Bowl), ideal if the weather turns sour. And the fitness room was huge with expansive windows overlooking the beautiful pool area.

Tickets for the theme park can be purchased in the lobby area, and online tickets (booked in advance) can be conveniently printed here. Just be aware you can not print the express passes in advance - they have to be printed on the day they are to be used. We found this out the hard way.

Where To Eat In Universal Studios Orlando

I loved the themed restaurants at Universal and was bummed that with 2 days up our sleeves I wouldn’t have time to try them all. I wish I tried a British-style pub meal at The Leaky Cauldron  which sounded fab (so if you went here, let me know in the comments below). Instead, here is where we stuffed our faces:

Lard Lad Donuts  @ Simpsons Land

For only $4.99 (+ tax) you can enjoy your very own Giant Pink . You’ve seen the giant pink iced, sprinkled donut on The Simpsons  TV series and movie, and now you can enjoy your very own. This donut is as big as your head so we shared it amongst 2 adults and 2 kids. After a month without sugar it was by far the best possible reward ever.

Butterbeer Stands  @ The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

My sister and I tried the famous Butterbeer back in London at the Harry Potter Studios . We were not fans, but we were told the US version was different so we went in search of Butterbeer. It’s not hard to find, wherever you go in Diagon Alley or Hogsmeade you will find shops and stalls selling the famous Butterbeer. And this is one you can drink in the morning, as it is non-alcoholic. While slightly different and a bit sweeter than the UK alternative, I am not convinced it’s something I would drink again. But you must do it at least once! It’s a soda topped with a sweet-scented cream froth that will leave you with a white moustache.

NBC Sports Grill & Brew   @ CityWalk

At first I had to wonder why Universal would recommend a sports bar to a family. But this brand new restaurant is so much more than sports on big screens (although there’s plenty of that). Families will love this place with its built-in foosball tables and loud, lively atmosphere. That’s right, we were seated at a glass-topped foosball table, which kept the kids amused for several hours during dinner.

We got to try the soft pretzel for starters, which was bigger than a small child. Also try the Wisconsin fried cheese curds , so soft and mouth-watering. The menu covers burgers, salads, ribs, and steaks. All in very generous portions and for a reasonable price. Try the brownie sundae for dessert; again, you might like to share.

Best Way To Get To Universal Studios Florida

The majority of the Universal hotels are within walking distance to the theme parks. Hard Rock is the closest and Cabana Bay is the furthest requiring a 30-minute walk.

With young kids, the free shuttle from Cabana Bay Beach Resort was a lifesaver. Instead of adding that walk on top of an already FitBit-crazy-steps day. The shuttle bus dropped us off at a central hub and it was a simple escalator up to the top level. From there an airport-style security check takes place (but with almost no queues) before taking the travelator to CityWalk, just outside the theme park entrances. 

You can park at the same hub, but parking costs are similar to Disney at $20 per day, per car. If you leave your car at the hotel, overnight parking is $12 ( see latest prices ).

If you are at one of the other Universal hotels you can also reach CityWalk and the theme parks by boat! How cool is that?

And if you get tired in the park then use the Hogwarts Express  train to make your way between the 2 theme parks. It’s a mini show and it changes in each direction so make sure you travel both ways. 

Tell Me More About Universal!

In Orlando you will find 2 Universal parks – Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure . If you are a magic-loving Harry Potter fan you might spend the entire day at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter , which spans both parks – Diagon Alley in Universal Studios Florida and Hogsmeade in Universal’s Islands of Adventure .

But there is so much more to Universal than Harry Potter. For instance, Mia’s favourite ride (that we went on more than 5 times) was the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit . It features 3 world-first manoeuvres — the Double Take (the world’s largest non-inverted loop), the Treble Clef (track built in the shape of the musical symbol) and the Jump Cut (a spiralling negative-gravity move).

The worst part about this ride? Caius was too small and was very upset that he couldn’t come on with us. The best bit? You can choose your own music to ride with. So each time it’s like a new ride! But choose quickly, I got a random country song after taking too long - an interesting choice for a rollercoaster, haha! 

Our Favourite Rides At Universal Studios

Escape from gringotts.

Most of the Harry Potter rides are unbelievable, but this was a family favourite. My 5-year-old found the story scary. He still wanted to ride, but he did so without the glasses because he didn’t want to watch the accompanying 3D film. You first enter the Gringotts bank underneath a hot fire-breathing dragon. The queue moves fast as you pass through the bank’s grand marble lobby where goblins are working. Then strap in for a multi-dimension 3D thrill ride with special guest Harry and Voldemort. 

On a side note Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey in the Hogwarts castle is bit terrifying for young children. There is a height restriction which both my kids passed, but flying dementors and lots of dark and scary noises means if your youngster scares easily then perhaps give that one a skip!

Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem

Our kids’ favourite. It all starts with Gru addressing the audience, followed by mountains of giggles as a fart sound effect fills the air (thankfully it smells like bananas). Once you head into the auditorium a 3D roller coaster cinematic ride ensued. There’s always a queue, but you can use the Express Pass and get in super fast. It’s a must for both kids and adults. 

Mummy’s Revenge

You might like to utilise the child swap for this dark ride. It’s a roller coaster through the shadows with hot flames, scarab beetles and, of course, mummies. My 5-year-old surprisingly loved this ride, but my more sensitive 7-year-old was not even keen to try. For adults this is an awesome ride! 

Simpsons Ride

This gyrating ride through the world of the Simpsons was a firm family favourite, but even with the Express Pass the queue can be quite long so head here at the start of your day. The bonus is that while you’re waiting they show Simpsons episodes which makes you forget about the wait. 

Tickets For Universal Studios Florida

There are two types of tickets you can buy for Universal. A Base Ticket will give you admission to  Universal Studios Florida  OR  Universal's Islands of Adventure . While the Park-to-Park ticket will give you entry to BOTH.

I recommend the Park-to-Park Ticket so you can visit both parks in one or two days.

A discounted 1-day ticket is US$160.94 for adults and $153.73 for kids (use the above link for the discount). If you buy a 2-day ticket, however, you can get a 3 rd day free! A 2-day ticket will set you back $226.88 for an adult and $216.92 for a child.

I recommend buying your tickets in advance via Theme Park Center  which will save up to $74 per ticket.

Do You Really Need An Express Pass?

If I had to do it again I would not hesitate to get the Express Pass , regardless if you have kids. Nearly every ride has an Express line, which can save you anywhere from 15 minutes to a few hours.

Without an Express Pass you will need at least 2 days to do both theme parks. With the Express Pass (on a quieter day) you could squeeze everything in 1 overloaded day. We still used ours across 2 days and it just meant that the rides we loved the most could be re-visited once, twice or six times.

With kids in the equation, skipping those hour-long queues was paramount to an enjoyable family day and I highly recommend building it in to your budget.

The Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride did not support the Express Pass, so use the mobile app to establish the shortest wait time and choose the optimal time. We ended up waiting 25 minutes which wasn’t bad considering we gradually walked through the whole Hogwarts castle, being entertained by interesting talking characters, screens, enchanting decorations and more.

You can get two types of Express Passes. The Universal Express Pass can be used one time per ride. The Universal Express Unlimited Pass can be used unlimited times on any of the participating rides each day that your pass is valid. Prices vary so check Universal for latest prices.

You can also get these included for free at certain Universal hotels. 

While You’re There…

Blue man group.

The first time I saw the Blue Man Group was in New York without the family. When the opportunity came to see it again with the family I was over the moon. I couldn’t wait to introduce them to one of the most amazing live shows I’d ever seen.

The Blue Man Group have a permanent home at the Sharp Aquos Theatre , a building right outside Universal Studios in CityWalk. It’s a smart choice to tag this activity on one night after finishing at the theme park.

While the show contained some elements from the show I had seen in New York, it also included some new, surprising routines.

I have never heard my 5-year-old son laugh so hard. It’s the perfect family show! And the ending is phenomenal.

When choosing seats make sure you pay special attention to the “Poncho” zone. There was a bit of spit flying around from the stage. The theatre seats 1000 people, but no matter where you are seated the zones are arranged in such a way that you will always have a good view.

If you are still unsure what the Blue Man Group is, it’s best described as a comedic rock concert, theatre production and dance party all rolled into one. If that doesn’t help, then go see it!

Tickets can be purchased at the door although seating is limited. So it’s best to buy online (either from Theme Park Center  or Universal ), plus it’s cheaper.

Crayola Experience Orlando

A great place for a day away from the theme parks. The kids will get to exercise their creativity and parents can enjoy a moment’s rest while they run from exhibit to exhibit in a safe, enclosed space. Read more here . 

Disney World

Plenty of young families are flocking to Disney World every day, but I prefer Universal Studios Orlando. The crowds are thinner, it will also cost you less and the rides are way more crazy. Sure, the Magic Kingdom is a magical day out for young kids, but if you had to choose just 1 park (and love adrenaline-pumping thrills) then Universal Studios Orlando takes the cake.

Or if you have the time (and money) up your sleeve, just do both theme parks. It’s up to you. Read here about our 1 day at the Magic Kingdom . 

Top Lazy Hacks For Universal Studios Florida

We used the child swap service a few times, but you can also utilise this for a bag swap . If your bag/backpack is too big for the lockers (or just contains fragile/valuable items) then simply have one person in your group wait with the bag/s in the child swap room and swap once your party finishes the ride. We had a backpack which would not quite fit in the provided lockers outside several rides. We also didn’t want our photography gear getting ruined on the water rides so we found this a super handy service. 

Men In Black Tour

If it’s a slow day at the park (like when we went before Spring Break in March) then ask a team member to show you the giant immigration room at the Men In Black ride. 

Ministry Of Magic Phone Booth  

Oh, I love this one! Dial 62442 (MAGIC) on the red phone booth outside Leicester Square Station , it will connect you directly with the Ministry of Magic (for free).

Harry Potter Postcards

Want to make your friends jealous? Send a postcard from Hogsmeade Village and it will get a special Hogsmeade Village postmark.

Secret Songs

Choosing your own song on Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit gets even better with “hidden tracks”. After lowering the restraints, push and hold the ride’s logo for around 10 seconds. When you release your finger, a number pad will show up. Enter a three-digit code, then push enter, and a mystery song corresponding to the code will be played. Most of the tracks are located between 101-132, 301-312, 501-508, 701-718 and 901-904. If you hit a different number, you’ll hear the default song.

Your Own Food

Universal Studios allow you to bring your own food into the park. If you want to save money, bring in your own snacks and lunch and eat at the picnic tables just across the road from Mel’s Drive-In near the lake. In saying that, a cup of popcorn at Disney World will set you back $8, and at Universal less than $6! 

Use the App

The Universal Orlando resort app for your smartphone is a must. You can download it for free and check wait times to minimise your downtime. We found it fairly accurate and I loved the interactive map feature, which gives you directions from wherever you are to the ride you want to get to. 

At the Fear Factor show you can go at least 70 minutes early to be cast in the live show. But beware participants eat some pretty disgusting creepy crawlies! 

Avoid the crowds

Use the Crowd Calendar by Undercover Tourist to predict what days are better for visiting so you spend more time on rides and less in queues.

That’s A Wrap

Yep, it’s that easy. Everything you need to organise an awesome family vacation at Universal Studios Orlando… even if you’re lazy.

So what part are you most excited about doing? Lazing by the pool? Thrilling roller coasters? Or the giant pink donut? Share it in the comments below.

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Reader Comments...

That is a real big donut!

Love this and pinned. We are going to Universal Studios in September for the first time and I will definitely be referring back to this. Found you on the Mommy Bloggers Share Facebook group.

A very nice guide indeed! But I don't think you have to be lazy in order to find the hassle of organizing a trip with the kids difficult (to say the least). It is a lot of work wherever you go... Still, the experience is definitely worth it!

We loved Cabana Bay - such a cool retro vibe and the pool was AMAZING! We had a quiet afternoon after the park one day and went bowling, which was also great fun. We were also a bit disappointed with the food options, though this is because my wife and I are coeliac and needed to eat gluten free, so options were a little limited. The kids loved it though! Our family all enjoyed Universal Studios especially all the Harry Potter stuff. We had breakfast at the leaky cauldron (gluten free pancakes? Yes please!) and the atmosphere was great. It really felt like we were in another time and place. I may have over indulged in Butter Beer...

Great advice! Living in Florida, I've been to Universal more times than I can count and I can say that your guide is spot on. Universal has some of the best food of theme parks and a wide variety of rides. I will say that Universal studios is more simulated rides except for rip ride rocket, and universal islands of adventure is for the more thrill seeking people. A majority of the large rides, such as the hulk and harry potter world, are located within this park. Also islands of adventure is going to be larger and have more to do, so if you're going for just one day, I would recommend going to this park.

Travelling to Orlando in 3 weeks from Scotland with my family! Staying at hard rock hotel!! I'm now craving large pink donuts haha! Great blog thanks

I'm really excited to take my family for the first time this March. We have an early spring break, before local schools and before most of my friends in other parts of the country too. The crowd calendar is only at moderate the days we will be there. We are going for 2 or maybe even 3 days. Do we really NEED express passes? Because it is peak season they are super expensive for our family of 5 for multiple days. I'd love to hear your thoughts..... Right now I'm leaning towards just staying where I can get the early extra hour but not the passes :\

@Valerie We've been to Universal during spring break a couple times and the express passes are golden to avoid the longer lines for the high traffic attractions. Luckily, we were able to hit some of the attractions later on in the evening as the crowd began to disperse, however, the express passes would have allowed us to hit more rides throughout the day rather than rushing through the park and not being able to get to everything.

Just returned from Universal Studios Orlando vacation, we stayed at Universal's Cabana Beach Bay Resort hotel which was great. It's a 50's themed hotel, that has large pools, a diner style food options and a lazy river. We went to all 3 of the theme parks including Volcano Bay. As guests of the Cabana Bay Hotel we were allowed the enter all of the theme parks one hour before they opened to the public which was a huge bonus as we did not have to dealt with long lines to get on the big rides such as Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, Skull Island: Reign of Kong, the Hulk and the Krakatau aqua coaster at Volcano Bay. The hotel offers free shuttle bus service that we spacious, cool and run on time. I posted videos of our entire trip my Youtube channel. Check it out! Especially if you have never been to either Cabana Bay Resort or the theme parks. Will also be posting videos with tips and food reviews. We cant wait to go back next year! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5HWNrY6kIH1FfOixL7FC9Q

I have read several blogs about the under cover tourist's lower universal prices. Unless I'm missing something they are actually a few dollars more than buying them straight from the universal website. Am I missing something?

Going to Universal for the first time, during spring break for 2 days. I have 3 older children, 9,12,14 and wondering if the interactive wands are worth it? or maybe just buy 1 to share. Thank you,

Orlando is my dream place i liked very much in this article...songs, be a star, food, especially i loved that Ministry Of Magic Phone Booth so nice article..just loved it!

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2024 Universal Orlando Planning Guide

Our 2024 Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure planning guide offers park & ride strategy. It features tips & tricks to help you save money & time, avoid crowds, and have the best vacation or side-visit from Walt Disney World as possible. ( Updated January 7, 2024. )

We’re Universal Orlando Annual Passholders and huge fans of those parks in addition to Walt Disney World. Universal has improved a ton and upped its game in the last decade. This began with the Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade lands of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which were further enhanced by Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure.

That has been taken to the next level with the debut of Jurassic World VelociCoaster, and to a lesser extent, with the new Minions mini-land last year. This is once again going to be another big year thanks to the DreamWorks Animation Land Opening in 2024 at Universal Studios Florida. These recent and upcoming additions, not to mention an all-new theme park in 2025, are among the reasons why some Walt Disney World fans are openly asking:  Is Universal Beating Disney?

Suffice to say, we highly recommend spending a couple of days at Universal when vacationing at Walt Disney World. This is guide to Universal Orlando Resort contains everything you’ll need to know. Whether you’re doing both parks in a single day or making a trip of it with an on-site hotel stay and multiple days at Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, we have you covered with info and advice about attractions, dining, resorts, strategy, crowds, and more.

In this guide, we’ll cover how to make the most of a visit to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. We’re going to take a counterintuitive organizational approach to this guide, as we’ve found that many readers consult it while visiting Universal rather than during the planning stages of a trip. Accordingly, we’re going to front load with info you need to know if you’ve already touched down in Central Florida.

If you’re a Disney fan simply trying to determine whether a trip to Universal Orlando Resort is right for you in the first place, you might start by reading our Universal vs. Walt Disney World post, which covers some of the pros and cons of each, plus the differences between the two vacation destinations. Although they’re all theme parks located in Central Florida, each have strengths and weaknesses that will make them better or worse for certain types of families–ages, demographics, etc.

Similarly, if you’re debating between resorts at the two main theme park complexes, see our comprehensive breakdown: Universal Orlando vs. Walt Disney World Hotels . That should help you determine which is the better option for your vacation–or if a split stay might be best!

For what it’s worth, neither of these versus posts nor the one about whether Universal is “beating” Disney are pointless fan cheerleading or theme parks as polarizing team sports. The two versus posts are practical planning that objectively weigh pros and cons, whereas the “beating” one is an editorial (not useful for planning, but potentially interesting).

Anyway, here’s everything else you need to know about visiting Universal Orlando Resort…

What’s New & Next at Universal

If you have not been to Universal Orlando in a while (or ever), a lot has changed in the last several years. This includes a few attractions that have been added in the last several years: Bourne Stuntacular, Fast and the Furious: Supercharged, Race Through New York starring Jimmy Fallon, and Skull Island: Reign of Kong.

In terms of what’s new, there are two hugely popular coasters in Islands of Adventure: Jurassic World VelociCoaster and Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure in the Hogsmeade side of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Without question, VelociCoaster and Hagrid’s are two of the very best roller coasters in Orlando. (I’d personally put both above TRON Lightcycle Run at Walt Disney World, but to each their own on that.)

As noted above, there’s also the new Minion Land at Universal Studios Florida . As the name suggests, this is an area based on the  Despicable Me  film franchise, and builds on the popularity of the existing Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem attraction. This is now an expanded avenue with the new Villain-Con Minion Blast ride and Minion Cafe restaurant, plus more retail, snack spots, meet & greets, placemaking, and more.

Next on the horizon is the aforementioned DreamWorks Animation Land that will feature characters like Gabby from Gabby’s Dollhouse  and explore themed, interactive play spaces and attractions that bring popular franchises like  Shrek ,  Trolls  and  Kung Fu Panda to life.

Although unconfirmed, this is expected to feature a “Trollercoaster” (a Trolls-themed roller coaster, hence the name) and a Shrek’s swamp area. Construction permits put the end of work in March 2024, which makes sense–have the DreamWorks land open by Spring Break. (That opening timeframe is also unconfirmed, though–permits can be extended, but construction appears to be progressing quickly.)

These new additions are appetizers to the main course, which comes in Summer 2025. Universal is building a third theme park in Central Florida and construction is progressing fast . It’s full steam ahead on this project, and Universal’s Epic Universe Park is Opening by Summer 2025! This will bring Super Nintendo World plus more Harry Potter, Universal Monsters, How to Train Your Dragon, and much more to Universal Orlando in the coming years.

In the here and now, another thing worth addressing in terms of what’s new is a return to normal in terms of attendance and crowds. After nearly two full years of pent-up demand driving wait times and prices higher, both Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando have seen a slowdown.

With this, both Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando have gotten more aggressive with discounts in an attempt to entice more people to visit their parks and stay in on-site hotels. We’ve mentioned repeatedly that  Walt Disney World already  has released a dozen different discounts for 2024 .

Universal has followed suit, shifting from discounts aimed almost exclusively at Annual Passholders and Florida residents to general public offers. There’s currently a “buy 2 days, get 3 free” ticket deal, resort discounts offering 20-35% off, and package deals offering up to $650 off.

These are worth pricing out for yourself, but we should warn that many have length of stay requirements of 5 days. That’s longer than most people will spend at Universal Orlando (which is part of why it’s being offered–to increase visit durations). In any case, we recommend using a travel agent– such as Be Our Guest Vacations –to price out different packages and deals, and help you figure out the best way to save, plan your trip, etc.

Now let’s turn to Universal Orlando’s advanced planning topics…

Where to Stay

There are a number of questions you have to ask yourself when planning a trip, and many of them will dictate where you stay. Do you want Unlimited Express Pass by staying at an eligible Universal Orlando hotel? Do you want to stay at a Walt Disney World hotel for the duration of your trip, or change hotels? Do you want to stay an an off-site hotel in the general vicinity of both Universal and Disney to save money?

We’ve recently stayed at every single on-site hotel at Universal Orlando Resort–here are our reviews:

• Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando Review (recommended)
• Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando Review (highly recommended)
• Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando Review (good Express Pass eligible “budget” pick)
• Loews Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando Review (highly recommended)
• Universal’s Aventura Hotel Review
• Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort Review (highly recommended)
• Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn & Suites Review (good budget pick)
• Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn & Suites (2-Bedroom) Review (good for larger families)

For insight into all of these hotels, their pros & cons, and how they compare and contrast with one another, see our Universal Orlando Hotel Rankings & Reviews .

We are big fans of Universal’s hotels, and are particularly partial to the two “bay” resorts: Loews Portofino Bay Hotel and Cabana Bay Beach Resort. Both of those are in our top 10 hotels in Orlando, rivaling some of our favorite resorts at Walt Disney World.

Universal’s hotels provide great bang for buck, and even those that don’t include free Express Pass do offer Early Park Admission to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Universal’s Volcano Bay one hour before those parks open. That can be absolutely huge!

As for staying off-site, you generally will get the most bang for your buck when staying in an off-site hotel, as there are a lot of non-Disney and non-Universal hotels competing with one another. We have an Off-Site v. On-Site Walt Disney World Hotels article that goes into greater depth about the pros and cons of staying off-site, and it’s marginally applicable to Universal, as well.

As for simply staying at a Walt Disney World hotel for the duration of your trip regardless of where you go, we have written comprehensive reviews with our opinions and photos of the rooms. Check out our Walt Disney World Hotel Reviews page , for links to each of these reviews.

Ride Strategy for Universal Orlando

Next, what to know while you’re at Universal Orlando. For starters, we strongly recommend that you do not “wing it” for your daily itinerary due to the aforementioned crowd issues. You don’t need to plan every movement so that there’s no spontaneity in your trip, just make sure you have at least a loose plan of what you’re going to do.

We have the following plans for each park that cover our perfect days:

• 1-Day Universal Studios Florida Park Itinerary
• 1-Day Islands of Adventure Park Itinerary
• 1-Day Universal Park Hopping Itinerary ( both Islands of Adventure & Universal Studios Florida )

Those offer step by step touring plans for both theme parks at Universal Orlando, prioritizing the most popular rides and skipping what isn’t worth your time. Those will help you do Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man, Incredible Hulk Coaster, Jurassic Park River Adventure, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, and other must-do rides.

If you’d prefer to create your own itineraries and want an overview and review of every attraction at each of the parks, consult our Islands of Adventure Ride Guide and Universal Studios Florida Ride Guide . If you’re a fan spinners, you might want to check those out, as we don’t waste your time with that nonsense in the itineraries.

When to Visit

If you’re adding on a Universal Orlando visit to your Walt Disney World vacation, the answer to this is easy…whenever you’re visiting Walt Disney World. Crowd patterns at Walt Disney World translate pretty similarly to Universal Orlando.

The reasons are two-fold: first, because crowds tend to be predicated upon school schedules, which are the same for both; second, because Walt Disney World is the ‘whale’ in the Orlando market, so crowds for all theme parks are dictated by when guests plan their Disney vacations. In other words, you can refer to our 2024 Walt Disney World Crowd Calendars post to determine when to visit, as that’s roughly applicable to Universal Orlando as well.

There are only some exceptions to this, and they’re largely predicated upon special events that are unique to each of the parks. For example, Walt Disney World sees its crowds spike due to runDisney events, when its hotels are hosting conventions or youth sporting events, or during EPCOT festivals. By contrast, Universal sees its own spikes around Mardi Gras, Halloween Horror Nights, and early December when it plays host to the Pop Warner youth football event.

In general, though, the big driver of attendance at both is school breaks. In particular, those of Orange County and other counties throughout Florida and the South. Of course, both are vacation destinations, so breaks for school districts in the Midwest and Northeast also have a significant impact. The obvious times like Spring Break, Easter, Summer, Fall Break, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve are all busy.

More under the radar timeframes like MLK Day, Presidents’ Day, Mardi Gras, Columbus Day, Veterans Day, and more also see pronounced spikes in crowds. Again, reference the aforementioned crowd calendars if you’re looking to choose the best times to visit Universal Orlando.

Due to a surge of locals on weekends, we strongly recommend avoiding Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure on Saturdays and Sundays. Mondays through Thursdays are the best days to visit, with much lower crowds then. However, that goes out the window during holiday weeks or anytime school is out of session, when it’s disproportionately tourists and every single day of the week is busy.

The one exception to this is if you want to see or avoid Halloween season at Universal, namely Halloween Horror Nights (HHN). This is a hard ticket event that has a huge following among locals and fans of haunt season, in general.

During HHN, you step onto the set of some of your favorite horror movies, and walking through those sets as actors attempt to scare you. This event is not for children under the age of 13, and has absolutely nothing in common with Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party at Walt Disney World. See our Guide to Halloween Horror Nights for more .

Aside from this, the only noteworthy events are Mardi Gras and Christmas. See our Guide to Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval at Universal Studios Florida . At this fun event, guests can experience a food festival with cuisine and entertainment inspired by international Carnaval celebrations.

Food booths serve up the flavors of Puerto Rico, Trinidad and Tobago, Germany, Spain and other regions including, of course, New Orleans. Plus enjoy spectacular floats on display, street entertainment, music, beads and more throughout Universal Studios Florida.

Although HHN gets all the attention from the fan community, an equally popular seasonal event is Christmas at Universal Orlando . During this, Grinchmas and Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s are the main entertainment draws. There’s also the Christmas Tribute Store, which is essentially a walk-through exhibit, plus Universal Studios Florida’s iconic Christmas Tree.

Perhaps the biggest draw is Winter in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which features unique decor and projections on Hogwarts Castle. There are also decorations around both parks in Seuss Landing, Hogsmeade, Diagon Alley, Hollywood, New York, and San Francisco.

How Many Days?

This one is going to vary widely based on a few variables. The biggest one is how receptive your party is to the type of attractions that are prominent at Universal Orlando Resort, namely, roller coasters and screen-based simulators. That’s reductionist, and there are many more things at Universal than those types of rides, but if your party is averse to either, doing more than 2 days at Universal is going to be tough.

If you love coasters or have teens, you can easily spend 3 days or more at Universal Orlando. Heck, I’m not huge on roller coasters or simulators, and I can easily do 2 days (or even 3) at Universal. Likewise, if you love Harry Potter, several days at Universal will be easy. The two Wizarding Worlds of Harry Potter alone can fill a good chunk of the day. I mean, Diagon Alley has a fire-breathing dragon …not liking dragons is distinctly unpatriotic.

Islands of Adventure also has a Jurassic Park area, which is basically a tribute to our greatest national treasure: dinosaurs. It’s not as good as a real Jurassic Park (that would be like the San Diego Zoo meets the Lincoln Memorial meets Tokyo DisneySea), but it’s an enjoyable area to explore. In other words, there’s plenty to do if you’re an “ambiance person” at the Universal parks.

Then, there’s also the question of how much “extra” vacation time you have. Assuming you’ve already allocated your time at Walt Disney World and are looking at “other stuff” to round out your trip to Florida, I’d probably look to spending more time at Universal than other parks like SeaWorld or Busch Gardens. That’s personal preference and all of these parks definitely aren’t trying to accomplish the same thing, but I find the Disney and Universal parks to be in a different league than all of the rest.

Universal Orlando Park Tickets

If you’re looking for a deal on park tickets, Get Away Today will save you the most money on Universal Orlando tickets . This is especially true if you’re doing a longer trip, as Get Away Today has a ‘Buy 2 days, get 3 days free’ special. With more and more to do at Universal Orlando, spending several days in the parks is highly recommended–especially if you’re staying in a nearby hotel and want to do some partial days (also recommended).

I am a fan of the Park-to-Park tickets if you can swing spending extra. This is because Universal did something really ingenious when it built Diagon Alley, and that was connecting the two Wizarding Worlds of Harry Potter via the Hogwarts Express.

You can only ride this train from Hogsmeade to Diagon Alley (or vice-a-versa) if you have the Park-to-Park ticket. I’m no Harry Potter fan, but the experience of entering a train station in London, walking through a wall, and then taking a train to Hogsmeade is pretty awesome.

If you’re going for just one day and don’t want the park-to-park tickets, the best way to save money on Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida tickets is simply going to be buying tickets online on Universal Orlando’s website. The Universal tickets purchased online can be printed at home and used at the turnstiles–meaning no waiting in line to purchase tickets or exchange vouchers.

Express Pass

Express Pass is Universal Orlando’s version of Genie+ or Lightning Lanes (a way to skip the lines) and is available as a ticket add-on or with select hotel stays. You can purchase two varieties of Express Pass, regular or unlimited. Almost all of the most popular attractions in each park offer Express Pass.

The regular version allows you to skip the line once per eligible attraction in either park, and costs $90 to $350 per person depending on the date. Universal Express Unlimited offers line-skipping privileges, as the name suggests, an unlimited number of times per attraction, and costs between $100 and $380 per person. Even at its most expensive, Genie+ at Walt Disney World costs under $40 per person. So, what’s the difference? Well,  a lot. 

Unlike Genie+ or Lightning Lanes, there is no tech component to Express Pass. While it’s significantly more expensive, it’s also frictionless. You simply go up to the attraction and use your Express Pass entitlement. There’s nothing to reserve or hassle with in an app. Express Pass involves zero screen time and headaches–but you’ll pay a lot more for it!

Whether Express Pass is worth the money largely depends upon what day of the week and season you’re visiting, and how you value your time versus your money. Personally, we would not pay for Express Pass most days. However, we also avoid weekends and holidays, arrive for park opening, and utilize an efficient park itinerary.

If you really want Express Pass, staying at an on-site hotel that offers Express Pass with your stay is absolutely the way to go. Unlimited Express Pass is available at the Universal Premier category resorts–meaning Royal Pacific, Hard Rock Hotel, and Portofino Bay–which are Universal’s most expensive hotels. Honestly, this is the only way we’ve ever “bought” Express Pass–we couldn’t justify the cost any other way.

All three of these hotels are nice, on par with Walt Disney World’s Deluxe Resorts, and generally cost less. They’re still pricey, but they’re cheaper than Disney’s higher-end hotels, and absolutely worth the money–especially if you want the Unlimited Express Pass perk or a good location within walking or boat distance of Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida. If you’d be staying at a nice hotel anyway, this trio is definitely worthy of your consideration.

If you want to learn more about this line-skipping option and how it compares to Walt Disney World’s counterpart, see our guide:  Universal’s Express Pass v. Lightning Lanes & Genie+ at Walt Disney World .

Transportation

By far the most common questions we get concerning Universal Orlando Resort is: “what’s the best way to get from Walt Disney World Universal.” The answer is that there are a lot of options, but by far the best is Uber. We covered this in depth in our Uber vs. Rental Cars at Walt Disney World article. Here’s the pertinent portion of that post:

In the past, the best option we’ve found for those who don’t have rental cars the duration of their trips is either renting a car on-site for the day, or taking a pricey shuttle. Neither is cost-effective or all that appealing, especially when you add on that parking fee.

For those who aren’t renting a car for the duration of their trip, Uber or Lyft are the unquestionable best options for getting from Walt Disney World to Universal. The one-way cost of an Uber or Lyft from Walt Disney World will vary depending upon your exact location, typically costing under $25 each way and taking 20-25 minutes.

There are some good restaurants in Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, but as a whole, I do not think the culinary experience is on par with Walt Disney World’s. The unquestionable highlights, in my mind, are the counter service restaurants in Diagon Alley (Leaky Cauldron) and Hogsmeade (Three Broomsticks) and the table service restaurant, Mythos, which is a great value.

Other in-park restaurants at Universal Orlando that we like include the Today Show Cafe (for lighter options) and Krusty Burger (for the exact opposite). Actually, there’s something for everyone in the Springfield area, which has a variety of dining options drawn from The Simpsons.

On the snacking front, you’re obviously going to want to try Butterbeer–perhaps all three varieties (frozen, hot, and regular). Most of the other snacks we enjoy are also in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour and Honeydukes.

Another thing you might want to consider is purchasing a refillable Coke Freestyle mug. I’ve done this, but I can really put down the Cokes to make it worth the money. I’m sure some day I will be toothless, but hopefully that’s at least 5 years away. These Coke Freestyle machines located throughout the parks are also a convenient way to get free water that’s cold and tastes great.

Other Things to Do

Volcano Bay is Universal Orlando’s water park. It’s themed to the South Seas and features a giant volcano (hence the name) in the middle with water slides in it. For Walt Disney World fans, it’s a bit like Typhoon Lagoon water park mixed with Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and Adventureland.

All the rides at Volcano Bay feature a Virtual Line instead of traditional standby queues. You tap in with your TapuTapu wearable (think MagicBand) to grab a ride time. Then go float, swim, splash, eat, shop or relax around Volcano Bay. Your TapuTapu will tell you when it’s your time to ride.

You will either  love  or  hate  the virtual queue system at Volcano Bay. That pretty much comes down to whether you beat the crowds or not. That can be accomplished by arriving and/or staying late, buying Express Pass, or visiting during the off-season. If you don’t do any of those things, you’ll likely think the virtual queue system sucks, and you won’t accomplish much. It’s definitely a system that creates winners and losers–they key is (obviously) to be in the former group and not the latter.

In addition to the two theme parks and Volcano Bay water park, there’s CityWalk. This is Universal Orlando’s shopping, dining, and entertainment complex, which is a lot like Disney Springs. The big difference is that you walk through CityWalk to access Universal Studios Florida or Islands of Adventure, and it’s incredibly easy to exit the parks and eat lunch or dinner at CityWalk. No bus necessary!

There’s also a lot of relatively new dining at CityWalk, such as Red Coconut Club, Bigfire, Voodoo Doughnut, Toothsome Chocolate Emporium, Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar, and VIVO Italian Kitchen–among other things. Toothsome is a fan-favorite for its over the top milkshakes and dessert concoctions (as well as the fun steampunk theme), and Voodoo Doughnut is a fun spot. With that said, we think both are slightly overrated.

For our money, the sleeper hits of the list are Bigfire and Cowfish, both of which offer great food at reasonable (by theme park standards) prices. We’d also give honorable mentions to Vivo and Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food. While the latter is not our personal favorite, it’s better than the “blockbuster” touristy restaurants like Hard Rock Cafe, Margaritaville, and Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Nothing against any of those–but they’re essentially Applebee’s with more wow-factor. Good enough for predictably-prepared comfort food, but absolutely nothing special.

One final note on attractions is that there are numerous attractions that don’t allow bags, but provide free lockers nearby for storing backpacks, cameras, small children, and whatever other random junk you might have on you. These are pretty convenient and there are larger lockers you can pay for at the front of the park, but the point here is for those of you who are used to bringing a small U-Haul worth of stuff into the Walt Disney World parks: you can’t do that at Universal. Pack for the parks a little lighter.

I think this is probably a good starting point if you’re planning on visiting Universal Orlando Resort as an add-on to your Walt Disney World vacation. If you would like to see some of these topics covered in greater depth, please let me know in the comments. We’re planning to tackle more on dining, special events, and Universal Orlando news in the coming months, so stay tuned for more of that!

Need trip planning tips and comprehensive advice for your visit to Central Florida? Make sure to read our Walt Disney World Vacation Planning Guide for everything about those parks, resorts, restaurants, and so much more. For regular updates, news & rumors, a heads up when discounts are released, and much more, sign up for our FREE email newsletter !

Your Thoughts

Are you visiting Universal Orlando Resort in 2024? Excited for Epic Universe or other rumored additions in the next few years? What about Jurassic World VelociCoaster, Hagrid’s, or the new rides that have recently opened? Have a favorite on-site hotel at Universal? Do you prefer staying on-site at Universal, or commuting from Walt Disney World? If you’re a first-timer, is there anything else you’d like to know? Chances are if you have questions still, so does someone else! Please share your thoughts in the comments

Written by Tom Bricker

Do you have an itinerary for 1 day, 2 parks at Universal, with an express pass? That would be appreciated.

Have loved your site for years. We use it as a major planning tool for all of our trips to Disney, Universal and Disney Cruise locations. It seems like the ride guides, 1 day itineraries and Mardi Gras guide are all from a couple of years ago. Are there any updates we should be aware of that you do not reference in this article?

Thanks for sharing, would love to visit Universal.

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21 Top Tips for Visiting Universal Studios Orlando [2024]

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After a week in Orlando, Florida and three days spent at Universal Studios Orlando I am already planning a return trip. This was an absolutely magical place and perfect for all ages.

Universal seems to be a mixture of Walt Disney World which is perfect for children and Busch Gardens which is great for thrill-seekers. It’s for sure one of the best theme parks in the US !

I didn’t do quite enough research before my trip so I feel like my time wasn’t used as efficiently as it could have been. And I don’t want that happening to you!

So here are my top Universal Studios tips for 2023.

13. Buy Tickets in Advance

21. how much money do you need in universal studios.

Disclaimer: This post ma y contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through this link, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thanks for keeping Stuck On The Go going!

What to Know Before Going to Universal Orlando in 2023

There’s no way you’ll have it all figured out before your trip, but it’s great to have a head start! These Universal Orlando tips and tricks will hopefully help you create a plan and know what to expect on your trip.

1. Get to the Parking Garage by 8:30

We got there at multiple times during our stay and by far the easiest time to get in the park was at 8:30.

Since the park opens at 9 it seems like everyone wants to get there right then and there is a bottleneck effect.

When we arrived just after 9, it took us 40 minutes from the time we drove into the park to when we scanned our ticket since the morning rush hadn’t cleared out.

When we got there at 8:30 we were scanning our tickets into the park at 8:50. We were some of the first people in the park and first in line at the rides.

2. Make a Game Plan

Look at the park maps before you get there and figure out which rides you want to get on. Once you figure out your top rides, figure out which ones are close together.

You can group the rides together that you’d like to visit and then make a plan of which you’ll visit first.

You can also make a plan based on the region of the park you want to visit. Maybe you want to visit Harry Potter World first (like we did). I highly recommend this if you’re a big Harry Potter fan.

If you are spending one day in each park then this won’t be as big of an issue. A day gives you plenty of time to see everything in one park depending on how long the lines are and what all you want to ride.

3. Buy the Express Pass

Okay the Universal Express Passes are EXPENSIVE. In the app it kept saying starting at $99 for the Express Unlimited Pass well that’s on a weekday in the off-season.

On Friday April 23, 2021 they were $262 including tax. (That’s for only one.)

Was it worth it? Absolutely.

Well, the Express Pass was, but maybe not the Unlimited. They have one pass that lets you skip the line at each ride only once and if I had it to do over again I would get that one instead of the Unlimited.

We didn’t have time to ride many things more than once. Try buying your pass ahead of time to see if you can get a cheaper price instead of buying it on the day of.

This may seem counter-intuitive, but if I had it to do over again I think I would buy the Express Pass on a Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday. Those were the cheaper days. There will still be crowds so it’s worth it but it’s cheaper.

We did not have the Express Pass on Thursday and only rode four rides… Yes, four rides because we were standing in line so long. On Friday we got the Express Pass and rode eleven different rides and two of those twice.

So compare getting to ride four things to riding thirteen and you’ll see why it’s worth it to me.

I absolutely hate waiting in line – I’m really not patient at all – and yes, I know that’s a terrible trait. So the Express Pass made my day infinitely better and purchasing it is one of my biggest Universal Studios tips for 2023.

Only you can decide if the price is worth it to you though.

You can buy the Express Pass cheaper on Undercover Tourist sometimes so be sure to check them out!

Just a note – I don’t always recommend buying the Express Pass for theme parks. Especially when you visit places like Dollywood or Busch Gardens .

4. Bring a Fanny Pack (Small Backpacks Work)

You may be thinking “Anna there is no way in heck I am wearing a fanny pack, you are insane.” Well when you see how functional they are at Universal you might just change your tune.

Fanny packs are allowed on almost all the rides at Universal which means you don’t have to waste time with the lockers before the ride and you can keep your phone or anything else with you.

The lockers can get very congested and it takes up valuable time trying to stuff your backpacks or anything else in them. More on lockers in a minute.

If you don’t have a fanny pack and are absolutely boycotting them then a small backpack (like this Kavu bag ) is the next best thing. Just note that these will have to be stored in the lockers.

5. There are Lockers for Most Roller Coasters

The locker situation is awesome for groups that don’t have a person who isn’t riding the coasters. There are standard-sized lockers available for free at many of the roller coasters that measure 5.5” tall, 14” wide, and 16.9” deep. This fits a small backpack or miscellaneous items.

They have larger lockers available for $2 if your things don’t fit in a standard size. These would be regular size backpacks or large souvenirs. These single-time use lockers are only good for a certain time frame – maybe an hour but don’t hold me to that.

If you are bringing items in that you won’t need all day then Universal also offers all-day locker rentals. There are lockers for $10 at Islands of Adventure and $15 at Universal Studios Florida. You’ll have unlimited access to these lockers during the day.

At the Popeye water ride you must pay for the lockers because they offer a covered place on the “barge” for you to place your things. However, they will definitely still get wet so if you have anything that can’t get wet definitely buy the $2 locker.

On Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit and the Hulk Coaster you have to pass through a metal detector before you can go on the ride so you are required to put everything you have in a locker or with someone not riding.

6. Download the Universal Studios App

You can do so much with the Universal Studios App. You can get in the virtual lines for any attraction with that capability. You can order food and drinks on the app. The app holds your tickets, maps, show times, wait times for attractions, and general park info.

At many of the sit-down restaurants, you can mobile order – at least the ones in Harry Potter World. Then at restaurants with walk-up windows you can mobile-order and pick it up at a specific mobile-order pickup spot. It’s actually super efficient and you don’t have to wait in the long line.

Some rides go to virtual line only when the parks are at capacity. The Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure had a virtual line the first two days we were there and the third it was virtual until the afternoon.

On our third day there the Revenge of the Mummy was virtual and Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon was virtual all three days.

Honestly, this is one of the top tips for visiting Universal Studios. The app is so helpful.

7. Virtual Lines Open Before the Park

You can get a spot in virtual lines through the Universal App. It gives you the option to get a spot in line within a certain timeframe so all you have to do is show up at the ride and show the attendant your phone.

The Race Through New York ride opened by 8:30 everyday so you could get a spot. On the day we finally got there early enough to get a spot on Hagrid’s ride the virtual line for it opened at 8:45.

Hagrid’s ride always ran out of virtual spots so we were so excited to get in. By 9 all the spots were always gone and we never could find an opening throughout the day. Until the third day when they opened the line so you could physically wait in it instead of having to use the app.

Moral of the story is that if you want to ride something really bad, make sure to get there early and check the virtual line.

8. The Crosswalk Isn’t Always Open

There are three ways to get between the two parks – Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. This is only if you have a Park-to-Park ticket for the day.

First – You can walk out the exit of either park and through CityWalk by the Toothsome Chocolate Emporium and Hard Rock Cafe and into the other park. The walk is about 15 – 20 minutes depending on where you’re at in the park.

Second – There is a crosswalk between the two parks, but it is not always open so not an option all the time. It wasn’t open during any of the three days that we were there.

Third and my personal favorite – Take the Hogwarts Express! This is definitely the most fun way to get between the parks. However, the line gets incredibly long as the day goes on. If you’ve already been on this ride then I wouldn’t recommend waiting over 30 minutes on the train.

9. Many Restaurants on Universal CityWalk Require Reservations

 We made the mistake of not making a dinner reservation on a Friday night and were out of luck when it came to eating on CityWalk.

Every restaurant either had an hour and a half wait or was reservation only. I’ve already told you how impatient I am so you know I’m not waiting that long to eat.

For those of you who exercise your patience daily, you can grab drinks and appetizers at little kiosks around the CityWalk while you wait.

10. Express Passes Get You In Regardless of Virtual Lines

If you couldn’t get in the Virtual Line, but still want to ride something you can use your Express Pass if the attraction has an Express Line.

Not everything has an Express Line, but most do. One very popular ride that doesn’t is Hagrid’s.

11. Wear the Right Clothing and Shoes

One of the most important Universal Studios tips for 2023 by far. I wore a dri-fit t-shirt and shorts that dried quickly because I knew that we would be getting on the water rides.

I also wore my Chacos ZX3 sandals . They’re comfortable and do so well with water.

Comfortable shoes are a must. If you don’t plan on riding the water rides then I would go with sneakers. I’ve actually put together a whole list of the best shoes for theme parks if you need some new ones!

My Chacos are super comfy and did well when we walked 6 miles. Our last day we walked 12 miles though and my feet were hurting pretty good at the end of the day.

12. You Can Bring in Some Food

Here is one of the ultimate budget tips for visiting Universal Studios. You can bring in snacks and food that you don’t have to heat. What you cannot do is bring in a picnic lunch with a main course and sides.

I would highly recommend bringing some snacks and if you really want to watch your budget then take sandwiches for lunch. A good ol PB&J will always do the trick.

You are also allowed to bring up to two liters of water into the park. We brought in two water bottles each and that was plenty for us.

If you buy tickets in advance you’ll save a bit from what you would pay at the gate. It won’t be huge savings but everything adds up. Again, check with Undercover Tourist to buy your Universal Studios park tickets .

You can also see if Express Passes are discounted if you buy them when you purchase admission tickets.

I loved having my tickets on my phone in the Universal App. It was super convenient and I didn’t have to keep up with any extra pieces of paper.

More Universal Orlando Tips and Tricks 2023

14. you must have the 2-park ticket to ride the hogwarts express.

If you want to ride this then be sure you purchase the 2-park ticket! Honestly, if you want to save money you can purchase the 2-park ticket for one day only and do individual parks for the rest of your stay.

The Hogwarts Express is a must for any Harry Potter fan. Be sure to take the train both ways as the video is different depending on which station you come from.

15. Choose the Right Accommodations

Staying on the resort property would be nice, but it’s very expensive. Sometimes the included perks are worth it though. Undercover Tourist also sells hotel packages where you can sometimes find a deal!

For example, I’ve heard that one of the hotels within Universal Orlando Resort will include Express Passes for your whole family if you stay on their property. Depending on the size of your family this might be worth it.

We stayed at Club Wyndham Bonnet Creek Resort which is on the Walt Disney World Campus. It isn’t part of the Disney Resorts though so the weekly price is much cheaper.

I’ve also written a complete Club Wyndham Bonnet Creek Review if you want to know what to expect. This is sometimes an overlooked Universal Orlando tip!

16. Universal has Free WiFi

This will save your data plan if you connect to the free WiFi. It doesn’t require a password but if you don’t have an Xfinity account you’ll have to enter your email and zip code.

There is good coverage throughout both parks and most of CityWalk.

17. Buy Souvenirs Before You Arrive

This is mainly for Harry Potter World but can apply to other sections of Universal.

Many people love wearing Harry Potter shirts and cloaks. You can buy these on Amazon before your trip for much cheaper.

There are also necklaces, scarves, and so much more sold in the park. The prices really are outrageous so if you can buy them ahead of time I would do that.

The one thing I would buy in the park is the interactive wand if you want that. It is really cool to do the magic in the park.

My sister got Snape’s wand for $58 but I didn’t want to pay that much.

18. You Don’t Have to Buy Your Wand at Ollivanders

Everyone wants to visit Ollivanders to buy their wand which can make the line incredibly long. There are so many other places to buy a wand though.

In Diagon Alley you can visit Wands by Gregorovitch when they are open. You can also go to Knockturn Alley into Borgin & Burke’s if you want a dark wizard’s wand.

In Hogsmeade you’ll find a cart between Hogwarts and the shops where you can buy wands. You’ll also find wands at Dervish and Banges.

19. How Many Days Should You Spend at Universal Studios Florida?

I would say three at the very least. It takes a day or two just to get your bearings – especially if you haven’t made a plan. We didn’t make a good plan and we spent most of the first two days walking around figuring stuff out.

If you can make it on Tuesdays or Wednesdays those are the best days to visit too. Weekends are absolutely horrendous for crowds. I would hate to see the place when they weren’t limiting access.

Hopefully these Universal Orlando tips and tricks will help you take advantage of all your time there!

20. Visit During Shoulder Season

Unless you have to visit during the school breaks, I would make it a point to avoid those. You’ll spend your whole vacation waiting in line.

According to the Undercover Tourist, the best times to visit Universal over the next couple years will be weekdays during September through December with September being the best.

Our visit was in April and I’m sure the crowds weren’t bad compared to the summer months when school is out.

This is totally dependent on your preference. Do you plan on bringing a picnic and re-entering the park? Do you plan on buying souvenirs? Playing arcade games? Alcohol?

Another thing to think about is the CityWalk. Will you eat or shop here? The main extra expenses that you’ll have inside the park are food and souvenirs.

I would budget $60 per person per day especially if you’re doing two meals in the park. That will likely get you a snack too.

For souvenirs, I recommend setting a budget before you go. For example, I knew the only thing that I wanted was a refrigerator magnet and possibly a Christmas Tree ornament so my budget was around $25 for souvenirs.

Best Things to Do at Universal Studios Orlando for 2023

Okay here are some new things to do at Universal Studios plus some oldie but goodie memorable experiences that we had.

Number one – the Jurrasic World Velocicoaster is open! This looked like an absolutely epic ride so if you are a big coaster fan then check it out.

Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure TM , Escape from Gringotts TM , Revenge of the Mummy, Rip Ride Rockit TM , and the Hulk Coaster were our favorite rides. Again, these are for the big roller coaster fans!

Check out at least one of the shows while you’re here – they do a great job! Universal keeps a list of all the current shows.

Make sure to allow some time to explore city walk. It really is an attraction to itself. Grab some doughnuts at Voodoo Doughnuts where you can skip the line if you order on the Universal Studios app.

Do you love seasonal events? Then plan a trip to Universal around Halloween, the Holidays, or Mardi Gras! Check out their event list for other things throughout the year.

For Harry Potter fans, make sure you visit Hogsmeade at night if they are doing the light show at Hogwarts TM . They don’t do this every night though so ask an employee when you visit.

Oh and make sure you check out the Knight Bus TM right outside of Diagon Alley. Across from the bus, you’ll see 12 Grimmauld Place and if you hang out a bit you can catch Kreacher peeking out the window.

Make sure you eat all the Butterbeer in as many different ways as you can. Check out the Three Broomsticks for the atmosphere and Mythos is an award-winning restaurant in the park.

How to Get to Universal Studios Orlando

If you live in the southeast then you may consider a road trip to Orlando so you can drive to the park. Depending on where you live, Orlando is also a cheap place to fly into.

You can either fly into Orlando and rent a car or contact your hotel to see if they have a shuttle service from the airport. This will save you money, especially if you are staying at a Universal hotel.

Ubers are plentiful around Orlando in case you need to go somewhere other than the park. If you aren’t staying on property, many local hotels have a shuttle service that will take you to the park.

This just means you are at the mercy of the shuttle schedule or you’ll have to take an Uber depending on when you want to arrive and leave the park.

Other Things to Do Near Orlando

Here are a few fun things to do in Orlando or for day trips!

Museum of Illusions Ticket

Kennedy Space Center & Everglades Safari

Helicopter Night Tour Over Orlando Theme Parks

Crystal River Manatee Swim

Wekiva River Guided Kayak Tour

Things to Do in Everglades National Park

Where to Stay in Orlando

If Club Wyndham Bonnet Creek isn’t what you are looking for then check out the other Orlando hotels at the link below!

✅ Orlando Hotels on Booking.com ✅

WRap Up: Tips for Visiting Universal Orlando

I know that was a lot of info but I hope even one of these tips will help you! The most important tips for Universal Orlando are to figure out how to skip the crowds whether that is planning your vacation in the off-season or getting the Universal Express Passes and make sure you remember these budget tips!

I hope you’ll have a fantastic trip in Orlando and you’ve found these Universal Orlando tips for 2023 helpful.

Do you love theme parks? Here is a list of the best theme parks in the US !

Pin for later!

Anna is a North Carolina native who grew up traveling the southern US with her family. Now she is a full-time travel blogger who road trips the US and shares about outdoor adventures and epic things to do. Want to know more? Read her full story here.

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There are some really handy tips here! I visited a few years ago and we had tickets that lasted for 2 weeks as part of our holiday package and I really enjoyed the park.

Oh wow! That is really nice. It is such a fun park to visit.

Great tips! I heard they’re doing awesome deals on season passes too! I really want to go to Volcano Bay!

Thank you! Yes, they have some really good deals going right now. We didn’t make it to Volcano Bay but I’m sure it’s great!

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A Local’s Guide to Your First Time Visit to Universal Orlando Resort

EDITOR’S NOTE: This blog was originally published in October of 2019 and then underwent extensive updates and editing in the summer of 2021 to remain current and relevant.

Universal Orlando Resort is a place that allows you to explore the streets of Diagon Alley at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter , visit a real-life Raptor Encounter to meet Blue the Raptor , float down the Kopiko Wai Winding River at Volcano Bay , and finish with a cold beverage high in the sky at Bar 17 Bistro on top of Universal’s Aventura Hotel all in one day.

With so much to see and do, how can you get the most out of it during your first-time visit? Here’s a few first timer tips to get the most out of your upcoming visit.

WHAT TO EXPERIENCE AT UNIVERSAL STUDIOS FLORIDA

Have you ever watched a movie and said “I wish I could experience that movie in real life.” Well, we have some good news for you. Check out these must-do experiences straight from the movies:  

• Take a journey to the depths of Gringotts bank on the Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts ride
• Have your mind blown by the live action stunts during The Bourne Stuntacular
• Looking for a rip-roaring rush? Try the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
• Great for the family: Become a Minion on the Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
• Experience : Follow in Harry Potter’s footsteps as you enter into Diagon Alley – watch out for the fire breathing dragon
• Character Meet & Greet : Meet Optimus Prime , Bumblebee and Megatron
• Shopping : Find all things Universal and more at the Universal Studios Store
• Bonus : Journey from King’s Cross Station in Universal Studios Florida to Hogsmeade Station in Islands of Adventure aboard the Hogwarts Express (only available with a Park-to-Park admission ticket)

Great Places to Eat at Universal Studios Florida

• Quick Service:  “Hey Hey, Kids!” Visit Springfield, U.S.A. and stop by Krusty Burger for a fun atmosphere and great meal.
• Best View: Try an off-the-charts meal and take in an incredible view of the lagoon at Richter’s Burger Co.
• Best Atmosphere: Get your fill of Bangers and Mash, Fisherman’s Pie, Toad in the Hole and more at the Leaky Cauldron
• Romantic : Try Lombard’s Fresh Catch at Lombard’s Seafood Grille while you take in the nautical atmosphere on the docks of San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf
• Sweet Treats : Try a Dole Whip Pineapple Sorbet at Schwab’s Pharmacy

Click here to view a complete list of Universal Studios Florida rides, attractions, dining and more .

Here are some resources to help plan your day:

• Best Option – Download the Official Universal Orlando Resort App
• Visit Universal Studios Interactive Map or Download Universal Studios Map

LOCAL TIP |  Start at the back of the park and work your way counter-clockwise to the front to stay ahead of fellow guests and take full advantage of ride lines.

WHAT TO EXPERIENCE AT UNIVERSAL ISLANDS OF ADVENTURE

Get ready to encounter dinosaurs, fly high above city streets with a famous web slinger, visit a secret school of witchcraft and wizardry, come face-to-face with a colossal ape and more. Check out these must do experiences that give you a sense of adventure:

• Race alongside Velociraptors at 70 miles per hour on the new Jurassic World VelociCoaster
• For the first time ever you can join and fly into the Forbidden Forest on Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure , the epic new roller coaster in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
• Soar high above Hogwarts on Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
• Splash down on Jurassic Park River Adventure
• Feel the power and strength of becoming gamma-charged on The Incredible Hulk Coaster
• Character Meet & Greet : Take photos with your favorite Marvel characters – Spider-Man, Captain America, Cyclops, Wolverine, Storm, and Rogue along with classic villains like Dr. Doom and The Green Goblin in Marvel Super Hero Island at Universal Islands of Adventure
• Shopping : Witness a wand choose its wizard or witch at Ollivanders in Hogsmeade

Great Places to Eat at Islands of Adventure

• Quick Service: Enjoy a delicious meal at Three Broomsticks
• Best View: Eat while you watch daring riders get drenched at Thunder Falls Terrace in Jurassic Park
• Best Atmosphere: Dine with Super Heroes at Marvel’s Character Dinner at Marvel Super Hero Island in Islands of Adventure
• Romantic : Take in the spectacular view of the park’s inland sea and colorful lands from the award-winning Mythos Restaurant
• Sweet Treats : Pick up a delicious Butterbeer from Hog’s Head

Click here to view a complete list of Islands of Adventure rides, attractions, dining and more.

• Visit Islands Of Adventure Interactive Map or Download The Islands Of Adventure Map
• Start your day off in Hogsmeade and work your way clockwise around the park to take advantage of wait times and attractions.

WHAT TO EXPERIENCE AT UNIVERSAL VOLCANO BAY

• Take the 70-degree fall through a drop door on the Ko’okiri Body Plunge
• Think your brave? Try taking on the Kala & Tai Nui Serpentine Body Slides
• Take on the twists, turns and drops of the Ohno of Ohyah & Ohno Drop Slides
• Grab 3 of your friends for a wild on the wild side with the Honu of the Honu ika Moana
• Experience: Float down the and relax on the Kopiko Wai Winding River or take on the challenge of TeAwa The Fearless River
• Experience : Lay out with a cold drink on Waturi Beach and take in that volcano view
• Shopping : Pick yourself up a soft Volcano Bay beach towel from the Waturi Marketplace
• Bonus : Relax, unwind and enjoy the charms of your own private cabana in paradise with extra-comfy seating, concierge service and more

Great Places to Eat at Volcano Bay

• Quick Service : Taste the tropics at Kohola Reef Restaurant & Social Club
• Best View: Take in that incredible view at the Dancing Dragons Boat Bar
• Tasty : Try the Mango BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich at Kohola Reef Restaurant & Social Club . It’s delicious!
• Best Atmosphere: Soak it all in from Whakawaiwai Eats with a pizza

Click here to view a complete list of Volcano Bay rides, dining and more.

• Visit Volcano Bay Interactive Map or Download The Volcano Bay Map  
• First, plan to arrive early to Volcano Bay and secure that perfect beach chair with that incredible view. TapuTapu will also make your day easy. This wearable device that holds your place in lines, activates interactive surprises, makes cash-free payments and more.
• Stay at a Universal hotel and enjoy early park admission to Universal Volcano Bay one hour before the park opens (valid theme park admission required).

WHAT TO EXPERIENCE AT UNIVERSAL CITYWALK

Get ready to indulge in some of the most mouthwatering food with refreshing drinks, shop until you drop and dance the night away at Universal CityWalk. Check out these must-do experiences for a day or night out:

• Show : Belt out your favorite tunes with help from talented backup singers and a live band at Universal CityWalk’s Rising Star
• Experience: Challenge your friends to a round of mini golf at Hollywood Drive-In Golf or grab a cold beverage at the Lone Palm Airport at Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville
• Shopping : Forgot your vacation collectibles? Swing by the Universal Studios Store
• Bonus : Check out a show at the Hard Rock Live or catch an afternoon movie at Cinemark

Great Places to Eat at Universal CityWalk

• Quick Service : Try the best thing since sliced bread at Bread Box Handcrafted Sandwiches
• Best View: Enjoy a sunset while eating a Burgushi at The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar
• Best Atmosphere : Enjoying a Cheeseburger in Paradise at Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville
• Romantic : Indulge in true italian cuisine at VIVO Italian Kitchen
• Sweet Treat: Try one-of-a-kind delectables like the Dirt Doughnut, the Memphis Mafia and the Bacon Maple Bar at Voodoo Doughnut

Click here to view full list of entertainment, shopping and dining options at Universal CityWalk.

Here are some resources to help plan your visit:

• Visit Universal Studios Interactive Map or Download The CityWalk Map
• Take advantage of the FREE self-parking after 6PM!(Not valid during Halloween Horror Nights. Additional restrictions may apply and are subject to change without notice)
• Free parking available with a purchase of two (2) Universal CityWalk Matinee tickets.

WHERE TO STAY AT UNIVERSAL ORLANDO RESORT

There’s a Universal Orlando hotel for every family style and budget. Take a look at all the amazing places you can stay so close to the theme parks:

Premier Hotels – $$$$

Loews portofino bay hotel.

Relax in surroundings inspired by the beauty, romance and charm of the picturesque seaside village of Portofino, Italy.

• Experience: Treat yourself to a day at the Mandara Spa
• Feature: Spend an enchanted evening with live music and traditional opera as you sip wine and sample gourmet fare during Harbor Nights . Additionally, enjoy nightly festive melodies with Musica Della Notte , a unique blend of classic opera, festive melodies, and “popera” favorites
• Dining: Feel like you’re part of the family at Mama Della’s Ristorante with authentic Italian cooking and strolling musicians
• Benefits : Free Universal Express Unlimited, early park admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter & Universal Volcano Bay, free transportation, priority seating at restaurants and more

Learn more about Loews Portofino Bay Hotel

Hard Rock Hotel

Live like a rock star and savor the perks of rock ‘n’ roll royalty with impeccable surroundings, laid-back style and show-stopping service.

• Experience: Attend a monthly award-winning “ Velvet Sessions ” with an up-close and personal rock concert. Past performers include Bret Michaels, Eddie Money, Joan Jett, and more
• Feature: Take a self-guided Music Memorabilia tour and discover Elvis’ pajamas, John Lennon’s suit, Paul McCartney’s guitar, Lady GaGa’s leather outfit, Rihanna’s bodysuit and more
• Feature : Discover The Sound of Your Stay™ program with A-list perks. tracks.®, lets you stream a celebrity-curated playlists to amplify your stay. picks® allows you to choose from a menu of 20 different Fender® guitars that can be delivered to your room (down payment and loan agreement required)
• Dining: Stop by The Kitchen and dig into their famous mac and cheese. But don’t forget the encore – they’ve got some of the most jaw-dropping desserts you’ve ever seen

Learn more about the Hard Rock Hotel

Loews Royal Pacific Resort

Get swept away in an exotic south seas paradise with tropical wonders, exotic foods, and carefree fun.

• Feature: Experience weekly Wantilan Luau firsthand with an evening of authentic Polynesian food and entertainment at this exciting dinner show
• Dining : Visit Jake’s American Bar where you can try fabled South Seas explorer Jake McNally themed favorites including island cocktails, Jake’s American Red Lager and the B-1 Bomber Burger

Learn more about Loews Royal Pacific Resort

Preferred Hotel – $$$

Loews sapphire falls resort.

Escape to the feeling of being in paradise with the calming sounds of steel drums, swaying palm trees, scenic views, and blue cascading waterfalls.

• Experience: Take in the incredible 16,000-square-foot pool with a sand beach, hot tub, water slide and more
• Dining: Try Caribbean-inspired cuisine at Amatista Cookhouse or stop by the Strong Water Tavern for rare vintage rums and tapas-style dining options
• Benefits : Early park admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter & Volcano Bay, free transportation & Universal Volcano Bay, located steps away from Volcano Bay, and more

Learn more about Loews Sapphire Falls Resort

Prime Value Hotels – $$

Universal’s aventura hotel.

It’s your chill zone, your party place, your hangout, your refuge. And the best part, it’s perfectly priced.

• Feature: Enjoy a drink with a view high in the sky at Bar 17 Bistro
• Dining: Have a chef cook up a custom wok dish right in front of you at the Urban Pantry
• Benefits : Early park admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter & Universal Volcano Bay, free transportation, steps away from Volcano Bay, and more

Learn more about Universal’s Aventura Hotel

Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort

Enjoy vibrant, retro-style with rooms and suites brilliantly designed for fun and affordability.

• Experience: Take on a friend at Galaxy Bowl and when you’re finished, head over to the Ace The Arcade for an overtime match of timeless arcade favorites
• Feature: Have a relaxing day floating down Cabana Bay’s lazy river while you soak up that warm Florida sunshine
• Dining: Try a wide variety of food stations including deli items, pizzas, burgers, salads and desserts at the Bayliner Diner

Learn more about Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort

Value Hotel – $

Universal’s endless summer resort – surfside inn and suites.

Step into the extra affordable surf lifestyle with beach-themed standard rooms, spacious two-bedroom suites, and more.

• Experience: Kick back in the surfboard-shaped pool and soak in the sunshine
• Feature: Check out the spacious, two- bedroom suites that sleep up to six
• Dining : Stop by the food court for a wide variety of great food options or have a fresh-made pizza pie delivered directly to your room
• Benefits : Early park admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter & Universal Volcano Bay, free transportation and more

Learn More about Surfside Inn and Suites

Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites

Inspired by sand, sea and breathtaking sunsets, this extra affordable retreat features two-bedroom suites, two large pools and more.

• Experience: Soak in the sunshine at one of the two large pools with a beautiful sandy beach – how cool
• Feature: Check out the spacious, two-bedroom suites that sleep up to six
• Dining: Stop by the food court for a wide variety of flavorful food for every palate. On the go? No problem. There are plenty of grab-and-go options available

Learn More about Dockside Inn and Suites

THINGS TO KNOW

You might know about all the amazing experiences you’d like to try at Universal Orlando, but now let’s take a look at few ways you can get the most out of your first time trip with a few local planning tips.

Express Pass – Get to the Fun Faster

Want to get the most out of your visit? Check out a few of the Express Pass options available so you can skip the regular lines at most of your favorite rides and attractions to get the most out of your day at the parks.

Did you know you the Express Pass is included FREE when you stay at a Universal Premier category hotel? Check out the details here .

Plan Your Entire Trip with Ease Using the Official Universal Mobile App

Imagine having your own travel guide to give you every bit of important information you need to get the most out of your first-time visit. That is what the official Universal Orlando Resort App provides!

What can the Universal Orlando Resort mobile app do?

• The app can become your Virtual Wallet
• You can find everything you need including ride wait times, showtimes, dining venue hours and more
• Create your own personal “to-do” list of favorites
• Always be in the know with the latest park updates
• Order meals on the go with ease
• What else can you do with the App? Find out here

WHAT TO BRING

Let’s dive into a few tips to help you decide what to bring during your first-time visit to the theme parks.

Backpacks and Shoulder Bags

Can you bring a bag or backpack to Universal Orlando Resort? Absolutely! A small, soft-sided bag is perfect for toting your essentials around while exploring the theme parks.

Potential Items To Add To Bag Include:

• Rain poncho or jacket
• Refillable water bottle

Check out the What To Pack For A Day At Universal Orlando Resort for more great tips on what to bring to the theme parks.

TAKING PHOTOS AT THE THEME PARKS

Can you bring a camera to Universal Orlando Resort? Of course! You are about to have some of the best times of your life and what better way to remember those moments than incredible photos to take home with you.

LOCAL TIP | Since it’s your first time visiting the theme parks, check out the My Universal Photos options, so you can focus on the fun while they focus on capturing your best moments.

WHAT TO WEAR

Florida is a tricky place when it comes to weather. Most of the time it’s warm and sunny, but there are those occasional days that cause us to break out our coats. Regardless, it’s good to be prepared.  

• Check the Weather: Take a moment to check the weather forecast before heading to the theme parks
• Fashion or Comfort: Of course you want to look fashionable in all of the Instagram photos you are planning on taking, but keep in mind to be comfortable as your day may include lots of walking and standing in the heat
• Which Shoes to Wear: Try to wear a shoe that is breathable and comfortable

Check out the full list of Frequently Asked Questions on what to bring to the theme parks.

Did we miss anything? Tell us about some of your theme park first-timer tips in the comments below! And make sure to share your tips on Twitter , Facebook or Instagram with #ReadyForUniversal or ask for help with #AskUniversal.

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Derek is a member of the Universal Orlando Content + Engagement Team. Imported from Detroit with a passion for storytelling, filmmaking, and adventure.

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The Best Universal Orlando Tips 2024

This article is your complete guide to the 25 best U niversal Studios tips!  In this article, we’ll cover some of the best Universal Studios Orlando tips and tricks to help save you time in the morning, money on express passes, picking the right time of year to visit and so much more. 

Since we’ve been going to Universal for over 20 years, we’ve really learned the best Universal Orlando tips. Such as picking the right shoes for your day in the parks and using the Universal Orlando single riders line!

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 our discounted multi-day Universal Orlando tickets and Universal Orlando vacation package deals which include EARLY PARK ADMISSION to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!

So if you’re ready to learn all about the best tips for visiting Universal Orlando read on!

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

Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar

Tips for Universal Studios Orlando 2024

Before we dive into our list of the 25 best Universal Orlando tips and tricks let’s the best tip for Universal vacationers.  Plan you visit during the slower times of the year! Guests will get the most out of their Universal Orlando vacation by giving thought to visiting during one of the slower times of the year, always buying their park tickets in advance , considering staying at an on-site Universal Orlando hotel, give thought to if your group would like to upgrade the express pass, always have a game plan or park plan going into your day, and always take advantage of early park admission when possible!

The Best Universal Orlando Tips

• Plan your stroller or electric vehicle options
• Download The Universal Orlando App / Bring a battery charger
• Check Showtimes and Character Meet and Greets on the Universal App
• Wear The Correct Shoes For Theme Parks
• Prepare for Universal Water Rides
• Be Prepared for Motion Sickness

Know the Height Requirements Ahead of Time

• Don’t Skip the Universal Orlando Single Rider Line
• Don’t Ride the First Ride You See
• Give Some Thought to Universal Orlando  Special Events

Consider a Refillable Universal Popcorn Bucket

• Check Out Food Options Before you Arrive and Make Advanced Reservations
• Know How to Ride the Hogwarts Express

Upgrade and Buy an Interactive Wand

Upgrade to an on-site universal orlando hotel.

• Know What to Pack for the Universal Orlando Parks

Create a Park Plan

Know what’s new at universal orlando, try to avoid the crowds when possible, use early park admission, combine the express pass with early park admission when possible.

Related Page: How Do You Get The Express Pass For Free

Plan Your Stroller or Electric Vehicle Options 

We are going to start our list of the best Universal O rlando tips and tricks with one to save you time in the morning and this would be to understand how to rend stroller and electric vehicles. Guests will be happy to know that they can rent strollers, wheelchairs, and electric convenience vehicles upon entry to both Islands of Adventure Park and Universal Studios Florida. The rental locations will be direct to the left side of each park’s entrance. Guests who do need additional assistance from the parking garage can also rent a wheelchair from the parking garage as well. 

• The scooters cost $50/day plus a $50 deposit. 
• A single stroller is $15/day and doubles are $25/day plus a $50 deposit

We would say that the most important tip to understand here is for guests who plan to rent an electric vehicle we highly suggest calling Universal at least one week before your arrival to see if you can place a hold on one of the electric scooters because they can sell out. The Universal Orlando guest service number is 407-224-4233. Guests can also look to take advantage of one of the stroller and electric vehicle rental companies in the Orlando area which will deliver either directly to your hotel upon your arrival.

Related Page: Guide to Stroller Rentals at Disney World 

Download The Universal Orlando App / Bring a Battery Charger 

Another one of our favorite U niversal Studios Florida tips is always to download the Universal Orlando App before you arrive at the parks. We feel like this will simply save you so much time in the morning and you can focus on your park plan (which we will discuss in a bit) and not have to worry about connecting to wifi to download anything. Not only do we recommend downloading the app but we also recommend getting familiar with exactly how the app works so that you are ready to use it to its full potential during your time in the parks. Check out our video on the best tips for the Universal Orlando app right here! 

Another important Universal tip is to make sure that you bring a battery charger to recharge your phone throughout the day. Guests can bring a portable charger from home to save some money or you can take advantage of the “Fuel-Rod” charges throughout the park. You can purchase a fuel rod for $30 and when it goes dead, swap it out for a fully charged one. You can also purchase these fuel rods on Amazon so you have it ahead of time. The fuel rods are also rechargeable via USB cord so you can always charge it that way as well. This is one of the best Orlando Universal tips , as the heat also makes your phone die faster, especially with excessive use! 

Related Page: How to Ride Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure 

Check Showtimes and Character Meet and Greets on the Universal App 

Okay, now that you have downloaded the Universal Orlando App our next tip and trick for visiting Universal is to take advantage of the different shows and Universal Orlando character meet and greets within the parks. We thought this was worth mentioning because we feel like Disney World gets most of the fame when it comes to amazing shows. Still, Universal Studios Florida is an entire park dedicated to the history of movies. Our favorite show is the Bourne Stuntacular in Universal Studios. Another reason why it’s so important to use the App when trying to find the best shows is that Universal will sometimes not release the show schedule to their website and the only way to know if a show might be happening that night is by looking on the App or by speaking with a Universal team member. 

The Universal app actually has a lot of useful information and can allow you to have a personal park guide right in your hand.

Related Page: Guide to all Disney World Character Meet and Greets 

Wear The Correct Shoes For Theme Parks 

If you have ever been to a theme park, you know how much walking goes on. Universal is no different, especially Islands of Adventure. This park is one big loop so to get from one land to the next you must go through all of the other lands, there are no cut-throughs. This means you will be walking a lot so you will want to make sure you have comfortable shoes or sneakers to prepare for walking. One of the other tips and tricks I have picked up from participating in some of the RunDisney and Universal Orlando races throughout the years is to break your shoes in. So we would suggest making sure that you purchase your shoes a few weeks in advance and wear them for a few days before your trip to Orlando. 

Related Article: List of the Best Rides at Universal Orlando

Prepare for Universal Water Rides 

We think some of the best rides at Universal involve getting you soaked! Universal has a few water rides most of them are located in Islands of Adventure and they are Popeye and Bluto’s Bilge Rat Barges, Dudley Do Right’s Rip Saw Falls, and Jurassic Park River Adventure. These rides are a blast, especially on a hot day, you are going to be happy to ride them. That being said you will get soaked, especially on Popeyes, so one of our favorite Universal Orlando tips and tricks is that we recommend bringing a change of socks so you can at least have dry feet for the rest of the day. They also have “human dryers” for $5 per cycle. You can get a little drier in these.

Related Page: Complete Guide to all Universal Orlando Water Rides

Be Prepared for Motion Sickness 

We feel like this might be one of the most important tips for visiting Universal Orlando and that is aware that many rides can cause motion sickness. This is especially true for the popular ride Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey . So if you are prone to motion sickness we highly recommend skipping some of the rides or bringing Dramamine from home which always helps me go on my favorite rides in the parks. We would also say that it could be worth waiting in the queue with the rest of your party just because of how immersive many of the queues are at Universal Orlando and then you can simply let a team member know at the front of the line that you would not like to ride. 

Additional Universal TIP – First aid stations located around the park do have Dramamine in case you forget to take some for motion sickness however, in our experience, they had only the drowsy Dramamine.

Related Page: Guide to Visiting Harry Potter World

This is another one of our top tips for Universal Studios Orlando especially with families visiting with young children and that is to make sure you understand the Universal Orlando height requirements for each ride. This is especially true for Universal over Disney as we feel Universal is more geared towards the thrill rides which in our experience have taller height requirements. We also know that there is nothing worse than getting expectations up and not being able to ride the attraction once you get to the parks. We always suggest keeping in mind that y ou can always use child swap if some members of your party would like to ride the attraction that a child is too small for or just rather skip.  You can switch riders while someone stays behind to watch the kids. The next person doesn’t have to wait in line to get on the ride after swapping riders.

Related Page: Guide to Visiting Universal Orlando With Kids

Don’t Skip the Universal Orlando Single Rider Line 

The single rider line is another great Universal S tudios tip and trick for families who have some members who would like to go on a ride and others who would like to skip it. And just like it sounds it allows one member to go onto a shorter line to get onto one of the popular attractions faster. Now, w ith the Universal Orlando single rider line , your party will most likely be split up. However, this can cut your wait time down by a lot, giving you more time to have fun in the parks. Not all attractions have single rider lines but if it does and you don’t mind being split up, it may help you save time.

As Passholders, we love popping into the parks and using Single Riders Lines to get through all of our favorite rides quickly. It’s one of the best hidden Universal tips for those who love to ride attractions but hate waiting in excessive lines!

Related Page: Guide to the Universal Orlando Virtual Queue 

Don’t Ride the First Ride You See 

Another one of our favorite top tips for Universal Studios Orlando that we give when helping families create their park plans is to skip the first ride you see in the parks. This is especially true for Universal Studios Orlando and Despicable Me Minion Mayhem which usually has a long wait because it is the first ride you see when you enter the park. For this reason, we always recommend heading to Diagon Alley first to get on Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts. We will say the one time when we do believe that this Universal Orlando tip does not matter is when you have early park admission which we will cover in a bit! 

Related Page: Complete Guide to all Universal Orlando New Rides

Give Some Thought to Universal Orlando Special Events 

Did you know that Universal Orlando has some amazing special events throughout the year? We would say to always take a look at the Universal Orlando event calendar while planning your trip just to get an idea of some of the amazing events throughout the year. And this is a very important tip and trick for visiting Universal Orlando for two reasons with the first being that we typically will see more people in the parks during many of these events and the second being that one of these events might be something that you would really enjoy such as Halloween Horror Nights or Christmas at Universal Orlando. The other cool thing is that events such as Universal Mardi Gras and Christmas are included in your park admission ticket absolutely free.

• January – Rock The Universe (Christian Music Festival)
• February – March – Universal Orlando Mardi Gras 
• September – October – Halloween Horror Nights 
• November – December –  Universal Orlando Holiday Celebration  

Related Page: Guide to Universal Orlando During Christmas

Get Celebration Buttons

This is another great tip and trick for the Universal Parks for anyone visiting with someone celebrating a special occasion such as a Universal Orlando birthday or anniversary. And very simply Universal has celebration buttons that guests can wear around the park and possibly receive some special happy birthdays or congratulations. Guests can stop by guest relations to see if they do have any celebration buttons and the best part is they are absolutely free! 

Related Page: Guide to a Universal Orlando Birthday 

This is a great tip for going to Universal Studios Orlando on a budget and that is to buy a refillable Universal Orlando popcorn bucket. The main reason is that Universal Orlando popcorn buckets start at $12.99 and refills are only $2 each throughout your vacation. So as you can see this can be a very affordable way for a large family to share popcorn throughout your entire vacation. It’s also important to note that Universal does have some very cool themed popcorn buckets which start at $28.00 for characters like the Minions and the Grinch, and these buckets also come with the same $2 refill cost. 

Related Page: How to Visit Universal Orlando For Cheap 

Check Out Food Options Before you Arrive and Make Advanced Reservations 

There is nothing worse than being hot and hungry in a park, trust us we’ve been there. For this reason, we always suggest taking a look at the restaurants and menus before you arrive to the parks. This is especially true for any families traveling with dietary restrictions, and you will be happy to know that many of the restaurants in the parks will be able to accommodate you. Guests can also use the mobile ordering feature on the Universal Orlando app to save even more time once they are inside of the parks and a few of our favorite quick-service restaurants in the parks are Thunder Falls Terrace in Islands of Adventure and Krusty Burger in Universal Studios. We also highly suggest making dining reservations for any of the best sit-down Universal restaurants in advance even if you are visiting during one of the slower times of the year. 

You can even mobile order from a few restaurants in CityWalk , which we highly recommend for the best tips for Universal Studios Orlando .

Related post:  Complete Guide to CityWalk Bars and Clubs

Know How to Ride the Hogwarts Express 

It’s important to note that the Hogwarts Express is not just an ordinary ride, you will need a universal park-to-park ticket to ride this attraction since it picks you up in one park and drops you off in another. So this Universal Orlando tip has to do with getting familiar with the Universal Orlando ticket options and trying to think about which one is the best fit for your family. As a general rule of thumb, we always suggest starting with the base ticket if you are unsure if you want to go park-to-park or even ride the Hogwarts Express. The main reason is that you can always add the park-to-park option on once you get down to Orlando with the only real downside being that you would have to take time out of your day to upgrade your ticket. On the flip side, the Hogwarts Express is an immersive experience that we believe every Harry Potter fan will truly love. 

Additional Universal Studios Tip – be sure to ride it both ways for different ride experiences

Related Page: The Cheapest Universal Orlando Park-to-Park Tickets

This is another one of our favorite tips and tricks for Universal Studios  for families visiting with young children. Guests  who would like to make the most out of their wizarding world experience can purchase an interactive wand in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. With an interactive wand, witches and wizards can cast spells around Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley. We have a full video showcasing everything you need to know about the interactive wands on our YouTube channel, be sure to check it out here! Overall we feel like this is a great activity for the entire family to enjoy and get the little ones involved as there might not be a full day’s worth of rides depending on how you are visiting the parks. 

It’s also important to keep in mind that if you do want to purchase a wand, Ollivanders is not the only place to do so. Ollivanders is usually a very long line so if you don’t want to wait, you can purchase your wand at various other locations in the wizarding world or even the Universal Studios store at the front of both parks or the big Universal Studios store in CityWalk.

Related Page: Universal Orlando Harry Potter Robes

One of the reasons why we love this U niversal Studios planning tip is that ALL of the Universal hotels have great benefits like early park admission, free and easy Universal transportation to and from the parks, free merchandise delivery back to the resort, and resort-wide charging privileges! Last but not least we would say that one of the coolest benefits that is not offered at Disney is the ability to pool hop over at the Universal Orlando hotels!

There are 8 different Universal Orlando hotels that range from budget-friendly to luxury in style for guests to choose from. The best Universal Studios tip 2024 of them all is booking at a Premier hotel and getting Express Pass Unlimited for free for everyone registered in the hotel room.

Related Page: The Best Universal Orlando Hotels for Families

Know What to Pack for the Universal Orlando Parks  

When preparing for your visit to Universal Studios Orlando, carefully considering what to pack is a valuable tip that offers both cost and time savings. By bringing essential items from home, you can avoid the need to purchase them at inflated prices within the park. Some key items to pack include sunscreen, ponchos, reusable water bottles, lanyards, backpacks, and snacks. Bringing your own sunscreen not only saves money but ensures you have a familiar brand that suits your skin needs. Packing ponchos can prove beneficial, as sudden rain showers are not uncommon in Orlando. By having reusable water bottles on hand, you can refill them at water fountains throughout the park, reducing the need to purchase expensive bottled beverages.

Lanyards are convenient for holding park tickets, ensuring easy access at entry points. Additionally, bringing backpacks allows you to carry personal belongings comfortably and securely. Finally, having your preferred snacks on hand can save both time and money, as you can enjoy quick and affordable bites throughout the day. By packing these items and other essentials, you’ll be well-prepared, save on expenses, and optimize your time for an enjoyable experience at Universal Studios Orlando.

Related post:  Complete Guide to Best Universal Studios Pool

Coming up with a park plan for your time in the parks might be the most important Universal Orlando tip and trick on this list. We would suggest watching some YouTube videos, looking at park maps and even a list of all of the Universal Orlando rides before your trip to get a feel for what you would enjoy the most. You can even team up with a company like The Park Prodigy where all of our clients who purchase discount Universal Orlando tickets can ask us to create a custom park plan for their trip absolutely free!

We feel like having a park plan going into your day will allow you to focus on going on the rides that you have your heart set on in an optimized order so you won’t be confused or overwhelmed once you arrive at the parks.

Related Page: Hogsmeade Vs Diagon Alley

Last summer, Universal Orlando opened a new attraction – Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast. Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast is an interactive, blaster game experience that will invite guests to put their villainous skills to the test as they compete against each other in a bid to join the ranks of the franchise’s most infamous supervillains. Villain-Con Minion Blast combines innovative screen technology, state-of-the-art gaming interactivity and elaborate physical sets to create a one-of-a-kind, game-based adventure where guests encounter immersive environments, nefarious villains and tons of mischievous Minions from Illumination’s films in a whole new way. This is all a part of a newly opened “Minion Land” This new area is home to the fan-favorite Despicable Me Minion Mayhem attraction, Minion Café, Freeze Ray Pops, Illumination meet and greet and more! 

Looking to 2024, guests can expect to see the opening of the brand new “Dreamworks Land” replacing Woody Woodpecker’s Kidzone. Guests can enjoy time with their favorite Dreamworks characters like Shrek, Donkey, Trolls and more.

Related Page: How to Ride the VelociCoaster 

This is one of our favorite tips and tricks for Universal Orlando as we feel like it will help save you a ton of time in the parks if you can take advantage of it, and that is try to pick one of the slower times of year at Universal Orlando. As a general rule of thumb, these slower times will be right after the holiday breaks and the times that you will want to avoid are typical: 

• Winter Break: Typically the second week in February
• Spring Break: The first week of March through the third week of April
• Memorial Day Weekend: The entire week leading up to Memorial Day
• Summer Vacation: Specifically the third week of June through July
• Thanksgiving Break: The entire week before and after
• Christmas Break: The third full week of December until after January 1st

Related Page: What is the Best Day to Visit Universal Orlando

Know When to Buy the Express Pass 

Continuing on with the best time to visit Universal, we know that it’s not always realistic that you’re able to visit at the perfect time which is why you might be wondering if the Universal Express pass is the right fit for you. And we would say if your plan is only to visit Universal Orlando for one or two days and you want to get on absolutely every ride then the express pass might be a good fit for you. We also always recommend shopping around and looking at the Universal Orlando Express Pass combo tickets or even upgrading to one of the Universal Orlando premier resorts where the express passes are included for free. And one additional tip regarding staying at a Universal Orlando premier resort would be that the express pass is included on both your check-in and check-out day! 

Tip –  It’s also important to note that the further in advance you purchase Express Pass, the cheaper it will be. The price is dependent on the day you pick and the price goes up the closer it gets to the date. Sometimes Express Passes will even sell out for certain days so if you know you want it, I wouldn’t hesitate.

Related Page: How to Get the Express Pass For Free?

This is by far our favorite U niversal Orlando tip and that is to make sure you use early park admission when you can! Very simply this will save you so much time by avoiding long lines later on in the day as early park admission is really for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter which has some of the most popular rides. Early park admission also includes the newest ride the VelociCoaster which is another extremely popular ride. Very simply we have seen that getting on 1-2 of the most popular rides can help save families up to three hours later in the day. We would also say that guests can take advantage of Ollivander’s Wand shop and enjoy the Wizarding World of Harry Potter with little to no crowds as well during this time so we really feel like it’s a great opportunity for every family. 

Related Page: How to Get Early Park Admission 

In our opinion, this is the best combination of any theme park benefits within both Universal Orlando and Disney World and that would be to combine your Universal Express Pass with early park admission. The main reason would be that there are three rides that are not included with the Universal Express pass and two of those rides are included with early park admission when Universal’s Islands of Adventure open. So our Universal Studios Orlando tip would be if you see that Islands of Adventure open and you have both the Universal Express Pass and early park admission then you should visit Hagrid’s and the VelociCoaster during early admission because you cannot use your Express Pass on these rides later in the day. On the flip side you can then focus on all of the rides that do accept the Universal Orlando Express pass later in the day to make sure you’re getting the most out of that ticket.

Related post:  Complete Guide to the Lockers at Universal Orlando

Universal Studios Tips FAQ

Q: What are the best tips for maximizing my time at Universal Orlando?

A: To make the most of your time, arrive early, and take advantage of the park’s Early Park Admission if you’re staying at a Universal hotel. Use the Universal Orlando app to plan your day, prioritize popular attractions, and take advantage of single rider lines for quicker access. Utilize the Virtual Line feature for select attractions to minimize wait times.

Q: Are there any strategies for avoiding long lines at Universal Orlando?

A: Yes! Consider visiting during off-peak seasons or weekdays when crowds are generally smaller. Take advantage of the park’s Express Pass, which provides access to shorter lines for participating attractions. Alternatively, make use of Single Rider lines if you don’t mind riding separately from your group.

Q: What should I pack for a visit to Universal Orlando?

A: Essential items to pack include sunscreen, ponchos, comfortable shoes, portable phone chargers, and a refillable water bottle. Bringing your own snacks, such as granola bars or small treats, can save both time and money.

Q: Are there any dining tips for Universal Orlando?

A: Make dining reservations in advance for popular restaurants to secure your preferred dining times. Consider purchasing a Universal Dining Plan if you plan to enjoy multiple meals at the parks. Also, explore mobile ordering through the Universal Orlando app to save time and skip the lines at quick-service restaurants.

Q: How can I make the most of my experience in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter?

A: Arrive early to experience the themed lands with fewer crowds. Consider purchasing a Park-to-Park ticket to access both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, allowing you to ride the Hogwarts Express between the two parks. Don’t miss iconic attractions like Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey and Escape from Gringotts.

Q: What is the best way to stay informed about showtimes, ride closures, and other important updates?

A: Download the Universal Orlando app, which provides up-to-date information on attraction wait times, show schedules, and ride closures. Follow Universal Orlando’s official social media accounts for real-time updates and announcements.

Q: Are there any tips for traveling with children at Universal Orlando?

A: Take advantage of child swap options for rides that have height restrictions so that both parents can experience the attractions. Utilize the child care facilities and play areas available in the parks. Consider bringing a stroller or renting one for younger children to ensure their comfort 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 are planning a trip to Universal Orlando be sure to check out our discounted multi-day Universal Orlando tickets and Universal Orlando vacation package deals which include EARLY PARK ADMISSION to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!

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

Who We Recommend

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Michael Belmont

Michael Belmont is the owner and chief editor at Theparkprodigy.com, an authorized Disney and Universal travel agency which has won the award for the fastest growing online travel agency by Travel Quest Network. He specializes in Disney and Universal theme park tickets and vacation packages, as well as daily park plans to help optimize vacation time. Michael and The Park Prodigy have been featured on ABC’s Florida affiliate, WTFV, as well as over 10 Disney focused blogs. As owner, Michael manages The Park Prodigy blog and social media, a Disney themed podcast, and a Disney and Universal focused YouTube channel. Prior to starting The Park Prodigy, Michael was a long time Disney and Universal enthusiast, frequent visitor of the parks, and even served as a Walt Disney World Cast Member in Orlando, Florida!

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45 (Quick!) Universal Studios Tips Perfect For Your First Visit

This post may contain affiliate links, view our disclosure policy .

Hold on tight (and take notes!) as we go over 45 Universal Studios tips that are absolutely essential to know before your first visit!

With Universal Orlando Resort being among the best theme parks in the world, it’s so important to know the tips and tricks necessary to maximize your visit and get the most from your experience.

You’re in for a treat as you begin to explore these Universal Studios tips and secrets while gearing up for the family vacation of a lifetime!

This post may contain affiliate links, which means that we may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link.   For more info, see disclosure.

Table of Contents

Tips for Universal Studios Orlando

In case you’re confused like I was, Universal Orlando Resort consists of 3 parks: Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay waterpark.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is located in both Universal Studios (Diagon Alley) and Islands of Adventure (Hogsmeade).

Each of the 3 parks has a separate ticketed entry, though park-to-park tickets are available if you’re looking to explore them all.

Our tips for Universal Studios Orlando are organized into the following categories that include tips for:

• Planning your visit
• Purchasing tickets
• Parking & arrival
• Touring tips
• Rides & shows
• Food & beverage
• The Wizarding World of Harry Potter tips
• Universal Orlando on-site hotel perks

Each of the tips in these categories is meant to give you a brief overview (hence ‘quick tips’) of the fun and important things to know when visiting Universal Studios.

For more information, or for a deeper look into your visit, be sure to visit the Universal Orlando Resort homepage. Likewise, be sure to review their current safety guidelines regarding the ongoing pandemic.

Universal Studios Tips: Planning Your Visit

• Study the best times to visit. Crowds are highest when schools are on break (ie. Spring Break and Christmas). Find out how to beat the heat if visiting in June, July, or August, as the temperatures can be unbearable. Visit in September through January (minus holidays) for the fewest crowds and best prices.

2. Watch for ticket deals and special offers. The prices of Universal Studios Orlando tickets rise and fall based on season and demand, so it’s best to purchase them a few months early. Likewise, consider checking into the availability of discounted Universal Orlando tickets , as well as consulting with a travel agent for specials or promotions.

3. Decide on where to stay. This will largely depend on what perks you’re looking for and how much you’re willing to spend. Choices range from Universal Orlando Premier Resorts (most expensive, many perks), Universal Orlando hotels (some perks), off-site hotels (affordable), or vacation rental homes (more space).

Our choice, Loews Royal Pacific Resort , a Universal Premier Resort that is a 7-minute walk from the theme parks!

4. Check the ride height requirements. Find out which rides are right for you and your family before you go. Prepare your smaller children for the rides that they are, and are not going to be tall enough to ride to avoid meltdowns once there.

5. Don’t stress about not having a stroller. There are single ($18) and double strollers ($28) for rent upon entering the Universal Theme Parks, or you can bring your own. Mark your stroller in order to recognize it and be sure to park it in the Stroller Parking at rides.

6. Watch the Harry Potter movie series before you go. Purchase the Harry Potter 8-film collection (like we did!) and be sure to watch the entire series before you go. Having an understanding of all things Harry Potter makes the experience so much better!

Universal Studios Tips: Purchasing Tickets

1. Know your ticket options. If you only want to visit 1 park for 1 day, get the basic (least expensive) 1 park ticket. If you want to ride the Hogwarts Express between Hogsmeade Station and King’s Cross Station, you’ll need a Park-to-Park Ticket. When visiting multiple marks for multiple days, get Multi-Park, Park-to-Park tickets.

2. Buy your tickets in advance. Lines at the ticket counter are long at park opening. Pre-purchase your tickets online to save money and avoid standing in line at the ticket counter.

3. Children under 3 are free. Take notes that there is no park admission fee for children under 3 years old. Child prices apply to children ages 3-9, and adult prices ages apply to guests 10+.

4. Determine if you want to spend extra money to get Universal Express Pass. Universal Express Pass allows you to bypass the standard line at rides and attractions and get into a shorter, quicker, Express line. Universal Express Pass is a ticket add-on, meaning that it’s an additional cost to standard park tickets. The add-on can be purchased ahead of time, once you’re in the park, or comes free when you stay at a Universal Premier Resort (more on that coming up).

Read here to see if we think Universal Express Passes are worth it !

5. Purchase a lanyard. You will want the convenience of storing both your park tickets (for park-to-park access) and Express Passes (to be scanned at each ride) in a lanyard. They are not provided by Universal Studios or Universal hotels. Though they can be bought on-site, they are cheaper to purchase online ahead of time.

Arrival & Parking

1. Download the Universal Resort Orlando app. Be sure to download the free Universal Resort app from the App Store and Google Play before heading to the park. You can use it for mobile ordering, virtual line reservations, wait time alerts, and an interactive park map. (Don’t forget to bring a portable battery charger as you will use your phone quite a bit.)

2. Check theme park hours ahead of time. Universal does not release its daily theme park hours until approximately 1 month before any given date. Hours vary by month and day, so be sure to check their website before your visit.

3. Know if you qualify for Early Park Admission. Universal’s Early Park Admission allows all Universal Orlando Resort hotel guests and annual pass holders one-hour early entry to Universal Studios or Universal’s Islands of Adventure, and a 30-minute early entry to Volcano Bay.

Not all rides open early. Be sure to check the Early Park Admission page (and app) a few weeks before your visit to determine which parks are offering this feature on what days, and for what rides. This varies drastically each week and is subject to change without notice.

4. Arrive early. If you don’t qualify for Early Park Admission, get to the turnstiles 45-60 minutes before the advertised park opening. Early arrival equals shorter lines and more rides! (Even with Early Park Admission, arrive at the gates 30-40 minutes before opening. i.e For 7:00 AM Early Admission, arrive at the gates no later than 6:30 AM.)

5. Allow at least 30 minutes for general parking and security. Once parked, escalators and moving walkways bring you into the transportation hub. Here, you will find security checkpoints, restrooms, vending machines, and souvenirs. It is a 15-minute walk to get from the hub to the entrance of either theme park.

6. Remember where you park. Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay share the same two gigantic covered parking garages. Take a photo of the name and number of your parking section, as well as the level and row. It’s easy to forget.

Universal Studios Touring Tips

1. Bring your AAA card. Many of the restaurants around Universal will give you a 10% discount for showing your card when you dine.

2. Wi-Fi is free at Universal. Be sure to switch over to the free network once you get to the park entrance in order to save on your data plan.

3. Make a game plan beforehand. In order to maximize your time in the park, I absolutely recommend that you study the park layout, as well as have a general idea of the order in which you want to do the rides and attractions. Both our Universal Studios Touring Plan , and Islands of Adventure Touring Plan outline exactly how we tour the parks when we’re there.

5. Have an understanding of the Universal Studios lockers. Unlike visiting the Disney theme parks , most rides at Universal do not allow personal belongings (including backpacks) to be brought onto the rides. This is due to their high intensity.

Along with paid lockers at the front of the park, each ride has either free or paid lockers based on the size of your backpack or bag.

*After reading this article, come back and check out our complete guide to understanding the lockers at Universal Orlando!

6. Pack a modestly sized Universal day bag. If you’re looking to save money, only bring in a backpack or fanny pack that fits into the complimentary lockers. Here’s exactly what we pack in our Universal Studios day bag that is just enough, but not too much.

Universal Studios Tips: Rides & Shows

• Vist the best rides at Universal Studios Florida early in the day, as these are the rides that accumulate the longest lines as the day goes on.

2. A reminder about Hogwart’s Express: Remember that you must have a “Park-to-Park” admission ticket to ride the Hogwart’s Express attraction. For a full experience, ride Hogwart’s Express in both directions as it is different depending on which direction you are traveling.

3. Check showtimes. Use the Universal app to check the daily showtimes and figure out how to fit them into your daily itinerary. Likewise, check what rides have a Virtual Line option for that day and make reservations. Virtual Line reservations cannot be done until you’re physically inside the park.

Note: If you have Express Pass, you do not need to make Virtual Line Reservations for rides that qualify for Express. Hagrid’s Motorbike does not honor Express Pass, so be sure to make a Virtual Line Reservation if it is being offered.

4. Small kids? Do Child Swap. Each ride has a family room where one member of your party can wait with the little ones while the rest of your party rides. Once they are finished, switch places so whoever rode can stay with the kids, and the adult(s) who sat out can then go on the ride.

5. Take advantage of the Single Rider line. Single Rider lines are always shorter and move faster than the regular line. If you don’t mind being split from your group, or if you want to quickly repeat a ride, hop into the Single Rider line.

6. Be prepared for motion sickness. Much like the best rides at Islands of Adventure , the rides at Universal includes twists, turns, and intense motion simulation. I highly recommend bringing along both adult and child doses of motion sickness medication (or taking it beforehand) to prevent queasiness.

Universal Studios Tips: Food and Beverage

• Bring your own water bottle. Bring along these collapsible reusable water bottles  to save you tons of money from having to purchase bottled water inside the park ($5.50/bottle). Restaurants and quick-service counters will refill them at no cost.

2. Eat at the Universal restaurants and at CityWalk. The fun and unique food and beverage options at Universal Studios are part of the experience! Don’t miss out on getting a VooDoo Donut or going to the Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen, two of the best restaurants in CityWalk . Also, be sure to get a Flaming Moe (orange soda with dry ice) found in the Simpson’s Springfield Fast Food Boulevard section of the parks.

3. Make reservations ahead of time. I highly suggest making online reservations for full-service restaurants at the parks and City Walk to avoid the lines during busy seasons. This can be done online, or by calling (407) 224-FOOD.

4. Consider if a Universal Dining Plan is worth it. Both quick-service and full-service dining plans are available at Universal. The cost per day does not include gratuities and only covers food from participating locations. Personally, we do not purchase a dining plan and have never regretted it.

5. Butterbeer comes in liquids and solids. We suggest trying them all!

• Butterbeer Fudge
• Cold Butterbeer
• Frozen Butterbeer (our favorite!)
• Hot Butterbeer
• Butterbeer ice cream
• Butterbeer potted cream (creamy custard)

Wizarding World of Harry Potter Tips

• Head to Diagon Alley first or last. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley, is by far the busiest part of the park. Go there first thing in the morning, or later in the evening after 4 PM to experience smaller crowds. (We spent the full hour of Early Park Admission enjoying Diagon Alley with little to no crowds; it was the highlight of our trip!)

2. Watch the fire-breathing dragon. Stick around. The large dragon on the top of Gringotts Bank rumbles, then breathes fire every 10-15 minutes.

3. Exchange money at Gringotts Money Exchange. The best part about going into Gringotts Money Exchange is listening to the ‘crabby’ animated goblin banker. Here, you can exchange money for ‘wizard currency’ to purchase food and souvenirs etc. around the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Any unused banknotes can be converted back to regular money at Guest Services.

4. Browse the shops and shop windows. If you’re a Harry Potter fan, browsing the shops in Diagon Alley will be a major highlight of your visit! The decor inside the shops and windows will make you feel as if you’re inside the books and movies. Plus, they contain exclusive Harry Potter merchandise that can’t be found anywhere else.

5. Be sure to stop in Ollivander’s Wand Shop. If you don’t want to wait in line to attend a wand-fitting demonstration, simply go into Ollivander’s, and the staff will assist you in picking out a wand. When purchasing a wand, opt for the ‘interactive’ wand that costs $10 more than a ‘learner’ wand. The interactive wand comes with a map showing 34 marked locations where you can cast spells around the parks.

Note: Small children will have a hard time executing the spells as the infrared tip of the wand needs to align perfectly with the censor in the window.

This can get frustrating for the littles, so be prepared and be ready to step in and help.

6. I’ll repeat. You MUST try Butterbeer. Head to The Fountain of Fair Fortune or the Hopping Pot in Diagon Alley to get Butterbeer. This butterscotch goodness is a Universal Studios must-try.

7. Catch a show. Throughout the day there are various types of shows in the Carkitt Market section of Diagon Alley. Check for showtimes on the Universal app. Celestina and the Banshees is our favorite.

Universal Orlando On-Site Hotel Perks

One of our best tips for visiting Universal Orlando is to stay on-site at one of the Universal Orlando Resorts.

Along with their close proximity to the theme parks (within walking distance!), these are the key benefits of staying on-site. These perks will make a world of difference to your family’s Universal vacation.

1. Early Park Admission . When you stay at an on-site hotel you get Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter 1 hour before the park opens, and 30-minutes prior to the Volcano Bay opening. (Worth it!)

2. Universal Express Pass . Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Universal’s Hard Rock Hotel, and Loews Royal Pacific Resort offer free Universal Express Unlimited to resort guests. Your room key serves as the Express Pass to show to get on rides. (Worth it, in our opinion!)

3. Complimentary transportation . Enjoy free transportation to the theme parks from each of the hotels via either water taxi or shuttle bus. Cabana Bay and Aventura Hotel are by shuttle bus only. (Worth it, although you still have to pay for parking at the hotel, $28/night.)

4. Priority seating at restaurants. Guests staying at Lowes Portofino Bay Hotel, Lowes Royal Pacific Hotel, and Hard Rock Hotel receive priority seating at select restaurants. Show your room key to the hostess and see if priority seating is available.

5. Package delivery. Free merchandise delivery from Universal stores and ships to any Universal hotel.

6. Charging privileges. Charge purchases across the entire Universal Orlando Resort to your room key card when staying at any Universal hotel.

Here are the current Universal Resort Hotels to choose from (in order of Budget to Premier):

• Surfside Inn and Suites ( Book directly on Booking.com )
• Dockside Inn and Suites ( Book directly on Booking.com )
• Universal’s Aventura Hotel ( Book directly on Booking.com )
• Cabana Bay Beach Resort ( Book directly on Booking.com  )
• Loews Sapphire Falls Resort ( Book directly on Booking.com  )
• Loews Royal Pacific Hotel ( Book directly on Booking.com  )
• Hard Rock Hotel ( Book directly on Booking.com  )
• Loews Portofino Bay Hotel ( Book directly on Booking.com  )

Tell me which of our Universal Studios tips surprised you the most, or that you found the most helpful! I would love to know 🙂 Jen

If you liked reading our Quick Tips for Universal Orlando, continue planning your Universal Orlando vacation here:

Universal Orlando Touring Plans:

• Universal Studios Touring Plan: 1-Day Itinerary
• Islands of Adventure Touring Plan: Complete 1-Day Itinerary

Universal Orlando Tips:

• What to Bring to Universal Studios (+Day Bag Tips)
• 9 Big Differences Between Disney World and Universal Studios
• Loews Royal Pacific at Universal Orlando: 9 Reasons to Stay
• A Complete Guide to the Lockers at Universal Orlando
• Top 7 Best Restaurants in Universal Citywalk

Universal Orlando Rides:

• Top 7 Best Rides at Islands of Adventure
• Top 7 Rides at Universal Studios Florida
• Is Universal Express Pass Worth it? A Detailed Look!

* Before leaving, be sure to check our  Travel Resources Page  to find exclusive travel discounts and to book hotels, rental cars, and guided tours.*

Jen Brommer is a family travel expert. She has been featured as an authority on several notable travel websites and is a member of the Family Travel Association (FTA), Midwest Travel Network, and TravMedia global media network.

A prominent content creator and influencer on Instagram, Jen has over 150K unique monthly blog readers from countries all over the world. She has spent the last 16 years planning fun, and hassle-free family vacations for her family of 5.

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Hi! Thanks for your extensive research, we really appreciate it! We plan on visiting this spring and I was wondering if you have an opinion about when the park is the least crowded…Thanks!

Honestly, the best thing to do to avoid crowds it to get to the park before opening and stand in line to be one of the first ones in. Head straight to Diagon Alley upon opening. This is when you’ll experience the least crowds and have the area practically to yourself, compared to the crowds that come later. Have fun!!!

Thanks so much for the information. I have also read that the security line piles up and people get stuck standing an hour in security line to get in early in the morning. I don’t want to go that early anyway, but I’m asking what time are the security lines short? Is it after the initial rush is over at 9am? or later? thank you!

Hello! Yes, security lines to pile up in the morning if you’re not one of the first ones there. Security lines do not get short until about 2 – 3 hours after the park’s official opening time. Good luck and have fun!!

These are such great tips for Universal. This was overwhelming the first time I went there, as it is very different from Disney. But these helpful tips are great for navigating the parks.

Thank you! I agree that these are essentials tips! With theme parks being so expensive, I am a firm believer that it takes some planning before going 🙂

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20 Universal Orlando Resort Hacks For The Parks

By: Author Melody Pittman

Posted on Published: February 7, 2023  - Last updated: March 20, 2024

Universal Orlando Resort, Florida, comprises three theme parks (Islands of Adventure, Volcano Bay, and Universal Studios), an entertainment complex (Universal CityWalk Orlando), and eight resort hotels. This Orlando attraction offers a whole lot of fun for the entire family. There is a lot of ground to cover when visiting, so we have developed these Universal Orlando Resort Hacks to help with your planning.

Our hacks are primarily for Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios but can offer assistance in saving money or making the most of your time at this family-friendly Florida attraction.

1. Download the Universal App

The Universal App will be your best friend when visiting the Universal Orlando Resort. The app  includes an interactive map , wait times listed in real-time, park hours, a virtual line for the Race Thorough New York ride at Universal Studios, and a parking reminder, so you will remember where your car is.

You can also purchase park tickets, Express Passes, dining plans, and photo packages through the app, plus explore the theme parks, CityWalk, and on-property hotels. Best of all, the app is free!

This is the most beneficial of our Universal Orlando Resort Hacks.

2. Buy an Express Pass

Purchase a Universal Express Pass (in addition to your theme park ticket or Annual Pass) and  skip the regular lines  at participating rides and attractions. Express Passes start at $49.99 and are available for Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios. Opt for the Express Unlimited Pass to skip the regular lines as often as possible.

With an Express Pass, adults can cover Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure in one day. It will be a busy day, but it is doable!

 3. Use Single Rider Lines

Single-rider lines are generally significantly shorter than regular lines. Even if you are traveling with multiple people, opt for the single-rider lines. Sure, you won’t be able to “ride together,” but you will be ready to move on to the next ride much quicker!

4. Ride the High in the Sky Seuss Trolly Train Ride

For great pictures of The Incredible Hulk Coaster and other attractions on the water at Islands of Adventure, ride the High In The Sky Seuss Trolly Train Ride. This slow-moving trolley takes you around Seuss Landing, either telling the story of the Sneetches or the ABCs of Dr. Seuss’s stories.

This is also an excellent resting opportunity!

5. Meet Your Favorite Characters at Breakfast

Start your day at Universal Studios’ Cafe La Bamba. Have breakfast with characters from  Dora the Explorer ,  Go Diego Go ,  SpongeBob SquarePants , and  Despicable Me . Universal’s Superstar Character Breakfast takes place from Thursday to Saturday, 9 to 11 AM.

The price for adults is around $34.99 (plus tax and gratuity) and $20.99 for children nine and under.

6. Stay On Property

The Universal Orlando Resort has five on-property hotels: Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort , Loews Sapphire Falls Resort, Loews Royal Pacific Resort, Hard Rock Hotel, and Loews Portofino Bay Hotel. Staying on-site comes with a lot of benefits:

• One hour early admission to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Volcano Bay before the park officially opens
• Transportation to the theme parks and Universal CityWalk
• Charging privileges with your room key
• Complimentary delivery of merchandise purchased throughout Universal
• Character appearances

7. Buy Tickets Online

Save more than $20 on multi-day tickets when you buy them online. You will also receive a Coupon Book with up to $150 in savings from select in-park restaurants, shops, on-site hotels, and more.

8. Have Lunch at the Universal CityWalk

Universal CityWalk is outside Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios; take advantage of it! The CityWalk has several excellent restaurants, so venture out when it is time to eat lunch. Take a break from the Florida sun in an air-conditioned, sit-down restaurant.

Our favorite favorite sit-down restaurant is Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar. The Crab Rangoon Dip with wonton crisps is a great starter, and for your main course, try the Cowfish Bento Box or original Bison Burgushi.

For a quick-serve experience, try the gourmet sandwiches at Bread Box Handcrafted Sandwiches. The BBQ Brisket Melt is savory and filling, while the Hot Turkey is an all-around fave. Vegans will find several choices on the menu, too.

But you can’t go wrong ever with dessert, dinner, or appetizers from Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen. They even had chocolate bread! Adult boozy shakes are all the rage, but I prefer the Chocolate Brownie Bark Sundae.

9. Buy a Coca-Cola Freestyle Souvenir Cup

Purchase a Coca-Cola Freestyle Souvenir Cup and receive FREE unlimited fountain refills.

10. Meet Your Favorite Characters

Right inside the entrance to Universal Studios is the Hollywood Character Zone. You can meet characters from Scooby-Doo,  The Simpsons ,  Despicable Me ,  Curious George ,  Go Diego Go ,  Dora the Explorer ,  Back To The Future , and more. 

The long list of characters for meet and greets at Islands of Adventure is as follows:

• Captain America
• Green Goblin
• Thing 1 and Thing 2
• The Cat in the Hat
• Woody Woodpecker
• Popeye and Olive Oyl

Wait times are short, and the meet and greets are laid back. Note that character appearances are subject to change at any time.

11.  Use the Park’s Free Wi-Fi

Use Universal’s free Wi-Fi to post pictures on social media and the Universal Orlando Resort app.

12. Ride Hogwarts Express

The most fantastic way to travel between theme parks is on the Hogwarts Express. Travel aboard the Hogwarts Express between King’s Cross Station in London (Universal Studios) and Hogsmeade Station (Islands of Adventure).

Harry Potter fans will love the experience!

Park-to-park admission or an Annual/Seasonal Pass is required.

13. Don’t Forget a Map!

Be sure to pick up a printed park map when you enter the parks. Character meet and greet, parade, and showtimes for the day are listed on it.

14. Bring a Backpack

Pack a backpack full of everything you might need for the day so you do not have to leave the park: sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, mobile charger, pain reliever, bandaids, and tissues.

You may want to include a beach towel and a change of clothes and shoes if you plan to ride water rides or visit Universal’s water park.

15. Pick Up a Celebration Button

Visit Guest Services (at either park) to pick up your birthday or celebration button!

16. Take Breaks

Pounding the pavement at the Universal Orlando Resort in the Florida sun is exhausting. Be sure to take breaks periodically throughout the day. Get a drink and a snack while resting your feet. There is a lot to see and do, but your day will be much more enjoyable if you pace yourself.

Pick up a Lard Lad Donut in Springfield and eat it inside Cletus’ Chicken Shack/Lisa’s Teahouse of Horror/Luigi’s Pizza in the comfort of air conditioning.

17. Become a Seasonal Ticket Holder

Love visiting the Universal Orlando Resort? Buy an Annual or Seasonal Pass! Four Passes are available: Premier Annual Pass, Preferred Annual Pass, Power Annual Pass, and Seasonal Pass. Receive discounts to dining and shopping locations, special offers at on-site hotels, and more.

18. Utilize the Child Swap

If your kids are taking turns on a ride, you don’t have to wait in line twice. Instead, take advantage of the Child Swap program.

One adult waits in line with the child who is riding while the other parent and siblings relax elsewhere. When it’s time for their turn in line, one adult switches off with the other.

19. Catch a Show

During your visit, take some time to relax and watch one of the many shows available at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. The Blue Brothers show is always a favorite!

Other great performances include Beetlejuice’s Graveyard Revue and Universal Horror Make-Up Show. Enjoy some comedy or drama during your busy day at the parks.

20. Ride the Water Taxi

If you’re staying at one of the on-site hotels, take advantage of the water taxis that operate between them and Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. These free boats offer a convenient way to get from your hotel to the parks. It’s also a great way to enjoy beautiful views of Universal Orlando Resort!

The service typically runs from 8 AM to 2 AM. Hop aboard and enjoy an stress-free ride.

Happy Park Hopping

These tips will help you make the most of your time at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. Be sure to plan ahead and purchase Express Passes if you can. With a little bit of preparation, you are sure to have an amazing experience!

So what are you waiting for? It’s. Ride Hogwarts Express, time to get your wizarding world on!

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Keely Feser

Saturday 4th of January 2020

I recently found out about a secret lounge for American Express card holders. it is right between the terminator ride and the Shrek ride. hope this helps!!

Taylor Hardy

Keely, thanks so much for sharing that! We will have to check it out the next time we're at the park :)

Lauren Meshkin @BonVoyageLauren

Saturday 21st of October 2017

My DREAM is to visit Harry Potter world, and now I know to definitely start there first. Also, great tip about the secret/alternative entrance. Thanks for sharing :)

Sunday 22nd of October 2017

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is incredible. Pictures do not do it justice!

Tuesday 17th of October 2017

Wow, great tips! We haven't been here yet but it's on the list!

Thursday 19th of October 2017

Thanks for reading!

Great tips! We are going to Universal in Jan/Feb so now I have great tips to make the most of our visit!

I hope y'all have a blast!

I think it's so worth it for an express pass but the single rider tip is great as well! And wow, that crab dip has my name written all over it. Thanks for sharing :)

We get Crab Dip from CowFish every time we go to the Universal CityWalk :)

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23 Amazing Universal Studios Orlando Tips to Save Time and Money

Are you looking for the BEST Universal Studios Orlando tips to make the most of your time on your trip?

Well, look no further!

Planning a trip to the Universal Orlando Resort doesn’t have to be a hard task, but I do know that sometimes the details in the planning can get stressful.

First off, the resort has 3 theme parks with another one opening in the future , plus multiple hotels to choose from and the famous CityWalk.

With all those experiences to participate in, you’ll want to know these pro tips for going to Universal Studios Florida.

Whether you choose to go to Universal Studios in Orlando solo or with family and friends, each tip will guide you to having the best theme park vacation ever!

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS. PLEASE READ MY  DISCLOSURE  FOR MORE INFO.  Which means if you click on certain links, I may receive a small commission at no additional charge to you.

1. Buy Tickets in Advance Online

This one Universal Studios Orlando tip will save you both money and time!

It’s best to buy your tickets ahead of time. This prevents waiting in a line once you arrive at Universal Studios.

Hipster Power Tip: The line to buy tickets in the morning is long at Universal Studios so make sure you get yours ahead of time so that you can skip this line and go straight to the gates.

2. Get Your Universal Orlando Tickets from a Trustworthy Website

Be sure to buy your Universal Studios Orlando ticket directly from Universal’s website or from a reputable source such as  Groupon or The Park Prodigy .

These places are always having special rates for the Orlando theme parks.

Universal Orlando Tickets: How to Get a Free Day at Universal Studios in 2024?

3. Know the Universal Orlando Ticket Options

There are a few options to choose from for Florida residents when buying a ticket for any of the Universal Orlando theme parks.

Below are just a few of the Universal Orlando ticket options that you can choose from:

• 2 Park, 1 Day Universal Orlando Ticket: This option allows you to visit both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure on the same day.
• 1 Park, 1 Day Universal Orlando Ticket: This option allows you to visit only one park for one day.
• 1 Day Volcano Bay Ticket: This option allows you to visit only Volcano Bay for one day.

Keep in mind that this is just the foundation of how you choose your Universal Studios tickets.

You can add multiple days to your vacation with the option to visit the two main parks on the same day for each day you choose.

It’s all about how you choose to spend your time at Universal Orlando Resort.

Get the whole list of the Universal Orlando ticket options here and save money too!

4. Know the Best Time to Visit Universal Studios Florida

This is one of my top Universal Studios Orlando tips for you!

Holiday peaks , crowd sizes , weather, and a few other factors have a lot to do with your Universal Orlando experience.

This includes just how long you’ll be waiting in line for your favorite rides.

What are the best times to visit Universal Studios Orlando?

Below are the best times to visit Universal Orlando Resort:

These months are closely followed by May, September, and October as the best time to visit Orlando.

Check out my latest theme park adventures on Instagram TODAY!

5. Get aUniversal Orlando Express Pass

Depending on the time of year you go, you’ll may want to think about getting an Express Pass.

Universal Studios has some of the most innovative rides with wait times to prove it.

Are the Universal Express Passes worth it?

It depends on a few factors. For instance, if you’re only going to be at Universal Studios for a day and you came on a crowded day , then I’d say definitely get the Express Pass.

On those peak days, it gets extremely hard to do and see each attraction available at the park.

Plus, if it’s a hot and humid day, it only adds to the frustration.

I know the prices can be out of your budget, but if you can squeeze a little bit more then definitely grab an Express Pass.

If you’re not into the whole thrill ride thing and you’re fine doing rides casually, then pass on the Express Pass and spend that money on some theme park food and merchandise.

Express Passes to Choose From:

• Universal Express Pass : You can skip the regular line ONE TIME per ride at participating attractions each day that your pass is valid.
• The Universal Unlimited Express Pass : You can skip the regular lines an UNLIMITED number of times at participating attractions.
• Volcano Bay Express: You can skip the Virtual Line one time at participating attractions.

Express Pass Rides and Attractions at Universal Studios Florida

• Despicable Me Minion Mayhem™
• E.T. Adventure™
• Fast & Furious – Supercharged™
• Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts™
• Hogwarts™ Express
• Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit™
• Kang & Kodos’ Twirl ‘n’ Hurl
• MEN IN BLACK™ Alien Attack™
• Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon™
• Revenge of the Mummy™
• The Simpsons Ride™
• TRANSFORMERS: The Ride-3D

Hipster Power Tip: There are three resorts on Universal Orlando property that include FREE Universal Express Passes for each hotel guest. They are: Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Royal Pacific Resort and the Hard Rock Hotel.

6. Be Sure to Use the Child Swap Program

A true ThemeParkHipster, like yourself, will most likely have a time where the little ones will be join you on one of your trips.

Don’t worry! You don’t have to miss out on all the fun Universal Studios attractions.

You and your theme park partner can take advantage of the Child Swap Program, where you’ll both be able to scream on Hollywood Rip Rockit , as the little ones wait to the side.

How does the Child Swap Program work at Universal Studios?

The Child Swap Program works by allowing one member of your party to wait in a designated area along with any children who are unable or unwilling to participate.

Once the rest of your group is off the ride, you trade places and take your seat on the ride while those who rode previously stay with the child(ren).

Recommended: 1 Day in Orlando Itinerary: What Should I Do That’s NOT Theme Parks?

7. Have a Game Plan and Download the Official Universal Orlando App

Route your path around the park in advance by  retrieving the Universal Studios park map on the app.

This is one of the best Universal Studios Orlando tips for your visit!

The Universal Orlando Resort app allows you to find ride wait times, show times, mobile ordering and dining venue hours.

The app also allows you to do so many other things such as, placing food and drink orders from select restaurants when you’re in the parks.

View the 2024 Universal Studios Map Below

You can also get your perfect Universal Studios Florida one-day itinerary here!

8. Explore the Wizarding World of Harry Potter Diagon Alley

If your smile is as wide as mine, then you probably want to skip the other rides and head straight back to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter Diagon Alley section of the park.

You’ll want to explore all the crevices of Diagon Alley and discover the dark streets of Nocturne Alley.

Become a true wizard and get your wand!

I recommend partaking in the interactive wand experience at Ollivander’s ; it’s always pretty fun and you’ll love it!

Don’t forget to ride Escape from Gringotts and chat with goblins while you’re in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Ready to plan your theme park trip? Watch the best vacation planning tips on YouTube. Get started here!

9. Try EVERY type of Butterbeer at Harry Potter World

In case you’re a Muggle, Butterbeer is a drink mentioned several times in the Harry Potter books .

It is the drink of choice for many of the adolescents through out the famous Wizarding story.

Plus, it’s a staple drink and a must have beverage whenever you visit Universal Studios.

How is Butterbeer served?

• Cold Butterbeer
• Frozen Butterbeer
• Hot Butterbeer (seasonal)
• Butterbeer Potted Cream
• Fudge Butterbeer
• Butterbeer Soft Serve Ice-Cream
• Vegan Butterbeer

As you can see, there are sooooo many Butterbeer options to chose from!!!

Where to find Butterbeer?

You can find a Butterbeer offering of some sort inside the Diagon Alley section of Universal Studios at:

• The Leaky Cauldron
• The Hopping Pot
• Sugarplum’s Sweetshop
• Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour

Recommended: Ultimate Florida Packing List: What to Pack for Your EPIC Trip!

10. Ride Hogwarts Express From Diagon Alley to Hogsmeade

Hopping on the Hogwarts Express train is the best way of recreating the footsteps of the famous wizard, Harry Potter.

The Hogwarts Express is located inside King’s Cross Station next to the secret entrance to Diagon Alley.

In order for you to experience this attraction, you’ll need to have a park-to-park admission ticket for the same day.

Your Park-to-Park tickets (Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure) will allow you to visit both Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade via the Hogwarts Express.

7 BEST Photo Spots in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter that are Instagram-worthy!

11. Have a Universal Studios Packing List

It’s important for you to know what to pack for Universal Studios Florida.

Below are some of the things I MUST HAVE for my days at the park.

• Comfy Shoes
• Breathable Clothing
• Sun Protection
• Wizard’s robe and wand
• Hand sanitizer
• Phone Charger
• Portable Fan

Get the full Universal Orlando packing checklist here!

12. Know What You Can and Cannot Bring inside Universal Studios

To prevent any embarrassment at the security checkpoints, I’ve listed the items you are able to take with you inside of the Universal Orlando parks.

Please keep in mind that Universal is very strict on what it allows you to bring.

Acceptable items at Universal Studios:

• Bottled water
• Small snacks that do not require heating
• Any food required for medical purposes and medically indicated nutritional supplements
• Food required for special dietary needs
• Baby food/baby formula
• Soft-sided insulated bags no larger than 8.5″ wide x 6″ high x 6″ deep

Prohibited items at Universal Studios:

• Alcoholic beverages
• Picnic lunches
• Food that requires heating or refrigeration
• Glass containers
• Hard-sided coolers
• Soft-sided coolers larger than 8.5″ wide x 6″ high x 6″ deep
• Suitcases and bags with wheels
• Folding chairs
• Clothing with offensive language or content
• Clothing that represents someone as emergency personnel
• Weapons of any kind

WATCH NEXT: Top 5 BEST Food at Universal Studios UNDER $10!!! 🍟🍦🍻🍕

13. Enjoy the Must-Do Rides and Food at Universal Studios Florida

Make sure you make a list of the things you must-do on your trip to Universal Studios.

Below are some of my favorite things to do on my solo days at Universal Orlando.

• Escape from Gringotts
• Discover the Mysteries of Revenge of the Mummy
• Horror Make Up Show
• MEN IN BLACK Alien Attack
• Chicken and Waffles at Cletus’ Chicken Shack
• Eat at the Leaky Cauldron
• Get a Loaded Baked Potato outside of Diagon Alley
• Ride Hollywood Rip Rockit
• Explore the NEW Minion Land
• Watch the Bourne Stuntacular
• Save the World in Transformers the Ride

7 Best Universal Orlando Restaurants for Solo Travelers

14. Take Advantage of the Single Rider Line

This line can cut your wait time in half and that’s always a benefit of going to a theme park alone .

It allows you to get around to most of the attractions quickly, because you don’t have to wait in the normal ride line.

This is especially important if you are traveling to Universal Studios solo.

Single Rider Lines at Universal Studios Florida:

• Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
• Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
• Fast and Furious Supercharged
• Revenge of the Mummy
• TRANSFORMERS: The Ride 3-D

Hipster Power Tip: The Single Rider Line will split up your party so keep that in mind on your visit. Universal Team Members use Single Riders to fill in extra spot available on the rides.

15. Go to Universal Studios Solo!

At ThemeParkHipster, I’m ALL about  going to theme parks solo!

Almost  everything on this list you can also do alone,  and if you want to, you absolutely should!

Going to Universal Studios alone allows you to plan your day the way you want it without having to compromise with others.

It’s my favorite way to go to Universal Orlando Resort!

16. Use the Lockers at Universal Studios

There are lockers next to certain attractions that require you to store your loose items.

They are free for up to a certain time period. The time period will depend on the wait time of the attraction.

If you go beyond the time frame for holding your items, you will be required to pay a small fee.

Just make sure to take a photo of your locker number.

Trust me when I say that it will save you the headache of trying to remember your locker number when you’ve just got done screaming your head off on Revenge of the Mummy!

Cheat Sheet: Universal Orlando Resort Height Requirements (2024 Guide)

17. Get a Birthday Button

You can grab a free birthday button from Guest Services at Universal Studios Florida.

Professing your birthday to the world may increase your chances of being chosen by Ollivander in the wand presentation show.

Getting a Universal Orlando Birthday button is just one of the free things you can get on your Universal trip.

Hipster Power Tip: It’s not required for you to buy the want; however, tou do have to pay for the wand if you want to keep it even if you’re selected to be a part of the show at Ollivander’s.

18. Enjoy Free Wi-Fi at Universal Orlando

There’s free Wi-Fi throughout all of Universal Studios.

All you have to do is connect to the Wi-Fi on your mobile device as you would normally do and follow the instructions.

Recommended: Where to Stay in Orlando: Top 10 Hotels and Resorts for ALL Budgets

19. Visit CityWalk Orlando

Universal Orlando CityWalk is an entertainment hot spot between Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure.

It’s filled with lots of shops, restaurants, clubs, and more!

If you’ve ever been to Walt Disney World, then it similar to Disney Springs.

You do not need a ticket for Universal Studios in order to experience CityWalk.

You’re also able to leave Universal Studios (or Islands of Adventure) and enjoy all the CityWalk action , then return back to the parks without needing another ticket.

Ready to start planning your next Universal Orlando vacation? Listen to the  latest podcast episode on Apple  or on your  non-Apple  device now!

20. Get a Milkshake at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium

On your trip to Universal Studios you must stop in CityWalk on your way out and have one of the famous Toothsome Chocolate Emporium milkshakes!

Its’ not only an Instagram worthy photo spot , it’s also a must have treat because it’s absolutely delicious.

Voodoo Doughnut Orlando Will Put a Spell on You!

21. Don’t Forget About Free Water

Tap water is free at any restaurant inside Universal Studios and some quick service locations. So, be sure to bring your own water bottle to fill it up during the day.

Get more ways to beat the Florida theme park heat!

22. Grab the Best Souvenirs at Universal Studios Orlando

No trip to Universal Studios is complete without the best souvenirs to remember your day.

One of my best Universal Studios Orlando tips is to check Amazon for souvenirs at a cheaper price.

Let’s go through some of the top items you must get on your trip.

• Wizarding World of Harry Potter wand
• Giant Simpsons doughnut
• Wizard Robe
• Universal Studios T-shirts
• Universal Orlando Trading Pins

Read NEXT: 7 AMAZING Things I Can’t Wait to Do at Universal Epic Universe in 2025!

23. Have Fun!

Whether you’re on your own adult solo Universal Orlando vacation or if you’re with friends, you will have fun!

Save up to 50% on over 25 Things to Do in Orlando: Kennedy Space Center, LEGOLAND Florida, kids activities, airboat ride, WonderWorks & more TODAY!

What to Know Before You Go to Universal Studios Florida

Now that we have the beginner tips for Universal Studios Florida covered, let’s go through some of the top questions I’m frequently asked for your next trip to this incredible theme park!

What’s the best itinerary for Universal Studios Orlando?

You’ll want to save time on your Universal Orlando trip , so you must have a game-plan to save time and see the most popular attractions.

You can grab your FREE Universal Orlando Resort Guidebook here!

What time does Universal Studios open?

Universal Studios Florida is  open 365 days a year from 9 a.m to 6 p.m.  in the regular season and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the peak season.

Hours may change based on the busyness of the park.

Recommended: The Solo Theme Park Traveler’s Guide

How much does it cost to go to Universal Studios in Florida?

The  cost of admission starts at $119, but I like discounts so I use  Groupon or The Park Prodigy  to find cheap Universal Studios tickets.

What should I do first at Universal Studios Orlando?

One of the best Universal Studios Orlando tips that I can give you is to start at Diagon Alley first.

This Harry Potter-inspired area will fill up quickly making the line for the main attraction, Escape from Gringotts, extremely long.

Join the Conversation on the  Solo Theme Park Traveler’s Community on Facebook!

My Final Thoughts on the Best Universal Studios Orlando Tips

Universal Studios Florida is one of the best theme parks in the world! You are bound to have an amazing time if you plan the right way and follow these tips.

Now go out there and start your Universal Orlando theme park adventure today!

Let me know your best Universal Studios Orlando tips in the comment section below?

If you enjoyed the Universal Studios Orlando Tips, then you’ll love these:

• Universal Studios One-Day Itinerary
• Islands of Adventure One-Day Itinerary
• Best Photo Spots at Islands of Adventure
• Diagon Alley Complete Guide
• Best Photo Spots at Universal Studios
• A Celebration of Harry Potter Tips and Tricks
• 7 Ways to Enjoy The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Hogsmeade
• What You Need to Pack for Universal Orlando
• Top Money Saving Websites for Theme Parks

Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!

About the Author

My name is Nikky. I’m a wife, a mother, a pharmacist turned theme park blogger, USA Today 10Best Contributor , and a writer who loves ALL things amusement park related!

Traveling alone to the parks has changed my life and I want to show how you can create your own solo theme park memories.

Connect with me on Instagram!

(Original Article Date: June 1, 2019/Updated February 17, 2024)

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Universal Orlando guide: Tips from frequent visitors

When I was a kid, we went to an Orlando theme park at least once a year. You had to plan a few things in advance, but visiting an amusement park wasn't what it is today. With all the apps, reservation timelines and rules, planning the "perfect" trip to any major theme park has become a massive endeavor.

Just thinking about planning the trip is enough to give me hives. The stakes are so high — pricey admission, reservation deadlines for everything from character breakfasts to dinners at popular restaurants and all sorts of add-ons to get into the theme parks before the masses and skip the lines. There's so much to know.

However, we really wanted to visit Universal Orlando on a family vacation , so I needed to overcome my planning paralysis. I'm happy to say that — with some strategic decisions upfront — we were able to execute an awesome visit to Universal with a minimal amount of advance planning.

If you're a first-time visitor to Universal Orlando, here's what you need to know to plan your own vacation.

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When to visit

The date for your visit to Universal Orlando may not be entirely up to you.

If you're traveling with school-age children, you're likely locked into visiting during school vacations, long weekends and summer break. If that's the case, you'll probably visit Universal when it's at its busiest. That's not the end of the world, though, since there are ways to reduce the waits for lines. More on that in a minute.

You can check expected crowd levels at crowd calendars like the ones at Undercover Tourist, Touringplans or Orlando Informer .

The slower times of the year are Labor Day through the first two weeks of November (before Thanksgiving) and the first two weeks of December (before the holiday rush). Note, though, that if you visit close to Halloween, it will be busier because of Universal's Halloween Horror Nights .

Most of January, except for the first week, is also relatively quiet, as is the first week of February. But then it gets crazy with spring breakers. Crowds thin out a bit after Easter and through May, then ramp up again for the summertime. June, July and August are always busy. Always. And, as an added bonus, it's extremely hot.

For our first visit in a zillion years, I picked a quiet time in early November so any planning blunders on my part would be minimized by the lack of intense crowds.

Related: 10 things no one tells you about Orlando

Where to stay during a Universal Orlando vacation

Once you've ironed out when you plan to visit Universal, you'll want to determine where to stay.

You have a ton of options, from hotels right on Universal property and nearby points hotels to rental homes and Airbnbs . There are so many choices that TPG wrote an entire guide to choosing the best Universal Orlando hotel for your trip .

Let's recap the high points here.

Benefits of Universal hotels

If you only have a few days to explore Universal and don't mind the cost, an on-site property may be your best bet. That's because guests of all Universal hotels receive early entry into the parks for specific attractions.

Which parks open for early admission vary by day and only certain attractions are available. However, they tend to be the popular rides with lines that grow once the gates open to regular parkgoers. There's a helpful page on the Universal site to figure out what's available to on-site hotel guests. With some rides in each of the two parks available, that should also help spread out the crowds just a bit.

It's a nice freebie, and it's the best strategy if you have your heart set on riding Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure without spending hours in line. Currently, this ride does not participate in Universal's Express Pass skip-the-line program.

If you stay in one of Universal's on-site hotels, you can take advantage of the park's complimentary transportation options to get between CityWalk, Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure and your hotel.

Some hotels, including Loews Portofino Bay Hotel , Loews Royal Pacific Resort , Hard Rock Hotel and Loews Sapphire Falls Resort offer complimentary boat shuttles.

Universal's Cabana Bay Beach Resort , Universal's Aventura Hotel and the above-mentioned hotels have peaceful walking paths and all resorts, including Universal's budget-friendly Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites and Dockside Inn and Suites, have complimentary shuttle buses.

The downside of staying at a Universal hotel is often the price. Rack rates are usually relatively high, though Universal's Endless Summer Resort — Surfside Inn and Suites and Dockside Inn and Suites — have rates that start at $91 per night on off-peak dates.

The mid-tier resorts, Aventura and Cabana Bay, start at closer to $130 per night.

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

But if you prefer to stay at one of Universal's top-end Premier hotels (Royal Pacific, Hard Rock or Portofino Bay), you're probably looking at starting rates around $325 per night. However, you'll also get complimentary Universal Express skip-the-line passes for every guest staying in your room.

We'll explain that in more detail down below, but it's a huge timesaver and may be worth the extra per-night cost of staying on-site.

If you have The Platinum Card® from American Express or The Business Platinum® Card from American Express , a great way to maximize a stay at Loews Portofino Bay is to book via the Amex Fine Hotels and Resorts collection .

This will get you not only the Express Passes for all guests of that hotel but also full daily breakfast for two, a $100 property credit, late 4 p.m. checkout and more.

Staying off-site

Universal is surrounded by plenty of points hotels, so if you'd prefer to stay off-site — on points or cash — you can easily do so. Some of TPG's favorite nearby points hotels are even within walking distance of Universal.

Related: Splash into fun: The 14 best hotel pools in Orlando

Here are a few points hotels within walking distance of Universal:

• Hyatt Place Across From Universal Orlando Resort (Category 2, from 6,500 World of Hyatt points per night).
• Hyatt House Across From Universal Resort (Category 3, from 9,000 World of Hyatt points per night).
• DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel at the Entrance to Universal Orlando (Around 30,0000 Hilton Honors points per night).

And some great points hotels that are just a short drive away:

• Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress (Category 4, from 12,000 World of Hyatt points per night).
• Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld (From 34,000 Marriott points per night on standard dates).
• The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes (From 52,000 Marriott points per night on standard dates).
• JW Marriott Grande Lakes (From 40,000 Marriott points per night on standard dates).
• Hilton Orlando (40,000 to 60,000 Hilton Honors points per night).
• Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek (40,000 to 60,000 Hilton Honors points per night).
• Waldorf Astoria Orlando (63,000 to 80,000 Hilton Honors points per night).

Related: Choosing the best Universal Orlando hotel for your trip

All about Universal tickets

Visitors have a lot of options when it comes to buying Universal tickets, from the type of ticket to how you'll pay for them. Here's the skinny.

FOR NO-COST ASSISTANCE WITH PLANNING AND BOOKING YOUR NEXT UNIVERSAL VACATION, CHECK OUT TPG'S THEME PARK BOOKING PARTNER, MOUSE COUNSELORS .

Universal ticket types

There's a variety of ticket types at Universal Orlando. You can buy tickets that get you into one, two or three theme parks (i.e., Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure and Volcano Bay water park).

You can purchase tickets for one, two, three, four or five days. The cheapest tickets allow access to one park per day. So, if you start your day at Universal Studios, you can't use the same ticket to get into Islands of Adventure in the afternoon. You're limited to one park per day. This sounds good but isn't always a great choice.

Alternatively, you can buy the pricier Park-to-Park tickets that allow you to bop between the theme parks as you wish. These tickets may be more expensive, but they give you the greatest amount of freedom to visit more than one park on the same day.

Related: From Butterbeer to magic wands: Everything you need to know about Universal Orlando's Wizarding World of Harry Potter

If you want to ride the Hogwarts Express between Hogsmeade Station and Kings Cross Station, you need a Park-to-Park ticket or an Annual/Seasonal Pass.

There's no way around that requirement since Hogsmeade Station is in Islands of Adventure and Kings Cross Station is in Universal Studios. Basically, Universal's got you cornered on this one.

If you're going to visit for more than a couple of days or potentially twice in 12 months, consider a Universal annual pass .

When I planned our trip, Universal was running a promotion that would have given us extra days in the parks for free. But when I crunched the numbers, a Florida resident annual pass was only $8 per ticket more expensive than the tickets for one trip, so we went with the annual pass.

Buying direct from Universal

Universal Orlando almost always has ticket specials on its website. Read the options carefully to see if any of the promotions make sense for you. The special may throw in a free day at the park(s), an Express Pass or discounted admission to the Volcano Bay water park .

Related: How to get the most out of one day at Universal Orlando

Buying tickets from other vendors

You can also buy tickets from reputable vendors like Undercover Tourist . What's great about Undercover Tourist is that it often has some older tickets available so when prices increase each year, you can often still buy a cheaper ticket from them.

It's worth bookmarking their site to comparison shop. Purchases from Undercover Tourist code as travel for the purposes of using a travel credit card or earning extra points.

Related: Best credit cards to use for Universal Studios

And although you can't typically purchase stand-alone Universal tickets at Costco, Costco Travel does sell Universal vacation packages that include tickets and on-site hotel nights.

You'll even get a Costco Shop Card after your visit. Check out pricing for your dates to see if it represents a better deal versus booking through other methods.

Using points to buy Universal tickets

Historically, it was possible to use Chase Ultimate Rewards and Citi ThankYou points to purchase your Universal Orlando theme park admission , though our most recent searches didn't turn up any availability.

Upgrade to skip the lines

Like so many amusement parks around the world that have skip-the-line passes , Universal has its own version called Universal Express. There are a few ways you can get Universal Express passes.

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

The best way is often to get it included in your stay, as mentioned above. Guests staying at any of the three top-of-the-line Universal Premier hotels — Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel and Loews Royal Pacific Resort — get Universal Express Unlimited for free as registered guests.

This is huge as the starting cost if purchased separately is more than $100 per day, per person. For a family of four, getting it with your room rate is almost certainly a better deal than buying it.

Note: The Premier level of the Universal annual pass includes Express Pass access beginning at 4 p.m.

Another option is to simply buy an Express Pass when you need it. How much you pay depends on the type of pass you buy and when you visit Universal, as passes cost more when crowd levels are high. Here are the three types of Express Passes you can buy:

Universal Express: This is the base version of the skip-the-queue pass. It allows you to skip the regular line one time per participating ride at both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure theme parks. Prices start at $79.99 per person, per day for one park and go up from there — sometimes as high as $279.99 per day.

Universal Express Unlimited: The unlimited pass lets you skip the regular lines at participating rides as many times as you wish at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure.

Passes for that privilege start at $109.99 per person, per day. Pricing for the unlimited passes seems to be running about $30 more per day than the normal express passes, which may make them the better value (assuming you can afford a second mortgage).

Volcano Bay Express: This pass is solely for use at Volcano Bay water park, where it allows you to skip the regular line one time per participating ride. The pass starts at $19.99 per person, per day, but you won't find that rate very often.

Participating rides and attractions are subject to change, so it's best to consult Universal Orlando's website before your visit.

When I visited, just about every ride we wanted was included in the Universal Express Unlimited, with the exception of Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure.

Hagrid's is an incredible ride that has also seen some incredible wait times since opening. Alas, unless you purchase a VIP tour, your anticipation of rides that aren't included in Universal Express like Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure will be rivaled only by your time waiting in line.

Take a VIP tour

Another way to avoid the lines is to take a VIP tour. There are small group and private VIP tours at Universal and both will help you cut the line.

Summer Hull, a director at TPG, took her family on a private VIP experience at Universal and it included walk-on ride access during the tour, as well as Express Passes and dining credit after the official tour was over.

A private tour will cost a few thousand dollars for the day for your group, but small group VIP experiences can be much less expensive, starting at less than $200 per person.

The primary difference between the two tours is the amount of access. The group tours are obviously less private but also only guarantee that you'll experience front-of-the-line access for eight to 10 rides. A private VIP tour is charged by the hour and operates at a faster or slower pace as you prefer.

Whether you decide to purchase an Express Pass or take a VIP tour will likely be determined by how crowded the park is during your visit, as well as your budget.

If it's off-season, you may be able to get away without a skip-the-line pass. But if you're visiting during a holiday week or school vacation, be prepared for long lines without a pass. On those dates, having an Express Pass will allow you to ride more attractions in less time.

Universal's child-swap policy

If you travel as a family, you know that not everyone will want to go on every ride. And some of your kids may not yet be old or tall enough to ride some attractions that your other kids are dying to try.

Universal solves the problem of the entire family having to choose between experiencing a ride or not with its child-swap program.

In fact, Universal's child swap is the best in the business as there are (air-conditioned) waiting areas in some key attractions. Most even have televisions showing whichever movie the attraction is based on.

This allows one member of your party to watch over small children while the rest of the gang waits in line and rides. Then you can swap places so the other member can enjoy the ride too, without another long wait. Just ask the attraction attendant to point you toward the designated waiting spots.

What's at Universal Orlando?

Although it's not as large ( yet ) as Walt Disney World , Universal Orlando has plenty for your family to see and do for several days. There are two theme parks, a water park and an entertainment, dining and shopping complex.

Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure and CityWalk are arranged in a triangle around a small lake. The Volcano Bay water park is separated a bit from these three destinations.

Universal Studios

One of Universal's two theme parks, Universal Studios has eight sections. You enter through an impressive arch and, if you walk straight, are immediately in Production Central with attractions like Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit and Transformers: The Ride-3D.

If you take a right after you enter the park, you're in Hollywood, where you'll find the NBC Media Center, Universal Orlando's Horror Make-Up Show, the Bourne Stuntacular and the Character Party Zone.

A lot of the attractions in both Production Central and Hollywood are better saved for when the day starts getting hot. You get to sit in blissful air-conditioning at these shows: Minion Mayhem, the Bourne Stuntacular and the Horror Make-Up Show.

If you've got little kids, turn right upon entry and walk through Hollywood so you can start immediately at Woody Woodpecker's KidZone.

From there, enjoy Springfield: Home of the Simpsons. I'm no kid, but I loved Kang & Kodos' Twirl 'n' Hurl ride!

If your kids are older, bypass those kid-centric areas and make Men in Black Alien Attack in World Expo your first ride of the day. After you ride, you are perfectly positioned to enter The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Diagon Alley first thing in the morning.

Get in line for Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts before the line gets too long.

Then, explore Ollivanders and Gringotts Money Exchange and see a few shows (we saw The Tales of Beedle the Bard and Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees). Kids love talking with Stan and the Knight Bus conductor. Don't miss a meal at the Leaky Cauldron or ice cream at Florean Fortescue's Ice-Cream Parlour.

If you have a Park-to-Park ticket, you can decide to take the Hogwarts Express from Kings Cross Station (next to Leicester Square) to Hogsmeade Station in Islands of Adventure.

If you have a one-park ticket, you won't be able to ride the Hogwarts Express and will instead continue your exploration of Universal Studios.

As you depart The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Diagon Alley, keep to the right to enter San Francisco.

If you didn't opt for a butterbeer in Hogwarts, this is a fantastic spot to stop for lunch or a snack since most of what you'll find here are restaurants, including the city's famous seafood restaurant, Lombard's. There is also one ride here: Fast & Furious — Supercharged.

From San Francisco, continue on to New York, where you don't want to miss Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon (another great get-out-of-the-heat, rest-your-feet experience) and Revenge of the Mummy. Hang around, too, to see some shows like the Blues Brothers or Marilyn & the Diamond Bellas.

Once you've had your fill of the Big Apple, continue back along the main thoroughfare to Production Central and Hollywood, if you skipped those in the morning.

In the evening, don't miss Universal Studios' nighttime extravaganza. Called the Cinematic Celebration and centered at the theme park's lagoon, it combines music, films, water and light.

You can also see a daytime fountain and music show at this same lagoon. Check the daily program or official Universal Orlando app for times.

Islands of Adventure

The second Universal theme park is Islands of Adventure. Your best call here is to arrive as soon as the gates open and walk quickly to Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure or Jurassic World VelociCoaster. Both are at the opposite end of the park from the entry gates, so it will be a walk but enjoying the busiest rides in the park without crushing crowds is worth it.

If roller coasters aren't your thing (and you aren't prone to motion sickness), get in line instead to see Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. This is where you'll ride a broomstick and it really is a fantastic attraction.

After that, ride Flight of the Hippogriff, a gentler roller coaster. (If you can ride Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Disney World, Flight of the Hippogriff will be no big deal). Or you can simply walk around Hogsmeade for some fun photos without throngs of other guests in the background.

After you've done the ride, explore Hogsmeade itself and see some shows (we saw the Frog Choir and the Triwizard Spirit Rally) and watch a wand choose a wizard at Ollivanders (if you didn't see the same experience at Diagon Alley already).

Grab a butterbeer at the Three Broomsticks or adjacent Hog's Head and then continue on to the other lands of Islands of Adventure.

When you leave The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, you can go in either direction. For our purposes, let's pretend you walk to Jurassic Park first. Here you'll visit Camp Jurassic where kids will enjoy the Pteranodon Flyers. You can also take the Jurassic Park River Adventure and have a "raptor encounter."

There are plenty of places to pick up fast food here, from pizza and ribs to burgers and nachos.

Next up, you can ride Skull Island: Reign of Kong before hitting Toon Lagoon, where your kids can cool off in some sprinklers, or you can all ride Dudley Do-Right's Ripsaw Falls flume (warning: you will get very wet).

As you dry off from that heart-pounding experience, head to Marvel Super Hero Island, where you can meet Marvel characters and ride The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man and The Incredible Hulk Coaster (it's an intense one).

If you have some daredevils in the family — or Marvel fans — you'll spend a good amount of time here.

Beyond the Incredible Hulk coaster is the entrance to the park. Continue from there to Seuss Landing.

Even though we didn't have any kids in tow, we still enjoyed walking through this bright and cheery land and we even rode the Caro-Seuss-el merry-go-round and The High in the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride.

There's also a Seuss character zone and plenty of other rides and attractions that are specifically designed for the little ones.

The Last Continent is just beyond Seuss Landing. There's a neat interactive experience called The Mystic Fountain. Seriously, start talking to it and you'll be mesmerized.

You can also take on Poseidon's Fury in a special-effects guided tour or stop to dine on Mediterranean-style food at Doc Sugrue's Kebab House, Fire Eater's Grill or Mythos Restaurant.

Volcano Bay

Volcano Bay is Universal's water park. This park can close because of chilly weather or during lightning storms. Check Universal's schedule to see if it is slated to be open during your visit. Volcano Bay has everything you'd expect of an exceptional water park, like Waturi Beach with a fantastic lagoon for swimming and Kopiko Wai Winding River.

There are also some incredible waterslides and drops and the Ko'okiri Body Plunge that features a 70-degree fall through a drop door and 125 feet of what Universal calls "white-knuckle fun."

Thrillseekers love the Krakatau Aqua Coaster, where you plunge right through a waterfall, and TeAwa The Fearless River whitewater ride through churning rapids and waves.

COVID-19 restrictions are pretty limited at Volcano Bay. Masks are required when entering and exiting the park, as well as in restaurants (when you're not actively eating) and in retail locations. They're not permitted on the water rides themselves.

As if two theme parks and a massive water park weren't enough, Universal also offers CityWalk.

This complex of restaurants, shops and clubs is open during the day, but it really heats up at night with free self-parking after 6 p.m. You don't need tickets to enter, but you can buy tickets for shows at the Hard Rock Cafe.

You'll also find restaurants such as Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville, Bob Marley — A Tribute to Freedom and Pat O'Brien's that offer live (and recorded) music. There's a movie theater (free parking with the purchase of two movie matinee tickets), karaoke club (CityWalk's Rising Star), miniature golf and the Red Coconut Club and The Groove for dancing.

There are plenty of spots to dine too. You can grab snacks like pizza, hotdogs and Panda Express Chinese food and sweets from Voodoo Doughnuts.

Or you can have a more substantial meal at restaurants like the Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen, NBC Sports Grill & Brew, VIVO Italian Kitchen, The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. and more.

We had a fantastic dinner at Bigfire, where the pork chop was the juiciest I've ever eaten.

Universal's boat shuttles that take you back to its resorts are right at CityWalk so it's convenient to spend the day at Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure and then have dinner at CityWalk and go shopping before heading back to your hotel for the night.

And a third park coming …

Universal Orlando announced a new theme park, a third gate at Universal Orlando, back in 2019. A massive 750-acre tract of land located not far from the two existing theme parks was to be the site for the new park.

Dubbed Epic Universe , the new park is rumored to house franchises like Fantastic Beasts, a Harry Potter spin-off, Super Nintendo World and Universal Classic Monsters. Construction was delayed due to the pandemic, but the new park is on track to open sometime in the summer of 2025.

The best credit cards to use at Universal

Now we get to a hot topic for points-and-miles travelers who are planning a trip to Universal Orlando. Which credit card should you use? That depends.

For example, how and where you purchase your theme park tickets will dictate how the charge will be coded. Historically speaking, Universal theme park tickets and VIP tours purchased directly from Universal have coded as "entertainment."

However, tickets purchased at an on-site Universal hotel and charged to the hotel have coded as "travel." Depending on how you purchase your ticket, you'll want to select either a card that rewards you for entertainment spend or travel purchases.

If you think your purchase will code as entertainment, two good credit card options are:

• Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card — 4% cash back.

If, however, you know your charge will code as travel, you're better off using:

• Chase Sapphire Reserve — 3 points per dollar spent.
• Chase Sapphire Preferred Card — 2 points per dollar spent.
• Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card — 2 points per every dollar spent.

The information for the Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Bottom line

Universal is packed with rides, attractions, character meet-and-greets and more. Yet it's compact enough for you to cover a lot of ground in just a few days.

Universal Orlando can be a pricey but incredible adventure for your family. If it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience you're seeking, you may be best waiting until the pandemic restrictions are lifted.

However, if you're more "go with the flow," Universal Orlando has plenty to offer for fans of Harry Potter, Marvel and so much more.

Additional reporting by Edward Pizzarello.

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Amazing Secrets and Tips for Universal Orlando

April 11, 2019 · In: KIDS , TRAVEL

We recently had a fun, whirlwind few days at  Universal Orlando  and it was absolutely incredible for the whole family, even with all ages in tow! Today I am sharing those tips and secrets with YOU that made it such a happy trip! Read on to learn our best  Universal Orlando Tips and Tricks! 

Did you know more than half of Americans (55%) leave vacation days unused? That’s paid time off. It’s crazy when all of the scientific evidence shows taking well-planned vacations can increase your lifespan, productivity at work, and your happiness at home.

A poorly planned trip can have the opposite effect. And if you have a large family like ours then you know planning ahead is key to keeping the littles happy and you sane. Read on for our insider tips to make your next Universal Orlando trip a happy one.

Table of Contents

Side note: Universal Orlando Resort now consists of THREE parks:

• Universal Studios Florida
• Universal’s Islands of Adventure
• Universal’s Volcano Bay

Keep reading for our top 10 Secrets and Tips for Universal Orlando for the Whole Family!

Stay on property.

You might be thinking that you could get a cheaper stay somewhere else, but let me tell you now that staying on property is worth EVERY penny. We stayed at the 1950s and 60s retro styled Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort . The roomy family suite was perfect for our large crew of six, soon to be eight ;), and amazing pool areas included a water slide and lazy river.

Other marvelous benefits of staying at a Universal Orlando hotel include early park admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ and Universal’s Volcano Bay™, complimentary shuttle buses, resort-wide charging privileges using your room key card, and free delivery of your purchases from the theme parks or CityWalk™ directly to your hotel. And if you stay at one of their premier Universal Orlando hotels you get the added benefits of using the water taxi, priority seating at select restaurants, and free Universal Express Unlimited™ .

Pro Tip: There are six Universal Orlando Resort Hotels (soon to be seven!) to choose from, and they all offer benefits for getting more out of your time at Universal. If you’re a Florida local,  check out the resident rates !

Arrive Early and Leave Late

Take advantage of that early park entrance in the morning offered only to guests staying on property. One hour before the park opens you can make a beeline to the most popular attractions and beat the impending crowd.

But shhh, this is a super secret tip… if you are not staying on property for your Universal Orlando trip get their early anyway. At their discretion, they will allow guests to enter somewhat early to also enjoy some super short wait times.

Both early and late is actually a perfect time visit to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which is located in both Universal Studios (Diagon Alley) and Islands of Adventure (Hogsmeade). I’ve heard it shared both ways… but in our personal experience, we had a much better time with smaller crowds when we went straight to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter upon early admission. It was crazy crowded during the day, and those crowds even carried over into the evening (though the Nighttime Lights At Hogwarts™ Castle in Universal’s Islands of Adventure™ was so worth it), so the early entry truly paid off!

Pro Tip: If you have a Park-to-Park admission ticket, make sure to ride the Hogwarts™ Express from either King’s Cross Station in London at Universal Studios Florida™ and travel to Hogsmeade™ Station in Universal’s Islands of Adventure™, or ride the other way around for a different experience (you’ll see different characters and creatures featured in the films in each direction).

Take a Midday Break

If you made it to the park early then your littles will likely be tired by midday. We like to beat the Florida heat by taking advantage of the free shuttle service back to our hotel.  Our youngest children can recharge with a nap while our big kids have fun at the pool.

Another reason the Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort was such an awesome place to stay is the walking paths that connect the hotel to Universal’s Volcano Bay™. This water park has some of the best water attractions & slides we have ever experienced. It may be worth adding a day to your Universal Orlando trip to make sure you can take full advantage.

Pro Tip: Bring towels with you, since you do have to rent or purchase towels at Universal’s Volcano Bay™.

Child Swap is the perfect way for a family with little ones to enjoy big rides. One adult stays off the ride and waits in the designated “child swap room” with the child who is not tall enough to ride. When the rest of the family returns the adult gets to ride without waiting in line. Another added benefit of using the “child swap” is the second adult can take up to 3 guests with. So, you get to be the hero when your family members get to ride twice!

Food and Drinks

All of the hotels offer full-service, quick-service, and grab-and-go eateries. The food is pretty great.

One of our favorite features is to purchase the refillable cup. These Tervis style cups may be refilled at virtually any permanent beverage counter, quick-service, or full-service restaurant inside the parks and includes sodas, sugar-free and caffeine-free drinks and even ICEE (which my littles were excited about).

Meal times are also a good opportunity to get on more rides during your Universal Orlando trip with shorter wait times. This approach works for the popular parade and show times as well.

PS. Don’t miss this post sharing our FAVORITE places to eat at Universal Orlando !

Using Lockers

While going on a majority of the rides you will need to place your bags, purses, and cups in a locker. The only exceptions are the simulation rides such as Spider-Man, Kong, Minions, Fast & Furious, Jimmy Fallon, and Transformers. In fact, the outdoor rollercoasters even have metal detectors to make sure you don’t have your cellphone or keys in your pocket.

Our advice is to be prepared before you go up to the lockers. Some locker areas are dark and busy, so it is best to have the kids stay with one adult, if you are able to, while the other places your items in.

Single Rider Line

Going on rides is a big part of the Universal Orlando vacation experience. So when you have several little children and one older child it can become frustrating if she can’t experience the rides she was hoping for.

Save time by allowing your children (with our without an adult) who are 10 years and up go in the single rider line and bypass the long wait. Since there will often be one extra seat available while other guests wait to sit together, attendants will call for a single rider, which means this line is a short one!

How to Enjoy When Pregnant

Just because you’re expecting doesn’t mean you want to sit out on EVERY ride or experience. One way we were able to enjoy a few of the interactive experiences as a family was for my youngest and I to let an attendant know we’d need a stationary seat. This way we could all take part in Shrek 4-D and Despicable Me Minion Mayhem™ together.

Tips for the Tinier Tots

Rides at Universal Orlando all have height requirements, with many of them at 40-inches. But, that doesn’t mean there aren’t a ton of options for your tiny tots – between shows, some rides available for smaller toddlers and so many play areas.

Our whole family LOVED Seuss Landing with multiple rides at a lower height requirement AND the best cotton candy! Plus, Camp Jurassic, Curious George Goes to Town℠ Playground, Fievel’s Playland™ and Barney’s Backyard were plenty to keep our crew fully entertained, and I even explored some of the play areas with our littles while the bigger kids went on more rides. Oh, and don’t forget about meeting some favorite Marvel characters on the streets of Marvel Super Hero Island.

There’s An App for more Tips for Universal Orlando!

Yep, instead of carrying around a large, fold out map of the park or wondering how long the wait times would be at certain rides… there’s an app for that .

With the Official Universal Orlando Resort™ App you get interactive maps, see the latest wait times, search for food options, find show times , filter searches for rides based on categories and descriptions and see height requirements for each ride, etc. Plus, there’s free WiFi in the parks, so you don’t have to worry about data usage either.

Have a Happy Universal Orlando Trip

These are our 10 amazing tips for Universal Orlando, but we have a bonus idea for you. Although there is a thorough bag check they won’t take your snacks. Bring your own healthy snack to keep your littles happy in between food service stops.

Try this great recipe for healthy homemade granola on your Universal Orlando trip…. and have a happy one!

Plus, we’re sharing the best things to eat at Universal Orlando , so check that out and add it to your list too!

*A special thanks to the Universal Resort Orlando for hosting our family for a recent visit. All thoughts and opinions are, as always, 100% my own. 

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Krissy says

April 11, 2019 at 9:54 pm

Such good tips! I have never been before, but would love to go.

April 12, 2019 at 10:23 am

It looks like you guys had great time. Lovely photos xo

http://www.thennebyivana.blogspot.com

Becca Wilson says

April 12, 2019 at 11:12 am

I have only been to Orlando one time and it was a really long time ago. I totally want to go back and this was very helpful!

April 12, 2019 at 11:25 am

This is awesome. I want to visit Universal Orlando. I will definitely bookmark this page for reference when we finally get to plan a trip!!

Jennifer says

April 12, 2019 at 9:42 pm

This looks so fun! I am headed to Orlando in June – we should head here instead of Disney to do something different. <3

Rob Alter says

November 2, 2021 at 3:04 am

We just went in April and the bracelet system was fantastic! They must have gotten all the hiccups worked out because it was flawless. We rented chairs too. Our attendant brought us our food and refilled our water bottles all day long. It was a great experience.

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How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Universal Studios Hollywood

Here's everything you need to know about visiting Universal Studios Hollywood, from the best rides and restaurants to seasonal events and more.

Did you know that in the heart of Los Angeles you can sip on Butterbeer , come face to face with terrifying dinosaurs, and have an epic journey with adorable Minions? No acting experience required.

Universal Studios Hollywood is a theme park like no other, connected to a working movie and television production lot that's been around since the early 20 th century. The film studio first got into attractions with a tram tour in 1964 but has since evolved and grown into a bonafide theme park with thrilling rides, live entertainment, immersive lands, and thematically pleasing (and delicious) foods.

The theme park may be compact compared to its East Coast sibling, but it makes up for its smaller stature with top-notch attractions. Unlike other parks, it offers a welcomed level of flexibility requiring minimal pre-planning for visitors, appealing to both solo travelers and families alike. The park can be accomplished in one day for those short on time but looking to get a taste of what Tinseltown's only theme park has to offer.

Related : 20 Best Amusement Parks in the World

Universal Studios Hollywood Ticket Types and Prices

The ultimate Hollywood experience is surprisingly more affordable than you may have imagined. One-day general admission begins at $109, with two-day general admission beginning at $149. Using a dynamic ticket pricing system, the cost depends on the date of your visit, with weekends and holidays tiered higher. Front gate purchases will cost significantly more, and advanced online purchases are suggested.

Universal Express offers expedited access to almost every attraction and show with ticket packages beginning at $189. Guided VIP experiences begin at $349 and offer small group expedited access to rides and complimentary refreshments.

Luckily, when you inevitably fall in love with the park, it won't require a mortgage payment to visit again. Universal Studios Hollywood has one of the most affordable annual pass programs in the country, with the value of your park ticket able to be used towards the upgrade. Perks include free parking and discounts on food and merchandise, with the pass program starting at $159 for California residents and $199 for general guests.

Universal Studios Hollywood Layout

Comprised of two different levels, the upper lot and the lower lot, Universal Studios Hollywood is one of the easiest parks to navigate for first-time visitors. Guests enter on the upper lot and a series of escalators, known as the Starway, travel a quarter mile down to the lower lot.

The upper lot is the largest, comprised of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, The Simpsons -inspired Springfield U.S.A., the World-Famous Studio Tour, live shows, and more. The lower lot is home to Revenge of The Mummy — The Ride, TRANSFORMERS: The Ride 3-D, Jurassic World —The Ride, and several eateries and shops.

Universal Studios Hollywood Rides

Universal Studios Hollywood has a little something for everyone, from thrill junkies to young children, with attractions featuring your favorite characters, movies, and television series.

The park has experienced a period of growth over the last decade, including the milestone addition of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. While the land is smaller than its counterpart in Florida, it brings along its greatest hits, including e-ticket attraction, Harry Potter & The Forbidden Journey, and the popular wand-choosing experience, Ollivanders.

The newest attraction, Secret Life of Pets: Off The Leash! (exclusive to the Hollywood park), opened in 2021 and is a marvel of a dark ride seamlessly mixing industry-leading screen-based technology with animatronics. Located on the upper lot's Manhattan-inspired streets, the colorful area immerses guests in the loved movie franchise through playful character interactions.

On the lower lot, Jurassic World — The Ride is a water-based attraction that shines as one of the biggest thrills offered with pioneering feats in audio-animatronics since its refurbishment in 2021.

The World-Famous Studio Tour is a unique 60-minute journey that includes behind-the-scenes access to working sets while intermixing themed attraction experiences , all while sitting aboard a tram. With ever-changing production schedules, no two rides on this iconic attraction are ever the same. Through the theme park's commitment to becoming more environmentally friendly, the trams are being given an upgrade and will soon utilize all electric vehicles.

Other rides include a family-friendly Minions attraction, a Harry Potter -themed coaster for all ages, and interactive playscapes.

The first Super Nintendo World in the United States is slated to open in 2023, bringing new attractions.

Where to Eat at Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios Hollywood's dining options are quick-service, but that doesn't mean you'll sacrifice taste thanks to multitudes of globally inspired bites served in highly themed locations.

The popular eatery, Three Broomsticks, transports guests to the fantastical world of Harry Potter inside a dining hall straight out of the blockbuster franchise. British delicacies are the menu's focus, with traditional dishes like fish and chips and a standout English breakfast. No meal is complete without fan-favorite Butterbeer ice cream.

The whimsically themed Super Silly Fun Land houses a Minions-themed cafe with approachable eats, like a homestyle grilled cheese and tomato soup. In Springfield, beloved eateries from The Simpsons come to life, including Krusty Burger and Lard Lad (serving up giant pink donuts). On the lower lot, Jurassic Café offers unique bites, like slow-roasted mojo pork, and it is steps away from Isla Nu-Bar, a tiki outpost pouring tropical cocktails.

For those looking to imbibe during their park visit, there's no shortage of highly themed bars, including Moe's Tavern, Hog's Head in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and Mulligan's Irish Pub.

Those seeking a caffeine fix should avoid Starbucks and head straight to the French Street Bistro, a charming hidden gem with coffee drinks, breakfast, and snacks served throughout the day.

Universal CityWalk Hollywood

The property's dining and entertainment district, CityWalk, is adjacent to the theme park, where you can find the destination's table-service dining options. NBC Sports Bar & Grill is your go-to spot for sporting events and offers surprisingly excellent pub food, while Antojitos Cocina Mexicano has a wonderful patio and sprawling bar with Mexican eats and handcrafted cocktails. For casual options, the recently opened Chick Chick Chicken dishes out authentic Nashville-style hot chicken while the legendary Pink's Hot Dogs has an easy-to-access outpost of their iconic eatery.

No park ticket is required to visit CityWalk.

When to Visit Universal Studios Hollywood

Given its location in sunny Southern California, visitors can enjoy pleasant weather almost year-round. Weekdays between holiday seasons are the best time to visit for shorter lines at attractions and restaurants.

Visits during the theme park's two annual events, Halloween Horror Nights and Grinchmas, tend to be the most crowded. Halloween Horror Nights, a separately ticketed event, is the country's leading haunt event where Universal's soundstages are transformed into frightening walk-through experiences themed to the biggest horror franchises. Grinchmas, included with general theme park admission, sees gleeful holiday-inspired upgrades. Universal Express proves to be invaluable during these times.

How to Get There and Where To Stay Near Universal Studios

Universal Studios Hollywood is located in the heart of Los Angeles, approximately 20 minutes from nearby Hollywood Burbank Airport and 40 minutes from Los Angeles International Airport.

Daily parking rates for theme park visitors begin at $30 if entering the lot before 5 p.m. For those visiting a full-service restaurant at CityWalk, valet parking is available for up to 2.5 hours for $10.

Unlike Orlando's version, they do not have on-site, Universal-operated hotels, but hotel partners. Hilton Universal City & Sheraton Universal Hotel are located within walking distance of the park, with guests receiving perks like complimentary shuttles and discounted ticket packages.

Entertainment at the Theme Park

It's of no surprise that entertainment is a cornerstone of the theme park, including some of the most impressive displays of free-roaming characters that interact with guests, like Beetlejuice, Dracula, and Lucille Ball.

The theme park's live shows also shine, like "Waterworld: A Live Sea War Spectacular." Inspired by the cult-favorite film, the stunt show is celebrating over 25 years and uses actual pieces from the movie's sets along with large-scale pyrotechnics and captivating live actors. Other shows include the hilarious Universal's Animal Actors featuring real-life, Hollywood-trained pets.

Their nighttime offerings may be more scaled back than other parks, but the Harry Potter -themed evening spectacular is worth staying for. "Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle" combines music, lights, and projections all set to the stunning backdrop of the towering school of wizardry.

Universal Studios Hollywood Planning Tips

Download the official app, where you can quickly access the most up-to-date wait times, showtimes, maps, and more.

Many guests enter and begin their day at the upper lot's attractions. Instead, work backward by beginning at the lower lot to possibly relieve wait times.

The World-Famous Studio Tour typically embarks on its last ride of the day over an hour before park closing, so it is best to plan ahead for this experience.

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Universal Orlando Resort Reveals Exciting Collection of Experiences Debuting This Summer

Travel insights from universal orlando resort.

The new experiences, plus DreamWorks Land, will begin to debut on June 14 –  making Universal Orlando the “can’t-miss” theme park destination this summer.

This summer, Universal Orlando Resort will debut a captivating collection of new, must-see experiences that offer exciting entertainment for the whole family from day to night. The lineup of new adventures includes the June 14 grand opening of DreamWorks Land - the vibrant new themed environment inspired by beloved characters from DreamWorks Animation’s Shrek, Trolls and Kung Fu Panda; CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular - a riveting new nighttime lagoon show; and Hogwarts Always - an all-new castle projection show in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade. And on July 3, your clients will enjoy the debut of Universal’s largest daytime parade to date, Universal Mega Movie Parade .

“We are thrilled to debut an array of never-before-seen experiences for the entire family to enjoy from day to night,” said Karen Irwin, President & COO of Universal Orlando Resort. "These new experiences - coupled with the amazing attractions currently in our theme parks - will allow our guests to create lasting memories that will make this summer truly unforgettable." 

Here are all the details about the new experiences coming to Universal Orlando Resort this summer:

Cinesational: A Symphonic Spectacular (Debuting June 14 at Universal Studios Florida)

The waters of the Universal Studios Florida lagoon will come to life with an all-new nighttime show, CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular. The exhilarating new show will celebrate the emotional power of music by leveraging the iconic scores and scenes from blockbuster films that have inspired Universal Orlando’s past, present and future attractions – including Warner Bros. Pictures  Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films, Jurassic World , Jaws, Shrek, Ghostbusters, Trolls, Back to the Future, Universal Monsters, Transformers, How to Train Your Dragon, E.T., Fast and Furious, The Super Mario Bros. Movie, Minions, The Mummy and King Kong.

Just as awe-inspiring as the moments featured during CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular are the impressive collection of technologies and special effects that bring the show to life. The next-level lagoon show will feature 288 fountains that reach heights up to 131 feet, incredible 4K projection mapping, an original composition featuring newly arranged scores meticulously crafted to each scene, and more than 600 drones that fly directly over the lagoon – all coming together to envelop guests in a breathtaking display of unforgettable cinematic moments.

Universal Mega Movie Parade (Debuting July 3 at Universal Studios Florida)

Beginning July 3, some of the most beloved stories from Universal’s films will leap off the screen and land on the streets of Universal Studios Florida for Universal Mega Movie Parade – a spectacular celebration of iconic movies  E.T. , Back to the Future , Jaws , Ghostbusters , Jurassic World , Illumination’s Minions and Sing, along with DreamWorks’ Trolls and Kung Fu Panda . Universal Mega Movie Parade will be Universal Orlando’s biggest daytime parade to date and combine 13 brand new floats, nearly 100 performers – including dancers, skaters, stilt walkers, poi performers and more – and special effects to create a jaw-dropping experience where guests can relive classic film moments in a whole new way.

Guests will watch in awe as they see the massive 16-foot Stay Puft Marshmallow Man atop the Ghostbusters float, the colorful Caterbus and giant rainbows on the vibrant Trolls float, a live marching drum line perform the iconic movie score of Jaws alongside a float themed to the film, and – for the epic finale – a Gyrosphere, Raptors and the fierce Tyrannosaurus rex aboard the Jurassic World float – which breaks the record for the largest figure ever featured in a Universal Orlando daytime parade. Fans should also pay close attention to the parade to see if they can spot additional details that nod to iconic elements from the films.

Universal Orlando’s Summer Tribute Store will complement the new parade experience and feature themed rooms, merchandise and photo ops inspired by some of the films that will be seen in the Universal Mega Movie Parade. More details about the Summer Tribute Store will be revealed soon.

Hogwarts Always Castle Projection Show in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter -  Hogsmeade (Debuting June 14 at Universal Islands of Adventure)

On select nights, guests visiting The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade will delight in the nighttime extravaganza, Hogwarts Always – an incredible new projection show that will take guests on a journey through iconic moments of a school year at Hogwarts – all set against the majestic backdrop of Hogwarts castle. From supply shopping in Diagon Alley, and the exhilarating ride aboard the Hogwarts Express, to participating in the Sorting Ceremony, celebrating the House Cup winner and so much more, this visually stunning experience promises to captivate witches, wizards and Muggles of all ages.

The show will also feature four different endings that celebrate each Hogwarts house and will culminate with a colorful pyrotechnic display. Fans should also listen for dialogue from beloved characters like Professor Dumbledore, Hagrid, the Sorting Hat and more throughout the show.

DreamWorks Land (Opening June 14 at Universal Studios Florida)

The highly-anticipated new DreamWorks Land will make its official debut on June 14 at Universal Studios Florida – inviting guests to explore the vivid worlds of some of DreamWorks Animation’s most beloved characters from  Shrek , Trolls and Kung Fu Panda . The expansive new area will feature interactive play areas, character meet and greets, an all-new indoor live show experience, unique treats and photo-worthy moments that are fun for the whole family. Guests will be able to explore Shrek’s Swamp, enjoy the Trollercoaster, interact with Po in the Panda Village, encounter characters like Gabby from from Gabby’s Dollhouse and so much more. Plus, guests will be transported into the worlds of some of their favorite characters in DreamWorks Imagination Celebration – a multisensory live show that will bring beloved DreamWorks stories to life like never before. 

Starting now, guests visiting the parks can gear up for the amazing entertainment coming this summer with specialty merchandise celebrating the new experiences, including clothing, drinkware, headbands themed to beloved DreamWorks characters, and more. The selection also includes new original interactive bubble wands inspired by DreamWorks Animation's Trolls and Universal Pictures and Amblin Entertainment's Jurassic World. The bubble wands will activate fun features when interacting with other wands and will also interact with select Universal Mega Movie Parade floats when the parade debuts on July 3. More details will be revealed in the next few months.

Guests can take advantage of a variety of special offers to visit Universal Orlando this summer to experience the spectacular slate of new experiences plus all that the theme parks have to offer, including the 2-Park Play 4 Days ticket with admission to Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure. For more information about this offer, click  here . Stay tuned - additional Universal Orlando offers will be available soon.

For more information about Universal Orlando Resort, visit UniversalOrlando.com/NewIn2024 .

For more information about Universal Orlando Resort and to book the ultimate vacation for your clients, visit www.UniversalOrlandoAdvisors.com . You can also follow the Universal Destinations and Experiences Travel Professionals Facebook Page to receive the latest news, updates and more. Follow us on our blog , Facebook , Twitter , Instagram and YouTube .

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What’s New at Universal Orlando Resort in Summer 2024

I n Summer 2024, Universal Orlando Resort will debut a collection of new, must-see experiences that offer exciting entertainment for the whole family from day to night. The lineup of summertime adventures includes the June 14 grand opening of DreamWorks Land , the vibrant new themed environment inspired by beloved characters from DreamWorks Animation’s Shrek , Trolls , and Kung Fu Panda .

Also coming is CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular , a riveting new nighttime lagoon show, and Hogwarts Always , an all-new castle projection show in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade . On July 3, guests will enjoy the debut of Universal’s largest daytime parade to date, the Universal Mega Movie Parade .

“We are thrilled to debut an array of never-before-seen experiences for the entire family to enjoy from day to night,” said Karen Irwin, President and COO of Universal Orlando Resort. “These new experiences—coupled with the amazing attractions currently in our theme parks—will allow our guests to create lasting memories that will make this summer truly unforgettable.”

Here are all the details about the new experiences coming to Universal Orlando Resort this summer.

CINESATIONAL: A SYMPHONIC SPECTACULAR (Debuting June 14 at Universal Studios Florida)

The waters of the Universal Studios Florida lagoon will come to life with an all-new nighttime show, CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular . The exhilarating new show will celebrate the emotional power of music by leveraging the iconic scores and scenes from blockbuster films that have inspired Universal Orlando’s past, present, and future attractions.

They include Warner Bros. Pictures’ Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films, Jurassic World , Jaws , Shrek , Ghostbusters , Trolls , Back to the Future , Universal Monsters , Transformers , How to Train Your Dragon , E.T. , Fast and Furious , The Super Mario Bros. Movie , Minions , The Mummy , and King Kong .

Just as awe-inspiring as the moments featured during CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular is the impressive collection of technologies and special effects that bring the show to life.

The next-level lagoon show will feature 228 fountains that reach heights up to 131 feet, incredible 4K projection mapping, an original composition featuring newly arranged scores meticulously crafted for each scene, and more than 600 drones – all coming together to envelop guests in a breathtaking display of unforgettable cinematic moments.

UNIVERSAL MEGA MOVIE PARADE (Debuting July 3 at Universal Studios Florida)

Beginning July 3, some of the most beloved stories from Universal’s films will leap off the screen and land on the streets of Universal Studios Florida for Universal Mega Movie Parade , a spectacular celebration of iconic movies E.T. , Back to the Future , Jaws , Ghostbusters , Jurassic World , Illumination’s Minions and Sing , and DreamWorks Animation’s Trolls and Kung Fu Panda .

U niversal Mega Movie Parade will be Universal Orlando’s biggest daytime parade to date and combine 13 brand new floats, nearly 100 performers – including dancers, skaters, stilt walkers, poi performers, and more – and special effects to create a jaw-dropping experience where guests can relive classic film moments in a whole new way.

Guests will watch in awe as they see the massive 16-foot Stay Puft Marshmallow Man atop the Ghostbusters float, the colorful Caterbus and giant rainbows on the vibrant Trolls float, a live marching drum line perform the iconic movie score of Jaws alongside a float themed to the film, and – for the epic finale – a Gyrosphere, Raptors and the fierce Tyrannosaurus rex aboard the Jurassic World float – and much more. Fans should also pay close attention to the parade to see if they can spot additional details that nod to iconic elements from the films.

Universal Orlando’s Summer Tribute Store will complement the new parade experience and feature themed rooms, merchandise, and photo ops inspired by some of the films that will be seen in the Universal Mega Movie Parade .

HOGWARTS ALWAYS CASTLE PROJECTION SHOW IN THE WIZARDING WORLD OF HARRY POTTER – HOGSMEADE (Debuting June 14 at Universal Islands of Adventure)

On select nights, guests visiting The Wizarding World of Harry Potter —Hogsmeade will delight in the nighttime extravaganza Hogwarts Always, an incredible new projection show that will take them on a journey through iconic moments of a school year at Hogwarts—all set against the majestic backdrop of Hogwarts castle.

From supply shopping in Diagon Alley and the exhilarating ride aboard the Hogwarts Express to participating in the Sorting Ceremony, celebrating the House Cup winner, and so much more, this visually stunning experience promises to captivate witches, wizards, and Muggles of all ages.

The show will also feature four different endings that celebrate each Hogwarts house and will culminate with a colorful pyrotechnic display. Fans should also listen for dialogue from beloved characters like Professor Dumbledore, Hagrid, the Sorting Hat, and more throughout the show.

DREAMWORKS LAND (Opening June 14 at Universal Studios Florida)

The highly-anticipated new DreamWorks Land will make its official debut on June 14 at Universal Studios Florida – inviting guests to explore the vivid worlds of some of DreamWorks Animation’s most beloved characters from Shrek , Trolls , and Kung Fu Panda . The expansive new area will feature interactive play areas, character meet and greets, an all-new indoor live show experience, unique treats, and photo-worthy moments that are fun for the whole family.

Guests will be able to explore Shrek’s Swamp, enjoy the Trollercoaster, interact with Po in the Panda Village, encounter characters like Gabby from Gabby’s Dollhouse , and much more. Plus, guests will be transported into the worlds of some of their favorite characters in DreamWorks Imagination Celebration , a multisensory live show that will bring beloved DreamWorks stories to life like never before.

Starting now, guests visiting the parks can gear up for the entertainment coming to Universal Orland Resort in Summer 2024 with specialty merchandise celebrating the new experiences, including clothing, drinkware, headbands themed to beloved DreamWorks characters, and more. The selection also includes new original interactive bubble wands inspired by DreamWorks Animation’s Trolls and Universal Pictures and Amblin Entertainment’s Jurassic World .

The bubble wands will activate fun features when interacting with other wands and will also interact with select Universal Mega Movie Parade floats when the parade debuts on July 3.

The post What’s New at Universal Orlando Resort in Summer 2024 appeared first on Vital Thrills .

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Universal Orlando’s DreamWorks Land: Opening Date REVEALED

Kelsey Bowyer | April 29, 2024 April 29, 2024

Skadoosh! Beloved DreamWorks Animation franchises, including Shrek , Trolls , and Kung Fu Panda , unite to bring DreamWorks Land to life at Universal Studios Florida , with its grand opening scheduled for June 14, 2024. 

This land introduces a plethora of fresh experiences for all ages and opportunities to meet DreamWorks Animation characters. Guests can look forward to twisting and turning on the Caterbus with the Troll’s Trollercoaster , exploring the Panda Village at Po’s Kung Fu Training Camp , cooling off in Shrek’s Swamp for Little Ogres , and more! For an in-depth look at everything this land has to offer, be sure to explore our detailed blog post here .

Whether you’re a lifelong fan of DreamWorks Animation or discovering these beloved characters for the first time, DreamWorks Land offers something truly special for everyone. DreamWorks Land opens to guests on June 14, 2024. See you there!

Discuss this update with 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our  Orlando Informer Community  on Facebook and purchase your general discounted theme park admission  here .  And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on  TikTok ,  Threads ,  Facebook ,  Twitter , and  Instagram  for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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Reveal: universal studios’ new “universal mega movie parade”, about kelsey bowyer.

Kelsey hails from the land of chocolate, ketchup, and Mister Rogers – known to most as Pennsylvania. Her family’s annual visits to the sunshine state instilled a love of storytelling and theme parks at an early age. In 2015, she packed her bags for the Disney College Program but decided to make this move permanent and call Orlando home. When she is not roaming Orlando’s world-class Theme Parks with her husband, she can be found lost in a book, planning her next vacation, or petting dogs.

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New DreamWorks Land is just the beginning. Universal Orlando shares big summer plans.

Dreamworks land at universal orlando to open june 2024. when does epic universe, the brand new theme park, open sometime in 2025..

Ever wanted to train alongside Po, perform with Poppy or even swim in the swamp with Shrek? You'll soon get your wish (except that last one).

Universal Orlando Resort revealed its new DreamWorks Land will officially debut on June 14, along with several other new experiences for guests to enjoy this summer.

“We are thrilled to debut an array of never-before-seen experiences for the entire family to enjoy from day to night,” Karen Irwin, President & COO of Universal Orlando Resort, said in a news release. “These new experiences – coupled with the amazing attractions currently in our theme parks – will allow our guests to create lasting memories that will make this summer truly unforgettable.”

Where is DreamWorks Land?

The new themed environment inspired by DreamWorks Animation films and characters will be located where  Woody Woodpecker's KidZone used to be, near E.T. Adventure.

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Starting June 14, guests can explore the vivid worlds of some of DreamWorks Animation’s most beloved characters from "Shrek," "Trolls" and "Kung Fu Panda."

"The expansive new area will feature interactive play areas, character meet-and-greets, an all-new indoor live show experience, unique treats and photo-worthy moments that are fun for the whole family," Universal Orlando shared. "Guests will be able to explore Shrek’s Swamp, enjoy the Trollercoaster, interact with Po in the Panda Village, encounter characters like Gabby from 'Gabby’s Dollhouse' and so much more."

Several popular characters will also be featured in a new multisensory live show called DreamWorks Imagination Celebration.

New fountain and drone show coming to Universal Studios Florida

Universal Studios Florida lagoon will come to life with an all-new nighttime show, CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular.

Universal shared the new show will include iconic scores and scenes from films that have inspired Universal Orlando’s past, present and future attractions – including Warner Bros. Pictures' "Harry Potter" and "Fantastic Beasts" films, "Jurassic World," "Jaws," "Shrek," "Ghostbusters," "Trolls," "Back to the Future," Universal monsters, "Transformers," "How to Train Your Dragon," "E.T.," "Fast and Furious," "The Super Mario Bros. Movie," "Minions," "The Mummy," and "King Kong."

The lagoon show will feature 228 fountains reaching heights of up to 131 feet, 4K projection mapping, an original composition featuring newly arranged scores meticulously crafted for each scene, and more than 600 drones.

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Universal Orlando to debut new parade based on beloved films

Universal's new parade is perfect for any parkgoers who love films. Beginning Wednesday, July 3, Universal Studios Florida will debut its Universal Mega Movie Parade – a spectacular celebration of iconic movies.  

"Universal Mega Movie Parade will be Universal Orlando’s biggest daytime parade to date and combine 13 brand new floats, nearly 100 performers – including dancers, skaters, stilt walkers, poi performers and more – and special effects to create a jaw-dropping experience where guests can relive classic film moments in a whole new way," Universal shared in its news release.

New themed merchandise heading to parks

Guests visiting the parks can already start gearing up for the new entertainment coming this summer with specialty merchandise celebrating the new experiences, including clothing, drinkware, headbands themed to beloved DreamWorks characters, and more.

In the coming months, Universal Orlando’s Summer Tribute Store will complement the new parade experience and feature themed rooms, merchandise, and photo ops inspired by some of the films that will be seen in the Universal Mega Movie Parade.

Hogwarts Castle gets a new Harry Potter-inspired projection show

Universal officials conjured up some magic for its final announcement.

On select nights, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade at Universal Orlando's Islands of Adventure will delight guests with a new nighttime projection show, Hogwarts Always. The show seeks to take guests on a journey through iconic moments of a school year at Hogwarts, all set against the majestic backdrop of Hogwarts Castle.

The show will also feature four different endings that celebrate each Hogwarts house and will culminate with a colorful pyrotechnic display. Fans should also listen for dialogue from beloved characters like Professor Dumbledore, Hagrid, the Sorting Hat and more throughout the show.

What month will Epic Universe open?

In addition to DreamWorks Land and all the other new experiences, Universal Orlando will see some other exciting additions to its resort soon – a brand  new theme park . Just not this year.

Universal hasn’t yet announced an opening date for Epic Universe, only that it will open in 2025.

Epic Universe will feature five lands guests can explore. Altogether, it will have “more than 50 awe-inspiring attractions, entertainment, dining and shopping experiences,” according to a news release from the resort.

• Celestial Park   – The first-world guests enter the park will feature relaxing gardens, a “wet play area,” a grand carousel, and Starfall Racers, a dual-launch racing roller coaster with 5,000 feet of track and speeds up to 62 miles per hour. Celestial Park will also serve as the gateway to Epic Universe’s four other worlds, which will be accessed by themed portals.
• How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk  will give fans of the “ How to Train Your Dragon ” franchise a chance to finally soar like Hiccup, Astrid and their fellow Dragon Riders do on screen.
• Dark Universe – Guests can expect to “encounter everything from the experiments of Dr. Victoria Frankenstein to the shadowy landscape where monsters roam in a world of myth and mystery.”
• Super Nintendo World  will bring guests into the fan-favorite video game franchise for adventures with Mario, Princess Peach and more, like at  Universal Studios Hollywood .
• The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic  will blend "1920s wizarding Paris from Warner Bros. Pictures’ ‘Fantastic Beasts’ films with the iconic British Ministry of Magic from the Harry Potter series,” according to Universal Orlando, which is already home to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley.

Contributing: Eve Chen, USA TODAY