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Universal Orlando Resort is a must-see when you visit Orlando, Florida – and it’s so much more than just another theme park. Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’ve been before, the sheer scale of the parks and property can cause a bit of overwhelm. If you are ready to plan a trip to Universal, I’ve got you covered! To ensure you make the most of your time, here are our top 10 things to know for your first Universal Orlando vacation.
1. Three theme parks, all kinds of amazing.
Universal Orlando offers three parks full of fun-filled attractions for families to enjoy. From thrill-seeking rides and classic movie sets to make-believe worlds and soaking water slides, there’s something to make everyone smile. Visit Universal Studios for Diagon Alley, The Mummy Returns, Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon, Fast & Furious – Supercharged, and the Hogwarts Express. Islands of Adventure is where you’ll find Hogsmeade, Jurassic Park, Seuss Landing, and The Hulk. And for a wet and wild adventure, head on over to Volcano Bay, Universal’s water park, for the wildest water slides around. With so much to explore, there’s something for everyone at Universal Orlando!
Universal Studios
Universal Studios Florida: This park is dedicated to the movies, TV shows, and pop culture icons that we all know and love. Visitors can step into the world of Harry Potter and explore Diagon Alley, witness the chaos of a Minion-inspired 3D ride, or experience the thrills of an indoor roller coaster inspired by The Revenge of the Mummy. Other popular attractions include the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit roller coaster, the Transformers: The Ride 3D, and the classic E.T. Adventure ride.
Islands of Adventure
This park is home to some of the most thrilling rides and attractions in the world, as well as some of the most beloved characters in pop culture. Visitors can soar through the skies with Harry Potter on the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride, join forces with Spider-Man to save New York City or try to escape the raptors on Velocicoaster. Other popular attractions include the Incredible Hulk roller coaster, the Jurassic Park River Adventure, and the Skull Island: Reign of Kong ride.
Volcano Bay
This water park is unlike any other, with over 30 water attractions spread across 25 acres of tropical paradise. Visitors can brave the Krakatau Aqua Coaster, float down the Kopiko Wai Winding River, or relax on the sandy beaches of Waturi Beach. Other popular attractions include the Ko’okiri Body Plunge, the Maku Puihi Round Raft Rides, and the Punga Racers.
Together, these three theme parks offer visitors an unparalleled entertainment experience that is sure to leave them with memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you are a die-hard fan of Harry Potter, a lover of all things adrenaline-pumping, or simply looking for a fun-filled day in the sun, Universal Orlando Resort has something for everyone.
2. Single Park or Park-to-Park – Decide Which Ticket Option is Best
If you want to ride the Hogwarts Express, then the answer is simple. You will need a park-to-park ticket to ride this train. The Hogwarts Express carries passengers between Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure either outside of Hogsmeade or King’s Cross Station within the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Your park ticket will be checked upon entering King’s Cross Station (Universal Studios) or Hogsmeade Station (Islands of Adventure). The ride is different in each direction, so I definitely recommend riding it both ways!
Single Park Tickets
You can purchase a single park ticket, which allows you to visit one of the three theme parks – Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, or Volcano Bay – on a given day. These tickets offer great value for guests who have a specific park in mind that they want to visit and have limited time.
Park-to-Park Tickets
For guests who want to experience more than one theme park in a day, a park-to-park ticket is a great option. This ticket allows guests to visit multiple parks on the same day, and even hop between them as often as they like. For example, guests can start their day in Universal Studios Florida, head over to Islands of Adventure in the afternoon, and end their day at Volcano Bay. The two theme parks are so easy to hop between, that it really makes the most sense to have park-to-park tickets to experience everything! Especially for Harry Potter lovers, you’ll want to spend time going between the two Wizarding Worlds and be able to ride the Hogwarts Express.
Multi-Day Tickets
If you want to spend more than one day exploring the parks, you can purchase multi-day tickets, which offer significant savings compared to purchasing single-day tickets. Multi-day tickets are available in a variety of options and allow guests to visit one or more parks each day. How many days for Universal Orlando? Personally, I think you need at least two full park days for the theme parks. Add a third day if you want time to check out Volcano Bay!
3. Universal Express Pass vs. Universal Express Unlimited
Universal Express Pass is a ticket add-on that allows visitors to bypass the regular lines at most rides throughout Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios. Universal Express is good once per qualifying ride per day. Universal Express Unlimited is good multiple times on the same attraction each day. Pro tip: If you stay at Universal Orlando’s Premier hotels, you will receive this complimentary add-on for free with your vacation package. Most times, it is a better value to pay more for the hotel that includes Express Passes than to purchase them on their own!
Universal Express Pass
This pass allows guests to skip the regular lines and access the express lines one time per participating attraction at Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. It is available for purchase as an add-on to a park admission ticket, and the price varies depending on the day and season. The Universal Express Pass is a great option for guests who want to experience more attractions in less time and avoid waiting in the longer lines.
Universal Express Unlimited
This pass offers all the benefits of the Universal Express Pass but with unlimited access to the express lines. This means that guests can skip the regular lines and access the express lines an unlimited number of times at participating attractions at both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. The Express Unlimited Pass is available for purchase as an add-on to a park admission ticket and the price varies depending on the day and season. Express Unlimited is included with a stay at a Universal Orlando Premier resort.
To use the Universal Express Pass, you’ll use the Express line to enter the participating attractions. You won’t need to use the app or get a return time. So although the price can be steep, the ease of use and eliminating long wait times in line makes the Express Pass worth it. You’ll be able to make the most out of your time at Universal!
4. On-Site Hotels vs. Off-Site Hotels
Universal has a hotel for every style and budget. The hotels are broken down into four different categories, similar to the Disney resorts. Whether you’re looking to indulge in a five-star resort experience or prefer something more cost-effective and laidback, Universal has the perfect hotel for you.
Value
Universal Orlando’s first resort category contains the most affordable accommodations. These are budget-friendly properties a bit further away from Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios, and CityWalk. These value resorts offer complimentary transportation to Universal CityWalk, Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure, and Universal’s Volcano Bay.
Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites features a relaxed and easy feeling with a cool surf vibe woven throughout.
Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites is inspired by sand, sea, and breathtaking sunsets. This retreat has a coastal vibe.
If you are looking for the most economical option and don’t plan on spending a lot of time at the resort, staying at one of these resorts is the perfect option for you!
Prime Value
The Prime Value resorts at Universal Orlando are still affordable options but offer a few more amenities in the rooms and the resorts in general. These resorts offer complimentary bus transportation to Universal CityWalk, Universal Studios, and Universal’s Islands of Adventure. They also have a walking path directly to Universal’s water park, Volcano Bay.
Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort is a 1950s-inspired resort with two large pools, a lazy river, a bowling alley, and a retro arcade. It’s a great choice for families with kids, and it’s also a good value for couples or groups of friends.
Universal’s Aventura Hotel is a more modern resort with a sleek, minimalist design. It has an outdoor pool, a rooftop bar, and a variety of dining options. It’s a good choice for adults or couples who are looking for a more stylish and sophisticated stay.
Ultimately, the best Prime Value resort for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a family-friendly resort with plenty of activities, then Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort is a great choice. If you’re looking for a more stylish and sophisticated resort, then Universal’s Aventura Hotel is a good option.
Preferred
This level of property is a step up to the value properties. It is a bit closer to the parks compared to the value properties. There is a water taxi available to take you to the theme parks and Universal CityWalk, as well as bus transportation to Volcano Bay. There is a walking path to the parks, but the walk is a bit further than the premier resorts.
Lowes Sapphire Falls Resort is the only preferred resort at Universal Orlando. You’ll be surrounded by landmarks inspired by the islands. Enjoy the beach area, palm trees, and pool where you’ll find Caribbean-themed dining options.
If you’re looking for a Universal stay with a resort that has great dining options and good vibes, but not wanting to splurge on the premier resorts Sapphire Falls is your best bet.
Premier
As the top hotel category, you will have bigger rooms, more luxurious amenities, closer proximity to the parks, water taxi service from your hotel to CityWalk, and complimentary Universal Unlimited Express Passes included with your stay. All three are short walks to the theme parks which is a huge value.
Loews Portofino Bay Resort is a Mediterranean-inspired resort with a beautiful waterfront location. It’s a great choice for those who are looking for a luxurious and relaxing stay.
Loews Royal Pacific Resort is a Polynesian-themed resort with a lush, tropical setting. It’s a great choice for families with kids or adults who are looking for something fun and exciting.
Hard Rock Hotel is a rock ‘n’ roll-themed resort with a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. This resort is the closest to the theme parks.
If you’re looking for a luxurious and relaxing stay, then Loews Portofino Bay Hotel is a great choice. If you’re looking for a fun and exciting stay, then Loews Royal Pacific Resort or Hard Rock Hotel are good options.
Benefits of Staying on Property
Universal Orlando Resort offers a variety of on-site hotel options. Staying on property allows you to be close to the action and just steps away from the parks. You’ll also be able to enter one of the theme parks an hour earlier than other guests. Check the app for the early entry schedule! All on-property hotels offer complimentary transportation to the parks, as well as CityWalk, which is Universal Orlando’s dining, shopping, and entertainment district. You’ll have access to a shuttle, water taxi, or walkway to get around the property. While you are shopping, you can use your room key to charge purchases throughout the resort, including in the parks, at restaurants, and at merchandise locations. Premier resorts also include priority seating at select restaurants and complimentary Universal Express Unlimited Passes.
5. Know About Ticket Add-Ons
There are all kinds of add-ons to make your Universal Orlando vacation even more awesome. There’s the Marvel Character Dinner, photo packages, VIP experiences, and more. There is even a special Harry Potter package that includes some exclusive items! All of the Universal Orlando add-ons can be purchased when booking your vacation package. These options will allow you to enhance your park experience and enjoy additional perks and benefits.
6. Download the Universal Orlando App
Download the Universal Orlando app to use during your trip. It’s not quite like the My Disney Experience app where you link your resort reservation, but you will be able to see wait times, maps, join virtual queues, and more. Easily navigate the parks, discover nearby dining options, check showtimes, and even reserve a spot in the virtual line for select attractions, saving valuable time during their visit. With its user-friendly interface and up-to-date information, the Universal Orlando app is an essential companion for anyone seeking to make the most of their adventure at the parks.
7. Visit Universal’s CityWalk
Universal CityWalk is a vibrant dining, shopping, and entertainment district located at the entrance of Universal Orlando Resort. From dining to shopping to nightlife, CityWalk has it all! Here you will find the likes of Hard Rock Café, Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar, and Toothsome Chocolate Emporium. Be sure to stop by VooDoo Doughnuts and grab some late-night snacks or take them back to your room to eat for breakfast the next morning.
Dining
CityWalk offers a variety of dining options to suit every taste and budget, from casual to fine dining. Popular restaurants include the Hard Rock Café, Margaritaville, Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar, Voodoo Doughnut, and more. There are also several bars and lounges, including the Red Coconut Club, which offers live music and dancing.
Shopping
CityWalk features a variety of shops and boutiques, selling everything from souvenirs to designer apparel. Popular stores include the Universal Studios Store, Quiet Flight Surf Shop, Fossil, and P!Q.
Entertainment
CityWalk is home to several popular entertainment venues, including the AMC Universal Cineplex 20 with IMAX and the Hard Rock Live Orlando concert venue. There is also a mini-golf course, Hollywood Drive-In Golf, and a new themed escape room, Universal’s Great Movie Escape.
Nightlife
CityWalk comes alive at night, with several clubs and bars offering live music and dancing. The Red Coconut Club, the Rising Star karaoke bar, and Pat O’Briens are all popular nightlife destinations. It’s the perfect spot for an adults night out!
Parking and Transportation
CityWalk offers convenient self-parking and valet parking options if you have your own vehicle. There is a fee to park in the parking garage. There are also complimentary shuttles and water taxis available to transport guests between CityWalk and the on-site hotels and theme parks.
8. Universal Isn’t Just for Big Kids
Universal Orlando has the reputation of being a theme park for older kids and adults, but that isn’t completely true. While many of the rides do have height restrictions, there is still plenty of fun for the smaller kids to have. Seuss Landing in Islands of Adventure is a whimsical land that is based on the beloved children’s books of Dr. Seuss and features colorful rides and attractions, such as The Cat in the Hat, One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish, and Caro-Seuss-el. While many of the rides and attractions in the Wizarding World are geared towards older kids and adults, there are still several experiences that are suitable for younger children, such as Flight of the Hippogriff, a roller coaster that is mild enough for young riders. Universal Orlando also offers opportunities for kids to meet their favorite characters from popular franchises such as Despicable Me, Shrek, and SpongeBob SquarePants. These meet-and-greets are a great way for young children to interact with their favorite characters and snap some memorable photos.
There is even a child swap service at several of the rides. This allows younger guests to skip a ride (either because they are not tall enough or they do not want to go) and gives everyone else in the party an opportunity to hop on the attraction without having to go through the queue all over again.
9. Know What to Bring Into the Parks
Don’t get bogged down by bringing a bunch of items into the park. However, if you need to bring in a few personal items, there are lockers available throughout the parks. There are some paid options to use for the whole day but there are also free lockers at most of the major rides to use only while riding. Be sure your items will fit in this small locker size if you don’t want to pay for a locker! Keep in mind you will not be allowed to take your bags on most of the rides and all bags will be searched by security before entering the parks.
When preparing for a visit to Universal Orlando Resort, there are a few key items you should consider bringing along to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. You can expect to do a lot of walking at Universal Orlando, so it’s important to wear comfortable, supportive shoes. Florida is known for its sunny weather, and you’ll likely be spending a lot of time outdoors at Universal Orlando. Be sure to pack sunscreen with a high SPF and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes from the sun. Staying hydrated is really important too, especially in the Florida heat. Bring a refillable water bottle to fill up at water fountains throughout the park.
A small backpack or bag, like a belt bag, can come in handy for carrying essentials like sunscreen, water, and snacks. Florida weather can be unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to pack a lightweight poncho or rain jacket in case of rain. Don’t forget to bring your park tickets and a valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license. You’ll likely be using your mobile phone to take photos and navigate the park, so be sure to bring a charger or portable battery pack to keep your phone charged throughout the day. By packing these essential items, you’ll be prepared for a comfortable and enjoyable visit to Universal Orlando Resort.
10. Use a Travel Agent for Added Benefits
Tickets purchased through a travel agent guarantee you one-hour early access to the parks, even if you are not staying at a Universal Orlando Resort hotel. You will not be able to get this park by purchasing tickets through the Universal consumer site yourself.
As your travel agent, I can handle all of the logistics for your Universal Orlando vacation, including booking park tickets, hotel accommodations, transportation, and dining reservations. I will also provide guidance on where to stay, where to eat, and how to make the most of your time at the parks.
If you are ready to book a Universal vacation and need a travel agent to help, you’ve come to the right place! Contact me today for a free Universal quote.
By following these tips, first-timers at Universal Orlando can have a fun and memorable experience at the park. Planning ahead and utilizing the tools and services offered can help to ensure that you make the most of your time at the park, exploring the different attractions, sampling the unique dining and entertainment options, and more. With a little preparation, first-time parkgoers can enjoy an amazing experience at Universal Orlando.
