20 Amazing Tips To Plan A Trip to Universal Studios Orlando
Do you want to plan a trip to Universal Studios Orlando?
Awesome! Universal Studios Orlando is often the general term to refer to all three Universal parks in Orlando: Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay.
Let’s start with some basic information to help you plan a trip to Universal Studios. We will go over the things you need to know before you go!
As you plan a trip to Universal Studios we hope to give a few tips and tricks to make your vacation a success!
In this post, we are going to cover everything you need to plan a trip to Universal Studios Orlando. From tickets to hotels, and everything in between, planning a trip to Universal Studios is answered in this guide.
Let’s start planning a trip to Universal Studios Orlando you won’t forget!
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A Little History of Universal Studios
Universal Studios Florida opened on June 7, 1990, a second park was added in 1999: Universal’s Islands of Adventure. Universal Studios Orlando: Volcano Bay then opened on May 25, 2017.
Harry Potter World was a major addition to Universal Studios and is the highlight of the park, in my opinion. Keep in mind that Harry Potter only found his way into Universal Studios a relatively short time ago. It opened on June 18, 2010, and the Diagon Alley extension opened on July 8, 2014.
Universal has become one of the best things to do in Orlando and is still evolving. Planning a family trip to Universal studios Orlando is an unforgettable experience.
Let’s dive into more tips on planning a Universal Studios Orlando Vacation! We will give you all the answers on how to plan a trip to Universal Orlando.
1. Where is Universal Orlando?
Universal Studios Orlando is located about 20 minutes East of MCO airport. If you are coming from Disneyworld it is about an 18-minute drive.
2. What is the Best Time to Go to Universal Orlando? 
Honestly, there is a reason all the major theme parks are located in Orlando. The weather makes it so that the parks can be open year-round.
Weather in Orlando
The summers in Orlando are hot and humid. For me, hot + humid + little kids = death to any plan to have a full (enjoyable) day at an amusement park. Going as adults or older kids is a different story. We went last summer and had a great time.
What I like about Universal is that there are plenty of places with air-conditioning. Most of the lines for the rides have to be air-conditioned.
Fall can be a little hot as well but not as intense as summer.
Florida is perfect the rest of the year! So when I start planning a Universal Studios Orlando vacation I like to go anytime between October – and May.
Crowd Levels
Go to Universal Orlando in off-peak times. If you look at the ticket prices, that is a good indicator of crowd levels. Holidays and weekends tend to be busier. If you can go when children are traditionally in school, you will usually find better weather and wait times. Hopefully, this tip will help you plan your Universal Studios vacation.
3. Hours of Operation
Islands of Adventure – Opens 9:00 am
Universal Studios – Opens 9:00 am
Volcano Bay – 10:00 am
Closing times vary depending on the season.
Hot Tip
If you stay on the resort you have access to the park an hour earlier than general admission. It is very important to know park times as you plan a trip to Universal Studios Orlando.
4. Parking at Universal Studios
The address to the parking garage is:
- 6000 Universal Boulevard
Orlando, FL 32819
Daily Parking Fees Per Vehicle
- Prime Parking:
$36 - Prime Upgrade:
$9 - RV/Bus Parking:
$32 - Regular Parking:
$26
Receive a complimentary upgrade to prime parking with Avis and Budget car rentals at the MCO Airport. (Voucher required. Payment for regular parking is required.)
Self-parking is free after 6:00 pm.
Hot Tip
As you exit the parking garage be prepared for a long walk. Luckily, there are moving sidewalks and escalators along the way.
5. Tickets to Universal Orlando
As you are planning your trip to Universal Studios you will need to purchase tickets. Personally, I like to purchase my tickets ahead of time. This will usually save you money.
There are a few different types of tickets to choose from:
- 1-Day, 1-Park ticket: Valid for a particular day only.
- 1-Day, Park-to-Park ticket: Visit multiple parks on the same day.
- 2-Day, Park-to-Park, or one park ticket: Valid for one day and then any second day within seven days after that.
- 2-4-Day, 3-Park ticket: Valid for one day and then any three days after that within seven days after that. You can visit all three parks.
- Universal Express Unlimited Ticket: Entitles the holder to skip the regular lines on most rides and attractions.
- VIP Experience Tickets: This ticket includes exclusive backstage access and the ability to enjoy the parks’ most amazing rides and attractions without waiting in line.
Prices vary based on the date you choose to go, but not by much.
Travel Agent
Getaway Today is a great resource to plan a trip to Universal Studios Orlando. They are very knowledgeable and can plan your Universal Studios Orlando trip for you!
6. Discounted Tickets for Universal Studios
There are a few ways to save money on tickets. Universal usually offers promotions throughout the year. A promotion that I have seen often is “buy 2 days get 2 free.” The longer you stay at Universal Studios the more you will save.
GetAwayToday
You may be able to save money by booking a vacation package. You can use GetawayToday to help you plan. I have a coupon code you can use on a vacation package. This will help you save even more money – (PlanAway10)
Costco and Costco Travel
Discount tickets are sometimes available at the Costco store. In Utah, we often see discounted tickets for the California Universal Studios. It is worth a shot to check it out at a local Costco nearby.
On Costco Travel there are also packages to choose from that could save you money. Sometimes they will just offer a Costco gift card on top of already published promotions.
These packages include:
AAA Discount
AAA does offer a discount but you will want to compare it with the current promotions that the park itself is offering. Check out AAA Discount.
Use Points
Use credit card points to buy Universal Orlando Tickets including, American Express, Chase Ultimate Rewards, Hilton HHonors, Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards, IHG Rewards Club, and Regal Crown Club.
I looked into using my Chase Rewards but they probably would go farther booking airfare.
Military Discounts
Active duty military with valid military IDs can receive a discount when purchasing multi-day tickets at the front gate ticket window at Universal Orlando Resort.
You must present your current military or Department of Defense identification at any participating ITT or LTS office on base.
Florida Resident Discount
Discounts given to residents are pretty significant. In some cases, even half the cost depending on the time of year and other promotions being offered.
Season Passes
If you live close enough that a season pass would make sense, then there are a few options to choose from check out the season pass information.
Group Discounts
Group discounts are available but you have to call Universal Orlando directly to get more information.
Do Ticket Prices Change Based on the Time of Year I Go?
Somewhat. The changes seem to be less volatile, but you will see about a $10, maybe $20 increase based on the time of year and whether you are going on a Saturday.
7. Do I Need Park to Park Ticket?
Depends, Let’s explore some of the reasons you would want a Park-to-Park ticket and why you might not.
Reasons to Get a Park to Park Ticket:
- You are a Harry Potter fan and want to ride the Hogwarts Express.
The Hogwarts Express is only available to ride if you have a Park-to-Park ticket.
- You want to spend time at a specific area in each park.
- Option to change parks if one is too busy.
Reason Not to Purchase a Park-to-Park Ticket:
- Significantly, more expensive.
- Only want to spend all your time at one park.
- Do not want to transition because of time between parks
Park-to-Park Ticket
If you do decide to purchase a park-to-park ticket there are two ways to “hop” parks. One is the Hogwarts Express but the line can get long. The other way is to go through the entrance. The parks are close together so it is not a big deal.
If your main purpose is Harry Potter World and that experience, then it is worth it to buy a park-to-park ticket, if not you are all good!
8. How Many Days Should I Spend at Universal Studios Orlando 
One of the most important parts of planning a trip to Universal Studios Orlando Vacation is planning the number of days you want to spend at the park.
The first time we went we were told that we would be able to do everything in one day. This was false information. You could do one park in a day but not both parks.
If you are a Harry Potter fan you could spend most of your day just in that section alone.
Stay Longer
As I said earlier, the longer you stay the better the ticket price is per day. So how long should you stay? It really depends on how much time you have. If you want to do all three parks I would allow a park per day.
9. Plan a Trip to Universal Studios Orlando – Accommodations
As you plan a trip to Universal Studios accommodations are a huge part of the planning process. Universal‘s hotels are really nice. Just like Disney World, there are different levels: value, prime value, preferred, and premier.
Let’s go through each so you know what to expect.
10. Value Hotels
Benefits of staying at this level is early admission to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. There is also free and easy transportation.
Endless Summer Resort
Value is a new category just added in 2019 with the opening of Universal‘s Endless Summer Resort. There are two hotels in this category. Surfs Side Inn and Suites and Dockside Inn and Suites.
Each room is themed! These rooms also sleep up to six guests, which is a big plus for larger families and groups!
When we planned our trip to Universal Studios Orlando, a couple of years ago, we were very limited in where we could stay because we had a family of six. This new hotel is an awesome addition for families!
11. Prime Value
Prime value, like value, gives you early admission to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, as well as free and easy transportation. There are also two hotels in this category.
Adventura Hotel
Adventura Hotel is a new hotel, built-in 2018. It is designed to be sleek, stylish, and modern. It has a great view of all three parks. These rooms are equipped with high-tech tablets that control everything in your room!
Universal Studio’s Florida-Cabana Bay
Universal‘s Cabana Bay Beach Resort is a great family option. It has a very retro theme. We actually stayed here on our last trip and really liked it. The room we received was very large to fit a family of six! We really loved the lobby and arcade.
Cabana Bay has a courtyard in the middle, with a 10,000 square foot, zero-entry pool, a water slide, and a play area. Four buildings surround the courtyard. In the front is the lobby with amenities. The other buildings make a “U” around the rest of the courtyard. There is a laundry facility at each building.
Benefits of Staying at Cabana Bay
We stayed at the building on the opposite of the courtyard from the lobby. What we found is that it was a long walk to get places on the site. So what does prime value give you that value does not?
Location
One thing is location. These hotels are closer to the parks, and unlike the value hotels, have a walking path to get to the parks as well as the shuttle buses. These hotels also offer full-service restaurants, as well as access to kids’ camp and spa for additional fees. This is one thing to consider when you plan a trip to Universal Studios.
Cabana Bay also has something to offer that the hotels in this and other categories do not: a lazy river and a bowling alley. It also has a kitchenette option. Pizza delivery is available only at the value level not above!
12. Preferred
Benefits of preferred hotels start out with most of the same perks as prime value, including early admission to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and transportation.
Unlike the first two categories, there is currently only one hotel that is a preferred – Lowes Sapphire Resort.
Lowes Sapphire Resort
Lowes Sapphire Resort has an island paradise feel. You will be steps away from the new water park Volcano Bay. The feel is going to be a little nicer than the value resorts.
The hotel also has a concierge desk, business center, room service at all times.
13. Premier
Benefits at staying at this level start out with most of the benefits of preferred, an Express Unlimited Pass is included with a stay which gets you to the front of the line on rides at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. All the pools are amazing in this tier.
Lowes Royal Pacific Resort
Lowes Royal Pacific Resort has a South Pacific feel and is the highest tier of hotels that Universal offers. One problem we found is that there are not many accommodations that will fit a large family. If you have a small family and love luxury this is your place.
Hard Rock Hotel
Hard Rock Hotel you can really feel like a rock star. This may be a better option if you are planning a Universal Studios Orlando adult trip. There is a club level offered at this hotel which is a swanky seventh-floor experience. They offer special food and services throughout the day.
We have stayed at club level at Disney before, and if it is anything like what we experienced, you may not want to go back to normal hotel stays.
Lowes Portofino Bay
Image Courtesy of Universalnsider
Lowes Portofino Bay has an Italian feel. The views are amazing and is a great high-level tier hotel.
Weddings and other events take place at this hotel, just to give you an idea of the elegance that it holds. Plus, they offer themed rooms that will make your vacation a little extra special.
Hotels Near Universal Studios
There are many hotels around the Universal area. The area is nice and usually less expensive. The two things to consider when deciding to stay on-site or off are if you want the extra hour in the park and knowing that you will have to pay to park each day you go.
Is It Worth It To Stay At A Premier Hotel?
I have not stayed at any hotel other than Cabana Bay Beach Resort, so I can’t tell you from first-hand experience if it’s worth it.
What I will tell you is that a few years back at Disney World we stayed most of the time at a moderate, and the last night prices dipped and we splurged on a luxury hotel. The pool was amazing. The rooms were great.
The atmosphere was sublime. Maybe someone slipped something in the water, but I have to be honest; it’s hard going back. I imagine the same could be said about the hotels at Universal. Maybe ignorance is bliss.
14. Arrive Early
No matter which amusement park we go to we always arrive early. We find that most people do not get up early and arrive right when the park opens. Using this strategy will enable you to walk onto any ride you want the minute you enter the park.
Our Experience
On our last trip to Universal, we logged into our app the minute we walked into the park and immediately reserved a time for Hagrid’s Magical Creature Motorbike Adventure.
During Covid, the crowd levels were not an issue. But as life begins to return to normal and more people begin traveling this tip is very important.
Visit During The Week
As you plan a trip to Universal Studios make sure to schedule your days of attendance in the middle of the week. Weekends tend to get so busy. If you want less crowds plan accordingly.
We went during the week and loved that we were able to see and do more!
Let’s Plan a Trip to Universal Studios
Universal Orlando consists of three theme parks. Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay. This is just a brief overview of what you can expect in each park as you plan a trip to Universal Studios Orlando.
15. Universal Studios Florida
Universal Studios is a lot like its sister park in California. Most of the rides at Universal Studios are a virtual experience aside from Hollywood Rip Ride Rocket. There are about 14 different rides.
Two kiddie lands are located at Universal Studios, as well as a parade, and character meet and greets.
There are a ton of shows! If you love having a seat and being entertained you will love Universal Studios.
16. Harry Potter World
Universal Studios has the Diagon Alley part of the Harry Potter World. This includes King Cross Station, Gringotts, and the Knight Bus. All of which are in London. Ollivanders wand shop and Harry Potter souvenirs are in both parks. You can eat at the Leaky Cauldron.
There is also a few shows: Tales of the Beatle and the Bard and Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees
17. Islands Of Adventure
Islands of Adventure is a fun park that includes Marvel, Jurassic Park, Dr. Seuss, Skull Island, Harry Potter, and Toon Lagoon. There are so many rides at Islands of Adventure.
There are some exciting shows as well Poseidon’s Fury and Oh, the stories you’ll hear are great options.
My Opinion
This is my favorite park. I love all the themes. The rides are amazing and this is where I would want to spend most of my time. My all-time favorite ride is Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. I would be happy to ride this ride over and over again.
18. Harry Potter World
Hogsmeade is located in the Islands of Adventure area. The new Hagrid’s Magical Creature Motorbike Adventure, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, Flight of the Hippogriff, and Ollivanders are located here.
There are some great shows in the Harry Potter World: The Dark Arts at Hogwarts nighttime show, The Nighttime Show at Hogwarts, Triwizard Pep Rally, and the Frog Choir. (the nighttime shows are not happing in 2021)
You can also grab a bite to eat at Three Broomsticks.
19. Volcano Bay
Volcano Bay is a water park. There are a bunch of slides and other water activities that can help cool you off from the heat. The rides at Volcano Bay are awesome! One thing that is really cool is the Tapu Tapu.
The Tapu Tapu is something you wear that gives you access to sign up for virtual lines. When it is time to ride your bracelet will tell you.
Should I Go to the Water Park?
If you are making a week trip to Universal, why not? It breaks up the time by giving you something new to do. But if you are only there a short time, you may want to skip this. It is close to the main parks, but not too close. And so it’s not a convenient walk if you are trying to jam multiple things into one day.
However, if it is hot this could be a great idea to go!
Can I Exchange my Volcano Bay Ticket if it Rains or is Too Cold?
The customer service is amazing at Universal. If you need to talk with them about issues that arise they will hopefully answer any of your questions. Many people received refunds if the conditions do not meet their expectations.
20. Helpful Tips to Plan a Universal Studios Trip
I just wanted to throw in a few helpful tips that will help you as you plan your trip to Universal Studios.
Can You Bring Outside Foods and Drinks Into the Park?
Universal doesn’t want you to bring in outside food and drinks (surprise, surprise). The official policy allows for bottled water and small snacks. There are a few other exceptions, and you can see the policy here: Universal Orlando Food and Drink Policy. But don’t worry the restaurants at City Walk are pretty awesome and worth trying!
Do I Need a Swim Suit at the Amusement Parks?
There are a few water rides at Islands of Adventure that will soak you to the bone. If you want your kids in swimsuits they may like that when you decide to ride those rides. You could also bring ponchos to avoid getting soaked.
At Universal Studios Florida there is a splash pad and water slides for the kids. You may want to bring the swimsuits with you so they can change and have fun in the water.
Are You Ready To Plan A Trip to Universal Studios Orlando?
Hopefully, this helps you plan a trip to Universal Studios Orlando! I know you are going to have so much fun! This park is amazing! It is one of the best amusement parks in the USA.
Planning a trip to Universal Studios makes me so happy! It is one of my favorite things to plan! Be sure to ask me questions in the comments below!
Facebook Community
If you have any questions be sure to join my Facebook Travel Community This great community can help answer any questions you may have about your upcoming trips. Plus, I try to add any great deals or promotions that companies send me!
Wow, you have a lot of info in this post. I will definitely use your suggestions when we book our next trip. I’m hoping to get my older daughter -who doesn’t like Harry Potter- to go to Universal. We’ll see how that works.
My goodness, this is such a well written and informative post. Thanks so much for sharing.
Thanks!
As always, a very compressive overview…love the comparisons between the two parks. Really helps to make a decision.
Great information! I love how you compared the two parks! Personally, I love Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls.
Great post! I don’t know very much about Universal at all, but my family has made four trips to Disney. We need to try it on one of our trips. My youngest is slowly growing out of the princess phase. We plan to head back to Orlando in 2021 for Disney’s 50th. Maybe we can add a couple of days here. Thanks for this information about the parks!
This article is so helpful! Any park that’s a big as these are are naturally expensive so your advice will be really helpful to families torn on which park to go to. Thanks!
This is a great post! It has so many great tips. I grew up going to Universal but haven’t been in years. It was great to hear your opinion on the new waterpark. thanks for sharing!
No problem!
Lots of great info here! It’s definitely been too long since we’ve visited Universal!
This is a great post and very informative. I had one day in Universal (my mil got us the VIP service). I would love to go back and spend more time there.
The best time I have found to go is in September. Everyone is in school and the South American holidays haven’t started yet. We enjoy both Disney and Universal, but as the kids got older, they really enjoyed Universal. This is a great informational post!
Okay, we are planning a trip this September, I glad it is a great time to go!
We lived in Orlando for 10 years and consistently enjoyed all the theme parks. Your thoughts and recommendations provided helpful considerations for visitors to think about. Lived in SoCal for a decade as well and prefer the Orlando theme parks over the Hollywood parks for all the reasons you mentioned.
I am a Orlando fan for sure!
Thanks for all of the practical and money saving details!
No problem!
Lots of great information, thank you for sharing!
Your Welcome!
Wow. This is so complete. Like a one stop resource.
Thanks, Hopefully it will help plan an amazing trip!
Fantastic post. I enjoyed the new format.
Thanks Heather!
So much great info. As a Central Florida resident, I sadly don’t know much about Universal……yet!
Julie, you have to go it is so close!
I love learning about the inside scoop!!! Thank you for sharing.
Your Welcome!
I haven’t been to Universal Studios since 2004! I hope we get to go either this year or early 2020!
If you love Harry Potter, it is now such a great addition to the park!
There is so much good information! We have never been. But if we every decided to go I’ll use this information.
For Sure!
Whenever I plan a trip to a theme park like this, I always wonder which parts of the park to see so thank you for providing those tips too!
It can be overwhelming going for the first time! It’s nice to have direction!
We stopped at Universal just because it was something to do one of our days over spring break. Turned out to be a family favorite and preferred over our three other days at Disney! I can’t wait to go back.
That’s awesome!
Wow! This is so comprehensive–thanks so much for all the work you put into this. Will make our trip-planning much easier next time.
Thanks, my husband I sit around and think about all the things we wish we would have known and what we liked and didn’t like!
I’ve always wanted to go to Universal Studios. This like fun and should be added to the bucket list. Thoughtful tips.
I agree, it should be on bucket list!
I am so hoping to make it to Florida this year. Thank you for this post. It gives me some insight into the parks. I really appreciate it. Thanks so much for sharing.
Florida is such a cool place with so many fun things to do!
super cool detailed comparison providing amazing tips! this post will definitely save much time for our family once we start planning our visit!
Thanks, I hope it does help!
Love this! So much great information! Now I want to plan a trip back to Universal!
I know me too! I just love Florida!
I love the chart comparison, very helpful. I’ve only taken the kids to Volcano Bay and we loved it!
We haven’t had a chance yet to go to Volcano Bay. I bet it is so fun!
Sounds like a lot of fun!! I’ve never been to either (world or land), so I think I’m ready with all the 411 on this trip now.
Oh good, Universal is actually entirely separate from Disney. Both parks are really great!
Great resource! Although… the last 3 times we went to Universal, we BARELY left the Harry Potter area! LOL. We forced the kids to walk through the rest of the park, just to see if MAYBE they wanted to try anything else!
I love the Harry Potter area too! Never want to leave!
I have been looking to visit Disney or Universal. Sounds like Universal is a better way to go and has more to offer.
Depends, Disney is amazing. If you love Harry Potter and you have older kids Universal is fantastic.
So much great information! I’ve only been to Universal Hollywood, I’d love to go to this one!
It is a lot bigger in Orlando!
WOW! This is complicated to know what is the best options for each situation.
Lots of choices!
I really want to visit Harry Potter World! It would be fun to do it all though. I haven’t been to the Florida parks in years.
They are so fun!
I would love to go to Universal Studios, especially Harry Potter World!
It is amazing! You will love it!
We always enjoyed these parks with our kids. There is so much more to do now! Thank you for all of the helpful info about Orlando!
There is so much to do! We love it!
I visited Universal Studios in Orlando with my daughter. Harry Potter was the draw card for us to go there. And, we had lots of fun in the two parks.
We love love love Harry Potter.
Love this great guide on how to plan a trip to Universal Studios in Orlando! Your tips will ensure a great visit to this theme park!
We love Universal! It is so fun to plan.
These are great tips to plan a trip to Universal Studios in Orlando. I’ve never been, so I love all of the budget-saving tips here too.
Thanks! You will have to go!