family of 4 trip to universal studios orlando

My family of 4 spent $2,149 for one day at Universal Orlando. Here's what we did and how we'd save money next time.

• My family of four visited Universal Orlando  for one day and it cost us over $2,000. 
• We spent our money on four park-to-park tickets, four Express Passes, and food.
• I have no regrets, but I'd plan differently and make some tweaks next time to save money. 

Over the past two years, my two kids — who are now 12 and 13 — and I have become disenchanted with Disney World . Instead, we've been wanting to visit Universal Orlando.

I've taken my kids to Disney World once a year since they were small, but ticket prices have increased, and I think it's nearly impossible to go on more than a few rides unless you purchase Genie+ and add on Individual Lightning Lanes with per-ride, per-person fees.

So, during our Disney trip in December, we spent a day at Universal Orlando . Here's how it went and what it cost. 

We spent the majority of our budget on Express Passes

Unfortunately for us, our December visit was during the most popular — read: expensive — time of year, and tickets and Express Passes cost us over $2,000.

I winced when I hit "purchase" and I wince when I think about how much we spent for one day of fun. We prioritize experiences and time together over possessions, but we are not a wealthy family.

The trip to Orlando in December was our family's Christmas present, which made me feel a little better about the cost. 

Here's the breakdown:

• Four park-to-park tickets — $856 , or $214 each
• Four Universal Express Passes — $1,200, or $300 each
• Food and snacks — $93, which got us a large doughnut for breakfast from Lard Lad Donuts, lunch for four at the Leaky Cauldron, and a soft pretzel

With our Express Passes, we were able to go on 13 rides in 12 hours 

We spent 12 hours in the parks and rode 13 rides because we could skip lines with our Express Passes.

We could've gotten to the parks earlier and stayed longer — there were 90 minutes until closing when we decided to leave for the day — but 12 hours was our sweet spot.

What we rode at Universal Studios Florida:

• Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
• Revenge of the Mummy
• E.T. Adventure
• Fast & Furious — Supercharged
• MEN IN BLACK Alien Attack
• The Simpsons Ride
• Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon
• Transformers: The Ride 3D
• Hogwarts Express from King's Cross Station — this ride took us from Universal Studios Florida to Islands of Adventure

What we rode at Islands of Adventure:

• Flight of the Hippogriff
• Skull Island: Reign of Kong
• The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man
• The Incredible Hulk Coaster

We skipped Jurassic World VelociCoaster and Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure because these newer attractions were not included in our Express Passes and the wait time for was over two hours for each.

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey — the ride we most wanted to go on at Islands of Adventure — wasn't running during our visit. We also skipped the rides in Seuss Landing because they're geared toward younger children. 

I have no regrets, but we'll do our day differently next time to save money

I try not to think about what else that $2,000 could have been spent on and instead try to remember that almost-perfect park day with my family .

Related stories

Obviously, the Express Passes were the biggest expense ,but using them to skip lines is what made our day so amazing.

If I could do it over, I'd have skipped the tickets that let us go to two parks and instead just got one for Universal Studios Florida, where we spent the bulk of our day. That would've saved us about $55 per ticket, or $220 in total. 

In the future, I'd consider either visiting during a less-busy time when the lines aren't so long or buying Express Passes during a cheaper time — really, any other time of the year besides the week after Christmas.

I'd also consider staying at one of Universal Orlando Resort's premier hotels, where bookings come with Express Passes. Those hotels are also close to the parks .

I've priced visits at various points in the year and all combinations of the strategies I've mentioned would cost me much less than the trip I just took.

I don't regret my trip, but I know I can go for better value next time.

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Recommended

Family of four’s $1,113 trip to universal studios shocks internet.

A TikTok video documenting how a one-day family outing to Universal Orlando Studios in Florida set it back more than $1,100 went viral over the weekend, generating more than 1.5 million views.

Miranda Pearce, a British marketing expert, flew with her husband and their two young sons to the Orlando theme park.

“The cost of 1 day at Universal Studios,” the caption read against the backdrop of a photo of the family.

The family paid $483.66 for tickets plus an additional $396 for Fast passes, which allows visitors to skip the line at some of the rides.

Pearce and her husband also paid $62.79 for lunch; $42.60 for souvenirs; $36.39 for dinner; $27 to park their car; $21.79 for breakfast; $19.76 for ice cream: $19.16 for drinks; and $4.25 for coffee.

“That’s not even including tips,” Pearce wrote. She added the dollar sign, surprised face, and eyebrows raised emojis.

The video was first reported by Newsweek.

@mirandapearcemindset That’s not even including tips 😳💲 #universalstudiosflorida #familydaysout #florida #vacationcosts #medicalaesthetics ♬ original sound – Miranda Pearce

The commenters on TikTok who responded to the video were shocked at the exorbitant price tag.

One responder wrote that the family “could have gone away to Portugal for a week and rented a villa for that.”

Another commenter wrote: “[Universal] absolutely fleece[s] their guests.”

One TikTok user remarked that it would be much cheaper to fly to Turkey and stay at an all-inclusive hotel for three nights.

Another commenter wrote that she and her partner are “starting an Orlando fund to take our 2 kids but I fear no matter how much we save we just won’t be able to afford it.”

The Post has sought comment from Universal.

Earlier this year, a survey conducted by the home rental firm HomeToGo found that the most affordable theme park in the US was Tropic Falls at OWA in Alabama.

The survey took into account the total costs including tickets, parking and accommodations. One adult looking to book a trip to Tropic Falls would have to pay just $22.49 for a ticket and $72.67 per night for accommodations.

Parking was free of charge.

Universal Studios in Orlando ranked 22nd on the list. A ticket costs an average adult $129 while parking costs $27. A nightly stay would set an adult back $48.14.

The least affordable theme park on the list was Wal Disney World’s Magic Kingdom resort in Florida, the survey found. An adult would have to fork over $129 for admission; $25 for parking; and $126.80 for nightly stay.

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My family of 4 spent $2,149 for one day at Universal Orlando. Here's what we did and how we'd save money next time.

My family of four visited Universal Orlando  for one day and it cost us over $2,000.

We spent our money on four park-to-park tickets, four Express Passes, and food.

I have no regrets, but I'd plan differently and make some tweaks next time to save money.

Over the past two years, my two kids — who are now 12 and 13 — and I have become disenchanted with Disney World . Instead, we've been wanting to visit Universal Orlando.

I've taken my kids to Disney World once a year since they were small, but ticket prices have increased, and I think it's nearly impossible to go on more than a few rides unless you purchase Genie+ and add on Individual Lightning Lanes with per-ride, per-person fees.

So, during our Disney trip in December, we spent a day at Universal Orlando . Here's how it went and what it cost.

We spent the majority of our budget on Express Passes

Unfortunately for us, our December visit was during the most popular — read: expensive — time of year, and tickets and Express Passes cost us over $2,000.

I winced when I hit "purchase" and I wince when I think about how much we spent for one day of fun. We prioritize experiences and time together over possessions, but we are not a wealthy family.

The trip to Orlando in December was our family's Christmas present, which made me feel a little better about the cost.

Here's the breakdown:

Four park-to-park tickets — $856 , or $214 each

Four Universal Express Passes — $1,200, or $300 each

Food and snacks — $93, which got us a large doughnut for breakfast from Lard Lad Donuts, lunch for four at the Leaky Cauldron, and a soft pretzel

With our Express Passes, we were able to go on 13 rides in 12 hours

We spent 12 hours in the parks and rode 13 rides because we could skip lines with our Express Passes.

We could've gotten to the parks earlier and stayed longer — there were 90 minutes until closing when we decided to leave for the day — but 12 hours was our sweet spot.

What we rode at Universal Studios Florida:

Despicable Me Minion Mayhem

Revenge of the Mummy

E.T. Adventure

Fast & Furious — Supercharged

MEN IN BLACK Alien Attack

The Simpsons Ride

Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon

Transformers: The Ride 3D

Hogwarts Express from King's Cross Station — this ride took us from Universal Studios Florida to Islands of Adventure

What we rode at Islands of Adventure:

Flight of the Hippogriff

Skull Island: Reign of Kong

The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man

The Incredible Hulk Coaster

We skipped Jurassic World VelociCoaster and Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure because these newer attractions were not included in our Express Passes and the wait time for was over two hours for each.

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey — the ride we most wanted to go on at Islands of Adventure — wasn't running during our visit. We also skipped the rides in Seuss Landing because they're geared toward younger children.

I have no regrets, but we'll do our day differently next time to save money

I try not to think about what else that $2,000 could have been spent on and instead try to remember that almost-perfect park day with my family .

Obviously, the Express Passes were the biggest expense ,but using them to skip lines is what made our day so amazing.

If I could do it over, I'd have skipped the tickets that let us go to two parks and instead just got one for Universal Studios Florida, where we spent the bulk of our day. That would've saved us about $55 per ticket, or $220 in total.

In the future, I'd consider either visiting during a less-busy time when the lines aren't so long or buying Express Passes during a cheaper time — really, any other time of the year besides the week after Christmas.

I'd also consider staying at one of Universal Orlando Resort's premier hotels, where bookings come with Express Passes. Those hotels are also close to the parks .

I've priced visits at various points in the year and all combinations of the strategies I've mentioned would cost me much less than the trip I just took.

I don't regret my trip, but I know I can go for better value next time.

Read the original article on Insider

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My 4-Day Itinerary To A Universal Orlando Resort Vacation (With Downloadable Park Itineraries!)

Haz clic para leer en Español 

Daydreaming about your next vacation is easy, but sometimes planning it can be daunting. Fear not, as I share with you all of my tips and experiences in creating the dream Universal Orlando Resort vacation.

Below you will find the play-by-play of my recent trip, as well as some downloadable itineraries to help you plan the perfect theme park and resort vacation.

Complete Four-Day Itinerary

Day one: relax at your resort & explore universal citywalk.

Whether you’re traveling to Universal Orlando from across town or from across the globe, I’m a firm believer that your first day of vacation should be spent relaxing and getting adjusted to your new home-away-from-home.

My hotel of choice is Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort ; the 50’s vibes and volcano views are straight out of a daydream. You can learn more about choosing your hotel here .

What I Did On Day One

• Sipped my morning coffee in bed while admiring the surreal view
• Grabbed breakfast at Bayliner Diner
• Relaxed by the pool and went for a swim
• I tried the Froze’, and it did not disappoint!
• Depending on which hotel you stay at, you can travel to CityWalk and the parks by water-taxi or bus.
• Enjoyed a nice meal and milkshake from The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen (pictured below)

Pro Tip: When you stay on-site, you have access to every pool on property so make sure you carve out time to pool-hop! From the Caribbean setting at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort to the underwater music rocking Hard Rock Hotel , they are ALL worth the visit.

See my starter  CABANA BAY BEACH RESORT  itinerary below to start your vacation off right.

DAY TWO: A DAY AT UNIVERSAL STUDIOS FLORIDA

It’s day two and time to jump into the theme park action of your favorite movies, make some famous friends, and squeeze in some thrills. Now that is what dreams are made of, folks.

What I Did On Day Two

• Kicked off the day with a Lard Lad Donut and some coffee
• Strolled down Hollywood Boulevard to meet some of my favorite characters
• Wandered through Diagon Alley and explored iconic spots inspired by the Harry Potter films (pictured below)
• Ate some Fish & Chips from the Leaky Cauldron
• Picked up an Interactive Wand from Ollivanders and tried my hand casting spells
• Went on a journey through Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
• Ended the day with some thrills by riding Revenge of the Mummy , Hollywood Rip Ride Rocket , and TRANSFORMERS: The Ride-3D

Pro Tip: If you’re traveling solo, there is a single rider line for Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, MEN IN BLACK Alien Attack , Revenge of the Mummy, and TRANSFORMERS: The Ride-3D.

See my starter UNIVERSAL STUDIOS FLORIDA theme park itinerary below to start your personalized journey.

DAY THREE: A DAY AT UNIVERSAL ISLANDS OF ADVENTURE

You know day three is sure to be an adventure when it consists of hungry raptors, a school of witchcraft and wizardry, and a coaster that travels at speeds up to 67 mph—just to name a few.

What I Did On Day Three

• Rode Skull Island: Reign of Kong , The Incredible Hulk Coaster , and The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man
• Grabbed a bite to eat at Mythos
• Met up with some superheroes (pictured below)
• Explored Hogsmeade and cast a few spells with my Interactive Wand
• I highly recommend taking the Hogwarts Express both ways, to and from each park, for two unique experiences
• Ended the night by fulfilling my chicken tender craving at The Burger Digs and with a Raptor Encounter in Jurassic Park (I may or may not have screamed a little)  

Pro Tip: If you stay on-site, you get Early Park Admission , which allows you to enter the parks an hour before anyone else. Take advantage of this for short waits at some of the more popular attractions!

See my starter ISLANDS OF ADVENTURE theme park itinerary below to start your amazing experience.

DAY FOUR: UNIVERSAL VOLCANO BAY

It’s day four. You may need some rest and relaxation after two theme park days, and Universal Volcano Bay water theme park is calling your name. Volcano Bay is the newest addition to Universal Orlando Resort, and describing it as paradise would be an understatement. Confession: I am completely obsessed with this place.

What I Did On Day Four

• It was especially nice staying at an on-site hotel because we were able to enter the park an hour and a half early.
• You can learn more about TapuTapu and how the virtual line experiences work here
• Virtually waited in line for Honu while eating a Waturi Fusion Ice Cream cone
• Relaxed in the Kopiko Wai Winding River
• Watched the sunset at Waturi Beach , because there is certainly no better way to cap off your trip

Pro Tip: Make sure you explore inside the volcano, Krakatau, because you may get to talk with Vol—the interactive Spirit of the Volcano!

Check out my starter VOLCANO BAY theme park itinerary below to set the tone for your relaxing and fun-filled day.

And, that’s a wrap! I hope this guide helps you plan your perfect trip and create your own adventure of a lifetime.

Any Pro Tips or itinerary must-haves? Let me know in the comments below. And while you’re vacationing with us, be sure to share your best photos with #ReadyForUniversal on Twitter and Instagram , and they could be featured on our channels.

UNIVERSAL’S CABANA BAY BEACH RESORT ITINERARY

To start your vacation off with some initial ideas…

UNIVERSAL STUDIOS FLORIDA ITINERARY

For your enjoyment…

ISLANDS OF ADVENTURE ITINERARY

Go explore!

VOLCANO BAY ITINERARY

Relax and have fun!

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Allison Schaper

Allison Schaper is an Orlando native and an avid theme park lover. You can catch her crafting up a new DIY, making videos for YouTube, or daydreaming about her next trip.

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12 comments.

Like to know how much for 5 people . For one week . For to 2 room for 5 people. Thank you

Great article and tips. I’m currently planning a 2019 trip to Cabana Bay and had no idea about some of these places. Can’t wait to check out the Toothsome Chocolate Emporium!

Toothsome desserts are amazing. Food is good but desserts are by far the best.

I have tried the shared pool concept and room keys do not open other pool gates. Tried Hard Rock and Cabanna bay while staying at Sapphire.

3 adults 1 child Aug-16-check out Aug 20th.. price place with parks

Great article, everything looks so fun! We will be going this Christmas!

I would like to know how much it would be for 2 adults and 7kids? What place would be best to stay? How much for a place to stay and park tickets? Thinking next year around end of July. Thank you!

I am ready to come back I sure need a nice vacation. How safe is it? That’s all I need to know.

Hi Joshua! Visit our website for our current Safety Guidelines: https://bit.ly/3gjThfo

What is the newest hotel in the Orlando resort

Hello Linda! You can find information about our hotels here: https://bit.ly/31kTElS

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The Family Vacation Guide

How Much Does It Cost to Go to Universal Studios as a Family?

posted by Karly Braggington on April 7, 2022 // last updated on September 11, 2023

After adding up all the things you have to pay for on a regular basis, it’s understandable that a family vacation may be low on your priority list. 

Is a trip to Universal Studios worth the hassle? How much does it cost? I’m here to break down the pros and cons and help you get the most bang for your buck. So if you are looking for a small getaway or a week-long trip, you can be sure to secure your stay the right way. 

Overall, there are three different theme parks within Universal, and each are incredible attractions filled with entertainment, including eight resort hotels. These include Volcano Bay, Island of Adventure, and CityWalk. 

So, how reasonable is a trip to Universal? Let’s dive deeper.

Simple Tips to Not Break the Bank

General ticket prices, deals and secret discounts, get the vip experience, express passes, volcano bay, islands of adventure, accommodations, dining plans, save money by saving time, best times to visit, don’t forget the extras, final takeaways.

Here are a few tips to consider before going down the rabbit hole of expenditures. 

Think thrifty! Save on extras by bringing regular-sized water bottles and small snacks. However, be sure to store them safely while adhering to park guidelines . Before booking your stay, keep an open mind and keep your eyes peeled for significant deals online. 

Planning is vital as January and September are slower, less expensive times to visit. Also, remember that the “off-season” isn’t very child-friendly with school schedules, but do what works best financially.

Hotels slightly outside the park could be better for your wallet at first glance, but don’t forget about the money-saving perks included in premium hotels. It’s a balancing act, and it’s good to plan strategically. 

Tickets are a must, and the cost depends on many factors, including age, time of year, parks visited, and extra add-on perks such as the express pass option. Children three and younger receive free admission, and kids are considered 3-9 years old. 

Prices can get complicated quickly. But here’s a simple breakdown:

• One day, one park is $109 per adult, $104 per child
• For two days, two parks are $107 per adult, $102 per child
• For three days, three parks are $91.67 per adult, $88.33 per child

For an average family of four, tickets will cost around $1000, not including tax, for two days and two parks. The good news is that there are deals and promotions to consider. For instance, you can experience five days with two days free. 

Did you know that you can save on bundles and hotels if you are a Florida resident? Residents can save up to $30-$40 per day on tickets. 

Also, if you are an active military family or a family member is retired from the military, you can receive an added discount when you provide identification upon entry. You can choose the two or three park options with the military discount and receive six tickets total. 

For the extensive traveller, or if you plan to visit a couple of times a year more, you can invest in the annual pass, which starts at $350 but could be worth the price.

Purchasing tickets online can also save around twenty dollars. 

If you are driving to the destination or renting a vehicle, another way you can save is to check out Avis and Budget. You can save 25%, courtesy of the resort, using a discount code by using thud company. Also, keep in mind parking is around $26-36 dollars per day, which can quickly add to your vacation total.

Don’t forget to take advantage of being a AAA member. You can save 10-15% on various restaurant and store purchases.

Discounts will be your friend for families wanting to explore the various theme parks. 

As ironic as it may sound, the longer your trip is, the more money you save per day.

This feature can be beneficial for first-time visitors.

Let experts guide you through Universal Studios, Island of Adventure, or both. Keep in mind that the one park option provides a five-hour tour, being first in line at a minimum of eight prominent attractions. 

The two park selections include a tour of seven hours, with the ability to be in front of ten attractions. 

Both experiences offer the following exclusives:

• Special entrance and reserved seating
• Free valet parking
• Continental breakfast and lunch
• Universal Express Unlimited Pass 
• Lanyard 
• Select discounts

Be whisked away in a group setting, or you can choose a more private VIP experience, creating your schedule. 

The main difference is that the group VIP selection allows breakfast and lunch at a buffet or quick-service option. But the private VIP experience allows for all meals, including dinner at a full-service restaurant.

Again, while it comes with a cost, becoming a VIP could be something to think about, especially if you plan to get a pass.

All passes ultimately save on other expenses, such as hotels, purchases, and food items.

You can buy Express Passes before or during your trip. But if you purchase them online, you could save 20% total. There are two options, the basic Express Pass or the Express Pass Unlimited. The basic lets you in the express lane, but there is a catch. You can only use it once per ride. 

However, Express Pass Unlimited has no limitations, which is handy if you only spend a day or two at the park and are in a time crunch. 

If you stay at a premier hotel, you will automatically receive the Unlimited Express Pass. But for the rest of us, it comes with a cost. Unlike tickets, the price remains the same per person regardless of age. 

Basic Express Pass starts at $79.99 each

Unlimited Express Pass starts at $109.99 each

There’s also an express pass strictly for Volcano Bay, at $19.99 each.

If you still want a getaway but want another option in the summer heat, you may consider Universal’s water park Volcano Bay .

Enjoy a wave pool, winding river, beach, and water coasters. Whether you are looking to chill or thrill, there’s something for everyone. There are also nine different food and drink options.

Volcano Bay can even serve as a stand-alone trip. So while it’s not as expensive, it does start around the $80 price point.

However, you can check online for current deals and savings.

One noticeable downside is that towels are $6 to rent, but you are welcome to bring your own. Every little bit to save is a win. 

From Jurassic Park, Transformers, and Spider-Man, to Harry Potter, this is a popular must-see within Universal Studios. 

The Islands of Adventure theme park is jam-packed with shows, coasters, and attractions. The Islands of Adventure has been easily a fan favourite over recent years. Therefore, a pass for this particular park could be most beneficial. 

Current attractions include Dark Arts and Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle, Hogwarts Express, and The Incredible Hulk Coaster, to name a few. 

Tickets start around a hundred dollars, depending on how many parks you choose in your initial package. 

CityWalk is the centre of food, drinks, shopping, and entertainment for all ages. The best part is, there’s no additional entrance cost. It’s a relaxing way to sneak off and play mini-golf or visit the movie theatre. 

If travelling by car, there is a parking fee:

• Regular parking: $27
• Prime parking: $50
• Prime upgrade: $23

There is a separate area for picking up and dropping off guests to avoid these fees by getting a ride elsewhere or taxi.

There are three tiers to choose from when deciding on a hotel: premier, preferred, and value.

Hotels at the park typically range from $100-$300 a night but come with advantages that save time and money.

By choosing a hotel on park grounds, you will gain access to:

• Early admission to theme parks one hour before opening
• Multiple free means of free transportation
• Priority restaurant seating
• Access to express lines 
• Complimentary merchandise sent to your hotel door; no need to carry extra bags all-day

Below are the premier hotel options for a top-notch stay, starting at $200-$300 a night:

• Hard Rock Hotel
• Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
• Loews Royal Pacific Resort

The preferred option and middle-tier include the Sapphire Falls Resort, which starts at $181 a night. This eye-catching paradise is next to Volcano Bay.

Highlights include:

• Multiple restaurants
• Free transportation, including water taxis, makes every park accessible. 
• Kid-themed bedrooms
• Game room 
• Pool complete with waterslide. 

If you are looking for a more affordable option, these two below are comparable. Both start from $91 to $136 per night before taxes:

• Dockside Inn and Suites
• Surfside Inn and Suites

Lastly, you may consider staying in an Airbnb rental or slightly out of the area at a hotel.

It can be more challenging with a rental, as several hotels around the area are around or under $100 per night plus provide significant advantages.

These hotels often include complimentary breakfast, free shuttle service, accessible shopping, food options, and less worry over parking fees.

For instance, the Holiday Inn & Suites seems like a great value option for the area, just a couple of miles from the Studios. 

This kid-friendly option includes two swimming pools, a gift shop, restaurant, bar, game room, and fitness centre. 

Other hotels to consider near Universal include Best Western and La Quinta Inn.

Dining Options

With over a hundred dining options, there’s something for everyone. As a result, there’s a lot to unpack, from hotel dining to cheaper grab-and-go options.

Let’s start with family-friendly dining at premier hotels, which could be an accessible option if you already stay here.

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel includes: Mama Della’s Ristorante and Splendido Bar & Grill.

Loews Royal Pacific Resort includes Islands Dining Room and Jake’s American Bar.

Restaurants to choose from outside of hotel dining:

• The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen
• Three Broomsticks 
• Marvel Character Dinner
• Confisco Grille

Five fast options:

• The Frying Dutchman
• Richter’s Burger Co.
• KidZone Pizza Company 
• Leaky Cauldron 
• Mel’s Drive-In

For the average small family, prepare to spend daily around $50-$60 bucks per person.

There are also multiple ice cream shops and stops for beverages and treats:

• Cathy’s Ice Cream
• Starbucks 
• Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour
• The Fountain of Fair Fortune

There are two options for prepaid dining plans listed below, with amounts per person without tax.

The quick-service dining plan includes one small meal, snack, and beverage every day:

• Adults $25.99
• Children $17.99

The full-service dining plan includes one large meal, one quick meal, one snack, and one beverage daily:

•  Adults $34.99 
•  Children $26.99

If you are unsure about purchasing before the trip, you can always change your mind and add the plan throughout your stay.

However, it may be more affordable to forego this option. You may not eat as much as you think during the busy days.

Considering how expensive and large portion sizes can be, a simple solution could be to split two entrees. For example, if you have a family of four, perhaps order two dinner-sized meals instead.

You can always take it day by day. 

You can save on time and potentially unwanted merchandise by storing belongings in a locker for a small price of ten dollars a day. 

A safe locker can keep sweatshirts, change of clothes, sunscreen, bags, snacks, water bottles, and anything you want to take with you while freeing up your arms. 

Did you know that there’s a Universal Resort app you can download on your phone? Having a virtual map with you at all times can come in handy. Using technology can maximize your experience and productivity and save you money. 

You can compare prices, buy tickets, check wait times, browse menus, and order food with the app. In addition, reservations can be available at your fingertips.

Ideally, the perfect length of time is two to three days to ensure you get what you want without feeling overwhelmed. 

Before time flies, plan out details, timeline, budget, and a solid estimate on extra spending money left over for merchandise. 

Being mindful will make unwanted splurges less tempting.

You will fit right in if you crave action-packed coasters and love the movies and themes.

Currently, Universal is expanding and will open a new theme park called Epic Universe. Although it’s still in the early stages, it is estimated to open in 2025. 

So far, the only attraction confirmed is Super Nintendo World, among new hotels. But it will be the largest, most innovative park yet, attracting even more people.

Universal is open all year long, but there are peak times and lulls. 

The beginning of the year, spring break, and late summer to early fall are generally the best times to visit.

There is an online calendar predicting the crowd forecast. The crowd calendar will notify you of events occurring and updated hours, helping you make informed decisions. 

Generally, weekdays are slower, but it also depends on the year. Summer months are prime, especially when kids are out of school. On the other hand, September is an excellent option weather-wise and for your wallet. But, of course, it depends on preference, income, deals, and what you plan on doing on your trip.

Souvenirs can be a must, but an average adult t-shirt can cost $24-25. An autograph book is estimated to cost around $8. And when we get into speciality gifts such as a Harry Potter wand and robe, it can cost hundreds.

Perhaps the My Universal Photos Package would be a better choice if you’d rather keep photos. The photo package starts at $69 and includes a one or three-day package of digital theme park downloads, a lanyard, 4×6, and 5×7 printed photos.

The Volcano Bay Photos Package includes professional ride pics and digital downloads that start at a low cost of $39.

Setting aside at least $2000 minimum for a future or upcoming trip would be ideal. However, it could easily be double that amount for all the bells and whistles. The final count depends on many factors, including the size of your family.

Ultimately, where do you want to stay? What food choices are best for your family? Are you going to want souvenirs and merchandise? The bottom line is that you can never save up too much money for an adventure like this one, and things are constantly changing. 

Think ahead, and the pros are definitely in the discounts. The most significant factor is what theme parks and rides are a must for you and your loved ones? Start there, then outweigh the rest.

Also, take into consideration if you are planning to fly or drive. Driving means extra parking costs, but it also may be way less expensive than hundreds of dollars on plane tickets. 

Again there are a lot of necessities, but you can easily cut out extra costs if needed. However, you may be surprised at how affordable it can be with careful planning and budgeting.

Check out these other articles about vacationing in Florida:

• 17 Of The Best Family Vacations In Florida That Aren’t Disney
• How Much Are Harry Potter Wands At Universal Studios Orlando?
• 6 Of The Best Spots For Breakfast At Universal Studios Orlando
• Where Is The Purple Wall At Walt Disney World & Everything You Need To Know About It
• Disney Waterparks: Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach?
• 80 Fun Facts About Walt Disney World
• Best Disney Resorts (With Shuttle Bus!)

More about our TFVG Author

Karly Braggington

Karly is a The Family Vacation Guide guest travel contributor.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I change or modify my reservation?

How Much Is It To Visit Universal Studios Orlando?

This article is your guide to the question how much does it cost to go to Universal Studios Orlando!   We typically recommend budgeting about $300 per person for one day for Universal Orlando tickets and food or around $4,550 for a family of four planning to stay for four days!

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!

SPECIAL NOTE: If you need help picking the best time to visit Universal Orlando for your next vacation be sure to check out our Universal crowd calendar!

 Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar

How Much Does it Cost to go to Universal Studios in Florida?

From our experience helping our clients a family of four can expect to budget around $4,550+ for a four-day stay , encompassing park tickets to Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and even Volcano Bay if you choose, as well as hotel accommodations, dining, souvenirs, and various expenses like travel and parking. This guide offers a starting point for budgeting, with the understanding that actual expenses can fluctuate based on your travel dates, choice of on-site or off-site hotel, dining preferences, and the types of Universal Orlando souvenirs you decide to take home. You will also see that these numbers do not include any deals or promotions that Universal might be running throughout the year. It’s also important to note that these numbers could change when Universal opens it’s brand new park EPIC Universe which will include a new Harry Potter section and the very popular Super Nintendo World.

Budgeting for tickets

A crucial expense is park admission. Universal Orlando Resort offers tickets to Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay. For a family wanting to explore both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, you’ll need park-to-park tickets to enjoy the flexibility of visiting multiple parks in a single day. A 4-day, park-to-park ticket starts at about $285 per adult and $275 per child , with prices subject to change based on seasonality.

Budgeting for Hotel Accommodations

The Universal Orlando hotels start at $99 and can go up to as high as $500 for a Premier hotel. If you’re on a budget, we would recommend staying at a Value Resort like one of the Endless Summer hotels to keep costs down. There are also Prime Value family-friendly options like Cabana Bay Beach Resort, which is always a win for big families who want to visit Volcano Bay.

• Endless Summer (Dockside and Surfside) – Starting at $99 /night

Prime Value:

• Universal Adventura – Starting at $145 /night
• Cabana Bay Beach Resort – Starting at $145 /night
• Loews Sapphire Falls Resort – Starting at $222 /night

Premier (Free Express Pass Included) hotels:

• Loews Royal Pacific Resort – Starting at $337 /night
• Hard Rock Hotel – $386 /night
• Loews Portofino Bay – $393 /night

Budgeting for Food and Dining

Universal Orlando Resort hosts a variety of dining options , from quick service to full-service restaurants across its theme parks and CityWalk. We recommend budgeting approximately $20-$40 per person per meal for a mix of dining experiences. Remember to include snacks and drinks in your budget, with prices varying widely based on preferences. However, you can also take advantage and save using the Universal refillable cup!

Merchandise and Souvenirs

From themed apparel to collectibles, merchandise expenses can vary. Budget $100 to $300 for souvenirs to ensure you can bring home a piece of the magic.

Travel and Miscellaneous

The cost of travel to Orlando, whether by plane, train, or car, and any associated rental car or parking fees should be considered. Additionally, plan for miscellaneous expenses such as locker rentals or Universal Orlando photo packages.

Average Cost for Universal Studios Orlando Four-Day Vacation

As you will see below, the average cost for a trip to Universal Studios for a family of four is around $4,554.00. This would allow the family to visit all three of the Universal Orlando theme parks. It also includes the Universal Orlando park-to-park ticket to ride the Hogwarts Express, as well as four-night hotel accommodations at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort, which is right in the middle of all of the action. As you can imagine, this budget might be different based on your own personal preferences and needs; however, we do believe it’s a great starting point. It’s also important to note that this budget does not include any discounted Halloween Horror Nights tickets, which is the very popular separate ticketed Halloween event in the parks, which runs from the end of August through October.

• Park Tickets: $420 (adult) + $407 (child) x 2 = $1,654.00 (based on average three park park-to-park ticket prices)
• Accommodations: $225 x 4 nights = $900 (Moderate Stay at Cabana Bay Beach Resort)
• Food and Dining: $300 x 4 days = $1,200 (mix of quick-service and sit-down dining)
• Merchandise: $300 (a few souvenirs per person)
• Travel and Miscellaneous: Budget at least $500+, varying greatly based on mode of transportation and miscellaneous expenses.

Total Estimated Budget: $4,554+ (excluding major travel costs to Orlando) for a family of 4.

SPECIAL PROMOTION:  As a way to help all members of our Universal Orlando Community out as much as possible, we will be running a promotion on all new Universal vacation packages booked through our small business! For a limited time, we will be giving our clients an extra $75.00 off their next Universal Orlando vacation package, which can be combined with any promotion that Universal is also running. Email [email protected] and let him know you would like to take advantage of this deal!

Related page: Best Deals and Promotions on Universal Orlando Hotel Packages 

How Much Are Tickets to Universal Studios 2024?

The average cost of a one-day, one-park ticket at Universal Studios Orlando currently stands at $134 for adults and $129 for kids. This is a critical factor in understanding the overall Universal Studios Orlando cost. It’s worth noting that Universal Orlando tickets are da te-based, meaning the specific date or start date you choose will affect the Universal Studios costs you incur.

Fortunately, Universal Orlando excels in offering pricing information well in advance, aiding in the planning process. This allows you to start exploring the Universal Studios Florida cost and Universal Studios tickets cost up to a year ahead of time. By having this foresight, you can effectively plan and budget for your visit, ensuring that your Universal Orlando experience remains both enjoyable and financially manageable.

Guests can also bundle their Universal Orlando tickets with an on-site Universal Orlando hotel, which starts at less than $99 per night for the cheapest prices possible.

How much are Universal Studios tickets in 2024?

For one adult, your ticket will cost:

• 1 park, 1 day: $109-159
• 2 parks, 1 day: $164-214
• 2 parks, 2 days: $111-176 per day

For one child, your ticket will cost:

• 1 park, 1 day: $104-154
• 2 parks, 1 day: $159-209
• 2 parks, 2 days: $110-171 per day

A family of 4, your tickets will cost:

• 1 park, 1 day: $518-626
• 2 parks, 1 day: $738-846
• 2 parks, 2 days: $1099 – 1383

Below, we’ll explain your options so you can figure out the Universal Orlando admission price that will apply during your vacation.

Related Page: The Cheapest Universal Orlando Ticket Prices

How Much Does The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Cost?

The estimated cost of a visit to Harry Potter World is approximately $1,260 for four adults with 2-park-to-park tickets. This allows for a full day of exploration in Hogsmeade and another day in Diagon Alley. While this may be slightly higher compared to other online budgets, it includes the park-to-park option at an additional $60 per person.

This is necessary to ride the iconic Hogwarts Express, an absolute must-do for any Harry Potter fan. On the other hand, families planning a budget-friendly trip to Harry Potter World may only require a two-night hotel stay instead of the typical three or four nights for a comprehensive visit to Universal Orlando. We do have an entire guide budgeting out a trip to the Wizarding World, which you can read right here !

Related post:   Complete Guide to Butterbeer at Universal Studios Parks

Cost of Universal Orlando FAQ

Q: How much is it to go to Universal Studios Orlando?

A: We typically recommend budgeting about $300 per person for one day for Universal Orlando tickets and food or around $4,550 for a family of four planning to stay for four days!

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 break down 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

Ticket Subtotal: $325.45

Ticket Price Including Tax:

* Your magic rewards program points are automatically calculated into all theme park ticket prices!

Michael Belmont

Michael Belmont is the owner at Theparkprodigy.com, an authorized Disney and Universal travel agent. 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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Save time and money on your next Walt Disney World vacation with The Park Prodigy. With our discounted Walt Disney World theme park tickets guests can choose from the following parks!

• Magic Kingdom Park
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Save up to three hours at Universal Orlando with free vacation planning tools and added benefits. With our Universal tickets guests can choose from the following parks!

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First Time at Universal Orlando? Here’s Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

Feeling overwhelmed use this first-timer's guide to learn where to stay, what to do, and how to do it at universal orlando resort..

Universal Orlando Resort has long been one of the most popular family vacation spots in the country. Comprised of two theme parks ( Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure ), one water park ( Volcano Bay ), a dining and shopping district ( Universal CityWalk ), and eight hotels , there’s more enough at Universal to keep any family entertained for days. Universal’s third Orlando theme park, Epic Universe, is set to open in 2025. 

Whether your family is all-in on Harry Potter or huge fans of the Jurassic Park movies, there’s always something exciting happening at Universal Orlando. But with so much going on, where do you even begin? It can feel like a lot for first-timers, but I’m here to walk you through everything you need to know about planning a Universal Orlando Resort vacation.

ORLANDO MAGIC: The Ultimate Guide to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando  

First-Timer’s Guide to Universal Orlando Resort

This guide will introduce you to Universal’s eight hotels, provide an overview of the different parks, and offer practical tips for making the most of your Florida family vacation . So, let’s get started!

Jump to a Section:

• Universal Orlando Resort Hotels
• Universal Studios Florida
• Islands of Adventure
• Volcano Bay Water Park
• Universal CityWalk

Universal Orlando Resort Planning Tips

Where to stay at universal orlando resort.

Central Florida is filled with hotels, but if you want to stay just minutes from the Universal theme parks then you’ll need to base yourself at one of Universal’s eight hotels. Each hotel has something unique to offer, from dining options to fun pool areas and even special theme park perks. They’re also divided into four different budget tiers: Value, Prime Value, Preferred, and Premier. All of Universal’s resort hotels offer complimentary transportation to the parks.

READ OUR GUIDE: The Best Universal Studios Orlando Hotels for Every Age Group and Interest  

No matter which Universal Orlando Resort hotel you choose, you will have early access to select rides in select theme parks each morning. Early park admission begins up to one hour prior to park opening and is included with your hotel stay at no additional cost (but regular theme park admission is required). Here’s a look at which hotels belong to which tiers.

Universal’s Value hotels offer the most affordable room rates among all of the different accommodations options within Universal Orlando Resort. For families, these hotels also offer two-bedroom suites. However, Value hotels are farthest away from the theme parks. The two hotels in this budget category are:

• Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites 
• Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites

Prime Value

Universal’s Prime Value hotels are slightly more expensive than Value hotels but offer additional perks, including close proximity to the theme parks and a separate security entrance to Universal’s Volcano Bay water park. The two Prime Value hotels are:

• Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort
• Universal’s Aventura Hotel

There’re only one hotel in the Preferred category. Its biggest draw is complimentary water taxi transportation to the Universal theme parks as well as a walking path to Volcano Bay.

• Loews Sapphire Falls Resort

The most upscale Universal Orlando hotels belong to the Premier category. Special perks include complimentary Universal Express Unlimited passes, allowing you to skip the regular line at most Universal Orlando Resort rides and attractions. I’ll talk more about Universal Express later in this guide, but suffice to say that if you’re considering purchasing these passes then staying at a Premier hotel is likely to be the most cost effective way to get them, especially for families. The three hotels in this budget category are:

• Loews Royal Pacific Resort
• Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
• Universal’s Hard Rock Hotel

If you choose not to stay at a Universal Orlando Resort hotel, you can still have easy access to most of the resort property once you arrive, but you will not get the added perks mentioned above. Check out our helpful list of Orlando hotels with swimming pools, water slides, and lazy rivers for additional hotel suggestions.

Theme Parks at Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Orlando Resort has two theme parks, Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. It also has a water park, Volcano Bay, and a shopping and dining district called CityWalk. The shopping district connects Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure to each other, so you can easily pass from one park to the other without leaving the resort. The Hogwarts Express attraction also allows you to move between Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure if you have a Park-to-Park ticket; you can buy passes to just one park or Park-to-Park passes that allow you to move between the Universal theme parks in the same day.

BONUS TIME: How to Get Extra Time at Universal Beyond the Regular Theme Park Hours  

The great thing about Universal Orlando is how close everything within the resort is to each other. You are never more than a 20-minute walk to most areas at the resort (and often quite a bit closer), so jumping from park to park or back to your hotel is a breeze. Keep that in mind when planning your park days since you can easily visit both theme parks should you opt for a Park-to-Park ticket. 

What to Know about Universal Studios Florida

Universal Studios Florida was the first Universal theme park to open in Orlando. It was originally conceived as a mirror its sister theme park in California , but by the time it opened in 1990 it had pivoted to a more immersive theme park design.

Universal Studios Florida is home to classic attractions like E.T. Adventure, Revenge of the Mummy, and Men in Black: Alien Attack. It’s also home to the Diagon Alley area of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Minion Land on Illumination Avenue, among other themed areas.

Major Attractions at Universal Studios Florida

• Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
• E.T. Adventure
• Fast & Furious: Supercharged
• Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
• Hogwarts Express (also serves as transportation to and from Islands of Adventure)
• Hollywood Rip Ride Rocket
• Men In Black: Alien Attack
• Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon
• Revenge of the Mummy
• The Simpsons Ride
• Transformers: The Ride 3D
• Villain-Con Minion Blast

Dining at Universal Studios Florida

There are lots of places to grab a bite to eat around Universal Studios Florida. Seafood fans may want to check out Lombard’s Seafood Grille . If you want traditional Irish pub fare, head to Finnegan’s Bar and Grill . For a quicker bite to eat, Minion Cafe serves unique dishes that you don’t tend to see at most counter-service theme park burger joints. Options include Carl’s Crispy Cauliflower, Chicken Stuart’s Szechuan Surprise, and El Macho’s Salsa y Salsa Ropa Vieja, just to name a few.

Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Florida

One of the biggest draws each year to Universal Studios Florida is Halloween Horror Nights . The annual fall event takes place nightly between early September and late October and features multiple scare zones and haunted houses based on popular characters and franchises in the thriller, horror, and science fiction genres. This separate-admission event is very popular and highly attended each year, but be warned: It’s not for the faint of heart and is best suited to guests above the age of 13.

What to Know about Islands of Adventure

Universal’s Islands of Adventure opened in 1999 and is home to six distinct lands featuring some of the most popular characters and franchises under the Universal umbrella. Islands of Adventure is where the flagship area of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter can be found, with the iconic Hogwarts castle beckoning guests as they enter the wizarding village of Hogsmeade.

INSIDER SECRETS: 7 Things You Didn’t Know You Could Do At Universal Orlando Resort   

Islands of Adventure is also home to the Jurassic Park area where the popular high-speed thrill ride VelociCoaster is located. In fact, many of Orlando’s most popular rides are at Islands of Adventure, so if you’re into roller coasters and highly immersive attractions, you’ll feel right at home there. Younger kids can also find plenty to do at Islands of Adventure, with family-friendly lands that include Toon Lagoon and Seuss Landing. And Marvel fans will find an entire area dedicated to comic book heroes like Spider-Man and the Hulk.

Major attractions at Islands of Adventure

• Doctor Doom’s Fearfall
• Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls
• Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
• Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
• Hogwarts Express (also serves as transportation to and from Universal Studios Florida)
• Jurassic Park River Adventure
• Popeye and Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges
• Pteranodon Flyers
• Skull Island: Reign of Kong
• The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man
• The Cat in the Hat
• The Incredible Hulk Coaster
• VelociCoaster

Dining at Islands of Adventure

Islands of Adventure is home to Mythos Restaurant , an award-winning dining location with a menu that includes a fusion of Mediterranean, Asian, and American fare found in The Lost Continent area of the park.

For a quick bite of Italian, Asian, and Greek cuisine or a refreshing beverage, you can also head to Confisco Grille . Beyond these options, Islands of Adventure has several counter-service dining options.

What to Know about Universal’s Volcano Bay Water Theme Park

Volcano Bay is Universal’s tropical island-themed water park that opened in 2017. Don’t let any preconceived notions of water parks deter you: Volcano Bay is a highly themed and fully entertaining must-do experience when visiting Universal Orlando Resort, especially on hot and sunny days.

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Kids will enjoy the array of water-themed attractions at Volcano Bay, which include the Krakatau Aqua Coaster and the Kala and Tai Nui Serpentine Body Slides . For a more leisurely day at Volcano Bay, check out the Kopiko Wai Winding River or simply lounge in one of the park’s many beach chairs. Private two-story cabanas are also available for rent.

Upon entry, guests at Volcano Bay are given wearable water-proof wristbands called TapuTapu . These bands can be used as a payment method throughout the water park as well as a virtual queue device that holds your place in line for most attractions.

Major attractions at Volcano Bay

• Honu of the Honu ika Moana
• Ika Moana of the Honu ika Moana
• Kala and Tai Nui Serpentine Body Slides
• Ko’okiri Body Plunge
• Kopiko Wai Winding River
• Krakatau Aqua Coaster
• Maku of the Maku Puihi Round Raft Rides
• Ohno of Ohyah and Ohno Drop Slides
• Puihi of the Maku Puihi Round Raft Rides
• Punga Racers
• Raki of Taniwha Tubes
• TeAwa The Fearless River
• Tonga of Taniwha Tubes

Dining at Volcano Bay

Dining options are plentiful, with counter-service locations offering everything from burgers to poke bowls and walk-up bars for adults serving piña coladas and other tropical drinks.

What to Know about Universal CityWalk

When you’re looking for a break from the parks or you want to experience a bit of nightlife at Universal, CityWalk is just steps away. The shopping and dining district known as CityWalk opened in 1999 alongside Islands of Adventure as part of a significant expansion to Universal Orlando Resort, turning the resort from a one-day excursion to a full-fledged vacation destination. 

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CityWalk requires no park admission to visit, making it a great spot for vacationers and locals alike who want to grab a bite to eat at one of its many restaurants. And, because CityWalk is open late (closing most nights at 12:00 a.m. or 1:00 a.m.), it’s also a great place to close out your long day in the theme parks.

While it’s primarily a dining and shopping area, CityWalk is also home to a fun attraction called Universal’s Great Movie Escape . This escape room experience offers two cinematic adventures, one inspired by Jurassic World and the other by  Back to the Future .

Top Dining Options at Universal CityWalk

• Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food
• Bob Marley—A Tribute to Freedom
• The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar
• Hard Rock Cafe
• Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville
• NBC Sports Grill and Brew
• Pat O’Briens
• Toothsome Chocolate Emporium and Savory Feast Kitchen
• VIVO Italian Kitchen

A lot goes into planning a theme park vacation, including when to go, which parks and rides to prioritize, and whether it makes sense to spring for expensive extras like skip-the-line passes and VIP experiences. Here’s what you need to know when making those important decisions.

When is the best time of year to visit Universal Orlando Resort?

Weather is always a factor to consider when visiting Central Florida. Summer can be extremely hot and there’s often a chance for rain and thunderstorms. Summer is also Universal’s busiest season with families out of school. 

Fall is another very buy time at Universal with the fan-favorite Halloween Horror Nights generally running from early September to early November. This event only takes place in the evenings, however, so if you’re traveling with little ones you should be able to dodge the spookiest sights and sounds as long as you steer clear of Universal Studios Florida during event hours. If you love all things scary and horror, though, September and October are two months to consider visiting. In late winter and early spring, Universal Orlando Resort celebrates Mardi Gras in a big way with live entertainment, limited-time food items, and a nighttime parade on select evenings.

The holiday season at Universal Orlando is a popular time as well. Highlights include Universal’s Holiday Parade Featuring Macy’s at Universal Studios Florida and Grinchmas at Islands of Adventure. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter celebrates Christmastime with a nighttime holiday show called The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle . All of Universal Orlando’s holiday offerings are included with regular park admission, with no separate-ticket events to factor into your vacation budget.

I recommend keeping a close watch on Universal Orlando Resort’s website and email promotions for hotel deals and other ways to save. Past offers have included discounts on hotel rooms as well as theme park ticket sales, including a recent “buy two days, get three days free” promotion. 

How many days do you need at Universal Orlando?

To see and do everything that makes Universal Orlando Resort special, you will want to plan at least two full days at the parks. Three days would be even better. Universal sells One Park and Park-to-Park tickets. A one-park per day ticket will limit you to just one park each day, which is cost effective if you know you will only want to visit one park each day.

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Because everything at Universal Orlando is within walking distance, however, it’s relatively easy to fit multiple parks in one day. Park-to-Park tickets give you access to both theme parks and Volcano Bay on the same day. This is a good option if you want to bounce around between parks at different times of day or if you’re pressed for time on your visit. With a Park-to-Park ticket, you will also be able to ride the Hogwarts Express between Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure (a must-do experience for die-hard Harry Potter fans).

If you live close to Orlando or you plan on visiting multiple times throughout the year, an Annual Pass is a good option to consider. Universal offers several different Annual Pass tiers to choose from with varying blackout dates and price points. Universal’s Annual Passholders are also eligible for Passholder Appreciation Days , special hotel discounts, and other perks.

What is an Express Pass?

Express Pass is Universal’s skip-the-line pass designed to give you shorter wait times for most rides and attractions in Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. Skipping the regular standby lines can be a huge time saver if you want to experience all of the rides during your stay, especially if you’re only visiting for a day or two. With a Universal Express Pass, hour-long standby waits can be as short as just five or 10 minutes.

There are two types of Express Passes : Universal Express, which works on each participating ride once per day, and Universal Express Unlimited, which allows you to skip the regular line on each participating ride as many times per day as you would like. Once you have Express Pass, you simply show up to the ride of your choice and enter the designated Express Pas queue, with no reservations or return times necessary. Express Passes are add-ons to your park ticket; they’re not valid for entry on their own.

Express Pass is also not an insignificant cost. The standard Universal Express (valid at Universal Studios Florida or Islands of Adventure) starts at $89.99 for one park per person per day; Universal Express Unlimited starts at $99.99 for one park per person per day; you can also purchase Express Passes for both parks in the same day.

The cost can (and does) increase quite a bit during the park’s busier seasons, with prices as high as $349.99 per guest per day for the standard Universal Express and $379.99 per guest daily for Universal Express Unlimited. Also note that these prices do not include tax.

Express Passes at Volcano Bay function the same way (standard or unlimited) but are significantly less expensive, with prices ranging from $19.99 (standard) to $39.99 (unlimited).

Do you need an Express Pass?

If you can swing the cost, an Express Pass can be an invaluable tool in accomplishing everything on your to-do list with ease, especially if you only have a day or two at the parks or you’re traveling with kids who absolutely hate waiting in line.

Fortunately, you can bring the cost of an Express Pass down quite a bit by staying at one of Universal’s Premier hotels ( Loews Royal Pacific Resort , Loews Portofino Bay Hotel , or Universal’s Hard Rock Hotel ). Booking a stay at one of these hotels gets you and your family complimentary Express Unlimited passes at Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure for the length of your stay. For a family of four, staying at a Premier hotel is often less expensive than the cost of a lower-tier hotel plus Express Passes.

Express Passes can be purchased on Universal’s website when you buy your park tickets. They are also available at guest kiosks throughout the resort (pending same-day availability) or via Universal Orlando’s app (also pending availability). If you opt not to purchase an Express Pass, the easiest way to avoid long lines on the most popular rides is to take advantage of early park admission and get to the parks before the regular crowds arrive.

There’s also an unadvertised Express Pass option that’s sometimes available after 4:00 p.m. This secret Express Pass can only be purchased in-person (not online or via the app) and functions just like a regular Express Pass, but is only good from 4:00 p.m. to closing. It costs significantly less than a full-day Express Pass and is a great option if you’re planning to stay until closing and still need to knock a bunch of popular rides off your to-do list.

What about Universal’s VIP Experience? 

For the ultimate VIP treatment, Universal Orlando Resort offers a VIP Experience you can book as an add-on to your theme park admission. You can reserve a one-park or two-park VIP experience, depending on what ticket type you have, and your party will be personally escorted by a Universal VIP guide throughout the day.

The biggest draw to the VIP Experience is the ability to ride all of the attractions without waiting in line, but you also get backstage access and fun tidbits of information from your guide as well. Guests who book the VIP Experience can also enjoy complimentary continental breakfast and lunch. All-day Private VIP Experience tours include all of the benefits listed above, plus a complimentary full-service dinner as well as a My Universal Photos Three-Day Photo Package.

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Universal Orlando Resort Hopping Guide

Universal is known for theme parks full of wizards, dinosaurs, superheroes, and aliens, but they also have a great selection of hotels full of places to explore and unique activities in impressively themed environments. So in the spirit of the popular Walt Disney World pastime of “resort hopping” here is our guide to resort hopping at Universal Orlando – from directions between the hotels to attractions worth your time at each hotel.

What is Resort Hopping?

Resort hopping is visiting one or more hotels at Univeral Orlando to experience the hotel ambiance, amenities, drinks, and food. Resort hopping is an easy and great way to sample the Universal hotels, think of it as a try-before-you-buy option. Universal resort hopping is more convenient and relaxing than at Disney and Universal hotel guests can pool hop (except for guests at Endless Summer).

The Resort Hopping Path

Ok, it’s time to chart a path for our journey. Universal Orlando has nine separate hotels as of 2024 spread over three distinct resort groups, with another opening in 2025:

• North Main Campus Hotels – Hard Rock Hotel and Portofino Bay, accessed by walking, boat, bus, or ride share off Universal Blvd and located east of Universal Studios Florida.
• South Main Campus Hotels – Cabana Bay, Aventura, Sapphire Falls, and Royal Pacific hotels. These hotels are located off Hollywood and Adventure Way and are south of the Islands of Adventure theme park. Accessible by walking, bus, or ride share but only Sapphire Falls and Royal Pacific have boat access (though Aventura and Cabana Bay guests can walk to and use either boat landing). Cabana Bay is connected to the other hotels by a pedestrian bridge at the northeastern corner of the parking lot.
• Endless Summer Hotels – Located off Universal Blvd south of USF and IOA, Surfside & Dockside are only accessible by bus or ride share. Jumping between Surfside and Dockside is easier said than done – there is one crosswalk across Universal Blvd near the Dockside lobby otherwise you’ll have to transfer buses at CityWalk.
• Opening 2025 Epic Universe Hotels – Located 20 minutes south of the North Universal Orlando campus, the southern Epic Universe campus has three hotels: Stella Luna, Terra Nova, and Grand Helios.

We suggest touring the hotels in groups – for example, see all the south main campus hotels at once before moving to the north main campus hotels. CityWalk acts as a hub for all the hotels, Endless Summer is accessed by bus through CityWalk and all boats drop off at the CityWalk dock, so as you plan your path remember you will have to return to CityWalk. Finally, make use of Universal Orlando boats and buses to travel between hotels.

For example, this fall I’m going to resort hop with friends one afternoon. We are staying at Endless Summer Dockside, so we will use the bus and travel to CityWalk and transfer to the Cabana Bay bus. We will tour Cabana Bay, take the bridge to Aventura, walk over to Sapphire Falls, explore Royal Pacific, and then take the boat to CityWalk. After a break, we’ll boat to Portofino, walk to Hard Rock, and finally walk back to the CityWalk to end the tour. This plan is easy to modify – if one are staying at Cabana Bay you could do the same plan but take the bus to Endless Summer whenever you pass through CityWalk.

Our Favorite Hotel Stops

Universal’s hotels are full resorts with on-site dining, a pool, an arcade, a gift shop, a fitness center, and Starbucks – but you really want to try the unique things at the resorts. Below are some of our suggestions for unique attractions at the resorts.

Endless Summer Surfside & Dockside are sister hotels located south of the main Universal Orlando property and is connected to CityWalk by an 8-minute bus ride. Universal’s value hotels are designed and priced to compete with the two-star hotels and motels on I-Drive. Both hotels have a gift shop, quick service dining location, and bar – Dockside is inside while the Surfside bar is attached to the pool.

Cabana Bay is a popular midcentury modern hotel for guests who love resort amenities at a reasonable price and there are lots of things for a resort hopping guest to check out. The resort features two pool areas, including one with a lazy river, two pool bars, a BOWLING ALLEY, a milkshake bar, and a hotel lobby bar that feels out of your grandfather’s cabinet. It is magical to just vibe and chill at Cabana Bay. Aventura is a sleek, modern resort with one cool trick – a 17th-floor bar! Bar 17 provides spectacular views of Volcano Bay and Islands of Adventure with delicious cocktails and small plates. Take the elevator up to Bar 17 even if you don’t want to snack just for the views. Sapphire Falls’ gorgeous waterfalls are worth a visit and while you are there visit Strong Water Tavern. In our opinion, Strong Water has the best craft cocktails at Universal and excellent small plates.

Roayl Pacific is a chill, modern South Pacific beach resort. Unique shopping is located next to the pool, a high end sushi bar also acts as the resort’s lobby bar, and Jake’s American Bar is an ex-pat beer bar. On Saturday evenings is the Wantilan Luau an all-you-can-eat luau featuring island delicacies and dancers. Hard Rock Hotel features gardens, rock memorabilia all over the resort, and the Velvet Bar in the lobby. Portofino Bay is a gorgeous recreation of the bay at Portofino, Italy. The port is full of small shops and restaurants for sampling including hosting the quarterly Harbor Nights festivals. Along the port is the Thirsty Fish pub, which is worth it if you hike to the hotel.

CityWalk is Universal Orlando’s shopping and dining district which everyone must walk through to access USF, IOA, or other resorts. When at CityWalk visit the chocolate shop at Toothsome, the Epic Universe preview center for Nintendo merchandise, and the Univeral Studios Store for all things Universal Orlando. Resort hopping is a great time to sample new restaurants. Bigfire and Antojitos have lively bars with full liquor, wine, and beer options and NBC Sports Grill & Brew has dozens of TVs turned to sports and a wide assortment of appetizers and draft beers. Speaking of bars, the Red Coconut Club turns into a seasonal bar with decorations and unique cocktails.

TouringPlans Touring Tips

• Most restaurant restaurants, bars, and lounges open after 4:00 p.m., so consider visiting the hotels in the early evening.
• The boat ride from CityWalk to Portofino Bay is iconic, especially at night. We highly recommend making the boat trip to Portofino instead of walking or taking the bus.
• Remember, you are visiting hotels, be respectful of those staying there.

What are your trips for hotel hopping around the Universal Orlando Resort? Leave your suggestions in the comments below!

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Joseph Matt

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

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25 Essential Tips for Universal Studios Orlando

V isiting a theme park like Universal Studios is so much fun and exciting but it can be chaos if you go in with no plan. With the rising cost of… well, everything these days it can be stressful to plan a vacation of any kind but when you are planning around something like a theme park that will require tickets to enter, food, and so much more you want to make sure that you are saving every dollar that you can, that you plan your trip to make sure you get your money’s worth, and that everything goes as smooth as it possibly can. 

After reading this article, you’ll be armed with all of my favorite Universal Orlando tips that you need for an amazing trip! I’ll cover everything starting with considerations as you book your trip to Universal Studios Florida to how to save money and maximize your experience in the park.

Where to Stay at Universal Orlando – Tips to Decide

If you plan on at least two days at Universal Studios, consider staying at an on-property hotel. They’re extremely convenient and most of them offer perks specific to Universal Orlando resort guests.

The best perks – Unlimited Express Pass and Early Access – are reserved for folks staying at Hard Rock Hotel , Loews Portofino Bay Hotel and Loews Royal Pacific Resort . All three are walking distance to the theme parks, which makes it even easier to take advantage of your early park admission. You might even have the Wizarding World of Harry Potter all to yourself!

If you’re looking themed hotel rooms at Universal Studios in Orlando, these Premier Hotels are where you’ll find them as well. These suites all sleep up to 5 people in two separate spaces.

• Hard Rock Hotel – Future Rock Star Suites
• Loews Portofino Bay Hotel – Despicable Me Kid’s Suites
• Loews Royal Pacific Resort – Jurassic World Kid’s Suites

The downside of Premier Hotels is that they’re really expensive, starting around $400 per night but sometimes as much as $800 per night. But with four Unlimited Express Passes per room (including the day you check in and the day you check out) it might be worth it since those passes start at $130 each for park-to-park visitors.

Lots of people do a “split stay” – one night at a Universal Premier hotel, followed by a few nights at a mid-priced Disney World hotel like Pop Century or Art of Animation . Following that strategy also lets you avoid the extra expense of renting a car – you’ll just need to takeUbers to and from the airport and one between Universal and Walt Disney World.

One of the best Universal Orlando resort tips? To get a Premier room and all its benefits for free, you can apply for the Chase Sapphire Preferred and use the sign up bonus – worth at least $750 depending on the current promotion – to book through the Ultimate Reward portal. Small business owners can level up by also applying for the Chase Ink Business Preferred card , with a bonus worth $1500 when combined with the Sapphire Reserve.

If you’re not worried about the Express Passes or themed rooms, Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort is a good Universal hotel option at a reasonable price point. You’ll still get Early Park Admission one hour before regular park opening, though you’ll have to take the free shuttle bus or walk 20 minutes to the entrance.

The design choices are fun and lively and when you aren’t at the parks you can dive in to the fantastic pool area (complete with waterslide and lazy river) or enjoy on-site bowling! Cabana Bay offers everything from standard rooms up to 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom suites that sleep up to 8 people . Check available room types for your dates.

For those who would rather stay at an amazing off-property hotel that the whole family will love, check out the JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes . This newly renovated, ultra-luxe hotel will satisfy high-end hotel lovers. There’s a big brand new water park – just take a look at these photos to see how amazing it looks. Because it’s a little removed from the theme park areas, the JW sits on over 500 acres and has plenty of outdoor areas to explore including ecotours, falconry, fishing and more. The JW Studio has video games, foosball, ski ball, air hockey and more. It’s about a 15 minute drive to Universal Studios Orlando theme parks.

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Tips for Universal Orlando Vacation Booking

Planning is essential when it comes to a successful trip, the more you are planned and prepared for – the more success you will have. Try some of these planning tips when it’s time for you to start planning your Universal Studios trip. 

• Start Planning Early: When it comes to something like Universal Studios, you will want to start planning relatively early. I recommend planning about 6 months to 1 year prior to when you are planning on going. This allows you to time to save the money necessary for your trip as well as booking all of the necessary reservations such as hotel, park tickets, and more.
• Check the Crowd Calendar: When it comes to picking when you want to take your visit, check on the crowd calendar to see peak times to avoid. Universal Orlando lines can be brutal and the park gets extremely busy during peak seasons such as the summer and holiday seasons. Unless you are visiting for a specific occasion, try to plan to visit during the off-season where you may have a less stressful visit and see more of the Universal Orlando resort. Our recent visit on a Monday in mid-October saw very manageable crowds, and many visitors have had success on weekdays in late August and through September.

Weigh a Multi-Day Trip vs a Park to Park Ticket: One of the first decisions you’ll have to make as you plan your visit to Universal Orlando is whether you should choose a multi-day ticket or a park to park ticket – or you may want to choose a multi-day park to park ticket! There are two Universal Orlando parks within the Universal Studios Florida property as well as a seasonal water park, Volcano Bay.

You’ll have to evaluate in advance what you want to do at Universal Studios in the context of all the other things to do in Orlando . If you want to do absolutely everything , a two or three day park to park ticket may be the right fit. On the other hand, if you don’t like thrill rides or are visiting with small children then a one day park to park ticket should do the trick.

Why am I specifically recommending park to park tickets over single-park tickets? The Hogwarts Express connects the two parks through the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and it’s only available with park to park tickets. Don’t buy a single park ticket and then be disappointed! Unlike Walt Disney World , the two main parks at Universal Orlando are an easy walking distance apart so it’s feasible to hop back and forth multiple times per day. There’s also no specific time at which you’re allowed to switch parks. We bounced around several times without issue.

• Know Ride Height Requirements: If you are traveling with younger children, this is an important thing to note. Many of the Universal Studios rides are more intense, both aesthetically and physically, than those at Disney World and have a minimum height requirement. It’s a good idea to check out height requirements prior to visiting the park so you have an idea of what may work for your family and what may not – petite families like ours simply don’t have access to all of the rides, and knowing those limits may help you decide how many days to spend at Universal Studios. One ride at Universal’s Islands of Adventure requires riders to be 54″!

Universal Studios Tricks Shortly Before You Visit & At the Parks

Arrive at the Park Early: If you want to get a jump start on things you will want to arrive to the park early. If you’re staying off-property, you’ll park in the same parking structures that are used for Universal CityWalk and then go to the security pavilion, after which you walk through City Walk to the park entrances. Those security lines can get long! We arrived in the parking structure a little after the 8am opening and it took around 15 minutes to get into the park; by that time there was already a 30 minute wait for our first ride. If you wait until 9am or later to arrive, plan on even longer to get

If you’re staying at one of the Universal hotels, you’ll be allowed to arrive one hour before park opening. Be sure to take advantage of that, as you should be able to experience a lot before the real crowds arrive.

• Download the Universal Orlando Resort App Before You Go. While every day is different, you can take a peak at your highest-priority rides and shows a few days or even a week before you visit to see what typical wait times look like. You can also add them to My Favorites for easy access once you’re in the park, and there’s even a Wait Time Alert feature to let you know when the lines have gotten shorter and you should head over. You’ll also want to use the app for mobile food ordering, so be sure to get it set up before you get to the park.

Have a Rough Plan For Your Day. While flexibility is critical, it’s good to arrive at Universal Studios Florida with a general idea of how you’re going to divide your time and prioritize experiences. That’s especially true if you have park to park tickets. For example, our kids really wanted to ride Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem and it’s near the entrance to Universal Studios Florida. We also planned for the biggest chunk of our day to be spent in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, so we hit Minions first and then gunned it over to Diagon Alley and got in line to pick out wands at Ollivanders. If we’d wanted to ride Escape from Gingotts, that would have been a great choice as soon as arriving in the area since the line can get extremely long.

We also knew that we wanted to hop over to Universal’s Islands of Adventure to experience Hogsmeade and the Hogwarts Castle with enough time to return to Universal Studios Florida for the last run of Bourne Stuntacular – don’t miss that show! Sitting down with the app in advance and making a rough plan for the day will serve you well.

Of course it’s important to know which park you’ll be starting at. Generally they both open at the same time but one park has Early Park Admission for guests staying on-property. If you’re staying on site that’s the obvious place to start, while if you’re staying in an independent hotel you may find smaller crowds at the other park.

• Plan To Attend Some Shows. Universal Studios Orlando offers plenty of great entertainment at no extra charge. The trick is to get a handle on their schedules in advance, as they can be pretty limited some days. For example The Tales of Beedle the Bard in Diagon Alley only runs 10am to 3:30pm some days.
• If you see a souvenir you like, buy it. Once you enter Diagon Alley you’ll realize that a huge portion of its real estate is actually shopping. There are some fun, unique items that you’ll only find there and in other shops within the themed lands of the Universal Studios theme parks. While there’s a large Universal shop on CityWalk, it doesn’t always get the same merchandise as the smaller locations within the parks. That’s somewhat of a contrast to Walt Disney World, where you’ll find an enormous variety (nearly everything) at both the Disney Springs World of Disney store as well as the Emporium in Magic Kingdom.

Money Saving Tips for Universal Studios

No matter who you are and when you are visiting, I know we all love to save as much money as we can! A trip to Universal Studios can be pretty pricey but there are some tricks to saving a little bit of money.

• Buy Tickets Online: The easiest way to save money on Universal Studios tickets is to buy them in advance from a legitimate source. You’ll save a few dollars person on a 1 day park to park ticket, but a family buying a 2 day ticket can easily save over $100! You’ll also save precious time at the gate.
• Consider Ticket/Resort Packages: If you’ve decided to stay at a Universal Studios hotel, you might score a great deal by booking the hotel and tickets together as a package .
• Check for Deals/Specials: Often times Universal will run deals and promotions that will provide you some savings. These may include multi-day ticket purchases at a discounted rate and more! You can find current deals here .
• Check for Discounts: There are a few qualifications that may get you a discounted rate when it comes to purchasing Universal tickets. For example, they offer a discounted cost to both Military personnel (active, retired, and spouse of the military) AAA members, and Florida residents.
• Bring Water and Snacks. Universal Studios Florida allows you to bring up to 2 liters of water along with snacks and even a small soft-sided cooler. They don’t have facilities for heating up food, but feel free to pack sandwiches or even cheese, crackers and apples for an easy, cost-effective lunch. You might want to bring enough food for lunch and an afternoon snack and then you can plan for dinner on CityWalk as soon as the parks close. (We ate lunch at Three Broomsticks and were underwhelmed by the balance of quality vs price.)

Choose Dining Options Wisely. Lots of Universal tips will tell you to eat tons of thematic snacks in the theme parks. But if you are going to purchase food at Universal Studios Orlando, choose wisely!

We liked the ice cream at Florian Fortescue’s but found most of the candies at Honeydukes to be gimmicky and not great. TODAY Cafe has a surprisingly nice range of breakfast/brunch/lunch options and pastries for an afternoon snack – we mobile ordered breakfast while in line for our first ride and then picked it up when we were done!

For a quick lunch, I’ve heard solid recommendations for Bumblebee Man’s Taco Truck at Universal Studios and Green Eggs and Ham in Universal’s Islands of Adventure.

One thing to be sure you try? A nice refreshing cup of butterbeer!

• Buy Shirts Online Before You Go. This one is straightforward, but you don’t have to wait until you arrive at Universal Studios or City Walk to buy your themed shirts for the day. You’ll spend less and enjoy a bigger selection if you purchase them in advance! We chose all of ours from this extensive selection .

Time Saving Universal Orlando Tips and Tricks

If you are looking to make the most of your trip and ensure that you have an action packed day, then you may want to keep these time savings tips and tricks in mind when it comes to planning out your day.

• Consider Universal Express Passes : Although it’s pretty pricey, the Universal Express Pass may be worth the money if you are visiting during a busier time of the year and you want to do everything at Universal in just one day. You may want to consider Universal Studios premier resorts , which include the Universal Express Pass with your stay. The cost could make it worth booking at one of these hotels compared to a value resort, especially since you’ll be walking distance to the park’s entrance. Combined with early admission, you can really make the most of limited time this way!
• Don’t Rely Exclusively on Hogwarts Express to Park Hop: I get it. The whole reason most people feel compelled to buy a Universal park to park ticket is to ride the Hogwarts Express. It’s very cool and definitely adds to the magical feeling of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter rides! That said, as the day progresses the wait time can be upwards of an hour. The two parks are plenty close to walk between – less than 10 minutes from gate to gate.
• Use the Single Riders Line: Most Universal attractions offer a single riders line. Here you will face a significantly shorter wait time and will in turn have the opportunity to fit more into your day. Contrary to the name of the single rider’s line, quite often you will find that you will still get to ride in the same ride car as your partner or group but you just may not be sitting right next to them. If you’re visiting Universal Studios without kids or your kids are older and don’t mind, that’s a great tradeoff for a much shorter line. 
• Utilize the Universal Orlando App : Having the Universal Orlando app is very beneficial when you are visiting the parks. You can find resources including a park map, ride and attractions wait times, scheduled show times, and more!

Skip Sit-Down Dinner in the Theme Parks (If You Can): This tip won’t work for everyone, but if you’re able to push your group for a late dinner at City Walk you’ll be able to take advantage of the quieter night hours at Universal Studios. Universal’s Islands of Adventure is often open later than Universal Studios Florida but sometimes everything is done by 7pm or 8pm.

We didn’t do this an instead opted for a nice dinner at Mythos, the interior of Poseidon’s cave pictured above. The food was very good and it’s a beautifully themed restaurant, but we missed out on the last 90 minutes of park time. It was the right choice for our family after three days of hustling around theme parks (and we had a very special 11th birthday to celebrate) but if we go again we’ll probably make a different choice.

What To Bring To Universal Studios Orlando Tips

If you don’t read any other Universal Orlando tips, be sure to review these!

• Wear the most comfortable shoes you can find. I brought these sneakers for our trip to Orlando and they worked out great even through we covered a whopping 23 miles in three days. We hit 20,000 steps just on our day at Universal Studios!

Since you’ll be walking a ton and Orlando is almost never cold, prepare to drink a lot of water. All eateries in Universal Orlando will give you a free cup, or you can use Coke Freestyle machines for water anywhere you see them.

Since we are a family of four and we like to stay hydrated, we brought a hydration bladder in our backpack in addition to a smaller insulated bottle. Collectively we went through about 6 liters of water, so I was very glad we brought the bladder! Otherwise we would have been stopping constantly to refill instead of bouncing from one activity to another.

If you want to be chosen at Ollivander’s, you have to dress the part. My son was the lucky young wizard chosen for the wand receiving ceremony! I think he had a few factors weighing in his favor. First, he and his sister came fully decked out in their house shirts and robes. Second, it was his 11th birthday and he had the official Universal Studios pin given out at guest services. Third, while waiting for our turn with Mr. Ollivander we chatted up our escort and made sure she knew that he was there for his 11th birthday because that’s when all young witches and wizards matriculate at Hogwarts. She could tell we were into it and I think she gave a nod to Mr. Ollivander himself.

Even if it isn’t your birthday, I think coming in costume with one of these robes will help your case!

• The #1 item to put on your Universal Studios Orlando packing list? An external battery pack , without question, is the most important thing to bring on your Universal Orlando trip. When I polled my Facebook group the day before traveling it was everyone’s top recommendation and they were right! Between taking photos and videos, tracking my kids on their AirTags , refreshing the Universal app to check wait times and show schedules, and ordering food I ended up needing a second battery back. Fortunately I had ordered this one right before our trip and it worked incredibly well. There’s also a version for non-iPhones .

Visiting Universal Orlando FAQS

The best way to get the most out of your time at Universal Orlando is to decide on your priorities. Whether you love thrill rides or can’t get enough of casting spells with the interactive wants in Diagon Alley, there’s a good chance you won’t be able to do absolutely everyone in a single visit to Universal Studios unless you spend lots of time there. Don’t stress out, leave the FOMO behind, and have a blast doing what’s meaningful to you!

Yes, we brought this backpack and it worked perfectly. I also attached this partner to it, which was extremely helpful when our family opted to divide and conquer – it was the perfect Universal Studios trick to make sure we could each still carry the essentials without being bogged down.

For rides that are physically intense – and you’ll find quite a few at Universal Studios Orlando – there are free lockers to stash your stuff before you get on the ride.

Many first time visitors to Universal Studios feel like they’ve had their fill after one or two days of park to park tickets. If you’re visiting in the warm weather and don’t have other plans for Orlando, consider adding another day for Volcano Bay. Sometimes you’ll find promotions here that give you two free days when you buy two, but personally I think that four days would feel pretty repetitive and there are plenty of other great things to do in Orlando !

Planning Your Visit to Universal Studios Orlando Theme Parks And Beyond

If you are planning a trip to visit Universal Studios Florida, I strongly recommend making a plan to maximize your experience. I hope that some of our experiences and Universal tips for first-timers help you in planning your Universal vacation. Just remember: there’s no one best way to do Universal Studios, only your way!

Be sure to read these articles as you plan the rest of your amazing trip to Orlando:

• Fantastic Things to do in Orlando With Tweens
• 25 Tips for Disney World That Won’t Make You Crazy
• Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Review: Is It As Good As You’ve Heard?
• Disney All-Star Music Resort Reviews: A Repeat Visitor’s Inside Scoop
• Transportation From MCO to Port Canaveral: 5 Ways to Get to The Port Canaveral Cruise Terminal
• Complete Guide to Visiting Kennedy Space Center: Tips & Tricks
• Attainable Bucket List Item: Swim With Manatees in Crystal River, Florida
• Fun Things to do in Sarasota with Kids: A Delightful Weekend Getaway
• Hyatt Regency Sarasota Review: Family-Friendly Fun
• Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Review: A Weekend Getaway Wrapped in a Bow
• Things To Do In Miami With Kids: A Weekend Getaway For All Ages

Still planning? Pin this for later!

The post 25 Essential Tips for Universal Studios Orlando appeared first on The Family Voyage .

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First-ever dining package coming to universal orlando resort, dining card can be used throughout resort.

Haley Coomes , Digital Content Producer

ORLANDO, Fla. – From sipping Butterbeer in the Wizarding World to snacking on a Lard Lad Donut in Simpsons Land, Universal Orlando Resort has some iconic food offerings, and starting in November, guests can maximize their vacation dollars.

For the first time, U.S. and Canadian residents will have the option to purchase a Dining Card Vacation Package that includes a food and beverage dining card worth up to $1,000.

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Package holders can use the dining card across more than 200 venues that offer something for every palate, including:

• Full-service restaurants like The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen at Universal CityWalk
• Quick-service locations like TODAY Cafe in Universal Studios Florida
• Hotel dining options like Strong Water Tavern at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort

“Our dining offerings are continuously evolving and we work incredibly hard to deliver memorable food experiences that offer something for everyone,” said Chef Jens Dahlmann, Vice President of Culinary Operations at Universal Orlando Resort. “From our original dining concepts to themed food inspired by beloved stories and characters, our offerings play a significant role in the overall storytelling of our theme parks and have become as much as a ‘must-do’ as our amazing collection of attractions.”

Available for purchase now for select travel dates from Nov. 7 through April 10, 2025, the offer also includes four or five-plus night stays at one of Universal Orlando Resort’s hotels and the value of the dining card varies depending on the hotel and the number of nights of each stay (one card per hotel room).

The package also includes four or five-plus Day Park-to-Park Tickets to enjoy Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure. There is also an option to add access to the Volcano Bay water theme park.

For more information on the dining card, click here .

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About the Author

Haley coomes.

Haley is a digital content producer for ClickOrlando.com and first started as a News 6 producer in October 2014. She's a graduate of Indiana University with a Bachelors of Arts degree in journalism. She specializes in theme parks and lifestyle writing.

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Cosmic dining details revealed for epic universe sister hotels, coming soon: check out the roller coasters coming to epic universe, universal orlando’s 4th theme park, epic universe foodie guide: what restaurants will be at universal’s newest park.

Universal Offering $1,000 To Visit Theme Parks

in Universal Orlando

Universal Orlando Resort wants you to visit the theme parks this year, so it’s offering you and your family $1,000.

Universal Orlando Resort Is Fairing Well Against Disney in Terms of Attendance Rates

AECOM and the Themed Entertainment Association (TEA) have unveiled their 2023 Theme Index, an annual report detailing global attendance figures for theme parks and attractions. This year’s report, released in 2024, marks a return to the usual ranking process after a hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to a freeze in the rankings from 2019 to 2022.

According to the 2023 Theme Index, Universal Studios Japan ranks as the third most-visited theme park worldwide, up from fifth place in 2022.

Meanwhile, Universal’s other parks also performed strongly, with Universal Islands of Adventure securing the 11th spot, Universal Studios Florida at 13th, Universal Studios Hollywood at 14th, and Universal Studios Beijing at 15th.

This is a notable improvement for Universal Studios Beijing, which did not appear in the top 25 last year but saw a significant 109.3% increase in attendance. Universal Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida experienced declines in visitor numbers, with both parks seeing a 9.3% drop compared to 2022.

Universal Islands of Adventure ended 2023 with approximately 10 million guests, while Universal Studios Florida attracted around 9.75 million visitors. In contrast, Universal Studios Hollywood improved its position, moving from 15th to 14th place with a 15% increase in attendance. In the North American rankings, Universal Islands of Adventure has climbed to the fifth spot, surpassing its 2022 position of seventh.

A $1,000 Towards Your Vacation? Yes Please!

Universal Studios Florida dropped seventh place from sixth, and Universal Studios Hollywood advanced from ninth to eighth. But despite the slight drop in attendance rates from 2022 to 2023, things will surely be on the rise for this theme park giant as Epic Universe , Universal’s newest theme park, will open up and lead to millions of more guests flocking this place instead of Disney World.

They have affordable annual passes and discounts throughout the year, and they take care of their passengers.

There is a new deal where families earn nearly $1,000 for their Universal vacation . Universal Orlando Resort has unveiled a new promotion offering substantial dining credits with its four—and five-night vacation packages .

For bookings between November 7 and April 10, 2025 , guests can receive dining credits valued at hundreds of dollars when they purchase a vacation package that includes hotel accommodations and theme park admission.

The amount of dining credit varies based on the hotel and the length of stay. For guests staying at the Hard Rock Hotel, Portofino Bay, and Royal Pacific, a four-night stay earns a $800 dining credit, while a five-night stay provides $1,000. At Sapphire Falls and Cabana Bay, guests receive $500 for a four-night stay and $600 for five nights.

The credits for Aventura, Stella Nova, and Terra Luna are $400 for four nights and $500 for five nights. Those staying at Endless Summer Dockside and Surfside will get $300 for four nights and $400 for five nights. Guests will receive a Food & Beverage card, which can be picked up from the hotel’s Vacation Planning desk after check-in.

It’s important to note that the offer is limited to one card per hotel room and cannot be combined with other discounts or offers. The offer excludes specific locations such as Tribute Stores and room service. Suites are generally not included, except for the 2-bedroom suites at Endless Summer and Family Suites at Cabana Bay.

The dining credits provide significant savings, with an average quick-service meal costing between $76 and $100 for a family of four, amounting to approximately $200 per day. This makes the promotion particularly attractive, especially for Hard Rock, Royal Pacific, and Portofino Bay hotel stays. Cabana Bay offers the highest value among mid-tier hotels, offering an additional $100 dining credit compared to Aventura.

Aerial overview of the Epic Universe construction site at night. In foreground are Terra Luna and Stella Nova resorts. Both with their star lights on. Stella Nova pool also recently filled (at right). – @bioreconstruct on X

Aerial overview of the Epic Universe construction site at night. In foreground are Terra Luna and Stella Nova resorts. Both with their star lights on. Stella Nova pool also recently filled (at right). pic.twitter.com/af7ahxQEic — bioreconstruct (@bioreconstruct) August 17, 2024

From The Wizarding World of Harry Potter to Jurassic Park , Universal Studios Orlando Florida, Universal CityWalk, Universal Volcano Bay, and Islands of Adventure offer guests an experience. Each Universal Park gives guests the ultimate theme park vibes. Universal Creative is working hard over Epic Universe, creating a whole new world.

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Families Are Going Into Debt for Disney Vacations

Some families are spending more than they can afford on Disney vacations. They say it’s because they know their children won’t stay young forever.

Credit... Photo Illustration by The New York Times

Supported by

By Jessica Fu

• Published Aug. 20, 2024 Updated Aug. 21, 2024, 4:03 p.m. ET

Alyssa Leach and her husband have visited Walt Disney World in Orlando, Fla., every year since 2015. To them, the theme park feels like an oasis where they can escape the stress of everyday life.

So when their son, Lincoln, was born in 2020, Ms. Leach wanted his first visit to the park to be special and spared no expense in planning it. She booked a two-week trip to visit Florida in December 2022, which included stays at Disney World and Universal Studios.

The costs quickly accumulated. Ms. Leach and her family traveled from New Haven, Conn., and paid extra for admission to “Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party,” an after-hours event that cost about $200 per person. She also shelled out $100 for the theme park’s photo service so she could download photos of the family that photographers took during the visit.

The vacation cost around $6,000, which included accommodations, tickets and a car rental, and which Ms. Leach charged to her Disney-branded credit card.

Ms. Leach is one of many parents who have taken on debt for a Disney family vacation. In June, LendingTree, a financial firm, published the results of a survey of over 2,000 people that found that 45 percent of parents with children under 18 who have gone to Disney went into debt for the trip.

For a family of four, the cost of a one-week trip to Disney can range from $6,463 to $15,559, not including flights or souvenirs, according to an analysis by NerdWallet, a personal finance site. Many families can’t afford the trip at all. Last week, Disney reported softening demand for its theme parks because families, after years of dealing with high inflation, have less money to spend on amusement.

But Ms. Leach, 38, who works in sales, relies on quarterly bonuses to cover vacation costs. She and her husband earn about $250,000 annually, combined, though that figure can fluctuate each year. Her family doesn’t always have the money to pay for vacations upfront. Instead, she books first, then pays off her balances as the bonuses come in.

For the trip in 2022, Ms. Leach paid the minimum on her credit card for two months, accruing around $382 in interest before she was able to pay off the balance.

Disney stories, and the characters who populate them, are deeply embedded in American pop culture, and many families consider a trip to Disney-themed parks to be a rite of passage. The Magic Kingdom theme park at Disney World is the biggest amusement park in the world by attendance, drawing over 17.1 million visitors in 2022, according to a report by Aecom, an infrastructure consulting firm. The second biggest is Disneyland in California, which drew more than 16.8 million visitors in the same year.

Ms. Leach said she had no regrets about taking her young son on his first Disney trip.

“I’ll make more money,” she said. “But he’ll never be that young again.” Today, the family lives in Tampa, Fla., and each member has a Disney World annual pass.

“Disney does carry a level of nostalgia for people,” said Rachel Cruze, who hosts a personal finance podcast and wrote a personal finance book with her father, Dave Ramsey, geared toward parents. “It’s a lot of people’s childhoods. When you can go to one singular place and have so many of those memories and those characters come to life, it does bring a level of joy.”

However, Ms. Cruze said, the pressure to visit Disney theme parks and to go all out for what may be a once-in-a-lifetime trip can lead families to spend beyond their means. Often, visitors contend with sticker shock when they arrive at the park.

For Johnny Esfeller of Helena, Ala., Disney was a central part of his childhood. When he became a parent, he wanted his daughter to experience the same love for the theme park and its characters.

Mr. Esfeller, 41, who works in public relations and marketing, prides himself on nailing his budgets. So when he took his wife and their daughter, then 4, to Disney World in February 2022, he was shocked to find himself in debt after the trip.

“Disney’s never been a cheap vacation,” he said. “That’s been true since probably when Walt opened the park in the 1950s.” He had budgeted about $6,000 for the trip, but overspent by $2,500.

Mr. Esfeller and his wife are both employed full time and describe themselves as upper middle class. Together, they were able to pay off the debt from the trip in a few months. Still, it lingers in his memory like a cautionary tale.

He and his wife consider themselves seasoned Disney vacationers, but they were caught off guard by numerous pricing changes. The biggest one involved the park’s line-skipping system. For years, Disney offered visitors FastPass, a free service that allowed them to effectively hold a reserved time slot to ride an attraction without having to wait in long, winding lines. The park replaced it with a paid version in the fall of 2021. The cost of FastPass can vary depending on the ride, theme park and time of year.

The service cost Mr. Esfeller’s family $15 per person per day. “By the end of the trip, it was several hundred dollars that I didn’t bank on,” he said.

But shelling out extra for the new paid version of the line-skipping service, Mr. Esfeller said, didn’t feel like a choice.

“You’re there, you’re not sure when you’re coming back, and it’s like: ‘Fine, I’ll just bite the bullet. We’ll worry about the cost later,’” he said. “I just didn’t want my daughter to miss out on anything.”

Another example of what Mr. Esfeller described as the “nickel-and-diming” of his experience involved transportation within the park. Previously, Disney offered a shuttle service, branded as the Minnie Van and operated by Lyft. The company initially charged a $25 flat rate to transport families between any two locations on the resort premises. By the time Mr. Esfeller and his family were vacationing in 2022, it was operating on a surge-pricing model instead.

Also gone during their trip were prepaid dining plans that let families budget a flat payment for a set number of meals. (Disney brought back its dining plans in 2024 because of demand.)

A spokesperson for Disney said the company offered vacation options at multiple price points, including for hotels, park tickets, transportation and merchandise. The spokesperson said that the FastPass pricing model was standard in the industry, and that one benefit of variable pricing was lower costs for rides and parks that saw less demand.

Ms. Cruze advises families against going into debt for vacations. She said more families should consider less expensive travel, such as going to national parks. Though a Disney vacation can feel like an escape from reality, families eventually return to everyday life.

“If you don’t have the money, and you charge it, then that vacation follows you home for the next few months,” Ms. Cruze said.

She urges people to hold off on traveling until they have a solid amount of savings socked away, including for emergencies, before booking a vacation.

But that doesn’t work for all families. Rebecca Mitchell used to take on significant credit card debt to pay for Disney trips for herself and her child, who is now in college. As a single mother living in Iowa, Ms. Mitchell, 46, did administrative work for a company that sold manufacturing material, earning $15 an hour.

At the time, she didn’t think that saving and budgeting could do much for her. Whenever she managed to put some money away, a financial emergency would wipe it out.

“Had I waited for the money, I don’t know if I would have ever done it,” Ms. Mitchell said of the Disney trips.

Ms. Mitchell first took her child to Disney World in 2008, and they have returned to the theme park regularly. Her strategy has always been to just book the trip and then figure it out along the way.

She estimated that the trips with her child typically cost $2,500. When booking a vacation with Disney, families are required to make a minimum deposit of $200 to reserve their tickets and accommodations. Ms. Mitchell would pay the minimum deposit and then make additional payments whenever and however she could in the weeks before the trip. When it was time to take off, she charged the remaining balance to her credit card and typically paid off the debt within six months.

Ms. Mitchell said she had no regrets about taking on the debt. “I was young, my child was young, we only had that time,” she said. “Especially once your kids get older, memories are everything.”

An earlier version of this article misstated Rebecca Mitchell’s age; she is 46, not 48.

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