Universal Orlando Resort™ includes Universal’s family of theme parks, hotels, and entertainment complexes.
It has developed into a world class destination including 3 amazing theme parks, Universal Studios™, Universal’s Islands of Adventure™ (where you will also find The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™), and Universal's Volcano Bay™ Water Theme Park
The great dining and night-time entertainment complex CityWalk™ completes the mix, along with several superb on-site hotels.
Want even more value? Why not combine other attractions with one of our COMBO packages
The main benefit of buying your tickets to Universal Orlando in advance is that you save money on the gate price.
You also know exactly how much you've spent ahead of time, instead of trying to guess the gate price in advance.
It also reduces the stress of the day, by knowing you already have your tickets secure.
Plus you'll be skipping the large entrance lines queuing for on-the-day tickets. The joy on your children’s faces as they race to their favourite rides without delay is priceless.
Our Park Explorer tickets provide access to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure for 14 days straight, so you can return as many times as you like during that period to ride your favorite rollercoaster again and again.
Below we've listed all of the tips we wish we'd known before we visited Universal for the first time:
Download the Universal Orlando App: This app provides real-time information on wait times, show schedules, and an interactive map. It’s like having a personal guide in your pocket, ensuring you don’t miss any must-see attractions.
Stay at an On-Site Hotel: Guests at Universal's hotels often get early park admission and complimentary transportation to the parks. This can significantly enhance your experience, making it easier to navigate and enjoy everything the parks offer.
Pack Smart: Bring essentials like sunscreen, hats, and refillable water bottles. Universal Orlando allows small snacks, which can be a lifesaver with kids. Comfortable shoes are a must for a day filled with walking and excitement.
Plan Your Meals: Make dining reservations in advance for popular restaurants, especially if your kids have their hearts set on eating at themed venues. The anticipation of dining in a magical setting can add to their excitement.
Use Child Swap Programs: Universal offers a child swap program for families with younger kids who can’t ride certain attractions. One parent waits with the child while the other rides, and then they switch without having to stand in line again. This ensures everyone gets a chance to enjoy the attractions.
Leverage the Virtual Line System: For some attractions, Universal offers a Virtual Line system where you can reserve a spot in line via the app. This means you can explore other areas of the park instead of waiting in a physical line, maximizing your time and enjoyment.
Check Height Requirements in Advance: Knowing the height requirements for rides before you go can save time and prevent disappointment. Prepare your children for which rides they can go on to avoid any letdowns at the park.
Bring a Portable Charger: Between taking photos, using the app, and keeping in touch with family, your phone battery can drain quickly. A portable charger ensures you stay connected and can capture every magical moment.
Utilize Single Rider Lines: If your family is okay with splitting up for certain rides, the single rider lines can significantly reduce wait times. This option is great for older kids and adults who want to experience the attractions multiple times.
Take Advantage of Free Water: Any restaurant that serves fountain drinks will give you free cups of water. Staying hydrated is crucial, especially in the Florida heat, so make sure to take advantage of this.
Keep an Eye on Weather Updates: Florida weather can be unpredictable. Check the forecast regularly and pack ponchos or light rain jackets if needed. Being prepared for sudden rain showers can prevent disruptions to your fun.
My experience: When I last visited Universal Studios during August, me and my partner decided to use the single rider line for the Hulk, as the queue was very long, and it meant we got many more rides in during the day. We also found investing in the express passes to be well worth it, particularly during peak season.
You can find out more about the Universal Orlando Resort™ parks on our dedicated pages by clicking the links below:
No they are different parks. Universal Studios™ is part of the Universal Orlando Resort™ and contains film based attractions and rides. Disney's Holywood Studios™ is part of the Walt Disney World Resort™,
Realistically if you're trying to do both parks in one day, you will have to start early / finish late, and make sure you have fast passes for the larger rides. It is much better to try and do the parks on two days, giving you plenty of time to enjoy yourself.
Universal Orlando Resort™ is 15 minute drive from Disney World, not including the time it takes you to park.
The two parks are slightly different, so it depends on what you like. Universal Studios™ has some large rollercoasters, but is mainly for smaller and novel attractions / rides, whereas Universal's Islands of Adventure™ contains all the big rollercoasters and more extreme thrill rides.
There are two sections of Harry Potter attractions, one in each of the parks. Diagon Alley is located in Universal Studios™ (which contains the fire breathing dragon over the bank among other things!) and Hogsmeade is in Universal's Islands of Adventure™. You can even take the Hogwarts Express train between the two parks!
Both parks are similar sizes, and there is no real reason to choose between one or the other, as most tickets will come with access to both.
This will depend on your personal preference, but our favourite rides at the two parks are:
You will have to decide for yourself when you get there!
Also checkout the Halloween Horror Nights tickets.
Yes, you can buy tickets for these together in a combo package deal. The cheapest deal we have is the Real Steal Combo ticket here.