Universal Orlando Tips: 2024 Insider’s Guide

Endless thrills and excitement based on your favorite characters from film, TV, and comic book lore are what’s on the menu at Universal Orlando Resort.

Enjoy an extraordinary escapade as you bounce between two action-packed theme parks and also discover the very best entertainment and adventure the Sunshine State has to offer with our insider’s guide to Universal Orlando Resort. 

From downing sugar-crusted churros to yucking it up with Jimmy Fallon or escaping some not-too-friendly magical creatures with Hagrid, there is no shortage of fun to be had in the Universal universe. If you’re seeing the Universal Studios Florida logo in your dreams it might be time to plan your cosmic getaway. 

Therefore, let our Insider’s Guide to Universal Studios Orlando coach you through over 500 acres of magic, fantasy, and cutting-edge rides.

No need to be scouring the internet when we have the best Orlando expert travel advice and Universal Orlando tips right here!

Guide to Universal Orlando Park

Universal Orlando Resort has entertained visitors from around the world for over thirty years. 

The entire resort is technically made up of three separate theme parks:

  • Universal Studios Florida
  • Islands of Adventure
  • Volcano Bay (water park)

AND a massive dining and shopping complex area called CityWalk.

photo credit: Hollywood Drive-In Golf via Facebook

Universal Studios Florida

Universal Studios Florida was designed to allow guests an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at creating their favorite films and TV shows. 

Related Post: Ultimate Guide to Universal Orlando Resort: Coupons, Discounts, and Deals

Today, this park showcases classic rides such as E.T. Adventure and the Revenge of the Mummy, in addition to the Diagon Alley section of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. What’s more, we have the inside scoop and Universal Studios Florida tips and tricks.

Islands of Adventure

Islands of Adventure is filled to the brim with high-octane roller coasters and water rides, like Jurassic Park River Adventure and the Incredible Hulk Coaster. 

This adrenaline junkie’s paradise is also where you can find the other half of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade.

With a wave of Harry’s wand, we have a bag of Universal Studios Florida tips and tricks to help plan your magical trip. Read on!

Close up photo of Optimus Prime at Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida, USA
photo credit: Universal Orlando Resort via Facebook

CityWalk

Think theme park fun is just for the kids? Not at Universal Studios Orlando! Create your own adult-friendly night to remember at Universal CityWalk. From movies to mini-golf and everything in between, CityWalk provides a fantastic escape. 

Pro Tip: CityWalk also serves up some salivating eats that can’t be found anywhere else. Check out the Burger King Whopper Bar, which assembles unique Burger concoctions not found on standard Burger King menus.

photo credit: Universal Orlando Resort via Facebook

Universal Orlando Travel Guide

When to Go to Universal Studios Florida

Before you immerse yourself in this extraordinary epicenter of entertainment, you’ll need to pick the ideal time to visit Universal Orlando Resort. 

Related Post: 14 of the Biggest, Baddest Thrill Rides Orlando Has to Offer

Unless you enjoy staggeringly long wait times and heavy crowds, it is best to avoid weekends, major school holidays, and summertime. 

Additionally, foot traffic will always ramp up around Halloween due to the widely popular Halloween Horror Nights Event. Don’t make easily avoidable travel mistakes. Just follow these Universal tips and tricks Orlando! If you’re debating when the best time of year to visit Universal Orlando is, check out When is the Best Time to Visit Orlando.

Pro Tip: As a general rule of thumb, either a Tuesday or Wednesday is the best day of week to visit Universal Orlando.

Slower times to visit include:

  • Labor Day through the first two weeks of November
  • First 2 weeks of December
  • Most of January (except the first week)
  • Most of February

people riding on the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit at Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida, USABuying Tickets

Now that you’ve picked the perfect date to fulfill your Universal Orlando Resort fantasies, you’ll also need to purchase your tickets.

Related Post: Current Events and Festivals in Orlando, Florida

Cut out the guesswork of finding the best price by pre-purchasing your Universal Orlando Resort tickets ahead of time.

By buying online, you are guaranteed the best price and can choose from several ticket options ranging from 1-Park 1-Day base tickets to 3-Park 5-Day Park to Park tickets.

Pro Tip: Considering the size and breadth of Universal Studios Orlando, it is challenging to cover both parks in one day. 

Therefore, as theme park experts, we always suggest springing for at least a 2-Park 2-Day Park to Park Ticket, which allows you to bounce between both parks.

Close up photo to the entrance of the Non Skull Island ride at Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida, USA
photo credit: Universal Orlando Resort via Facebook

Ticket Packages

Orlando is the theme park capital of the world, and it would be a shame not to turn your Universal Orlando trip into a full-fledged sun-soaked vacation!

Therefore, try combining your Universal Orlando activities with other nearby popular attractions like:

for a double dose of thrills and amusement.
Elevate your Universal Studios Orlando experience by bundling your theme park activities with our Universal Orlando Vacation Package

Hotels

With so many options for hotels by Universal Orlando Resort, it can be hard to choose! But luckily, we have a variety of accommodation options, from budget-friendly comfort inns to more deluxe full-service resorts. Whether you stay at the family-friendly Hard Rock Hotel or the European luxury of the Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, there is something for everyone. 

Pro Tip: If you can stay onsite at Universal Studios Orlando, we strongly encourage it! In addition to putting you in the middle of the action, staying onsite provides a host of benefits, such as:

  • Receiving early entry to the park
  • Minimizing driving/commute time
  • Providing free boat or bus shuttles to the park
  • Lively character experiences
  • Utilizing resort-wide charging privileges
photo credit: Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort via Facebook

Park Strategy

We’re not going to lie; preparing for a day (or more) at Universal Studios Orlando sans park strategy is a recipe for disaster. 

Due to the vast nature of the park and the incredible number of rides, shows, and entertainment to participate in, you need to have a plan.

Related Post: How to Make the Most of 3 Days in Orlando

Always arrive at least 30 minutes before the park opening (also known as rope drop). This way you can get a jump on any heavy lines at the park’s most popular attractions. Most especially if you’re interested in Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure roller coaster and Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts since they are the most popular.

Pro Tip: Your plan of attack will vary depending on which Universal rides and shows you wish to prioritize. 

Therefore, as a general rule, try to knock out longer wait times for bigger attractions early in the day.  Then take an air-conditioned reprieve from the hotter temperatures with a live show (like the frightening Fear Factor Live) in the afternoon.

How Many Days Do You Really Need at Universal Studios Orlando?

As a general recommendation, you should plan on spending three days at Universal Studios Orlando to fully experience the wealth of attractions it offers. This allows for a day in each of its two major theme parks- Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, with an extra day to revisit your favorites or explore the Volcano Bay water park. However, your personal interests, energy levels, and how much you enjoy theme parks can also influence the time you choose to spend in this magical place.

Is Universal Studios as Crowded as Disney?

If you have been contemplating between Disney and Universal Studios and are not a fan of large crowds, it’s important to note that Universal was noticeably less crowded. The crowd tends to disperse more effectively across the park, providing a less stressful and more enjoyable experience. However, the crowd size can also depend on the season, with certain periods resulting in both parks being equally filled.

How Do You Avoid Wait Times at Universal Studios?

One savvy technique to minimize your wait times at Universal Studios is to pre-book your tickets, ensuring you’ve already secured a spot on your desired dates. By doing this, you won’t waste precious time standing in long lines at the ticket counter on the day of your visit. Pre-booking your tickets not only guarantees your entry, but it also helps you plan your day and prioritize the attractions you want to visit, thereby optimizing your travel experience.

Close up photo of the Velocicoaster sign in Universal Studios Islands of Adventure in Orlando, Florida, USA
photo credit: Kenny Sabugo via Unsplash

Apps & Passes

Constant connection, effortless navigation, and your custom Universal Studios itinerary are all within your mobile device. 

The Universal Orlando Resort App is here to take the struggle out of managing your theme park schedule. This comprehensive and newly updated app now allows you to:

  • Check ride wait times and showtimes 
  • Navigate using GPS-enabled interactive maps
  • View dining menus so you can plan your next meal
  • Place mobile food & drink orders
  • Select your place in the Virtual Line
  • Pay with Universal Pay, i.e., your own virtual wallet
  • Curate your own personalized list of favorite rides and attractions
  • And so much more!
View of Diagon Alley at night with the dragon on top of Gringotts Bank breathing fire at Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida, USA
photo credit: Universal Orlando Resort via Facebook

Universal Express Pass

Does your Universal Studios Orlando visit happen to coincide with a surge in park attendance? Then kiss unnecessarily long lines goodbye with the Universal Express Pass

Depending on your patience, or lack thereof, you can choose from:

  • Universal Express Passes: allows you to skip the lines 1x per participating ride at both parks
  • The Universal Express Unlimited Pass:  which enables you unlimited skips at participating rides at both parks
  • Many popular rides and attractions feature single-rider lines at both Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure.

Family riding Revenge of the Mummy at Universal Studios Orlando - Orlando, FL USAAnnual Pass

Debating whether or not you’ll want to catch up with Shrek, Spiderman, and the Simpsons cast on a more regular basis? 

Related Post: When is the Best Time to Visit Orlando?

If so, you can seamlessly upgrade your one-day general park admission ticket to an Annual Pass on the day of your visit and glide on through the park entrance. You won’t have to wait in line to hit all the park’s high notes!

Pro Tip: When you stay at the Universal Orlando Resort, you’ll enjoy Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Universal’s Volcano Bay up to one hour before the theme park opens.

Close up photo of the entrance to Jurassic Park in Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida, USA
photo credit: Aditya Vyas via Unsplash

Can’t Miss Attractions

Obviously, we wish we could cover 100% of Universal Studios Orlando during every visit. But unfortunately, due to time constraints, this isn’t always possible. 

So for you to make the most out of your Universal Studios Orlando trip, we’ve narrowed down our top-tier, ca n’t-miss list of attractions in both parks:

 

Universal Studios Florida

  • Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
  • Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
  • Revenge of the Mummy
  • Men In Black Alien Attack
  • Fast & Furious Supercharged
  • Race through New York, Starring Jimmy Fallon

Universal Islands of Adventure

  • Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
  • Jurassic Park River Adventure
  • Skull Island: Reign of Kong
  • The Amazing Adventures of Spiderman
  • The Incredible Hulk Coaster
  • Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
  • Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle
Incredible Hulk Roller Coaster at Islands of Adventure at Universal Studios Orlando - Orlando, FL USA
photo credit: Consulado Geral EUA / US Consulate – Rio via Facebook

Universal Studios Orlando Parking Tips

  • Get an annual pass to receive free or discounted parking at Universal.
  • Park nearby and request an Uber or Lyft.
  • Complimentary self-parking is offered to visitors who arrive after 6 pm (except on Holloween Horror Nights).

What’s New

It turns out there is something new under the Florida sun! Universal Studios Orlando is constantly innovating and upgrading both its parks to generate a more pleasurable visitor experience for all.

Related Post: Universal Studios vs. Islands of Adventure

The Buzziest new rides, shows, and attractions include:

  • DreamWorks Destination – character encounter
  • Jurassic World VelociCoaster – ride
  • Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure – ride
  • The Bourne Stuntacular – show

We have all the Universal Studios Orlando secrets. Did you know the rumor is that Universal Studios Orlando has resumed construction on building a third park named ‘Universal’s Epic Universe.’

This new venture promises to ‘forever change theme park entertainment’ and deliver magic and laughter-filled memories beyond your wildest dreams. 

No official opening date has been slated. 

fisheye shot of exterior of Blondies at Universal Orlando with people seated at outdoor tables in Orlando, Florida, USA
photo credit: Vincent Yang via Facebook

Food & Drink

Magical ice cream, massive burgers, and Butterbeer, oh my! Universal Studios Orlando is bursting at the seams with so many culinary delights. In addition, it has over 100 different dining locations within its three parks. 

 

Whether you are in the mood for a quick snack, a magical elixir, or a fancy surf and turf dinner, there are various delicious dining options to choose from inside the park. Follow these Universal Orlando tips and tricks to uncover some truly delicious options. 

Related Post: Top Attractions in Orlando

As certified grade A foodies, we can never pass up our favorite park noshes:

  • Traditional English Breakfast washed down with pumpkin juice from the Three Broomsticks
  • An ice-cold frozen Butterbeer from the famous Leaky Cauldron
  • A Krusty Burger combo piled high with secret sauce from Krusty Burger
  • Zesty spanakopita dip from Mediterranean eatery Mythos
  • NY inspired deli sandwiches from the Today Show Cafe
  • A double scoop of magical Butterbeer ice cream from Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour
  • A decadent chocolate artisanal milkshake from Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen
  • The infamous ‘dirt doughnut’ or maple bacon bar from Voodoo Doughnuts
External view of Harry Potter's Castle at Islands of Adventure in Orlando, Florida, USA
photo credit: Universal Orlando Resort via Facebook

What to Bring to Universal Studios Orlando

Nothing can throw a wrench into a day of vacation festivities faster than a pair of pinching shoes or an unexpected rainstorm. However, if you follow our Universal Orlando insider guide, we’ve ensured that all your bases are covered.

By consulting our Universal Orlando tips we have a non-negotiable list of must-have theme park items:

  • Portable phone and watch charger
  • Water bottles + small snacks
  • Any necessary medications
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Comfortable shoes
  • Poncho/raincoat/umbrella (weather dependent)
  • Swimsuit/change of clothes (if you plan on enjoying any water-based rides or splash zones)
  • Bandaids
  • Stroller (if required)
View of Diagon Alley at night with the dragon on top of Gringotts Bank breathing fire at Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida, USA
photo credit: Universal Orlando Resort via Facebook

Universal Studios Orlando Tips

No vacation to the Sunshine State is complete without a stop at Universal Studios Orlando. 

This renowned theme park has attracted over 11 million visitors a year and has created its galaxy of exhilarating magic, fantasy, and merriment. Whether you are a diehard Potter-head, a classic movie junkie, or just wish to cozy up to Kung Fu Panda, there are eons of one-of-a-kind adventures to be had at Universal Studios Orlando. 

 

Whether it’s Universal tips or a Universal Orlando itinerary, we have all your travel needs covered! Remember, Tripster has the best guaranteed online rates to help you save money and time.

So are you ready to experience your own ‘woah’ moment with Universal Studios Orlando? 

Begin planning your own epic Universal Studios Vacation today!

What Did We Miss With Our Universal Guide to Universal Orlando Resort?

We’d love any Universal Studios Orlando tips you can share! Anything we missed? Whether you are an expert visitor or have just taken one trip, share your stories, suggestions, and favorite universal insider guide to Universal Orlando in the comments below. We’d love any Universal Studios Orlando tips you can share!


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Written by Isis Maya Nissman

A New York native, Isis-Maya spent most of her professional life working in TV production until a vacation whisked her away to Central...


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