Let’s talk about the Universal Orlando Resort! This past week I had the opportunity to visit Universal Orlando and explore all it has to offer. Big thank you to Universal for hosting me! Universal Orlando has three incredible theme parks with so much to offer.
Park Tickets:
With three incredible theme parks to explore, you’ll want to have the flexibility and time to experience it all. I recommend a 3-day park-to-park ticket. This ticket allows you to hop across all three parks and ride the Hogwarts Express.
Universal Studios:
This park is where you can immerse yourself in the world of movies. Whether you want to become a Minion, join the Men in Black, visit the Simpson’s in Springfield, take a bicycle ride with E.T., or hang out with the Transformers, this park is sure to be a blast! Spend time in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Diagon Alley and hop the train to Hogsmeade on the Hogwarts Express. If you’re into scary, be sure to check out Halloween Horror Nights on select nights each September and October. *This is a special ticketed event not included in regular park admission.
Islands of Adventure:
This park is home to Seuss Landing, a Dr. Seuss-themed land that is just adorable and probably my favorite part of the park! Inside this park, you will also find Toon Lagoon, Jurassic Park, Marvel Super Hero Island, Hogsmeade, and the Lost Continent. Hogsmeade is where you will be able to get Butterbeer, visit Hogwarts Castle, and take a ride on Hogwarts Express.
Volcano Bay:
It’s a water theme park. Which is like a theme park with a whole lot of water. The coolest part is when you arrive at Volcano Bay, you’ll receive a TapuTapu to wear on your wrist. This is your key to having an amazing day. All the rides at Volcano Bay feature a Virtual Line. This changes how you wait – leaving you free to float, swim, splash, eat, shop, or just relax until it’s your time to ride rather than standing around waiting to ride. Your TapuTapu also activates interactive surprises, opens rental lockers, makes cash-free payments, and so much more. Whether you’re looking for thrills or chills, you’ll want to spend a day at Volcano Bay.
Where to Stay:
I highly recommend staying at one of the Premier resorts on property. One of the best benefits of staying at one of these resorts is the FREE Universal Express Unlimited for each person in your party for each day of your stay. These passes allow you to skip the regular lines and wait times at participating rides and attractions, these passes typically start at $89.99 when purchased separately. Additional benefits of staying at a Universal Orlando Resort Hotel are the bus transportation across the property, excellent locations, and Starbucks in the lobby.
Where to Eat:
Toothsome Chocolate Emporium at Universal CityWalk
Vivo at Universal CityWalk
Today Cafe at Universal Studios
Mel’s Drive-In at Universal Studios
Captain America Diner at Islands of Adventure
Blondie’s at Islands of Adventure
My Tips, Tricks, & Takeaways:
*There are rides and attractions for the whole family: from chill-seekers to thrill-seekers
*A Starbucks can be found inside CityWalk, Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and all resorts
*The best time to visit the parks is between 12 pm and 3 pm to avoid long wait times and crowds
*Save money and time by staying on property @ a premier hotel
*Get park-to-park tickets to be able to ride the Hogwarts Express
*Download the Universal Orlando Resort App to your phone to keep up with wait times, park hours, and plans
*Save on food by ordering sides or kid’s meals – theme parks always have enormous portions and you don’t want to waste your money by throwing away half your food. Kid’s meals and sides are significantly cheaper and still great portions.
*Stay hydrated with complimentary cups of water at all quick-service dining locations
*If you’re looking to avoid peak season crowds, I’d recommend visit during late January, February, September, and early December
Gracie Waldrop 