The Ultimate Universal Orlando Planning Guide (2026)

Welcome to the Universal Unlocked hub! This in-depth Universal Orlando planning guide will tell you everything you need to know while booking your Universal Orlando vacation.

It will also direct you out to other great, more specific Universal Unlocked guides that cover even more Universal vacation information. Fair warning, this one is long. But don’t worry. We’ve made it easy for you to jump around and find the content you’re looking for.

Want your single questions answered right now? Jump to our FAQ section. And find all our tips and tricks in our Unlocked Tips section.

Bookmark this page so you always have it handy. Use the collapsable Table of Contents and the jump links to navigate your way around. And make sure to check out the links to our other guides.

Part I tells you everything you need to know when you’re planning your Universal Orlando vacation. Part II tells you everything you need to know once you get there.

Whether you’re trying to figure out which park to visit first, what to pack, or how to skip the lines, we’ve got the insider info you need to experience Universal Orlando like a pro. So, let’s dive in—your adventure starts now!

Some links in this Universal Orlando planning guide are affiliate links. Read our Affiliate Disclosure here.

PART I: PLANNING YOUR TRIP

Where to Start: Planning Your Universal Orlando Vacation

When you start planning your vacation to Universal Orlando, the options can get overwhelming. We’re here to break it down for you.

What is Universal Orlando Resort?

RELATED: Read about the history and evolution of Universal Orlando Resort.

Universal Orlando Resort comprises five (5) entertainment installations: two (2) adjacent theme parks, Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, one (1) separate theme park, Universal’s EPIC Universe, one (1) water park, Volcano Bay, and one (1) entertainment complex featuring a mix of restaurants, shops, live music, nightlife, and attractions, CityWalk Orlando.

A big thing to understand about the parks—and we’ll likely repeat this both throughout this guide and in other Universal Unlocked guides—is that Universal Studios Florida’s major rides and attractions are primarily indoor, while most major Islands of Adventure rides and attractions are outdoor. This makes planning for the weather relatively simple. If it’s sunny you can explore both parks, and if it’s raining you can stay in Universal Studios Florida and still fully enjoy yourself.

EPIC Universe opened in 2025, and is a pretty solid 50/50 split of indoor and outdoor rides.

RELATED: Click here to find out everything you need to know about EPIC Universe, from rides and dining to hotels and history, at our EPIC Universe hub.

Rain is a big part of Florida weather, and more likely than not you will experience at least scattered showers during your stay. Just be patient because the weather can change on a dime.

Roller coasters and most kids’ attractions are outside and will close during inclement weather. Motion simulation and 3D/4D attractions are inside and will stay operational during inclement weather (but can often close temporarily for other reasons).

RELATED: Find out everything you need to know about every single 2026 Universal Orlando Resort ride and show in our complete 2026 Universal Orlando attraction list.

Current Properties

Universal Studios Florida is the original Universal Orlando Resort theme park. It opened in June 1990 and was simply called Universal Studios Florida. In 1999, Universal Studios Florida underwent a major expansion that included CityWalk Orlando, its second major installation, which opened in February 1999. CityWalk Orlando is similar both to its Universal Studios Hollywood counterpart and to Disney Springs.

Universal’s Islands of Adventure, the third installation and second full size theme park, opened in May 1999 next door to Universal Studios Florida. In September 1999, Universal Orlando opened its first on site hotel, Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, and became a resort.

Universal’s Volcano Bay is the water park associated with Universal Orlando Resort and opened much more recently, in May 2017. It is located approximately 10 minutes from Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, and is built around—it should come as no surprise—a volcano in the middle of the park called Krakatau. Krakatau houses some of the most intense water slides in the park.

In its biggest expansion since 1999, Universal Orlando opened a new theme park and entirely new campus in 2025. EPIC Universe, a full sized stand alone theme park, opened in May 2025. Universal also added three (3) hotels to its south campus, and one of them sits inside the EPIC Universe theme park. Jump to hotels. Jump to EPIC Universe.

Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure sit next to each other and across a river from CityWalk Orlando. The river that runs through the resort was added during the 1999 expansion and carries guests to and from four of the on site hotels via water taxi that departs from CityWalk. EPIC Universe headlines the new south campus, a ten (10) to fifteen (15) minute bus ride from the north (original) campus.

Major Expansion and Renovations: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ at Universal Orlando Resort is one of the most immersive theme park experiences ever created, bringing J.K. Rowling’s beloved books and films to life.

The project was first announced in 2007, following years of speculation and planning. Universal partnered with Warner Bros. and Rowling herself to ensure authenticity, resulting in painstakingly detailed recreations of iconic locations from the series.

The first phase, Hogsmeade, opened at Islands of Adventure on June 18, 2010, featuring Hogwarts Castle, the groundbreaking Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride, themed restaurants like the Three Broomsticks and the Hog’s Head, and themed shops like Dervish and Banges and Honeydukes.

The land was an instant success, drawing record-breaking crowds and revolutionizing theme park design with its interactive elements, including wand experiences that allow guests to cast spells throughout the village.

The overwhelming popularity of Hogsmeade led to an even more ambitious expansion—Diagon Alley, which opened in Universal Studios Florida on July 8, 2014. This new area included the Escape from Gringotts, an immersive thrill ride through the wizarding bank, as well as intricate recreations of Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes, the Leaky Cauldron, and Knockturn Alley.

A real-life Hogwarts Express was also introduced, allowing guests to travel between the two lands, further enhancing the experience. With the continued success of the Wizarding World, Universal has expanded its offerings with new entertainment, seasonal events, and ever-evolving merchandise, making it a must-visit destination for Harry Potter fans worldwide.

2025 Expansion: Universal’s EPIC Universe and the South Campus

In 2025, Universal Orlando Resort underwent another major expansion that includes one (1) new full size theme park and three (3) new on site hotels. The expansion is located on Universal Orlando’s new south campus. The original campus that houses the existing resort properties is now dubbed the north campus. They are located approximately fifteen (15) minutes away from each other.

The 2025 expansion includes two (2) new value property sister hotels and one (1) new Signature Collection hotel, located inside the new theme park. Stella Nova Resort opened on January 21, 2025, and Terra Luna Resort opened on March 25, 2025. Helios Grand Hotel opened April 16, 2025.

The centerpiece of the expansion is Universal EPIC Universe, a new full size immersive theme park that opened to the general public on May 22, 2025. This theme park breaks new ground in many areas of adventure park entertainment.

Expansion: 2026 and Beyond

Very exciting changes are ahead for all four (4) Universal Orlando theme parks.

Universal Studios Florida: Fast & Furious Changes

On January 20, 2026, Universal announced two (2) major attraction updates for 2027. First, Rip Ride Rockit, which shuttered in late 2025, will be replaced by the same Fast & Furious coaster that’s coming to Universal Studios Hollywood in 2026, right down to the name: Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift. Why not Orlando Drift? Or Miami Drift? No one knows.

And because Universal Studios Florida will be getting a new (and likely highly improved) Fast & Furious experience, the current and long-maligned experience, Fast & Furious – Supercharged, located in the San Francisco area of Universal Studios Florida, will close when the new ride opens. No word yet on what will replace that attraction after it closes in 2027, but frankly anything will be an improvement.

Islands of Adventure: Major Changes

The Lost Continent

Universal has officially filed permits to demolish most of the Lost Continent area of Islands of Adventure. Attractions in this area have slowly closed over the years. Edifices and restaurants are most of what remains. There is no confirmation about which parts of the land will be demoed. But we would be shocked if Mythos doesn’t survive the purge. It’s one of the most popular theme park restaurants in the world. Our guess is they will re-theme it but keep details largely the same.

The company behind two (2) top coasters at Universal Orlando (Jurassic World VelociCoaster and Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure), Intamin, Ltd., is listed as the grantee on a new permit filed with Orange County, Florida for development in the Lost Continent area of the theme park. Watch this space and our news page for more details as they emerge.

Jurassic Park

In addition to the major Lost Continent changes, a nearly eleven (11) month closure of Jurassic Park River Adventure, the long running water ride in the Jurassic Park area of Islands of Adventure, has begun. The ride will be closed from January 5, 2026, through November 19, 2026.

The length of the closure suggests a massive refurbishment of the ride, something fans have been asking for quite loudly. As with any big update, this suggests that Universal has faith in the attraction, and fans should not expect a permanent closure anytime soon. (Universal last did a long term refurbishment with the Revenge of the Mummy attraction at Universal Studios Florida in 2022.) Click here to read our thoughts on Jurassic Park River Adventure.

EPIC Universe Continues to Expand

Universal has obtained new permits confirming that a new major attraction is in the works at EPIC Universe. Eagle-eyed fans are all but 100% sure the new expansion is going to be a new ride in the Wizarding World area of EPIC Universe. We’ll report on confirmed details as they are released. Get all our EPIC Universe coverage here.

Major Volcano Bay Updates

Universal has announced an extended refurbishment closure for Volcano Bay that will stretch from late 2026 into early 2027. This is in addition to the 2025 removal of the TapuTapu tech. Watch this space for more updates.

On Site Hotels

There are eleven (11) on site hotels: three (3) premier, two (2) preferred, and six (6) budget options. We’ll break down what these classes mean and why you should absolutely stay at an on site hotel later in this guide. Or you can jump there now.

Booking Your Universal Orlando Vacation

Official Website

The official Universal Orlando Resort website will be your most important tool in familiarizing yourself with the resort, tickets, packages, hotels, and all the rides and attractions. (Well that and Universal Unlocked!) If you choose to, you can do everything at the official website, including booking every part of your trip.

There are also plenty of other websites where you can book various parts of your trip. Jump to Travel Resources.

How much time should you spend at Universal Orlando?

We are, quite consistently, asked “how many days is the correct number of days to spend at Universal Orlando Resort.” Probably more than any other question. But, frankly, there is no right answer.

Any time you can spend at Universal Orlando will be time well spent, and there is always a way to organize your time into a good trip, whether you’re there for a day or for two (2) weeks. And yes, we have done the latter!

If you have the time and are a first time visitor to Universal Orlando, our main recommendation would be the more time the better. Going for 5–7 days has a lot of benefits. Other than the obvious—doing more stuff—you can spend less time on your feet at the parks each day and more time relaxing. The hotels and CityWalk offer myriad activities.

Take time to sit down and enjoy a good meal (there are tons!) or explore the different on site hotels. Or stay at your own hotel for a day and enjoy the hotels and the pools. Or go to Disney World or Sea World for the day. The options are endless, basically.

UNLOCKED TIP: You can—and should—hotel hop. Every hotel is its own highly immersive experience worth checking out.

Having said that, if you only have a weekend or a day to visit the parks, it is still so worth it, and you will have an incredible time!

The only other advice we’ll offer in the “how much time” realm is this. Correlate how many days you spend at the resort with whether you choose to upgrade the standard tickets. If you will have VIP passes or the Universal Express Pass, you can get by on fewer days and still accomplish a lot. If you’re going with the standard tickets, more days are better.

When should you visit Universal Orlando?

Similar to how much time to spend in the parks, when to visit is also very much a personal choice. If you don’t mind crowds or want to indulge in the VIP experience, the answer is any time! The days we would directly caution against (again, unless hullabaloo is just your jam!) are literal holidates. Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Memorial Day, Thanksgiving Day, Halloween, etc.

We also avoid March, June, and July like the plague because of all the different typical school breaks. Plus June, July, and August are just miserably hot. We went in July 2020 when they were requiring masking at all times, and you haven’t lived until you’ve walked around for ten (10) hours in the July Florida heat in a mask. 🥵

However, if hullabaloo is, in fact, not your jam, we can point you to a few times during the year when the parks at least moderately slow down. The annual period with the absolute smallest crowds is the end of August and the first half of September, right when the kiddos have all gone back to school.

You used to be able to count on basically all of September for this, but as they have expanded Halloween Horror Nights to now start at the end of August, the HHN crowds have seeped earlier into September.

The beginning of the year, after the New Years crowds have dispersed, will also have some moderate days.

November and December are, of course, very popular because of the resort-wide holiday decor, tours, events, etc. However, for whatever reason, the first week in December is the time to find smaller crowds during the holidays. We went in 2024 and every part of it was very manageable, crowd-wise. And the weather in December is phenomenal.

RELATED: Click here to read our 2025 Universal Orlando Holiday Guide.

Crowd calendars are extremely useful tools when determining the best time for your group to travel to Universal Orlando Resort. The Undercover Tourist has an EPIC one (pun intended).

We grade the predicted crowds against actual crowd experience for each day of our trips, and the Undercover Tourist crowd calendar has the highest success rate. It is our favorite and the one we rely on almost exclusively trip after trip.

Travel to and around Orlando and Universal Orlando Resort: A Transportation Guide

Transportation to Orlando

By Plane

There are two (2) international airports that serve the city of Orlando. Orlando International Airport (designation MCO, flymco.com) is one of the largest and busiest airports in the United States (as Orlando is a global travel destination). MCO services most major global airlines and is the primary gateway for Central Florida travelers. It is located approximately 25 minutes from the resort by car.

Orlando Sanford International Airport (designation SFB, flysfb.com) is a much smaller airport that services two airlines: Sun Country Airlines and Allegiant Airlines. SFB is a less busy alternative to MCO, if you want or are able to fly one of the two airlines that uses SFB. It is located approximately 45 minutes from the resort by car.

By Train

Two train lines service Orlando: Amtrak and Brightline.

Amtrak is the national passenger railroad service in the United States, providing intercity train travel across forty-six (46) states and parts of Canada. Amtrak serves Orlando through its Orlando Station (ORL), located at 1400 Sligh Boulevard (google maps link), near downtown Orlando. The station is approximately 20 minutes from the resort by car.

The Orlando Amtrak Station is a hub for two (2) major routes:

The Silver Star route connects New York City to Miami, passing through cities like Washington, D.C., Raleigh, and Tampa. The Silver Meteor runs a similar route to the Silver Star but skips Tampa for a faster connection between New York City and Miami.

While Amtrak offers convenient rail service throughout the United States, the website is, frankly, a nightmare. When you get to the website, it’s best to already know what you’re going for, because it is not user friendly or intuitive. We always start with the Amtrak System Map, which, at the very least, can get you started with rough options from your point of origin to your destination.

Brightline (our favorite way to get to Orlando!) is a high-speed rail service in Florida that connects major cities, offering fast, modern, and eco-friendly train travel.

Initially launched in 2018, it operates between Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach, with recent expansions to Orlando (in 2023) and planned extensions to Tampa. Brightline trains feature comfortable seating, onboard amenities, and convenient downtown station locations, catering to both leisure and business travelers.

Brightline stations and trains are sleek, modern, and high tech. And unlike Amtrak, the Brightline user experience—on both the website and the app—is amazing.

It is the first privately funded high-speed rail system in the U.S. in decades. The Brightline Orlando Station is connected to MCO and is also approximately 25 minutes from the resort by car.

By Bus

Traveling to Orlando by bus is a convenient and affordable option, with several companies offering services to the city.

Lynx Central Station: Many regional and local buses operate here, connecting travelers to Central Florida destinations.

UNLOCKED TIP: Some bus companies also offer direct service to or from popular attractions like Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando.

• Greyhound is one of the largest intercity bus services in the United States, connecting Orlando with cities across the country. Its station is located at 555 N John Young Parkway, Orlando, FL 32805 (near downtown Orlando). It is located approximately 20 minutes from the resort by car.
• FlixBus is a budget-friendly, modern bus service with routes connecting Orlando to Miami, Jacksonville, and more. This bus line stops at Orlando International Airport (MCO), as well as select pick up and drop off points around Walt Disney World.
• RedCoach is a luxury bus service with reclining seats, Wi-Fi, and power outlets, connecting Orlando to cities like Miami, Gainesville, and Tallahassee. Its station is located at 1777 McCoy Road, Orlando, FL 32809 (near Orlando International Airport).

By Car

Making your way to Florida in the family car, full to brimming with everyone’s luggage, is a time honored American tradition. And who are we to buck tradition?

Transportation to and from Universal Orlando Resort

Once you arrive in Orlando, make your way to the resort! If you decided to BYOV (bring your own vehicle), it’s easy … you enter it into your map app and drive there. Each on site hotel, and CityWalk as well, has both self and valet parking. Jump to hotel arrival.

If you did not drive, however, and instead came by plane, train, or bus, there are three (3) main ways to get to Universal Orlando Resort.

By Shuttle

If you book a vacation package through Universal Orlando Resort’s official website, and book an on site hotel, you will have the option to add on the official resort shuttle service for $39 round trip for adults and $29 for kids (ages 3 to 9). If you book an off site hotel, there is still a shuttle service option, but it’s a different one that we at Universal Unlocked haven’t used.

We’re going to be honest. The shuttle service is overly complicated to find at the airport and overly complicated to catch from your hotel, and it doesn’t save you any money. Keep reading for a little math on this subject. (We apologize for making you read about math when you’re trying to go on vacation, but we’re just trying to help. Promise!)

By Car

Ride Share: MCO and the Brightline Orlando Station, like most travel hubs in 2026, have a designated ride share area that is both efficient and easy to locate. SFB and the Amtrak Orlando Station also have a designated ride share area, but we cannot speak to whether it is easy to locate or efficient because—full disclosure—we’ve never been to either. The reverse is also true when you’re leaving your hotel to return to the airport.

Taxi: Before Uber, there were things called taxis. Here’s a primer if this fact confuses or surprises you.

Rental Car: Many large rental car companies serve both MCO and SFB customers, including Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and Hertz. These companies offer standard car rental service, including airport shuttle service.

TURO: A peer-to-peer car rental service that allows individuals to rent cars directly from car owners. Over time, many car owners have gone into the TURO business specifically, so that at times you are renting from a car company similar to Avis or Enterprise, but the experience is much better.

TURO offers a wide range of vehicles, from everyday cars to luxury, sports, and unique models, giving you more options than traditional rental services.

TURO is often more affordable than traditional rental companies, with the ability to choose different pricing options depending on the vehicle and rental duration. Cars can be delivered directly to your location (like an airport or hotel), saving time and effort compared to picking up at a rental office.

The TURO platform (both turo.com and the app) is user friendly, with the ability to browse, compare, and book cars directly. All communication with the host also goes through the app.

Mears Transportation: A well known transportation company based in Orlando, Florida. It provides a variety of ground transportation services, including shuttle services, private car services, taxi services, charter services, and theme park transportation.

You can book Mears Transportation services in advance through their website or their app, or access their taxis and shuttles at designated locations in Orlando. It’s a reliable and popular option for tourists visiting the city.

Any of these options will drop you directly at your on site hotel, off site hotel, or the main resort drop off at CityWalk Orlando.

A couple notes on getting from your chosen travel hub to Universal Orlando:

We don’t recommend renting a car (from TURO or a traditional service) unless you have firm plans to venture out from Universal Orlando Resort and explore the Orlando area (or if you plan to visit other theme parks in the area and prefer to drive). Universal Orlando is a fully immersive, self-contained theme park resort that you do not need to leave during your stay.

We also don’t recommend the official shuttle. Now for the math we warned you about earlier. We’ll use a common make up: a family of 5 (2 adults, 3 kids over 3). It would cost this family $165 to add the shuttle service to their vacation package (29*3 + 39*2). An UberXL (that will seat a family of 6) from MCO to UOR is roughly $130 round trip. It costs more money and it’s more of a hassle to take the UOR shuttle.

In summary, just take an Uber to and from MCO.

Transportation in and around Universal Orlando Resort

On Site Hotels

While you are staying on property, Universal Orlando Resort offers several convenient options for getting around. Jump to on site hotels.

Water Taxi: Four (4) on site hotels sit along the river that runs through the resort and are serviced by the resort water taxis. They dock at CityWalk and each hotel, running from approximately 7:30am to 2am each day. The water taxis run continuously throughout the day but will shut down during inclement weather.

Resort Bus: The bus system at Universal Orlando runs routes from approximately 7am to 2am, offering convenient transportation between all on site hotels and each of the CityWalk depot and the Volcano Bay depot.

In 2025, new electric buses began routes to and from the north and south campuses to ferry guests between their on site hotel or the CityWalk depot and EPIC Universe.

Each bus is clearly marked with its destination, and hotel staff are available to assist if needed. Guests should check the specific schedule at their hotel lobby or front desk for exact pick up times, as these can vary slightly. Riding the bus is free for hotel guests, and no reservations are required. It’s a hassle free way to get to the parks and around the resort.

Walking Path: If you prefer not to take the bus, or the water taxis are down, or you just like walking, there is a walking path along the river to and from every on site hotel that sits along the river to Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and CityWalk.

UNLOCKED TIP: While the Aventura Hotel is not located along the river, it is a stone’s throw from Sapphire Falls Resort, which is. So if you add on 3 to 5 minutes, it actually is on the walking path. Same goes for Cabana Bay Beach Resort, but add 5 to 10 minutes.

Volcano Bay: The water taxis do not run through or to the water park, Volcano Bay. And there are no walking paths to the theme parks. The only transport to and from the on site hotels is the resort bus system. The major exception to this is the walking path that takes you directly from Cabana Bay Beach Resort to a dedicated Volcano Bay entrance for Cabana Bay guests.

Off Site Hotels

Many off site hotels in Orlando offer shuttle services to and from Universal Orlando Resort. These shuttles are typically complimentary and operate on a scheduled basis. However, the availability, frequency, and reservation requirements can vary depending on the hotel.

Note that while these hotels offer shuttle services, they may require reservations, and seating can be limited. Additionally, some shuttles operate only at specific times, so it’s advisable to check the schedule and plan accordingly.

For hotels that do not provide shuttle services, or if the shuttle schedules are not convenient, you can always take the traditional travel options, including the ones mentioned above: ride share, taxi, and Mears.

Universal Orlando Tickets and Passes

Universal Orlando offers a variety of ticket options designed to fit every need and preference. This section discusses tickets only options. Jump to info on booking vacation packages. We’ve listed the main types of tickets available below, or you can access them directly at the official site:

Single-Park Tickets

1-Park Ticket: This allows entry to one (1) of the four (4) Universal Orlando theme parks—Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure, Universal’s EPIC Universe, or Universal’s Volcano Bay—for a single day. When you select the date of you’re ticket, you will see that prices vary everyday. But general 2026 pricing is as follows. Universal Studios/Islands of Adventure: $160 per day. EPIC Universe: $180 per day. Volcano Bay: $80 per day.

Park-to-Park Tickets

2-Park Park-to-Park Ticket: Allows entry to both Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure on the same day. You can hop between the two parks at any time. General 2026 pricing: $200 per day.

3-Park Park-to-Park Ticket: In 2026, the 3-park Universal Orlando ticket option allows you to move freely each day among all three (3) major theme parks at the resort: Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and EPIC Universe. This is a big change because before 2026, the 3-park park-to-park ticket was defined as a Universal Studios Florida-Islands of Adventure-Volcano Bay ticket.

However, you must purchase a 3-day (or longer) ticket to get a 3-park park-to-park ticket. If you select a 1-day or 2-day ticket, your EPIC Universe experience will still be a separate day. General 2026 pricing: $175 per day.

4-Park Park-to-Park Ticket: If you purchase a 3-day (or longer) park-to-park ticket, you can now select the 4-park option, which includes all four (4) Universal Orlando theme parks: Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure, Universal’s EPIC Universe, and Universal’s Vocano Bay water park. General 2026 pricing: $180.

UNLOCKED TIP: You must buy a park-to-park ticket between (at minimum) Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure if you want access to the Hogwarts Express train that travels between the Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade lands of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Single Day and Multi-Day Tickets

If you are visiting the parks for a single day, you can do it via any of the following:

• 1-Park Ticket: You can purchase a single park ticket for a single day to one of Universal Studios Florida or Islands of Adventure.
• Park-to-Park Ticket: You can purchase a ticket at that will allow you to visit Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure on the same single day.
• 3-Park and 4-Park Tickets: This is not an option for a single day. If you want to visit Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and EPIC Universe in one day, you can buy one 2-park ticket that allows you to move between Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, but you must also purchase a separate ticket for entry to EPIC Universe on that same day. Same goes for the 4-park ticket and Volcano Bay.

UNLOCKED TIP: Volcano Bay will close for an extended refurbishment from October 26, 2026, through March 24, 2027, and these 4-park tickets will not be available during that time. Keep up with other important Universal updates on our news page.

If you are visiting the parks for multiple days, you can do it via any of the following:

• Multi-day, one park per day: You can purchase a ticket for any number of days that allows you entry into one park each day. Split time among all four (4) or just stick with your favorite. No judging here.
• Multi-day, multiple parks per day: You can purchase a ticket for two (2) or more days that allows you to move freely between Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, with the 2-park park-to-park ticket. You can purchase a ticket for three (3) or more days that allows you to move freely among Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, EPIC Universe and Volcano Bay, with the 3-park or 4-park park-to-park ticket.

UNLOCKED TIP: There are almost always promotional tickets available where you pay for (usually) two (2) days and get two (2) or three (3) days free. Look for them before you pay for four (4) or five (5) days!

Annual Passes

Universal Orlando offers several levels of annual passes with varying benefits. These typically include unlimited visits for one year, plus perks like an exclusive passholder entrance, priority access to certain attractions and EPIC Universe, private passholder lounge access, exclusive passholder merchandise, and discounts on food, merchandise, and, most importantly, on site hotel rooms.

An Annual Pass for One Trip?

Before 2026, we could say with confidence that if you book a trip lasting three (3) days or longer, getting a seasonal pass (lowest tier) is a must. For example, a 3-day park-to-park ticket is about $450 per person, and a seasonal pass is $425 for the entire year. Plus you get insane hotel room discounts. It’s a no brainer. However, EPIC Universe had to come in and ruin that logic … at least for 2026.

Let me explain. Before 2025, there was no EPIC Universe and this logic still held because a 3-day park-to-park ticket included the same parks as the seasonal pass: Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. When EPIC Universe opened in 2026, this was still true because EPIC Universe was always separately ticketed and never included in a park-to-park ticket. Read: you were paying for EPIC Universe separately no matter what kind of ticket or pass you had.

For 2026, the park-to-park tickets now include EPIC Universe, but the annual passes don’t. Meaning, it is currently way cheaper to buy regular tickets that include EPIC Universe than to buy a seasonal pass and still have to buy EPIC Universe tickets on top of that.

At some point they will start including EPIC Universe as an annual pass park, and we will update this space when they do. (Experts, including Universal Unlocked, predict it to be sometime in late 2026.) But Universal is going to see a monster drop in annual pass sales until they do. Just saying.

We’ve listed a short summary of annual passes and their benefits below. Click here to see the complete list of benefits at the official site.

UNLOCKED TIP: All annual passes include park-to-park admission to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. If you’ve been paying attention, you know this means you can ride the Hogwarts Express with any level annual pass.

Seasonal Pass

• Cost: $425
• Blockout dates: ✅

Seasonal is the cheapest pass and comes with the fewest benefits. Notably absent are free self parking, food and merch discounts, and early park admission. (Only the discount truly counts though because we know you’re going to stay on site just like Universal Unlocked taught you.)

UNLOCKED TIP: The hotel room discount is the same at all tiers of annual passes. Even though they haven’t added EPIC Universe to the annual pass yet, it’s still worth it for at least one (1) member of your party to buy a pass solely for the hotel room discount.

Power Pass

• Cost: $475
• Blockout dates: ✅

Power Pass, the second tier, still has blockout dates but does add 50% off self parking and flexpay options.

Preferred Pass

• Cost: $630
• Blockout dates: ❌

The Preferred Pass is an elite tier pass. Other than no blockout dates, it also includes a number of benefits the first two don’t, such as food and merch discounts, free self parking, 50% discount on prime and valet parking, and early park admission (with blockout dates).

Premier Pass

• Cost: $905
• Blockout dates: ❌

The Premier Pass is the highest tier option and comes with notably more benefits than any other annual pass. These include early park admission (no blockout dates), free valet and prime parking, a complimentary Halloween Horror Nights ticket, and Universal Express Pass Unlimited access after 4PM.

Our annual pass advice in summary: always price out both the day ticket and annual pass options, including all perks of that pass, to see which is cheaper for your specific trip.

Florida Resident Discounts

Universal Orlando Resort offers access to a number of select benefits available only to Florida residents.

Special Event Tickets

Halloween Horror Nights: Always remember that Halloween Horror Nights (or HHN to the initiated), which takes place at Universal Studios Florida beginning at 6PM nightly during September and October, requires a separate admission ticket.

Christmas holidays: Many events and attractions occurring during the holidays across the Universal Orlando Resort are included in your main admission ticket, including the Macy’s Holiday Parade. Separately ticketed events include, but are not limited to, the Grinch Meet and Greet, and the Universal Holiday Tour.

RELATED: Click here to read our complete 2025 guide to Christmas at the parks.

Mardi Gras: Mardi Gras celebrations take place during February and March and are included in your main park admission ticket.

Butterbeer season: From March to May each year, Universal Orlando celebrates butterbeer season at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. You can find special, limited edition food, drink, and merch.

RELATED: Stay up to date on all Universal Orlando special events and major dates.

VIP Experience

This is a guided tour that offers exclusive experiences, front-of-the-line access to rides, and other perks like reserved seating for shows. The tour must be separately purchased and requires a main admission ticket. This type of ticket is ideal for those seeking a more luxurious and streamlined park experience. Especially if you only have limited time at the parks. Pricing starts at $310. Explore the VIP Experience.

Universal Express Pass

The Universal Orlando Express Pass is a skip-the-line upgrade that allows guests to bypass the regular standby lines at participating attractions in Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. It is not valid at Volcano Bay.

RELATED: Don’t miss our list of every ride at Universal Orlando that has express pass access.

An express pass can speed up your wait times significantly, allowing you to experience more attractions. There are two types of express passes:

• Universal Express Pass: Skip the regular lines once per ride at participating attractions. (pricing varies, $90–$300 per day)
• Universal Express Pass Unlimited: Skip the regular lines an unlimited number of times at participating attractions. Use it all day, everyday. (pricing varies, $120–$330 per day)

Any express pass must be purchased in addition to your park ticket, If you’re staying at a premier level on site hotel, the Universal Express Pass Unlimited is included. Jump to on site hotel benefits.

NOTE: Universal Orlando does not have a cancellation policy. All tickets are non-refundable once purchased. If a weather event prevents you from getting to Orlando, the ticket office may work with you to rebook your vacation package.

On Site Hotels

First things first. Whether you’re on a budget or not, we strenuously recommend staying on site. The benefits are just too good not to. There is a hotel for every budget, we promise! (Look for a ❤️ beside Universal Unlocked favorites!)

UNLOCKED TIP: A huge benefit of annual passes is the sizable discount for on site hotel rooms. Jump back up to review all the benefits of annual passes and why we highly recommend getting one for at least one (1) member of your vacation party.

Exclusive On Site Hotel Benefits

Every on site hotel includes the following main tier exclusive benefits:

•  Early Park Admission: Access to select attractions at Universal Orlando theme parks up to an hour early with valid theme park admission.
• Complimentary Transportation: Shuttle buses and/or water taxis provide convenient access to all Universal Orlando theme parks and Universal CityWalk.
• Resort-Wide Charging Privileges: Guests can use their room key for purchases throughout Universal Orlando Resort.
• Universal Orlando Store: Every on site hotel also has a Universal Orlando merch shop. They’re great for picking up last minute souvenirs before you catch your flight, or grabbing last minute necessities before you go to the parks.
• Universal Orlando Vacation Planning Center: Every on site hotel has their own on site Universal Planning Center where you can pick up your park tickets from your vacation package and purchase any other Universal Orlando tickets and passes, or make any reservations, you need.
• Complimentary Merchandise Delivery: Have purchases from any and all Universal Orlando Resort stores delivered directly to your hotel room. You can shop at any time during you trip and not worry about lugging your merch around. (Easily our personal favorite Universal Orlando on site feature!)

UNLOCKED TIP: Packages will usually show up in your room the day after your purchase. Make sure you leave enough time for your stuff to reach your suitcase before your departure.

Premier level on site hotels also include the following premier tier exclusive benefits:

• Universal Express Pass Unlimited: Skip the lines every time with unlimited use of the Universal Express Pass.

UNLOCKED TIP: The Universal Express Pass Unlimited is valued anywhere from $120–$330 per day. At certain times this can be the entire price of your stay per night. Totally worth it.

• Water Taxi Service: Hop on this convenient river boat located at your hotel’s dock and enjoy a relaxing ride to Universal Orlando theme parks and Universal CityWalk.

UNLOCKED TIP: You do not have to show proof that you’re a guest of a specific hotel—or any on site hotel—to traverse Universal Orlando via the river. Hop on at CityWalk and explore any of the four (4) hotels along the scenic waterway. (Six (6) if you count Aventura and Cabana Bay, and we think you should.)

• Priority Seating at Resort Restaurants: show your room key at restaurants across the resort and skip the walk-in guest line.

On Site Hotel Easy Reference Chart

This is an easy to reference chart that identifies the main characteristics of each on site property.

NOTE: For the record, every on site hotel is appropriate for kids. E.g., each hotel in the Signature Collection has kid-themed suites. A ❌ under kid-oriented just means that the hotel is not specifically geared toward families. But you’ll find that most are.

UNLOCKED TIP: You can—and should—hotel hop. Every hotel is its own highly themed immersive experience worth checking out.

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel ❤️ ❤️

RELATED: Click here to read our full 2026 Portofino Bay Hotel review and guide.

Opened in 1999, Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando Resort offers guests a luxurious escape inspired by the charm and romance of Italy’s seaside village of Portofino. With its charming piazzas, cobblestone streets, and stunning harbor, you will be instantly transported halfway around the world.

This hotel is appropriate for a wide range of ages, but it is the most isolated and quiet, which makes Universal Orlando Resort’s most luxurious hotel particularly attractive to vacationing adults.

The accommodations feature spacious rooms (practically giant, compared to any other on site hotel) and suites with elegant furnishings and stunning views.

The amenities feature eight (8) on site restaurants, 24-hour room service, on site shopping, three (3) pools, water taxi service to Universal Orlando theme parks, a fitness center, a business center, a Universal Vacation Planning Center, a video game arcade, and nightly live musical performances on the harbor piazza.

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel is part of the Signature Collection and includes every available on site hotel exclusive benefit.

Explore Loews Portofino Bay Hotel.

Hard Rock Hotel Orlando

Opened in 2001, Hard Rock Hotel Orlando offers a lively and immersive experience that caters to visitors of all ages, though it particularly resonates with families and music lovers. Its rock ‘n’ roll theme is evident throughout the hotel, from the impressive collection of music memorabilia to the energetic atmosphere that defines every Hard Rock Hotel’s unique vibe.

The accommodations feature recently renovated spacious rooms and suites adorned with music-inspired décor, providing modern amenities and comfort for all guests.

The amenities feature five (5) on site restaurants, 24-hour room service, on site shopping, a resort style pool (complete with a sand beach, water slides, and cabanas for rent), water taxi service to Universal Orlando theme parks, a fitness center, a business center, a Universal Vacation Planning Center, a video game arcade, and complimentary in-room yoga.

Hard Rock Hotel Orlando is part of the Signature Collection and includes every available on site hotel exclusive benefit.

Explore Hard Rock Hotel Orlando.

Loews Royal Pacific Resort

Opened in 2002, Loews Royal Pacific Resort’s enchanting South Seas theme immerses guests in a lush, tropical paradise, providing a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The resort is appropriate for all ages.

The accommodations feature rooms and suites with island-inspired décor, providing modern amenities and comfort for all guests.

UNLOCKED TIP: Royal Pacific is the hotel level where the guest rooms get significantly smaller than the Hard Rock and Portofino Bay guest rooms.

The amenities feature five (5) on site restaurants, 24-hour room service, on site shopping, a resort style pool, water taxi service to Universal Orlando theme parks, a fitness center, a business center, a Universal Vacation Planning Center, and a video game arcade.

Loews Royal Pacific Resort is part of the Signature Collection and includes every available on site hotel exclusive benefit.

Explore Loews Royal Pacific Resort.

Universal Helios Grand Hotel (South Campus)

RELATED: Click here to read our full 2026 Helios Grand Hotel review and guide.

Opened on April 16, 2025, Universal Helios Grand Hotel is located inside Universal EPIC Universe. It offers guests a Mediterranean-inspired retreat with direct access to the theme park.

The accommodations feature 500 rooms and 35 suites, including family suites themed to “How to Train Your Dragon.” Each room is equipped with tablets to control room elements such as drapes, lights, and thermostat.

The amenities at Helios Grand Hotel feature four (4) on site restaurants (including a top floor restaurant and bar with 360 degree views), on site shopping, a resort style pool, a fitness center, a business center, a Universal Vacation Planning Center, a video game arcade, and an exclusive EPIC Universe entrance for hotel guests.

Universal Helios Grand Hotel is part of the Signature Collection but includes only the main tier on site hotel exclusive benefits.

Explore Universal Helios Grand Hotel.

Loews Sapphire Falls Resort ❤️

Opened in 2016, Loews Sapphire Falls Resort is a Caribbean-inspired resort that provides a vibrant and tropical atmosphere that appeals to families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

 The accommodations feature 1,000 guest rooms, including 83 suites, all designed with a tropical island theme.

The amenities feature four (4) on site restaurants, 24-hour room service, on site shopping, a resort style pool (complete with white sand beach, hot tub, zero entry, and water slide), water taxi service to Universal Orlando theme parks, a fitness center, a business center, a Universal Vacation Planning Center, and a video game arcade.

UNLOCKED TIP: While it is true that the celiac safe options across Universal Orlando Resort are excellent, we are particularly fond of the dietary accommodations at Sapphire Falls.

Loews Sapphire Falls Resort is part of the Signature Collection and includes all on site hotel exclusive benefits except the Universal Express Pass Unlimited and restaurant priority seating.

Explore Loews Sapphire Falls Resort.

Stella Nova Resort (South Campus)

Opened on January 21, 2025, Universal Stella Nova Resort offers guests a cosmically inspired retreat.

The accommodations feature 750 standard rooms, providing a comfortable and modern stay for all guests.

The amenities at Stella Nova Resort feature three (3) on site restaurants, pizza delivery service, on site shopping, a large resort style pool, a fitness center, a business center, a Universal Vacation Planning Center, and a video game arcade.

Universal Stella Nova Resort is a Prime Value property and includes only the main tier on site hotel exclusive benefits, but does include a dedicated walking path to EPIC Universe.

Explore Universal Stella Nova Resort.

Universal Terra Luna Resort (South Campus)

Opened on March 25, 2025, Universal Terra Luna Resort offers guests a unique blend of adventure and relaxation, inspired by the thrill of exploration and discovery.

The accommodations feature 750 standard rooms, providing a comfortable retreat after a day of excitement at the parks.

The amenities at Terra Luna Resort feature three (3) on site restaurants, pizza delivery service, on site shopping, a zero entry resort style pool, a fitness center, a business center, a Universal Vacation Planning Center, and a video game arcade.

Universal Terra Luna Resort is a Prime Value property and includes only the main tier on site hotel exclusive benefits.

Explore Universal Terra Luna Resort.

Aventura Hotel

Opened in 2018, Aventura Hotel features a modern and sleek design with a hint of futuristic flair.

The accommodations feature a sleek, modern design with floor-to-ceiling windows, iPad-controlled amenities, and minimalist décor.

The amenities feature five (5) on site restaurants (including a breathtaking rooftop bar), on site shopping, a resort style pool, a virtual reality video game arcade, a fitness center, a business center, a Universal Vacation Planning Center, and a walking path to the Volcano Bay water park.

The Aventura Hotel is a Prime Value property and includes only the main tier on site hotel exclusive benefits.

UNLOCKED TIP: While Aventura does not include water taxi service, Sapphire Falls, which does, is right next door on the same property. (Remember that you don’t have to be a guest at the hotel to ride their water taxi.)

Explore Aventura Hotel.

Cabana Bay Beach Resort ❤️

Opened in 2014, the Cabana Bay Beach Resort at Universal Orlando is a fun and vibrant experience for visitors of all ages. The resort captures a retro 1950s and 1960s vibe with bright colors and vintage design elements, making it particularly enjoyable for families with children, as well as adults who appreciate a nostalgic atmosphere.

 The accommodations range from standard rooms to spacious family suites, providing comfortable options for different group sizes.

The amenities feature five (5) on site restaurants, pizza delivery service, on site shopping, two (2) large pools (complete with sand beaches, a lazy river, and water slides), a bowling alley, a video game arcade, a fitness center, a business center, a Universal Vacation Planning Center, and a dedicated walking path to the Volcano Bay water park (complete with an exclusive Cabana Bay guest entrance).

The Cabana Bay Beach Resort is a Value property and includes only the main tier on site hotel exclusive benefits.

UNLOCKED TIP: While Cabana Bay does not include water taxi service, it’s a five (5) minute walk to Sapphire Falls, which does. (Remember that you don’t have to be a guest at the hotel to ride their water taxi.)

Explore the Universal Cabana Bay Beach Resort.

Endless Summer Resorts: Surfside Inn and Suites & Dockside Inn and Suites ❤️

Universal’s Endless Summer Resort comprises two hotels—Surfside Inn and Suites (opened 2019) and Dockside Inn and Suites (opened 2020)—offering guests a relaxed, beach-inspired atmosphere with modern amenities.

The accommodations feature standard rooms and spacious two-bedroom suites, ideal for families seeking extra space.

The amenities at Surfside Inn and Suites feature three (3) on site restaurants, pizza delivery service, on site shopping, a zero entry resort style pool, a fitness center, a business center, a Universal Vacation Planning Center, and a video game arcade.

The amenities at Dockside Inn and Suites feature five (5) on site restaurants, pizza delivery service, on site shopping, two (2) large resort style pools (complete with sandy beaches), a fitness center, a business center, a Universal Vacation Planning Center, and a video game arcade.

UNLOCKED TIP: Despite having the most amenities between the two, Dockside is the consistently cheaper option. Many people prefer the quieter nature of Surfside.

The Endless Summer Resorts are Value properties and include only the main tier on site hotel exclusive benefits.

Explore Dockside Inn and Suites and Surfside Inn and Suites.

Universal Orlando Vacation Packages

Once you’ve used the tools and information in the first part of this Universal Orlando planning guide, you’ll be ready to book your vacation package on the official Universal Orlando website.

The package booking interface is very intuitive and user friendly. Start by selecting your on site hotel, then your tickets, then your extras, seamlessly. You can book your hotel package with your park tickets, and you can use the official site to book a flight and hotel package if you want.

At Universal Unlocked we prefer to book our flights separately from our vacation packages because we find it more efficient, but we also don’t judge! So you do you.

It probably helps that we’re crazy about WayAway. If you’ve searched for your perfect flight on WayAway, you get it. If you haven’t, we can’t recommend it enough. One of the reasons we love this flight aggregator is the all class search function. Unlike other flight aggregators, it doesn’t assume the deal you want is in economy.

At any given time, there will be several package options on the vacation packages page. Packages include dining cards, specific Wizarding World of Harry Potter extras, and now specific EPIC Universe extras.

You can pay for your vacation all at once, or you can look at payment plan options. And the official vacation packages always include an option to add cancellation protection.

There are many other great ways to book your Universal Orlando vacation, but the official site does offer a best price guarantee, and comes with several other benefits. You can book online at the website listed above, and you can also call the booking number.

UNLOCKED TIP: If you’re going to book any kind of combo of hotels or tickets, you will need to call the booking number. The website is easy, but she’s a straight shooter. One hotel and one ticket type. Also, if you’re going to annual pass route, you need to call to get the discounts.

What to Pack for Universal Orlando

Pre-Trip Planning: What to Bring on Your Trip

Of course, deciding what to bring to Universal Orlando is a highly individualized endeavor, but there are many things that should be on the list of every person who takes a Universal Orlando vacation. Make sure to pack the following:

Light and flexible bag or backpack: You want to pack easy and light for the parks. There are no specific color or size restrictions, but many rides require locker use, and the lockers have limited space. We’ve used this one from Zomake for years. It folds up to take up minimal space in your suitcase. We also love this smaller crossbody from WATERFLY.

RELATED: Find out which rides require locker use over on our ride list page.

Ponchos and umbrellas: Orlando weather will change on a dime and almost always include rain. Bring a poncho and/or an umbrella or buy them at any Universal store around the resort. The Universal Orlando ponchos are really thick and sturdy.

Toiletries: These Kitsch shampoo, conditioner, and body bars are a great way to limited the liquids in your suitcase and stop worrying about explosions happening mid-travel. Plus they’re organic, paraben free, and toxin free. We love the castor oil shampoo, coconut oil conditioner, and detox or sugar scrub body bars. Don’t be like Ross Gellar and have a shampoo emergency.

Clothing: Bring outdoor appropriate and breathable clothes in the summer. Bring light layers and a big jacket or sweatshirt in the winter. Central Florida winter days are very nice, but it gets chilly at night.

Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses: Bring plenty of sunscreen, hats or bandanas, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the plentiful Orlando sunshine. You can also purchase all these at most Universal stores across the resort.

Swimwear: Every on site hotel has at least one (1) pool, and there are really great water rides in the park. A swimsuit in the summer is not strictly necessary but always a good idea.

UNLOCKED TIP: Every pool at Universal Orlando Resort is heated to 80 degrees throughout the year. Bring your suit year round.

Reusable water bottle: A nice feature of the parks are the Coca Cola Freestyle refillable mugs that have refilling stations with ice and tons of drink options—including water—available all over the parks. But if you want to bring your own water bottle, you can use the freestyle stations to get water and ice refills for free.

Electrolyte packets: Get some extra hydration to put in your reusable water bottle (or your freestyle mug) with these electrolyte packets. All natural with no mined salt.

Extra snacks: Even though the parks, hotels, and CityWalk are full to brimming with excellent food, keeping some go to snacks in your bag, especially for kids, is always a good idea. We love these protein bars from PRIMA. They keep our energy up for long park days.

Portable chargers and power banks: Portable power is always a good idea at the parks. Between using the Universal Orlando app to get around and taking tons of pictures, you’re likely to drain your battery. With three (3) output types, we find these light to pack and easy to charge. Keep your phone charged up so you don’t lose other members of your party. (Or let your phone die so you can avoid them. Again, we don’t judge.)

Multiple payment options: Many outlets across the resort are now cashless, so make sure you bring cards or ApplePay. But cash is still taken in many outlets, and it’s also a good idea for traditional tips. Make sure you have both.

Photo ID: You should always have this with you, even away from Universal Orlando. Someone might think you’re under 21. 😳

Wipes and sanitizer: We have to bring them due to Laney’s celiac disease, but it’s a good idea for everyone when there are big crowds, tight spaces, and tons of germs everywhere.

Harry Potter and other cosplay items: It’s time to break out your wizard robes. Make sure to check out the costumes policy before you pack them.

Ziplocks and other waterproofing: We always bring plenty of ziplocks to protect the electronics we bring to the parks, and plenty of plastic bags to store wet clothes.

Comfortable shoes: You’re always going to walk more than you think at a theme park. But when traversing the entire Universal Orlando Resort, you can easily walk 5–10 miles in a day. Make sure you have a pair of shoes that are already broken in to wear on your trip. Trust us, Universal Orlando is not the time for new shoes.

UNLOCKED TIP: Don’t judge us, but we walk around in these at the parks all the time. They are made of sturdy memory foam, have excellent heel and arch support, a comfortable toe strap, and they don’t give you blisters.

Blister prep: Maybe you’re one of those people who can walk 20 miles and never get a single blister. But maybe you’re not. Bring plenty of blister pads, blister spray, band aids, etc., just in case. We rely on these ENGO patches and this moleskin.

UNLOCKED TIP: Just like new shoes, Universal Orlando is no place for a pedicure. Don’t put a pedicure in your prep for a Universal Orlando vacation. You don’t want delicate feet before walking tons of miles. Callouses are your friend! And speaking of …

Post-Trip Recovery: Things to Use after Your Trip

Since Universal Orlando is a very active vacation, we recommend pampering yourself *after* your trip, instead of before.

After an active and indulgent vacation—especially one filled with theme park walking, late nights, and perhaps a few too many cocktails—you’ll want to focus on recovery, hydration, relaxation, and resetting your routine. Try the following for post-travel recovery:

Electrolyte packets: We mentioned them in the packing section, but they’re also great for rehydrating post-vacation. Get some extra hydration with these electrolyte packets.

Coconut water: Also a great rehydrating tool.

Red light therapy: Red light therapy is becoming more and more trendy as people realize all of its amazing benefits. It’s also, thankfully, becoming more and more affordable. Detox your whole body, or just your face, with a good home system. We use this one for our faces.

Hyaluronic acid: Pair your red light with this pure hyaluronic acid. It’s a main ingredient in most regenerative skin creams, but we recommend skipping the middle man and using it in its pure form.

IV fluids: As long as the credentials are legitimate, IV bars are wonderful places to recharge after a big vacation.

Biocol detox: Along the same lines as IV fluids, a Biocol detox can recharge your batteries if you indulged on your vacation.

Ancient Minerals salt soak: Whether for your whole body or just your feet, a salt soak can work wonders for a tired body. We love Ancient Minerals because the salt and minerals are all natural, providing your body with much needed electrolytes and a good night’s sleep.

CBD or Arnica Cream: It helps with muscle aches and inflammation.

Weighted blanket: Speaking of a good night’s sleep! Try this one.

Sleep Mask: Good for the flight back too. We like this one because it has padding that totally blocks out light.

Hydrating Face Masks: Restore moisture after sun exposure and long days.

Vitamin C Serum: Helps with skin repair and brightening.

Cooling Eye Masks: Reduces puffiness from travel and lack of sleep.

Protein powder: Get some protein back in your diet as your work your way back to real life. We use Equip Foods versions obsessively.

Massage or spa day: And now is the time to go get that pedicure! Stop by the sauna and sweat out those toxins.

Universal Orlando Resort Pet Policy

Universal Orlando Resort has a strict pet policy, allowing only service animals within its theme parks, CityWalk, and some hotels. Pets and emotional support animals are not permitted inside the parks or dining locations. However, for guests traveling with pets, Universal provides accommodations through the Loews Loves Pets program at select on site hotels, including Loews Royal Pacific Resort, Loews Sapphire Falls Resort, and Loews Portofino Bay Hotel.

These pet-friendly hotels offer designated pet rooms, pet amenities like food and water bowls, and nearby walking areas. Guests should check availability in advance, as pet-friendly rooms are limited and require an additional cleaning fee.

Travel Planning Resources

Just because we like you, we took all the travel resources mentioned in Part I of this Universal Orlando planning guide, and put them all in one place. See below.

Hotel Bookings

Ready to book your stay now? We gathered all the best links to Universal Orlando’s on site hotels right here. Start booking your stay below right now!

• Loews Portofino Bay Hotel: Click here to book!
• The Hard Rock Hotel Orlando: Click here to book!
• Loews Royal Pacific Resort: Click here to book!
• Loews Sapphire Falls Resort: Click here to book!
• Universal’s Helios Grand Hotel: Click here to book!
• Universal’s Terra Luna Resort: Click here to book!
• Universal’s Stella Nova Resort: Click here to book!
• Cabana Bay Beach Resort: Click here to book!
• Universal’s Aventura Hotel: Click here to book!
• Endless Summer: Dockside Inn and Suites: Click here to book!
• Endless Summer: Surfside Inn and Suites: Click here to book!

Official Websites

Official: You can find everything you need to book your vacation at the Official Universal Orlando Resort website.

Package Order: 877-801-9720  |  Ticket Order: 407-224-7840  |  Hotel Reservations: 888-464-3617

Orlando Tourism Board: Visit Orlando

Air travel: Orlando International Airport, Orlando Sanford International Airport, WayAway

Train travel: Amtrak, Brightline

Bus travel: Greyhound, FlixBus, Red Coach, Lynx Central Station

Car travel: TURO, Mears Transportation

Authorized Retailers

​Orlando Vacation: An authorized retailer for Universal Studios Orlando, offering discounted theme park tickets, hotel deals, and vacation packages since 1993.

The Undercover Tourist: Other than having the best Orlando vacation crowd calendar out there, the Undercover Tourist is a trusted, authorized ticket seller that offers discounted theme park tickets, hotel deals, and vacation planning resources for destinations like Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and more. Known for its no-hidden-fees pricing and excellent customer service, it helps travelers save money while providing insider tips for a smoother theme park experience.

Tickets2You: An authorized reseller providing tickets for Universal Orlando Resort, Walt Disney World Resort, and SeaWorld Orlando.

The Official Ticket Center: A discount attraction ticket agency in Kissimmee, Florida, selling tickets to Universal Studios, Walt Disney World, and SeaWorld Orlando.

My Park Tickets: An authorized seller offering discounts on tickets to Universal Orlando Resort and other Orlando attractions.

PART II: GOING ON YOUR TRIP

Everything You Need to Know Once You Get to the Parks

The Universal Orlando Resort Official App

The very first thing you should do before you go to Universal Orlando (or immediately when you get there) is download the official Universal Orlando Resort app. It is monumentally useful and will make your trip a million times easier. It is also an excellent reference tool if you are trying to plan an itinerary.

Make sure to create an account to take full advantage of all the app has to offer. Here’s what we love about it:

• Its interactive resort map. It shows you all attractions, restaurants, and shops at the parks, CityWalk, and the hotels.
• Wait times. Through a list or map feature, check on current wait times and temporary delays or closures for your favorite rides.
• Ride alerts. Set up a timer for any ride that tells you when your favorite ride has a short wait.

UNLOCKED TIP: The wait times listed on the app are for the main line only. There is not currently a place to find single rider and express pass wait times, although if wishing made it so!

• Attraction details. You can find a quick hit summary of all your favorite rides, including height and weight requirements, accessibility options, express pass and single rider info, and a description of the attraction.
• Mobile food ordering. The app is a must if you’re going to eat in the park, as most in park restaurants (like the Three Broomsticks and the Leaky Cauldron) have moved to mobile orders only with no counter service.

UNLOCKED TIP: Given that our main author has severe food allergies, mobile ordering made us very nervous at first. But there is an option to add an “allergen note” to your order before submitting it, and when you do, someone from the kitchen staff will come and speak to you directly about how to make your order safe. Jump to dietary accommodations.

• Dining reservations. Reserve a table at your favorite restaurant inside the parks and at CityWalk right in the app.
• Park hours. Use the app for a quick reference tool for daily hours for each property at the resort, including theme parks, CityWalk, and in park, hotel, and CityWalk restaurants.
• Blackout calendar. Choose what type of pass you have, and instantly view its specific blackout dates.
• Menus. Browse menus of your favorite dining spots before you get there.
• Parking reminder. If you’re self parking in the resort garage, set up a parking reminder so you can find your way back. (It’s a good idea, the garage is massive.)
• Mobile wallet. Use your mobile wallet to virtually store tickets, passes, and payment details for mobile ordering.
• Purchase tickets, passes, and extras. Get your theme park tickets, express passes, and special event tickets right in the app.

UNLOCKED TIP: In the top right corner of each attraction or restaurant, there is a ❤️ to click on to add that attraction or restaurant to your “favorites” list. Then if you visit the “profile” tab and click on favorites, a curated interactive map and list of just your preferred attractions will populate.

UNLOCKED TIP: Some features in the Universal Orlando app are GPS-enabled (e.g., ride alerts and mobile ordering) and will only work when you’re at the resort. Don’t try them while you’re still at home. You can. It’s not dangerous or anything. Just … nothing will happen.

Arrival at Universal Orlando

There are four (4) basic ways to enter Universal Orlando Resort: main entry, EPIC Universe entry, Volcano Bay entry, and on site hotel entry. We’ll go through each below.

Main Entry

The main entry to Universal Orlando is through CityWalk Orlando and is separated from the parking area, drop off area, and bus depot by Universal Boulevard, a large, two-way, main Orlando street. A skybridge connects the two.

Take the escalator up to the sky bridge and make your way to the entrance of CityWalk. It’s about a 300-meter walk and features moving walkways to make the hike a bit easier. Once you exit the bridge, you will pass through security. Once you’re through security, you will arrive at the north entrance to CityWalk. From there, you can navigate the resort.

Universal Orlando Resort Parking

Universal Orlando Resort offers multiple parking options for guests visiting its theme parks and CityWalk. The main parking garage provides general parking, preferred parking, and prime parking starting at $32 per day. General parking is the most affordable, while preferred and prime parking offer spots closer to the security checkpoint for added convenience. There is also valet parking available at CityWalk, with both short-term and full-day rates. RV and oversized vehicle parking is available in designated areas of the garage.

Parking at Universal Orlando is comped in specific situations. Self parking is free after 6:00 PM for all guests, except on Halloween Horror Nights event nights. Additionally, guests who purchase two (2) or more matinee movie tickets at the Universal Cinemark theater can receive parking validation for a partial refund. Annual Passholders with Preferred or Premier passes receive free general parking all day, while Premier Passholders also get free valet parking. Hotel guests do not receive free parking at the theme parks but can pay a nightly parking fee at their Universal hotel and use complimentary resort transportation.

On Site Hotel Entry

The other way to get to the north campus theme parks at Universal Orlando is via on site hotel transportation. Each hotel gives you the option to valet or self park if you bring your own vehicle to the resort. As we noted here, there are also multiple other ways to arrive at your hotel.

Hotel Check In

After you check into your hotel, look for the Universal Vacation Planning Center to pick up your tickets. If you have mobile tickets you can skip this step. You can also buy your tickets and any park extras you want.

UNLOCKED TIP: Always take pictures of your park tickets so they can be replaced in case you lose them.

UNLOCKED TIP: Hotel check in is set at the standard 4PM. But don’t let this dissuade you from arriving at any point in the day that’s convenient for you. Your park ticket is valid for the day you check into the hotel and the day you check out, and you should feel free to arrive early to take advantage of a full park day if you want. Sometimes your room will be ready when you check in early, but if it’s not, luggage storage will keep your stuff while you enjoy the parks. You can settle into your room when you get back.

Off to the Parks

Once you check in, settle in, and get your tickets, there are three ways to get to the parks: (1) water taxi (we love it!), (2) walking path, and (3) the Universal resort buses.

We covered that up here in transportation if you need a refresher back to when you started reading this War and Peace length Universal Orlando Planning Guide. (We literally said “everything you need to know” it’s weird that you’re surprised.)

If you go by water taxi, you will go through security before you board. By walking path, you will go through security at the end of the walking path next to the Universal Studios Florida theme park from the east or Margaritaville at CityWalk from the west. If you go by resort bus, you will go through security at the main entry to CityWalk, the main entry to EPIC Universe, or the main entry to Volcano Bay water park. From there you can navigate the resort!

Volcano Bay Entry

Volcano Bay is not contiguous with Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure and cannot be accessed via water taxi or the main walking path. If you’re staying on site, the Volcano Bay-specific resort buses ferry guests back and forth. Make sure to check that your bus is headed to Volcano Bay and not CityWalk.

UNLOCKED TIP: If you’re staying at Cabana Bay Beach Resort, skip the bus and use the dedicated walking path between Volcano Bay and Cabana Bay.

EPIC Universe Entry

Because EPIC Universe is new and sits by itself, it is more straight forward than the north campus. EPIC day guests can park in the EPIC Universe main lot, which is adjacent to the park, or use the park shuttles from the north campus depot or any on site hotel. Both options drop you off at the front entrance to EPIC Universe.

Helios Grand Hotel guests enter the park through a dedicated entrance that drops them off right inside the back of the park in Celestial Park between Dark Universe and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic. You must have a room key to go through security at this entrance.

Park Entry (and Exit)

The entrances to the main north campus theme parks are located across the river from CityWalk about 200 meters apart from each other. Jump in any entry line, where you will have you park ticket scanned and your picture taken for facial photo identification for the rest of your trip.

NOTE: Until recently, they took your fingerprint instead of your picture. Word on the street is they made the switch for efficiency and hygiene, but we don’t have the details.

The main entrance to each theme park or water park and each of the Hogwarts train stations (Hogsmeade™ Station and King’s Cross Station) are the six (6) places you will have to present your park ticket, so it needs to be safe and handy. Any perks from your on site hotel will be accessed by scanning your room key card, so that needs to follow you around as well. It is your Universal Express Pass Unlimited, your resort wide charge card, and your hotel guest identifier.

UNLOCKED TIP: Go to your hotel Universal Store and get a Universal Orlando lanyard before you hit the parks. Lanyards are also available at any shop at the resort and most of the kiosks. Store both your room key and your park ticket in your lanyard pouch(es). Back in the day the pouches were clear and you could store both in one pouch. Add it to the wish list.

Entry Policies

Universal Orlando Resort has a number of park entry policies designed to ensure the safety and convenience of all visitors. These policies apply to each of Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and EPIC Universe theme parks, as well as Volcano Bay water park. Here’s a breakdown of the key entry policies you should know before your visit.

Ticket Requirements

• Admission Tickets: All visitors must have a valid ticket for entry. Tickets are available in various forms, including paper tickets, digital tickets, or through the Universal Orlando app.
• Will-Call: If you’ve purchased tickets online and you are not staying at an on site hotel (even though we know we taught you better than that), you may need to pick up your tickets at a will-call window. Be prepared with your confirmation number and a valid photo ID.
• Mobile Tickets: You can store your tickets on the Universal Orlando app or as a digital barcoded ticket for easier access. Mobile tickets can be scanned directly from your smartphone.

Bag & Security Checks

• Bag Checks: Universal Orlando has a security screening process before you enter the park. All bags, backpacks, and personal items are subject to search.
• Clear Bags: There is no bag color restriction.
• Size Restrictions: There are no size limitations for bags but be aware that there is limited space in many areas of the park for large bags. This includes many rides that require bag storage in relatively small lockers.
• Metal Detectors: All security checkpoints use metal detectors for additional screening.

Clothing and Costumes Policy

If a guest is spotted in a costume that is deemed not permissible, the guest will be asked to change into something more appropriate or exit the park. And don’t get it twisted, Universal Orlando is a dictatorship, not a democracy.

• Proper attire, including shirts and shoes, must be worn at all times.
• No clothing likely to incite a disturbance or display offensive language or content.
• No clothing, costumes, or accessories that represent someone as emergency personnel, create a false impression of employment by Universal Orlando, or are deemed inappropriate for a family environment.
• No costume masks, veils, or long trains. Face coverings worn for medical or health reasons are allowed.
• No swords or weaponry. Any home-crafted wands must be rounded on either end and must be appropriate in nature.
• Costumes cannot exceed 28 inches wide x 80 inches high and are subject to secondary x-ray screening.
• Some costumes may not be permitted on certain attractions for safety concerns.

Prohibited Items

Universal personnel reserves the right to deem any item to be disruptive or dangerous. (See? Dictatorship.) These items are strictly prohibited:

• Explosives, weapons, items that can be used as or have the appearance of a weapon.
• Alcohol or drinks containing alcohol.
• Marijuana or any item containing Cannabis or related paraphernalia.
• Illegal items.
• Power driven or radio frequency-controlled devices (unless used as a mobility device).
• Coolers (soft coolers limited to 8.5 inches x 6 inches x 6 inches are permitted).
• Glass.
• Suitcases/bags with wheels.
• Folding chairs.

Entry Times and Hours

• Opening Hours: Universal Orlando typically opens early (around 9:00 AM), but entry times may vary depending on the day and special events. Be sure to check the official website or the Universal app for daily opening times. Find the link in our sidebar ( 👉 or 👇 depending your device) or click here.
• Early Park Admission: Guests with certain types of tickets (e.g., annual passholders or those staying at select Universal Orlando hotels) may receive early park admission. This allows you to enter the park before the official opening time to enjoy certain attractions with fewer crowds.
• Closing Time: The parks generally close around 7:00PM to 9:00PM, but special events (such as Halloween Horror Nights) may further limit the hours. Be sure to check the official website or the Universal app for daily closing times.

UNLOCKED TIP: Universal Orlando has adjusted park hours for 2026 so that the three theme parks open later and close later.

Stroller & Wheelchair Access

• Stroller rentals: Strollers are available for rent at the park entrances for a daily fee. You may also bring your own stroller, but it must fit within the size guidelines (usually no larger than 36” x 53”).
• Wheelchair rentals: Wheelchairs and Electric Convenience Vehicles (ECVs) are available for rent at the park entrances, on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Guests with disabilities: Universal Orlando is committed to providing a wonderful experience for guests with disabilities. There are accessible entrances for many rides and services, and you may qualify for a Universal Access Pass if needed. This pass allows guests with disabilities to schedule return times for rides to avoid long wait times.

RELATED: Check out each attraction’s accessibility options in our list of every ride at Universal Orlando.

Re-entry Policy

• Same-day re-entry: If you leave the park and wish to return on the same day, you can re-enter with your valid ticket. However, you may be required to pass through the security screening again upon re-entry.
• Lost Tickets: If you lose your ticket, Universal Orlando offers assistance at the Guest Services desk. You will need to provide identification or proof of purchase to get a replacement. (Like we said, always take a picture of your park ticket!)

UNLOCKED TIP: Policies can change on a dime. It’s always a good idea to check for any updates to policies or changes in procedures on the official Universal Orlando website or through the Universal Orlando app before your visit.

Cancellation and Severe Weather Policies

Theme park tickets are non-refundable once purchased. Vacation packages have specific cancellation and change fees, but they can be avoided by purchasing cancellation protection.

In the event of inclement weather, such as a hurricane that prevents travel, Universal Orlando may waive change fees.

This does not apply to rain and average storms, which happen frequently in Orlando weather. Storms often pass quickly, and there are plenty of indoor attractions that will still operate during inclement weather.

Learn more about cancellation, rebooking, and inclement weather here.

Outside Food and Drink Policy

They want you to mostly eat the food at the park restaurants, but they understand that people have dietary restrictions and that moms need baby food. Food cannot require heating or refrigeration. Acceptable items include:

• Bottled Water (maximum two (2) liters per guest).
• Any food required for medical purposes, medically indicated nutritional supplements, or special dietary needs.
• Baby food and formula.

RELATED: Click here to check out our Gluten Free at Universal Orlando hub.

Learn more about Universal Orlando entry policies here.

Inside the Parks

Rides and Attractions

Rides

We have a complete list of every Universal Orlando ride and attraction that will tell you about any and all ride requirements of every ride and show across all parks and CityWalk Orlando. We also have each park broken out separately as well, plus a separate post for every ride and attraction at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Click below to find them.

• Universal Studios Florida Ride & Attraction List (2026)
• Islands of Adventure Ride & Attraction List (2026)
• EPIC Universe Ride & Attraction List (2026)
• Universal’s Volcano Bay Ride & Attraction List (2026)
• The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Ride & Attraction List (2026)

You can also find ride requirements and details at the Universal Orlando official website and the official app.

RELATED: Don’t miss our way too opinionated Universal Orlando north campus 2026 ride ranking, and our 2026 EPIC Universe ride ranking.

On January 20, 2026, Universal announced that Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift (a high thrill coaster) will replace Rip Ride Rockit, which will trigger the closing of Fast & Furious Supercharged. All this is happening in 2027. No word on what will replace Supercharged yet.

Child Swap: The child swap feature allows one supervising adult to stay in a separate area with the kids in their party who either don’t meet the ride requirement or don’t care to experience the attraction, while the other supervising adult rides with the rest of their party. Then each supervising adult switches places without standing in line all over again, allowing each supervising adult to experience the attraction in a convenient way.

Express Pass: Rides that accept the Universal Express Pass allow guests to scan their express pass and enter a separate, quicker queue to get on the ride.

Single Rider: Rides that have a single rider line allow guests to enter a typically much shorter line to get on the ride. As the name implies, you ride alone, and all members of your party will be slotted where they best fit with guests who stand in the main ride queue.

Accessibility: Universal Orlando has a very inclusive policy where all park entrances, restaurants, on site hotels, transportation, and ride and ride queues are constructed to accommodate guests using wheelchairs. Most attractions can accommodate these guests, either in the wheelchair itself, or by transferring the guest to the ride seat.

Seat Check: High thrill rides at Universal Orlando have test seats at each of their entrances. These seats are available—and highly recommended—to ensure that guests can fit securely and appropriately within the attraction seat restraints so that Universal Orlando can maintain the highest safety standards for guests.

UNLOCKED TIP: When planning around inclement weather, remember that Islands of Adventure attractions are mostly outdoor (read: will close), and Universal Studios Florida attractions are mostly indoor (read: will stay open).

Entertainment

Universal Orlando offers a diverse lineup of entertainment that goes beyond its thrilling rides, bringing the magic of movies to life through live shows, street performances, character encounters, interactive experiences, and nighttime spectaculars.

Guests can experience high-energy productions like The Bourne Stuntacular, which blends live-action stunts with cutting-edge technology. Music lovers can enjoy live performances from themed bands in areas like the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, where the Frog Choir and Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees perform enchanting sets.

A live street show can erupt anywhere in Universal Studios Florida. Visitors can also meet beloved characters like Optimus Prime and Bumblebee from Transformers, Captain America at Marvel Island, the mischievous Minions, and classic Universal monsters roaming the parks.

Throughout the year, seasonal events add even more excitement to the parks. Halloween Horror Nights, a global icon in the Halloween trade, transforms Universal Studios Florida into a terrifying world of haunted houses and scare zones, featuring some of the most iconic horror franchises.

RELATED: Click here to read our in depth coverage of Halloween Horror Nights 2025.

Mardi Gras at Universal Orlando brings vibrant parades, live concerts, and Cajun-inspired cuisine. The holidays at Universal Orlando feature the Macy’s Christmas parade, a live retelling of How the Grinch Stole Christmas, special holiday-themed Harry Potter shows, and more.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™

Visiting the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando is a magical experience. But to make the most of your trip, a little planning goes a long way. The lands are split between all three main theme parks: Hogsmeade in Islands of Adventure, Diagon Alley in Universal Studios Florida, and the Ministry of Magic in EPIC Universe. To experience them all, you’ll need a Park-to-Park ticket, which also grants you access to the Hogwarts Express, a scenic train ride connecting the Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley (Ministry of Magic is stand alone).

RELATED: Check out our complete list of every Harry Potter attraction, including rides, shows, dining, and shopping here.

 A lot of guides will tell you to head straight to the Wizarding World in the morning (they are each located at the back of their respective parks), but once word got out, everyone started doing it. Thus, eliminating that particular advantage. The reality is, even though they opened over a decade ago, these worlds remain incredibly popular and will always be teeming with crowds.

UNLOCKED TIP: Hit the Wizarding World rides at meal times. The lines are usually slightly shorter when most people are noshing.

Rides in Hogsmeade include Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, which takes you through Hogwarts Castle, Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, an intense coaster through the Forbidden Forest, the Hogwarts Express – Hogsmeade Station, which ferries guests to Diagon Alley, and Flight of the Hippogriff, for the minis in your group.

Rides in Diagon Alley include Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, an immersive dark ride set inside the wizarding bank, and the Hogwarts Express – King’s Cross Station, which is located next door to Diagon Alley in London. While you’re outside Diagon Alley in London, check out the Knight Bus and Number 12 Grimmauld Place, where Kreacher is sneakily catching glimpses of you.

RELATED: See our review of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter rides in our 2026 ranking of every major Universal Orlando north campus attraction and our EPIC Universe 2026 ride ranking.

In the Ministry of Magic, you can ride Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry, a breathtaking recreation of the Ministry of Magic. You can also experience Le Cirque Arcanus, a show straight out of Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.

While the rides themselves are worth the price of admission, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter offers so much more. You can find a wand selection ceremony at Ollivander’s, and then use your interactive wand to cast spells all over each of Diagon Alley, Hogsmeade, and the Ministry of Magic.

UNLOCKED TIP: Across the street from Ollivander’s in Diagon Alley is a place called Shutterbuttons. Drop in to pick up an unforgettable, one of a kind souvenir.

The eateries are highly immersive and feature some of the most delicious food in the park, including, obviously, butterbeer.

Try the Leaky Cauldron and Florean Fortesque’s Ice Cream Parlor in Diagon Alley, the Three Broomsticks and the Hog’s Head in Hogsmeade, and Café L’air De La Sirène, Le Gobelet Noir, and Bar Moonshine in the Ministry of Magic.

Visit Madam Malkin’s Robes for All Occasions, the Magical Menagerie, Borgin and Burkes (in Knockturn Alley!) and Weasley’s Wizard Wheezes in Diagon Alley. Head to Honeydukes, Dervish and Banges, and Gregorovich Wands in Hogsmeade. And check out Les Galeries Mirifiques and Tour en Floo in the Ministry of Magic.

UNLOCKED TIP: Pick up a pack of Wizarding World postcards anywhere Wizarding World merch is sold, then have them stamped with the Hogsmeade postmark at Dervish and Banges. You can even mail them right there. It’s one of our favorite Universal Orlando vacation traditions!

J.K. Rowling approved every detail of these worlds, and it shows. They are by far the most immersive worlds anywhere, in any theme park. You feel immediately like you’re transported into the books and movies. It’s so much fun.

Kids at Universal Orlando

A quick course in what to do with your kids at Universal Orlando Resort. Really the whole vibe across the resort is very kid friendly. Universal sometimes gets a not kid friendly reputation because the other major theme park in Orlando is completely child oriented, but it’s far from accurate.

 We took our kids for the first time in 2021. We waited to make sure they were tall enough to ride most rides. (But to each their own! There are always infants and toddlers running around every part of Universal Orlando and having the time of their lives. Well, the infants aren’t running but … you get it.)

They have since been now that they’re old enough to ride everything and that is also so much fun. Well, every fun ride. Rip Ride Rockit was not a fun ride and that is a hill we’re prepared to die on. (For more extreme and probably offensive opinions on park rides, please refer to our Ultimate North Campus Ride Ranking.)

UPDATE: Rip Ride Rockit is now permanently closed to make way for Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift, a new high thrill coaster. Catch every update on the new experience on our News & Updates page.

Child Swap

Jump to child swap.

UNLOCKED TIP: Every single ride at each theme parks (Volcano Bay does not offer child swap) are either kid-oriented or feature the child swap option. Our favorite child swap is VelociCoaster. It is comfy. Like a little daycare center with TVs and toys back there.

Stroller Rentals and Policy

You are welcome to bring your own strollers to Universal Orlando. You can also rent double and single strollers at the front of the park. Jump to stroller policies.

Changing Station and Family Restrooms

All resort restrooms have diaper changing stations. There are also family restrooms at select restrooms throughout the resort.

First Aid Station

First aid stations are available in each park.

Nursing Facilities

Nursing facilities are available at the first aid station.

Fun for All Ages: Rides

We’re not going to specifically list every single ride that fits into each age group. At least not here. You can find that here in our very handy ride guide. And check out all ride height requirements for the littles here. We know. You’re lucky to have us.

0–3 years

There aren’t many infant or baby oriented things in the parks, but each ride will tell you in the height requirements if infants can ride in laps or if they need to be child swapped.

When you’ve got a toddler, there will be a little more for them to do. Seuss Landing, Minion Land and DreamWorks Land are geared toward kids. There are many kids play areas—and splash pads at Volcano Bay—geared toward young kids.

UNLOCKED TIP: Storm Force Accelatron is listed as kid-friendly and doesn’t have a height requirement, but we find that weird to be honest! It’s the fast spinning one that every amusement park has a version of. The one with three sets of circles that all spin while the whole thing spins. This doesn’t seem appropriate for a baby, but do you, Islands of Adventure.

There are height requirements for every ride in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter except the Hogwarts Express, which, in our opinion, is a blast at literally any age.

4–6 years

When kids are about four (4) or five (5), they’re hovering around the minimum height requirement for rides at the resort, which is 36 inches. Why are we telling you that you probably already know. Anyway, there are seven rides geared toward those 36-inch munchkins (not including the ones with no height requirement that this age will also love).

UNLOCKED TIP: Skull Island: Reign of Kong is also a 36-incher, and … we can sort of see why a kid could ride this ride, but don’t be so busy thinking about could that you forget about should. Do not take your small child on this ride. We don’t even ride it. It’s scary.

By six (6) your kid should be getting ready for those 40–42 inchers. If not, maybe get that checked out? Sorry we’ll mind our own business. This encompasses many of the extremely fun rides, including Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts. These still require an accompanying adult but are tons of fun.

7–9 years

Now your kids are ready to for the 48-inch rides, which include almost all the best ones. They can now ride Revenge of the Mummy (Universal Unlocked kids still won’t ride this because it’s about mummies but maybe yours wants to), Stardust Racers, Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, and Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. These are some of the best rides in the parks and do not require an accompanying adult.

10 Years and Up

By the time kids reach ten (10), they’re likely tall enough to ride every ride at the parks. Including the most extreme thrill rides. The max height for any ride is 54 inches.

Fun for All Ages: On Site Hotels

All on site hotels range from “super kid-friendly” to “not really kid-friendly but you will still find kids there.” Cabana Bay Beach Resort is probably the most kid-friendly, and Portofino Bay Hotel the least. However, all Signature Collection hotels have themed suites for kids. These include the Minions, Jurassic Park, and How to Train Your Dragon. The last one is our favorite!

Cabana Bay Beach Resort, Aventura Hotel, Surfside Inn and Suites, and Dockside Inn and Suites all have suite options that can sleep a family, but none of them are themed.

All on site hotel restaurants have some version of a kids menu, and the staff will be extremely nice to your children.

Each hotel has pools that kids of any age would like. Some of them have water slides, kid pools, sand beaches, and splash pads. Cabana Bay has a lazy river. In our opinion Cabana Bay Beach Resort has the most fun to offer kids, and that includes the pools.

Protect Your Health

Maybe the number one most important part of planning your visits. No one should go too hard at the parks.

UNLOCKED TIP: There is a first aid station at each of Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, EPIC Universe, and Volcano Bay. There is also a Health Services main station in Universal Studios Florida. Ask the nearest park employee to guide you.

 When you have a list of rides you want to get to, it is easy to forget that you don’t have to make a beeline for the next one. Yes, there will be times when you only have one (1) or two (2) days in the parks and you want to be as efficient as possible. But you aren’t going to enjoy yourself if you’re heat exhausted, hungry, or dehydrated. And you definitely won’t be having fun with exhausted or blistered feet.

UNLOCKED TIP: Protect your health at the parks. Drink enough water, limit alcohol consumption, remember to stop and eat, and remember to take breaks out of the sun. Use the Freestyle machines to stay hydrated for free.

UNLOCKED TIP: Protect your feet. Do not get a pedicure before you leave for your trip. If you can, try not to get one for as long as possible before you leave. Fresh feet will get ripped up faster than anything when you’re trying to walk for hours at a time. Calluses are your friend! Wear tennis shoes or other shoes you know are broken in and can be walked in for long periods of time.

Also, in case you do everything to protect your feet and you still get blisters, always pack plenty of blister relief options. It’s worth the space in your suitcase, trust me. (We covered this in the packing list, but it really is worth repeating. We want you to have the best time at the parks!)

Theme Park Itineraries

WARNING: Controversial opinions ahead.

There are many guides and blogs that will hand you a perfectly planned out minute to minute itinerary to cover all the theme park ground you want in either one (1) or two (2) days. We’re not trying to break your heart, but those itineraries are all lies. (Nor are we trying to insult the many wonderful websites that provide said itineraries. It is a very well-meaning endeavor!) We’re sorry. Take a seat. Have a drink if you’re taking this hard.

Calling Audibles

The weather, the ride times, and the random ride closures and delays are just a few things that will burn that itinerary up before midday. You can absolutely do the parks in one (1) or two (2) days, but getting around Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, or EPIC Universe to your satisfaction in only one (1) or two (2) days has a lot to do with calling audibles.

If you only have one (1) or two (2) days, the best thing to do is start early, rest—but don’t lounge, and use the Universal Orlando app to consistently check ride status. The app will show you open, closed, and wait times of every ride at the park. We also highly recommend the Universal Express Pass Unlimited. It will be vital to experiencing everything you want to in a short time.

UNLOCKED TIP: Remember to search for and use park Wi-Fi on your phone. It’s reliable and will save you a lot of data usage.

At this point (we reserve the right to change our minds) we don’t plan to provide step by step itineraries in these guides. When we go to the parks, we find it best to have a loose schedule and don’t find strict itineraries helpful. What we will do is arm you with all the information you could ever possibly need to know to go at your own desired pace at the parks and make your own flexible itineraries.

Food and Drink

You will find delicious and immersive foods throughout the theme parks, the on site hotels, and CityWalk. Eat like a witch or wizard at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, enjoy Italian themed dining at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, enjoy food and drinks at Margaritaville and yummy Mexican food at Antojitos at CityWalk, grab some green eggs and ham in Seuss Landing, and that is truly just the beginning.

Mobile Ordering

Many restaurants in the parks have mobile ordering via the official Universal Orlando app that you can and should take advantage of. At this point there are many restaurants that only operate via mobile ordering and don’t have counter service. It’s worth it to familiarize yourself with this process on the app. Read more about mobile ordering here.

Dietary Accommodations

DISCLAIMER: If you have a serious allergy you likely already know this, but no restaurant will ever guarantee a completely safe dining experience. Nor should they. Cross-contact is always a possibility, however remote. You have to measure your own risk so that you feel safe. And Universal Unlocked is not suggesting—and will never suggest—otherwise.

Unsurprisingly, we are huge advocates of safe dietary accommodations. And we consider ourselves insanely lucky because the dietary accommodations at our favorite place in the world are simply unmatched. Except for maybe in your home kitchen.

RELATED: Check out our guide to 10 Superb Gluten Free Options at Universal Orlando.

Something for Every Need

In addition to gluten free options safe for celiacs, many restaurants—both quick-service and table-service—offer safe options for all major allergies and preferences, including, but by no means limited to, vegetarian, vegan, soy free, nut free, and dairy free options.

Some menus are labeled this way, and some are not. Either way, as soon as you sit down at any Universal Orlando restaurant and tell your server you have food allergies, they will immediately get a kitchen manager or chef to speak with you about safe meal preparation.

UNRELATED TO UNIVERSAL BUT MAYBE HELPFUL: If you’re new to gluten free or struggling with celiac life at home/away from the parks, I wrote down some products and recipes to help. Find them here!

 Some restaurants have more options than others, but they will all have allergen protocols in place that they take very seriously to prevent cross-contact and ensure a safe dining experience.  

You can plan ahead by checking menus online or on the app, but don’t rely on the allergy descriptions too heavily. The restaurants will accommodate you when you get there.

If you have severe allergies and don’t feel comfortable in even the safest restaurants (and trust us we’ve been there) you are allowed to bring your own snacks anywhere in the resort. Just tell them about the allergies.

EXCEPTION: There is one big exception to the amazing dietary accommodations at Universal Orlando. There are Starbucks and Starbucks offerings across the resort. I have never found Starbucks to be especially helpful or safe when it comes to gluten free options. These locations are no different. Take as much care as you would at any other Starbucks location. This exception also applies to all regular fast food franchises at CityWalk Orlando.

Universal Dining Plan

In recent years Universal Orlando has discontinued their dining plans. However, there are certain times now when vacation package options will include an “up to $1,000” dining card.

CocaCola Freestyle Mug

When you get a drink at one of the parks in a Coke Freestyle Mug, the mug is refillable for free for the rest of your trip at any Coca-Cola refill station (which are way cool) or any location that sells the mugs. They are all over the parks.

UNLOCKED TIP: Purchase a Coke Freestyle Mug at your earliest convenience (or bring your own water bottle, or buy a plastic water bottle at the parks, you can fill anything with water) so you’re able to use the many locations for free refills throughout your trip. Access to ice and water at the refilling stations is always free.

UNLOCKED TIP: Beware of the downside of the Coke Freestyle Mug. It’s not a big one, but it is worth mentioning. The mugs are tall and will not fit in small ride lockers without turning them sideways. Each time you ride, you will have to pour out the contents to store the mug, and then refill once you stop using the locker. There are multiple liquid disposal locations next to all locker stations for this express purpose.

Personal Item Storage

Ride lockers are provided for water rides and other rides where it’s not safe to carry stuff onto the ride. For non-water rides the lockers are a requirement, not a suggestion. Three (3) rides (Jurassic World VelociCoaster, Incredible Hulk, and Stardust Racers) make you go through a metal detector to ensure you aren’t hiding your phone or any other nonsense.

The ride lockers used to be old and janky, but most of them have gone through significant upgrades in recent years.

Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and EPIC Universe offer small lockers, which are free and large lockers, which are paid. All water ride lockers are paid. Volcano Bay offers storage lockers at three (3) places around the park, in three (3) sizes: mini, regular, and family.

At rides in Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, you will scan either your park ticket or your room key card to access a locker and to reopen when you leave the ride area. All ride lockers at EPIC Universe use facial recognition. It is not, in our opinion, an upgrade.

Volcano Bay lockers used to be operated via the TapuTapu wristbands. We haven’t been since they discontinued them and honestly have no clue how any of that is going to work without them.

UNLOCKED TIP: Most places, including the official site, will tell you that you must use your park ticket to open a locker. But it’s just not true. Your room key card works just as well. What can we say? These are the extremely high level insider tips you find at Universal Unlocked.

There are some rides, mostly 3D attractions such as Transformers and Spider-Man, that do not require you to keep your stuff in a locker because your belongings stay safe with you on the ride.

UNLOCKED TIP: Send one person from your party into the ride locker areas because they get really crowded. On busy park days, an attendant will usually prohibit more than one person from entering the areas.

Find out more about locker storage specifics.

Volcano Bay

Volcano Bay, Universal Orlando’s water park, is, we suspect, situated next to the kid-friendlier hotels because it’s a kid’s paradise. Most all the water slides at the park have height requirements that range from 36in to 48in, so kids can start to ride them at a relatively young age. There is also a large lagoon wave pool and a lazy river to dip your minis in, as well as multiple dedicated kids areas, complete with splash pads and water games.

TapuTapu

UNLOCKED TIP: Universal Orlando discontinued TapuTapu in October 2025, and they have not announced any replacement technology for the water park. We should probably delete this section, but we’re leaving it, at least for 2026, so you can read about it and understand what a dumb decision this was.

TapuTapu is Volcano Bay’s innovative wearable wristband that transforms the water park experience by eliminating traditional queues and adding interactive features throughout the park. Given to each guest upon entry (kids too), the waterproof device is designed for virtual queuing—just tap it at the totem outside a slide’s entrance, and it will hold your place in line while you enjoy other attractions.

When your turn is near, the TapuTapu vibrates and displays a notification, letting you know it’s time to ride. This system allows your party to make the most of their day, whether floating in the lazy river, lounging on Waturi Beach, or grabbing a bite to eat, rather than standing in long queues.

Beyond virtual queuing, TapuTapu enhances the overall experience with touch-to-pay convenience, interactive surprises, and locker access. You can link a credit card to your TapuTapu through the Universal Orlando app, allowing you to make cashless purchases for food, drinks, and souvenirs.

Scattered throughout the park are interactive elements that react to a simple tap, such as water cannons that spray unsuspecting guests, and hidden tiki carvings that come to life. The wristband also acts as a digital locker key (unlike Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, where you scan you room key or park ticket).

Cabanas

You can walk into Volcano Bay and take a chance that you can find a table or lounge chair, or you can rent lounge chairs or private cabanas in advance. The private cabanas can seat up to six (6) or a family suite cabana can seat sixteen (16).

Cabanas come with private concierge service, and your server will bring you anything you need. When you reserve lounge chairs or VIP lounge chairs you can have food delivered to you. We have rented the private cabana and let me tell you it is worth every penny. The Universal Unlocked kids ran around while we lounged.

Explore Volcano Bay cabanas and premium seating.

CityWalk

CityWalk Orlando is filled with shops, restaurants, activities, and bars and night clubs. It opens in the morning and closes around 12AM, though many restaurants close earlier, around 10PM. We know the estimating sounds annoying, but that is what they will literally tell you when you ask when something at CityWalk closes. When people stop coming, basically.

Restaurants range from high end full table service dining to fast food, hotdog stands and sandwich shops, donuts and froyo. Some restaurants also have awesome themes. Make sure to stop by Bob Marley—A Tribute to Freedom (adult oriented) and the Toothsome Chocolate Emporium and Savory Feast Kitchen (fun for all ages, but especially the kiddos).

Shops offer Universal Orlando merch from all themed worlds around the parks. There are also specialty shops, including a tattoo studio, a candy store, and merch shops connected to the Hard Rock Cafe and Margaritaville restaurants.

The main Universal Orlando merch store in CityWalk opened a butterbeer counter in mid 2025, which is groundbreaking because it’s the first time butterbeer has been available for purchase outside a Wizarding World of Harry Potter. It’s very cool and very weird to be able to get your butterbeer fix outside the parks.

The bars and nightclubs are obviously adult oriented. But there is also a movie theater, a 36-hole mini golf course, and two (2) escape rooms. Truly something for all ages and preferences. Access CityWalk via resort shuttle bus, car, walking path, or water taxi. And check out details about CityWalk attractions here.

UNLOCKED TIP: Make sure to visit the Universal Store at CityWalk. It has merch no other Universal store does. The Harry Potter merch is especially excellent.

Explore Universal CityWalk Orlando.

For the Adults

Libations

Most in-park restaurants serve alcohol for the 21 and up crowd. There are also stand alone bars (seven (7) at the new EPIC Universe theme park). Make sure you have your photo ID. You can take the alcohol with you most places, but it cannot go on rides or leave the park you got it in.

Smoking Areas

Universal Orlando is not yet entirely smoke free, and as such, you will find designated smoking areas around the resort.

Universal Unlocked Tips

We gathered all our best Universal Orlando tips and tricks from this Universal Orlando planning guide and put them all in once place. Just for you. Plus we added a few more.

Stuff You Should Know Before You Go

UNLOCKED TIP: There are almost always promotional tickets available where you pay for (usually) two days and get two or three days free. Look for them before you pay for four or five days!

UNLOCKED TIP: You must buy a park-to-park ticket between (at minimum) Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure if you want access to the Hogwarts Express ride that travels between the Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade lands of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

UNLOCKED TIP: All annual passes include park-to-park admission to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. If you’ve been paying attention, you know this means you can ride the Hogwarts Express with any level annual pass.

UNLOCKED TIP: If you’re going to book any kind of combo of hotels or tickets, you will need to call the booking number. The website is easy, but she’s a straight shooter. One hotel and one ticket type.

UNLOCKED TIP: Policies can change on a dime. It’s always a good idea to check for any updates to policies or changes in procedures on the official Universal Orlando website or through the Universal Orlando app before your visit.

UNLOCKED TIP: Some features in the Universal Orlando app are GPS-enabled (e.g., ride alerts and mobile ordering) and will only work when you’re in the park. Don’t try them while you’re still at home. You can. It’s not dangerous or anything. Just … nothing will happen.

UNLOCKED TIP: Always take pictures of your park tickets so they can be replaced in case you lose them.

UNLOCKED TIP: On site hotel check in is set at the standard 4PM. But don’t let this dissuade you from arriving at any point in the day that’s convenient for you. Your park ticket is valid for the day you check into the hotel and the day you check out, and you should feel free to arrive early to take advantage of a full park day if you want. Sometimes your room will be ready when you check in early, but if it’s not, luggage storage will keep your stuff while you enjoy the parks. You can settle into your room when you get back.

UNLOCKED TIP: Some bus companies offer direct service to or from popular attractions like Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando.

UNLOCKED TIP: Protect your feet. Do not get a pedicure before you leave for your trip. If you can, try not to get one for as long as possible before you leave. Fresh feet will get ripped up faster than anything when you’re trying to walk for hours at a time. Calluses are your friend! Wear tennis shoes or other shoes you know are broken in and can be walked in for long periods of time.

UNLOCKED TIP: Don’t judge us, but we walk around in these at the parks all the time. They are made of sturdy memory foam, have excellent heel and arch support, a comfortable toe strap, and they don’t give you blisters.

Rides and Attractions

UNLOCKED TIP: When planning around inclement weather, remember that Islands of Adventure attractions are mostly outdoor (read: will close), and Universal Studios Florida attractions are mostly indoor (read: will stay open).

UNLOCKED TIP: The wait times listed on the Universal Orlando app are for the main queue only. There is not currently a place to find single rider and express pass wait times, although if wishing made it so!

UNLOCKED TIP: Before you go on a ride for the first time, check whether the ride has a single rider option or an express pass option, or both, or neither. This info can be found inside the ride details on the Universal Orlando app or on our complete ride list page.

UNLOCKED TIP: Most places, including the official site, will tell you that you have to use your park ticket to open a locker. But it’s just not true. Your room key card works just as well. What can we say? These are the extremely high level insider tips you find at Universal Unlocked.

UNLOCKED TIP: Send one (1) person from your party into the ride locker areas because they get really crowded. On busy park days, an attendant will usually prohibit more than one (1) person from entering the areas.

UNLOCKED TIP: Don’t waste your time on Fast & Furious: Supercharged. No ride has ever been so universally hated, and there are constant rumors that it will be replaced. Rip Ride Rockit is another rumored closure in the offing. Both rank at the bottom of our rides and attractions review. Coincidence??

UPDATE: Turns out these are related! What a small world! Rip Ride Rockit is now permanently closed to make way for a new attraction. On January 20, 2026, Universal announced that Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift (a high thrill coaster) will replace Rip Ride Rockit, which will trigger the closing of Fast & Furious Supercharged. All this is happening in 2027. No word on what will replace Supercharged yet. Catch every update on the new experience on our News & Updates page.

UNLOCKED TIP: Skull Island: Reign of Kong has a 36-inch height requirement, and … we can sort of see why a kid could ride this ride, but don’t be so busy thinking about could that you forget about should. Do not take your small child on this ride. We don’t even ride it. It’s scary.

UNLOCKED TIP: Storm Force Accelatron doesn’t have a height requirement, but we find that weird to be honest! It’s the fast spinning one that every amusement park has a version of. The one with carts that spin while attached to three sets of circles that all spin while the whole thing spins. This doesn’t seem appropriate for a baby. But do you, Islands of Adventure.

UNLOCKED TIP: Every single ride at both theme parks (Volcano Bay does not offer child swap) are either kid-oriented or feature the child swap option. Our favorite child swap is at Jurassic World VelociCoaster. It is comfy. Like a little daycare center with TVs and toys back there.

UNLOCKED TIP: Hit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter rides at meal times. The lines are usually slightly shorter when most people are noshing.

What You Need at the Parks

UNLOCKED TIP: Go to your hotel Universal merch store (they all have one) and get a Universal Orlando lanyard before you hit the parks. Lanyards are also available at any shop at the resort and most of the kiosks. Store both your room key and your park ticket in your lanyard pouch(es). Back in the day the pouches were clear and you could store both in one pouch. Add it to the wish list.

UNLOCKED TIP: Protect your health at the parks. Drink enough water, limit alcohol consumption, remember to stop and eat, and remember to take breaks out of the sun.

UNLOCKED TIP: There is a first aid station at each of Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, EPIC Universe, and Volcano Bay. There is also a Health Services main station in Universal Studios Florida. Ask the nearest park employee to guide you.

UNLOCKED TIP: In the Universal Orlando app, at the top right corner of each attraction or restaurant, there is a ❤️ to click on to add that attraction or restaurant to your “favorites” list. Then if you visit the “profile” tab and click on favorites, a curated map and list of just your preferred attractions and restaurants will populate.

UNLOCKED TIP: Given that our main author has severe food allergies, mobile ordering made us very nervous at first. But there is an option to add an “allergen note” to your order before submitting it. When you do, someone from the kitchen staff will come and speak to you directly about how to make your order safe.

UNLOCKED TIP: Remember to search for and use park Wi-Fi on your phone. It’s reliable and will save you a lot of data usage.

UNLOCKED TIP: Make sure to bring credit/debit cards to the parks. Cards and ApplePay are accepted almost everywhere, and some places are cashless now.

Hidden Gems

UNLOCKED TIP: There is memorabilia from past Universal Orlando rides scattered throughout the parks. From Jaws, to Twister, to Back to the Future, they are always fun to stumble upon. Read about the evolution of Universal Orlando Resort attractions here.

UNLOCKED TIP: Postcards are available for purchase in most places. You can buy packs of specially themed Wizarding World of Harry Potter postcards and mail them back home from the Dervish and Banges Owl Post in Hogsmeade. They will even postmark your letters with the Hogsmeade stamp!

UNLOCKED TIP: Across the street from Ollivander’s in Diagon Alley is a place called Shutterbuttons. Drop in to pick up an unforgettable, one of a kind souvenir.

UNLOCKED TIP: Purchase a Coke Freestyle Mug at your earliest convenience so you’re able to use the many locations for free refills throughout your trip. Access to ice and water at the refilling stations is always free.

A nice feature of the Coke Freestyle refillable mugs is that refilling stations with ice and tons of drink options—including water—are available all over the parks. But if you want to bring your own water bottle (or buy a plastic bottle of water and reuse), you can use the freestyle stations to get water and ice refills for free.

Beware of the downside of the Coke Freestyle Mug. It’s not a big one, but it is worth mentioning. The mugs are tall and will not fit in small ride lockers without turning them sideways. Each time you ride a ride you will have to pour out the contents to store the mug, and then refill once you stop using the locker. There are multiple liquid disposal locations next to all locker stations for this express purpose.

UNLOCKED TIP: Make sure to visit the Universal Store at CityWalk. It has merch no other Universal store does. The Harry Potter merch is especially excellent.

On Site Hotel Benefits

UNLOCKED TIP: Ask the cashier to send any purchases you make at any place in Universal Orlando Resort back to your hotel, and they will take them off your hands right there, for free. Your bags will usually show up in your hotel room the next day, unless you make a purchase super early in the morning. Given this, it’s inadvisable to use this service the day before or the day you leave. Your merch will not make it back to the hotel in time.

UNLOCKED TIP: The Universal Express Pass Unlimited is valued anywhere from $120–$330 per day. At certain times this can be the entire price of your stay per night. Totally worth it.

UNLOCKED TIP: You can—and should—hotel hop. Every hotel is its own highly immersive experience worth checking out.

UNLOCKED TIP: Every pool at Universal Orlando Resort is heated to 80 degrees throughout the year. Bring your suit year round.

UNLOCKED TIP: You do not have to show proof that you’re a guest of a specific hotel—or any on site hotel—to traverse Universal Orlando via the river. Hop on at CityWalk and explore any of the four (4) hotels along the scenic waterway. (Six (6) if you count Aventura and Cabana Bay, and we think you should.)

UNLOCKED TIP: While the Aventura Hotel does not include water taxi service, Sapphire Falls Resort, which does, is right next door on the same property. (Remember that you don’t have to be a guest at the hotel to ride their water taxi.)

UNLOCKED TIP: While the Aventura Hotel is not located along the river, it is a stone’s throw from Sapphire Falls Resort, which is. So add 3 to 5 minutes and it actually is on the walking path. Same with Cabana Bay Beach Resort, but add 5 to 10 minutes.

UNLOCKED TIP: If you’re staying at Cabana Bay Beach Resort, skip the bus and use the dedicated walking path between Volcano Bay and Cabana Bay.

UNLOCKED TIP: The Helios Grand Hotel is slotted in the Signature Collection, but it doesn’t quite fit in the premier or preferred categories. Like other premier hotels, it features a club level and luxury suites. But unlike other premier hotels, it does not include the unlimited express pass or restaurant priority seating.

UNLOCKED TIP: While it is true that the celiac safe options across Universal Orlando Resort are amazing, we are particularly fond of the dietary accommodations at Sapphire Falls.

UNLOCKED TIP: Despite having the most amenities between the two, Dockside Inn and Suites is consistently cheaper than Surfside Inn and Suites. In case you’re stuck choosing between the two Endless Summer Resorts.

Universal Unlocked FAQ

All your questions about Universal Orlando, answered right here.

Theme Parks

Can you do Universal Orlando theme parks in one day?

Hmmm. Depends on what you mean by “do.” Read our thoughts here.

What tickets should I buy to visit Universal Orlando?

Read about them here.

Do Universal Orlando theme parks have a fast pass?

Yes! Universal Orlando’s version is called the Universal Express Pass. Read about how to get one, how much it costs, and whether it’s worth it, here.

Does Universal Orlando offer annual passes?

Yes. Read about them here.

Can you park hop at the Universal Orlando theme parks?

Yes, with a park-to-park ticket.

How much are VIP Passes at Universal Orlando?

Pricing starts at $310. Read more here.

What is Early Park Admission?

Early Park Admission at Universal Orlando Resort allows guests to enter select theme parks up to one hour before the official opening time. This perk is available to Universal hotel guests and select ticket holders, such as Annual Passholders (depending on pass level) and certain vacation packages.

The specific park(s) and attractions available for Early Park Admission vary daily but typically include major rides like Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts (Universal Studios Florida) and Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure (Islands of Adventure). Guests should check the official Universal Orlando website for the latest schedule and eligible attractions.

How much is Universal Orlando theme park parking?

Read about Universal Orlando parking here.

What is Halloween Horror Nights?

Find out here.

What is the Mardi Gras celebration at Universal Orlando?

Find out here.

Can I get butterbeer at Universal Orlando?

Of course! Explore The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ here.

What is EPIC Universe?

Universal EPIC Universe is the newest theme park at Universal Orlando Resort. It opened May 22, 2025, along with three (3) new on site hotels that also opened in 2025. All four (4) are located on the new Universal Orlando south campus.

Can I re-enter the Universal Orlando theme parks?

Yes.

Do the Universal Orlando theme parks have storage lockers?

Yes.

Are the Universal Orlando theme parks accessible?

Yes.

Can I bring outside food and drink into the Universal Orlando theme parks?

Sometimes.

Do the Universal Orlando theme parks have free water?

Yes. CocaCola Freestyle stations litter the parks. Ice and water is free.

Can I wear my Harry Potter robes to the Universal Orlando theme parks?

Yes. It’s encouraged!

Can I get sorted at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter?

No. Unfortunately that is not part of the Wizarding World experience. But there are voluminous other wonderful things to do, including participating in a wand ceremony at Ollivander’s if you want.

Will I fit on the Universal Orlando rides?

There is a test seat outside every ride with size restrictions. We highly recommend ensuring you can safely fit on the ride, so that you don’t waste time in the queue if you can’t.

Can you smoke inside the Universal Studios theme parks?

Yes. There are designated smoking areas inside the parks and at the on site hotels.

The Resort

Does it rain in Orlando?

Yes. You may find some completely sunny days. We definitely have. But it’s best to always expect scattered showers.

Is there a shuttle from the airport to Universal Orlando?

Yes.

Do I have to walk everywhere at Universal Orlando Resort?

No.

How big is Universal Orlando Resort?

Universal Orlando Resort spans approximately 1300 acres. The resort includes three (3) theme parks—Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure, and Universal’s EPIC Universe, and one (1) water park, Universal Volcano Bay—along with the Universal CityWalk entertainment district and eleven (11) on site hotels. While smaller than Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando continues to expand. All three (3) theme parks have ongoing expansions in 2026. Click here to check out our news & updates page. We update a couple times a week with every update and piece of news out of Universal Orlando.

How many theme parks are at Universal Orlando Resort?

Universal Orlando consists of three (3) theme parks, Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure, and Universal EPIC Universe, and one (1) water park, Volcano Bay. Universal EPIC Universe opened May 22, 2025. Read more here.

When did Universal Orlando Resort open?

Universal Studios Florida first opened as a single theme park in 1990. Read more about how it became the Universal Orlando Resort of today here.

How many days should I spend at Universal Orlando Resort?

Well, we have some thoughts on that.

When are the best and worst times to visit Universal Orlando Resort?

Turns out we have some thoughts on that, too.

Does Universal Orlando Resort celebrate any holidays?

Yep. Halloween Horror Nights is globally iconic and draws the biggest crowds, but the resort also celebrates Christmas and Mardi Gras. There are other various special events throughout the year. Read more here. And get our complete Christmas guide here.

Is Universal Orlando open in the winter?

Of course. It’s Florida. The weather is perfect in the winter. Plus Universal Orlando celebrates the holidays in November and December, and Mardi Gras in February and March. But bring a jacket because it does get nippy at night.

Is Universal Orlando Resort kid friendly?

Of course!

Is Universal Orlando pet friendly?

Kind of!

What methods of payment are accepted by Universal Orlando Resort?

All types. Some places are cashless, so make sure you have cards or touch pay. But cash is accepted some places, and you will need it for traditional tipping. So it’s a good idea to have that with you as well.

What is Universal Orlando Resort’s cancellation policy?

Theme park tickets, once purchased, are non-refundable. But extreme weather (e.g., hurricanes) may allow for rescheduling hotels and ticket bookings and waived change fees. Read more here.

Can you hotel hop at Universal Orlando Resort?

Yes. And you should! Each on site hotel is its own immersive experience worth exploring.

Does Universal Orlando Resort have a dining plan?

Not anymore.

What should I eat at Universal Orlando Resort?

A better question might be “what shouldn’t I eat at Universal Orlando?”

Do I need dining reservations?

Dining reservations are not strictly necessary, but if you can manage it they are always a good idea. Especially for Mythos Restaurant and the Toothsome Chocolate Emporium and Savory Feast Kitchen.

Does Universal Orlando Resort sell alcohol?

Yes. Alcoholic beverages are for sale throughout the resort, including the theme parks, CityWalk Orlando, and all on site hotels.

Are the pools heated at Universal Orlando Resort?

Yes. Both Volcano Bay attractions and on site hotel pools are heated to 80 degrees year round.

On Site Hotels

Which on site hotels have suites?

Signature Collection hotels all have luxury suites and kid-themed rooms, including Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel Orlando, Loews Royal Pacific Resort, Loews Sapphire Falls Resort, and the Universal Helios Grand Hotel. Read more about on site hotels here.

Which on site hotels are closest to the Universal Orlando theme parks?

Every north campus hotel is within walking distance of the north campus parks. Every south campus hotel is within walking distance of EPIC Universe.

Does Amazon deliver to on site hotels?

Yes. You can pick up packages either at the front desk or at the business center.

Conclusion: Universal Orlando Planning Guide 2026

If you’ve made it this far, congratulations. You’ve finished War and Peace. Just kidding, it’s not that long. But it is quite long because we wanted to offer up the most comprehensive Universal Studios Planning Guide for 2026 that you will find out there anywhere.

We tried to cover everything you could possibly need to know, along with lots of helpful links. However, if you have any remaining questions or notice topics that we didn’t cover, please reach out to us! Our contact info can be found here, as well as at the bottom of this page, and you can also reach out to us on our Instagram page! Thanks for reading. We hope you have the best time at our favorite place on earth!

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