Universal Orlando Resort entrance with globe

Epic Adventures Await

Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Orlando Resort is home to thrilling rides, incredible dining, and the all-new Epic Universe. From the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to the newest attractions, we plan every moment so your vacation is seamless. We help with ticket options, Express Pass strategies, on-site hotel perks, and insider tips to maximize your time in the parks.

What We Handle for You

  • Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and Epic Universe planning
  • Express Pass and ticket strategy for shorter wait times
  • On-site hotel selection with exclusive park benefits
  • Dining recommendations from quick-service to fine dining
  • Customized itineraries for families, couples, and groups

Where to Stay

Universal Orlando offers eight on-site hotels across three tiers. Premier hotels (Royal Pacific, Hard Rock, Portofino Bay) include complimentary Express Unlimited passes, which alone can save $200+ per person per day. Preferred hotels (Aventura, Sapphire Falls) offer Early Park Admission. Prime Value hotels (Endless Summer Surfside and Dockside) provide the lowest rates with Early Park Admission. The new Helios Grand Hotel inside Epic Universe offers the closest access to the newest park. All on-site hotels include complimentary transportation to the parks, early park admission, and the ability to charge to your room.

Best Time to Visit

The best times to visit Universal Orlando are mid-January through mid-February, September, and early December. Summer and holiday periods see peak crowds, especially with the opening of Epic Universe. Weekdays are significantly less crowded than weekends year-round.

What to Do

Universal Orlando now features three theme parks. Universal Studios Florida is home to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter's Diagon Alley, Transformers, and the Bourne Stuntacular. Islands of Adventure features Hogsmeade (ride the Hogwarts Express between parks), Jurassic World VelociCoaster, and Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. Epic Universe is the newest park with five immersive worlds including Super Nintendo World, a new Wizarding World experience, and How to Train Your Dragon. Volcano Bay water theme park, CityWalk dining and entertainment district, and seasonal events like Halloween Horror Nights round out the experience.

Dining

Universal's dining ranges from themed quick-service to upscale restaurants. The Three Broomsticks and Leaky Cauldron serve Wizarding World staples like Butterbeer and shepherd's pie. Mythos Restaurant at Islands of Adventure is consistently rated one of the best theme park restaurants in the world. At CityWalk, Toothsome Chocolate Emporium, Bigfire, and Vivo Italian Kitchen offer diverse options without requiring park admission. On-site hotels feature their own restaurants, including Jake's American Bar at Royal Pacific and The Kitchen at Hard Rock Hotel.

Insider Tips

  • 1Stay at a Universal Premier hotel (Royal Pacific, Hard Rock, or Portofino Bay) for complimentary Express Unlimited passes, which can save you hundreds in Express Pass purchases.
  • 2Visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter first thing in the morning or in the last two hours before closing for the shortest waits.
  • 3The Hogwarts Express connects Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, and requires a Park-to-Park or 3-Park ticket to ride.
  • 4Mobile ordering is available at most quick-service restaurants. Use it during peak meal times to save 30-45 minutes.
  • 5With Epic Universe now open, plan for at least 3 full park days to experience all three Universal parks without feeling rushed.

Planning Timeline

Book 3-6 months in advance for hotel and tickets. Annual passholder sales and seasonal ticket promotions are worth watching for. Express Pass can be purchased in advance or at the gate.

Budget Tip

Universal's Value and Prime Value hotels (Endless Summer Surfside and Dockside) offer excellent rates with Early Park Admission included. For the best Express Pass value, a Premier hotel stay often costs less than buying Express Passes separately.

Frequently Asked Questions

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