Once you’ve selected your flight, hotel, and car, it’s time to plan how to get the most out of your Universal Studios Orlando Package. Here are some insider tips and recommendations to help you make the most of your trip:
1. Plan Your Park Days Strategically
Universal Orlando Resort includes three major parks: Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure, and Universal’s Volcano Bay. If your trip spans multiple days, it’s a good idea to dedicate a full day to each park to ensure you experience all the highlights. For shorter trips, consider purchasing park-to-park tickets to explore multiple parks in one day, allowing you to ride the famous Hogwarts Express between parks.
2. Take Advantage of Early Park Admission
Guests staying at on-site hotels with Universal Studios Orlando Packages often get the benefit of early park admission. Arriving before the general crowd allows you to experience popular attractions with minimal wait times. Head straight to top rides like Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey or Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure to avoid long lines later in the day.
3. Consider Purchasing an Express Pass
To maximize your time, especially during peak seasons, it’s worth adding a Universal Express Pass to your package. This pass allows you to skip regular lines at most attractions, saving you time and letting you enjoy more of the park without waiting.
4. Dining Recommendations
Universal Studios Orlando offers an array of dining experiences, from quick-service meals to themed restaurants. If you’re a Harry Potter fan, don’t miss dining at Three Broomsticks or The Leaky Cauldron. For a sit-down meal, consider Mythos Restaurant, frequently ranked as one of the best theme park restaurants. Many Universal Studios Orlando Packages can include dining plans, which help streamline your meals and save money.
5. Best Times to Visit
If you’re flexible with your dates, the best times to visit Universal Studios Orlando are during non-peak seasons. Crowds are typically lighter in January through early March and September through early November, making these ideal months to book your Universal Studios Orlando Package. Visiting during these times also often means more affordable prices for both tickets and hotels.
6. Pack Smart and Stay Hydrated
Bring essentials like sunscreen, hats, and refillable water bottles to stay comfortable throughout the day. Lockers are available at certain rides, but carrying a small backpack with your necessities can make your park experience smoother. Additionally, look for water refill stations throughout the parks to stay hydrated.