Universal Orlando Resort
Universal Orlando Resort in Orlando, Florida was once only a one-day excursion for visitors. Now, it’s a three park destination in its own right, impossible to experience in only one day, that hails visitors from around the world. As the park continues to grow in popularity it’s all the more important to plan your trip to capitalize on your time there and make the most of it! This article will give you a few helpful tips to do just that. Here is a list of a few things to keep in mind first as you plan your trip:
- To find out about the latest health and safety guidelines click here.
- Park Hours vary so click here for the up to date hours.
- Click here for a downloadable map or a interactive digital map to get a visual of the park
Now, let’s get into the Universal Express, their system whereby guests can skip long lines and experience attractions via a special line with little or no waiting. Where you’ll see that Disney World’s system requires scheduling your ride reservation hours or days ahead of time, Universal Express involves no advance planning; simply visit any eligible operating attraction whenever you choose, no return time windows required. The Express pass is an effective, though expensive, way to avoid long lines at the headliner attractions, especially during holidays and busy times. Go here for the latest prices and rides that participate.
Universal Studios 3 Parks
Universal Studios Florida: It will fling you into the brand-new worlds of today’s hottest entertainment, from the biggest television shows and movie franchises to the latest music and more. Join Dom, Letty, Hobbs and the Fast & Furious family on a heart-pounding new ride, Fast & Furious™–™Supercharged, now open. Encounter the mischievous Minions in Despicable Me Minion Mayhem. Step into the action of Revenge of the Mummy, The Simpsons Ride and Race through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon. From dazzling seasonal parades to music-filled street performances, you’ll find exciting live entertainment everywhere you turn at Universal Studios.
Universal’s Islands of Adventure: I only need say two words here: Harry Potter! Or maybe it is 6 words: The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter. There’s nothing like it and it is an experience not to miss, even if you’ve never read the books or watched the movies. You’ll find yourself on an unforgettable journey through the worlds of heroes, myths and legends at Universal’s Islands of Adventure with a wand in one hand and butter beer in the other before you know it. Plus, the Islands of Adventure also features comic book streets of Marvel Super Hero Island and the jungles of Jurassic Park. Jurassic World VelociCoaster was even voted best new attraction in 2021! So as you can see, this park offers a once-in-a-lifetime adventure around every corner.
Universal’s Volcano Bay: It’s unlike anything you’ve experienced before — a water theme park only Universal could create. Universal’s Volcano Bay is the third amazing theme park at Universal Orlando Resort, a tropical paradise where thrills and relaxation flow in perfect harmony. Look up — way up — believe me, you cant miss it! The 200 foot tall Krakatau volcano towers over you in a majestic and tropical setting. Settled by the legendary Waturi people and guided by their philosophy, “Water Is Life. Life Is Joy,” this water theme park offers equal measures of intense action and tranquil serenity, coupled by resort-level amenities, food and beverages with a South Pacific vibe. It has everything from lazy rivers to thrilling and exciting slides. There is no wrong way to enjoy the island life at Universal’s Volcano Bay.
Universal Eats
Let me now suggest some popular food items that you should definitely try on your visit.
- Butterbeer: It’s non-alcoholic and tastes like a cream soda with hints of butterscotch. It’s served in three forms; one like a regular soda, one hot, and the other frozen. Plus, they also serve a Butterbeer Soft Serve Ice Cream too!
- Giant Pretzel: this is an all-time favorite at the NBC Sports Restaurant. It comes out from the kitchen salty and warm and hanging on a hockey stick stand.
- Wood Oven Flatbread: Mythos Restaurant has lots of good food options and an atmosphere that gives you a break from the park. Their Wood Oven Flatbread with bacon, cheese, artichoke hearts, olives and a yummy roasted red pepper sauce is a must try food.
- Chocolate x5 Chocolate Emporium Milkshake: creamy chocolaty goodness in a milkshake really does top the charts. It’s huge and comes topped with mounds of whipped cream and strawberries. It’s highly recommended to share because it’s HUGE.
Universal Rides
Now it’s time to look for the best and most popular rides in each park.
Universal Studios park features the “Studio Tour” which takes you on a 45 minute ride back through old classic movies to more contemporary favorites. You experience everything from a reenactment of shark attacks to battles with King Kong and dinosaurs. The Fast & Furious – Supercharged finale of this ride is quite a way to end flying at what feels like 120mph! Another premier attraction in this park is TRANSFORMERS (a 3D ride) where you help save the galaxy in a visually dazzling and high action way like you’ve never seen before!
Universal’s Islands of Adventure features two of the most popular rides in the whole park. First is the “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” ride that takes you inside the Hogwarts Castle. This wild romp an airborne Quidditch match, alarmingly close encounters with Death Eaters, and more memorable Harry moments. The second ride and the newest added to Harry Potter World is Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. This rollercoaster ride soars deep into the wilds of the Forbidden Forest, beyond the grounds of Hogwarts castle, and plunges into the paths of some of the wizarding world’s rarest magical creatures. Meanwhile in Jurassic World the Velocicoaster is one of the best new rides in Orlando – it’s a massive, high-speed coaster that is unlike any other. This ride is not for the faint of heart! With barrel rolls, extreme drops and two intense launch sequences, this coaster is bound to get your adrenaline pumping! Velocicoaster opened in June of 2021 and one of the most popular Universal attractions to date.
Universal’s Volcano Bay features an incredible ride called Ko’okiri Body Plunge where you fall 70-degrees through a trapdoor and descend 125ft to a watery tribute. It is a lung workout like you have never experienced! If thrills are your thing, make this your first ride of the day when the park opens since the Universal Express Pass in not accepted at this ride and its popularity ensures long lines as the day grows!
