Many travelers flock to Orlando for Disney, but Universal Orlando is a theme park experience that should not be overlooked. After spending a few days there with my family, I compiled a list of the top ten things first-time visitors should know to get the most out of their Universal vacation.

Top 10 Things To Know When Planning Your First Universal Vacation

1. Three Theme Parks, Endless Fun

   Universal Orlando is made up of three parks:
   Universal Studios Florida,
   Islands of Adventure, and
   Volcano Bay. From Diagon Alley to Jurassic Park to incredible water rides, there’s something for everyone.

2. Single Park or Park-to-Park Ticket?

   If you want to ride the Hogwarts Express between Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, you’ll need a Park-to-Park ticket. Your ticket will be checked before boarding at King’s Cross or Hogsmeade stations.

3. Universal Express Pass vs. Universal Unlimited Express

   The Express Pass lets you skip regular lines once per ride per day, while the Unlimited version allows multiple skips per ride. Guests staying at Premier hotels receive Unlimited Express for free (a ~$129 value).

4. On-Site vs. Off-Site Hotels

   Universal has hotels for every budget:

   • Value Hotels: Budget-friendly and great for Volcano Bay access. Examples: Aventura Hotel, Cabana Bay Beach Resort.
   • Preferred Hotels: Mid-tier, closer to the parks. Example: Loews Sapphire Falls Resort.
   • Premier Hotels: Luxury perks, complimentary Unlimited Express, water taxi service. Examples: Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Portofino Bay.

5. Ticket Add-Ons

   Enhance your trip with extras like the Blue Man Group, VIP tours, Marvel character dinners, and photo packages.

6. Dining Plans

   Universal offers dining plans, but they work differently than Disney’s. You can also purchase a Coca-Cola Freestyle souvenir cup for unlimited refills (about $16 for the first day, $8 each additional day). Bringing your own snacks is allowed, and there are plenty of snack carts around the parks.

7. CityWalk

   CityWalk is the hub for dining, shopping, and nightlife. Don’t miss VooDoo Doughnut or the Toothsome Chocolate Emporium.

8. Traveling With Small Kids?

   Despite its thrill-ride reputation, Universal offers plenty for young kids: Seuss Landing, Woody Woodpecker’s Kids Zone, and child swap options so parents can enjoy rides while little ones wait.

9. What to Bring

   Pack light. Most major rides require you to store bags in lockers, and all bags are checked at security. Essentials include sunscreen, ponchos, and portable chargers.

10. Why Use a Travel Advisor for Tickets?

    Tickets booked through a travel advisor include early park entry (1-hour before general admission), a perk not available through Universal’s site.

If you’re a Universal veteran and have tips for first-time visitors, share them in the comments below!

Ready to plan your Universal Orlando vacation? Contact me and let’s start building your adventure.