trip to disney world and universal studios

How to Combine a Disney World and Universal Orlando Vacation

Tips for a great disney world and universal orlando vacation, by siera duiser of destinations in florida, family travel destinations.

Disney World (Flickr: Sean Yu)

Orlando is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, especially for families. With fantastic theme parks, great shopping, and varied dining, there’s something for every member of the family to enjoy. Two of the most popular vacation spots are the Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort . With only a limited number of vacation days, many families wonder how they can fit a visit to both of these destinations in one trip. The good news is that it may be easier than you think!

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Park-to-park tickets

Hogwarts at Universal Studios (Flickr: Jeff Kays)

If your kids (or you) love Harry Potter, you won’t want to miss a visit to Universal Orlando Resort. With the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade , the Wizarding World of Diagon Alley , and Hogwarts Express connecting the two lands, this is the ultimate treat for Harry Potter fans.

You can purchase a one or two-day park-to-park ticket to Universal Orlando that includes round-trip transportation to and from your Disney World hotel. This is a great option for families who are relying on Disney transportation throughout their stay or just want to sit back and let someone else worry about driving and parking. This is an affordable way to get to visit Universal Orlando and all of the great attractions in a short stay or just to experience the parks for the first time.

Hogwarts Express at Universal’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter (Flickr: Anna Fox)

If you have a little extra time, you can spend a few days at Universal Orlando Resort, enjoying both theme parks and Citywalk entertainment district. We generally recommend three days in the Universal Orlando theme parks. With the park-to-park ticket, you have access to both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure each day. Plus, a park-to-park ticket is required to ride Hogwarts Express.

Accommodation

Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort (Universal Orlando)

CHECK HOTEL PRICE

Universal Orlando currently has four on-site resorts, with a fifth opening in summer 2016. Loews Royal Pacific Resort , Hard Rock Hotel , and Loews Portofino Bay Hotel are the on-site three deluxe resorts which include complimentary unlimited Universal Express Pass for your party throughout your stay. This can be a great savings, both in time and money! The fourth on-site hotel, Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort , is the most economical option and offers both standard rooms as well as family suites for larger families traveling together.

( MORE: Find more terrific kid-friendly hotels in Orlando.)

Easy transfer

If you are wondering how to get to Universal without having to rent a car, there is a Take 2 Transfer available that will pick you up from your Disney World hotel to take you to one of Universal’s four on-site hotels and then come back to take you back to Orlando International Airport at the end of your stay. The shuttle is also available if you would prefer to start your vacation at Universal Orlando by picking you up at Orlando International Airport, taking you to your Universal hotel, and then driving you over to your Disney World hotel for the rest of your vacation. Although Disney offers Magical Express , complimentary transportation to and from Orlando International Airport, airport transfers are not included with a Universal Orlando vacation. The Take 2 Transfer makes it easier than ever to combine a Disney World and Universal Orlando vacation!

Siera Duiser of Destinations in Florida contributed this to MiniTime .

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Ultimate Planning Guide: Universal Studios and Disney World

Unlock the magic of both universal studios and disney world with this ultimate guide, packed with insider tips, park overviews, and tailored advice for families, ensuring your adventure is as enchanting and seamless as possible.

Disney World vs Universal Studios. Which is better? Can you go to both? Diving into the heart of Central Florida’s theme park wonderland often sparks a common mix-up among first-timers and seasoned adventurers alike: the enchanting realms of Universal Studios Orlando and the magical kingdoms of Disney World. No, you won’t find Butterbeer at Disney World, but you can find Dole Whip! Despite both being titans of entertainment, brimming with beloved characters, thrilling rides, and immersive worlds, they stand as distinct entities, each offering its own unique brand of magic and adventure.

As a proud pass holder to these iconic destinations, I’ve navigated the spellbinding streets of Diagon Alley, soared with Guardians of the Galaxy, and embarked on epic journeys through Jurassic Park and the African savannah of Disney’s Animal Kingdom. 

With countless visits to both Universal and Disney parks under my belt, I’ve come to appreciate the nuances that set them apart, as well as the shared joy they bring to millions. Join me as I unravel the mysteries and share personal insights into making the most of your time in these world-class theme parks, ensuring your Disney World vacation or Universal Orlando Resort adventure is nothing short of spectacular.

Walt Disney World Resort: A Quartet of Dreamlands

Within the heart of Walt Disney World Resort lies a constellation of four uniquely themed parks, each offering its own magical experience. Magic Kingdom, with its iconic Cinderella Castle, transports guests into a world where fairy tales spring to life, featuring timeless attractions and the beloved characters that define Disney magic.

Epcot stands as a tribute to human innovation and international culture, split between the futuristic wonders of Future World and the global festivities of the World Showcase. Here, guests can embark on a culinary and cultural journey around the globe, all within a few steps of each other.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios invites you into the golden age of cinema, where Hollywood dreams are the main act. It’s home to some of Disney’s most thrilling attractions, including the immersive Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and the adrenaline-pumping Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. The park encapsulates the glamour, excitement, and magic of the movies, offering guests a starring role in their own Hollywood adventure.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom blends the thrills of a theme park with the wonder of a zoo, creating an unparalleled experience where guests can explore exotic landscapes, encounter wild animals, and dive into adventures like the awe-inspiring Avatar Flight of Passage in Pandora – The World of Avatar.

Disney World Water Parks

The enchantment of Disney World extends to its water parks, Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon, each offering a splash-tastic escape from the Florida heat. Blizzard Beach, with its frosty theme, offers water slides and attractions for the whole family, from the thrilling Summit Plummet to the tranquil Cross Country Creek. Typhoon Lagoon, themed after a tropical paradise hit by a typhoon, features attractions like the surf-ready waves of the Typhoon Lagoon Surf Pool and the family-friendly Crush ‘n’ Gusher water coaster.

Together, these parks and water parks make up the Walt Disney World Resort, a sprawling destination where dreams come true, adventures abound, and memories are made to last a lifetime. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of roller coasters, the joy of meeting beloved characters, or the relaxation of a lazy river, Disney World offers a diverse array of experiences that cater to guests of all ages, from small children and young kids to adults, ensuring that every visit is as magical as the first.

Universal Orlando Resort: Epic Adventures Await

With two adrenaline-pumping theme parks and a water park, Universal Parks is the ultimate playground for movie buffs and thrill rides. Universal Studios Florida brings the magic of the movies to life, allowing guests to step into iconic films and TV shows. Highlights include The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley, where you can board the Hogwarts Express, and the high-octane excitement of Fast & Furious – Supercharged.

Universal’s Islands of Adventure is where the adventure truly amplifies, offering groundbreaking attractions like the Jurassic World VelociCoaster and the immersive experiences within The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade. It’s a park where comic book heroes, legendary beasts, and storybook characters leap off the pages.

Not to be overlooked, Universal’s Volcano Bay water park offers an oasis of exhilarating slides, a wave pool, and the blissful winding rivers of a tropical paradise, making it a perfect retreat from the thrills of the theme parks.

Whether you’re drawn to the fairy-tale enchantment of Disney parks or the cinematic thrills of Universal, these world-class theme parks in the Orlando area offer something for everyone—from young children and older children to adults looking to relive their favorite stories. Each park provides its unique set of attractions, characters, and experiences, making them must-visit destinations for any theme park enthusiast.

Key Differences That Define Each Magical Universe

The thematic essence of Disney World and Universal Theme Parks serve as the cornerstone of their distinct identities. Disney World is synonymous with magical fairy-tale realms, where each park is a gateway to worlds brimming with enchantment, classic Disney storytelling, and encounters with characters that have captured hearts for generations. From the moment you step into Magic Kingdom, you’re transported into a narrative woven with the threads of childhood dreams, where princesses and pirates coexist and every corner holds a story waiting to unfold.

In contrast, Universal Orlando Resort pulsates with the adrenaline of action-packed movie and adventure themes. It’s a place where cinematic thrills leap off the screen and into reality, offering guests the chance to step into the shoes of their favorite movie heroes. Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure are lands of epic storytelling, where you can face the dinosaurs of “Jurassic Park,” cast spells in “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter,” or join the ranks of superheroes in Marvel’s dynamic universe.

The parks also differ in their iconic attractions and experiences. Disney’s hallmark experiences like the enchanting “Cinderella Castle” at Magic Kingdom or the innovative “Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge” at Disney’s Hollywood Studios contrast with Universal’s high-octane rides like the “Jurassic World VelociCoaster” or the immersive “Diagon Alley.” These attractions underscore the fundamental thematic differences, offering guests varied experiences rooted in the essence of each brand.

Character encounters and immersive lands further highlight the divergence between the two. Disney World is a haven for those seeking interactions with timeless characters from a vast library of classic films and newer hits, set within meticulously themed lands. Universal, on the other hand, offers a more adrenaline-fueled approach, with lands and characters drawn from blockbuster hits and legendary tales, providing an altogether different flavor of immersion.

Notable Similarities That Bind the Magic Together

Despite their differences, both Universal Orlando Resort and Disney World share several notable similarities that elevate the guest experience. High-quality, immersive attractions and entertainment are a hallmark of both, showcasing cutting-edge technology, intricate theming, and storytelling that engages guests of all ages, from the young children marveling at the magic to older children and adults seeking thrills.

Seasonal events and celebrations at both resorts transform the parks throughout the year, offering unique experiences like Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party and Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights or Mardi Gras celebrations. These events add layers of excitement and novelty, making each visit distinct and memorable.

Both resorts have also embraced advanced reservation systems and line-skipping options to enhance guest convenience and maximize enjoyment. Disney’s FastPass+ (transitioning to individual Lightning Lanes) and Universal’s Express Pass system allow visitors to bypass long lines for popular attractions, ensuring that more time is spent making memories rather than waiting.

In essence, while Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort each offer a distinct universe of experiences rooted in their iconic themes and characters, they converge in their commitment to high-quality entertainment, immersive experiences, and guest convenience, making them both must-visit destinations for anyone venturing into the heart of Central Florida’s theme park paradise.

Maximizing the Magic – Tips for Tackling Both Parks

Embarking on an adventure through both Universal Orlando Resort and Walt Disney World Resort is a thrilling prospect, filled with endless possibilities. To ensure your journey through these world-class theme parks is as magical and efficient as possible, a bit of strategic planning is key.

Planning Your Visit for Enchanted Experiences

When to Visit: To avoid the throngs of fellow enthusiasts and long lines, consider visiting during the off-peak seasons. Typically, late winter (after the holiday rush) and early fall (before the Halloween festivities begin) are great times to explore the parks with fewer crowds. Keeping an eye on the school calendar can also guide you, as parks tend to be less crowded when kids are in session.

Park-Hopper and Multi-Day Passes: Both Disney World and Universal Orlando offer options that allow you to explore multiple parks within their resorts. Disney’s Park Hopper option and Universal’s Park-to-Park ticket can maximize your experience, giving you the freedom to move between parks in a single day. For extended stays, consider multi-day passes, which reduce the daily cost of your adventure and allow you to take in the parks at a more leisurely pace.

Making the Most of Your Enchanted Journey

Strategic Attraction Planning: Start your day with a plan, targeting must-see attractions early in the morning or later in the evening when wait times tend to be shorter. Utilizing the My Disney Experience App and Universal Orlando’s official app can provide real-time wait times and park maps, helping you navigate efficiently. For select attractions, consider utilizing Disney’s Lightning Lane selections or Universal’s Express Pass to bypass standard lines.

Dining and Resting: To maintain energy and spirits, schedule breaks and dining times. Both Disney and Universal offer a variety of dining options, from quick-service to sit-down restaurants. Reservations are recommended for popular spots, especially in Disney parks. For rest, find quieter areas in each park or consider heading back to your hotel for a midday break, particularly if you have young children or older adults in your group.

Accommodation and Transportation: Seamless Transitions

Choosing Your Base: Staying at a Disney resort hotel or a Universal hotel can offer distinct advantages, including early park access and complimentary transportation to and from the parks. Consider a split stay if you’re dedicating several days to each resort, spending part of your trip at a Disney hotel and the remainder at a Universal property.

Navigating Between the Magic: If you’re venturing between Disney World and Universal Studios in a single day, personal vehicles or ride-sharing services offer the most flexibility. For those relying on public transportation, be sure to research shuttle services, which may be offered by your hotel. Planning your route and understanding the travel time can help ensure a smooth transition between these magical worlds.

By following these tips and embracing the adventure, your visit to Universal Orlando and Walt Disney World can be filled with joy, wonder, and cherished memories. Whether you’re marveling at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, embarking on a safari in Disney’s Animal Kingdom, or experiencing the thrills of epic roller coasters, your journey through these iconic parks will be nothing short of extraordinary.

Navigating the World of Wonders: Height Requirements and Age-Friendly Adventures

When planning a family getaway to the realms of Universal Studios and Disney World, understanding the lay of the land in terms of height requirements and age-appropriate attractions is key to ensuring a magical experience for all. Each park offers a unique tapestry of adventures, some soaring high into the skies for the thrill-seekers and others gently weaving through enchanting landscapes for the littlest of dreamers.

Height Requirements: What You Need to Know

Both Universal Studios and Disney World have specific height requirements for various attractions, designed with the safety and enjoyment of all guests in mind. Universal, known for its heart-pounding thrill rides like the “Jurassic World VelociCoaster” and “The Incredible Hulk Coaster,” tends to cater to those who meet higher height thresholds, making it a haven for teens and older children seeking adrenaline-fueled adventures.

Disney World, while also home to exhilarating rides like “Space Mountain” and “Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind,” offers a broader spectrum of attractions with lower or no height requirements, such as “It’s a Small World” and “Dumbo the Flying Elephant.” This makes Disney’s parks particularly enchanting for families with babies and young children, ensuring that even the tiniest guests can immerse themselves in the magic.

Choosing the Perfect Park for Your Family

For families with babies and young kids, Disney World often emerges as the shining star, with its myriad of gentle rides, captivating character encounters, and whimsical parades designed to delight guests of all ages. The parks overflow with opportunities for young children to see their favorite stories come to life, from the fairy-tale enchantment of Magic Kingdom to the wildlife adventures of Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

Universal Studios, with its dynamic portrayal of blockbuster hits and more intense rides, tends to resonate more with families with teens and older children. The allure of stepping into the shoes of a wizard in “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” or joining the ranks of superheroes in Universal’s Islands of Adventure holds a special appeal for those seeking immersive experiences and thrilling escapades.

Embracing the Adventure, Together

Ultimately, both Universal Studios and Disney World hold the promise of unforgettable family memories, whether it’s through the shared laughter on a gentle carousel ride or the collective gasps on a plummeting coaster. By considering the height requirements and the diverse array of attractions each park offers, families can tailor their adventure to ensure that every member, from the smallest to the tallest, experiences the full measure of magic these parks have to offer.

Insider Secrets for an Enchanted Experience

Embarking on a journey through the wonder-filled lands of Universal Orlando and Walt Disney World is an adventure like no other. As a seasoned pass holder and explorer of these magical realms, I’ve discovered a trove of insider secrets that can transform a great trip into an unforgettable voyage. Let me share some of these enchanted whispers with you, guiding you to personal favorite spots, hidden gems, and experiences that add an extra sprinkle of pixie dust to your adventure.

Discovering Hidden Treasures and Memorable Nooks

In every corner of Universal and Disney parks, there lies a hidden nook or a lesser-known gem waiting to be discovered. At Universal’s Islands of Adventure, the whimsical Seuss Landing harbors a delightful spot, “The Street of the Lifted Lorax,” where you can find a quiet bench to enjoy a moment of peace amidst the excitement. Over at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, the enchanting Maharajah Jungle Trek offers a serene walk through lush landscapes, where you can observe exotic animals and admire intricate murals, away from the bustling crowds.

Character Encounters and Spectacular Shows

Meeting beloved characters and basking in the spectacle of shows and parades are highlights of any theme park visit. To meet your favorite characters without the long waits, check the daily schedule for meet-and-greet times and locations, often available in the parks’ official apps. Early mornings or parade times can be opportune moments to find characters. At Universal Studios, don’t miss the chance to meet Marvel characters in Super Hero Island, a dream for comic book fans. Disney’s Hollywood Studios offers delightful encounters with Disney Junior stars, perfect for the younger kids in your party.

For parades and shows, finding the right spot is key. At Magic Kingdom, consider viewing parades from Frontierland for less crowded spots with great views. Universal’s cinematic shows, like the Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle, are best enjoyed from multiple vantage points, each offering a unique perspective on the magic.

Dining Delights: From Quick Bites to Culinary Journeys

Dining in the parks is an adventure in itself, with options ranging from quick snacks to immersive culinary experiences. For a memorable meal at Universal, Mythos Restaurant in Islands of Adventure offers not just delectable cuisine but also stunning views of the park’s landscapes. Disney Springs presents a world of dining options, like the bohemian-chic Enzo’s Hideaway, offering a cozy escape with an exquisite menu.

For those looking for a quick yet satisfying bite, Universal CityWalk’s Voodoo Doughnut offers an array of whimsical and decadent treats, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth on the go. At Disney, the charming Sleepy Hollow in Magic Kingdom provides delightful waffle sandwiches and a picturesque view of Cinderella Castle, making for a perfect lunch spot.

Embracing these insider secrets can elevate your Universal and Disney experience, weaving a tapestry of moments that are as unique as they are magical. From quiet corners where you can bask in the ambiance to character encounters that bring stories to life, and dining experiences that tantalize your taste buds, each secret shared is a key to unlocking the full enchantment of your theme park adventure.

A blogger, Social Media Specialist and digital influencer, Kayla is the founder and driving force behind MommyofaPrincess.com, a blog designed to provide party planning ideas, family travel tips, and fun DIY projects with her Millennial 'Girl Mom' audience. She has partnered with several brands, a few favorites include Walt Disney World, Google, Coca-Cola, Carters and LEGOLAND Florida. This venture perfectly fits her current lifestyle with two young daughters.

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How to Get from Disney World to Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Orlando Resort and Walt Disney World Resort are two of the biggest and best theme park destinations in the world. They also happen to be just a short drive away from each other in the Orlando Florida area. If you’re planning a trip to Disney and like thrill rides, then I’d recommend adding on a day or two at Universal Orlando (Universal Studios and Univeral’s Islands of Adventure theme parks). The resort is home to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter , an absolute MUST for Harry Potter fans. So what is the best way to get from Disney World to Universal Orlando if you don’t have your own car? Let’s dive right in…

Best way to get from Disney World to Universal Orlando

It’s not usual for a Disney World vacation to also include a visit to Universal Orlando Resort.  After all, it’s only about 10 miles away and no more than a 20 or 30-minute ride away. So if have some extra time and a desire to see The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and the rides of Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure theme parks, then we definitely recommend planning to visit Universal , even if only for a day or two!

So how do you get from Disney World to Universal Orlando Resort?

There are a few options, including ride-hailing companies like Uber and Lyft, taxi, direct shuttle, or car rentals. Below we go through these options.

1. Ridesharing Apps (Uber or Lyft)

Ridesharing companies have really transformed the way we do transportation. Companies like Uber and Lyft have supplemented – or even flat-out replaced –  traditional taxi service. Why?  Uber and Lyft are typically cheaper than taxis and every bit as efficient (sometimes even more efficient).

Now everyday people are using their own vehicles to drive their passengers to their destinations, and non-tech savvy people are figuring out how easy it is to hail a car with an app. You simply create an account and link your credit card, enter your destination, and you are good to go!

As you can imagine, Uber and Lyft are very popular in the Orlando area.  Guests traveling from their Disney World hotel to Universal Orlando can expect to pay approximately $20 for one-way transportation. This makes Uber or Lyft our #1 choice: it’s the cheapest and probably the easiest way to get from Disney World to Universal Orlando Resort.

Click HERE to get an Uber fare estimate from your hotel to Universal Orlando.

If you are staying at one of Disney World’s on-property hotels, then another option would be to take a shuttle to Universal Orlando Resort. This is a popular mode of transportation, but, as you can see by our calculations, it’s generally more expensive for your family than if you take a standard Uber.

The Mears Transportation Group (888-983-3346; mearstransportation.com ) operates the largest and most popular shared shuttle service in Orlando. The shuttle drives around and picks up passengers until the van (or bus) is filled before it departs for its destination.

Rates are charged on a per-person basis.  A one-way fare to/from Universal is $21 for adults, $16 for children ages 4-11, and free for children 3 or under. Roundtrip fare is $33 for adults, $25 for children, and free for children 3 and under.

A competitor to Mears Transportation Group is SuperShuttle (800-258-3826; supershuttle.com ). They also offer shared vans to/from Universal for $18 per person one way, or $32 for a roundtrip ticket.

3.  Taxi Service

Some people just prefer taxi service. They are conveniently located outside of your hotel, and you won’t have to use any smartphone app to hail one.

These old-fashioned taxi services can whisk you between Disney World and Universal Studios with no delay.  There are a few different taxi companies in the Orlando area but Mears Transportation Group is the biggest.

Mears Transportation Group (☎ 888-983-3346; mearstransportation.com ) operates several brands (Checker Cab, Yellow Cab Company, and City Cab Company) all with identical rates. Most taxis carry four passengers up to eight (depending on the vehicle).

For a family of four, the taxi service to Universal will come out to be more expensive than Uber and Lyft, but less expensive than the shuttle.

4. Rent a Car

If you are one of those people that love the freedom to explore, then renting a car may be your cup of tea.

Disney’s Car Care Center is a full-service automotive center offering car rentals, auto repairs, and roadside assistance for Guests of Walt Disney World Resort.

It’s located conveniently near Magic Kingdom theme park.

Call (407) 824-0976 between these hours:

• Monday through Friday:  7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
• Saturday:  7:00 AM to 4:00 PM
• Sunday:  8:00 AM to 3:00 PM

Guests under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

The facility offers alamo rent-a-car and national car rental services. Rates for a mid-sized vehicle cost around $45+ (parking is extra).

You can schedule a complimentary shuttle from your Disney resort to the car care center by calling 407-824-3470.

When all is said and done, renting a car for the day will definitely not be your cheapest option, but will give you a chance to explore the area on your way to Universal Orlando Resort.

The Verdict – Take an Uber!

We think the best option for traveling between Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort is: Ridesharing!

Not only are Uber and Lyft are the cheapest options, but they also provide you with convenience and comfort (usually).  It’s a no-brainer!

Enjoy your trip!

Need help planning and booking your Disney World or Universal Orlando vacation? Look no further than The Vacationeer . This Universal and Disney travel agency will get you the best rates and make sure every aspect of your trip is as magical as possible, all at no additional cost to you!

For more information about Universal, see our Universal Orlando Map , Best Universal Orlando Rides , Universal Crowd Calendar , Universal vs Disney World ,  Disney World Map , Magic Kingdom Rides , and Epcot Rides pages.

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What if you have a child that needs a car seat ?

Hi Reneee. As long as you request them, Uber DOES offer car seats: https://www.uber.com/us/en/ride/car-seat . Same goes for car rental companies, but I would call ahead just to be sure. As far as Mears shuttle goes, they are accommodating but I’d call them ahead of time at (407) 423-5566 to confirm directly with the company. Hope that helps. Enjoy your trip!

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• Planning / Walt Disney World

Ultimate Guide to a Walt Disney World/Universal Trip

by David Mumpower · October 8, 2019

When friends ask me about Walt Disney World vacations, one topic comes up frequently. I get asked about the subject often and was actually asked about it again this morning. Many travelers want to know whether a joint theme park vacation is possible in Orlando. Here’s everything you need to know about planning a joint Walt Disney World/Universal vacation.

A Joint Trip Is Possible but Challenging

I’ve done a joint Disney/Universal vacation and speak from experience here. This trip is absolutely possible. The question better falls along the lines of whether it’s a good idea or not.

A Walt Disney World vacation requires a lot of commitment. The Disney campus hosts four theme parks, two water parks, two entertainment districts, and a sports complex. Unless you regularly visit, by which I mean at least annually, you’ll want to spend a lot of time at Disney. That way, you’ll get the most out of your vacation.

When you split the time between Disney and Universal, you’re limiting the number of things that you can do at Disney. It’s a significant trade-off that won’t pay for most people.

Still, I appreciate the lure of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. I’ve had my fair share of Butterbeer and waved my wand at many interactive objects. It’s an enticing opportunity for J.K. Rowling fans and the culmination of a lifelong dream to some.

Presuming that you’re set on this course of action, let’s examine other considerations.

You Must Take a Longer Vacation

This section and the next one are why many informed vacationers decide against a joint vacation. They’re the harsh realities of trying to do too much during your trip. And one of them is up to your employer inasmuch as you.

To experience a satisfying joint vacation, you’ll need to spend more time in Orlando. I always recommend a minimum of five days at Walt Disney World. That’s one day to focus on each park plus an extra day to spend doing whatever appeals to you. In a perfect world, you’d take a full week to explore Disney to the fullest, but that’s impossible for some.

On the Universal side, most people would need two days, one for each full park. I’ll suggest something different in a bit, but two days is the minimum for most.

The way that Universal sells tickets, they’ll try to incentivize you to visit for three full days. The park regularly sells tickets that are “buy two days’ of park admission, get one free.” When you have the available vacation time, you should consider it.

The drawback is that all the days you spend at Universal are ones where you’re missing out on Disney. And I’m devout in my belief that Walt Disney World is much, much better.

Universal Is Expensive

Here’s the other sticking point. While Disney has received many unflattering headlines in recent years about its price increases, they’re merely following Universal’s lead.

Ye, the smaller theme park, Universal Studios, initially introduced surge pricing as an option. And Universal’s prices are shamelessly costly for the number of unique attractions at the two parks.

When I helped one of my best friends estimate pricing on a joint Disney/Universal trip, he quickly realized something that shocked him. For a family with two adults and two children, Universal can easily cost $1,000 a day. The amount goes down with the length of stay, the same as Disney, but Universal charges more relative to what it offers.

To receive the best benefit at Universal, the Universal Express Unlimited Pass, you must stay in one of their luxury hotels such as Hard Rock Hotel or Loews Royal Pacific, their answer to Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort . These properties cost roughly $400 a night to start. Are they worth that much? Well…

You’ll Want the Universal Express Unlimited Pass

I love Hard Rock Hotel Orlando, although the walls have speakers to pump in the music. It gets a little irritating after a day or so, but it’s not enough to detract me from wanting to stay here each trip. But what I really love is the Universal Express Unlimited Pass. It allows guests to skip roughly 90 percent of the line on most rides at the park.

You can imagine how valuable this pass is. And Universal knows this fact. So, they sell it at an extremely high price. You should expect to pay $100 a person for it. However, due to surge pricing, it could cost even more. For a family of four, it should cost at least $400. Yes, that much money somewhat prices you into a stay at a top resort. From a certain perspective, you’re spending half the money on a hotel room and cv half on the express pass. 

Universal sells two versions of the pass. One allows entry on a ride once, while the unlimited version obviously comes with limitless return trips. When you have a favorite, you can just ride it over and over again. The unlimited version costs at least $20 more per person, but you get it “free” with a hotel stay at their best properties.

I should stress that the Universal Express pass isn’t perfect. A few rides aren’t included, and three of them are Harry Potter attractions. You must wait in line for them, which somewhat negates the value. Still, this pass allows you to do more during a visit to Universal. You won’t waste a great deal of time standing in line. Even a 15-minute wait is rare on all but the most crowded park days.

A One-Day Visit Is Best

Given the above, you see where I’m going with this. One of the best strategies for a joint vacation is a one-day excursion to Universal Studios. Splurge on one of their fancy hotel rooms for the night. Then, show up as early as possible and plan to go hard for a single day.

After an appropriate amount of research, you’ll know which rides your family is most likely to enjoy. I’ll post a quick list in a moment to help. When you enter the park, target those attractions plus the Harry Potter rides that aren’t available on Universal Express.

Presuming that you don’t mind spending the full day at the park, you should check off most major Universal Studios attractions. Even though the resort hosts two parks, you can easily navigate both. They share the same entry point.  And you should be able to do 15-20 rides with the Universal Express Unlimited Pass, as long as you arrive at Rope Drop and stay until closing.

My Suggested Universal Rides

Here are the rides I would suggest are the best:

• The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man
• Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
• Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls
• T. Adventure
• Fast & Furious: Supercharged
• Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
• Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
• Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
• Hogwarts Express
• Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
• The Incredible Hulk Coaster
• Jurassic Park: The Ride
• Kang & Kodos’ Twirl ‘n’ Hurl
• Men in Black: Alien Attack
• Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon
• Revenge of the Mummy
• The Simpsons Ride
• Transformers: The Ride 3D

Families traveling with children should also add the Dr. Seuss attractions, although they’re kind of disappointing. Another point is that some of the attractions are eerily similar to others, as Universal Studios operates a lot of motion simulation attractions akin to Star Tours. You may not want to do all of them.

Transportation Is Easy Thanks to Ride-Sharing

The one way I can ease your mind is in the transportation discussion. It’s simple. You’ll simply employ a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft. You can’t use Minnie Vans since they don’t leave Disney property, though.

Your Uber/Lyft driver will know precisely what you want, as a trip from Disney to Universal is one of their most frequent rides. Expect to pay $30 or so on average, more during peak hours where you’ve got surge pricing in effect. The trip will only take about 25 minutes, depending on traffic.

Your driver might even have a few tips about Universal Studios strategies! So, engage them in conversation just in case.

Don’t Expect Great Food

Think of this section as a final word of caution. As a Disney fan, you’re spoiled on what to expect during a theme park visit. Folks, Universal ain’t Disney. You’ll realize it in small and large ways.

Universal’s cleanliness is better than many theme parks, but it’s a far cry from Walt Disney World. Navigating the parks is far easier at Disney, too. And the food, well the difference in food quality is the difference between Justin Verlander throwing a baseball vs. Charlie Brown “throwing” it.

Your best bet for food is actually Universal Citywalk, which includes several chain restaurants. Inside the parks, you may choose the themed restaurants at Simpsons Land and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. The food’s nothing special there either, though. In truth, the only place I wholeheartedly recommend within the parks is Mythos. Simply stated, you’re just not at Disney, and you’ll never feel more acutely aware of this than when you’re at Universal Studios.

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Disney vs. Universal: A Complete Comparison of Both Parks

This post may contain affiliate links, view our disclosure policy .

When it comes to planning an epic theme park vacation, perhaps you’re trying to decide between Disney vs. Universal and are wondering about their similarities and differences.

After all, as two of the most iconic and talked about theme parks in the United States, both destinations provide an incredible, action-packed family vacation experience ( at a cost! ).

In this article, we’ll compare Disney vs. Universal by looking at their similarities, as well as the 9 major differences that set these family theme parks apart from one another.

Having been to both Disney and Universal, we’ve got a handle on all of the things you need to know to decide which is the better choice for you and the type of vacation that you’re looking for.

Either way, family fun awaits!

This post may contain affiliate links, which means that we may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link.   For more info, see disclosure.

Table of Contents

Disney vs. Universal

Though many people debate, “Which is better, Disney vs. Universal?” that answer comes down to personal opinion.

Some even like to compare which theme park is more nostalgic or is better for families.

Once again, these answers tend to vary based on your family’s individual ages, interests, and whether your expectations were met when having visited there previously.

In our experience having been to both parks, however, there are multiple similarities, as well as 9 undebatable differences when comparing Disney World vs. Universal Orlando that we think are worth mentioning.

Though we are huge fans of both Orlando theme parks, our hope is that this comparison will help you decide which is best for you and your family.

And yes, we do share which park we prefer, and why, if you stick around til’ the end.

Let’s start by going over the basics of how both Disney and Universal are alike.

Similarities of Disney vs. Universal

Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort are both located in Orlando, Florida, which is in the central part of the state.

Interestingly, they’re located only 9 miles down the highway from one another.

Both Disney World and Univeral Orlando sit on a gigantic plot of land that includes:

• Theme parks
• Water park(s)
• A shopping/dining district

They both have something for everyone in that they offer a mix of thrill rides, slower rides, and entertainment – just in different ways.

Additional similarities of Disney vs. Universal:

• Each has multiple theme parks. Walt Disney World Resort is made up of Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom. Universal Orlando Resort is made up of Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, Volcano Bay, and Epic Universe ( coming in 2025! ).
• Both Disney vs. Universal have locations in California as well. There’s Disneyland in Anaheim, California, and Universal Studios Hollywood located in Universal City, California.
• Both Disney World and Universal Orlando have similar ticketing options in that they offer multi-day and park-to-park options. Also, the more tickets you buy, the less it will cost you in each park.
• Their overall cost is comparable with Disney being a bit more expensive, however. Both Disney and Universal offer a wide variety of price points, designed to appeal to a wide range of budgets, however. A complete breakdown of our Disney World costs can be found here!
• They each have waterparks associated with them. (Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon at Disney, and Volcano Bay at Universal.)
• There are nighttime shows and holiday celebrations at both.
• They each have vacation packages available.
• Both have convenient transportation systems for hotel guests.
• Both have on-site accommodations ranging from budget to luxury that include exclusive perks for hotel guests. There are over 25 Disney World resort hotels, whereas Universal has 7 hotels.

Resort Perks

Disney World guests who stay at Disney Resorts receive perks such as first access to  Genie+ which is the paid option for shorter lines.

Advance dining reservations and extra magic hours are also a perk for Disney Resort guests.

Guests staying at  Universal Orlando Resort’s  premiere hotels get complimentary  Express Passes included with their stay.  

They are also allowed Early Park Admission an hour before day guests in the morning.

Differences Between Disney vs. Universal

Now, let’s take a look at the most obvious differences between Disney and Universal.

These are the sorts of things that might help narrow down your choices and make it easy for you to pick between one or the other.

1. The Castles

As a symbol of grandeur at each of the theme parks, both Disney and Universal feature an iconic castle that serves as a backdrop for family photo ops and fun.

Disney’s 189-foot-tall iconic landmark, Cinderella’s Castle , is located at the entrance to Magic Kingdom.

Though the general public cannot tour the castle itself, Cinderella’s Royal Table is located inside the castle and offers a high-end dining experience for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Located across from Cinderella’s Royal Table is the hugely popular Bibbidi Bobbiddi Boutique ( ongoing closure related to the pandemic ).

Here, children ages 3-12 can undergo a makeover to become a princess or a knight.

Likewise, the highly secretive Cinderella Castle Suite offers lavish overnight accommodations inside Cinderella’s Castle.

Unfortunately, The Cinderella Castle Suite cannot be booked, instead, it’s by invite only or via winning an occasional contest offered by Disney.

(Kevin Jonas, Mariah Carey, Tom Cruise, and other celebrities have apparently stayed in this exclusive suite.)

Universal’s 150-foot tall landmark, on the other hand, is Hogwarts Castle , located at Universal’s Islands of Adventure theme park.

Hogwarts castle is the main building of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft as featured in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter book and movie series.

Unlike Cinderella’s Castle, visitors can actually enter the castle gates and go inside Hogwarts Castle for a fully immersive experience.

Here, there are Harry Potter relics and corridors of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry that include locations such as Dumbledore’s office, the Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom, and the Gryffindor common room.

The castle is also home to one of the most popular rides at Islands of Adventure , Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.

This amazing 4D motion-simulator ride takes place on an enchanted bench. (That sits atop a highly technological robotic arm!)

2. The Theming

Disney and Universal are both theme-driven parks, meaning that their rides and shows are more about the characters and settings rather than physical thrills.

It is in the overall theming of the individual parks where you will find the biggest differences.

For instance, it goes without saying that Disney World features theming based on the nostalgic Walt Disney World franchise.

It strives for a laid-back vibe that appeals to everyone.

Universal Studios, however, features theming based on the entertainment industry, in particular movies and television.

The vibe here is edgier with more high-tech and thrilling rides.

At Disney, you can expect to see rides and shows based on the following:

• Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Goofy, Pluto, and Donald & Daisy Duck
• Pixar (Toy Story, Finding Nemo, and The Incredibles)
• Disney animation (Frozen, Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid, and The Lion King)
• Pirates of the Caribbean
• James Cameron’s Avatar (Pandora – The World of Avatar)
• Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy

The best rides at Universal Orlando include these themes:

• The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
• Marvel’s Avengers
• Jurassic Park
• Fast & Furious
• Transformers
• The Incredible Hulk
• Despicable Me, including the Minions
• The Simpsons

3. Their Size

Disney World in Orlando is home to 4 major theme parks and covers 43 square miles of land.

As the same size as the city of San Francisco, quite simply Disney World is HUGE!

Disney World is comprised of:

• Magic Kingdom
• Animal Kingdom
• Hollywood Studios
• 2 major waterparks (Blizzard Beach, Typhoon Lagoon)
• Multiple Disney hotels
• Disney Springs shopping and dining neighborhood

Universal Orlando Resort is substantially smaller and consists of 3 major theme parks spread over 840 acres of land.

Transportation around the resort takes much less time due to its compactness and Univeral is considered to be more walkable than Disney.

Their size can be compared by viewing the following map (park sizes highlighted in pink).

Universal is home to:

• Universal Studios
• Islands of Adventure
• Volcano Bay (water theme park)
• Multiple Universal hotels
• Universal CityWalk nighttime entertainment complex

Disney World’s larger size means that there is more to do, but there is also more ground to cover.

You need at least 4 – 5 days in your Orlando itinerary to get even close to a full experience, and it requires A LOT of walking.

Universal Orlando, however, is smaller which means there’s less to do, but it’s easier to maneuver around.

A minimum of 2 – 3 days is needed for a complete visit.

4. The Thrill-Factor

Some people will say that Disney World is for families with young kids and that Universal Orlando is better suited for families with older children and teens.

We happen to feel there is some truth to this in that now that our kids are older, they prefer Universal Studios vs. Disney World.

The only actual evidence to support this is that an average of 11 rides per park at Universal has height requirements, whereas an average of 5 rides per park has height requirements at Disney.

(Height requirements are necessary for thrill rides that require harnasses and typically involve height and force.)

Because of this, one of our top tips for visiting Universal is to study the height requirements for your favorite rides ahead of time.

In addition, prepare your smaller children for the rides that they are, and are not going to be tall enough to ride to avoid meltdowns once there.

While there are still plenty of attractions that kids can do at Universal, these attractions are not Universal’s strong suit, whereas many of Disney World’s classics are perfectly suited rides for children and toddlers .

5. Skip the Regular Line Options

(As one of the many Disney changes related to the pandemic, Disney’s FastPass reservation system is gone. Universal continues to offer their Express Pass option, however.)

One of the biggest differences between Disney World vs. Universal Studios is their ‘skip the regular line’ option.

Disney is notoriously known for incredibly long wait times for its headliner attractions.

The previous system of allowing guests to choose 3 rides of which to skip the regular line ( known as FastPass ), has been gone since the beginning of the pandemic, and will not return.

Disney Genie+

Instead, FastPass has been replaced by Disney Genie+ and Lightning Lane Passes.

Disney Genie+ is a ticket add-on purchased through the My Disney Experience app that includes Lightning Lane access to more than 40 attractions.

For $15 per person per day at Walt Disney World guests gain Lightning Lane access to rides including Big Thunder Mountain, Haunted Mansion and Jungle Cruise at Magic Kingdom; Mission Space, Spaceship Earth and Test Track at Epcot; Slinky Dog Dash, Rock n’ Roller Coaster and Tower of Terror at Disney’s Hollywood Studios; and Dinosaur, Kilimanjaro Safaris and Na’vi River Journey at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. 

In addition, Disney is now offering the purchase of individual Lightning Lane Passes for top-tier attractions not included in Genie+.

The list includes Seven Dwarfs Mine Train and Space Mountain at Magic Kingdom, Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure and Frozen Ever After at Epcot, Rise of the Resistance, and Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway at Hollywood Studios, and Avatar Flight of Passage and Expedition Everest at Animal Kingdom.

Attraction prices range from $7-$15 per ride; prices and ride offerings vary by the day.

Universal Express

The ‘skip the regular line’ option at Universal Orlando is called Universal Express.

Universal Express is also a ticket add-on, meaning that it’s an additional cost to standard park tickets (prices vary by date and expected crowd levels).

The add-on can be purchased ahead of time, once you’re in the park, or comes free when you stay at a Universal Premier Resort.

The purchase of a Universal Express pass allows you to use the Universal Express line, for the entire day, at most of the attractions at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure.

The number of Express Passes available on a given date is limited, however, so it is recommended to purchase them ahead of time.

* Read all about Universal Express and why we think that Universal Express Pass is worth it when visiting Universal Orlando!

6. The Locker System

Another huge difference between Disney World and Universal Studios is their policy for taking personal belongings onto rides.

Every ride at Disney offers the ability to stow your personal belongings and Disney park bags at your feet while riding a ride.

This is a huge bonus when wanting to bring in backpacks stocked with water bottles, lunch, and other Disney touring essentials in that you don’t have to pay to store them while going on rides.

Most rides at Universal, however, do not allow personal belongings (including backpacks) to be brought onto the rides. In fact, understanding the locker system at Universal Orlando is key to avoiding frustration and confusion when touring there.

Along with paid lockers at the front of the park, each ride has either free or paid lockers based on the size of your backpack or bag.

In other words, if you’re looking to save money, only bring in a backpack or fanny pack that fits into the complimentary lockers.

Here’s exactly what we pack in our  Universal Studios day bag  that is just enough, but not too much.

7. The Entertainment District

Both Disney World and Universal Orlando have awesome shopping, dining, and entertainment districts that feature some of the best things to do in Orlando .

The difference is in their proximity to the parks, and on what they offer.

Disney Springs

Disney’s entertainment district is called Disney Springs.

Disney Springs is located 2.5 – 6 miles from each of the Disney parks.

This equals a 10 to 20-minute drive depending on where you’re driving from.

The best things to do at Disney Springs involve browsing their specialty shops, dining at restaurants, and riding in the world’s largest tethered helium balloon (and many more fun attractions!).

Universal CityWalk is the name of Universal Resort’s dining and shopping district.

You actually have to walk through CityWalk in order to enter both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, meaning that the shops and restaurants there are much more accessible than at Disney Springs.

Universal CityWalk lives up to its nickname as “the epicenter of awesome” as there are literally so many fun things to do at CityWalk .

Likewise, there are more restaurants here than you would ever be able to experience in one visit!

Check out our list of the top restaurants in Universal Citywalk , as well as what we order at each place when we’re there!

Additional planning tip: In my opinion, Disney focuses more on their dining experiences inside of the park, whereas, the best restaurants and dining experiences at Universal are located in CityWalk.

8. The Parking

At Disney World, each of the four theme and two water parks has its own outdoor parking lot. The parking lots are huge, and they all have separate entrances.

Trams cycle through the parking lots offering rides to the park entrances, otherwise, it is a 5-15 minute walk from the parking lot to the park.

Cost: Regular parking is $25/day (parking is good for all day and you can go to other parks).

At Universal, there’s one gigantic covered parking complex for day guests visiting Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, Citywalk, and/or Volcano Bay.

Once parked, escalators and moving walkways bring you into the transportation hub.

Here, you will find security checkpoints, restrooms, vending machines, and souvenirs.

From the Universal transportation hub, it is a 15-minute walk to get to any of the theme park entrances.

Cost: Regular parking is $27/day.

9. The Customer Service

Both Disney World and Universal Studios focus on providing a seamlessly top-notch guest experience.

They operate very similarly when it comes to high standards of customer service and professional staff members.

You will definitely notice a difference in the way that the opposing staff members make you ‘feel’ however, as each park has a different approach to its corporate culture and marketing approach.

Disney employees that work at Disney Parks or Disney Stores are called Cast Members .

Cast Members are trained to be as positive and as nice as possible, as well as to bring Disney to life for their guests.

Most cast members have lanyards for trading Disney pins with guests, as well as are encouraged to be interactive with guests in order to promote feelings of nostalgia.

They can be identified by costumes mimicking the rides, vests with bowties, or brightly colored polo shirts.

Universal employees are called Team Members . They too are trained to provide an enjoyable and memorable entertainment experience for their guests.

It often seems that Universal Team Members are hipper and edgier as well as have a more hands-off approach to the guests in order to mimic the action-packed atmosphere here.

They don’t necessarily have the same warm-fuzzy feeling as Disney Cast Members, but it fits with the ambiance of the park.

Universal Team Members can be identified in colored polo shirts, costumes matching the ride’s theme, and staff name badges.

Which Should I Choose, Disney vs. Universal?

Disney World…calling all Mickey and Star Wars fans?

Universal Orlando…calling all comic and Harry Potter fans?

I firmly believe that neither Disney World nor Universal is better than the other.

You literally cannot go wrong in choosing either – they are both awesome!

I will say, however, that I like the overall atmosphere better at Disney, but the overall ride experiences are better at Universal.

If I had to choose only 1 park to go to out of all of them it would be Magic Kingdom – simply for the Disney nostalgia, and the opportunity to say, “I’ve been to Disney World”.

Deciding between Disney vs. Universal really comes down to the factors that you’re looking for and comparing, and what appeals to you and your family.

My suggestion would be to do both parks on different occasions if you have the time and the funds.

Make your Disney World vacation all about Disney since it takes longer to see all of the parks.

Combine your Universal vacation with some days at the beach , or go there for a long weekend since it takes fewer days to do all of Universal.

For a point of reference, our 3 boys were ages 8, 10, and 12 when we visited Disney World in Orlando.

They were ages 10, 12, and 14 when were went to Universal Orlando for the first time.

These ages worked for us, and we wouldn’t change a thing as we felt they were at the perfect ages for both.

We appreciated having visited Disney first when the kids were a bit younger and then visiting Universal when they were older and tall enough to go on all of the rides.

Do you have a preference between Disney World vs. Universal Studios? I’d love to hear your take! Jen

If you liked reading about Disney World vs. Universal Studios , click here to get our free touring plans:

Universal Orlando Touring Plans:

• Universal Studios Touring Plan: 1-Day Itinerary
• Islands of Adventure Touring Plan: Complete 1-Day Itinerary

Disney World Touring Plans:

• 1-Day Magic Kingdom Itinerary: A Perfect Day At Disney
• 1-Day At Animal Kingdom Itinerary: The Perfect Family Touring Plan
• One Day Itinerary for Epcot: Family Touring Plan

* Before leaving, be sure to check our  Travel Resources Page  to find exclusive travel discounts and to book hotels, rental cars, and guided tours.*

Jen Brommer is a family travel expert. She has been featured as an authority on several notable travel websites and is a member of the Family Travel Association (FTA), Midwest Travel Network, and TravMedia global media network.

A prominent content creator and influencer on Instagram, Jen has over 150K unique monthly blog readers from countries all over the world. She has spent the last 16 years planning fun, and hassle-free family vacations for her family of 5.

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While I love the details in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, for me nothing tops or comes close to Disney magic!

Yes, for many, that Disney magic is unbeatable 🙂

This is a great summary of the differences between Disney and Universal. Our family prefers Disney (probably because none of us are keen on thrill rides) but we always include a day trip to Universal for Harry Potter!

Thank you! Yes, we love both too! But you’re right…Universal is more about the ‘thrills’ 🙂

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2024 Universal Orlando Planning Guide

Our 2024 Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure planning guide offers park & ride strategy. It features tips & tricks to help you save money & time, avoid crowds, and have the best vacation or side-visit from Walt Disney World as possible. ( Updated January 7, 2024. )

We’re Universal Orlando Annual Passholders and huge fans of those parks in addition to Walt Disney World. Universal has improved a ton and upped its game in the last decade. This began with the Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade lands of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which were further enhanced by Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure.

That has been taken to the next level with the debut of Jurassic World VelociCoaster, and to a lesser extent, with the new Minions mini-land last year. This is once again going to be another big year thanks to the DreamWorks Animation Land Opening in 2024 at Universal Studios Florida. These recent and upcoming additions, not to mention an all-new theme park in 2025, are among the reasons why some Walt Disney World fans are openly asking:  Is Universal Beating Disney?

Suffice to say, we highly recommend spending a couple of days at Universal when vacationing at Walt Disney World. This is guide to Universal Orlando Resort contains everything you’ll need to know. Whether you’re doing both parks in a single day or making a trip of it with an on-site hotel stay and multiple days at Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, we have you covered with info and advice about attractions, dining, resorts, strategy, crowds, and more.

In this guide, we’ll cover how to make the most of a visit to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. We’re going to take a counterintuitive organizational approach to this guide, as we’ve found that many readers consult it while visiting Universal rather than during the planning stages of a trip. Accordingly, we’re going to front load with info you need to know if you’ve already touched down in Central Florida.

If you’re a Disney fan simply trying to determine whether a trip to Universal Orlando Resort is right for you in the first place, you might start by reading our Universal vs. Walt Disney World post, which covers some of the pros and cons of each, plus the differences between the two vacation destinations. Although they’re all theme parks located in Central Florida, each have strengths and weaknesses that will make them better or worse for certain types of families–ages, demographics, etc.

Similarly, if you’re debating between resorts at the two main theme park complexes, see our comprehensive breakdown: Universal Orlando vs. Walt Disney World Hotels . That should help you determine which is the better option for your vacation–or if a split stay might be best!

For what it’s worth, neither of these versus posts nor the one about whether Universal is “beating” Disney are pointless fan cheerleading or theme parks as polarizing team sports. The two versus posts are practical planning that objectively weigh pros and cons, whereas the “beating” one is an editorial (not useful for planning, but potentially interesting).

Anyway, here’s everything else you need to know about visiting Universal Orlando Resort…

What’s New & Next at Universal

If you have not been to Universal Orlando in a while (or ever), a lot has changed in the last several years. This includes a few attractions that have been added in the last several years: Bourne Stuntacular, Fast and the Furious: Supercharged, Race Through New York starring Jimmy Fallon, and Skull Island: Reign of Kong.

In terms of what’s new, there are two hugely popular coasters in Islands of Adventure: Jurassic World VelociCoaster and Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure in the Hogsmeade side of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Without question, VelociCoaster and Hagrid’s are two of the very best roller coasters in Orlando. (I’d personally put both above TRON Lightcycle Run at Walt Disney World, but to each their own on that.)

As noted above, there’s also the new Minion Land at Universal Studios Florida . As the name suggests, this is an area based on the  Despicable Me  film franchise, and builds on the popularity of the existing Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem attraction. This is now an expanded avenue with the new Villain-Con Minion Blast ride and Minion Cafe restaurant, plus more retail, snack spots, meet & greets, placemaking, and more.

Next on the horizon is the aforementioned DreamWorks Animation Land that will feature characters like Gabby from Gabby’s Dollhouse  and explore themed, interactive play spaces and attractions that bring popular franchises like  Shrek ,  Trolls  and  Kung Fu Panda to life.

Although unconfirmed, this is expected to feature a “Trollercoaster” (a Trolls-themed roller coaster, hence the name) and a Shrek’s swamp area. Construction permits put the end of work in March 2024, which makes sense–have the DreamWorks land open by Spring Break. (That opening timeframe is also unconfirmed, though–permits can be extended, but construction appears to be progressing quickly.)

These new additions are appetizers to the main course, which comes in Summer 2025. Universal is building a third theme park in Central Florida and construction is progressing fast . It’s full steam ahead on this project, and Universal’s Epic Universe Park is Opening by Summer 2025! This will bring Super Nintendo World plus more Harry Potter, Universal Monsters, How to Train Your Dragon, and much more to Universal Orlando in the coming years.

In the here and now, another thing worth addressing in terms of what’s new is a return to normal in terms of attendance and crowds. After nearly two full years of pent-up demand driving wait times and prices higher, both Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando have seen a slowdown.

With this, both Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando have gotten more aggressive with discounts in an attempt to entice more people to visit their parks and stay in on-site hotels. We’ve mentioned repeatedly that  Walt Disney World already  has released a dozen different discounts for 2024 .

Universal has followed suit, shifting from discounts aimed almost exclusively at Annual Passholders and Florida residents to general public offers. There’s currently a “buy 2 days, get 3 free” ticket deal, resort discounts offering 20-35% off, and package deals offering up to $650 off.

These are worth pricing out for yourself, but we should warn that many have length of stay requirements of 5 days. That’s longer than most people will spend at Universal Orlando (which is part of why it’s being offered–to increase visit durations). In any case, we recommend using a travel agent– such as Be Our Guest Vacations –to price out different packages and deals, and help you figure out the best way to save, plan your trip, etc.

Now let’s turn to Universal Orlando’s advanced planning topics…

Where to Stay

There are a number of questions you have to ask yourself when planning a trip, and many of them will dictate where you stay. Do you want Unlimited Express Pass by staying at an eligible Universal Orlando hotel? Do you want to stay at a Walt Disney World hotel for the duration of your trip, or change hotels? Do you want to stay an an off-site hotel in the general vicinity of both Universal and Disney to save money?

We’ve recently stayed at every single on-site hotel at Universal Orlando Resort–here are our reviews:

• Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando Review (recommended)
• Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando Review (highly recommended)
• Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando Review (good Express Pass eligible “budget” pick)
• Loews Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando Review (highly recommended)
• Universal’s Aventura Hotel Review
• Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort Review (highly recommended)
• Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn & Suites Review (good budget pick)
• Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn & Suites (2-Bedroom) Review (good for larger families)

For insight into all of these hotels, their pros & cons, and how they compare and contrast with one another, see our Universal Orlando Hotel Rankings & Reviews .

We are big fans of Universal’s hotels, and are particularly partial to the two “bay” resorts: Loews Portofino Bay Hotel and Cabana Bay Beach Resort. Both of those are in our top 10 hotels in Orlando, rivaling some of our favorite resorts at Walt Disney World.

Universal’s hotels provide great bang for buck, and even those that don’t include free Express Pass do offer Early Park Admission to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Universal’s Volcano Bay one hour before those parks open. That can be absolutely huge!

As for staying off-site, you generally will get the most bang for your buck when staying in an off-site hotel, as there are a lot of non-Disney and non-Universal hotels competing with one another. We have an Off-Site v. On-Site Walt Disney World Hotels article that goes into greater depth about the pros and cons of staying off-site, and it’s marginally applicable to Universal, as well.

As for simply staying at a Walt Disney World hotel for the duration of your trip regardless of where you go, we have written comprehensive reviews with our opinions and photos of the rooms. Check out our Walt Disney World Hotel Reviews page , for links to each of these reviews.

Ride Strategy for Universal Orlando

Next, what to know while you’re at Universal Orlando. For starters, we strongly recommend that you do not “wing it” for your daily itinerary due to the aforementioned crowd issues. You don’t need to plan every movement so that there’s no spontaneity in your trip, just make sure you have at least a loose plan of what you’re going to do.

We have the following plans for each park that cover our perfect days:

• 1-Day Universal Studios Florida Park Itinerary
• 1-Day Islands of Adventure Park Itinerary
• 1-Day Universal Park Hopping Itinerary ( both Islands of Adventure & Universal Studios Florida )

Those offer step by step touring plans for both theme parks at Universal Orlando, prioritizing the most popular rides and skipping what isn’t worth your time. Those will help you do Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man, Incredible Hulk Coaster, Jurassic Park River Adventure, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, and other must-do rides.

If you’d prefer to create your own itineraries and want an overview and review of every attraction at each of the parks, consult our Islands of Adventure Ride Guide and Universal Studios Florida Ride Guide . If you’re a fan spinners, you might want to check those out, as we don’t waste your time with that nonsense in the itineraries.

When to Visit

If you’re adding on a Universal Orlando visit to your Walt Disney World vacation, the answer to this is easy…whenever you’re visiting Walt Disney World. Crowd patterns at Walt Disney World translate pretty similarly to Universal Orlando.

The reasons are two-fold: first, because crowds tend to be predicated upon school schedules, which are the same for both; second, because Walt Disney World is the ‘whale’ in the Orlando market, so crowds for all theme parks are dictated by when guests plan their Disney vacations. In other words, you can refer to our 2024 Walt Disney World Crowd Calendars post to determine when to visit, as that’s roughly applicable to Universal Orlando as well.

There are only some exceptions to this, and they’re largely predicated upon special events that are unique to each of the parks. For example, Walt Disney World sees its crowds spike due to runDisney events, when its hotels are hosting conventions or youth sporting events, or during EPCOT festivals. By contrast, Universal sees its own spikes around Mardi Gras, Halloween Horror Nights, and early December when it plays host to the Pop Warner youth football event.

In general, though, the big driver of attendance at both is school breaks. In particular, those of Orange County and other counties throughout Florida and the South. Of course, both are vacation destinations, so breaks for school districts in the Midwest and Northeast also have a significant impact. The obvious times like Spring Break, Easter, Summer, Fall Break, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve are all busy.

More under the radar timeframes like MLK Day, Presidents’ Day, Mardi Gras, Columbus Day, Veterans Day, and more also see pronounced spikes in crowds. Again, reference the aforementioned crowd calendars if you’re looking to choose the best times to visit Universal Orlando.

Due to a surge of locals on weekends, we strongly recommend avoiding Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure on Saturdays and Sundays. Mondays through Thursdays are the best days to visit, with much lower crowds then. However, that goes out the window during holiday weeks or anytime school is out of session, when it’s disproportionately tourists and every single day of the week is busy.

The one exception to this is if you want to see or avoid Halloween season at Universal, namely Halloween Horror Nights (HHN). This is a hard ticket event that has a huge following among locals and fans of haunt season, in general.

During HHN, you step onto the set of some of your favorite horror movies, and walking through those sets as actors attempt to scare you. This event is not for children under the age of 13, and has absolutely nothing in common with Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party at Walt Disney World. See our Guide to Halloween Horror Nights for more .

Aside from this, the only noteworthy events are Mardi Gras and Christmas. See our Guide to Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval at Universal Studios Florida . At this fun event, guests can experience a food festival with cuisine and entertainment inspired by international Carnaval celebrations.

Food booths serve up the flavors of Puerto Rico, Trinidad and Tobago, Germany, Spain and other regions including, of course, New Orleans. Plus enjoy spectacular floats on display, street entertainment, music, beads and more throughout Universal Studios Florida.

Although HHN gets all the attention from the fan community, an equally popular seasonal event is Christmas at Universal Orlando . During this, Grinchmas and Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s are the main entertainment draws. There’s also the Christmas Tribute Store, which is essentially a walk-through exhibit, plus Universal Studios Florida’s iconic Christmas Tree.

Perhaps the biggest draw is Winter in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which features unique decor and projections on Hogwarts Castle. There are also decorations around both parks in Seuss Landing, Hogsmeade, Diagon Alley, Hollywood, New York, and San Francisco.

How Many Days?

This one is going to vary widely based on a few variables. The biggest one is how receptive your party is to the type of attractions that are prominent at Universal Orlando Resort, namely, roller coasters and screen-based simulators. That’s reductionist, and there are many more things at Universal than those types of rides, but if your party is averse to either, doing more than 2 days at Universal is going to be tough.

If you love coasters or have teens, you can easily spend 3 days or more at Universal Orlando. Heck, I’m not huge on roller coasters or simulators, and I can easily do 2 days (or even 3) at Universal. Likewise, if you love Harry Potter, several days at Universal will be easy. The two Wizarding Worlds of Harry Potter alone can fill a good chunk of the day. I mean, Diagon Alley has a fire-breathing dragon …not liking dragons is distinctly unpatriotic.

Islands of Adventure also has a Jurassic Park area, which is basically a tribute to our greatest national treasure: dinosaurs. It’s not as good as a real Jurassic Park (that would be like the San Diego Zoo meets the Lincoln Memorial meets Tokyo DisneySea), but it’s an enjoyable area to explore. In other words, there’s plenty to do if you’re an “ambiance person” at the Universal parks.

Then, there’s also the question of how much “extra” vacation time you have. Assuming you’ve already allocated your time at Walt Disney World and are looking at “other stuff” to round out your trip to Florida, I’d probably look to spending more time at Universal than other parks like SeaWorld or Busch Gardens. That’s personal preference and all of these parks definitely aren’t trying to accomplish the same thing, but I find the Disney and Universal parks to be in a different league than all of the rest.

Universal Orlando Park Tickets

If you’re looking for a deal on park tickets, Get Away Today will save you the most money on Universal Orlando tickets . This is especially true if you’re doing a longer trip, as Get Away Today has a ‘Buy 2 days, get 3 days free’ special. With more and more to do at Universal Orlando, spending several days in the parks is highly recommended–especially if you’re staying in a nearby hotel and want to do some partial days (also recommended).

I am a fan of the Park-to-Park tickets if you can swing spending extra. This is because Universal did something really ingenious when it built Diagon Alley, and that was connecting the two Wizarding Worlds of Harry Potter via the Hogwarts Express.

You can only ride this train from Hogsmeade to Diagon Alley (or vice-a-versa) if you have the Park-to-Park ticket. I’m no Harry Potter fan, but the experience of entering a train station in London, walking through a wall, and then taking a train to Hogsmeade is pretty awesome.

If you’re going for just one day and don’t want the park-to-park tickets, the best way to save money on Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida tickets is simply going to be buying tickets online on Universal Orlando’s website. The Universal tickets purchased online can be printed at home and used at the turnstiles–meaning no waiting in line to purchase tickets or exchange vouchers.

Express Pass

Express Pass is Universal Orlando’s version of Genie+ or Lightning Lanes (a way to skip the lines) and is available as a ticket add-on or with select hotel stays. You can purchase two varieties of Express Pass, regular or unlimited. Almost all of the most popular attractions in each park offer Express Pass.

The regular version allows you to skip the line once per eligible attraction in either park, and costs $90 to $350 per person depending on the date. Universal Express Unlimited offers line-skipping privileges, as the name suggests, an unlimited number of times per attraction, and costs between $100 and $380 per person. Even at its most expensive, Genie+ at Walt Disney World costs under $40 per person. So, what’s the difference? Well,  a lot. 

Unlike Genie+ or Lightning Lanes, there is no tech component to Express Pass. While it’s significantly more expensive, it’s also frictionless. You simply go up to the attraction and use your Express Pass entitlement. There’s nothing to reserve or hassle with in an app. Express Pass involves zero screen time and headaches–but you’ll pay a lot more for it!

Whether Express Pass is worth the money largely depends upon what day of the week and season you’re visiting, and how you value your time versus your money. Personally, we would not pay for Express Pass most days. However, we also avoid weekends and holidays, arrive for park opening, and utilize an efficient park itinerary.

If you really want Express Pass, staying at an on-site hotel that offers Express Pass with your stay is absolutely the way to go. Unlimited Express Pass is available at the Universal Premier category resorts–meaning Royal Pacific, Hard Rock Hotel, and Portofino Bay–which are Universal’s most expensive hotels. Honestly, this is the only way we’ve ever “bought” Express Pass–we couldn’t justify the cost any other way.

All three of these hotels are nice, on par with Walt Disney World’s Deluxe Resorts, and generally cost less. They’re still pricey, but they’re cheaper than Disney’s higher-end hotels, and absolutely worth the money–especially if you want the Unlimited Express Pass perk or a good location within walking or boat distance of Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida. If you’d be staying at a nice hotel anyway, this trio is definitely worthy of your consideration.

If you want to learn more about this line-skipping option and how it compares to Walt Disney World’s counterpart, see our guide:  Universal’s Express Pass v. Lightning Lanes & Genie+ at Walt Disney World .

Transportation

By far the most common questions we get concerning Universal Orlando Resort is: “what’s the best way to get from Walt Disney World Universal.” The answer is that there are a lot of options, but by far the best is Uber. We covered this in depth in our Uber vs. Rental Cars at Walt Disney World article. Here’s the pertinent portion of that post:

In the past, the best option we’ve found for those who don’t have rental cars the duration of their trips is either renting a car on-site for the day, or taking a pricey shuttle. Neither is cost-effective or all that appealing, especially when you add on that parking fee.

For those who aren’t renting a car for the duration of their trip, Uber or Lyft are the unquestionable best options for getting from Walt Disney World to Universal. The one-way cost of an Uber or Lyft from Walt Disney World will vary depending upon your exact location, typically costing under $25 each way and taking 20-25 minutes.

There are some good restaurants in Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, but as a whole, I do not think the culinary experience is on par with Walt Disney World’s. The unquestionable highlights, in my mind, are the counter service restaurants in Diagon Alley (Leaky Cauldron) and Hogsmeade (Three Broomsticks) and the table service restaurant, Mythos, which is a great value.

Other in-park restaurants at Universal Orlando that we like include the Today Show Cafe (for lighter options) and Krusty Burger (for the exact opposite). Actually, there’s something for everyone in the Springfield area, which has a variety of dining options drawn from The Simpsons.

On the snacking front, you’re obviously going to want to try Butterbeer–perhaps all three varieties (frozen, hot, and regular). Most of the other snacks we enjoy are also in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour and Honeydukes.

Another thing you might want to consider is purchasing a refillable Coke Freestyle mug. I’ve done this, but I can really put down the Cokes to make it worth the money. I’m sure some day I will be toothless, but hopefully that’s at least 5 years away. These Coke Freestyle machines located throughout the parks are also a convenient way to get free water that’s cold and tastes great.

Other Things to Do

Volcano Bay is Universal Orlando’s water park. It’s themed to the South Seas and features a giant volcano (hence the name) in the middle with water slides in it. For Walt Disney World fans, it’s a bit like Typhoon Lagoon water park mixed with Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and Adventureland.

All the rides at Volcano Bay feature a Virtual Line instead of traditional standby queues. You tap in with your TapuTapu wearable (think MagicBand) to grab a ride time. Then go float, swim, splash, eat, shop or relax around Volcano Bay. Your TapuTapu will tell you when it’s your time to ride.

You will either  love  or  hate  the virtual queue system at Volcano Bay. That pretty much comes down to whether you beat the crowds or not. That can be accomplished by arriving and/or staying late, buying Express Pass, or visiting during the off-season. If you don’t do any of those things, you’ll likely think the virtual queue system sucks, and you won’t accomplish much. It’s definitely a system that creates winners and losers–they key is (obviously) to be in the former group and not the latter.

In addition to the two theme parks and Volcano Bay water park, there’s CityWalk. This is Universal Orlando’s shopping, dining, and entertainment complex, which is a lot like Disney Springs. The big difference is that you walk through CityWalk to access Universal Studios Florida or Islands of Adventure, and it’s incredibly easy to exit the parks and eat lunch or dinner at CityWalk. No bus necessary!

There’s also a lot of relatively new dining at CityWalk, such as Red Coconut Club, Bigfire, Voodoo Doughnut, Toothsome Chocolate Emporium, Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar, and VIVO Italian Kitchen–among other things. Toothsome is a fan-favorite for its over the top milkshakes and dessert concoctions (as well as the fun steampunk theme), and Voodoo Doughnut is a fun spot. With that said, we think both are slightly overrated.

For our money, the sleeper hits of the list are Bigfire and Cowfish, both of which offer great food at reasonable (by theme park standards) prices. We’d also give honorable mentions to Vivo and Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food. While the latter is not our personal favorite, it’s better than the “blockbuster” touristy restaurants like Hard Rock Cafe, Margaritaville, and Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Nothing against any of those–but they’re essentially Applebee’s with more wow-factor. Good enough for predictably-prepared comfort food, but absolutely nothing special.

One final note on attractions is that there are numerous attractions that don’t allow bags, but provide free lockers nearby for storing backpacks, cameras, small children, and whatever other random junk you might have on you. These are pretty convenient and there are larger lockers you can pay for at the front of the park, but the point here is for those of you who are used to bringing a small U-Haul worth of stuff into the Walt Disney World parks: you can’t do that at Universal. Pack for the parks a little lighter.

I think this is probably a good starting point if you’re planning on visiting Universal Orlando Resort as an add-on to your Walt Disney World vacation. If you would like to see some of these topics covered in greater depth, please let me know in the comments. We’re planning to tackle more on dining, special events, and Universal Orlando news in the coming months, so stay tuned for more of that!

Need trip planning tips and comprehensive advice for your visit to Central Florida? Make sure to read our Walt Disney World Vacation Planning Guide for everything about those parks, resorts, restaurants, and so much more. For regular updates, news & rumors, a heads up when discounts are released, and much more, sign up for our FREE email newsletter !

Your Thoughts

Are you visiting Universal Orlando Resort in 2024? Excited for Epic Universe or other rumored additions in the next few years? What about Jurassic World VelociCoaster, Hagrid’s, or the new rides that have recently opened? Have a favorite on-site hotel at Universal? Do you prefer staying on-site at Universal, or commuting from Walt Disney World? If you’re a first-timer, is there anything else you’d like to know? Chances are if you have questions still, so does someone else! Please share your thoughts in the comments

Written by Tom Bricker

Do you have an itinerary for 1 day, 2 parks at Universal, with an express pass? That would be appreciated.

Have loved your site for years. We use it as a major planning tool for all of our trips to Disney, Universal and Disney Cruise locations. It seems like the ride guides, 1 day itineraries and Mardi Gras guide are all from a couple of years ago. Are there any updates we should be aware of that you do not reference in this article?

Thanks for sharing, would love to visit Universal.

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The Magic of Combining a Disney World and Universal Studios Vacation

Imagine if you could spend your holidays at two places full of magic, fun, and exciting rides! In this special guide, you’ll get to learn about having an amazing adventure starring both Disney World and Universal Studios. Yes, that’s right! Disney World, home of Mickey Mouse and his gang, along with Universal Studios, where the magic of Harry Potter comes to life. We’re going to unfold this exciting opportunity for your next vacation, filled with smiles, laughter, and memories to cherish.

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Table of Contents

The Beneficial Factors of Combining Your Vacation

Going on holiday is a time to have fun and unwind from your normal routine. While there are many places where you can go, combining a trip to both Disney World and Universal Studios can be a perfect adventure! There are many benefits in visiting both parks, let’s delve into them!

The Joy of Versatility

Visiting both Disney World and Universal Studios offers a wealth of different experiences. You get to meet your favourite Disney characters, go on thrilling rides and then flip the coin and immerse yourself in movie magic at Universal Studios. It’s like two holidays in one!

Ease of Travel: Proximity of Parks

The best part about visiting both parks is that they are located very close to each other. You don’t need to travel far which gives you more time to enjoy the attractions and less time worrying about getting from one place to another.

Value for Money

While visiting both parks will undoubtedly be more expensive than just visiting one, if you plan properly, it can offer excellent value for money. You get to experience two world-class parks for less than if you were to visit them separately.

Variety of Food and Entertainment Options

Both Disney World and Universal Studios are renowned for their variety of food and entertainment options. From character dining to international delicacies and spectacular shows – there’s something for everyone!

Expansive Accommodation Choices

Staying on-site at both Disney and Universal gives you a wide array of accommodation choices. From themed rooms for the kids to luxurious suites for adults, there’s something to fit every budget and preference.

Understanding the Structure of Both Parks

Before we start having fun, let’s take a closer look at the structure of both parks!

Layout of Disney World

Disney World has four main parks: The Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Each park has its own theme and unique attractions.

Key Attractions in Disney World

At Disney World, you’ll not want to miss Cinderella’s Castle, Spaceship Earth at Epcot, The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror at Hollywood Studios, and the Kilimanjaro Safaris at Animal Kingdom.

Structure of Universal Studios

Universal Studios consists of two main parks: Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure. Both parks are filled with rides and attractions themed around popular movies and TV shows.

Must-Visit Attractions in Universal Studios

When you’re at Universal, make sure you visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, the Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, and the Jurassic Park River Adventure.

How to Strategize Your Itinerary

To make the most of your vacation, it’s a good idea to have a plan or itinerary. Here are key things to consider when strategising your days.

Allocating Time Successfully

Balance your time between the two parks. Consider spending alternate days in each park to keep things exciting and fresh.

Choosing the Best Transport Options

Both parks offer free transport to and from their resorts. Consider using these services to save money and time.

Incorporating Rest Days

Plan for rest days in between visiting the parks. It gives you time to recharge your batteries and be ready to take on the next set of adventures!

Maximizing Park Hopper Passes

Park Hopper tickets allow you to visit more than one Disney park in a single day. They can provide great value if you plan to bounce between different parks.

Planning for the Unexpected

Unexpected things can happen when you’re on vacation. Here’s how you can plan for these surprises.

Preparing for Weather Changes

Weather can change quickly. Pack for all types of weather. Ponchos for rain and sunscreen for sunny days are always good ideas.

Avoiding Peak Times and Long Lines

Try to visit during off-peak times to avoid the crowds. Use FastPass at Disney World and Express Pass at Universal Studios to bypass long lines.

Organizing Backup Plans

Always have a backup plan in case a ride is shut or is too busy. There are plenty of attractions, so you’ll never run out of things to do!

Managing Unexpected Expenses

Set aside money for unexpected expenses. This way, if something comes up, you’ll be ready.

Instilling Magic in Every Moment

At both parks, there are countless opportunities to create magical experiences.

Character Meet and Greets

Meet your favorite characters up close at both parks. Snap a picture or get an autograph, it’s a great memento!

Parades and Firework Shows

Both parks are famous for their spectacular parades and firework shows. Make sure you check the timings and grab a good spot early.

Interactive Ride Experiences

Many of the rides at both parks are interactive and immersive. Enjoy becoming part of the story!

Unique Photo Opportunities

Keep your camera handy at both parks. There are unique photo locations everywhere you turn.

Pumping Up the Adrenaline at Universal Studios

If you’re an adrenaline junkie, you’ll love Universal Studios.

Thrill Rides and Roller Coasters

From the Incredible Hulk Coaster to the Revenge of the Mummy, the thrills never stop at Universal Studios.

Live Shows and Performances

Catch live shows like ‘Animal Actors on Location’ or ‘Fear Factor Live’ for a unique experience.

Exploring Harry Potter World

At the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, you can live out your wizarding dreams. Ride the Hogwarts Express or try a glass of butterbeer!

Engaging in Character Chase

At Universal, there are opportunities to meet characters from your favourite movies like Despicable Me and Shrek.

Relishing Disney’s Enchanting Experiences

Disney World offers the classic Disney magic that has captivated people for generations.

Classic Disney World Rides

Classic rides like ‘It’s a Small World’ and “The Pirates of the Caribbean” are a must for everyone visiting Disney World.

Savoring Multicultural Experiences in Epcot

Epcot offers a chance to experience cultures from around the world. Visit the different country pavilions and try their special cuisines.

Enjoying Safari Adventure in Animal Kingdom

The Kilimanjaro Safaris at Animal Kingdom offer an exciting encounter with real-life animals in a natural habitat setting.

Diving into the Future in Tomorrowland

Tomorrowland offers futuristic experiences. Try the Space Mountain ride for a thrilling roller coaster ride in the dark!

Sampling Celebrity Chefs’ Creations

Both Parks offer a wide variety of culinaries delights.

Gastronomic Experiences in Disney World

Disney World has several celebrity-chef owned restaurants that offer fine dining experiences.

Culinary Creations in Universal Studios

At Universal, you can enjoy a meal at Emeril’s Restaurant or the Toothsome Chocolate Emporium.

Iconic Food Items in Both Parks

Don’t forget to try the Butterbeer at Universal’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter and the Mickey-shaped pretzels at Disney World.

Dining Reservations and Meal Plans

It’s advisable to make dining reservations in advance. Also, look into meal plans that both parks offer to help save on meals.

Investing in Souvenirs and Memorabilia

A vacation isn’t complete without taking home a piece of the magic!

Collectibles from Disney World

Mickey ears, Princess Dresses, or a magic wand make great souvenirs from Disney World.

Must-have Merchandise from Universal Studios

Think wizard robes, minion plushies or a Jurassic Park fridge magnet.

Customizing Your Memorabilia

Many shops offer customisable memorabilia like engraved jewelry or personalised t-shirts.

Shopping Tips and Tricks

Shops can be less crowded towards closing time. Check for any special offers or sales happening in the park.

The Realists Take

As magical as a Disney World and Universal Studios vacation can be, there are some realities to consider.

Accepting the Realities of Busy Parks

Both parks can get incredibly busy, especially during peak seasons. Keep a positive attitude and remember that everyone is there for the same reason – to have fun!

Bearing the Costs of a Dual-Park Vacation

Visiting both parks will be more expensive than just visiting one. Budget carefully and look out for saving opportunities.

Coming to Terms with Unrealistic Expectations

Sometimes things don’t work out the way we plan. A ride might be closed or the queues might be long. Maintain a flexible attitude and focus on the fun.

Appreciating the Unique Magic of Each Park

Disney World and Universal Studios are different, each with its own magic. Appreciate them for their individuality rather than comparing them with each other.

Visiting Disney World and Universal Studios at the same time can be a fantastic adventure that will surely create memories to last a lifetime. With the right planning, a pinch of flexibility, and a large dose of excitement, your trip can be more amazing than you ever dreamed. So go ahead, pack your bags and get ready to explore!

Disney Realists

Splitting Your Stay with Disney & Universal

1/30/2024   |   Tips , Universal Studios , Walt Disney World

In the last 40 years, Walt Disney World has been the reason that millions of families visit Orlando each year.  However, with the full Harry Potter experience and so many additions to Universal Orlando, many families want to do both, but don’t know where to start.  This can get very expensive and overwhelming if you haven’t done your research.

One of the questions I get asked most is “how much time do I need at Universal?”  Several factors do come into play here, but I generally recommend 3:1.  For people doing three days at Disney, add 1 day at Universal and for six days at Disney, add 2 days at Universal.  Of course recommendations can change based on your family’s individual preferences, but it is certainly a good place to start.

Another question asked frequently is “should we get tickets only or purchase a Universal package as an add on?” If you are planning one day at Universal, it might make the most financial sense to purchase the one-day ticket and head to Universal for the day.  However, if you are more concerned about time and getting more accomplished during the day, end your Disney vacation and head over to a Universal resort hotel.  To really increase your time efficiency, stay at a Universal resort that offers the Unlimited Express Pass.  If you are planning two or more days at Universal, definitely stay onsite at Universal.   With a hotel package, you will be granted early access to the parks and be right in the center of the action, definitely getting more value out of the experience.

What about transfers? There are several ways to get to Universal from your Walt Disney World resort hotel.  If you are just going to be a one-day guest at Universal, ask your Me and the Mouse Travel Specialist about reserving a private car.  This will not only save you a ton of time, but the personalized car gives you VIP access with a drop off point very close to the Universal entrance.  Without having to pay to park, this option will most likely save you money as well.  If you are doing a split stay with a Universal hotel package, you are eligible for Take 2 Transfers which will provide your family pickup from your Walt Disney World Resort Hotel to your Universal hotel and back to Orlando International Airport.  If you choose to enjoy the Universal part of your vacation first, you will be picked up from Orlando International Airport, taken to your Universal hotel and then on to your Walt Disney World Resort.  Either way, it is incredibly convenient and a huge time-saver.

The split-stay is a great way to make all the Mickey-lovers and Potter-obsessed people in your family totally happy with their Orlando vacation.  Your Me and The Mouse Travel Specialist will take all of the intimidation out of this type of experience so contact him or her today!

Tagged: activities , Disney , Family , Favorite , Fun , Orlando , Planning , Tips , Travel , Universal , Vacation , Walt Disney World

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Keys to Your Split Stay at Universal Orlando and Walt Disney World

by Kelly Greer Sep 24, 2023

Central Florida is a great vacation destination for many reasons. Many people visit the area with the intention of experiencing the magic of the Walt Disney World Resort. However, Walt Disney World is not the only place to experience some magic!

Universal Orlando is filled with fun and adventures for all ages. As it continues to expand, this is another popular vacation option worth considering. Many families choose to do both during their vacations. The best way to do this and experience all that both destinations have to offer is to do a split stay between the two.

What is a Split Stay?

A split stay between the Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando is when you split your time between the two destinations on one vacation. You start off at a hotel at one destination and then move to a different hotel at the other. This is a great way to experience both places and all of the benefits of staying on-site.

Each destination offers additional benefits to guests when they stay on-site such as early park admission and complimentary transportation. At Universal Orlando, some resorts also include the complimentary  Universal Express Pass Unlimited  when you stay there.

How Long Do I Stay at Each?

The length of your stay at each destination depends on your interests and preferences. There are four theme parks at the Walt Disney World Resort: Magic Kingdom , EPCOT , Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. It’s strongly recommended to spend at least one day at each theme park. However, many guests find that it’s easy to spend a second day at the Magic Kingdom, or at whichever park is their favorite! There is so much to do at each one that it’s impossible to do it all in one visit!

The same recommendation of at least one day at each park also applies to the Universal Orlando Resort. There are two theme parks and one water park here: Universal Studios , Universal’s Islands of Adventure , and Universal’s Volcano Bay. However, it is much easier to go between the theme parks at Universal Orlando so it’s easy to visit more than one in a day. In addition, a park-to-park ticket is ALWAYS recommended! If you or someone in your travel party loves the Wizarding World of Harry Potter , a park-to-park ticket is the only way to ride the Hogwarts Express!

How Do I Book A Split Stay?

When you have a split stay, you will be staying at two different resorts, with a reservation at each one. This requires two different deposits, one for Walt Disney World and one for Universal Orlando. You can choose which destination you start with and where you end. There are different resort categories at each destination too.

At Universal Orlando, the options include premier, preferred, prime value, and value resort hotel categories. There are deluxe villas, deluxe, moderate, and value resorts at the Walt Disney World Resort. The level of amenities will vary depending on the resort category that you choose. However, all guests who stay on the property enjoy early park admission at both destinations!

Customize your experience based on your preferences. A vacation package is recommended so that tickets are also included. With a vacation package, you also have the option for some add-ons, such as the Memory Maker , or dining experiences. In addition, working with a travel advisor is especially helpful in this case. A travel advisor can help book your split stay and ensure everything is organized so that you can relax and enjoy your vacation!

How Do I Change Resorts?

These two destinations are not far from each other. It is only a short drive from one to the other. However, if you do not have a car, you will need to arrange transportation. There are several options to do this. You may choose to set up a private transfer, utilize rideshare, or a taxi.

Another great option that can be added to your Universal Orlando vacation package is something called a “Take Two Transfer”. This ground transportation option is a shuttle that takes you from one destination to the other. You also have the option of using it to get back to the Orlando International Airport if you fly. This service must be purchased in advance and booked through a travel advisor. You can set up the pick-up times for this service which gives you great flexibility during your stay.

Is A Split Stay Worth It?

You might be thinking – isn’t it easier just to visit one of the parks for the day and stay at one hotel? The answer to that question depends on the experience that you want during your vacation. It’s definitely possible to stay at one destination and visit the other for one day. Many people do choose this option. However, this does not give you the whole experience of the destination.

A split stay at the Walt Disney World Resort and the Universal Orlando Resort gives you the chance to truly experience what each one has to offer. There are unique attractions at each one, of course. Plus, there are also different dining options, hotels, and more. Enjoy experiences at the Universal Orlando parks that you cannot find at the Walt Disney World theme parks and vice versa. Instead of rushing to head to one for the day, why not enjoy your time and truly explore both?

There is so much magic to be experienced in Orlando and there’s more than one castle to see! When you plan a split stay, you can experience it all and it’s like having two vacations in one!

Contact your  Key to the World Travel®  advisor for your next trip, or send us a  quote request  to get started.

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Transportation Options to/from Universal Orlando

Universal Transportation from MCO Orlando Airport

Universal Transportation offers their SuperStar Shuttle service provides dedicated welcome service and transportation between Orlando International Airport and our spectacular On-Site hotels. Location: Orlando International Airport (MCO) Baggage Claim Level 2 On-Site Hotels Include: • Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort • Loews Sapphire Falls Resort • Loews Royal Pacific Resort • Hard Rock Hotel® • Loews Portofino Bay Hotel Round-Trip Pricing: $36 per person ages 10 and up, $26 for children ages 3-9, tax inclusive (Children ages 2 and under free) • Guests with flight arrivals between 7:00 am and 8:30 pm will visit a designated Universal Orlando Resort Welcome Center upon arrival to receive your Travel Wallet with pre-printed package contents and Universal SuperStar Shuttle pick up instructions. • Guests with flights arriving before 7:00 am and after 8:30 pm will receive advance instructions to collect the Univeral SuperStar Shuttle and Travel Wallet with pre-printed package contents.

Driving your own vehicle to Universal Orlando?   Check out Univeral Orlando Resort Parking Information

Universal Transportation between Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Resort

Splitting a vacation between Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando is a popular choice for many travelers.  Wondering about your Universal Transportation options if you are doing a double theme trip?

Of course, there are two options when splitting your time between the two locations: Guests can split their vacation into two stays , spending half their time at a Walt Disney World resort, then transferring over to an onsite Universal resort. There are some advantages to this. Universal guests staying onsite at any of the hotels get early entry into the parks and more exclusive perks. Those staying at select hotels onsite (Royal Pacific Resort, Hard Rock Hotel, or Portofino Bay Hotel) also receive unlimited Express Pass access.  Your best bet to transfer to the 2nd resort is either a taxi, uber, or possibly a rental car.  Any of these options would offer you a grocery stop if you wanted, and make transferring baggage easy.

Or, guests may choose to create a home base during their vacation and commute from Walt Disney World to Universal Studios for a day or two .

There is an additional option for doing a home base at Disney World, a package including tickets and transfers mentioned below.

Personal or Rental Car

If you have traveled by personal car or have rented a car for your transportation, your problem is solved. However, remember to factor in the parking fee once you get to Universal. Your Disney parking permit won’t work there anymore, and Universal hotels will impose a parking fee for guests.

Visit our Universal Orlando Resort Parking page to figure in parking costs.

Taxi or rideshare such as Uber or Lyft

Another option is a taxi; the estimated fare is $40 each way.  Just as when changing resorts completely, getting a taxi in the morning should be simple There is a website called Taxi Fare Finder that can give you a general idea of what the fare amount will be. Mears operates a great number of taxis in the area and also offers a taxi fare estimator . Both locations will be able to help call a taxi if there aren’t any waiting at the resort already. There are taxi van options to accommodate larger parties or luggage.   If you are an Uber or Lyft user, you should be able to figure out approximate costs on your app.

Shuttle Service

Mears offers a shuttle service between the two destinations. The shuttle is approximately $20 per person, round trip. There is a schedule for drop-off and pick-up, so guests won’t have the ability to just pop back to their resort at a moment’s notice. But the service is useful and eliminates parking fees, and finding your way around an unfamiliar city. To book, contact Mears at www.MearsTransportation.com or 407-423-5566.

For guests who do not want to stay at a Universal hotel, but simply visit the parks for a few days, Universal offers a ticket option with shuttle transportation included. These are one- or two-day park-to-park tickets. Guests can contact the shuttle provider (Mears) 24-hours in advance to arrange times for their transfers.  This is a special ticketing option available only through your travel agent , so make sure you investigate before purchasing Universal admission. The shuttle is not available between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Transfers from your Walt Disney World Resort to Universal and then the airport

For guests who start their vacation at a Disney resort, and need to transfer to a Universal resort, Universal offers “Take Two Transfers.” Enjoy Meet & Greet Transfer service provided by Quick Transportation from your Walt Disney World hotel to your Universal Orlando Resort onsite hotel. When your vacation is complete, guests will be transported to Orlando International Airport for their flight home! The Take Two Transfer Ticket is available for $39 per person.

Prices and availability are subject to change in regards to Universal Transportation

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How to Add Universal Studios to Your Disney World Vacation

I'm a Disney girl at heart. But someone recently told me that around 80% of people who book a Disney World vacation will also book or consider booking a day or two at Universal Resort too.

There is a lot to consider when deciding if you should add time at Universal Studios. What do those parks have to offer? What are the best ages to take kids to Universal Studios? How do I get there if I'm staying at a Disney Resort? Here we'll discuss all of this and more.

(Or listen to my podcast episode where we discuss adding Universal to Disney)

What Does Universal Resort Have to Offer?

Universal Studios is made up of two different parks, Universal Studios and Island of Adventures. A water park called Volcano Bay, and also a shopping and restaurant area called City Walk.

It was also announced that a third theme park called Epic Universe is being built.

This is the original park where you'll find the E.T ride that we were all in awe of 20-something years ago. You'll also find the amazingly impressive Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Springfield, Home of the Simpsons, and the Despicable Me Minions.

Island of Adventures

The second Universal park is home of Hogsmeade from The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. You'll also find Marvel Superhero Island, Seuss Landing, Jurassic Park, and more.

Volcano Bay

This water theme park offers several slide rides, lazy rivers, wave pools, and more. You'll find lots of seating and food and drink options. This water park is unique in how they handle a couple of things. Long lines and carrying cash around. So they offer an interactive bracelet called TapuTapu to help skip lines (more on that in a minute).

If you're looking for shopping, dining, and entertainment without a park ticket this is your stop. This is Universal's version of Disney Springs. It is walking distance to the Universal Parks.

Universal Resorts

Universal offers 8 resorts:

• Universal's Surfside Inn and Suites
• Universal's Dockside Inn and Suites
• Universal's Aventura Hotel
• Universal's Cabana Bay Beach Resort
• Loews Sapphire Falls Resort
• Loews Royal Pacific Resort*
• Hard Rock Hotel*
• Loews Portofino Bay Hotel*

*These are premier resorts that give an EXTRA perk of Unlimited Express Pass.

Similar to staying at a Disney World resort, staying at one of these hotels can give you some perks when you are at the Universal Parks

• Option of charging to your room
• Free on-site transportation via bus and water taxi
• Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
• Priority seating at restaurants
• Park purchases delivered to your room
• Unlimited Express Pass (Only for premier resorts noted)

Extras Offered at Universal Parks

Express Pass

Universal Parks offer their own version of Lightning Lane that they call Express Pass. However there are major differences in how Universal handles this perk.

When you have Express Pass you don't need to make reservations or grab times on an app for rides. If you have this pass you can show up and skip the lines.

If you are staying at a participating Universal Resort this perk is included for free. If you aren't staying you can purchase this pass as an add on to your park ticket.

It is important to note that depending on how many people are in your party and the number of days you are visiting, sometimes staying at a Universal Resort is cheaper than buying these passes. It's a smart idea to have a travel agent who handles both Disney and Universal compare these prices for you to make sure you don't overpay ( we can help you with that here ).

Similar to Disney World's rider switch program, Universal Parks offer child swap if you are touring with a child who doesn't meet the height requirements of certain rides.

Here is how you take advantage of this perk:

• Your entire group will get in the ride queue (even the child who wont be riding)
• When you get close to the loading area of the ride a team member will show the adult and child to a waiting room, and the rest of the group can ride
• After the first group rides, they meet up in the child swap waiting room and guests can then switch who rides

I actually find this system to be way better than what Disney World offers. My experience with Child Swap has been pleasant waiting rooms with cartoons or movies playing. There are seats and often changing tables as well.

This system is also better in how relaxed Universal is about Child Swap. At Disney if your child is scared to ride, but otherwise meets all height requirements, you cannot take advantage of rider switch. At Universal no such rule exists. They also don't limit how many people can ride in the second group. So if you have older children (or multiple adults) they will be able to ride every ride twice. As long as there is always one adult with the child, Universal is amazing about letting older kids ride twice.

If you head to Volcano Bay water park you'll be given a wrist band called TapuTapu. The lines at this water park are virtual. If you want to ride you tap your wrist, and you'll be notified when it's your turn to ride. So in the mean time you can enjoy the lazy river or a cold drink.

You can also use this wrist band to make purchases at the water park. So you wont have to carry your wallet around with you or worry about having wet cash.

Who Would Enjoy Universal AND Disney World?

Universal Parks are very different from Disney World Parks. At Universal you'll find larger thrill rides, and fewer rides for smaller children.

Universal can be enjoyed by anyone! But generally speaking, you'll get the most out of Universal if everyone in your group enjoys thrill rides, if the people in your group are tall enough where height requirements wont be a huge issue, if you are a huge Harry Potter fan, and if you love Marvel Superheroes.

Universal might not be for you if you are traveling with small children (toddlers or babies), you aren't a big Harry Potter fan, or you aren't a big fan of large roller coasters and thrill rides.

It's important to note that even the areas for children often have rides with height requirements. So you might want to check Universal's website before deciding.

We personally found our 4 year old was just the right age for Universal. She didn't mind waiting with us and hanging out in the Child Swap areas, there were enough characters she enjoyed, and she could ride everything at Seuss Landing. I suspect if she were any younger, she may not have gotten as much out of the experience.

How Do I Get There From Disney World?

If you know you want to add a day or two, you might be wondering how to get there from your Disney World resort.

You have several options.

• You can get a transportation voucher. This will get you from either your Disney Resort to Universal (and back), or the Orlando Airport to Universal (and back). These voucher are the best option financially, but can only be purchased through a travel agent. You can get your rate quote here .
• You can rent a car. Both Alamo and National have car rental locations at Disney World, which would make pick up and drop off easy. Just remember to consider any parking fees at the Universal Parks.
• You can use a Taxi, Lyft (use code doubleyourwdw to get a discount on your first ride) or Uber. If you are using a ride share service be sure to download the app before your trip. You can expect to pay $35-$45 each way.

Bottom Line

Adding Universal Parks to Disney World can be an amazing addition to your vacation. Especially if you love Harry Potter. With Max Pass you can easily enjoy these parks in one to two days, which makes it a realistic add on to your Disney vacation.

If you need help pricing out Disney and Universal resorts and tickets, and finding the best deal, let us help! Sorting out staying at Disney World or splitting your resort stay with Universal, versus purchasing Max Pass can be overwhelming. Get your free quote here and let us do that math for you.

Ready to Book Your Vacation?

Get a free quote here !

Still Confused or Need Help?

I am happy to help! Contact me.

See you at the parks, -Julie

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So, you’ve done the comparisons between Walt Disney World and Universal for your upcoming Orlando vacation. And you’ve decided…

… why not BOTH?! Great choice! Of course, with that decision comes an additional set of vacation planning logistics, so we’re here to help advise on the BEST ways to get from Universal Orlando Resort to Walt Disney World !

Hotel Shuttle Service

Being near two major vacation destinations means that a lot of hotels in the area that are not dedicated solely to either property offer free shuttle service to both! If you pick a hotel with shuttle service to both Resorts, you can easily get to both from your hotel (if not directly from one to the other).

You’ll want to do a little bit of research, though, for how your chosen hotel offers this service ahead of time . For example, the Staybridge Suites Orlando Royale Parc Suites shuttles guests to Disney World’s Magic Kingdom , EPCOT and Hollywood Studios as well as Universal Studios  (and also SeaWorld ). Obviously, you’ll need to do a bit of extra planning if you’d like to visit, say, Disney’s Animal Kingdom as well, but with both Disney World and Universal offering their own free transportation options within each Resort, that’s not a huge issue.

The main thing you’ll want to research is if your specific hotel requires reservations for their shuttle , as is the case with Staybridge Suites. Fortunately, these bookings only need to take place two hours in advance. And again, in this case, this is a FREE service ! And that’s just one example. Be sure to check various hotel amenities to see what they offer before you book.

Disney World vs. Universal Studios

Renting a car ? Problem solved! Buuuutttt…

Bear in mind that while being able to drive your crew certainly lends the most ease and control over your schedule, you have to factor in parking at each destination to your budget.

Let’s say you are staying at a Disney World Resort hotel. In that case, you can park for free at all the Disney World theme parks. But when you drive to Universal, be aware that self-parking at Universal starts at $30 per day, while prime parking can cost between $50 and $60 per day , depending on the season.

Universal has one major parking garage to access each of the major theme parks, Volcano Bay water park, and Universal CityWalk. (Note that parking is free daily after 6PM, save for select event nights such as Halloween Horror Nights.)

On the other hand, if you are staying at a Universal Resort hotel, Disney theme parks charge similar rates : it’s $25 per day for standard self-parking and $45 to $50 per day for preferred parking .

And if you’re staying entirely off either property, you’ll need to factor in parking costs for both destinations.

For most guests, a rideshare like Lyft or Uber offers the best transportation from Disney World to Universal, and the simplest answer as to how to get to Universal from Disney as well as how to get from Universal to Disney.

Costs will vary, however, depending on your departure point. For example, from Disney’s Art of Animation Resort to Universal Orlando, you can expect to pay around $22 (depending on the time of day and season of the year). But generally speaking, Uber and Lyft rides offer a reasonably priced way to avoid packed shuttle buses that make multiple stops.

Public buses through the local LYNX system offer transportation from Disney to Universal.

But, other than walking  😉 , buses are — quite frankly — the worst way to get from Disney to Universal or vice versa.

While both Resorts are indeed accessible, they are each serviced by different bus lines. That means you would need to transfer bus lines (in addition to making multiple stops) and spend around two hours (GULP!) to traverse that 8 miles . So, there’s that…

If you prefer a taxi , it’s best to book one in advance, because you can never be sure which areas have cabs standing by.

That said, Mears Transportation is the biggest name in taxi service in the Orlando area . You can check fares on the company’s website.

When we checked, a ride from Disney’s Art of Animation Resort to Universal cost $36.50, which is more than the average Uber fare of $22.00 mentioned above. On the other hand, a taxi could be priced lower than a rideshare during peak times.

So, now you’ve hopefully got some insight as to how you’ll get from Disney World to Universal and back again. Next step? Have FUN!!

Want to find more ways to SAVE at Walt Disney World? Check out:

• The Latest Updates on Disney World Discounts
• 7 Things That Will SAVE You Money at Disney World
• 5 SECRET Discounts for Disney World You’re Not Taking Advantage Of
• How to Get Table Service Quality Food for LESS in Disney World
• AllEars.net Reader Tips for Sticking to a Budget

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How to Get From Disney World to Universal Studios

June is a freelance writer and the author of “The Joy of Syntax" and “The Best Punctuation Book, Period.” A former staff writer, reporter and editor for the community news division of the Los Angeles Times, she also writes the weekly syndicated “A Word, Please” column that runs in newspapers in five states.

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Table of Contents

Hotel shuttle service

If you want to visit universal and disney world ….

If you’re heading to Walt Disney World, you may also want to make time to visit Universal Studios Florida, and vice versa. But the question looms: How to get from Disney to Universal?

Because these two amusement complexes are competitors, they don’t make it easy to traverse the 8 miles between them. Don’t let that stop you.

Here are your options to get from Disney World to Universal Studios or from Universal to Disney World.

» Learn more: How to travel to Orlando on points and miles

A lot of hotels in the Orlando/Kissimmee area offer free shuttles to Disney World parks. A lot offer shuttles to Universal. So can you take a shuttle from Disney to Universal?

If you pick a hotel with shuttle service to both parks, you can easily get to both from your hotel, if not directly from one to the other. For example, the Staybridge Suites Orlando Royale Parc Suites shuttles guests to Disney's Magic Kingdom, Epcot and Hollywood Studios as well as Universal Studios — for free; you must book at least two hours in advance.

Contrary to what you may read online, the leading private shuttle service in the area, Mears, does not offer shuttle transportation to parks — only between hotels and the airport. The company does offer taxi service. More on that below.

If you have a rental car, the easiest way to get between parks is to drive there.

Self-parking at Universal Studios starts at $27 per day, while prime parking can cost between $40 and $60 per day, depending on the season. Disney parks charge similar rates: $25 per day for standard self-parking and $45 to $50 per day for preferred parking.

If you didn’t book a rental car for your trip, it probably doesn’t make sense to get one just for transportation from Disney to Universal because car-rental costs and the time spent picking up and returning the car aren’t worth it.

For most guests, a rideshare like Lyft or Uber is the best transportation from Disney to Universal and the simplest answer to how to get to Universal from Disney as well as how to get from Universal to Disney.

Costs will vary depending on your departure point. For example, from Disney’s Art of Animation Resort to Universal, expect to pay about $22, depending on the time of day and year. Uber and Lyft rides offer a reasonably priced way to avoid packed shuttle buses that make multiple stops.

» Learn more: Disneyland versus Universal Studios annual pass

Public buses through the local LYNX system offer transportation from Disney to Universal. But other than walking, buses are the worst way to get from Disney to Universal and back.

The two theme parks are serviced by different bus lines, which means you’d need to transfer buses and spend around two hours to traverse that 8 miles.

If you prefer a taxi, it’s best to book one in advance because you can never be sure which areas have cabs standing by.

Mears is the biggest name in taxi service in the Orlando area. You can check fares on the company's website .

When we checked, a ride from Disney’s Art of Animation Resort to Universal cost $36.50, which is more than the average Uber fare of $22, but a taxi could be lower than a rideshare during peak times.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

If you’re wondering how to get to Disney World from Universal Studios, consider your budget and how fast you want to get there.

Parking your rental car at one of the parks is quick and starts around $25 or $27. If you want free shuttle service to both parks, look for a hotel that includes this perk.

But for most travelers, a rideshare will be the most convenient and most affordable option.

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60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

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Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Plan Your Trip

How To Plan A Trip To Disney World And Universal Studios

Published: December 5, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Fanny Messick

• Travel Guide
• Travel Tips

Introduction

Planning a trip to Disney World and Universal Studios can be an exciting and magical experience. These iconic theme parks offer a plethora of attractions, shows, and entertainment that cater to visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a Disney enthusiast or a fan of Universal’s blockbuster movies, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Before diving into the trip-planning process, it’s important to understand the scale and scope of these parks. Disney World is a sprawling complex located in Orlando, Florida, consisting of four main parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. On the other hand, Universal Studios is a separate theme park that includes Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay water park.

With so much to see and do, it’s essential to plan your trip in advance to make the most of your time and ensure a smooth and memorable experience. This comprehensive guide will take you through the various aspects of planning your trip to Disney World and Universal Studios, helping you navigate through the intricate details to create an unforgettable adventure.

From selecting the best time to visit and choosing suitable accommodation to understanding the transportation options, dining choices, and must-have items to pack, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to plan your dream trip. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or going solo, these tips and insights will help you make the most of your visit to these incredible theme park destinations.

So, let’s get started on this magical journey of trip planning and discover how to make the most of your adventure at Disney World and Universal Studios!

Selecting the Best Time to Visit

Choosing the right time to visit Disney World and Universal Studios can significantly impact your experience. Factors such as weather, crowd levels, and special events should be considered when planning your trip. Here’s a breakdown of the different seasons to help you determine the best time to visit:

• Peak Season: If you don’t mind larger crowds and longer wait times, visiting during peak season might be for you. This generally includes holidays like Christmas, New Year’s, and spring break. Keep in mind that prices for accommodations and park tickets may be higher during these times.
• Off-Peak Season: If you prefer fewer crowds and shorter lines, consider visiting during the off-peak season. This typically includes the months of January, February, September, and October. The weather might be less hot and humid during these times as well.
• Shoulder Season: The shoulder seasons, such as early spring and late fall, offer a good balance of lower crowds and relatively pleasant weather. This tends to be a popular choice for many visitors.
• Special Events: Both Disney World and Universal Studios host various special events throughout the year. These events, like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party and Halloween Horror Nights, can enhance your visit but may also bring in additional crowds. Check the park’s official websites for event schedules and plan accordingly.

It’s also worth noting that weekdays typically have lower attendance compared to weekends, so consider planning your visit Monday through Thursday if possible. Additionally, keep an eye on the park’s operating hours as they may vary depending on the season.

Ultimately, the best time to visit depends on your preferences and priorities. If you prioritize low crowds and shorter wait times, try visiting during the off-peak or shoulder seasons. However, if you’re looking to immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of peak seasonal events, plan your trip accordingly. Regardless of when you choose to visit, remember to pack sunscreen, stay hydrated, and be prepared for various weather conditions.

Choosing and Booking Accommodation

When planning your trip to Disney World and Universal Studios, selecting the right accommodation is key to ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay. Here are some factors to consider when choosing and booking your accommodation:

• Proximity to the Parks: Look for hotels or resorts that are located near the parks you plan to visit. This will save you valuable travel time and allow for easy access to and from the parks.
• Amenities: Consider the amenities offered by the accommodation, such as pools, restaurants, and shuttle services. These can enhance your overall experience and provide added convenience during your stay.
• Price: Set a budget for your accommodation and compare prices to find a good balance between cost and quality. Keep in mind that staying at a resort within the parks can be more expensive but may offer additional benefits like early park admission.
• Reviews and Recommendations: Read online reviews and seek recommendations from friends or online communities to get insight into the quality and service of various accommodations. This will help you make an informed decision.
• Booking in Advance: As popular destinations, Disney World and Universal Studios can get booked up quickly. It’s advisable to book your accommodation well in advance, especially if you’re planning to visit during peak seasons or special events.

There are several options for accommodation, including on-site resorts, off-site hotels, and vacation rentals. On-site resorts offer the advantage of being closer to the parks and often provide perks like early park admission and transportation services. Off-site hotels and vacation rentals may offer more affordable options, but transportation to the parks will need to be considered. Consider your preferences, budget, and convenience when choosing the type of accommodation that suits your needs.

Once you’ve decided on your preferred accommodation, make your booking through the hotel or resort’s official website or a reliable online travel agency. Be sure to review the cancellation policies and any additional fees before finalizing your booking. Booking directly with the accommodation provider can often offer more flexibility and better customer service in case you need to make any changes to your reservation.

Choosing the right accommodation can make a significant difference in your overall trip experience. By considering factors like proximity, amenities, price, and reviews, you’ll be able to find the perfect place to rest and relax after a fun-filled day at Disney World or Universal Studios.

Transportation Options

Getting around Disney World and Universal Studios requires careful consideration of transportation options. Here are some methods to help you navigate between parks, hotels, and other attractions:

• Disney Transportation: Disney World offers a comprehensive transportation system for guests staying at their resorts. This includes buses, boats, and the iconic monorail system, which can transport you between different areas of the resort. These transportation options are typically free of charge for resort guests.
• Universal Transportation: Universal Studios also provides transportation services, including buses and water taxis, for guests staying at their official resorts. Some hotels are also within walking distance to the parks, making it convenient to get around.
• Rideshare Services: Services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in Orlando and can be a convenient and cost-effective option for getting to and from the parks. Just make sure to check any specific pickup and drop-off locations designated by the parks.
• Car Rental: Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore other attractions in the Orlando area and provides convenience in terms of transportation to and from the parks. However, keep in mind that parking fees may apply at both Disney World and Universal Studios.
• Shuttle Services: Some off-site hotels may offer shuttle services to the parks. Check with your hotel about availability, schedules, and any associated fees.

It’s important to familiarize yourself with the transportation options available to you before your trip. Consider factors like convenience, cost, and the proximity of your chosen accommodation to the parks. If you’re staying at an on-site resort, utilizing the resort transportation can often be the most convenient and hassle-free option. For those staying off-site or wanting more flexibility, rideshare services or rental cars provide convenience and freedom.

When planning your daily itinerary, take into account transportation times between attractions and parks. Allow ample time for travel to avoid rushing and ensure you make the most of your time at Disney World and Universal Studios.

Remember to factor in estimated travel times when making dining reservations or booking FastPasses/Express Passes. The last thing you want is to feel rushed or miss out on a reservation due to transportation delays.

By utilizing the transportation options available and planning your travel accordingly, you can navigate Disney World and Universal Studios with ease, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable experience throughout your trip.

Creating an Itinerary

Creating a well-planned itinerary is essential for maximizing your time and experiencing the highlights of both Disney World and Universal Studios. Here are some tips to help you create a comprehensive and efficient itinerary:

• Prioritize Must-Do Attractions: Research the attractions, rides, and shows at each park and make a list of your must-do experiences. Prioritize these to ensure you don’t miss out on the highlights of your visit.
• Consider Park Hopper Tickets: If you have limited time and want to visit multiple parks in a day, consider purchasing park hopper tickets. This allows you to move between parks and experience a wider range of attractions.
• Check Park Schedules: Review the park schedules in advance to note opening and closing times, parades, fireworks, and entertainment shows. It’s important to plan your day around these schedules to optimize your time.
• Use FastPass+ and Express Pass Systems: Take advantage of the FastPass+ system at Disney World and the Express Pass system at Universal Studios to skip the regular standby lines for popular attractions. Make your selections in advance and plan your itinerary accordingly.
• Allow for Breaks and Downtime: While it’s tempting to try and see and do everything, it’s important to allocate time for breaks, meals, and relaxation. Pace yourself and allow for downtime to recharge and make the most of your experience.
• Factor in Dining Reservations: If there are specific restaurants or dining experiences you want to try, make reservations in advance. This will help you avoid disappointment and ensure you have a well-rounded experience.
• Be Flexible: While it’s good to have a plan, it’s also important to be flexible and adapt to unexpected changes or attractions that catch your interest while you’re there. Allow for spontaneous moments and enjoy the magic of the parks.

When creating your itinerary, it’s beneficial to map out your day, including attractions, dining reservations, and show times. Take into consideration wait times, any scheduled parades or shows, and travel times between parks if applicable. Remember, it’s okay to deviate from your plan if needed, as long as you’re having a memorable experience.

Sharing your itinerary with your travel companions can also help ensure everyone is on the same page and that you’re making the most of your time together.

With a well-thought-out itinerary, you can make the most of your trip to Disney World and Universal Studios, ensuring you have a balance of must-do experiences, relaxation, and flexibility to create wonderful memories that will last a lifetime.

Purchasing Park Tickets

Before embarking on your adventure at Disney World and Universal Studios, it’s important to purchase the right park tickets to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips to help you navigate the process of purchasing park tickets:

• Determine the Number of Days: Decide how many days you plan to spend at each park. Both Disney World and Universal Studios offer single-day tickets, as well as multi-day options, allowing you to save money if you plan to visit for multiple days.
• Check for Discounts and Special Offers: Keep an eye out for any discounts or special offers available for park tickets. Disney World occasionally offers promotions for Florida residents, military personnel, or for purchasing tickets in advance. Universal Studios may have ticket deals for staying at their official resorts or during off-peak periods.
• Purchase Tickets in Advance: It’s highly recommended to purchase your park tickets in advance, especially during peak season or special events. This ensures you have guaranteed entry into the parks and can save you time queuing at the ticket counters.
• Buy from Authorized Sellers: When purchasing tickets online, make sure to buy from authorized sellers or directly from the official websites of Disney World or Universal Studios. This will ensure that your tickets are legitimate and valid for entry.
• Consider Park Ticket Add-Ons: Both Disney World and Universal Studios offer add-ons that can enhance your visit. For instance, Disney World’s Park Hopper option allows you to visit multiple parks in a single day, while Universal Studios offers Express Passes for shorter wait times. Consider these add-ons based on your preferences and itinerary.
• Use Mobile or E-Tickets: Opt for mobile or e-tickets when available. This allows you to conveniently access and present your tickets on your smartphone, eliminating the need for physical copies. It’s important to ensure that your device is charged and accessible at the park entrances.
• Keep Park Tickets Secure: Treat your park tickets like cash and keep them in a safe place during your visit. Lost or stolen tickets may not be replaced, and it could result in additional costs to purchase new ones.

Remember that park tickets grant you entry to the parks, but certain attractions and experiences may require separate reservations or additional fees. Check the park websites or apps for specific information on any necessary reservations or additional charges.

By following these tips and guidelines, you can easily purchase park tickets that suit your needs and ensure a seamless entry to the magical worlds of Disney and Universal.

Understanding FastPass+ and Express Pass Systems

Both Disney World and Universal Studios offer systems that allow guests to spend less time waiting in line for popular attractions. Understanding how these systems work can help you make the most of your visit. Here’s a breakdown of the FastPass+ system at Disney World and the Express Pass system at Universal Studios:

• FastPass+ at Disney World: FastPass+ is a free service available to all Disney World ticket holders. It allows you to reserve access to select attractions, shows, and character experiences in advance. By securing a FastPass+ reservation, you can bypass the regular standby lines and have a designated window of time in which to experience the attraction with minimal wait times.
• Express Pass at Universal Studios: Express Pass is a separate ticketed system available at Universal Studios. It grants you access to shorter lines at participating attractions, allowing you to bypass the regular standby queues. Express Pass is not free and can be purchased as an add-on to your park admission or included with certain hotel packages.

Here are some key points to keep in mind when utilizing these systems:

• – FastPass+ reservations can be made up to 60 days in advance for guests staying at on-site Disney resorts, and up to 30 days in advance for other ticket holders.
• – You can reserve up to three FastPass+ experiences per day in one park. After using these initial reservations, you can make additional FastPass+ selections, one at a time, on the same day.
• – FastPass+ timeslots are limited, especially for popular attractions, so it’s advisable to make your selections as early as possible to secure the most desirable times.
• – The availability of FastPass+ experiences can change, so it’s recommended to be flexible with your selections and have backup options in mind.
• – Express Pass at Universal Studios allows you to skip the regular lines at participating attractions. The number of Express Passes available is limited and can sell out, so it’s advisable to purchase them in advance or at the beginning of your visit.
• – There are two types of Express Pass: Universal Express Pass and Universal Express Unlimited Pass. The unlimited pass allows you to bypass the line an unlimited number of times at participating attractions, while the regular pass has limitations.
• – Express Passes are valid for one-time use per participating attraction, and the pass holder must join the Express Pass queue to bypass the regular line.

It’s important to note that not all attractions participate in the FastPass+ or Express Pass systems, and some popular attractions may still have longer wait times even with these services. Plan your FastPass+ or Express Pass selections strategically, considering both popular attractions and attractions with typically long wait times.

By understanding and utilizing these systems effectively, you can significantly reduce your time spent waiting in lines and maximize your enjoyment of the attractions at Disney World and Universal Studios.

Dining Options and Reservations

Disney World and Universal Studios offer a wide range of dining options to satisfy every palate. From quick-service eateries to fine dining experiences, there is something to suit everyone’s taste. Here’s what you need to know about dining options and making reservations:

• Dining Plan (Disney World): Disney World offers a dining plan option for guests staying at their resorts. With this plan, you can prepay for meals and snacks, which can be redeemed at various dining locations throughout the parks and resorts. The dining plan allows for flexibility and can save you money if you plan to enjoy multiple meals each day.
• Type of Dining Experiences: Disney World and Universal Studios offer a variety of dining experiences, including character dining, themed restaurants, international cuisines, and more. Research the different dining options available and consider the preferences of your group to choose the most suitable experiences.
• Quick-Service vs. Table-Service: Quick-service restaurants offer fast and convenient meals that can be enjoyed on the go, while table-service restaurants offer a sit-down dining experience. Table-service restaurants often require advance reservations and provide a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Advance Dining Reservations: It’s highly recommended to make advance dining reservations, especially for popular restaurants and character dining experiences. Disney World allows reservations to be made up to 60 days in advance, while Universal Studios recommends making reservations as soon as your travel plans are confirmed.
• Reservation Systems: Disney World uses the Advanced Dining Reservation (ADR) system, which can be done online or through the My Disney Experience app. Universal Studios uses the OpenTable system for their table-service restaurants. Both systems allow you to select your preferred date, time, and party size for dining reservations.
• Be Flexible with Dining Times: If you’re unable to secure a reservation at your desired time or restaurant, be open to alternative options. Consider dining at off-peak times or exploring different dining locations to still enjoy a delicious meal.
• Special Dietary Needs: Both Disney World and Universal Studios provide options for guests with special dietary needs. Inform the restaurant staff of any dietary restrictions or allergies when making reservations or upon arrival so that appropriate accommodations can be made.
• Mobile Ordering: Take advantage of mobile ordering options available at select quick-service restaurants. This allows you to place your order in advance, skip the line, and pick up your meal without waiting.

Remember to plan your dining reservations around your park schedule and any FastPass+ or Express Pass selections you’ve made. Allow ample time for dining experiences, as they can add to the overall enjoyment of your visit and provide a chance to rest and recharge.

By exploring the various dining options, making advance reservations, and accommodating any dietary needs, you can savor the delicious flavors and make dining an integral part of your Disney World and Universal Studios experience.

Packing Tips and Essential Items

When planning a trip to Disney World and Universal Studios, it’s important to pack wisely to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Here are some packing tips and essential items to consider:

• Comfortable Clothing and Footwear: Florida’s weather can be hot and humid, so pack lightweight and breathable clothing that will keep you cool. Comfortable shoes are also essential, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking throughout the parks.
• Weather Protection: Be prepared for the unpredictable weather by packing a poncho or a small umbrella. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are also vital to protect yourself from the sun’s rays.
• Backpack or Bag: Bring a backpack or bag to carry your essentials, such as water bottles, snacks, sunscreen, and personal items. Make sure it’s large enough to hold your belongings, but not too bulky or heavy.
• Portable Phone Charger: With all the photos, videos, and app usage, your phone’s battery can drain quickly. Carry a portable phone charger to ensure you have a backup power source throughout the day.
• Autograph Book and Pen: If you’re interested in getting character autographs, bring an autograph book and a pen with a good grip. This can be a fun way to interact with the characters and collect memories.
• Snacks and Water Bottle: Packing some snacks, such as granola bars or fruit, can save you money and provide a quick energy boost on the go. Stay hydrated by carrying a refillable water bottle and take advantage of water fountains or ask for complimentary cups of water at dining locations.
• Extra Clothes and Wet Wipes: It’s a good idea to have extra clothes, especially if you’ll be experiencing water rides or attractions. Wet wipes are also handy for freshening up or cleaning sticky hands.
• Personal Medications: If you take any prescription medications or have specific medical needs, make sure to pack an ample supply for the duration of your trip. It’s also wise to bring any necessary over-the-counter medications for common ailments.
• Camera or Smartphone: Capture your magical moments by bringing a camera or smartphone with a good camera quality. This allows you to document your experience and share it with others.
• Identification and Payment: Carry your identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, in a safe and easily accessible place. Don’t forget to bring your credit cards or cash for purchases and transactions throughout your trip.

Keep in mind that both Disney World and Universal Studios have specific rules and guidelines regarding what items are allowed inside the parks. Review these guidelines before packing to avoid any inconvenience or disappointment at the entrance.

Lastly, pack with the mindset of keeping your belongings secure. Avoid carrying excessive valuables and consider using lockers provided at the parks to store any items you don’t want to carry around all day.

By packing thoughtfully and bringing essential items, you’ll be prepared for a comfortable and enjoyable experience at Disney World and Universal Studios.

Making the Most of Your Disney World Experience

Disney World is a vast and magical place, filled with countless attractions, characters, and experiences. To ensure you make the most of your visit, here are some tips and suggestions:

• Arrive Early: Start your day at the parks early to beat the crowds and maximize your time. Disney World often offers “Extra Magic Hours” for resort guests, allowing you to enter the park before regular opening hours.
• Use the My Disney Experience App: Download the My Disney Experience app to access park maps, attraction wait times, dining availability, and FastPass+ reservations. This app is a valuable tool for navigating the parks and managing your itinerary.
• Take Advantage of FastPass+: Make use of the FastPass+ system to skip the regular lines. Book your FastPass+ selections in advance for popular attractions to help minimize wait times and maximize your enjoyment.
• Explore Beyond the Rides: While the rides are a major highlight, Disney World offers so much more. Take time to explore the themed lands, enjoy live entertainment, watch shows, and meet Disney characters. These experiences add depth to your visit.
• Plan Character Meet and Greets: If meeting Disney characters is important to you, plan your schedule accordingly. Check the My Disney Experience app for character locations and times, and consider making advance dining reservations that include character interactions.
• Take Breaks and Pace Yourself: Disney World can be overwhelming, especially in the Florida heat. Take regular breaks to rest, hydrate, and recharge. Pace yourself throughout the day to avoid burnout and ensure you have energy for all the fun.
• Enjoy the Nighttime Spectaculars: Don’t miss the nightly fireworks and shows at Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. These dazzling spectacles are a perfect way to end your magical day at Disney World.
• Try Unique Dining Experiences: Go beyond standard quick-service meals and consider booking dining experiences at themed restaurants or character dining locations. These offer both delicious meals and memorable interactions.
• Stay for Extra Entertainment: Some attractions and shows take place after regular park hours, such as the “Happily Ever After” fireworks at Magic Kingdom. Stay a little longer to fully immerse yourself in the extra entertainment offerings.
• Embrace the Magic: Above all, embrace the magic and let your inner child shine. Watch parades, sing along to classic Disney tunes, and fully immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Disney World.

Remember, visiting Disney World is about creating cherished memories and experiencing the sheer joy and wonder of the parks. By following these tips and making the most of your time, you’ll have an unforgettable Disney experience that will stay with you long after your visit.

Making the Most of Your Universal Studios Experience

Universal Studios is a thrilling and action-packed destination, with exciting rides, immersive attractions, and captivating shows. To ensure you have the best possible experience during your visit, here are some tips and suggestions:

• Arrive Early: Start your day at Universal Studios early to make the most of your time and beat the crowds. Universal often allows early admission for guests staying at their official resorts, so take advantage of this perk.
• Plan Your Must-Do Attractions: Research the attractions and create a priority list of must-do rides and experiences. Some rides, like the popular Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, tend to have longer wait times, so plan accordingly.
• Utilize the Universal Express Pass: Purchase the Universal Express Pass to enjoy shorter wait times at participating attractions. This pass can significantly reduce your wait times and give you more time to explore the park.
• Visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Harry Potter by visiting Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade. Experience the rides, indulge in Butterbeer, and explore the magical shops for a truly memorable experience.
• Take in the Shows and Entertainment: Universal Studios offers a variety of live shows and entertainment throughout the park. Schedule time to catch popular shows like the “Universal’s Superstar Parade” and “The Blues Brothers Show” for added excitement.
• Stay for the Nighttime Spectacular: Don’t miss the “Universal Orlando’s Cinematic Celebration” – a nighttime show featuring fireworks, fountains, and incredible projections. It’s a dazzling way to end your day at Universal Studios.
• Try Unique Dining Experiences: Universal Studios has a range of dining options, from quick-service eateries to themed restaurants. Consider trying unique dining experiences, such as dining in a replica of the Simpsons’ Krusty Burger or enjoying a meal at the Leaky Cauldron.
• Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks: Florida’s climate can be hot and humid, so it’s crucial to stay hydrated throughout the day. Take breaks in shaded spots, and use indoor attractions to cool down and rest periodically.
• Explore Beyond the Rides: While the rides are a major draw, take time to explore areas like Hollywood Boulevard and Production Central. Discover hidden gems, street entertainment, and interactive experiences that add depth to your Universal Studios visit.
• Immerse Yourself in Movie Magic: Universal Studios is known for its movie-themed attractions and experiences. Embrace the movie magic by getting behind the scenes of your favorite films and enjoying the immersive experiences created by Universal’s creative teams.

Remember to soak up the excitement and embrace the thrilling atmosphere of Universal Studios. Stay flexible, enjoy the surprises along the way, and let the magic of the movies transport you to another world.

By following these tips and making the most of your time, you’ll have an unforgettable Universal Studios experience that will leave you with incredible memories and a desire to return again and again.

Planning a trip to Disney World and Universal Studios is an exciting endeavor that requires careful consideration and preparation. By following the steps outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can enhance your experience and make the most of your visit to these iconic theme parks.

From selecting the best time to visit and choosing suitable accommodation to understanding transportation options, creating a well-planned itinerary, purchasing park tickets, and making dining reservations, each step is essential to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Remember to take advantage of the FastPass+ and Express Pass systems to minimize wait times at popular attractions, and explore the diverse dining options available to satisfy your cravings.

As you embark on your journey, it is important to be flexible and embrace the magic of the parks. Take breaks, pace yourself, and allow for spontaneous moments to truly immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Disney World and the thrilling experiences at Universal Studios.

Whether you’re exploring the iconic lands of Disney World or diving into the world of movies at Universal Studios, embrace the joy, wonder, and excitement that these parks offer. Create lasting memories, snap photos with beloved characters, and let your inner child shine.

By combining careful planning, flexibility, and a spirit of adventure, your trip to Disney World and Universal Studios is sure to be an unforgettable experience that will leave you with magical memories to cherish for a lifetime.

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A magical guide for how to plan a trip to Disney World this year

Editor's Note

If you want to know how to plan a trip to Disney World, you've come to the right place. This guide includes tips for choosing the right Disney World hotel for your budget, deciding which ticket type is right for you, determining which extras are worth splurging on and how to plan a trip that's fun and memorable without too much stress along the way.

With four theme parks, two water parks, more than 25 on-site hotels, over 200 dining locations and more attractions, experiences, shows and shops than we can list here, the best way to build a magical Disney World vacation is with planning, preparation and realistic expectations.

Planning a trip to Disney World should be fun and build excitement for your upcoming trip, and this guide can help.

How to start planning your trip to Disney World

There are a few questions you will want to answer early in the process of planning your Disney World vacation.

• What is your budget? Your budget will determine most other factors of your vacation, including where you stay and how many days you visit. How much it will cost you to go to Disney World really can vary widely based on the choices you make.
• When will you go? You may be at the mercy of work or school schedules, but if you have the flexibility, you can plan your trip when crowds are smaller or the weather is better. The summer can be very hot and rainy, the week between Christmas and New Year's is one of the busiest and weekdays when most kids are in school are often the least busy days.
• Where will you stay? You will typically pay more to stay in one of Disney's on-site hotels, especially at the moderate and deluxe tiers, but you'll also get perks like early theme park entry. Before you choose, you'll want to consider your budget, whether you want a themed room like the Royal Guest Rooms at Disney's Port Orleans Resort – Riverside and if you want to be located near a certain Disney park. Pro tip: Renting Disney Vacation Club points can help you stay at a deluxe hotel for a moderate price.
• Which parks will you visit on which days? Depending on the length of your vacation, you may need to prioritize which parks you plan to visit. This will also influence whether you purchase one-park-per-day or Park Hopper tickets that allow you to visit multiple parks daily. If you have little kids, be sure your family will have the stamina for multiple parks per day before shelling out the extra cash to hop.
• Where will you dine? Popular Disney dining reservations are snatched up almost as soon as they become available. You'll want to plan ahead for any character dining or other table service restaurants, so you don't miss out.

It is important to book your hotel, dining and theme park tickets as early as possible for the best rates and availability. Disney also periodically releases special offers on hotels and vacation packages that you can often apply even if you have already made your reservations.

Related: Are the Disney Visa credit cards worth it?

We will dig deeper into each of these topics in this guide. Once you have a rough outline of your vacation based on the questions above, here are important dates to keep in mind so you can make your Disney dream a reality.

How soon can you book a Disney World hotel?

Disney releases hotel availability periodically, so there is no exact date that Disney hotel reservations become available. You can currently book Disney World hotel stays through Dec. 31, 2024.

Disney typically opens reservations for the following year around May or June, so you can expect to see 2025 availability around that time. If your plans change, you can cancel your room-only reservation up to five days in advance of arrival for a full refund. Ticket and hotel vacation packages must be canceled 30 days in advance to receive a full refund.

When can you purchase Disney World tickets?

Disney World tickets follow the same availability calendar as Disney hotel reservations. You can purchase tickets (or vacation packages including a hotel and tickets) through Dec. 31, 2024. Disney typically releases tickets for the following year around May or June, so you can expect to see 2025 availability around that time.

All tickets are date-based, and the price of one-day tickets also varies by park. You can purchase your tickets any time before you visit; the price won't change regardless of how long you wait. Theme park tickets are nonrefundable, but you may be able to change your ticket date if your plans change.

Until Jan. 9, 2024, you must have a Disney ticket and make a theme park reservation to enter a Disney park.

When do Disney World dining reservations become available?

You can begin making dining reservations 60 days prior to your visit. If you are staying in a Disney World hotel, you can make dining reservations 60 days before your check-in day for your entire stay (up to 10 days).

Reservations open on Disney's website or the My Disney Experience app between 5:45 a.m. and 6 a.m. EST or you can call 407-939-DINE beginning at 7 a.m. EST, but coveted reservations may already be snatched up by that time. You can cancel most Disney World dining reservations up to two hours before your reservation. Exceptions will be noted in the confirmation email you receive at the time of booking.

If you're not yet sure where to eat, here are our favorite restaurants at Disney World .

FOR NO-COST ASSISTANCE WITH PLANNING AND BOOKING YOUR NEXT DISNEY VACATION, CHECK OUT TPG'S DISNEY BOOKING PARTNER, MOUSE COUNSELORS .

What are the 4 parks at Disney World?

Each of Disney World's four theme parks is uniquely themed and packed with fun. You can learn more about each park, including attractions, shows, parade times and interactive maps to help you find your way around in the My Disney Experience app.

Here's a bit more information about each and some tips for choosing the right ticket type to visit them all.

Magic Kingdom

Open since 1971, Magic Kingdom is Disney World's original theme park. This park is a world of fairy tales and fantasy, where you'll find five themed lands — Tomorrowland, Fantasyland, Frontierland, Adventureland and Liberty Square.

Magic Kingdom is home to some of Disney's most iconic attractions, including Space Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Peter Pan's Flight and the Haunted Mansion, but also exciting new rides like Tron: Lightcycle Run and the soon-to-open Tiana's Bayou Adventure .

Epcot opened in 1982 and has changed drastically in the four decades since. Epcot's core message, however, hasn't changed: sparking visitors' imaginations through science, technology, nature and the human experience. The park is sectioned into "neighborhoods" — World Celebration, World Nature, World Discovery and World Showcase, where you can visit pavilions that celebrate the arts, culture and customs of 11 countries around the world.

There are a lot of new things to see at Epcot, including Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind , Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana and the all-new fireworks spectacular Luminous – The Symphony of Us .

Disney's Hollywood Studios

Disney's Hollywood Studios is a movie-themed park that has lands and attractions inspired by blockbuster films and beloved Disney characters. In Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge , you can pilot the Millennium Falcon and meet familiar (and furry) faces like Kylo Ren, Chewbacca and Rey.

In Toy Story Land, visitors shrink to the size of Woody, Buzz, Jessie (who you can meet here, by the way) and Andy's other toys. The land's Slinky Dog Dash coaster is a family-friendly ride that's perfect for a kid's first roller coaster.

Outside of the lands themed to specific films, much of the park evokes an old-Hollywood glamour that makes you feel like a bona fide movie star. In these areas, you'll find some of the park's most iconic shows and attractions are also some of its longest-running, like The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror drop ride, Rock 'n' Roller Coaster and the Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular .

Disney's Animal Kingdom

More than 2,000 animals — from about 300 species — call Disney's Animal Kingdom "home," but this is not a zoo. However, you can visit many of these animals via walking trails, the Kilimanjaro Safaris ride and even a petting zoo.

In addition to the creatures and landscapes found on Earth, you can visit another planet at Pandora — The World of Avatar or go back in time at DinoLand U.S.A. The animals aren't the only things that are "wild" at Animal Kingdom — Expedition Everest is a thrilling coaster; Avatar Flight of Passage puts you on the back of a banshee as you fly over Pandora; and Dinosaur sends you careening through the Cretaceous Period in an off-road vehicle.

What type of Disney tickets should I buy?

Disney world base tickets.

You can purchase one-day or multi-day Disney World tickets. All tickets are date-based, and the price varies depending on the date of your visit. If you purchase a one-day ticket, the price will also vary based on which park you plan to visit, with Magic Kingdom being the most expensive.

Disney World Park Hopper tickets

A base ticket only gets you into one park per day. If you want to visit multiple parks on the same day, you will need to purchase the Park Hopper option with your ticket (you can also add it on in person after you arrive). You can save money by only visiting one park per day, but it does limit how much you can see and do during your vacation.

A Park Hopper Plus ticket includes two visits to either Disney's golf courses, miniature golf courses or water parks, but this is only worth it if you know you will use it all.

Disney World special event tickets

Some of Disney's after-hours events , like Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party and Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party , require a separate ticket. The park is only open to guests with special event tickets during these events. If you plan on visiting for one of these parties, you may be able to forgo a general admission ticket that day and utilize your special event ticket, as you can usually get into the park a few hours before the party starts.

Disney World ticket add-ons

There are two major ticket add-ons that you should consider. Both can be worth it but will add to the cost of your vacation.

The first add-on you might want to strongly consider is Disney Genie+ . This skip-the-line service allows you to skip the standby line and enjoy shorter wait times for rides by utilizing Disney's Lightning Lanes.

Currently, you can only purchase it on the day of your visit beginning at 7 a.m. and the price ranges between $15 and $35 per person, per day. A handful of attractions at each park require a separate individual Lightning Lane purchase to skip the line, often for the newest rides, but many rides are available with Genie+. You don't need to purchase Genie+ to buy individual Lightning Lane selections and vice versa. The individual Lightning Lane attraction pricing varies by attraction but typically ranges between $7 and $25 per person per attraction for rides like Tron: Lightcycle Run and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind.

Another popular add-on is Disney's Memory Maker . Memory Maker gives you unlimited downloads of pictures taken by PhotoPass photographers during your vacation and on-ride photos. You can purchase a one-day Memory Maker for short visits or a multi-day Memory Maker which covers your entire vacation. You can save $25 on a multi-day Memory Maker when you purchase at least three days prior to your visit, so it's best to purchase it when you buy your tickets.

How to get discounted Disney World tickets

Aside from Disney's own discounts, you can sometimes save money on Disney tickets by purchasing them from an authorized third-party reseller. There are a few reputable sources out there for Disney World tickets, but our go-to is Undercover Tourist . Depending on your ticket type, you can usually save between $5 and $100. One of the best ways to save money with Undercover Tourist is when Disney World raises ticket prices , which usually happens at least once per year. Undercover Tourist typically has a limited number of existing ticket stock available at the old prices while supplies last.

Related: We saved every receipt — here's how much it actually costs to go to Disney World

If you are a Florida resident or are an active or retired U.S. military member , there are generous discounted Disney World tickets available directly through Disney's website.

You can also use points to pay for your Disney tickets , and that's a strategy we strongly recommend to keep costs down. For example, with the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card , you can earn a welcome bonus of 75,000 points after spending $4,000 within the first three months of having the card. You can use those 75k points as the same as $750 towards travel . And while ticket-only packages from Disney World typically don't code as a travel charge, buying them from Undercover Tourist — or as part of a larger hotel and ticket package directly from Disney — typically does code as a travel charge, so you could save $750 just like that.

Is booking a Disney vacation package a good idea?

If you are staying in one of Disney World's on-site hotels or a certified " Disney World Good Neighbor " hotel, you have the option to bundle your hotel stay and theme park tickets into a Disney vacation package. Normally, these packages are not discounted, but they can be a great value if Disney runs any special vacation package promotions .

Aside from discounts (and the fact that it all likely codes as a travel charge for point-redemption purposes), there's one major reason to book a vacation package: When you purchase your tickets and hotel together, you only have to pay a $200 deposit at the time of booking. Payment in full is due 30 days prior to arrival. If you purchase your tickets separately from your hotel stay, you will have to pay the full amount at the time of purchase.

This is another great example of why you should book through an authorized Disney travel planner who can compare prices for you and keep an eye out for discounts.

When is the best time to visit Disney World?

Do you want the lowest crowds or the best weather? Do you want to attend a Halloween party or see Magic Kingdom's 65-foot-tall Christmas tree ?

The best time to visit Disney World depends on your reason for visiting.

If you want moderate temperatures and less chance of rain, you may want to plan your visit between October and December. If you want shorter waits, your best bets are late January, early May or just after Thanksgiving before the crowds descend upon the parks for winter break. Of course, weekdays typically see lower crowds than weekends and school breaks.

Or, if you are planning a Disney World vacation on a budget, opt for midweek dates in August and September 2024, when prices start at $109 for a one-day ticket.

Read our full guide on the best times to visit Walt Disney World .

What's the best way to get to Disney World?

Getting to Orlando and getting to Disney World after arriving are two different topics, so let's look at each.

What is the closest airport?

The closest airport to Walt Disney World is Orlando International Airport (MCO). Most major airlines fly into MCO, and you can reach Disney World in about 25 to 30 minutes from the airport, depending on traffic. If you are flying Allegiant or Sun Country Airlines, you'll fly into Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB). SFB is smaller than MCO and farther from Disney World. From SFB, it is about a 45-minute drive to Disney World.

What is the best way to get to Disney World from the airport?

Because of its size and proximity to Disney World, MCO has more and better options to help you get between the airport and Disney World.

From Orlando International Airport or Orlando Sanford International Airport, you can rent a car or use a ride-hailing service like Uber or Lyft. If you do rent a car from MCO, you can forgo paying tolls through the car rental company (which often comes with an additional fee) and pick up a Visitor Toll Pass to save on tolls during your trip.

Disney no longer charges a parking fee for overnight hotel guests, so if you rent a car, you can park at your hotel and drive to Disney's theme parks without additional fees. Keep in mind that you may not need a car if you don't plan on leaving Disney property after you arrive. Disney has a robust internal transportation system that operates between its on-site hotels and theme parks, water parks and Disney Springs.

You can also use Disney's official airport shuttle, Mears Connect , from MCO.

Mears Connect is a shuttle service that picks you up from MCO and will drop you off at official Disney World hotels and a handful of nearby hotels. Pricing starts at $16 one-way for adults and $13 one-way for children. Mears Connect offers shared shuttles, where you will stop at multiple Disney hotels on the way to your own. You can pay an additional fee for an "express shuttle" that takes you direct to your resort. The easiest way to reserve your ride is online through the Mears Connect website.

What is the best way to get around Disney World?

If you are staying on Walt Disney World property, you can utilize Disney's complimentary transportation for travel between your resort and Disney's theme parks, water parks and Disney Springs. Disney offers transportation by bus, boat, Monorail and Disney Skyliner gondola system. Which transportation options you have access to will depend on which hotel you are staying in.

All Disney hotels offer regularly scheduled bus transportation around the resort. Transportation begins 45 minutes prior to the theme park opening and up to one hour after the theme park closing.

Guests of Disney's Magic Kingdom area resorts — Disney's Polynesian Village Resort, Disney's Contemporary Resort and Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa — can use boat or Monorail transportation to travel to the Magic Kingdom. There is also a monorail line that will take you to the Transportation and Ticket Center, where you can transfer to a separate Monorail line that goes to Epcot. These hotels also offer a walking path to Magic Kingdom.

Guests of Disney's Riviera Resort, Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney's Art of Animation Resort and Disney's Pop Century Resort can use the Disney Skyliner gondolas to travel to Disney's Hollywood Studios and Epcot. All Disney World visitors can also use Disney Skyliner to travel between these two parks, regardless of where you are staying. It's a fun and scenic way to get around the resort.

Many Disney World hotels also offer ferry boat transportation to nearby parks. The BoardWalk area hotels, for example, offer boat transportation to Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios. Fort Wilderness, Disney's Wilderness Lodge and others offer boat service to the Magic Kingdom. You can view a full list on Disney's website . You can also walk to Epcot or Hollywood Studios from any BoardWalk area hotel.

Whichever transportation option you choose, you can view the schedule, routes and stop locations in the My Disney Experience app or on video monitors at each stop location.

You can also utilize Disney's Minnie Van service for door-to-door (or door-to-front gate, as it were) service between your hotel and Disney's theme parks. You can book these private rides in red-and-white polka-dot vans directly through the Lyft app. Accessible rides and child safety seats are available.

Though not "official" Disney World hotels, Walt Disney World Swan, Dolphin and Swan Reserve hotel guests have access to Disney's complimentary ferry boat service to Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios. A walking path is also available. These resorts also operate their own shuttles to Disney's theme parks, which pick up approximately every 20 to 25 minutes throughout the day.

Disney Springs hotels operate their own shuttle services, independent of Disney's transportation. If you are staying at one of these hotels, you can inquire about scheduling and pick-up times at the front desk.

What's the best place to stay on a Disney vacation?

There are more than two dozen Disney World hotels to choose from, so your main considerations will be your budget and what type of hotel experience you are after. Whether you want over-the-top Disney theming, an upscale cabin in the woods or a luxury villa with access to a club lounge, you can find it at Disney World.

Disney offers three hotel tiers: Value, Moderate and Deluxe.

Value Disney resorts are the most affordable, with prices ranging between $125 and $300 per night. Value resorts offer quick-service, cafeteria-style dining outlets and large pools but don't have full-service restaurants or pool amenities like waterslides and hot tubs.

On average, Moderate Disney resorts run between $250 and $400 and offer amenities you won't find at Value Disney resorts. Some have full-service restaurants, and the pools are better-themed and equipped with waterslides. Many of them are more centrally located near Disney's theme parks, as well.

Deluxe Disney resorts are the most expensive, ranging between $400 to $700 per night and up for a standard room, but they also have the best locations, amenities and dining. You can expect large, well-furnished guest rooms, pool complexes with hot tubs, waterslides and beach areas, multiple full-service restaurants, spas and more.

Regardless of which hotel you choose, Disney's on-site hotels offer perks to enhance your stay:

• A 30-minute jumpstart on your day with Disney's Early Theme Park Entry benefit
• The ability to purchase individual Lightning Lanes for eligible rides begins at 7 a.m. on the day of your visit (non-resort guests can't do this until the park opens)
• Complimentary hotel and theme park parking
• Extended Evening Theme Park Hours for guests staying at Disney Deluxe Resort Hotels on select nights (this benefit is also available to guests of Walt Disney World Swan, Dolphin and Swan Reserve hotels, as well as Shades of Green)

Best hotels at Disney World

The best Disney World hotel for you depends on what you are looking for in a hotel stay. If you don't plan on spending much time in your room, you can save a lot of money by staying in a Value resort. If you plan on spending part of your vacation enjoying hotel amenities like the pool and restaurants, you may want to choose a Moderate or Deluxe resort. Or, if you have a large family that won't be comfortable in a standard room, one of Disney's family suites might be your best bet.

Here are a few of our favorites:

Best Disney World resort if you are on a budget: Disney's Pop Century Resort may not be the most glamorous hotel at Disney, but the kitschy 1950s through 1990s theming and the starting price of around $200 per night will surely put a smile on your face. This resort has three pools, a playground and an arcade. Guest rooms are furnished with either one king bed or a queen bed and a space-saving table that folds out into a bed. It is also one of two Value resorts with Skyliner gondola access to Epcot and Hollywood Studios.

Best Disney World resort for large families : Disney's Art of Animation Resort is in Disney's more affordable Value category and has family suites themed to popular Disney films like "Cars," "The Lion King" and "Finding Nemo" that sleep up to six guests. The pool here is the largest at any Disney World resort, and you can take the Disney Skyliner gondolas to Epcot and Hollywood Studios. Standard rooms are also available.

Best Disney World resort for swimming : Disney's Yacht and Beach Club Resorts are sister properties near Epcot. The two resorts have rooms that average around $600 per night and share access to Stormalong Bay, the best pool at Disney World . Stormalong Bay is really more than a pool, it is a water park with sand-bottomed pools, a lazy river, an activities pool with a volleyball net and daily pool games and a shipwreck-themed waterslide.

Best Disney World resort for a luxury stay : If the sky is the limit for your Walt Disney World vacation budget, the Copper Creek Cabins at Disney's Wilderness Lodge are some of the finest accommodations you can choose. With two bedrooms, a fireplace, a screened-in porch, a hot tub and lakeside views, these cabins are anything but rustic. The privacy offers you a chance to wind down after a long Disney day, but you are still close enough to take a boat ride to Magic Kingdom and enjoy the amenities and dining in the resort's main lobby.

If you are leaning toward a luxury Disney stay, you may be able to save money by renting Disney Vacation Club (DVC) points. DVC is Disney's version of a timeshare program. DVC members can rent out their points to non-members through sites like David's Vacation Club Rentals , helping you to save hundreds of dollars versus booking directly through Disney. The trade-off is that availability is limited and that the cancellation policies are much less flexible than if you make the reservation direct through Disney.

Read our full guide on the best hotels at Walt Disney World .

Best hotels near Disney World

Disney World also partners with a handful of off-site hotels where you can still take advantage of certain benefits like Early Theme Park Entry and complimentary transportation while also paying less than you would for an official Disney World hotel. These hotels also participate in major hotel points programs, so you can earn or redeem points for your stay.

The Walt Disney World Swan, Dolphin and Swan Reserve hotels all participate in the Marriott Bonvoy program. While not technically Disney hotels, they are located on Disney property between Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios. If you are a Marriott Bonvoy elite member , these hotels offer benefits like complimentary upgrades, a welcome amenity and more.

Related: This affordable new Disney Springs hotel includes free hot food and 6 nightly drinks

Disney Springs has seven hotels from brands like Wyndham, Hilton, Holiday Inn and others. All of these are adjacent to the Disney Springs shopping and dining district, and some have room rates that start at close to $100 per night. These can be a great option if you want to save money and don't mind leaving the "Disney bubble" at the end of the day.

Read our full guide to Disney Springs hotels here .

What are the best restaurants at Disney World?

With more than 200 restaurants to choose from, you are going to have to decide which Disney World restaurants you most want to visit. Dining options run the gamut from the predictable burger and fries to an out-of-this-world restaurant in space.

Read our full guide to the best restaurants at Disney World .

Hardest Disney reservations to get (and how to get them)

Many of these restaurants are quick-service or snack stands that don't require advance reservations, but there are a few popular restaurants that book up almost as quickly as reservations become available. If you want to dine with Disney royalty at Cinderella's Royal Table, for example, you'll want to make your reservation as soon as you can. Remember, that is 60 days prior to your visit — if you are staying at a Disney World hotel, you can make reservations for your entire vacation 60 days prior to your check-in day.

Related: 'Be our guest' at these 5 best character dining meals at Walt Disney World

Other reservations that book up quickly include Storybook Dining at Artist Point , Space 220 at Epcot, California Grill, 'Ohana, Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater at Hollywood Studios and Topolino's Terrace, especially for the character breakfast. All of these have great food and atmosphere, making them popular for new and returning guests.

Best quick-service restaurants at Disney that don't require a reservation

Luckily, there are plenty of Disney restaurants with delicious food you can get your hands on without a reservation. Satuli Canteen in Pandora — The World of Avatar at Disney's Animal Kingdom is consistently ranked as one of the best quick-service restaurants anywhere at Disney. The food is fresh, flavorful and surprisingly inexpensive. You can get a build-your-own bowl with beef, chicken or fish for less than $20.

Other must-try quick-service restaurants include Ronto Roasters at Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge (the Ronto Breakfast Wrap is the best handheld meal at Disney!), Columbia Harbour House at Magic Kingdom for New England-inspired fare and Regal Eagle Smokehouse at Epcot for all things barbecue.

Using the Disney app to improve your dining experience

The My Disney Experience app is a must for your Disney World vacation for checking wait times, finding your way around and more. When it comes to dining, you can use it to find walk-up dining availability, score last-minute reservations, see what restaurants are nearby, and place mobile orders at select quick-service restaurants.

When you place a mobile order via the app, you choose what time you would like to pick up your order (with the option to modify if plans change). When you arrive at the restaurant, you can click "I'm here. Prepare my order," and you'll receive a notification on your phone when your food is ready.

Should you buy a Disney Dining Plan?

The cost of dining at Disney can add up quickly, and Disney offers two dining plan options that may help you save money. The Disney Dining Plan lets you prepay for a specified number of meals and snacks for your Disney World vacation. You receive a certain number of meal and snack credits for each night of your stay.

The Disney Dining Plan is both convenient and flexible. By prepaying for your meals and snacks, you won't have to pull out your wallet for every meal and snack, and you aren't required to use a set number of credits each day. You can redeem them anytime during your stay in the way that best works for you.

There are two options — the Disney Quick Service Dining Plan and the Disney Dining Plan. The first is a bit less expensive and allows for more flexibility. The second is best if you plan on more sit-down dining and character meals during your vacation.

Whether or not you can save money with a Disney Dining Plan depends on how you utilize the credits. It is possible to break even or come out ahead if you maximize the value of your credits and actually eat all of the food available on the plan. If you don't use all of your credits, you are essentially leaving money on the table, but our guide can help you out with the math.

Read our full guide to the Disney Dining Plan .

How to save time in line at Disney World

Most Walt Disney World attractions offer a standby line. The only exceptions are new attractions, which will often offer a virtual queue for a limited time after opening. When Disney World is busy, though, standby lines for popular attractions can climb as high as two hours. Luckily, Disney has a service called Disney Genie+ that helps you skip the standby line and get on more attractions with shorter waits.

With Disney Genie+, you can skip the standby line and utilize a much shorter "Lightning Lane" for most attractions. You can only purchase this add-on service on the day of your visit, beginning at midnight (though you will likely be safe waiting until you wake up in the morning except on Disney's busiest days).

The cost of Disney Genie+ varies per park and per day. The service starts at $15 per person per day and occasionally reaches a per-person price of $35 per day during the busy Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday season or in April during spring break. You can purchase Genie+ for one of Disney World's four theme parks or a "multiple park" option valid at all four parks when you purchase through the My Disney Experience app.

Most attractions are included in the Disney Genie+ service, but one or two attractions at each park require a separate Lightning Lane purchase to skip the line. It's not necessary to purchase Genie+ to buy individual Lightning Lane selections and vice versa. The individual Lightning Lane attraction pricing varies by attraction but typically ranges between $7 and $25 per person, per attraction.

Read our full guide to Disney Genie+ .

If you are staying in one of Disney's on-site hotels or in select "Good Neighbor" hotels, as mentioned in the section above, you can also save time in line by utilizing Early Theme Park Entry and/or Extended Evening Theme Park Hours. You can get into the parks 30 minutes early with the Early Entry benefit, but you actually want to arrive at the front gates 30-45 minutes before that time. This will give you time to get through security and to the roped-off area where they hold guests, making you one of the first in line to rush to your favorite ride when early entry starts.

Related: Your guide to visiting Disney World with a child on the autism spectrum

If you or someone in your party has a disability that makes it difficult for you to wait in a traditional standby queue, you can also save time by registering for Disney's Disability Access Service (DAS). You need to start the registration process before your visit, and full instructions are available on Disney's website .

How to plan a Disney World trip on a budget

While sensational stories about $2,500 meals at Disney make for good headlines, it is totally possible to visit Disney World on a budget .

Related: Yes, you can visit Disney World on a budget: Here's how I did it

Here are some of the most important things you can do to make your Disney vacation budget manageable:

• Stay at a Disney Value resort like Disney's All-Star Movies Resort or use Marriott points to stay at the Swan, Dolphin and Swan Reserve. Here are the best cards to get those points.
• Utilize Disney's complimentary parking and transportation for on-site guests instead of renting a car.
• Purchase groceries for some meals and snacks, and only buy one or two meals in the parks each day.
• Don't visit the parks every day you are at Disney and stick to one park per day, avoiding park hopping. You can save on tickets by spending a day swimming or visiting Disney Springs.
• Don't forget to periodically check Disney's website for discounts. Even after you book, you may be able to apply a hotel or vacation package discount that can save you even more money.
• Be on the lookout for discounted Disney gift cards to help cover the cost of your trip and/or use points for the tickets.
• Visit during less busy times of the year. Ticket prices are cheapest in August and September, with one-day tickets starting at $109.

Disney World pretrip checklist

Now that you've determined your budget, purchased your tickets, booked your hotel and made a few dining reservations, your trip is nearly planned. There are some other details you'll need to consider to make your trip as magical as it should be. Here's our ultimate Disney World pre-trip checklist:

• Pack accordingly : Depending on when you visit, you could be dealing with heat, humidity, afternoon showers, chilly temperatures or a mix of all of the above. It's important to pack comfortable shoes and clothing no matter when you visit, but you may also want rain gear, sun protection or a warm jacket, depending on the weather. You can read our full Disney World packing guide here .
• Download the My Disney Experience app : This app is an invaluable tool that you will use daily during your visit. You can use it to check everything from wait times to walk-up dining availability. You can also use it to navigate the parks with turn-by-turn walking directions, purchase Disney Genie+ and individual Lightning Lanes and even open your hotel room door.
• Check the park hours before your visit : You can view the park hours on the Walt Disney World website or the My Disney Experience app. Each park has separate opening and closing times, and parks occasionally close early for special events like Halloween and Christmas parties. When you view the park hours, you'll also be able to see times for any parades or fireworks shows happening each day of your visit and plan for early entry or extended theme park hours for eligible on-site hotel guests.
• Check the height requirements for attractions: If you are traveling to Disney World with young children, you can check the height requirements for attractions on Disney World's website or in the My Disney Experience app. There are also measuring stations at all attractions that have a minimum height requirement, but it's better to know ahead of time to avoid tears if your child isn't quite tall enough.
• Know where to find your favorite characters : Most Disney characters have designated meeting times and locations, which you can find in the My Disney Experience app. Booking a character meal can be a great way to meet multiple characters at once, but you can also meet many characters in the parks. Popular meet-and-greets also offer Genie+ Lightning Lane access, which can cut down on the time you spend waiting to meet Mickey, Moana or Cinderella.
• Decide if you want to purchase PhotoPass photos : You can save money on Disney Memory Maker by purchasing in advance before you visit. It's the easiest way to capture your vacation memories and an add-on we highly recommend. You can view and download your photos in the My Disney Experience app.
• Study up on Genie+: As helpful as Genie+ can be, there is a bit of a learning curve. Study up using our Genie+ guide and Disney's own overview before your visit. It's good to know which attractions participate in Genie+, how to reserve Lightning Lane access and how to make the most of the service.
• Plan for downtime: One of the biggest mistakes people make at Disney World is overscheduling their trip and leaving no time for rest and relaxation. If you are visiting for more than a few days, try and schedule a day away from the parks where you swim, explore the other resorts or just lounge around the hotel. It'll help rejuvenate you for the rest of your trip. For shorter trips, you may want to schedule a slow morning or return to your hotel early one day instead of being at the parks from opening to closing every day of your trip.

Read all of our best Disney World tips here .

Bottom line

There you have it — the ultimate guide to visiting Walt Disney World.

In addition to the planning and preparation you've now mastered, there are two very important things you must do during your Disney World vacation — don't overplan and have fun. It's much better to have a short list of "must-do" rides, restaurants and activities than to have a minute-by-minute itinerary that most certainly will not play out exactly how you planned.

Keeping a loose itinerary leaves room for magic moments like stumbling upon a favorite character, noticing a super-short line for a ride or deciding last-minute to watch a parade you happened upon. You can't do everything in one trip anyway, so do the things you can and save the rest for next time when you are a certified Disney pro.

FOR NO-COST-TO-YOU ASSISTANCE IN PLANNING AND BOOKING YOUR DISNEY VACATION, CHECK OUT TPG'S DISNEY BOOKING PARTNER, MOUSE COUNSELORS .

Related reading:

• The best Disney World hotels for your stay
• The 21 most underrated things at Disney World: What to see, do and eat that many guests miss
• Forgetting to do this 1 thing could ruin your Disney trip
• Disney's take on timeshares: Guide to Disney Vacation Club
• 8 Walt Disney World experiences that don't require a park ticket

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2024 Universal Orlando Resort Map in Florida (Printable PDFs)

This is a full map of the Universal Orlando Resort in Florida that shows the locations of the parks, CityWalk, and hotels. After the original park Universal Studios Florida opened in 1990, the resort has expanded dramatically and is now home to two theme parks, Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure, as well as the water park Universal Volcano Bay and the shopping, dining, and entertainment center Universal CityWalk. Universal Orlando is adding even more experiences as the new Epic Universe park is opening in 2025 .

Universal Orlando also has several resort hotels located across property which are marked on the map. Guests staying onsite have various ways to get around the resort including bus transportation, water taxi, and walking paths. The resort occupies about 541 acres total and offers a wealth of attractions, entertainment, and dining locations.

The two theme parks, Universal Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida, are located within walking distance of one another and Universal CityWalk. Universal Volcano Bay is a short distance away and is accessible via a complimentary shuttle from the parking area to the water park.

If you are planning a visit, be sure to see our full Universal Studios Orlando guide for everything you need to know and our guide to Universal Orlando ticket prices .

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In this planning guide:

Overall Universal Orlando Resort Map With Hotels, CityWalk, Parks

👉🏾 CLICK HERE to See the Universal Studios Orlando Bag Policy EXPLAINED For 2024

Below, you can see an overview map of the Universal Orlando Resort including Universal Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios Florida, Universal Volcano Bay, Universal CityWalk, and the onsite hotels. See everything you need to know about Universal Orlando's onsite hotels in our full guide! The map also includes the names of some of the popular attractions in the parks and CityWalk.

Near the middle of the map is the centrally located CityWalk, located within walking distance of Islands of Adventure (to its left on the map below) and Universal Studios Florida (to its right on the map below). To the upper left of the map below, you'll see Volcano Bay, located a quick shuttle ride away from Universal CityWalk.

***Click for a pdf download of the Universal Orlando Resort map for an overview of the resort layout ***  

Below, will share pdf downloads for the maps of each of the parks and Universal CityWalk Orlando for you to refer to as you are planning your vacation. See the Universal Studios Florida map, Universal Islands of Adventure map, Universal Volcano Bay map, and Universal CityWalk Orlando map below.

Universal Studios Florida Map 2024

Universal Studios Florida is the original of the two theme parks at the Universal Orlando Resort that brings popular films and TV shows to life through a variety of attractions and experiences. This park is home to popular rides like Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, Revenge of the Mummy, and more.

Universal Studios Florida is divided into nine themed areas—Minion Land, New York, San Francisco, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter—Diagon Alley, World Expo, Springfield U.S.A.: Home of the Simpsons, DreamWorks Land, and Hollywood, which are all located around a lagoon.

See the Universal Studios Florida map below detailing its attractions, entertainment, and dining locations:

***See our full breakdown of the Universal Studios Florida map, including an overview of the layout of the park, maps of each of its lands, and a printable pdf download, in our guide to the 2024 Universal Studios Florida map ***

Universal Islands of Adventure Map 2024

Universal Islands of Adventure is the second of the two theme parks that was built for the Universal Orlando Resort. It is divided into various islands with different themes—Port of Entry, Marvel Super Hero Island, Toon Lagoon, Skull Island: Reign of Kong, Jurassic Park, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, The Lost Continent, and Seuss Landing—that are situated around a lagoon.

Universal Islands of Adventure is home to several popular thrill rides like the VelociCoaster, Hagrid's Motorbike Adventure, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, Jurassic Park River Adventure, and more.

See the Universal Islands of Adventure map below:

***See our full breakdown of the Universal Islands of Adventure map, including an overview of the layout of the park, maps of each of its islands, and a printable pdf download, in our guide to the 2024 Universal Islands of Adventure map ***

Universal Volcano Bay Map 2024

Universal Volcano Bay is Universal Orlando Resort's water park that is based around a giant volcano called Krakatau. It has multiple attractions of varying thrill levels including slides, raft rides, lazy rivers, and more. Universal Volcano Bay is home to popular rides like Honu of the Honu ika Moana, Kala & Tai Nui Serpentine Body Slides, and Krakatau Aqua Coaster.

Universal Volcano Bay has three different villages—Rainforest Village, River Village, and Wave Village—situated around the volcano. See the Universal Volcano Bay map below:

***See our full breakdown of the Universal Volcano Bay map, including an overview of the layout of the park, maps of each of its villages, and a printable pdf download, in our guide to the 2024 Universal Volcano Bay map ***

Universal CityWalk Orlando Map 2024

👉🏾 CLICK HERE to See Our Best Tips for Visiting Universal Orlando To Maximize Time and Experience Everything

Universal CityWalk Orlando is the shopping, dining, and entertainment center that is connected to the two theme parks of the resort, Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure, and guests who are going to these destinations will walk through it. CityWalk has a ground level, a second level, and a few locations across the lagoon between the two theme park entrances.

You'll find popular table service destinations here like The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen, favorite quick service stops like Voodoo Donut, and bars like Red Coconut Club. You can also enjoy entertainment like mini-golf at Hollywood Drive-In Golf or shopping at the Universal Studios Store here.

See the Universal CityWalk Orlando map below:

***See our full breakdown of the Universal CityWalk Orlando map, including an overview of the layout and all locations in our guide to the 2024 Universal CityWalk Orlando map ***

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Universal Heads for Disney’s Throat: Monumental Expansion Approved, 4th Theme Park Incoming

in Universal Orlando

Walt Disney World, watch out: Epic Universe is gearing up for a major expansion before it even opens.

Universal Orlando Resort is on the cusp of a transformation unlike any other with the highly anticipated arrival of Universal Epic Universe. This innovative theme park promises to whisk guests away to a world of vibrant lands, immersive experiences, and beloved stories.

A Journey Begins: Celestial Park

The adventure unfolds upon entering the park through the Emerald Gate and the Chronos device, the heart of Celestial Park. This celestial hub, inspired by astrology and mythology, serves as the “world between worlds,” connecting guests to the diverse lands surrounding it. As night falls, Celestial Park undergoes a breathtaking transformation, illuminated by a dazzling display of lights.

Celestial Park offers a variety of experiences for guests of all ages. Thrill-seekers can soar through the skies on the Stardust Racers, a dual-launch coaster that reaches speeds of up to 62 miles per hour. For a more whimsical journey, the Constellation Carousel allows guests to embark on a celestial adventure aboard fantastical creatures.

Families can cool off and have fun at Astronamica, an interactive wet play area, while others can savor fresh seafood and captivating views of the park at the Atlantic Restaurant.

For those seeking culinary adventures, a variety of options await. The Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant offers a taste of Asia with dishes from China, Southeast Asia, and Japan. Landlubbers can indulge in delicious barbecue fare at The Oak & Star Tavern, while pizza lovers can grab a slice at Pizza Moon. For a touch of sweetness, Moonship Chocolates & Celestial Sweets offers a tempting selection of chocolates and delightful treats.

Power Up! Super Nintendo World

Step into the iconic world of Super Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and Donkey Kong at Super Nintendo World. Blending the lines between reality and video games, this interactive land invites guests to become players in their favorite Nintendo games. Feel the rush of Mario Kart through augmented reality and projection mapping technology on Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge.

Take a family-friendly ride with the Yoshis as you explore the Mushroom Kingdom on Yoshi’s Adventure, or help Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong protect the golden banana on the thrilling Mine-Cart Madness coaster. Refuel after your adventures at Toadstool Cafe, where delicious dishes inspired by Super Mario characters await.

Enhance your experience with themed Power-Up Bands that allow you to collect coins, complete challenges, and face off against Bowser Jr. Meet iconic characters throughout the Mushroom Kingdom and shop for souvenirs, apparel, and toys at 1-UP Factory and Mario Motors.

Soar with Dragons: How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk

Fulfill your Viking dreams and explore the world of Hiccup, Astrid, and Toothless at How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk. This vibrant land, set during the golden age of harmony between Vikings and dragons, features a variety of attractions for all ages. Take a thrilling ride aboard Hiccup’s new glider contraption and experience Berk from a dragon’s perspective on Hiccup’s Wing Gliders.

Witness a live stage show featuring Berk’s beloved Vikings facing off against a formidable foe in The Untrainable Dragon. Test your aerobatic maneuvers on the high-thrill flying attraction Dragon Racer’s Rally, or join Ruffnut and Tuffnut in an epic water battle on a Viking boat ride at Fyre Drill.

Aspiring young dragon riders can explore a sprawling play area hosted by Fishlegs at Viking Training Camp. Meet Hiccup, Toothless, and other iconic characters from the How to Train Your Dragon franchise, and feast on hearty Viking meals and unique beverages at the fast-casual restaurant Mead Hall.

Enter a World of Mystery: Dark Universe

Dark Universe promises to breathe new life into classic Universal Monsters, such as the experiments of Dr. Victoria Frankenstein. This chilling land will be shrouded in mystery and populated by iconic creatures.

A Magical Return: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Universal Orlando continues to expand the Wizarding World of Harry Potter with a brand new land. This all-new experience blends 1920s wizarding Paris from the Fantastic Beasts films with the iconic British Ministry of Magic from the Harry Potter series. Details about the spellbinding ride within this land remain under wraps for now.

Unveiling the Hotels

Universal Epic Universe will be complemented by three new hotels, each offering a unique experience. The Helios Grand Hotel, named after the Greek God of the Sun, takes inspiration from the Mediterranean and features cosmic characteristics throughout its decor. Universal Stella Nova Resort draws inspiration from distant galaxies, while Universal Terra Luna takes its cues from the diverse and awe-inspiring planetary elements of the universe.

Guests staying at these hotels will enjoy benefits such as Early Park Admission and resort-wide charging privileges, with convenient and complimentary shuttles providing access to Universal Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios Florida, Universal Volcano Bay and Universal CityWalk.

Expanding Epic Universe

Now, it is been unveiled that Universal is gearing up to expand Epic Universe past the 700+ acre land that it lies on. Orlando Business Journal shared that an additional 1300 acres of land has been purchased next to Epic Universe.

Wallin Ballin shared the news as well over X, “BREAKING: Universal’s development district (Shingle Creek) has added 1300 acres of land in addition to the 700 acres of land purchased for Epic Universe. Remember what I said about Epic Universe being the beginning? Remember what I said about Disney getting desperate?”

BREAKING: Universal’s development district (Shingle Creek) has added 1300 acres of land in addition to the 700 acres of land purchased for Epic Universe. Remember what I said about Epic Universe being the beginning? Remember what I said about Disney getting desperate? pic.twitter.com/2KvMIYdGxT — Wallin Ballin (@wallin_ballin) June 12, 2024

Wallin Ballin also shared the land that Epic currently takes up, and what was recently purchased, “On the left, is the previous Epic Universe plot of land. On the right, is the new ginormous expansion. Universal isn’t messing around. They want their own WDW and by golly they’re going to do it.”

It is unclear at the moment if this land will be used to expand Epic Universe into a monster-sized park, or, if this will serve as a fourth gate theme park for Universal.

On the left, is the previous Epic Universe plot of land. On the right, is the new ginormous expansion. Universal isn’t messing around. They want their own WDW and by golly they’re going to do it. 👀 pic.twitter.com/ulZOIhx3oS — Wallin Ballin (@wallin_ballin) June 12, 2024

If Universal does use this as a fourth gate, they would be neck in neck with Walt Disney World when it comes to theme park offerings. While Disney does have an extra water park, they have never had both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach open at the same time since the pandemic, which would leave their offerings equal to Universal’s if this fourth park is built.

Epic Universe will be opening in 2025, and there is already a preview center available for guests to check out at CityWalk, but no more information on this expansion has been shared just yet.

Orlando Business Journal wrote,

“Documents filed May 29 with Orange County by Universal City Development Partners Ltd., a subsidiary of Universal Orlando Resort, show the original plan to include 700 acres in the planned development has now expanded to over 2,000 acres. After a review, the Orange County Development Review Committee approved the plan on June 7, according to Fast Track online services.”

Currently, three significant expansions are underway within Universal’s parks and experiences team. In addition to Universal’s Epic Universe opening at Universal Orlando, Florida, in 2025, Universal Kids Resort will be established in Texas, and Universal Horror Unleashed will offer year-round Halloween Horror Nights experiences in Las Vegas, with a new section of AREA15 being developed.

Additionally, Universal has acquired land in the U.K. for the development of Universal’s Great Britain.

Will Disney Build a 5th Park in Orlando?

Months after Disney and Gov. Ron DeSantis’ appointees agreed to end a lengthy legal battle, both parties are poised to approve an agreement that could lead to Disney investing up to $17 billion in its Florida resort, potentially paving the way for a fifth major theme park at Walt Disney World.

Recently, the five DeSantis-appointed supervisors overseeing the Disney World district voted to give initial approval to a new development agreement, negotiated following a March settlement that ended their state court lawsuits.

A second vote for final approval is scheduled.

“We are heading towards a brand new day, and I’m excited about where this is going,” said Charbel Barakat, vice chair of the district’s board. “I only wish we could have gotten here sooner.”

Woody Rodriguez, director of external affairs for Disney parks, informed board members that the agreement would enable substantial investments in Disney World.

According to the deal, Disney would be allowed to build a fifth major theme park and two additional minor parks, such as water parks, over the next decade or two. The number of hotel rooms on Disney property could increase from nearly 40,000 to over 53,000, and retail and restaurant space would expand by more than 20%. Disney would maintain control over building heights to preserve an immersive environment.

In return, Disney would donate up to 100 acres of its 24,000-acre property for district-controlled infrastructure projects. Additionally, Disney would commit to awarding at least half of its construction projects to Florida-based companies and spending at least $10 million on affordable housing for central Florida.

As Disney recently stated, “The Walt Disney Company is developing plans to accelerate and expand investment in its Parks, Experiences and Products segment to nearly double capital expenditures over the course of approximately 10 years to roughly $60 billion, including by investing in expanding and enhancing domestic and international parks and cruise line capacity.”

While the amount is to be shared with Disney Cruise Line, it would still be heavily focused on park growth and development with the goal of increasing capacity.

“We’re incredibly mindful of the financial underpinning of the company, the need to continue to grow in terms of bottom line, the need to invest wisely so that we’re increasing the returns on invested capital, and the need to maintain a balance sheet, for a variety of reasons,” said Disney CEO Bob Iger.

“The company is able to absorb those costs and continue to grow the bottom line and look expansively at how we return value and capital to our shareholders.”

Knowing this, there is a chance we will see Walt Disney World fight back against its fierce competitor.

What do you think of this news of an Epic Universe expansion? 

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I change or modify my reservation?

How to Get Early Park Admission to Universal Orlando

This article is your guide on how to get early park admission at Universal Orlando!  As a general rule of thumb, guests can get early park admission to Universal Orlando by staying at an official Universal Orlando hotel, purchasing multi-day tickets from a registered Universal Orlando travel agency, or upgrading to a Universal Orlando annual pass.

We hope you find this post helpful! Our goal at The Park Prodigy has always been to help you save time and money on your next Universal Orlando vacation!  If you are planning a trip to Universal Orlando be sure to check out the latest deals on Universal Orlando vacation packages and our discounted Universal Orlando tickets which include EARLY PARK ADMISSION to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!

How to Get Early Park Admission to Universal Studios Orlando?

Let’s start this guide with the most popular question on this topic: how do you get early park admission to Universal Orlando? Families can get early park admission to Universal Orlando by staying at an official Universal Orlando hotel , purchasing multi-day tickets from a registered Universal Orlando travel agency like The Park Prodigy, or upgrading to a Universal Orlando annual pass. It’s important to note that the only way to get early park admission with a one-day ticket is to stay at an official Universal Orlando hotel.

Official Universal Orlando hotels with early park admission

As highlighted earlier, every official Universal Orlando Resort Hotel provides the coveted benefit of early park admission. These hotels include Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites & Dockside Inn and Suites, Universal’s Aventura Resort, Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort, Sapphire Falls Resort, Hard Rock Resort, Loews Portofino Bay Resort, and Loews Royal Pacific Resort. Guests can also revel in additional perks like Free Universal Express passes (available at select hotels), complimentary transportation, and priority seating at certain on-site restaurants. Guests who stay at any of the hotels noted above will simply show their room key to get into the parks for early admission and it’s also important to note that park admission is required as well. It’s also important to note that this option is the best for families who are only looking to visit Universal Orlando for one day

Special Promotion: The best part is right now The Park Prodigy is running a promotion for anyone who books a 2-night or more Universal Orlando vacation package! Simply check our all available rooms on our Universal Orlando vacation package page and use promo code Magic50 at checkout for an additional $50 off your next family vacation!

Purchasing multi-day tickets from a Travel Agency

As discussed, another one of the easiest ways to get Universal Orlando early park admission is to buy your multi-day Universal tickets from a travel agency like The Park Prodigy!   All of the multi-day Universal Orlando tickets we sell through our small business will include this early admission to Universal Orlando. For this reason, this can be a great option for families who already have a hotel or who are looking to stay at one of the official Universal Orlando-friendly neighbor hotels.

Buy a Universal Orlando annual pass

Guests who upgrade to a Universal Orlando annual pass will also have access to early park admission at the theme parks. However, it’s important to note that you will only have early park admission during the dates that your pass is valid, so if you have any block out dates, you will not be able to visit the parks just for early admission that day.

Related Post: Discount Mult-Day Universal Orlando Tickets

Is Universal Orlando Early Park Admission Worth It?

In a word, emphatically, yes! In our opinion it’s always worth it to take advantage of early park admission at Universal Orlando because it includes some of the most popular rides which are found within The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Now it’s important to note that Universal will typically have one of the main two theme parks open, and we would always lean to try to use it as Islands of Adventure when that park is open. However, from what we have found, guests can get onto 2-3 of the most popular rides within the first hour to an hour and a half when using early park admission the right way. For this reason, we always recommend to take advantage of early park admission when visiting Universal Orlando especially if you are only visiting Universal for one day and trying to see both Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios.

When to use early park admission at Universal Orlando

• You’re trying to ride the new Velocicoaster, Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, Escape From Gringotts, Hogwarts The Forbidden Journey, or Flight of the Hippogriff with significantly less wait.
• You want to enjoy The Wizarding World of Harry Potter while it’s less crowded.
• You’re visiting during a day when crowds are heavy (we recommend any crowds 7+ on our Universal Orlando crowd calendar.
• Any time you’re visiting Volcano Bay (we have been able to get on 4-5 rides before the parks even open!)
• You’re only visiting Universal for one day, and you’re trying to get as much done as possible.
• You want to enjoy a nice breakfast at one of the open restaurants before your busy day at the parks.
• You want to take pictures and shop in Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley with fewer people around.

Related Post: Universal Orlando Early Park Admission Tickets

Universal Orlando Early Park Admission FAQ

How can I get Universal Orlando Early Park Admission ?

Guests staying at Universal Orlando Resort hotels, Universal Annual Passholders, and those purchasing their multi-day tickets through authorized travel agents like The Park Prodigy are typically eligible for Universal Early Park Admission .

Does Universal Early Park Admission include access to all parks?

It’s important to check the specific details as access might vary depending on the time of year and Universal most likely won’t have all three parks open at the same time for early park admission. They typically always have one of the main two theme parks open with Volcano Bay. However during the busier times of year such as the holidays we could see both Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida open.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Universal Orlando?

Our   Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar  is the best tool to help you get the most out of your time in the parks. We break down the park crowds, park hours of operation, ticket prices by day, and average temperature.

Are You Ready to Plan Your Next Universal Orlando Trip?

If you’re ready to plan your trip to  Universal Studios,  be sure to check out  Universal Orlando Tickets!   Not only will you save money vs buying direct, but all of our Universal Orlando tickets come with some amazing benefits that can help save you up to three hours in the parks!

And to stay up to date on everything going on inside the theme parks be sure to check out our partners at  Themeparktoday.com!

Who We Recommend

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Michael Belmont

Michael Belmont is the owner at Theparkprodigy.com, an authorized Disney and Universal travel agent. He specializes in Disney and Universal theme park tickets and vacation packages, as well as daily park plans to help optimize vacation time. Michael and The Park Prodigy have been featured on ABC’s Florida affiliate, WTFV, as well as over 10 Disney focused blogs. As owner, Michael manages The Park Prodigy blog and social media, a Disney themed podcast, and a Disney and Universal focused YouTube channel. Prior to starting The Park Prodigy, Michael was a long time Disney and Universal enthusiast, frequent visitor of the parks, and even served as a Walt Disney World Cast Member in Orlando, Florida!

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You can visit Disney World, Universal for under $100 a day: Summer ticket deals

C entral Florida can swelter in the summer, with high temperatures and what feels like even higher humidity. But it’s still a popular time to visit the region’s theme parks . 

This year, those who brave the heat can be rewarded with ticket deals at destinations like Walt Disney World , Universal Orlando Resort and LEGOLAND Florida , all starting at under $100 a day. SeaWorld Orlando tickets drop as low as $60 on select dates.

Here’s what travelers planning summer theme park vacations should know. 

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How much is a ticket to Disney World?

Disney World tickets vary by date and park. For one-day, one-park admission for guests ages 10 and up, starting prices range from $109 at Disney's Animal Kingdom to $124 at Magic Kingdom.

However, the resort is offering two ticket deals for spring and summer.

• The 4-Day, 4-Park Magic Ticket costs $396, which works out to $99 a day. It includes one day at each of Disney World’s four theme parks, without park-hopping or repeating parks. Visits must start between April 2 and Sept. 22 and end within seven days of the start date.
• The 3-Day, 3-Park Magic Ticket costs $267, which works out to $89 a day. It includes one day each at EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom, without park-hopping or repeating parks. Admission to Magic Kingdom is not included. Visits must start between April 2 and Sept. 24 and end within five days of the start date.

Your next Disney trip could cost more, depending on when and where you visit

How much does it cost to get into Orlando’s Universal Studios?

One-day, one-park admission to either Universal Studios Florida or Universal Islands of Adventure starts at $119 for guests ages 10 and up.

Universal Orlando Resort is offering a 2-Park Play 4 Days Promotional Ticket starting at $306.99, however, which works out to just under $77 a day. Guests can visit both parks each day. Visits don’t have to be consecutive, but they must all fall within seven days of the start date. The deal is available through the mid-December on the resort’s website.

How can I save money at SeaWorld Orlando?

Non-discounted SeaWorld Orlando tickets cost $139.99. However the park's website offers various deals throughout the year.

In March, there was a $60 throwback ticket in honor of SeaWorld’s 60th anniversary, March 21. Prices don't typically drop that low, but the best deals are usually online.

Who gets in free at LEGOLAND Florida?

Admission is free for guests under the age of 2 at LEGOLAND Florida . 

After that, one-day theme park tickets start at $74 online or $119 at the front gate, according to the resort’s website. Admission to neighboring LEGOLAND Water Park or Peppa Pig Theme Park costs extra. There’s also a convenience fee for online purchases.

Through Aug. 29, travelers can get specially priced $29 kids tickets with the purchase of a full-priced multi-park ticket starting at $94. Up to four kids’ tickets, for children ages 2 to 12, can be purchased in one transaction.

Travelers should note LEGOLAND Florida is in Winter Haven, about 50 miles from Orlando.

Is Busch Gardens the most expensive?

No, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is not the most expensive theme park in Central Florida. Its website lists non-discounted tickets at $139.99, tying in price with sister park SeaWorld Orlando. Also, like SeaWorld, Busch Gardens’ website regularly offers discounts bringing starting prices below $100. Offers and prices vary by date.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is more than 80 miles from Orlando, but the park operates a free shuttle to and from Orlando for ticketed guests.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: You can visit Disney World, Universal for under $100 a day: Summer ticket deals