UnIVERSAL ORLANDO RESORT

Independent guide to visiting Universal Orlando Resort

All You Need to Know About Visiting UNIVERSAL ORLANDO RESORT

Discover the magic and fun waiting for you in florida!

Looking for excitement, adventure, and a touch of movie magic? Universal Orlando Resort is the place to be! Nestled in sunny Orlando, Florida, this world-famous resort welcomes millions of happy visitors every year. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a film fan, or just searching for a fantastic getaway, you’ll find something to love here.

Our aim is to assist you in navigating the attractions, theme parks, queueing systems, and ticket purchasing options that you can explore during your visit.

View of Universal Studios with Globe in foreground and complex in background

Universal Theme Parks

Discover the most enjoyable way to explore the four primary theme parks: Universal Studios Resort, Islands of Adventure, Volcano Bay, and EPIC Universe. Also, be sure to check out CityWalk.

Tricks and Joke shop in Diagon Alley Universal Studios

Shopping & Entertainment

Discover a wide range of entertainment options for the entire family at Universal Studios Resort. Shop for unique gifts and souvenirs and savor Universal’s themed dining experiences.

Hard Rock Hotel Universal Studios

Stay at Universal Orlando Resort

You have the option to stay at one of the numerous theme park hotels or select from nearby major chain hotels. With countless accommodation options to choose from in and close to the resort.

Ticket and planning options at UnivERSAL oRLANDO

There is a broad range of options and methods available for utilizing various ticket types. It’s advisable to gather as much information as possible about the most suitable ticket type for your needs before making a purchase.

Visit our ticket pages to discover all the options available and information on selecting the right ticket at the best price for you.

Person holding a Universal Orlando Resort ticket

Universal Orlando Resort Tickets

Your practical guide to the wide range of tickets available at Universal Orlando Resort.

Universal Orlando Resort App on mobile phone

Universal Orlando Resort App

Discover the Walt Disney World Resort App and how it can help you navigate the parks and find tickets.

Fast Track Tickets to Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Orlando Resort - online deals and offers

  • 2-park and 3-park pass
  • Park to Park tickets
  • Online saver tickets

Tickets & Passes

Universal Orlando Resort Theme Parks

The resort is divided into four spectacular theme parks along with CityWalk a vibrant dining, shopping, and entertainment district located at the heart of Universal Orlando Resort.

Universal Studios bronze statue of old style film making

Universal Studios

Step right into the movies!  Jump into the action with attractions inspired by blockbusters and TV favourites. Buckle up for high-speed rides like Fast & Furious or have a laugh with The Simpsons and Despicable Me.

Winged hog pillar tops at entrance to Hogsmeade

Islands of Adventure

Explore amazing worlds, from the magical streets of Hogsmeade in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter to the prehistoric jungles of Jurassic Park. There’s something for everyone, with jaw-dropping coasters and plenty of fun for the whole family.

Entrance to Epic Universe

Epic Universe

Universal’s Epic Universe is Universal Orlando’s expansive new theme park, featuring entirely new worlds and innovative attractions. The park is designed as a vast “theme park universe,” with each world being a deeply immersive, self-contained land connected to a central hub.

Universal CityWalk

When the parks close, the fun keeps going!

CityWalk is packed with places to eat, shop, dance, and catch a show. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Universal Orlando Resort Water Park

Need to cool off or just relax? Head over to this tropical water park paradise.

Volcano Bay

Pair of sunglasses on a stripped towel

Offering a variety of water attractions, slides, and a lazy river all centred around the large iconic Krakatau volcano. Housing the Krakatau Aqua Coaster a thrilling water ride that takes thrill seekers through the volcano itself.

Staying at Universal Orlando Resort

Make your trip even easier by staying at one of Universal’s themed hotels. Options range from budget-friendly to ultra-luxurious, and hotel guests get cool perks like Early Park Admission and free rides to the parks.

Staying On-site or Off-site

Of course, choosing where to stay is one of the biggest decisions when planning a trip to Universal Orlando Resort. The choice between “On-Site” and “Off-Site” accommodations fundamentally shapes your vacation experience, budget, and convenience.

Benefits of staying On-site

  • Early Park Admission
  • Free Universal Express Unlimited Pass
  • Complimentary Transportation & Water Taxies
  • Charging Privileges to your Room Key
  • Packages Delivered to your Hotel
  • Theming and Immersion
  • Priority Dining Reservations

Benefits of staying On-site

  • Lower Cost
  • Generally, More Room Space for your Money
  • Kitchen Facilities
  • Variety of Amenities
  • Exploration of Orlando Area
Hard Rock Hotel Universal Studios
Hard Rock Hotel

Recommendations

In general, if you want to immerse yourself in the Universal experience, especially Harry Potter, and you want the ultimate in convenience and time-saving perks, stay on-site. If your group would use Express Passes, strongly consider a Premier Hotel for the incredible bundled value.

If you are on a tighter budget, traveling with a large group that needs space, or plan to spend significant time outside the Universal parks, you will likely find better value staying off-site.

Summary

Feature

On-Site

Off-Site

Biggest Perk

Early Park Admission & Free Express Pass (for Premier Hotels)

Lower Cost & More Space

Convenience

Free & Frequent transport to parks

May require car rental, rideshares, or hotel shuttles

Theming/Immersion

Amazing, part of the Universal experience

Standard hotel or residential feel

Cost

Higher per night, although perks add value

Generally lower per night, but add costs for parking, transportation, and Express Passes

Room Size

Standard hotel rooms (suits available)

Often larger; vacation homes offer multiple bedrooms

Dining

Charging to hotel room

Relies on hotel restaurants, driving, or delivery

Best For

  • Park-Centric Visitors
  • Those who want to maximise park time
  • Families who will benefit from the included Express Pass

Budget-Conscious Visitors & Large Groups: Those prioritizing space and cost or planning to visit other Orlando attractions.

Stay in the Resort

Check out the best places to stay in the Universal Orlando Resort.

Stay outside the resort

Explore the hotels situated just outside the main resorts gates.

Stay on the outskirts

Stay slightly further away for cheaper and quieter accommodation.

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