EDITOR’S NOTE: This blog was originally published in October of 2019 and then underwent extensive updates and editing in the summer of 2021 to remain current and relevant.
Universal Orlando Resort is a place that allows you to explore the streets of Diagon Alley at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, visit a real-life Raptor Encounter to meet Blue the Raptor, float down the Kopiko Wai Winding River at Volcano Bay, and finish with a cold beverage high in the sky at Bar 17 Bistro on top of Universal’s Aventura Hotel all in one day.
With so much to see and do, how can you get the most out of it during your first-time visit? Here’s a few first timer tips to get the most out of your upcoming visit.
| JUMP AHEAD |
| UNIVERSAL STUDIOS FLORIDA | ISLANDS OF ADVENTURE | UNIVERSAL VOLCANO BAY | UNIVERSAL CITYWALK | WHERE TO STAY | THINGS TO KNOW | WHAT TO BRING | WHAT TO WEAR |
WHAT TO EXPERIENCE
AT UNIVERSAL STUDIOS FLORIDA
Have you ever watched a movie and said “I wish I could experience that movie in real life.” Well, we have some good news for you. Check out these must-do experiences straight from the movies:
- Must-Do Attractions:
- Take a journey to the depths of Gringotts bank on the Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts ride
- Have your mind blown by the live action stunts during The Bourne Stuntacular
- Looking for a rip-roaring rush? Try the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
- Great for the family: Become a Minion on the Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
- Experience: Follow in Harry Potter’s footsteps as you enter into Diagon Alley – watch out for the fire breathing dragon
- Character Meet & Greet: Meet Optimus Prime, Bumblebee and Megatron
- Shopping: Find all things Universal and more at the Universal Studios Store
- Bonus: Journey from King’s Cross Station in Universal Studios Florida to Hogsmeade Station in Islands of Adventure aboard the Hogwarts Express (only available with a Park-to-Park admission ticket)
Great Places to Eat at Universal Studios Florida
- Quick Service: “Hey Hey, Kids!” Visit Springfield, U.S.A. and stop by Krusty Burger for a fun atmosphere and great meal.
- Best View: Try an off-the-charts meal and take in an incredible view of the lagoon at Richter’s Burger Co.
- Best Atmosphere: Get your fill of Bangers and Mash, Fisherman’s Pie, Toad in the Hole and more at the Leaky Cauldron
- Romantic: Try Lombard’s Fresh Catch at Lombard’s Seafood Grille while you take in the nautical atmosphere on the docks of San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf
- Sweet Treats: Try a Dole Whip Pineapple Sorbet at Schwab’s Pharmacy
Click here to view a complete list of Universal Studios Florida rides, attractions, dining and more.
Here are some resources to help plan your day:
- Best Option – Download the Official Universal Orlando Resort App
- Visit Universal Studios Interactive Map or Download Universal Studios Map
LOCAL TIP | Start at the back of the park and work your way counter-clockwise to the front to stay ahead of fellow guests and take full advantage of ride lines.
WHAT TO EXPERIENCE
AT UNIVERSAL ISLANDS OF ADVENTURE
Get ready to encounter dinosaurs, fly high above city streets with a famous web slinger, visit a secret school of witchcraft and wizardry, come face-to-face with a colossal ape and more. Check out these must do experiences that give you a sense of adventure:
- Must-Do Attractions:
- Race alongside Velociraptors at 70 miles per hour on the new Jurassic World VelociCoaster
- For the first time ever you can join and fly into the Forbidden Forest on Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, the epic new roller coaster in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
- Soar high above Hogwarts on Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
- Splash down on Jurassic Park River Adventure
- Feel the power and strength of becoming gamma-charged on The Incredible Hulk Coaster
- Character Meet & Greet: Take photos with your favorite Marvel characters – Spider-Man, Captain America, Cyclops, Wolverine, Storm, and Rogue along with classic villains like Dr. Doom and The Green Goblin in Marvel Super Hero Island at Universal Islands of Adventure
- Shopping: Witness a wand choose its wizard or witch at Ollivanders in Hogsmeade
Great Places to Eat at Islands of Adventure
- Quick Service: Enjoy a delicious meal at Three Broomsticks
- Best View: Eat while you watch daring riders get drenched at Thunder Falls Terrace in Jurassic Park
- Best Atmosphere: Dine with Super Heroes at Marvel’s Character Dinner at Marvel Super Hero Island in Islands of Adventure
- Romantic: Take in the spectacular view of the park’s inland sea and colorful lands from the award-winning Mythos Restaurant
- Sweet Treats: Pick up a delicious Butterbeer from Hog’s Head
Click here to view a complete list of Islands of Adventure rides, attractions, dining and more.
Here are some resources to help plan your day:
- Best Option – Download the Official Universal Orlando Resort App
- Visit Islands Of Adventure Interactive Map or Download The Islands Of Adventure Map
LOCAL TIP
- Start your day off in Hogsmeade and work your way clockwise around the park to take advantage of wait times and attractions.
WHAT TO EXPERIENCE
AT UNIVERSAL VOLCANO BAY
Words can’t describe what it feels like the moment you take that first step inside Volcano Bay and immediately feel like you’re in a tropical paradise thousands of miles away in the Pacific Ocean. Check out these must-do experiences that are filled with relaxation and thrills:
- Must-Do Attractions:
- Take the 70-degree fall through a drop door on the Ko’okiri Body Plunge
- Think your brave? Try taking on the Kala & Tai Nui Serpentine Body Slides
- Take on the twists, turns and drops of the Ohno of Ohyah & Ohno Drop Slides
- Grab 3 of your friends for a wild on the wild side with the Honu of the Honu ika Moana
- Experience: Float down the and relax on the Kopiko Wai Winding River or take on the challenge of TeAwa The Fearless River
- Experience: Lay out with a cold drink on Waturi Beach and take in that volcano view
- Shopping: Pick yourself up a soft Volcano Bay beach towel from the Waturi Marketplace
- Bonus: Relax, unwind and enjoy the charms of your own private cabana in paradise with extra-comfy seating, concierge service and more
Great Places to Eat at Volcano Bay
- Quick Service: Taste the tropics at Kohola Reef Restaurant & Social Club
- Best View: Take in that incredible view at the Dancing Dragons Boat Bar
- Tasty: Try the Mango BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich at Kohola Reef Restaurant & Social Club. It’s delicious!
- Best Atmosphere: Soak it all in from Whakawaiwai Eats with a pizza
Click here to view a complete list of Volcano Bay rides, dining and more.
Here are some resources to help plan your day:
- Best Option – Download the Official Universal Orlando Resort App
- Visit Volcano Bay Interactive Map or Download The Volcano Bay Map
LOCAL TIPS
- First, plan to arrive early to Volcano Bay and secure that perfect beach chair with that incredible view. TapuTapu will also make your day easy. This wearable device that holds your place in lines, activates interactive surprises, makes cash-free payments and more.
- Stay at a Universal hotel and enjoy early park admission to Universal Volcano Bay one hour before the park opens (valid theme park admission required).
WHAT TO EXPERIENCE
AT UNIVERSAL CITYWALK
Get ready to indulge in some of the most mouthwatering food with refreshing drinks, shop until you drop and dance the night away at Universal CityWalk. Check out these must-do experiences for a day or night out:
- Show: Belt out your favorite tunes with help from talented backup singers and a live band at Universal CityWalk’s Rising Star
- Experience: Challenge your friends to a round of mini golf at Hollywood Drive-In Golf or grab a cold beverage at the Lone Palm Airport at Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville
- Shopping: Forgot your vacation collectibles? Swing by the Universal Studios Store
- Bonus: Check out a show at the Hard Rock Live or catch an afternoon movie at Cinemark
Great Places to Eat at Universal CityWalk
- Quick Service: Try the best thing since sliced bread at Bread Box Handcrafted Sandwiches
- Best View: Enjoy a sunset while eating a Burgushi at The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar
- Best Atmosphere: Enjoying a Cheeseburger in Paradise at Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville
- Romantic: Indulge in true italian cuisine at VIVO Italian Kitchen
- Sweet Treat: Try one-of-a-kind delectables like the Dirt Doughnut, the Memphis Mafia and the Bacon Maple Bar at Voodoo Doughnut
Click here to view full list of entertainment, shopping and dining options at Universal CityWalk.
Here are some resources to help plan your visit:
- Best Option – Download the Official Universal Orlando Resort App
- Visit Universal Studios Interactive Map or Download The CityWalk Map
LOCAL TIPS
- Take advantage of the FREE self-parking after 6PM!(Not valid during Halloween Horror Nights. Additional restrictions may apply and are subject to change without notice)
- Free parking available with a purchase of two (2) Universal CityWalk Matinee tickets.
WHERE TO STAY
AT UNIVERSAL ORLANDO RESORT
There’s a Universal Orlando hotel for every family style and budget. Take a look at all the amazing places you can stay so close to the theme parks:
Premier Hotels – $$$$
Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
Relax in surroundings inspired by the beauty, romance and charm of the picturesque seaside village of Portofino, Italy.
- Experience: Treat yourself to a day at the Mandara Spa
- Feature: Spend an enchanted evening with live music and traditional opera as you sip wine and sample gourmet fare during Harbor Nights. Additionally, enjoy nightly festive melodies with Musica Della Notte, a unique blend of classic opera, festive melodies, and “popera” favorites
- Dining: Feel like you’re part of the family at Mama Della’s Ristorante with authentic Italian cooking and strolling musicians
- Benefits: Free Universal Express Unlimited, early park admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter & Universal Volcano Bay, free transportation, priority seating at restaurants and more
Learn more about Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
Hard Rock Hotel
Live like a rock star and savor the perks of rock ‘n’ roll royalty with impeccable surroundings, laid-back style and show-stopping service.
- Experience: Attend a monthly award-winning “Velvet Sessions” with an up-close and personal rock concert. Past performers include Bret Michaels, Eddie Money, Joan Jett, and more
- Feature: Take a self-guided Music Memorabilia tour and discover Elvis’ pajamas, John Lennon’s suit, Paul McCartney’s guitar, Lady GaGa’s leather outfit, Rihanna’s bodysuit and more
- Feature: Discover The Sound of Your Stay™ program with A-list perks. tracks.®, lets you stream a celebrity-curated playlists to amplify your stay. picks® allows you to choose from a menu of 20 different Fender® guitars that can be delivered to your room (down payment and loan agreement required)
- Dining: Stop by The Kitchen and dig into their famous mac and cheese. But don’t forget the encore – they’ve got some of the most jaw-dropping desserts you’ve ever seen
- Benefits: Free Universal Express Unlimited, early park admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter & Universal Volcano Bay, free transportation, priority seating at restaurants and more
Learn more about the Hard Rock Hotel
Loews Royal Pacific Resort
Get swept away in an exotic south seas paradise with tropical wonders, exotic foods, and carefree fun.
- Feature: Experience weekly Wantilan Luau firsthand with an evening of authentic Polynesian food and entertainment at this exciting dinner show
- Dining: Visit Jake’s American Bar where you can try fabled South Seas explorer Jake McNally themed favorites including island cocktails, Jake’s American Red Lager and the B-1 Bomber Burger
- Benefits: Free Universal Express Unlimited, early park admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter & Universal Volcano Bay, free transportation, priority seating at restaurants and more
Learn more about Loews Royal Pacific Resort
Preferred Hotel – $$$
Loews Sapphire Falls Resort
Escape to the feeling of being in paradise with the calming sounds of steel drums, swaying palm trees, scenic views, and blue cascading waterfalls.
- Experience: Take in the incredible 16,000-square-foot pool with a sand beach, hot tub, water slide and more
- Dining: Try Caribbean-inspired cuisine at Amatista Cookhouse or stop by the Strong Water Tavern for rare vintage rums and tapas-style dining options
- Benefits: Early park admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter & Volcano Bay, free transportation & Universal Volcano Bay, located steps away from Volcano Bay, and more
Learn more about Loews Sapphire Falls Resort
Prime Value Hotels – $$
Universal’s Aventura Hotel
It’s your chill zone, your party place, your hangout, your refuge. And the best part, it’s perfectly priced.
- Feature: Enjoy a drink with a view high in the sky at Bar 17 Bistro
- Dining: Have a chef cook up a custom wok dish right in front of you at the Urban Pantry
- Benefits: Early park admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter & Universal Volcano Bay, free transportation, steps away from Volcano Bay, and more
Learn more about Universal’s Aventura Hotel
Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort
Enjoy vibrant, retro-style with rooms and suites brilliantly designed for fun and affordability.
- Experience: Take on a friend at Galaxy Bowl and when you’re finished, head over to the Ace The Arcade for an overtime match of timeless arcade favorites
- Feature: Have a relaxing day floating down Cabana Bay’s lazy river while you soak up that warm Florida sunshine
- Dining: Try a wide variety of food stations including deli items, pizzas, burgers, salads and desserts at the Bayliner Diner
- Benefits: Early park admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter & Universal Volcano Bay, free transportation, steps away from Volcano Bay, and more
Learn more about Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort
Value Hotel – $
Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites
Step into the extra affordable surf lifestyle with beach-themed standard rooms, spacious two-bedroom suites, and more.
- Experience: Kick back in the surfboard-shaped pool and soak in the sunshine
- Feature: Check out the spacious, two-bedroom suites that sleep up to six
- Dining: Stop by the food court for a wide variety of great food options or have a fresh-made pizza pie delivered directly to your room
- Benefits: Early park admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter & Universal Volcano Bay, free transportation and more
Learn More about Surfside Inn and Suites
Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites
Inspired by sand, sea and breathtaking sunsets, this extra affordable retreat features two-bedroom suites, two large pools and more.
- Experience: Soak in the sunshine at one of the two large pools with a beautiful sandy beach – how cool
- Feature: Check out the spacious, two-bedroom suites that sleep up to six
- Dining: Stop by the food court for a wide variety of flavorful food for every palate. On the go? No problem. There are plenty of grab-and-go options available
- Benefits: Early park admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter & Universal Volcano Bay, free transportation and more
Learn More about Dockside Inn and Suites
THINGS TO KNOW
You might know about all the amazing experiences you’d like to try at Universal Orlando, but now let’s take a look at few ways you can get the most out of your first time trip with a few local planning tips.
Express Pass – Get to the Fun Faster
Want to get the most out of your visit? Check out a few of the Express Pass options available so you can skip the regular lines at most of your favorite rides and attractions to get the most out of your day at the parks.
Did you know you the Express Pass is included FREE when you stay at a Universal Premier category hotel? Check out the details here.
Plan Your Entire Trip with Ease Using the Official Universal Mobile App
Imagine having your own travel guide to give you every bit of important information you need to get the most out of your first-time visit. That is what the official Universal Orlando Resort App provides!
What can the Universal Orlando Resort mobile app do?
- The app can become your Virtual Wallet
- You can find everything you need including ride wait times, showtimes, dining venue hours and more
- Create your own personal “to-do” list of favorites
- Always be in the know with the latest park updates
- Order meals on the go with ease
- What else can you do with the App? Find out here
WHAT TO BRING
Let’s dive into a few tips to help you decide what to bring during your first-time visit to the theme parks.
Backpacks and Shoulder Bags
Can you bring a bag or backpack to Universal Orlando Resort? Absolutely! A small, soft-sided bag is perfect for toting your essentials around while exploring the theme parks.
Potential Items To Add To Bag Include:
- Sunscreen
- Rain poncho or jacket
- Refillable water bottle
- Sunglasses
Check out the What To Pack For A Day At Universal Orlando Resort for more great tips on what to bring to the theme parks.
TAKING PHOTOS AT THE THEME PARKS
Can you bring a camera to Universal Orlando Resort? Of course! You are about to have some of the best times of your life and what better way to remember those moments than incredible photos to take home with you.
LOCAL TIP | Since it’s your first time visiting the theme parks, check out the My Universal Photos options, so you can focus on the fun while they focus on capturing your best moments.
WHAT TO WEAR
Florida is a tricky place when it comes to weather. Most of the time it’s warm and sunny, but there are those occasional days that cause us to break out our coats. Regardless, it’s good to be prepared.
- Check the Weather: Take a moment to check the weather forecast before heading to the theme parks
- Fashion or Comfort: Of course you want to look fashionable in all of the Instagram photos you are planning on taking, but keep in mind to be comfortable as your day may include lots of walking and standing in the heat
- Which Shoes to Wear: Try to wear a shoe that is breathable and comfortable
Check out the full list of Frequently Asked Questions on what to bring to the theme parks.
Did we miss anything? Tell us about some of your theme park first-timer tips in the comments below! And make sure to share your tips on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram with #ReadyForUniversal or ask for help with #AskUniversal.
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