Want a quick answer to some of the most frequently asked questions about Disney and Universal? These are my theme park quick start guides.

When you want to dive deeper into a topic, just tap the links on the slides, or check out the resource list below.

Theme park quick start guides

Harry Potter World Quick Guide

By Sue Winter

Disney World Quick Guide

By Sue Winter

Universal Orlando Resort Quick Guide

By Sue Winter

Universal Orlando vs Hollywood Quick Guide

By Sue Winter

Disneyland Avengers Campus Quick Guide

By Sue Winter

Paris Disneyland Quick Guide

By Sue Winter

Disney Genie Fast Facts

By Sue Winter

Disney World Christmas Quick Guide

By Sue Winter

View all stories

Direct links to each quick start guide

• Universal Orlando vs Universal Hollywood quick guide
• Wizarding World of Harry Potter quick start guide
• Disney World quick start guide
• Universal Orlando quick start guide
• Avengers Campus quick start guide
• Disney Genie quick start guide
• Christmas at Disney World quick start guide
• Disneyland Paris quick start guide

Looking for another fun destination? Here’s my Bora Bora quick start guide.

Go Informed theme park tips

With a little planning and strategy, you can have a fantastic theme park vacation. Check out these resources to get started:

• 33 things to know before you visit Universal Orlando
• 55 things to know before you visit Disney World
• Universal Orlando complete hotel guide
• Disney World complete hotel guide
• Disneyland walking distances and training tips
• Universal Orlando vs Universal Hollywood
• How to do Disneyland Paris in one day

Exclusive bonus tips in your inbox

Want to save money, avoid hassles, and have more fun on your theme park vacation? Sign up now to get two bonus mini-posts every month, exclusive to the Go Informed mailing list!

Click here to join now.

This post contains affiliate links.

The post Go Informed Theme Park Quick Start Guides appeared first on Go Informed.

These are the show notes for Go Informed Podcast episode 73. Click below to hear the show now, or search for Go Informed: Build A Better Vacation on your favorite podcast app!

Comparing Universal Orlando to Universal Studios Hollywood

There are many factors to consider when comparing the Orlando and Hollywood Universal theme parks. Here we’ll look at how location, size, diversity of attractions, accommodations, and pricing stack up between the two destinations.

There are a lot of details here, so check out this table of contents if you want to skip to your top considerations.

A super-quick comparison of Universal Orlando vs Hollywood

Here’s a 60-ish-second guide to how Universal Orlando and Universal Hollywood stack up against each other

Location and size of Universal Orlando compared to Universal Hollywood

Let’s first start with the most obvious difference between Universal Orlando and Universal Hollywood: location. Location affects more than just how far you’ll travel to get to the park. It also includes the weather, the total size of the resort, and what else there is to do nearby.

Location

Universal Orlando is located about 20 miles west of Orlando’s airport (MCO). Universal Studios Hollywood is about 25 miles from LAX, but only 7 miles from Burbank airport (BUR).

Both Orlando and LA have plenty of other things to do and see besides the Universal theme parks. And visitors to these cities might consider Universal just a small part of a bigger vacation. However, Universal Orlando especially could be an entire destination on its own, as you’ll see below.

Weather

One of the big differences between Orlando and Southern California is the weather. Where LA spends most of the year moderately warm and dry, Central Florida weather is often exceedingly hot and humid.

Always take a look at the projected weather for your travel dates and prepare accordingly. You should have much less impact in the SoCal climate than in Orlando. If Florida is your destination, be sure to read my top weather tips and pack the right gear.

Proximity to a Disney park

Combining Disney with Universal is a natural fit for a theme park vacation. If you want to do both, know that it’s a LOT easier in Orlando.

Universal Orlando is not far from Disney World

Universal Orlando is only about 10 miles from Disney World. This is almost always less than a 30 minute drive, which makes it easy to add Disney World to your Universal Orlando vacation.

It’s a long car ride from Universal Studios Hollywood to Disneyland

In California, the Disney and Universal parks are not close to each other. Distance is about 35 miles, which in LA traffic will easily add up to much more than an hour drive. Park opening time, and often Universal Hollywood’s park closing time, will put you directly in LA rush hour traffic.

If you plan to combine Disneyland and Universal Studios on your LA visit, seriously consider splitting your stay. Spend the night close to whichever park you want to visit in the morning.

Quick look at Avengers Campus

If you’re heading to Disneyland you will definitely want to spend some time at Avengers Campus. Here’s a quick look.

Size

When it comes to size, Universal Orlando Resort dwarfs Universal Studios Hollywood.

Universal Orlando has two theme parks, a water park, eight Universal-owned hotels, and a large shopping and entertainment district. Universal has also begun construction on an enormous third theme park in Orlando, adjacent to the current resort.

Universal Studios Hollywood has one theme park, a working film studio, no Universal-owned hotels, and a large shopping and entertainment district.

Universal Orlando’s attractions vs Universal Studios Hollywood

Even though Universal Orlando is much bigger than Universal Hollywood, both have lots of world-class attractions. And each coast has unique offerings not found anywhere else.

Universal Orlando has two theme parks, plus a water park

The Universal Orlando parks are located right next to each other and are easy to hop between. A quick shuttle away is the extraordinary Volcano Bay water park.

In 2025, an entirely new third park will open at Universal Orlando. Dubbed Epic Universe, this addition will feature five new immersive lands and three new hotels. All indications is that it will be an incredible destination. Here’s a quick overview of what’s coming to Epic Universe at Universal Orlando.

Islands of Adventure

Islands of Adventure features themed lands ranging from Suess Landing to Jurassic Park to the Wizarding World’s Hogsmeade Village. If you like roller coasters, this is your park. Three major coasters – the Hulk, Velocicoaster, and Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure – are all at Islands of Adventure.

Here’s my audio tour of Islands of Adventure.

Universal Studios Florida

Like its Hollywood counterpart, Universal Studios Florida is themed after movies and TV. However there is no working studio here so therefore no studio tour. Notable attractions include the Mummy roller coaster, Race Through New York with Jimmy Fallon, Transformers, and the Wizarding World’s Diagon Alley.

Listen to my Universal Studios Florida audio tour here.

Volcano Bay

Volcano Bay is a highly-themed water park which Universal bills as their third Orlando theme park. A giant volcano houses three water slides and a water roller coaster, plus there are numerous raft rides, a lazy river, and a sandy beach for relaxing.

Here’s a 60-second look at Universal Orlando

Universal Orlando is so big that there are a bunch of cool things you could easily overlook. Check out this issue of the Go Informed newsletter to find out about 9 of my favorite Universal Orlando hidden gems. And don’t forget to subscribe!

Universal Studios Hollywood is a single theme park

Universal Studios in Hollywood is one park that combines some of the best of the Orlando resort with a few unique attractions. It was the first of the Universal theme parks and was originally founded purely as a tour of the Universal movie and TV studios.

Attractions you’ll find at Universal Studios Hollywood but not at Universal Orlando

The Universal Studio Tour

Of all the world’s theme parks, Universal Studios Hollywood is the only one with a working film studio tour. You’ll ride a tram behind-the-scenes through famous movie and TV sets, learning about how and where many iconic scenes were staged. The backlot tour runs continuously throughout the day and takes about an hour.

Along with the informative tour, the trams take a few wild turns that Orlando’s Studio park has made into stand-alone attractions. Both the Fast and Furious and Kong attractions are woven right into the tram tour. These experiences exist in Orlando, but as their own rides.

The tour is a must-see for most visitors to the Hollywood park. It’s a great way to get off your feet for an hour and you never know if you’ll see an actual movie star.

Super Nintendo World

The world of Mario and his pals has come to life at Universal Studios Hollywood. This new land includes the super-headliner Mario Kart Bowser’s Challenge attraction, dining, shopping, and character interactions.

The land itself is also an immersive interactive game. Get yourself a power-up band to complete challenges and capture coins.

Super Nintendo World is anticipated to be a big hit, which means you should expect higher-than-usual crowds at Universal Studios Hollywood in 2023. Be sure to use my rope drop tips, know how to ride single, and consider Universal Express if you’ll be visiting in 2023.

Jurassic World – the Ride

Jurassic World is like a super-charged version of Splash Mountain. Guests ride boats through a jungle full of huge dinosaurs, culminating in a spectacular roller-coaster-style drop. Bring a poncho: you WILL get wet.

Orlando’s Islands of Adventure also has a Jurassic park water ride, but California’s is way more intense and at least as wet.

More rides you’ll find in California but not in Florida

Other attractions you can currently experience at Universal Studios Hollywood but not at Universal Orlando are Secret Life of Pets and the WaterWorld stunt show. Universal Studios Hollywood also has different walk-around characters than in Orlando.

Comparing the Wizarding World in Orlando vs Hollywood

One of the biggest differences between Universal Hollywood and Universal Orlando is the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. If you want to visit Diagon Alley you can only see it in Orlando. Both locations have Hogsmeade Village and Hogwarts Castle.

Did you know you can pre-purchase a photo package for Universal Orlando or Universal Studios Hollywood? Probably not, because Universal doesn’t make this easy to find. Never fear, here’s a quick look at how it works, where to get current prices, and how to buy the Universal Orlando photo package and the Universal Studios Hollywood photo package.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Hollywood

Hogsmeade Village at Universal Studios Hollywood is almost exactly the same as at Islands of Adventure in Orlando, often with lighter crowds.

Here’s what’s in the Wizarding World at Universal Hollywood:

• Hogsmeade Village
• Hogwarts Castle – including the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride
• Flight of the Hippogriff family coaster
• The Three Broomsticks and Hogs Head pub
• Shopping at Ollivander’s, Honeydukes, Zonkos, and more

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando

Universal Orlando’s Wizarding World is split between both the Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios parks. Hogsmeade Village is in Islands of Adventure, while Diagon Alley is in Universal Studios. The Hogsmeade Express runs between the parks.

Because of the layout, you’ll need a two-park ticket to see the entire Orlando Wizarding World. Be sure to read my post about Universal Orlando ticket options before you buy your park admission.

Here’s what’s in the Wizarding World at Universal Orlando:

• Hogsmeade Village – Islands of Adventure
  • Hogwarts Castle – including the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride
  • Flight of the Hippogriff family coaster
  • Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure roller coaster
  • The Three Broomsticks and Hogs Head pub
  • Shopping at Ollivander’s, Honeydukes, and more
  • Hogsmeade station – the Hogwarts Express runs between the parks
• Diagon Alley – Universal Studios
  • Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
  • Knockturn Alley
  • The Knight Bus
  • 12 Grimmauld Place
  • The Leaky Cauldron
  • Florean Fortescue’s Ice Cream Parlour
  • Shopping at Madam Malkins’, Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes, Borgin and Burkes, and more
  • King’s Cross station – the Hogwarts Express runs between the parks

Note that in 2025, a third addition to Orlando’s Wizarding World opens at the Epic Universe park. Learn more here.

Here’s a quick look at Universal Orlando’s Wizarding World

Listen to my audio tour of Universal Orlando’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter here

Staying on-site at Universal Orlando compared to Universal Studios Hollywood

If you want to stay close to the park gates, Universal Orlando offers way more options compared to Universal Hollywood.

Universal Orlando hotels

The Orlando resort has eight Universal-owned hotels all offering guest perks such as easy transportation and early park admission. Several of these hotels are within a quick walk to the park gates and even offer free Express Pass to guests.

Here is my complete guide to the Universal Orlando hotels.

Universal Studios Hollywood hotels

Universal Studios Hollywood has several hotels within about a mile of the gate, but none are operated by Universal and there are rarely special guest perks like early admission. Closest to the main gate is the Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City.

Remember LA’s notorious traffic when you decide where to stay for your visit to Universal Studios. As mentioned above, Disneyland is a very long drive from Hollywood. Consider choosing a nearby hotel for the time you’ll be visiting Universal.

Can you do it in one day?

A lot of visitors are adding Universal to a larger vacation. How much of it you can see in one day is much different in Orlando than in California.

Universal Orlando is really a multi-day destination

Universal Orlando in one day

Yes, you can see a lot of Universal Orlando in one day. If this is your aim, you’ll need a solid plan of the top things you want to do, and you’ll need to be there from park opening to closing. Express Pass can also be your best friend if you only want to spend one day at Universal Orlando.

Here are a few resources to help you navigate Universal Orlando in a day:

• Single rider tips
• How to rope drop
• All about Universal Orlando Express Pass
• How to add Universal Orlando to your Disney World vacation
• The Unofficial Guide to Universal Orlando

Two or three days is best at Universal Orlando

Because Universal Orlando is so big (see above), most guests have a much better experience by spending at least a night on-site and touring for two or three days. When you’ve got several days to see everything, it allows for a slower pace and the chance to loop back for a second ride.

Universal also often offers discounts on multi-day tickets, such as buy 2 days get 2 free, which can make adding a day or two to your trip a lot more affordable. Be sure to check out these resources when you start planning your multi-day trip to Universal Orlando:

• 33 things to know before you visit Universal Orlando
• How to choose your Universal Orlando park tickets
• Universal Orlando hotel guide
• Universal Orlando first-timer tips
• The Unofficial Guide to Universal Orlando

You can do Universal Studios Hollywood in a day

Even with the hour-long studio tour, you can see most of Universal Studios Hollywood in just one day – if you visit on a relatively low-crowd day. Two days is more than enough time to see everything and even go back to some favorites.

Busiest days will be weekends and school holidays, so if you’ll be visiting then you’ll want to consider a second day, or utilize tactics like rope drop, single rider, and Express Pass.

Single rider is a good way to skip the regular lines, and several of the headliner attractions at Universal Studios Hollywood have this option. This includes Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, the Mummy, and Jurassic World.

Get a jump-start on your vacation research with my 60-second theme park quick start guides. Find them all here.

Comparing costs and ticket options between the Orlando and Hollywood Universal parks

Cost is of course a major factor in determining whether to include a Universal park in your vacation. Comparing Universal Orlando vs. Universal Hollywood ticket costs involves a few factors.

Multi-day tickets

How many days you want to visit will determine a lot of the cost difference between Universal Orlando and Universal Hollywood. While you may be satisfied just spending one day at Universal Studios Hollywood, a multi-day ticket often makes more sense for Universal Orlando.

If you’ll be staying on-site at Universal Orlando, I highly recommend considering an annual pass, even if you’re from out-of-state and don’t have a return visit planned. This is because Univeral Orlando’s annual passholder hotel savings often add up to much more than the added cost for the pass. Here’s a quick example of how it works.

Check for special ticket deals

Obviously, more days means more cost. But if you want to compare apples to apples, be sure to check the current ticket prices for Universal Orlando and Universal Hollywood before you make an assumption. Universal Orlando almost always has discounts on multi-day tickets.

Here is my complete guide to Universal Orlando park tickets

Spending more than one day at Universal Hollywood? Consider an annual pass

At Universal Studios Hollywood you won’t find a multi-day ticket option. Only single-day or annual passes. So if you plan to visit for two days, you’ll have to buy two one-day tickets. Or you might find it’s actually cheaper at Universal Hollywood to buy an annual pass! That’s because annual passes here are priced at around the cost of two one-day tickets.

Book in a hotel package and save on your total trip

If you’re planning to stay in one of Universal Orlando’s on-site hotels, or in one of the Universal Hollywood partner hotels, consider booking your room and park tickets together in a package. You can book a package through the Universal website or through a travel agent.

Universal’s hotel packages always offer whatever special ticket deal is available, so you won’t miss out on this by bundling everything together. There is often an additional discount built into the package price.

Another advantage to booking in a package is that you don’t have to pay for it all up front. You’ll just pay a deposit at booking, then the remainder 45 days prior to your trip. Compare this to purchasing your park tickets up front to lock in a deal, and a package may make more sense for you.

Comparing Universal Express Pass in Orlando vs Hollywood

Express Pass is Universal’s system that allows guests to skip the regular line. It’s an add-on that is like a VIP pass for most of the attractions both at Universal Orlando and Universal Hollywood. If you hate standing in line or just want to move through the park extra-efficiently, consider adding Express Pass to your park admission.

There are a few nuances to Express Pass which I cover in this post and podcast episode. The Express line works the same in both Orlando and Hollywood, with the main difference being how you acquire an Express Pass.

In Orlando, Universal Express is a separate ticket – and you can get it for free

At Universal Orlando, Express Pass is an add-on to your park admission. You’ll choose this option when selecting your tickets, along with how many days and parks to include.

Here’s my guide to how Universal Orlando park tickets are structured.

One crucial difference between Express Pass at Universal Orlando vs. Universal Hollywood is the opportunity for free Unlimited Express Pass. On-site guests at Orlando’s Hard Rock Hotel, Royal Pacific Resort, and Portofino Bay hotels automatically receive Unlimited Express Pass as part of their stay. There is no need to purchase this, your room key is your pass.

The free Express Pass perk in Orlando offers a huge touring advantage for these hotel guests, and should really be considered – especially if your trip is in the summer or another busy season.

Here’s more insight about the free Express Pass benefit at Universal Orlando’s hotels.

In Hollywood, Universal Express is its own one-day ticket

For Universal Studios Hollywood, the one-day park ticket with Express is called a “Universal Express” ticket. This admission includes once-per-attraction access to the Express line for the day. If you want Unlimited Express, which gives unlimited access to the Express line, you can choose to upgrade your park ticket after you add the Universal Express ticket to your cart.

Unlike Orlando, there are no free Express Passes offered for hotel guests. If you’re not sure if you want Express Pass, there is also the opportunity to upgrade once you get into the park. But beware that the cost will likely be higher than purchasing in advance online, and Express Pass can sell out.

More tips for your Universal theme park vacation

Here on GoInformed.net there are lots more tips to help you have a great vacation. Check out these other posts:

• 33 Things to Know Before You Visit Universal Orlando
• How to get your family up early for a day at the parks
• Getting ready to walk at the parks
• Universal Orlando hotel guide
• How to add Universal Orlando to your Disney World vacation

Are you a Marvel fan? Learn all about Disneyland’s Avengers Campus here.

The Go Informed Podcast

Get your theme park advice on the go! Listen and learn more on the Go Informed: Build a Better Vacation podcast. Catch my episode about Universal Orlando vs. Universal Hollywood on your favorite podcast app, including:

• Apple podcasts
• Google podcasts
• Spotify

Bonus content direct to your inbox

Want to save money, avoid hassles, and have more fun on your theme park vacation? Sign up now to get two bonus mini-posts every month, exclusive to the Go Informed mailing list!

Click here to join the list.

Add this to your bucket list: Disneyland Paris

This post contains affiliate links.

The post Universal Orlando vs. Universal Hollywood appeared first on Go Informed.

Meet Ric, a Disney World superfan who visits multiple times a year and even has his own Disney fan podcast. But he’s never been to Universal Orlando. On this episode of the Go Informed Podcast, we dive into all the Universal Orlando first-timer advice Ric should know for his long-overdue adventure.

These are the show notes for Go Informed Podcast episodes 69 and 70. Click below to hear the show now, or search for Go Informed: Build A Better Vacation on your favorite podcast app!

Go Informed Podcast episode 69

Episode 69 is my discussion with Ric before his first trip to Universal Orlando. You’ll hear lots of frequent first-timer questions answered here.

Go Informed Podcast episode 70

Episode 70 is Ric’s post-vacation trip report. Catch his stories and advice from his trip here.

Universal Orlando first-timer Ric’s trip plans

Ric’s heading to Universal for a 5 day stay in early August 2021. He’s visiting with his wife, daughters age 19 and 11, and son age 9.

As a huge Harry Potter fan, this visit to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is going to be the trip of a lifetime. With 5-day park tickets, Ric’s family should have tons of time to explore all of the Wizarding World along with everything else at Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure.

Staying on-site at Royal Pacific Resort

Ric’s family will be staying on-site at Universal Orlando’s Royal Pacific Resort. Royal Pacific guests receive free unlimited Universal Express Pass, plus an hour early park admission every morning. By choosing an on-site Express Pass hotel, theme park touring will be way more relaxed for the entire group.

Besides the Express Pass and early admission perks, Royal Pacific is one of the closest hotels to the Universal theme parks. Ric’s family can easily walk to the park gates in about 15 minutes, or take a free water taxi or paid pedicab.

How far apart is everything at Universal Orlando? Here are some common walking distances with maps.

My advice is to use that early park admission as many days as Ric’s family can manage it. Early admission is the perfect time to experience the Wizarding World before summer crowds roll in. It’s also the best time to encounter Olivander in his wand shop, and to ride the Hagrid’s Magicial Creatures Motorbike Adventure coaster, since these are among the few attractions with no Express Pass entry.

Early admission at Universal Orlando is different than at Disney World

For Disney World fans, Universal’s early admission is a bit different. Universal opens an hour early for on-site hotel guests, some annual passholders, and selected outside visitors. Even though one or both of the theme parks are open early, only a limited part of the parks will actually be operating during this hour. In general, this is the Wizarding World of Harry Potter attractions along with one or two other rides.

Be sure to consult Universal Orlando’s early park admission calendar to find out what attractions will be open early during your visit. If you notice both the Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios parks opening early, that’s an indication that Universal’s expecting a busy day – even more reason to take advantage of your head-start.

Click here for a great hack you can use if you’ve got early admission at Universal Orlando, from my Go Informed newsletter.

Universal Express Pass advice for Disney fans

Ric and I discussed Express Pass compared to Disney’s FastPass system. Here are a few things to keep in mind about Express Pass:

• Like Disney’s FastPass, Express Pass allows guests to skip the regular line and board an attraction within minutes.
• Unlike Disney’s FastPass, Express Pass is not necessarily free. Universal sells Express as an add-on to park admission. However guests staying at certain on-site hotels receive Unlimited Express Passes for free during their stay.
• Guests can use Express Pass throughout the day whenever it’s convenient. There are no assigned times to use an Express Pass.
• Almost every attraction at Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida has an Express Pass entrance. Notable exceptions are the Velocicoaster and the Hagrid’s Magical Motorbike Adventure coaster.
• Unlimited Express Pass, which hotel guests like Ric get for free, means you can ride any attraction through the Express Pass entrance as many times as you wish.
• The Volcano Bay water park also has Express Pass, which is purchased separately for that park.

Hey guys, since I first wrote this post Disney has re-vamped their skip-the-line system. Click here for a quick overview of how it works now.

Wizarding World advice for a first-timer

One of my top tips for Ric is to take it slow and really enjoy the immersive environment of the Wizarding World. Since he has five days in the parks, and Universal Express Pass, there is time to see and do pretty much everything.

A visit to Olivander’s Wand Shop will be top of the list on the family’s itinerary. I recommend picking up at least a couple of interactive wands to share. Experiencing the magic of casting spells in Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade is a huge part of the Wizarding World atmosphere.

Since the Olivander’s Wand experience does not have Express Pass, this is a good thing to do first thing in the morning during Universal’s Early Admission. There is also no Express queue for Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure so this is another attraction best tackled first-thing during early admission.

If you want to ride the Hogwarts Express, which runs between the two parks, you’ll need a park-to-park ticket. Learn all about Universal Orlando’s tickets here.

Be sure to listen to the podcast audio from this episode, and also my audio tour of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter for lots more advice about a first visit to this magical land.

Universal Orlando first-timer FAQ’s

Here are some of Ric’s questions, that are commonly asked by Universal Orlando first-timers.

Is early admission worth it?

Yes, early admission is a great way to beat the crowds at Universal Orlando. I advise taking advantage of this extra hour every morning. Guests at any of the Universal Orlando on-site hotels receive early admission throughout their stay.

Here’s a quick explanation of why staying on-site at Universal Orlando can make your day so much easier, from my Go Informed theme park tips newsletter.

What should we do first during early admission?

Go Informed Podcast episodes 23 and 26 are all about how to make the most of early admission at Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. For advice specifically for early entry to Hagrid’s Magical Motorbike Adventure, check out episode 46.

Should we go to the parks on arrival day?

Especially for guests staying at one of Universal’s Premier resorts, it’s easy to visit the theme parks for just a few hours at the end of the day. In fact, on Sundays through Thursdays, after 4:00pm offers some of the lowest crowd levels of the day.

Can you dine in CityWalk & easily go back to the parks?

Yes, CityWalk is literally right outside the entrances to the two Universal Orlando theme parks. Click here to view maps and get more Universal Orlando walking distances.

Are the interactive wands worth it?

Oh yes, the interactive wands are pretty amazing. You get to do your own magic and add to the special atmosphere in Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade Village. Plan to visit Olivander’s and buy at least one for your group.

What else is there to do besides Harry Potter?

The Universal Orlando theme parks include lands dedicated to Marvel, Jurassic Park, the Simpsons, Dr. Seuss, and many of your favorite movies and TV shows. There is definitely something for everyone.

Want to get the lay of the land? Check out my audio tours of Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. They are Go Informed Podcast episodes three and four.

Should we worry about motion sickness on the Universal rides?

Universal is known for it’s wide use of screens in many attractions. Especially on 4-D movie attractions like Minion Mayhem and Race Through New York, a lot of guests have issues with motion sickness.

If you have a sensitive member in your group, you can use Universal’s rider swap system to give the ride a test-run. Here’s how to do it.

Do we lose much experience by using the Express Pass queue?

Because you are skipping the regular line, riders using Express Pass may miss some of the pre-show queue experience. The regular queues for Skull Island: Reign of Kong and the Mummy coaster probably have the most detail you will miss. However, you will also be missing many minutes of waiting in line.

For the Harry Potter attractions inside Gringotts Bank and Hogwarts Castle, the Express Pass line goes through all the same detailed rooms as the normal line. The only thing you’ll miss here is the long, snaking queues outside the buildings.

What should we know about water rides?

Water rides at Universal Orlando are no joke. Be ready to get really wet. The worst (or best, depending on how you look at it) are Popeye and Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges and Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls. Not only are both of these attractions on/in water, there are water cannons to the side that other guests can use to drench riders passing by.

The Jurassic Park River Adventure can also be very wet. Although it looks like a Jungle Cruise type boat ride, the ending is more like Splash Mountain on steroids. Especially if you sit up front, be ready for wet shoes and probably much more.

Quick tips for a Universal Orlando first-timer

• When you first arrive at Universal Orlando, buy a lanyard for everyone in your group. This is a great way to keep your park ticket and Express Pass safe and accessible.
• For the attractions with a high degree of motion, especially the roller coasters, Universal requires all loose items to be stored in a locker. Free lockers are provided near the entrance to these attractions and anything you can’t fit in your pockets must be stashed away in a locker.
• The following attractions require EVERYTHING to be in a locker, not just in your pockets. You will pass through a metal detector to be sure there is nothing on your person.
  • Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
  • The Incredible Hulk Coaster
  • Jurassic World Velocicoaster
• There is a secret song list for the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit. Here’s how to hack it.
• Go Informed Podcast episode 7 is all about what to expect on your first day in the Universal Orlando parks.

Universal Orlando is so big that there are a bunch of cool things you could easily overlook. Check out this issue of the Go Informed newsletter to find out about 9 of my favorite Universal Orlando hidden gems. And don’t forget to subscribe!

Ric’s top Universal Orlando first-timer advice

I talked to Ric after his trip and these are the top tips he has for other first-time Universal Orlando visitors.

Use the hotel water taxi in the morning

The security line might look long for the early water taxi but it moves much faster than at the main entrance to CityWalk. Once you’re on the boat, you don’t have to go through any more security to get into the parks.

Express Pass is awesome

Because they had unlimited Express Passes, Ric’s family could tour the parks however they wished. This freedom was a huge perk, especially with a group of five.

Stay in an Express Pass hotel

By staying in the Royal Pacific Resort, Ric’s entire family got free Unlimited Express Passes for their entire vacation. Even accounting for the higher room rate, Ric figures he saved about $2000 over choosing a non-Express hotel and purchasing the passes separately.

Get a park-to-park ticket

Universal’s park-to-park ticket allows you to go between both parks on the same day. Ric’s family loved this option.”We could go back and forth without a second thought”.

Check out Ric’s Monorail Tales Podcast

Big thanks to Ric for sharing his trip plans with us! Be sure to check out the Monorail Tales Podcast, which Ric hosts with a delightful gang of Disney enthusiasts. You can even catch the episode featuring me!

Find the show on your favorite podcast app or at MonorailTales.com.

Follow Ric on Instagram and Facebook

Here’s Ric’s social media links:

• Monorail Tales Facebook page
• Monorail Tales Facebook group
• On Instagram: @MonorailTales and @MagicIntheHills

60-second quick guide to Universal Orlando

More tips for your first trip to Universal Orlando

Here on GoInformed.net and on the Go Informed Podcast, you’ll find lots of tips to help you have a fantastic first trip to Universal Orlando. Check out these top posts:

• 33 things to know before you visit Universal Orlando
• How Universal Orlando compares to Universal Hollywood
• Universal Orlando walking distances, maps, and training tips
• How to add Universal Orlando to your Disney World vacation
• Complete guide to the Universal Orlando hotels

Bonus tips straight to your inbox

Join the Go Informed mailing list for twice-monthly topical tips delivered straight to you. Click here to sign up.

The post Universal Orlando First-Timer Advice for a Disney World Wizard appeared first on Go Informed.

As one of the biggest movie franchises in the world, Marvel is a natural for theme park attractions. In the USA, guests can experience Marvel attractions and meet characters in both Universal and Disney theme parks. Here’s where you can find Marvel and what to expect at each location.

These are the show notes for Go Informed Podcast episode 68. Click below to listen, or find the show on your favorite podcast player.

In the USA, Marvel attractions can be found at Universal Orlando, Disney World, and Disneyland

Good news for Marvel fans – whether you visit Disneyland, Disney World, or Universal Orlando you can rub shoulders with your favorite superheroes. Yes, Disney owns the blockbuster franchise today, but due to a pre-existing contract with Universal Orlando, there is an entire Marvel land located in the Islands of Adventure theme park.

Technically, Universal is supposed to have the theme park rights to Marvel in any park east of the Mississippi. However, Disney has found a loophole and is introducing selected characters at their Epcot park. So now Orlando visitors can experience unique Marvel attractions at both Universal and Disney.

On the west coast, Disney has opened a Marvel-themed land at Disneyland’s California Adventure. Dubbed the Avengers’ Campus, this land is an immersive visit into the MCU.

Why are all the parks working hard to bring Marvel to life? In our podcast chat, Joey shared some stats that show Marvel is by-far the highest grossing movie franchise of all-time.

Marvel at Universal Orlando

Marvel Superhero Island is Universal Orlando’s Marvel-themed land. It’s located in the Islands of Adventure theme park and feels like a journey into a Marvel comic book. Characters interact with visitors like action-figures come to life, rather than lookalikes from the movies. There are three major attractions in Marvel Superhero Island.

Marvel Attractions at Universal Orlando

• Incredible Hulk Roller Coaster
• The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man
• Doctor Doom’s Fearfall

Listen to my audio tour of the Islands of Adventure theme park here.

Marvel at Disney World

Thanks to a complicated loophole, Disney is also able to offer Marvel attractions in Orlando. The big Marvel-themed ride at Disney World is Epcot’s Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. This highly-themed indoor roller coaster opened in 2022 and is by far the most popular attraction in the park.

Want an at-a-glance look at Disney World? Check out my 75-second quick guide right here.

Marvel at Disneyland

Avengers Campus

Located in California Adventure, Avengers’ Campus is Disneyland’s Marvel complex. Immersive theming includes a Headquarters building topped by a full-size Quinjet, an Ancient Sanctum featuring encounters with Doctor Strange, and two major attractions. Movie lookalikes interact with guests and perform stunts throughout the day.

Even the dining options are fully themed. At Pym’s Test Kitchen, guests can enjoy huge chicken sandwiches and giant pretzels.

Marvel Attractions at Disneyland

There are two major attractions at California Adventure’s Avengers Campus:

• Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout
• Web Slingers: A Spider-Man Adventure

Disneyland Avengers Campus Quick Guide

Go Informed Podcast episode 75 is all about Avengers Campus. Click here to read the related show notes.

More theme park tips from Go Informed

Here on GoInformed.net you’ll find lots of info to help you have a great vacation in the Disney and Universal parks. Be sure to check out these posts:

• Universal Orlando vs Universal Hollywood
• 33 Things to know before you visit Universal Orlando
• 55 Things to know before you visit Disney World
• Park maps, walking distances, and how to train for your theme park vacation
• How to add Universal to your Disney World vacation

Bonus tips delivered straight to your inbox

Be sure to join the mailing list so you’ll get my twice-monthly bonus tipsheet, delivered straight to you. Click here to sign up for these exclusive tips, and to read what you’ve missed so far.

More episodes with The Disney Hack

• Christmastime at Disneyland trip report
• Comparing Disneyland and Disney World
• How to hack TripAdvisor One-Star Reviews

This post contains affiliate links.

The post Marvel Attractions in the Disney and Universal Parks appeared first on Go Informed.

Consider these 3 important tips before you book those flights.

Dreaming of your post-vax vacation? Me too!

Theme park travel is absolutely feasible in 2021, if you keep these points in mind.

Further discussion about theme park travel in 2021 on Go Informed Podcast episode 66

I dive further into this topic on the podcast, which you can find on your favorite podcast app, or click below to listen.

1: If you’ve never been there, 2021 is probably not the time to go

Not the advice you were expecting?

The fact is that if your heart is set on a first visit to Universal or Disney, all your dreams may not come true right now. That’s because a lot of the typical theme park experiences just aren’t happening in 2021.

Yes most of the attractions are operating, and you can still eat Mickey waffles to your heart’s content, and cast your spells in Diagon Alley. But parades and fireworks are discontinued. Mickey will wave from a distance but you won’t get a hug.

If you truly want the fully magical experience, it’s going to be best to plan your first visit for 2022 or beyond.

HOWEVER, if you’re OK with a modified theme park adventure, now is absolutely a great time to make those plans.

2: Theme park travel in 2021 is safer than you might think

Orlando’s theme parks have been operating safely since last July. Following and enforcing strict protocols for employees and guests, both Disney and Universal have welcomed millions of visitors this past year without incident. 

Many rules apply when visiting the parks, including mandatory face coverings even while riding attractions, temperature screenings at park gates, and enforced distancing in lines. This probably sounds familiar since you encounter some of the same guidelines even at your local grocery store.

The difference between a Disney park and the grocery store though is that at Disney these rules are constantly enforced. Guests are not just encouraged to wear a mask, it is a requirement that must be followed. Same goes for distancing and other safety measures currently in place.

As the California parks open this spring, expect the same level of compliance and enforcement.

3: In 2021 planning your travel in advance is essential

Look into your potential 2021 travel dates right now.

Summer 2021 is shaping up to be an explosion of travel, and guess what? The parks will still be operating at severely-limited capacity. Probably only 35% of the usual space will be available this summer at all the US theme parks.

The Disney parks require a reservation for entrance, and this is a good way to gauge whether your dates are a realistic time to travel. You can check out availability all the way through 2022 on the Disney World park reservation calendar here.

If you look right now (mid-April 2021) you’ll see that for the month of June 2021 pretty much every Disney World park is already booked. That means even if you have a ticket, if you don’t already have a reservation you’re not getting into that park.

The good news though is that July and August still look good. If you get your dates booked now you can grab those reservations. And since the park capacity is limited you can be sure that even though the reservations are full, the park won’t be wall-to-wall people. That’s exactly why they use this system.

No reservation system at the Universal parks

Universal does not have a reservation system, even though they are operating under the same capacity limits. This means you’ll need to use some other tactics to ensure your entrance into the parks. This includes getting there early and staying in an on-site hotel. (Hotel guests get priority for entrance even when the parks are closed due to capacity).

Want to know if the Universal parks are likely to reach max capacity? Check your dates on the Disney World reservation calendar. If all the Disney parks are full, then it’s likely the Universal parks will max out too.

Bonus tip 4: Consider travel for the end of summer or early fall 2021

Even though the early summer is shaping up to be pretty frenzied, I’d expect things to slow down a bit by mid-August. As kids go back to school – like REALLY back to school! – family travel will taper off.

The end of August and most of September normally see some of the lowest theme park crowds of the year. If you have the flexibility and the tolerance for crazy weather, this is actually an excellent time to travel to Orlando.

Resources to help you get there

Check out these posts and podcast episodes for more tips to help you plan your 2021 (or 2022) theme park vacation:

• 10 things to know about Universal Orlando during COVID-19
• Tips for Disney World during COVID-19
• 33 things to know before you visit Universal Orlando (updated for 2021)
• 55 things to know before you visit Disney World (updated for 2021)
• Disney World ticket buying guide

Plus tons of tips on the Go Informed Podcast in any of these places:

• Apple Podcasts
• Spotify
• Google Podcasts
• YouTube
• GoInformed.net

Get the Go Informed Newsletter

This post first went out to Go Informed email subscribers. Click here to join the list and get tips like these delivered straight to your inbox.

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The post 3 Surprising Things You Need to Know About Theme Park Travel in 2021 appeared first on Go Informed.

Understanding how Universal Orlando park tickets are priced can drive a lot of decisions about your vacation. Which tickets you choose will impact the number of days spent at Universal, whether you’ll want to stay on-site, and even which hotel you ultimately select. Therefore it’s very important to begin early on in the planning process to decide which park tickets you’ll need.

With a seemingly bewildering array of options, Universal Orlando’s ticket site can be quite overwhelming. In this post and podcast episode I break down each option step-by-step so you can get the right tickets at the best price. And make those delightful decisions about how much time to spend in the parks and where to stay.

These are the show notes for Go Informed Podcast episode 65. Click below to hear the show now, or search for Go Informed: Build A Better Vacation on your favorite podcast app!

Universal Orlando theme park ticket options

At Universal Orlando, you’ll need to decide more than just how many days you want to visit. Tickets are priced based on which parks you want to include and the dates you intend to use them. When you purchase the tickets, you’ll need to know the answers to these questions:

• How many days do you need admission? Click to jump to this step
• How many parks would you like to visit? How many on any given day? Click to jump to this step
• What is the first date you’ll spend in the parks? Click to jump to this step
• Do you want to add Universal Express to your tickets? Click to jump to this step
• Is an annual pass right for you? Click to jump to this step

Let’s take a closer look at each of these options, so you can be ready with the right decision when you buy your tickets.

Three theme parks

Universal will tell you they have three theme parks: Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay.

Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure are traditional theme parks, Volcano Bay is a highly themed modern water park. All are worth a visit and you will need to determine how much time you wish to spend in each.

Now’s the time to get familiar with what’s at Universal Orlando. Check out Go Informed Podcast episodes 3, 4, and 5 for audio park tours. Another great resource is the Unofficial Guide to Universal Orlando.

Here’s my 60-second guide to Universal Orlando

How many days park admission do you want?

Universal offers park tickets ranging from one to five days. Beyond that, you’ll be looking at an annual pass.

Unless you’ll be staying off-site and know for sure you only need a one-day ticket, there are a few things to consider here.

Look for ticket promotions

When deciding how many days to spend at Universal Orlando, park ticket pricing should be one of the first things you consider. This is because Universal often offers ticket promotions that include free days in the parks. This should be especially true in 2021.

For instance, under the promotion running at the time of this post, if you purchase your park tickets by April 27, 2021 you will receive a 4-day park ticket for less than the standard 2-day price. This is valid for admission up to December 17, 2021.

Even if you don’t intend to spend four days at Universal, this deal can make a multi-day visit much more feasible.

Where to find park ticket discounts on the Universal Orlando site

On Universal Orlando’s website, the promo tickets are usually listed right on the main park tickets page. The site will sometimes automatically give Florida resident pricing first – so be sure you unselect this if you notice anything that says “Florida resident”. (Unless of course you live in Florida and have ID to prove it).

One-day park tickets are always the most expensive option

On a per-day basis, tickets that are only good for one day’s admission are always priced the highest. Here’s an example:

• One-day one-park ticket for March 17, 2021 is $140
• A two-day one-park-per-day ticket starting March 17, 2021 is $249
• A three-day one-park-per-day ticket starting March 17, 2021 is $270

You can see in the example above that as more days are added to the ticket, the incremental increase goes down. Here the cost to go from two days in the parks to three is only an extra $21. Twenty-one dollars for an entire day (or even part of a day) in one of the Universal Orlando theme parks is a heck of a deal.

Note that these are not the promotional discount ticket. At the current promo offer, a four-day one-park-per-day ticket starting March 17, 2021 is actually $225!

Staying on-site? Get a park ticket to cover your arrival or departure day

Depending on your travel plans, you may be able to spend time in the Universal Orlando parks on the day you arrive or the day you depart. Especially if you stay on-site, this can be a great way to take that last extra ride on a favorite attraction or get a jump on your vacation.

Guests staying on-site get early admission to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter on every day of their stay. So if your flight leaves Orlando late in the day you can still have lots of park time even on that departure day. Same for your arrival day, if you arrive into Orlando early enough or split your stay from another destination.

As you can see from the example above, it doesn’t cost that much more to include that extra day or two in your park ticket. And if you can score a multi-day promo deal it’s almost a no-brainer to spend that extra few hours in a park.

Multi-day tickets don’t have to be used on consecutive days

If you purchase a multi-day park ticket from Universal, you will have a few extra days to use it up.

• 2-day ticket must be used within 5 days of start date
• 3-day ticket must be used within 6 days of start date
• 4-day ticket must be used within 7 days of start date
• 5-day ticket must be used within 8 days of start date

The post How to Choose Your Universal Orlando Park Tickets appeared first on Go Informed.

You don’t have to wait until December to experience Christmas at Universal Orlando. Once the Halloween Horror Nights die away, Universal’s parks transform into a living holiday movie. By the middle of November most every corner of the resort is flush with Christmas decor.

Christmas at Universal Orlando combines a delightful mixture of classic holiday traditions with fantasy worlds like Harry Potter and Dr Seuss. From the Macy’s parade to the Who’s in Whoville, a magical Christmas atmosphere flourishes throughout the resort.

These are the show notes for Go Informed Podcast episode 58. To get the whole story, be sure to listen to the audio below or find this episode on your favorite podcast player. Thanks so much for tuning in!

Christmas in the Universal Orlando theme parks

Universal Orlando is all about bringing our favorite movies, TV shows, and stories to life. At Christmas, the parks abound with references to those holiday specials and Christmas movies we’ve all seen a million times.

Featuring its own version of the Macy’s holiday parade as well as concerts and other special events, Universal has a lot to offer visitors during the Christmas season. And there is no extra ticket charge for the holiday events in the Universal Orlando parks.

Universal Studios Florida: Rockettes and Macy’s Balloons

At Christmastime, the New York neighborhood at Universal Studios transforms to a big-city holiday celebration. A giant Christmas tree (with a cheeky surprise inside) anchors the square in front of Macy’s department store.

Street performers, including a talented group of Rockettes, entertain here throughout the day.

Be sure to explore the tree. Hidden inside is Earl the Squirrel, who pops out now and then to surprise unsuspecting guests, “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” style.

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In the evenings, Universal Studios Orlando hosts its own version of the Macy’s Thanksgiving parade complete with gigantic balloons. Guests over age 18 can even volunteer as balloon handlers!

Some nights also include live Mannheim Steamroller Christmas concerts. All of this is included in regular park admission.

Earl is one of many hidden gems at Universal Orlando. Check out this issue of the Go Informed newsletter to learn 9 of my favorite Universal Orlando experiences you could easily overlook. And don’t forget to subscribe!

Islands of Adventure: Grinchmas

Suess Landing is the heart of the Christmas celebration at Islands of Adventure. During the holidays, all the Whos in Whoville celebrate Grinchmas.

It’s hard to walk through this lavishly decorated land without encountering a few Whoville citizens, or even the Grinch himself.

The Grinch also stars in his own Broadway-style show called “Grinchmas”. Playing multiple times every day, this original musical production features many of the same Whos you’ll meet on the street in Seuss Landing.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Hogwarts projection show and hot butterbeer

Located in both Islands of Adventure (Hogsmeade Village) and Universal Studios Florida (Diagon Alley), the Wizarding World of Harry Potter takes on a magical air of holiday cheer.

With its permanently snow-covered rooftops, Hogsmeade Village naturally feels more Christmas-y than Diagon Alley. Both wizarding communities are decked out with pine garland and other holiday decor.

A special “Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts” projection show runs on Hogwarts Castle after dark. (Not in 2020 sadly) It’s about a 10-minute long show that’s well worth stopping to watch.

Hot butterbeer is a special treat only available during the winter months at Universal Orlando. Be sure to try a cup. You can find hot butterbeer at the Hogs Head Pub and the Leaky Cauldron, and usually at a few of the street carts in Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade Village.

Christmas at the Universal Orlando hotels and CityWalk

Since many of the holiday events in the parks take place after dark, Christmas is a great time to stay on-site at Universal Orlando. Staying next to the parks means easy access to your hotel bed when the day is done.

Early park admission is another good reason to stay in a Universal Orlando hotel at the holidays. Christmas and New Years are the busiest days of the year, so having an extra hour in the parks before the crowds arrive is a huge advantage. Some hotels also provide free Unlimited Universal Express Pass to all guests.

Be sure to read my post about the Universal Orlando hotels here.

Additionally, the Universal hotels offer special holiday buffets and activities for Christmas and New Year’s Eve. And of course lots of festive decor.

Universal CityWalk hosts a holiday tree hunt, and a huge New Year’s Eve party for guests age 21 and over.

Tips for visiting Universal Orlando during the Christmas season

• Buy a two-park ticket so you can visit all of the Wizarding World in the same day. You’ll need a two-park ticket to ride the Hogwarts Express.
• Plan to be in the parks after dark. Evening events include the Macy’s parade, Hogwarts projection show, and Mannheim Steamroller concerts.
• Stay on-site for convenience and to get early admission and other perks to help you beat the crowd.
• Be sure to watch the weather forecast when you pack for your trip. December in Orlando can be 80 degrees or literally freezing at night.
• Know that the holidays at Universal Orlando are a big tradition for local Orlando residents. Expect weekends to be busy.
• Christmas 2021 will likely be more popular than ever since many of the traditional holiday events did not take place in 2020.
• Since Christmas spans from November to the end of the year, if you have the flexibility to visit during a low-crowd week you can see everything without the holiday crush. Best dates are usually the beginning of November and the beginning of December.
• Christmas and New Years Eves/Days are usually the busiest days of the year at Universal Orlando. If you choose to visit at that time, be sure to have a plan for dealing with the crowds.

More tips for your Universal Orlando vacation

• 33 things you should know before you visit Universal Orlando
• Universal Orlando hotel guide
• Universal Orlando compared to Universal Hollywood
• Adding Universal Orlando to your Disney World vacation
• 55 things you should know before you visit Disney World

75-second quick guide to Christmas at Disney World

Curious about what it’s like to visit Disney World at Christmas? Take a quick look right here.

What’s Christmas like at Disneyland? Check out this trip report and photo album.

The Go Informed Podcast

Theme park tips and info on the go! Be sure to look for the Go Informed: Build a Better Vacation podcast on your favorite podcast player.

From audio theme park tours to my best Disney World and Universal tips and hacks, you’ll find it all on the Go Informed podcast.

This post contains affiliate links.

The post Christmas Stories Come to Life at Universal Orlando appeared first on Go Informed.

From total luxury, to inspired theming, to practical family accommodations, the Universal Orlando hotels offer something for everyone. If you are planning more than one day at the Universal Orlando theme parks, I highly recommend staying on-site.

These are the show notes for Go Informed Podcast episode 56. Click below to listen to the show!

Universal Orlando is more than just a theme park destination. The 541 acre property contains eight hotels; a sprawling outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment district; and a lavishly themed water park. All surround the flagship Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure theme parks.

Universal Orlando Quick Guide

Here’s a 60-second look at everything Universal Orlando resort has to offer.

Why you should stay on-site at Universal Orlando

There are a number of reasons I recommend staying in one of the on-site Universal Orlando hotels. First is convenience. Starting your day already on the Universal property means less time getting to the parks. It also means you can easily return to your room or the hotel pool for a break during the day. Universal provides free transportation, and some of the hotels are only a short walk from the theme parks.

Secondly, regardless of which Universal Orlando hotel you stay in, you will have early admission to at least one of the theme parks every morning of your stay. Guests at the on-site hotels get an hour head-start in Diagon Alley or Hogsmeade Village (sometimes both), and this is a fantastic way to avoid long lines and experience the Wizarding World in relative calm.

Besides these perks, three of the hotels provide free Unlimited Express Passes to all guests. This is a huge benefit that can really make touring on a busy day a lot easier.

Before you select your hotel, be sure to find out what park ticket promotions are happening during your visit. Universal often offers free days or other discounts that may influence your decision about how long and where you’ll want to stay. Click here to read my detailed post about choosing your Universal Orlando theme park tickets.

The Universal Orlando hotels

There are eight different hotels on the Universal Orlando property, spanning a wide price range. Universal breaks them down into four categories: value, prime value, preferred, and premier. Besides price, the main distinctions between the hotels are location, luxury, and Express Pass.

The Hard Rock Hotel, Portofino Bay Resort, and the Royal Pacific Resort all include free Express Passes with the room, the other Universal Orlando hotels do not. This is an important distinction that needs to be considered when you choose where to stay. Express Pass can really improve your experience at Universal Orlando, especially if you travel during a peak time.

I’ve created an entire post and podcast episode (episode 33) all about Universal Orlando Express Pass and highly recommend you review this before you plan your visit.

Here is my breakdown of what you can expect at each of the Universal Orlando hotels. For more info about Universal Orlando, including detailed descriptions of all the on-site hotels, I highly recommend picking up a copy of The Unofficial Guide to Universal Orlando.

Want to hear what it’s like to stay in one of the Universal Orlando Express Pass hotels? Don’t miss Go Informed Podcast episode 70.

Portofino Bay Hotel

The Portofino Bay is a huge luxury hotel themed to look like an Italian seaside village. It’s located within walking distance to the parks, and includes free Universal Unlimited Express Pass. The rooms are spacious and this property really feels luxurious. The hotel also houses a Mandara Spa.

• Free Unlimited Express Pass to all guests: Yes
• Daily early park admission: Yes
• Walk to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure: Yes, about 15 minutes
• Transportation to parks/CityWalk: Free Water Taxi
• Dining: 3 table service restaurants, plus multiple quick service options, including a Starbucks
• Pool: 3 pools, one with a sandy shore and water slide
• Themed Family Suites: Despicable Me (sleep in one of those bomb-beds!)
• Operated by: Loews Hotels
• Price: $$$$ – includes Universal Unlimited Express Pass for all guests for every day of the stay

Click here to check prices and availability at Portofino Bay.

Hard Rock Hotel

The closest to the parks of all the Universal Orlando hotels, the Hard Rock is less than a 10 minute walk from the entrance to Universal Studios. The Hard Rock is known for its cool vibe – you can borrow a turntable and vinyl records to play in your room – and for its pool, which has an underwater sound system.

Despite it’s rock ‘n roll theme, rooms at the Hard Rock are quiet and comfortable. I think they have the best beds in all of Orlando. Reserve a pool-view room and you’ll likely also have a view of the Universal Studios theme park.

This hotel includes free Unlimited Express Pass for all guests, and has the best gift shop on property.

• Free Unlimited Express Pass to all guests: Yes
• Daily early park admission: Yes
• Walk to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure: Yes, less than 10 minutes
• Transportation to parks/CityWalk: Free Water Taxi
• Dining: 2 table service restaurants, plus several quick service options
• Pool: White sand beach pool with underwater speakers
• Themed Family Suites: Future Rock Star
• Operated by: Hard Rock/Loews Hotels
• Price: $$$$ – includes Universal Unlimited Express Pass for all guests for every day of the stay

Click here to check prices and availability at the Universal Orlando Hard Rock Hotel.

Royal Pacific Resort

Designed much like a contemporary Hawaiian resort, the Royal Pacific is surrounded by palm trees and has an expansive open lobby. This hotel even features a luau on select evenings, and the pool is a sandy lagoon.

There is a large conference space adjacent to the Royal Pacific, so at times the hotel can be busy with non-theme-park guests. We once ended up on the same floor as a bunch of contestants for the Latin kids’ version of The Voice (La Voz)! So be sure to request a quiet location if you plan to be in bed early before your early admission at the parks.

Unlimited Express Pass is included with your stay at Royal Pacific.

• Free Unlimited Express Pass to all guests: Yes
• Daily early park admission: Yes
• Walk to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure: Yes, about 10 minutes
• Transportation to parks/CityWalk: Free Water Taxi
• Dining: 2 table service restaurants, plus sushi and several quick service options. Luau on select nights. Despicable Me character breakfast.
• Pool: Sandy lagoon surrounded by palm trees
• Themed Family Suites: Jurassic World
• Operated by: Loews Hotels
• Price: $$$$ – includes Universal Unlimited Express Pass for all guests for every day of the stay

Click here to check prices and availability at the Royal Pacific Resort.

Sapphire Falls Resort

Much like the Royal Pacific, Sapphire Falls has a tropical theme, in this case inspired by the Caribbean. Featuring a huge sand beach pool and a bar specializing in exotic rums, this resort exudes an island vibe.

Sapphire Falls neighbors the Aventura and Cabana Bay resorts. For all three of these hotels, Universal provides free near-constant bus transportation to the parks and CityWalk. Sapphire Falls is also on the walking path to CityWalk and has water taxi service.

• Free Unlimited Express Pass to all guests: No
• Daily early park admission: Yes
• Walk to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure: Yes, about 15 minutes
• Transportation to parks/CityWalk: Water taxi, free shuttle bus
• Dining: 2 table service restaurants, plus rum bar and several quick service options.
• Pool: 16,000 square foot pool with white sand beach and water slide
• Themed Family Suites: Beach
• Operated by: Loews Hotels
• Price: $$$

Click here to check prices and availability at the Sapphire Falls Resort.

Aventura Hotel

Aventura is a modern high-rise hotel located right next to Sapphire Falls, and across the street from Cabana Bay. Featuring a wide-ranging food hall and a roof-top outdoor bar, this hotel is a favorite for guests looking for flexible dining options and sleek design. The Skyline view rooms have sweeping views of the Universal parks and Orlando.

• Free Unlimited Express Pass to all guests: No
• Daily early park admission: Yes
• Walk to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure: No
• Transportation to parks/CityWalk: Free shuttle bus
• Dining: Extensive food hall plus outdoor rooftop bistro bar, Starbucks in lobby
• Pool: Pool, splash zone, and fire pits
• Themed Family Suites: Not themed
• Operated by: Loews Hotels
• Price: $$

Click here to check prices and availability at the Aventura Hotel.

Cabana Bay Beach Resort

Designed in a kitschy mid-century motel theme, Cabana Bay features large family suites, an extensive pool complex, and a moderate price level. This hotel neighbors Universal’s Volcano Bay water park, and some rooms have spectacular views of the signature lava-spewing volcano.

Cabana Bay has loads of activities on property, including two pools, a lazy river, a bowling alley, and even a Jack LaLanne fitness center. Dining is mostly casual, but more upscale options are just across the street at the Aventura and Sapphire Falls.

• Free Unlimited Express Pass to all guests: No
• Daily early park admission: Yes
• Walk to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure: No
• Transportation to parks/CityWalk: Free shuttle bus
• Dining: Mainly casual burgers and pizza, Starbucks in lobby
• Pool: Two pools, lazy river, waterslide
• Themed Family Suites: Not themed – but family suites here are large. 2 bedroom/2 bath suites with kitchenettes are also available
• Operated by: Loews Hotels
• Price: $$

Click here to check prices and availability at the Cabana Bay Beach Resort.

Did you know you can leverage Universal’s early admission to beat the crowds twice on the same day? Find out how to double-up your rope drop here.

Surfside Inn and Suites

The Surfside Inn is part of a new resort area at Universal called Endless Summer. Many of the guest rooms at the Surfside are family-suite style, including two-bedroom suites with kitchenettes. The vibe here is surfer style and the price is competitive with off-property brands like Embassy Suites. This is a great option for budget-minded families who want to stay on-site at Universal.

• Free Unlimited Express Pass to all guests: No
• Daily early park admission: Yes
• Walk to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure: No
• Transportation to parks/CityWalk: Free shuttle bus
• Dining: Food court, Starbucks in lobby, pizza delivery to room
• Pool: Surfboard shaped pool
• Themed Family Suites: Not themed – but family suites are abundant
• Operated by: Loews Hotels
• Price: $

Click here to check prices and availability at the Surfside Inn and Suites.

Dockside Inn and Suites

Located right next to the Surfside, the Dockside completes Universal’s Endless Summer Resort. At 2,050 guest rooms and suites, the Dockside is a huge addition to Universal’s total room inventory. Prices here are comparable to the Surfside, which means families can stay on-site for the same price or less than nearby chain hotels. As a suite-heavy hotel, guests can book two-bedroom family suites with kitchenettes, which offer plenty of space for large family groups.

• Free Unlimited Express Pass to all guests: No
• Daily early park admission: Yes
• Walk to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure: No
• Transportation to parks/CityWalk: Free shuttle bus
• Dining: Food court, pizza delivery to room
• Pool: Two huge pools plus splash pad
• Themed Family Suites: Not themed – but family suites are abundant
• Operated by: Loews Hotels
• Price: $

Click here to check prices and availability at the Dockside Inn and Suites.

More Universal Orlando Hotel Tips

Pool hopping

At almost all of the on-site properties, guests at the Universal Orlando hotels are allowed to “pool hop”. This means you are free to visit the pool at any, or all, of the on-site hotels. So even if you stay at the Aventura, you can take the shuttle to the Hard Rock and party there all afternoon. The only resorts that aren’t included are the Endless Summer Dockside and Surfside.

Themed wake-up calls

One of our favorite little features at the Universal Orlando hotels is the wake-up call. You can choose from a bunch of options themed to the parks – and in the case of the Hard Rock, the hotel itself. Here’s the wake-up call menu at the Hard Rock hotel.

Character wake-up calls is one of my top morning tactics. If you have trouble getting your family up on time for rope drop, be sure to check out my list of 7 no-drama morning tips.

Save money with an annual pass

Universal often offers hotel room discounts of 25% or more to annual passholders. This includes discounts on the high-end Express Pass hotels. Even if you plan only one visit during the year, purchasing an annual pass may be worth it. Be sure to read my post all about the value of a Universal Orlando annual pass here.

Use points to book your room

If you are a member of the Loews or Hard Rock loyalty program, you can use these points to get a discount or even a free room. Loews actually operates every one of the Universal Orlando resorts, and the Hard Rock Hotel Orlando is also part of the Hard Rock loyalty program.

Get help from a travel agent

At no extra cost to you, travel agents often have access to package deals that you can’t get on your own. This can mean a total savings on your hotel and park tickets, or special deals like dining credits or discounted airport transfers. Plus a travel agent is indispensable in the event that you need to cancel or modify your vacation.

Add Universal to your Disney World vacation

It’s easy to combine Universal with your Disney World trip. Check out my post here to get my advice about the best way to add Universal to your Disney World vacation.

Here’s my Essential Guide to the Disney World Hotels.

More Universal Orlando and Disney World Tips

Here on GoInformed.net you’ll find tons of advice to help you have a fabulous Orlando theme park vacation. Be sure to check out the Go Informed Podcast, along with these posts:

• 33 Things to Know Before You Visit Universal Orlando
• 55 Things to Know Before You Visit Disney World
• All About Universal Orlando Express Pass
• How Universal Orlando compares to Universal Hollywood
• How to choose your Universal Orlando park tickets

Kick start your theme park knowledge with my 60-second quick start guides! Check them out right here.

Looking for a Universal Orlando crowd prediction calendar? The math wizards over at TouringPlans.com have you covered! Pick up a copy of their Unofficial Guide to Universal Orlando too.

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The post All About the Universal Orlando Hotels appeared first on Go Informed.

A lot has changed at Universal Orlando in response to the global pandemic. These are my top ten tips to help you plan your trip to Universal Orlando during COVID, updated frequently to reflect the evolution of policies and procedures.

This post was last updated on February 14, 2022.

These are the show notes for Go Informed Podcast episode 51. Click below to hear the show now, or search for Go Informed: Build A Better Vacation on your favorite podcast app!

Listen to my 2022 theme park update episode of the Go Informed Podcast here

Tip 1: Follow The Rules

Universal has implemented a lot of rules to help keep everyone safe. Be sure to get familiar with the requirements well before your visit. Your best resource for the complete rules and procedures will always be Universal’s official website.

In addition to Universal’s rules, make sure your state or country does not fall under a travel or self-quarantine restriction from the State of Florida.

Tip 2: You may need to wear a mask

Mask policies have varied a lot since Universal Orlando re-opened in the summer of 2020, and Universal will often make a change with very little notice. Current policy is that masks are optional for all guests, and encouraged for unvaccinated guests when indoors. Watch Universal’s website to be sure the requirement hasn’t changed before your visit.

Universal is requiring all unvaccinated employees to wear face coverings indoors.

Here’s a great post from Disney Dream Co. with some excellent tips about wearing a mask at the parks.

60-Second Universal Orlando Quick Guide

Tip 3: No Park Reservation Required at Universal Orlando

Unlike Disney, Universal does not require advance reservations to get into any of the Orlando theme parks. All you need is a park ticket or annual pass.

If you’re also planning to visit Disney World, you will need advance park reservations there. Be sure to read this post before planning your visit to the Disney World parks.

Tip 4: Capacity may be Limited

Universal officials have confirmed that park capacity is now operating at 100%. This means everyone with a ticket should be able to enter.

You may encounter capacity limitations on some attractions and shows, and it still really pays to get there early and consider an Express Pass. Be sure to review all my touring tips here before you go.

How do you know when the parks will be crowded? Universal’s date-based ticket pricing can provide a big clue. If your park tickets are at the top end of the pricing that means Universal is expecting a full house. Paradoxically, Disney can also predict when Universal will max out on capacity.

Busy at Disney World means busy at Universal Orlando

Disney World’s park reservation calendar is also a very good indicator for Universal Orlando attendance. Even if you don’t plan to visit Disney World on your trip, it’s a good idea to find out whether those parks will max out on capacity during your dates. You can view the Disney park reservation availability here.

If the Disney parks are full you’ll know that there’s a lot of theme park visitors in Orlando on that date. Many of them will also be heading to Universal, so be sure to have some tactics to beat the crowds.

You can learn more about how Disney is operating during COVID-19 in this post.

Every Universal Orlando hotel is now open

These are the Universal Orlando hotels that are currently operating and taking reservations:

• Portofino Bay Hotel
• Hard Rock Orlando
• Royal Pacific Resort
• Cabana Bay Beach Resort
• Aventura Resort
• Sapphire Falls Resort
• Endless Summer – Dockside Inn

Tip 5: Availability is Limited

Along with lower capacity, a lot of things at Universal Orlando will have limited availability. This means dining options, hotel amenities, and a lot of the stuff you usually take for granted when you travel. So be sure to make dining reservations before you go. And check the website for your hotel to be aware of limitations on amenities like pool and gym access.

Another thing to be aware of is that locker capacity at the rides may be limited. To keep everything spaced out and avoid crowding, Universal may de-activate some ride lockers. If you can avoid carrying a bag, purse, or backpack into the park it is highly advised to do so. Or find a locker to stash your stuff and plan to leave it there while you ride multiple attractions.

Otherwise the longest line you stand in all day might be to put your stuff in, or get it out, of a locker.

Tip 6: Not Everything Has Changed

There are a lot of modifications at Universal Orlando right now, but a lot of things are still the same as always, including:

• Express Pass is still available, and still included in your stay at select hotels
• If you stay on-site you get an hour early admission every day
• Most of the rides are operating
• You can still get your favorite treats like butterbeer!
• Characters are available for pictures – just from a six-foot or more distance
• You can still experience most outdoor shows, like the Blues Brothers and Tales of Beedle the Bard
• The evening Cinematic Spectacular that takes place on the lake in Universal Studios Florida has returned on some select nights

Tip 7: Some Things Are Just Not Happening

Almost everything has returned to Universal Orlando, with the exception of parades. Even the wildly popular Halloween Horror Nights returned in 2021, and Mardi Gras is returning in February 2022.

Thinking about a California trip instead? Here’s my detailed comparison of Universal Orlando vs Universal Hollywood.

Tip 8: Get the Official Universal Orlando App

One of the most important things you can do before you head to Orlando is to load the official Universal Orlando app on your phone. Universal is using the app for a bunch of important functions right now and you will need it.

One of the main uses for the app is to get in a “virtual line” for major attractions. This system works a lot like Disney’s FastPass and for some of the attractions this is the only way you’ll be able to ride.

Once you enter a park, or CityWalk, you’ll be able to access the virtual line options in the app. Choose an attraction, then choose the time you’d like to ride. You can have up to two virtual line reservations at a time, and they don’t have to be in the same park. Note that the time on your reservation is the time you’ll be allowed to enter the queue, not the time you’ll be stepping on the ride. Universal’s using this system to keep crowds down in the queues for popular attractions like Hagrid’s Motorbike coaster.

Another use for the app is to mobile order food, so be sure to set up your profile in the app and store your payment info before you leave home.

Tip 9: Be Patient

Theme park touring always requires a lot of patience and flexibility. Take the amount of patience you usually bring to the park and multiply it by a lot. Not only will you have extra challenges, the park staff is working with new procedures under very stressful conditions.

Set your expectations as you probably have throughout the pandemic. Some things will go your way and some won’t. But if you stick to Tip 1 everything should go just fine.

Tip 10: Everything is Subject to Change

Watch Universal’s website for updates and changes. These can happen daily, so make sure you check the latest info even the day before your visit.

And be sure to subscribe to my newsletter so you’ll stay in-the-know as we move forward through 2022. Click here to sign up.

Universal Orlando Re-Opening Video

Want to see what it looked like inside Universal Orlando when it reopened? Here’s a great video tour from Prince Charming Dev.

Additional Resources for Planning Your Trip to Disney World and Universal Orlando

• 55 Things to Know Before You Visit Disney World
• 33 Things to Know Before You Visit Universal Orlando
• Universal Orlando complete hotel guide
• Adding a Visit to Universal Orlando to Your Disney World Trip
• Tips for Disney World During COVID-19

Considering a trip to Hawaii in 2021? Click here for my tips for Hawaii travel during COVID-19

The Go Informed Podcast

On the Go Informed Podcast you get all my top tips on-the-go. Find it now on your favorite podcast app and be sure to hit the subscribe button so you don’t miss an episode.

Join me on social media

• Facebook.com/goinformednet
• Instagram.com/goinformednet
• Pinterest.com/goinformednet

Looking for a good guidebook? I highly recommend The Unofficial Guide to Universal Orlando.

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The post 10 Things to Know About Universal Orlando During COVID appeared first on Go Informed.

Especially at Walt Disney World, walking distances between attractions can be vast. It’s important to be prepared to walk A LOT when visiting these parks. Knowing what to expect is a good first step to preparing for what will ultimately be a marathon of walking.

Want to find out about walking distances at Disneyland? Check out this post.

Audio tutorial

Go Informed Podcast episode 77 is a discussion of how to train for your Disney vacation. Find it on your favorite podcast app, including Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and Spotify.

How Many Miles Will You Realistically Walk at Disney World?

The distances listed below are just a sampling of how far apart things are in the Disney World parks. To set realistic expectations, keep in mind that you will inevitably do a lot of back-tracking. Plus you need to add in the mileage just getting to the park gate. For example, the walk from the Magic Kingdom bus stop just to the front gate is about a quarter-mile!

Underestimating distances is one of my top ten theme park touring mistakes. Get the list of what NOT to do here.

If walking these distances will be difficult for you, consider renting a wheelchair or scooter to help you get around. Be thoughtful about your abilities (and the endurance of your traveling companions too) so you can set realistic expectations and truly enjoy your Disney World vacation.

75-second Disney World Quick Guide

Train for Your Trip

One of the best things you can do to prepare for your Orlando theme park vacation is to start walking now. Luckily this is something we can all do just by walking out our own front door. Get your entire family in practice so they’ll be ready to handle all those miles.

Neighborhood Walk Bingo – Disney World Edition

Start thinking about your walking distances in terms of Disney destinations. For example, a half-mile walk in your neighborhood is the same as a walk from Epcot’s front gate to the Frozen ride.

I’ve created a fun Bingo card to help you turn your neighborhood walk into a virtual walk through the parks. Just track your miles then check off the corresponding distances on the card. On a typical walk you might pass Space Mountain, Mount Everest, and Big Thunder too!

You can get a free printable PDF of the Orlando theme park neighborhood walk bingo card right here.

Learn More About the Parks While You Walk

What’s a great thing to do on a walk? Listen to a podcast of course!

You can hear me describe all of the Orlando theme parks while you walk. The Go Informed Podcast archives include audio tours of all the Disney World and Universal Orlando parks, plus in-depth explorations of lands like Galaxy’s Edge and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Just search for Go Informed: Build a Better Vacation on your favorite podcast app. Don’t forget to hit the subscribe button!

I also highly recommend that everyone planning for a Disney World vacation get a copy of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World. This book has tons of great info and will help you with everything from choosing your hotel to planning your park days. Here’s a link on Amazon.

Get the Right Gear

Another thing I recommend is to be sure you have the right gear for all this walking. That means good walking or running shoes, comfortable socks, and a way to track your distance. There are lots of free apps for your phone to track distance, or you can use a fitness tracker.

Be sure to try out your new shoes and socks BEFORE you go on your trip. It’s important to get some miles on them to ensure everything is comfortable and really working for you while you still have the chance to make adjustments.

And, just in case, pack a few blister bandages in your park bag.

Are you going to Orlando in the summer heat? Be sure to check out my summer gear guide here.

Magic Kingdom Walking Distances

Believe it or not, Magic Kingdom is one of the smaller parks at Disney World. (If you need some context about the overall scale of Disney World check out this infographic). Here are some of the places you will likely walk on your day at Magic Kingdom.

• Magic Kingdom front gate to Cinderella Castle: 0.2 miles
• Magic Kingdom front gate to Seven Dwarfs Mine Train: 0.4 miles
• Magic Kingdom front gate to Space Mountain: 0.4 miles
• Space Mountain to Big Thunder Railroad: 0.4 miles
• Loop around Magic Kingdom park: 1.6 miles
• Walk from the Magic Kingdom bus stop to the front gate: 0.2 miles
• Walk from the Contemporary Resort to the Magic Kingdom front gate: 0.6 miles

Wondering how the distances at Disney World compare to Disneyland? Here’s my post with the Disneyland walking distances.

Epcot Walking Distances

At Epcot you can expect to cover a lot of ground on your own two feet. While there is boat transportation in the World Showcase end of the park, you’ll be walking the rest of the way.

Epcot has a unique design that gives it two park entrances. This expands the options for how to get around and offers a few shortcuts. Here are some of the walking distances at Epcot.

• Epcot front gate to Test Track: 0.3 miles
• Epcot front gate to Frozen (Norway): 0.5 miles
• Epcot front gate to Remy’s Adventure (France): 0.6 miles
• Epcot loop from front gate around World Showcase, back to front gate: 1.7 miles
• Test Track to Soarin’: 0.7 miles
• Epcot loop around World Showcase: 1.0 miles
• Epcot International Gateway entrance to Remy’s Adventure (France): 0.2 miles
• Epcot International Gateway entrance to Test Track: 0.5 miles
• Epcot International Gateway entrance to front gate: 0.7 miles

Disney’s Hollywood Studios Walking Distances

Hollywood Studios has a smaller footprint than the other parks, but you might find yourself back-tracking more often. So take these distances and double them to account for your round-trip to the attractions.

• Hollywood Studios front gate to Runaway Railway: 0.2 miles
• Hollywood Studios front gate to Slinky Dog Dash Coaster: 0.3 miles
• Hollywood Studios front gate to Millennium Falcon: 0.4 miles
• Hollywood Studios front gate to Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster: 0.2 miles
• Walk around most of Hollywood Studios: 1.2 miles
• Fantasmic theater seating to Skyliner gondola: 0.5 miles

Getting your feet, and your family, in condition for your trip is one of 8 tasks on my pre-trip checklist. Click here to find out what else to do before you go.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Walking Distances

Animal Kingdom is the largest of the Disney World parks, but a lot of the space is animal habitat. Nonetheless, you’ll find attractions spread out over a lot of area here. Be prepared to take breaks and give yourself lots of time to explore. Here are some of the walking distances at Animal Kingdom.

• Animal Kingdom front gate to Flight of Passage: 0.3 miles
• Animal Kingdom front gate to Kilimanjaro Safaris: 0.3 miles
• Animal Kingdom front gate to Expedition Everest: 0.4 miles
• Loop around most of Animal Kingdom: 1.9 miles

Walking Between the Disney World Parks

Disney World covers an area approximately the same size as San Francisco so you will not be walking between the parks, with the exception of a path between Hollywood Studios and Epcot. The walking distance from Epcot’s International Gateway to the Hollywood Studios entrance is about 1.1 miles.

Just for reference, here are some driving distances between the Disney World parks. Keep in mind that this is on major roads and freeways.

• Disney’s Animal Kingdom to Magic Kingdom driving distance: 5.5 miles
• Magic Kingdom to Epcot driving distance: 4.0 miles
• Epcot to Hollywood Studios driving distance: 4.3 miles
• Hollywood Studios to Animal Kingdom driving distance: 3.0 miles

Going from Disney World to Universal Orlando? Driving distance from Epcot to Universal is about 14 miles.

Universal Orlando Walking Distances

I personally think no Orlando vacation is complete without some time spent at Universal Orlando – especially for Harry Potter fans. Be sure to check out my 33 Things to Know Before You Visit Universal Orlando post for a ton of tips to help you go like a pro.

Universal Orlando has two theme parks right next to each other, both containing portions of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Here are some walking distances at Universal Orlando.

• Universal Islands of Adventure front gate to Hogwarts Castle: 0.5 miles
• Universal Islands of Adventure full loop: 1.2 miles
• Universal Islands of Adventure front gate to Universal Studios Florida front gate: 0.2 miles
• Universal Studios Florida front gate to Gringotts Bank: 0.5 miles
• Universal Studios Florida loop: 1.1 miles
• Walking from Gringotts Bank in Universal Studios Florida to Hogwarts Castle in Islands of Adventure: 1.2 miles (take the Hogwarts Express instead!)
• Universal Orlando parking garage to Universal Studios front gate: 0.8 miles
• Walking distance from the Universal Orlando Express Pass hotels:
  • Hard Rock Hotel to Universal Studios Florida gate: 0.4 miles
  • Portofino Bay Hotel to Universal Studios Florida gate: 0.8 miles
  • Royal Pacific Hotel to Islands of Adventure gate: 0.5 miles

Will this be your first visit to Universal Orlando? Be sure to check out this post and podcast episode loaded with Universal Orlando first-timer advice.

Free Printable Maps and Bingo Card

All of the maps you see here in the post, and the walk-in-the-parks bingo card are available for you to download and print!

• Click here to get the Orlando theme park walking distance maps
• Click here to get the Orlando theme park neighborhood walking bingo card.

Want a Disneyland themed walking bingo card too? You’ll find it here in my Disneyland walking distances post.

Additional Resources for Planning Your Trip to Disney World and Universal Orlando

• 55 Things to Know Before You Visit Disney World
• 33 Things to Know Before You Visit Universal Orlando
• Adding a Visit to Universal Orlando to Your Disney World Trip
• Disney World complete hotel guide
• Universal Orlando complete hotel guide

Get a 60-second jump-start on your vacation planning with my theme park quick start guides. Click here to see them all!

Bonus tips exclusively in your inbox

Want to save money, avoid hassles, and have more fun on your theme park vacation? Sign up now to get two bonus mini-posts every month, exclusive to the Go Informed mailing list!

This exclusive content is only available in your inbox and it’s totally free. Click here to join now.

What’s it like to walk at Disneyland Paris? Click here to find out!

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The post Disney World Walking Distances appeared first on Go Informed.