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.

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.

This post contains affiliate links.

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

Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure is a new roller coaster at Universal Orlando’s Islands of Adventure. On this episode of the Go Informed Podcast you’ll find out why this thrilling addition to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Hogsmeade Village, is a must-see for your next Orlando vacation. Plus get my tips to help you beat the crowds and avoid a huge wait for Hagrid’s Magical Motorbike coaster.

These are the show notes for Go Informed Podcast episode 46. Click the Play button to listen to the episode for lots more detail about this topic.

Why Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure is One of the Best Roller Coasters in the World

Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure opened in the summer of 2019. It’s located in the Hogsmeade Village part of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, at Universal Orlando’s Islands of Adventure. This coaster took the place of the old Dragon Challenge coasters that I mentioned on my audio tour of the Wizarding World on episode 5.  The ride takes you on a thrilling trip through the Forbidden Forest on Hagrid’s flying magical motorbike.

Theming on Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure

A few things set this coaster apart from others at Universal Orlando and around the world. First is the theming. Like the rest of the rides at the Wizarding World, Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure is highly themed. You will pass a life-size animatronic Hagrid as well as some pretty impressive magical creatures. And the entire ride takes place in a real forest.

Riders sit on Hagrid’s motorbike or in the side car. Both are unique experiences and I recommend trying both.

Walking through the outdoor queue you’ll get a view of the coaster flying through the forest. You’ll also have a great photo op of Hogwarts castle, and an up-close look at Hagrid’s hut. (Do be aware that it’s going to be HOT in that outdoor queue if you visit in the summer. Check out episode 28 for my top tips about coping with the hot weather).

Hagrid’s Coaster Delivers the Thrills

As far as the thrill-level goes, Universal has built some pretty unique features into Hagrid’s coaster. It’s the longest roller coaster in Florida, and has seven different high-speed launches. If you like coasters with quick launches, you’re going to love this. A big reason for the launches relates to the theming – the coaster slows down when there’s something to see, then quickly boosts forward again. So you really get the Harry Potter theming along with roller coaster thrills.

And not all of the launches are in the forward direction either. Hagrid’s Motorbike is so magical that it actually goes backwards, at a very high speed, for quite a distance. For fans of Disney’s Expedition Everest – you will love this. I think the backwards segment on Hagrid’s coaster is even longer than on Expedition Everest, and it’s just plain fun.

Just when you think you’ve seen it all, there is also a drop sequence on this coaster. Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure is one of the only roller coasters in the world that has a track drop like this. The engineering is pretty amazing and the drop is quite substantial.

Remember that Universal has a rider swap system, so if someone in your group is unsure about riding this attraction, use rider swap and test it out. This post is all about how to use rider swap at Universal.

Beware Frequent Breakdowns

Because Hagrid’s coaster has a very complex ride system, Universal has been having trouble keeping it running in these first few months. Be aware that on some days it will just not be operational, and that on most days there will be times when it closes down unexpectedly. For these reasons, I recommend having a good touring plan to try to get on Hagrid’s coaster as early as possible.

Tips for Riding Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure Without the Wait

Take a super popular ride, add in a propensity for breakdowns, and you’ve got a recipe for a really long wait. That’s what you can expect at Hagrid’s coaster. Wait times are routinely two hours – or longer! – and that’s a long time to stand in line. Luckily, I’ve got some tips to help you ride multiple times without waiting and maybe even walk right on.

No Express Pass Entrance at Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure

There is currently no Universal Express Pass queue at Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. You may know that Express Pass is one of my top tips for beating the crowds at Universal Orlando.  But unfortunately for now, Express Pass won’t help you here.

If you have an Express Pass it will help you skip the lines at pretty much every other attraction in the Wizarding World, so make sure to prioritize Hagrid’s coaster for early morning. This will likely be the longest line you wait in all day.

Hagrid’s Magical Motorbike Adventure Does Have a Single Rider Line

Single rider is usually available at Hagrid’s coaster. On the day I visited, singles had to wait in the standby line until it reached the building, then break off through a singles entrance. I don’t know if this is how it’s always done. When I rode single, my wait before reaching the single rider entrance was about 20 minutes, then only about 2 minutes once I entered the actual singles line. If you’re thinking about riding single, ask the attendant at the beginning of the ride queue whether it’s available, and worth it.

Find out all about using single rider to hack your way to the front of a long line here.

Getting to the Park Early is Your Best Bet to Avoid Long Waits at Hagrid’s Coaster

It’s my number one tip in my 33 Things to Know Before You Visit Universal Orlando, and it is doubly important for Hagrid’s coaster – get to the park early. If you get there before the crowds you can ride multiple times in the first hour of park operation. On the day I visited, I was able to ride three times in the first hour. That’s about three times more than I could ride during any other hour of the same day.

Tips for Rope-Dropping Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure

1. Arrive at Islands of Adventure at least 45 minutes before official park opening time
2. Don’t carry anything you can’t zip into your pockets. If you have a bag, hat, or any other loose item, you’ll have to stop and put it in a locker before you get into the Hagrid’s coaster queue. I carried a folded drawstring backpack in my pocket to use later but did not carry it as a backpack when I entered the park.
3. Don’t walk straight into Hogsmeade Village, there’s a special route for Hagrid’s coaster. Watch for signs and park employees directing you after you pass Mythos Restaurant.
4. Be ready when you load onto the ride. Decide before you get there whether you want to ride on the motorbike or the sidecar.
5. Ride single after the first or second time through.

If Hagrid’s coaster is not running when you enter the park, follow my tips for Islands of Adventure early admission.

Do Your Homework Before You Go

Make sure you know what to expect and where to go before you get to the park. I highly recommend The Unofficial Guide to Universal Orlando and the Touring Plans Lines app to help you get ready.

These Go Informed posts and podcast episodes will help you dive deeper into the topics discussed on today’s episode:

How to Rope Drop – Go Informed Podcast Episode 044

Getting Ready for Your Universal Orlando Trip – Go Informed Podcast Episode 006

Tips for Your First Day in the Universal Orlando Parks – Go Informed Podcast Episode 007

Master Your Theme Park Morning – Go Informed Podcast Episode 019

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To support the show and get bonus episodes too, visit Patreon.com/GoInformed

Leave a Rating or Review on Itunes: Here’s a link to the Go Informed podcast on iTunes. Thanks for listening, and for your review!

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 to Your Disney World Trip

The Go Informed Podcast

Find all the episodes in the series 10 Days to a Better Disney World Vacation here.

Find all the episodes in the series 7 Days to a Better Universal Orlando Vacation here.

Join me on social media

Facebook.com/goinformednet

Instagram.com/goinformednet

Pinterest.com/goinformednet

This post contains affiliate links.

The post Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure at Universal Orlando – Go Informed Podcast Episode 046 appeared first on Go Informed.

On this episode I discuss some of our touring challenges, new hacks, and other things we learned on our recent Universal Orlando trip. You’ll find out what it’s like to visit Universal Orlando in June, and how to handle the weather and other challenges that go with a summer vacation in Florida. The notes here are for quick reference. Be sure to listen to the episode to hear all the details.

These are the show notes for episode 31. Listen to the episode for lots more detail about this topic.

Or listen on your favorite podcast app! Just search for the Go Informed Podcast.

Tips From My June Universal Orlando Trip

The Weather Really Does Affect Your Visit to Orlando

We experienced extreme weather a lot on this trip, with heavy rain that lasted over an hour several times. From this, we observed a few weather cues that can help you figure out when rain is imminent.

Watch for black clouds. Those puffy white clouds are just a precursor. When you see the dark clouds that’s a sign that the rain is getting close. Usually within a half hour or so.

Notice the wind. It suddenly gets windy right before the downpour starts. When you feel that wind, it’s time to cover up and get inside.

Here are my other episodes and posts about Orlando weather:

Top 5 Orlando Summer Weather Tips – Go Informed Podcast Episode 028

Disney World and Universal Orlando Summer Gear Guide – Go Informed Podcast Episode 024

Weather at Universal Orlando: 5 Cool Tips for the Heat and Rain

Disney World Weather Tips and Why August is a Great Time to Visit Orlando

This is my post about what to do if you experience extreme weather on your trip, including soaking wet shoes.

Here’s a link to the video of the rainstorm we experienced on our ride to the Orlando airport.

Get This Shirt

I mentioned this shirt on episode 28. After testing it out in the Orlando heat, I can absolutely recommend it for your trip. It was comfortable, it never wrinkled, and it never got sweaty or stinky. Plus it looked better than just a t-shirt. To see who’s sitting on the bench next to me, take a look at the shownotes for episode 32.

It’s called the Club Ride Bandara Plaid Bike Jersey and you can find it on Amazon here.

Yes, they make shirts like this for guys too. Here’s a link.

Watch the Universal Orlando Early Admission Schedule – It Can Change!

Double-check the Universal Orlando early admission park schedule to make sure it hasn’t changed. We ended up going to the wrong park on our first morning!

Make Sure You Have the Touring Plans Lines App on Your Phone

Here’s a post about some of the apps I recommend you use for your trip to Universal Orlando.

What To Do If a Ride Malfunctions at Universal Orlando

Be aware that some of the rides at Universal Orlando are prone to breakdowns. Especially the Harry Potter and the Escape From Gringotts attraction.

If a ride breaks down when you’re in it, stay calm. We were stuck on the Gringotts ride for around 20 minutes one morning. It was inconvenient and not the first time this has happened to us.

If you get stuck on a ride or if there’s any kind of glitch that affects your enjoyment, be sure to talk to a ride attendant as soon as you get off. They will often let you ride again without going back through the line.

Make sure you’re courteous to the park employees. They are trying their best to get you on your way.

Listen to the episode for more tips about what to ask for when you get stuck on a ride at Universal.

Booking.com

Universal Express Pass Updates

If you are staying at an Express Pass hotel (Hard Rock Hotel, Portofino Bay, or Royal Pacific), your hotel room key is now your Universal Express Pass. No more going to a kiosk to print a separate pass.

When you go through an Express Pass line at Universal Orlando, the attendant will scan the bar code on your room key and you will be photographed by a facial recognition camera. Universal is using facial recognition to make sure you are the person who belongs with your Express Pass.

The facial recognition system is fast and seems to be really accurate. I never had to have it take my picture more than once, and it just takes a few seconds to get through this extra step.

Park Entry Procedures and Tips

Here’s Universal’s official page about what you can and can’t bring into the parks.

When you get to the park gates early in the morning, don’t get in the longest line just because there are people in it. Go to the shortest line or an empty turnstile. The people who started those long lines don’t have any more information about where to stand than you do. Pick an empty line and be first in the park.

Get Free Water at Universal Orlando

Make sure you’re staying hydrated in the Florida heat. You can get a free cup of water from any quick service restaurant or kiosk that has fountain soda drinks. Just walk up and ask.

Listen to a Secret Song on the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit Roller Coaster

There is a secret song menu on the Rip Ride Rockit with about 40 extra songs you can choose from. Choices range from Led Zeppelin to Barry White to Muse, and even a few classical selections.

Here is the website where you can find out how to access the Rip Ride Rockit secret song list. Make sure you read the instructions so you know how to access the menu when you get on the ride.

Leave a Rating or Review on Itunes

Here’s a link to the Go Informed podcast on iTunes. Thanks for listening, and for your review!

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 to Your Disney World Trip

The Go Informed Podcast

Find all the episodes in the series 10 Days to a Better Disney World Vacation here.

Find all the episodes in the series 7 Days to a Better Universal Orlando Vacation here.

Find all episodes of the Go Informed podcast here.

Join me on social media

Facebook.com/goinformednet

Instagram.com/goinformednet

Pinterest.com/goinformednet

This post contains affiliate links.

The post Lessons From My June Universal Orlando Trip – Go Informed Podcast Episode 031 appeared first on Go Informed.

Guests staying in any of the on-site hotels at Universal Orlando get early theme park admission every morning of their stay. Not every park is open early every day, and not every attraction is open early, so it’s really important to have a plan so you’ll be ready to make the most of your extra hour in the park. This episode outlines my advice for making your Universal Islands of Adventure early admission plan of attack.

These are the show notes for episode 26. Listen to the episode for lots more detail about this topic.

Or listen on your favorite podcast app! Just search for the Go Informed Podcast.

Make sure you check the Universal website to find out which park will be open early during your stay. If it turns out that your early admission will be at Universal Studios Florida, check out episode 23 here.

At Islands of Adventure early admission the only attractions that are open are in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Hogsmeade Village.

If Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure is your top goal at Islands of Adventure, be sure to listen to episode 46 here.

The hotels that give guests early admission to the Universal Orlando theme parks are: Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel, Royal Pacific, Cabana Bay, Sapphire Falls, Aventura Hotel, Surfside Inn, and Dockside Inn. Consider staying at least one night in one of these hotels so you can enjoy early park admission.

Be sure to check out my guide to all the Universal Orlando Resort hotels here.

Decide your priorities for the morning BEFORE you get there. You can find out what’s in Hogsmeade Village on episode 5 of the Go Informed podcast.

For early admission, you need your park ticket and you need to bring your room key. Every guest entering the park must show a room key for early admission. The hotel will issue a personalized key card for every guest at check-in – even kids.

Booking.com

Arrive at the park at least 30 minutes before the scheduled early admission opening time.

Get my tips for how to master your theme park morning here.

If this is your first day ever at the park, listen to episode 7 before you go to Universal Orlando.

Not sure if the Forbidden Journey ride is right for your entire family? Here’s my tip for how to find out if a ride at Universal Orlando is too scary.

Yes, you can use your early admission to Universal Islands of Adventure to be one of the first guests in Diagon Alley at Universal Studios! Listen to the entire episode for lots of tips about this.

Click here to read my detailed post that outlines our typical plan for Islands of Adventure early admission, including tips to help you leverage your Islands of Adventure early admission to be first in Diagon Alley.

Get the lay of the land at Islands of Adventure on episode 4 of the Go Informed podcast.

Here are all seven episodes in the series 7 Days to a Better Universal Orlando Vacation.

Leave a Rating or Review on Itunes

Here’s a link to the Go Informed podcast on iTunes. Thanks for listening, and for your review!

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 to Your Disney World Trip

The Go Informed Podcast

Find all the episodes in the series 10 Days to a Better Disney World Vacation here.

Find all the episodes in the series 7 Days to a Better Universal Orlando Vacation here.

Find all episodes of the Go Informed podcast here.

Join me on social media

Facebook.com/goinformednet

Instagram.com/goinformednet

Pinterest.com/goinformednet

This post contains affiliate links.

The post Universal Islands of Adventure Early Admission Plan Of Attack – Go Informed Podcast Episode 026 appeared first on Go Informed.

Today’s episode of the 7 Days to a Better Universal Orlando Vacation series is all about your first day in the Universal Orlando theme parks. Topics discussed are how to be prepared, tips to avoid crowds, things you can expect to buy at the park, and some basic theme park touring tips.

These are the show notes for episode 7. Click the Play button to listen to the episode for lots more detail about this topic.

Or listen on your favorite podcast app! Just search for the Go Informed Podcast.

How To Have An Awesome First Day at Universal Orlando

Top tip: Be there early. Always try to arrive at least 30 minutes before the park opening time.

Episode 19 of the Go Informed podcast, Master Your Theme Park Morning, gives you the tools to get your family out of bed and ready for park opening.

Find out what to expect at a theme park rope drop here.

If you have early admission to Universal Studios Florida, be sure to listen to episode 23 before you go.

If you have early admission to Islands of Adventure, listen to episode 26.

Save the shopping for later in the day.

Don’t forget to bring your park ticket! For early admission you’ll also need your room key.

A lanyard is a good way to keep your room key, park ticket, and Express Pass handy. This is a fun thing to buy at the park.

Be sure to allow time to take breaks.

Keep an eye on the weather forecast.

Make sure your phone is fully charged.

Wear shoes that you could run a marathon in.

At Universal you’ll need to put your stuff in a locker before getting on many of the rides.

A parade can block your route – know if the parade is scheduled, and where it goes.

Sometimes you can get a better meal by dining outside the parks – in CityWalk or at one of the hotels.

You can do magic in the Wizarding World if you buy one of the interactive wands.

Consider buying a photo package if you like to get the ride photos.

Know your theme park etiquette. Review all the tips from Miss Maven’s theme park charm school before you go.

Find out more about a day in the Universal Orlando parks on episode 31 – my June Universal Orlando trip report.

Have fun!

Booking.com

Resources mentioned in this episode

33 Things to Know Before You Visit Universal Orlando

The Universal Guidebook I recommend: The Unofficial Guide to Universal Orlando

My Universal Orlando Pinterest board

Five Things You Should Do The Night Before to Help You Wake Up Early On Your Theme Park Vacation

Here’s What It’s Like to Be First In Line At Universal Studios Florida (Video)

Eight Essential Apps for Your Universal Orlando Trip

My Universal Photos Package information on OrlandoInformer.com

Get more Universal Orlando first-timer advice on Go Informed Podcast episode 69

Comment Below

Thank you so much for joining me for these seven days at Universal Orlando. Please leave a comment below and let me know your thoughts and questions about this series.

Coming up next on the podcast will be 10 Days to a Better Disney World Vacation. Be sure to subscribe to the mailing list so you don’t miss an episode.

Listen to all the episodes in the series 7 Days to a Better Universal Orlando Vacation here.

Find all episodes of the Go Informed podcast here.

Join me on social media

Facebook.com/goinformednet

Instagram.com/goinformednet

Pinterest.com/goinformednet

This post contains affiliate links.

The post Tips for Your First Day in the Universal Orlando Parks – Go Informed Podcast Episode 007 appeared first on Go Informed.

In today’s episode of the 7 Days to a Better Universal Orlando Vacation series I share ten tips to help you get ready for your Universal Orlando vacation.

These are the show notes for episode 6. Listen to the episode for lots more detail about this topic.

Or listen on your favorite podcast app! Just search for the Go Informed Podcast.

Ten Tips To Get Ready For Universal Orlando

Tip #1: Get informed. Get a guide book, read online posts, check out Pinterest.

Tip #2: Start training for your trip. And get some good walking shoes.

Tip #3: Buy your park tickets before you go. Decide whether you want an Express Pass.

Consider buying a Universal Orlando annual pass. Annual passholders get big discounts on on-site hotels. Episode 40 helps you explore this option before you choose your park tickets.

Tip #4: Load park apps to your phone and try them out.

Tip #5: Know the park hours and which park has early admission.

Tip #6: Check out a crowd calendar.

Tip #7: Know what to expect from the weather. If you’ll be visiting Orlando between about May – October, be sure to listen to episode 24, which is my Orlando Summer Gear Guide.

Episode 28 is my Top 5 Orlando Summer Weather Tips.

Tip #8: Have a plan.

Tip #9: Things to buy before you go.

Anything you buy for your trip can be given as a gift. Surprise your fellow travelers with these top Universal Orlando vacation themed gift suggestions.

Tip #10: Things to bring.

Extra credit: Watch the movies and read the Harry Potter books.

Booking.com

Resources mentioned in this episode

33 Things to Know Before You Visit Universal Orlando

The Universal Guidebook I recommend: The Unofficial Guide to Universal Orlando

My Universal Orlando Pinterest board

Official Universal Orlando park tickets page

Eight Essential Apps for Your Universal Orlando Trip

Universal Orlando park hours information

Universal Orlando early admission schedule

Touringplans.com Universal Orlando crowd calendar

Weather at Universal Orlando: 5 Cool Tips for the Heat and Rain

Theme Park Rainy Day Tips: Xtreme Edition

Things to buy: Ponchos,  Antibacterial wipes

Universal Orlando Movies and TV Shows and the Rides They Inspired

The Harry Potter books

The Harry Potter books – audio version  (FREE with Audible Trial!)

Traveling around Christmas or Easter? Here’s some ideas for a Universal Orlando themed Easter Basket or Stocking Stuffers.

Tomorrow’s episode, Day 7 of 7 Days to a Better Universal Orlando Vacation, is all about what to expect on your first day in the Universal Orlando parks. Click here to listen now.

Find all the episodes in the series 7 Days to a Better Universal Orlando Vacation here.

Find all episodes of the Go Informed podcast here.

Join me on social media

Facebook.com/goinformednet

Instagram.com/goinformednet

Pinterest.com/goinformednet

This post contains affiliate links.

The post How to Get Ready for Your Universal Orlando Vacation appeared first on Go Informed.

Today’s episode in my 7 Days to a Better Universal Orlando Vacation series is a virtual tour of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure.

These are the show notes for episode 5. Listen to the episode for lots more detail about this topic.

Or listen on your favorite podcast app! Just search for the Go Informed Podcast.

Details About The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is located inside both the Universal Studios Florida park and the Islands of Adventure park. In Universal Studios you’ll find Diagon Alley, and in Islands of Adventure you’ll find Hogsmeade Village and Hogwarts Castle. The Hogwarts Express train runs between these two areas.

You will need a 2-park ticket to go to both Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade Village in the same day. In my opinion, it is well worth the additional cost.

Since this episode was recorded, Universal has opened a new attraction in the Wizarding World. It’s a roller coaster called Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and you can learn all about it on episode 46, or read about it here.

Wizarding World Attractions, and Other Magic, Discussed in this Episode

Hogsmeade Village

Interactive wands

Ollivander’s Wand Shop

Hogwarts Castle

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride

Shopping in the Wizarding World

Butterbeer

Hagrid’s Hut

Hogsmeade Train Station

Hogwarts Express

Kings Cross Station

London

The Knight Bus

No 12 Grimmauld Place

Stepping into Diagon Alley

The Gringotts Dragon

The Layout of Diagon Alley

Knockturn Alley

Shopping and dining in Diagon Alley

Gringotts Bank

Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts ride

Episode 23 of the Go Informed podcast is all about how to use Universal Studios Florida early admission to maximize your time in Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade Village. Listen to episode 23 here.

Episode 26 of the Go Informed podcast is your Islands of Adventure Wizarding World of Harry Potter early admission plan of attack.

Go Informed Podcast episode 73 includes a discussion of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando compared to at Universal Studios Hollywood. Click to read the post here.

Find out what the Wizarding World is like at Christmas time here.

Booking.com

Resources mentioned in this episode

Harry Potter fans, here’s how to make the most of Universal Studios Florida early admission

Get Early Admission to Diagon Alley and the Gringott’s Bank Ride

Is the Harry Potter Ride Too Scary? Use Universal’s Child Swap to Find Out

Universal Orlando Extends Express Pass Access to All Harry Potter Rides

33 Things to Know Before You Visit Universal Orlando

The Universal Guidebook I recommend: The Unofficial Guide to Universal Orlando

My Wizarding World of Harry Potter board on Pinterest

Tomorrow’s episode, Day 6 of 7 Days to a Better Universal Orlando Vacation, is all about what to do to get ready for your trip to Universal Orlando. Click here to listen now.

Find all the episodes in the series 7 Days to a Better Universal Orlando Vacation here.

Find all episodes of the Go Informed podcast here.

Join me on social media

Facebook.com/goinformednet

Instagram.com/goinformednet

Pinterest.com/goinformednet

This post contains affiliate links.

The post Wizarding World of Harry Potter Tour – Go Informed Podcast Episode 005 appeared first on Go Informed.

Today’s episode in my 7 Days to a Better Universal Orlando Vacation series is a virtual tour of Universal’s Islands of Adventure.

These are the show notes for episode 4. Listen to the episode for lots more detail about this topic.

Or listen on your favorite podcast app! Just search for the Go Informed Podcast.

Audio Tour of Universal Islands of Adventure in Orlando

Click here for a link to the Islands of Adventure map on the official Universal Orlando website.

Universal Islands of Adventure opened in 1999 and the theming is inspired by popular culture icons like the Dr. Suess books, comics, and big-budget movie franchises. There is pretty much something for everyone here.

Attractions Discussed on this Islands of Adventure Tour

The Incredible Hulk Coaster

The Amazing Adventures of Spiderman

Popeye and Bluto’s Bilge Rat Barges

Kong: Skull Island

Jurassic Park

Raptor Encounter

The talking fountain in the Lost Continent

Suess Landing

Plus tips about shopping and other interesting sights at Islands of Adventure.

I’m saving Hogsmeade Village and the Harry Potter attractions for episode 5, which is a tour of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Listen to that episode here.

If you will have early admission at Islands of Adventure, don’t miss episode 26: Islands of Adventure Early Admission Plan of Attack.

At Christmastime, Seuss Landing turns into Whoville! Learn more about Christmas at Universal Orlando here.

Booking.com

Resources mentioned in this episode

33 Things to Know Before You Visit Universal Orlando

Universal Orlando Movies and TV Shows and the Rides They Inspired

The Universal Guidebook I recommend: The Unofficial Guide to Universal Orlando

My Islands of Adventure board on Pinterest

Tomorrow’s episode, Day 5 of 7 Days to a Better Universal Orlando Vacation, is a virtual tour of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter! Click here to listen now.

Find all the episodes in the series 7 Days to a Better Universal Orlando Vacation here.

Find all episodes of the Go Informed podcast here.

Join me on social media

Facebook.com/goinformednet

Instagram.com/goinformednet

Pinterest.com/goinformednet

This post contains affiliate links.

The post Islands of Adventure Tour – Go Informed Podcast Episode 004 appeared first on Go Informed.

In this episode, I share tips for visiting the Universal Orlando parks no matter where you choose to stay. This episode also covers the basics of Universal’s Express Pass system, and theme park early admission for on-site hotel guests.

Hey guys – I’ve created a comprehensive guide to the Universal Orlando hotels that you can find right here. Be sure to check it out!

These are the show notes for episode 2. Listen to the episode for lots more detail about this topic.

Or listen on your favorite podcast app! Just search for the Go Informed Podcast.

When visiting Orlando, there are several options for where to stay

On-site at Universal Orlando

On-site at Disney World

Elsewhere in the Orlando area

In the episode, I discuss the pros and cons of staying on-site vs off-site for your Universal Orlando vacation.

On-Site Hotels at Universal Orlando

The on-site hotels at Universal Orlando Resort are:

Portofino Bay

Hard Rock Hotel Orlando

Royal Pacific Resort

Sapphire Falls

Cabana Bay Beach Resort

Aventura Hotel

My top tip is to stay on-site at a Universal Orlando hotel, especially the Hard Rock Hotel, Portofino Bay Hotel, or the Royal Pacific Hotel . Listen to the episode to find out why.

You can save big on your hotel if you have a Universal Orlando annual pass. Even if you live far from Florida it may make sense to get a pass just for these discounts. Episode 40 explains how to use an annual pass to save money on your Universal Orlando vacation.

Interested in hearing more about early admission at Universal Studios Florida? Episode 23 is your USF Early Admission plan of attack.

Find out more about early admission at Islands of Adventure on episode 26 of the Go Informed podcast.

Resources mentioned in this episode

Get lots more information about Universal Express Pass on episode 33.

33 Things to Know Before You Visit Universal Orlando

Adding a Visit to Universal to Your Disney World Trip

This One Simple Tip Can Save Money on your Entire Universal Orlando Vacation

Early admission schedule on Universal’s website

A guidebook I really like that has lots of info about the Universal hotels: The Unofficial Guide to Universal Orlando

My Universal Orlando board on Pinterest

Booking.com

Tomorrow’s episode, Day 3 of 7 Days to a Better Universal Orlando Vacation, is a virtual tour of the Universal Studios Florida theme park. Click here to listen now.

Find all the episodes in the series 7 Days to a Better Universal Orlando Vacation here.

Find all episodes of the Go Informed podcast here.

Join me on social media

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This post contains affiliate links.

The post Universal Orlando: Where To Stay – Go Informed Podcast Episode 002 appeared first on Go Informed.