Let me set the vibes for you: A nice cool breeze, Frozen Butterbeer in hand and the roaring sounds of other theme park goers Hulk-ing out…ah, a perfect afternoon at Universal Orlando Resort.
As a bona fide theme park local and passholder, it doesn’t take much to convince me to pop into the parks for a day, even for just an afternoon. It often only takes a quick afternoon at the theme parks to turn your mood around, which I just so happen to think is one of the best perks about being a Universal Orlando Annual Passholder. You can drop in, get that adrenaline boost, then dip out whenever you please.
If you’re like me and enjoy coming to the parks during the afternoon for a quick trip, but aren’t sure on what to prioritize, don’t worry — I’ve compiled a list for the best ways to spend an afternoon at Universal Orlando Resort.
Universal Studios Florida
The Bourne Stuntacular
Picture credit: @tharinwhitephotography
Leave behind everything that you think you know about stunt shows and get fully immersed in this innovative fusion of film and stagecraft. The Bourne Stuntacular is a great break in between rides and crowds, what I like to call my “afternoon cool down.” It’s also enjoyable because it feels just like an immersive moviegoing experience — in less time, of course.
Spellcasting at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley
Picture credit: @nakai_barnor
As a huge fan of the “Harry Potter” books and movies, sometimes I just enjoy a nice stroll through The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida. I’ve found that the afternoon is the perfect time to wander and cast spells with my Interactive Wand. I’m particularly fond of the nice breeze that flows through the streets of Diagon Alley with the sun riding low along the rooftops of the wizarding shops. A fun challenge for witches and wizards is to try and see how many spells you can cast on the first try. With a flick of the wrist and the right incantation, watch the magic happen!
Central Park
Want to experience Central Park in New York but only have the afternoon to do so? Don’t fret — Central Park at Universal Studios Florida will make any Floridian feel like you really took the trip. Grab yourself a delicious crêpe from Central Park Crêpes and take a gratifying stroll through the park — you’re living like a N.Y. local.
Universal Islands of Adventure
The High In the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride
Picture credit: @mallory.drew
The High In the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride is a gently moving ride and is delightful for those afternoons where you get off of work early and want to have a relaxing few park hours. It features two trolleys on two different tracks winding above the other rides and buildings in Seuss Landing.
PRO TIP: Catch a ride during golden hour for the best view of Islands of Adventure.
The Incredible Hulk Coaster
Picture credit: @brit.photography
The Incredible Hulk Coaster is my favorite coaster to catch in the afternoon for a pump of adrenaline. The weather starts to cool down, so it’s not too hot and humid, and you’ll have the wind blowing through your hair as you’re trying not to scream at the launch.
PRO TIP: Don’t forget to set a wait time alert on the Universal Orlando Resort App!
Port of Entry Waterfront
Instead of immediately peeling off left or right upon entering Islands of Adventure, stroll straight ahead to find one of my favorite hidden gems. Escape from the hustle and bustle with your favorite snack — convenient for me that this is located right next to Cinnabon — and sit back and relax next to the lake as the sun starts to set. Chill vibes only.
Universal CityWalk
Lone Palm Airport Bar
Look for Jimmy Buffett’s seaplane, the Hemisphere Dancer, at Universal CityWalk and find this cozy waterfront gem, the Lone Palm Airport Bar, located right under the plane’s wings. I highly recommend ordering a Premium Fruit Daiquiri (specifically mango) and some house-made guacamole served with chips for the best afternoon pick-me-up. The ambience of this bar just makes you want to sit and stay a while while vibing out to some tropical rock country music — perfect afternoon chill vibes.
Hollywood Drive-In Golf
Stop by for a mid-day tee time at Hollywood Drive-in Golf with an invasion from some 50s sci-fi flicks. Pick between “The Haunting of Ghostly Greens” and “Invaders from Planet Putt” for a “single-feature” (18 holes), or opt for a “double-feature” that includes both (36 holes). Because this is an outside excursion, going later in the afternoon won’t be as hot as going during the day time — perfect for a fun family adventure. Make sure to stop by the ticket booth for up-to-date pricing.
Voodoo Doughnut Orlando
Picture credit: @cathydoesdisney
Try one of the 50 off-the-wall flavors that Voodoo Doughnut serves up; you can even opt for a vegan one. They’re devilish-yet-delightful and serve as a delicious afternoon treat. At night, the donut lovers tend to come out so try swinging by during the afternoon before the rush.
PRO TIP: You can mobile order your donuts on the Universal Orlando Resort App and they’ll be ready at the convenient pick-up stand that Voodoo has set up.
Resorts
Mandara Spa at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
Need a little afternoon me-time away from the hustle and bustle? Find your inner zen at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel and indulge in a nice relaxing spa moment at Mandara Spa. Leave time at the door and enter a sanctuary of wellness. This is the perfect afternoon activity to destress, decompress and digress after a fun-filled morning at the theme parks and before the excitement of dinner.
Galaxy Bowl at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort
Want to try something different? Look no further — we have something right up your alley! Stop by Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort and try out the super cool Galaxy Bowl. I recently got to experience these lanes and had such a blast. They play fun pop music, have full service dining while you bowl, and set the perfect retro ambience for a nice afternoon.
PRO TIP: Grab a boozy adult shake from Shakes Malt Shoppe before hitting the lanes and let the good times roll!
Bula Bar & Grille at Loews Royal Pacific Resort
Spent all morning running around and needed a break? Stop by Bula Bar & Grille at Loews Royal Pacific Resort for a drink and some apps for an afternoon treat. The tropical flair of this poolside eatery will surely make you feel like you’ve been transported to the South Pacific for the afternoon — especially with a Maui Sunset Colada in hand.
Overall, if you find yourself with a free afternoon or maybe a few short hours, try out some of my favorite ways to spend an afternoon at Universal Orlando Resort. From a chill wind-down to an adrenaline rush, there’s something for everyone!
Any hits or misses for your favorite way to spend an afternoon at Universal Orlando Resort? Let us know in the comments below!