As a big theme park lover (and not just because I work here) I spend a LOT of time at Universal Orlando Resort. From days with complete itineraries to just going with the flow — I’ve done it all.
One thing that I’ve noticed is that there are just some rides, activities and restaurants that are somehow 1,000 times more remarkable during the evening. Something about the way screams echo into the darkness from the highest point of a rollercoaster to seeing the flames from the Ukrainian Ironbelly dragon at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley in the moonlight make an evening at Universal Orlando Resort the best! Here’s my list of top ways to spend your evening at the parks.
Universal Studios Florida
Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
I highly recommend catching a ride on Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit at Universal Studios Florida to get your night started and adrenaline pumping. I really like this ride at night because the view of Universal Studios Florida at the top — right before the 167 foot drop — is absolutely breathtaking. You’ll see all the attractions lit up at night which is truly a sight to see. Pick a song that you wanna rock out to above the sounds of your own shrieks and hold on tight!
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley
Because I’m such a fan of the “Harry Potter” books and movies, of course I had to include my favorite place: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter- Diagon Alley. Grab a delicious serving of Butterbeer ice cream at Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour and wait for the wonders to unfold. Everyone knows you have to witness the Ukrainian Ironbelly on top of Gringotts Bank breathing fire (which occurs randomly, weather permitting). However, one of the best times to experience this phenomenon is at night under the moonlit sky! The sound of the dragon and heat from the flames truly immerse you into The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Lombard’s Seafood Grille
I recently got to experience this charming full-service waterfront restaurant and absolutely recommend it for a night-time outing! Lombard’s Seafood Grille has an outdoor covered patio seating area which will definitely give you a beautiful view of the lake as you enjoy your delicious meal. Don’t skip out on the Devil’s Food Chocolate Cake either — you won’t regret it!
Universal Islands of Adventure
Jurassic World VelociCoaster
Feel the rush of the hunt with Jurassic World VelociCoaster in Universal Islands of Adventure as you race alongside the fierce Velociraptors and launch at 70 miles per hour. Catching this Jurassic World coaster in the evening honestly hits different: you’re unable to clearly see the track so you don’t know what’s coming second-by-second. What a thrill!
Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure is another ride that totally feels different at night compared to riding it in daylight. The sensation of riding a flying motorcycle at night — with a limited view of the track ahead of you — will immediately make you feel like you’re deep in the Forbidden Forest. I remember the first time I rode this ride at night, and it completely blew my mind!
PRO TIP: Set an alert on the Universal Orlando Resort App to catch a low wait time.
Confisco Grille
After a jam-packed day at the theme parks, you’re probably ready to head out and grab some dinner. Well, I’ve got just the place for you: stop by Confisco Grille which is located conveniently at the Port of Entry, and get yourself a delectable meal. What many people don’t know about this restaurant is that sometimes you can request outside seating upstairs, which during the evening enables for a beautiful moonlit dinner experience and view of Universal Islands of Adventure.
Universal CityWalk
Pat O’ Brien’s
Pat O’ Brien’s is a fun dueling piano bar for a night out at Universal CityWalk because it has awesome drinks, food and live music. Grab a few apps and drinks and head outside to their rustic courtyard to relax under the moonlight. This secret garden space will import you straight to New Orleans’ Bourbon Street with a beautiful centerpiece water fountain.
PRO TIP: Order the Cajun Crawfish Dip and be transported right to the bayou.
Red Coconut Club
The Red Coconut Club is the perfect place to dance the night away. There are two levels of music and glamor, perfect for a weekend night out (make sure to check the Universal Orlando Resort App for exact hours because it’s only open Thursday to Sunday). Think casual — yet chic, with a hint of tiki — and you’ve got the coolest club at CityWalk.
Universal Orlando Resort Hotels
Bar 17 Bistro
Looking for a delicious dinner with a view? Well, look no further, just head on over to Universal’s Aventura Hotel and make a beeline straight to the rooftop Bar 17 Bistro. This modern and sleek bistro serves up international flavors like Asian-inspired bao buns (my favorite is the braised short rib with Korean barbecue sauce) but also American classics like a burger and fries. Enjoy a refreshing cocktail like the Lavender Liftoff and take in the wonderful view that Bar 17 Bistro has to offer.
Sal’s Market Deli
Along the harbor of Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando, experience la dolce vita, the sweet life, by stopping in Sal’s Market Deli. Grab a delicious pizza for a picnic on the piazza and take in the beautiful waterfront view that Harbor Piazza has to offer. The way the moonlight reflects off the water will take your breath away — and what’s better than experiences that include pizza?
Strong Water Tavern
Another cool resort hidden gem is Strong Water Tavern at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando. The nautical-themed bar is a rum lover’s retreat, as they feature an entire wall of the Caribbean liquor — including vintage and rare bottles — and offer rum tasting flights. If you’re not a rum drinker, don’t fret! The menu boasts a variety of cocktails, wines, beers and non-alcoholic drinks to select from. Pair your drink of choice with any of their tapas-style bites.
PRO TIP: Grab a drink and head outside to enjoy the moonlit view from Strong Water’s terrace.
Let us know in the comments below if you try out any of our best ways to spend an evening at Universal Orlando Resort!
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