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Universal Orlando Resort Tips for First Timers: A Local’s Guide

Derek Reece
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley

Universal Orlando Resort is a place that allows you to race across the sky and stars aboard Stardust Racers, explore the streets of Diagon Alley at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, visit a real-life Raptor Encounter to meet Blue the Raptor, float down the Kopiko Wai Winding River at Volcano Bay, and finish with a cold beverage high in the sky at Bar 17 Bistro on top of Universal Aventura Hotel all in one day.

With so much to see and do, how can you get the most out of it during your first-time visit? Here’s a few Universal Orlando tips for first-timers to get the most out of your upcoming visit.

UNIVERSAL EPIC UNIVERSE | UNIVERSAL STUDIOS FLORIDA | ISLANDS OF ADVENTURE | UNIVERSAL VOLCANO BAY | UNIVERSAL CITYWALK | WHERE TO STAY | THINGS TO KNOW | WHAT TO BRING | WHAT TO WEAR

Universal Epic Universe: Tips for First-Time Visitors

Universal Epic Universe is home to five immersive worlds beyond belief, where your favorite characters, most cherished stories and wildest dreams become real. After you step through the Chronos, prioritize these must-do experiences:

Where to Eat at Universal Epic Universe

  • Quick Service: Step inside Pizza Moon, themed after an early 1900s Victorian theatre, to experience the best pizzas Celestial Park has to offer.
  • Best View: Embark on an undersea adventure in fine dining at Atlantic, with a view of the Neptune pool of Celestial Park and the illuminated fish swimming above you.
  • Best Atmosphere: Step inside The Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant, where it’s always evening under the glow of ethereal lanterns and glowing neon dragons.
  • Romantic: Dine under the branches of an ancient, starlight-filled oak tree at The Oak & Star Tavern. If you’re lucky, you might get to enjoy some live music in The Plastered Owl Bar!
  • Sweet Treats: Enjoy all the (ice cream) flavors of the Milky Way at Frosty Moon.

Click here to view a complete list of Universal Epic Universe rides, attractions, dining and more.

Here are some resources to help plan your day:

LOCAL TIP: If you’re visiting Epic Universe in the evening, save time for a nighttime spin on Constellation Carousel — it’s an even more stunning experience after dark.

Universal Studios Florida: Tips for First-Time Visitors

Have you ever watched a movie and said “I wish I could experience that movie in real life”? Well, we have some good news for you. Check out these must-do experiences straight from the movies: 

Where to Eat at Universal Studios Florida

  • Quick Service: “Hey Hey, Kids!” Visit Springfield, U.S.A. and stop by Krusty Burger for a fun atmosphere and great meal.
  • Best View: Try an off-the-charts meal and take in an incredible view of the lagoon at Richter’s Burger Co.
  • Best Atmosphere: Get your fill of Bangers and Mash, Fisherman’s Pie, Toad in the Hole and more at the Leaky Cauldron
  • Romantic: Try Lombard’s Fresh Catch at Lombard’s Seafood Grille while you take in the nautical atmosphere on the docks of San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf
  • Sweet Treats: Try a Dole Whip Pineapple Sorbet at Schwab’s Pharmacy

Click here to view a complete list of Universal Studios Florida rides, attractions, dining and more.

Here are some resources to help plan your day:

LOCAL TIP: Start at the back of the park and work your way counter-clockwise to the front to stay ahead of fellow guests and take full advantage of ride lines.

Universal Islands of Adventure: Tips for First-Time Visitors

Get ready to encounter dinosaurs, fly high above city streets with a famous web slinger, visit a secret school of witchcraft and wizardry, come face-to-face with a colossal ape and more. Check out these must do experiences that give you a sense of adventure:

Great Places to Eat at Islands of Adventure

  • Quick Service: Enjoy a delicious meal at Three Broomsticks
  • Best View: Eat while you watch daring riders get drenched at Thunder Falls Terrace in Jurassic Park
  • Best Atmosphere: Dine with Super Heroes at Marvel’s Character Dinner at Marvel Super Hero Island in Islands of Adventure
  • Romantic: Take in the spectacular view of the park’s inland sea and colorful lands from the award-winning Mythos Restaurant
  • Sweet Treats: Pick up a delicious Butterbeer from Hog’s Head

Click here to view a complete list of Islands of Adventure rides, attractions, dining and more.

Here are some resources to help plan your day:

Check out our comprehensive one-day itinerary for Universal Islands of Adventure to make the most of your time.

LOCAL TIP: Start your day off in Hogsmeade and work your way clockwise around the park to take advantage of wait times and attractions.

Universal Volcano Bay: Tips for First-Time Visitors

Words can’t describe what it feels like the moment you take that first step inside Volcano Bay and immediately feel like you’re in a tropical paradise thousands of miles away in the Pacific Ocean. Check out these must-do experiences that are filled with relaxation and thrills:

Great Places to Eat at Volcano Bay

Click here to view a complete list of Volcano Bay rides, dining and more.

Here are some resources to help plan your day:

Click here to explore our Guide to Volcano Bay at Universal Orlando Resort for everything you need to know before your visit.

LOCAL TIPS:

Universal CityWalk: Tips for First-Time Visitors

Photo credit: @annemcdade

Get ready to indulge in some of the most mouthwatering food with refreshing drinks, shop until you drop and dance the night away at Universal CityWalk. Check out these must-do experiences for a day or night out:

Great Places to Eat at Universal CityWalk

Click here to view full list of entertainment, shopping and dining options at Universal CityWalk.

Here are some resources to help plan your visit:

For more tips on dining and entertainment, check out our full guide to Universal CityWalk at Universal Orlando Resort.

LOCAL TIPS

Where to Stay at Universal Orlando Resort


There’s a Universal Orlando hotel for every family style and budget. Take a look at all the amazing places you can stay so close to the theme parks:

Signature Collection Hotels | $$$–$$$$

Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel

Universal Helios Grand Hotel is a sunlit sanctuary with exceptional dining, a rooftop bar and relaxing amenities that make your stay extraordinary.

Learn more about Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel.

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel

Relax in surroundings inspired by the beauty, romance and charm of the picturesque seaside village of Portofino, Italy.

Learn more about Loews Portofino Bay Hotel.

Hard Rock Hotel

Live like a rock star and savor the perks of rock ‘n’ roll royalty with impeccable surroundings, laid-back style and show-stopping service.

Learn more about Hard Rock Hotel.

Loews Royal Pacific Resort

Get swept away in an exotic south seas paradise with tropical wonders, exotic foods, and carefree fun.

Learn more about Loews Royal Pacific Resort.

Loews Sapphire Falls Resort

Escape to the feeling of being in paradise with the calming sounds of steel drums, swaying palm trees, scenic views, and blue cascading waterfalls.

Learn more about Loews Sapphire Falls Resort.

Prime Value Hotels – $$

Universal Stella Nova Resort

Enter another galaxy at Universal Stella Nova Resort, where galaxies spiral ever outward and unknown worlds revolve around unnamed stars.

Learn more about Universal Stella Nova Resort.

Universal Terra Luna Resort

Inspired by the thrill of exploring the unknown and pushing the limits of discovery, Universal Terra Luna Resort is more than your launchpad into amazing adventures and exclusive theme park benefits at the parks; it’s also your landing zone for relaxation and recharging between the fun.

Learn more about Universal Terra Luna Resort.

Universal Aventura Hotel

It’s your chill zone, your party place, your hangout, your refuge. And the best part, it’s perfectly priced.

Learn more about Universal Aventura Hotel.

Value Inns & Suites | $–$$

Universal Cabana Bay Beach Resort

Enjoy vibrant, retro-style with rooms and suites brilliantly designed for fun and affordability.

Learn more about Universal Cabana Bay Beach Resort.

Universal Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites

Step into the extra affordable surf lifestyle with beach-themed standard rooms, spacious two-bedroom suites, and more.

Learn more about Surfside Inn and Suites.

Universal Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites

Inspired by sand, sea and breathtaking sunsets, this extra affordable retreat features two-bedroom suites, two large pools and more.

Learn more about Dockside Inn and Suites.

Still not sure where to stay? See our guide on choosing the best Universal Orlando hotel to find the perfect spot for your trip.

Things to Know for Your First Universal Orlando Visit

You might know about all the amazing experiences you’d like to try at Universal Orlando, but now let’s take a look at few ways you can get the most out of your first time trip with a few local planning tips.

Express Pass – Get to the Fun Faster

Want to get the most out of your visit? Check out a few of the Express Pass options available so you can enjoy shorter wait times at most of your favorite rides and attractions to get the most out of your day at the parks.

Did you know you the Express Pass is included FREE when you stay at a Universal Premier category hotel? Check out the details here.

Plan Your Entire Trip with Ease Using the Universal Orlando Mobile App

Imagine having your own travel guide to give you every bit of important information you need to get the most out of your first-time visit. That is what the Universal Orlando Mobile App provides!

What can the Universal Orlando Mobile App do?

Make the most of your visit by learning how to make the most of the Universal Orlando Mobile App with our helpful guide.

What to Bring to Universal Orlando Resort

Let’s dive into a few tips to help you decide what to bring during your first-time visit to the theme parks.

Backpacks and Shoulder Bags

Can you bring a bag or backpack to Universal Orlando Resort? Absolutely! A small, soft-sided bag is perfect for toting your essentials around while exploring the theme parks.

Potential Items To Add To Bag Include:

Check out What To Pack For A Day At Universal Orlando Resort for more great tips on what to bring to the theme parks.

Taking Photos at Universal Orlando Resort

Can you bring a camera to Universal Orlando Resort? Of course! You are about to have some of the best times of your life and what better way to remember those moments than incredible photos to take home with you.

LOCAL TIP: Since it’s your first time visiting the theme parks, check out the My Universal Photos options, so you can focus on the fun while they focus on capturing your best moments.

What to Wear

Florida is a tricky place when it comes to weather. Most of the time it’s warm and sunny, but there are those occasional days that cause us to break out our coats. Regardless, it’s good to be prepared. 

Check out the full list of Frequently Asked Questions on what to bring to the theme parks.

Did we miss anything? Tell us about some of your theme park first-timer tips in the comments below! And make sure to share your tips on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram with #ReadyForUniversal or ask for help with #AskUniversal.

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