Discover Universal

A Local’s Guide to Your First Time Visit to Universal Orlando Resort

Derek Reece
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley

EDITOR’S NOTE: This blog was originally published in October of 2019 and then underwent extensive updates and editing in the summer of 2021 to remain current and relevant.

Universal Orlando Resort is a place that allows you to 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’s 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 first timer tips to get the most out of your upcoming visit.

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

WHAT TO EXPERIENCE
AT UNIVERSAL STUDIOS FLORIDA

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: 

Great Places 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.

 

WHAT TO EXPERIENCE
AT UNIVERSAL ISLANDS OF ADVENTURE

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:

LOCAL TIP

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

WHAT TO EXPERIENCE
AT UNIVERSAL VOLCANO BAY



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:

LOCAL TIPS

  • First, plan to arrive early to Volcano Bay and secure that perfect beach chair with that incredible view. TapuTapu will also make your day easy. This wearable device that holds your place in lines, activates interactive surprises, makes cash-free payments and more.
  • Stay at a Universal hotel and enjoy early park admission to Universal Volcano Bay one hour before the park opens (valid theme park admission required).

WHAT TO EXPERIENCE
AT UNIVERSAL CITYWALK

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:

LOCAL TIPS

  • Take advantage of the FREE self-parking after 6PM!(Not valid during Halloween Horror Nights. Additional restrictions may apply and are subject to change without notice)
  • Free parking available with a purchase of two (2) Universal CityWalk Matinee tickets.

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:

Premier Hotels – $$$$


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 the 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

Preferred Hotel – $$$


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’s 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’s Aventura Hotel

Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort

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

Learn more about Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort

  

Value Hotel – $


Universal’s 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’s 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

THINGS TO KNOW

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 skip the regular lines 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 Official Universal 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 official Universal Orlando Resort App provides!

What can the Universal Orlando Resort mobile app do?

WHAT TO BRING

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 the 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 THE THEME PARKS

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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