I’m a big fan of experiences that take my breath away. Whether it’s feeling the wind in my hair on a rollercoaster or experiencing the reveal of a breathtaking view, I’m all about it.
The latter is what I’m here to cover today — my favorite views at Universal Orlando Resort! While I’d like to keep these little gems to myself, I can’t help but share some of the places that make me love visiting our theme parks so much. So here we go!
Universal Islands of Adventure
Port of Entry
When you enter Universal Islands of Adventure, it’s super tempting to make an immediate right (or a left, if you’re that kind of person) to start your day of fun. But, if you keep heading straight, you’ll find yourself at the edge of the main lagoon — which gives you a 360 degree view of the entire park.
Most attractions at Islands of Adventure are visible from this spot, so it’s a great opportunity to take a breather and make a game plan for your day. Or, grab a sweet treat from Croissant Moon Bakery and enjoy some quiet time by the water — the Jumbo Cinnamon Roll is my current go-to.
Me Ship, The Olive
Me Ship, The Olive, tucked away behind Wimpy’s, is the driest of the offerings in Toon Lagoon. Not only do you have a perfect vantage point to watch people get soaked on Popeye and Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges, but you also have access to water cannons to drench unsuspecting victims even more. Just don’t tell them I told you.
If you climb to the top of the ship, you’ll have this bird’s-eye view of the theme park. You can even see Universal Studios Florida and Universal CityWalk from up here!
Universal Epic Universe
Luna Overlook
Luna Overlook is one of the most popular photo spots at Universal Epic Universe, and for good reason — it provides a look at the theme park’s beautiful fountains and gorgeous landscapes, from the Chronos to Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel.
If you step into the theme park a bit and weave through the garden pathways, you’ll also find this stunning reverse view of Luna with the Chronos.
Atlantic
Also located in Celestial Park is Atlantic. When I first walked into this restaurant, my jaw fell straight to the floor. The views of Epic Universe from inside this venue are unmatched by any other place in the theme park. I am practically begging you to eat here just because of how immaculate the vibes are. And hey, the food is outstanding, too — my family and I were blown away by our meals, from steak to seafood.
How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk
How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk is one of my favorite worlds, if only just for the amazing theming — especially this spot, which you’ll see right after you walk through the portal.
Walk to the left (yes, you can go left first, just this one time) and you’ll get a view of Hiccup’s Wing Gliders soaring by. It really feels like you’re on Berk — sheep and all!
Universal Studios Florida
San Francisco Pier
I’m back again with another snack recommendation; this time, it’s anything from the case at San Francisco Pastry Company. After you’ve secured your goods, head around back and walk around the pier for awesome views of the lagoon at Universal Studios Florida.
Richter’s Burger Co.
You won’t have to walk far for the next view, which is at Richter’s Burger Co. This restaurant offers similar views of the lagoon, but with the bonus of air conditioning and a Frisco Shake.
Central Park
This one was featured in our Best Photo Spots article — but it gets honorable mention here, too! Central Park is a beautiful place to take a breather (and let the little ones blow off some steam, if you’ve brought them along) with a beautiful backdrop. There are benches and a big patch of grass to sit on and take in the sights and sounds of Universal Studios Florida.
Universal Volcano Bay
Krakatau
One of my favorite hidden gems at Universal Volcano Bay involves paying a visit to Krakatau, the spirit of the volcano. Did you know you can actually explore inside the volcano? One of my favorite views in the water theme park is this landing as you’re heading into the caverns. You get an awesome view of Waturi Beach from here!
Cabanas
It’s always been my dream to book an upper-level cabana at Volcano Bay, like this one located in the Wave Village. All of our cabanas — available to rent for an additional fee — offer amazing views, and they come with pretty sweet perks, too, like a special food menu and complimentary locker and towel service.
Dancing Dragons Boat Bar
Four words; say them, and I’m yours. Dancing Dragons Boat Bar. I think this picture speaks for itself, but in case it doesn’t, I’ll speak, too: sitting on a barstool, enjoying a cold beverage, overlooking Waturi Beach is truly life-changing.
Must try (if you’re 21+): the Volcano Bay Rum Punch and Wai-Watermelon. Thank me later!
Universal CityWalk
The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium and Savory Feast Kitchen
Another addition to my hidden gem list is found by heading to the second floor of The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium and Savory Feast Kitchen. Here, you can gaze out of the windows upon the skyline of Universal CityWalk through panoramic windows.
The Cowfish
I’m always internally screaming with delight when I get to sit on the patio at The Cowfish. I love watching the sun set and all the bright lights of CityWalk turn on as the day turns to night. It’s also the perfect place to people-watch, which is one of my favorite theme park activities.
Universal Orlando Resort Hotels
Bar 17 Bistro at Universal Aventura Hotel
It’s no surprise to see Bar 17 Bistro at Universal Aventura Hotel on my list — it does, after all, give you the most stunning, sprawling views of Orlando. And during the sunset? Don’t even get me started. Best of all, you can enjoy it with a delicious plate of parmesan fries. If you’re sensing a theme, it’s that a view is always made better when it includes French fries.
The only way to beat an evening at Bar 17 is when you get to roll your French fry-filled self into the elevator and down to your deluxe room. I love windows as much as I love fries, and this room is chock-full of them.
Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
There’s a reason everyone who stays at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel is living la dolce vita — the good life — and it’s because they get to start and end their days with this incredible view. Whether I’m arriving by car or taking our water taxi, the reveal of the perfectly picturesque bay gives me goosebumps every time.
Bar Helios at Universal Helios Grand Hotel
This is definitely a “last but not least” situation, because I’m not lying when I tell you tears escaped my eyes when I walked out on the patio at Bar Helios, located at Helios Grand Hotel. The height of this venue and proximity to Universal Epic Universe is the perfect formula for an incredible view. You can see the entirety of the new theme park from here, and it’s a prime opportunity for unique sights you can’t find anywhere else.
And that ends the list of my top-favorite views at Universal Orlando Resort! Do you agree with me, or do you have any secret spots I might not know about yet? Let me know in the comments below!
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