Best time to visit

Arriving right when the parks open is your best bet for beating the crowds and the heat. Early mornings offer shorter wait times for popular rides, more breathing room, and a chance to squeeze in big-ticket attractions before the midday rush.
If your schedule is flexible, plan your visit on a weekday, especially Tuesday through Thursday. These days tend to be much quieter than weekends, giving you more time to explore and less time waiting in lines.
Peak season, including summer break, spring break, and the winter holidays, brings the biggest crowds and longest wait times. If you’d rather enjoy a more laid-back experience, aim for the slower months like late January through early March or late August through early October.
Visiting during a special event season like Halloween Horror Nights or the Holidays at Universal gives you access to special attractions like spooky mazes, dazzling decorations, and themed treats.

How to get there

By bus: Lynx bus routes 38, 8, 37, and 42 all serve the Universal Studios Orlando area. Route 38 runs every 30 mins and drops you off right near the entrance.
By car: Driving is easy thanks to clear signage and direct highway access. Take I-4 and use Exit 75A if you're coming from the east or Exit 74B if you're approaching from the west. From there, just follow the signs to the resort entrance. Paid parking is available onsite.
By shuttle bus/boat: Those staying at Universal’s on-site hotels can take advantage of complimentary transportation options, including regular shuttle buses and scenic water taxis. These services run frequently throughout the day and drop you off right at park.

Parking facilities

Parking for Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay are all accommodated in the Universal Studios Orlando parking lot. Epic Universe has a separate parking and entrance at 1001 Epic Blvd (Find on Maps).

General Parking: $30 per vehicle
Prime Parking: between $50 and $60, depending on the season and crowd levels
Valet Parking: starts at $30 for 2 hours and goes up to $75 for full-day
RV/Bus Parking: $40 daily

Know before you go

Lockers: Lockers are available both at the entrance and near major thrill rides, so you can stash your bags before hopping on.
Wi-Fi: You’ll find free Wi-Fi throughout all the parks and CityWalk, making it easy to stay connected or share those selfies.
First Aid: First Aid stations are located in all 4 parks in case you need any medical assistance during your visit.
Lost & Found: Lost something along the way? The Lost & Found is centrally located near the CityWalk security area, so it’s easy to check in and retrieve your item.

If you or someone in your group needs mobility support, you’re covered. Wheelchair rentals and ECVs (Electric Convenience Vehicles) are available right at park entrances.
Most rides offer separate mobility entrances, and the team is always happy to help if you need assistance getting on or off.
Some attractions have transfer devices, while others may let you stay in your wheelchair, just check with a staff member at the ride.
Need a little extra support? Visual and hearing assistance devices are also available, just ask the staff when you arrive.

If you’re visiting with little ones, the Child Swap program is a lifesaver. It lets one parent ride while the other waits with the kids, then you switch without waiting in line again.
For toddlers who aren’t quite ready for the big thrills, there are dedicated play zones like If I Ran the Zoo in Islands of Adventure, where they can run, climb, and explore.
Keep in mind that each ride has its own height requirement, which is clearly posted at the entrance. It’s a good idea to check those ahead of time so there are no surprises.
And when it’s time for a break, you’ll find diaper-changing stations and nursing rooms available throughout all the parks to make things more comfortable for families.

Outside food and beverages are not allowed inside the parks, although exceptions are made for medical needs and baby food.
If you’re planning to wear a costume, keep in mind that this is only permitted for children under 13 years.
Smoking is only allowed in designated areas throughout the resort, so be sure to look for the signs if you need to step away.
Pets aren’t allowed inside the parks, except for service animals, which are welcome to accompany you.

Universal Studios Florida: For a fun and immersive meal, head to Krusty Burger in Springfield, where you can enjoy classic American-style burgers inspired by The Simpsons. Another standout is the Leaky Cauldron in Diagon Alley, offering British pub favorites in a magical Harry Potter setting.
Islands of Adventure: Mythos Restaurant is a must-visit for its cave-like ambiance and delicious Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Don’t miss the chance to grab a refreshing Butterbeer at the Three Broomsticks in Hogsmeade.
Volcano Bay: Whakawaiwai Eats serves up island-themed quick bites that are perfect for refueling between water rides. For tropical cocktails and light fare, check out Kohola Reef, where the vibe is relaxed and beachy.
Epic Universe: Dine at a Super Nintendo World-themed Toadstool Cafe and at monster-inspired eateries, like Spit Fyre Grill and Hiccup’s Hearth, that will transport you into the worlds of your favorite characters with every bite.
CityWalk: Try Bigfire, a steakhouse known for its wood-fired dishes, or indulge your sweet tooth at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium, famous for decadent desserts and creative drinks.

Kennedy Space Center: Just about an hour from Universal Orlando, the Kennedy Space Center offers a look at NASA’s space missions. You can walk under real rockets, meet astronauts, and even experience a simulated shuttle launch.
Madame Tussauds Orlando: At Madame Tussauds, you can snap selfies with incredibly lifelike wax figures of celebrities, athletes, and superheroes. It's a fun and interactive stop for families and pop culture fans.
Gatorland: Known as the "Alligator Capital of the World," Gatorland gives you a look at the wilder side of Florida with family-friendly wildlife encounters like live gator shows and the Screamin’ Gator Zip Line.
WonderWorks Orlando: Step into an upside-down building filled with hands-on science exhibits, laser tag, a ropes course, and a 6D motion ride. WonderWorks is a totally mind-bending experience.
ICON Park Orlando: ICON Park is a lively entertainment complex just minutes from Universal, featuring the famous 400-foot Wheel, SEA LIFE Aquarium, restaurants, and boutique shops.

Visitor tips

Download the Universal Orlando app to check ride wait times, access park maps, use mobile food ordering, and manage your tickets all in one place.
If you're planning to visit more than one park, multi-park package tickets are the best way to experience Universal Studios. They allow access to 2 or more parks across 1, 2 or 3 days.
Consider staying at a Universal Orlando hotel since in-house guests enjoy Early Park Admission to select rides and attractions before the general public enters.
Bring a poncho or lightweight rain jacket, especially during summer. Florida’s sudden downpours don’t last long, but they can soak you in minutes.
Stay hydrated throughout the day. Most quick-service dining spots will give you a free cup of ice water if you ask.
Take advantage of Child Swap and Single Rider lines to reduce wait times. These options are great for groups with younger kids or solo visitors.

Frequently asked questions about visiting Universal Studios Orlando

Can I visit all 4 Universal Orlando parks in one day?

You can definitely cover 2 parks in a day if you plan it out, but 4 parks will be too much of a stretch. If you’ve only got a day, book a park-to-park ticket that gives you access to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure which are both connected by the Hogwarts Express for fast and fun transportation between parks.

How many days do I need to explore all Universal Studios Orlando parks?

Plan for at least 3-4 full days to cover all parks comfortably. If you’re doing 3 days, combine Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure in 1 of the 3 days. If you’re doing 4 days, you can comfortably visit 1 park-per-day.

Which Universal Orlando park should I visit first?

If you're into movie-themed attractions and live shows, start with Universal Studios Florida. For thrill rides and Harry Potter fans, Islands of Adventure is perfect. Volcano Bay is great for a relaxing day at the water park. Epic Universe is ideal for those seeking next-gen immersive lands.

Is Express Pass worth it?

Yes, the Express Pass is absolutely worth it, especially if you’re visiting on a weekend, during holidays, or peak season. It lets you skip the regular lines at most rides and attractions, potentially saving you up to 4 hours (or more) across the day. You can fit in more rides, shows, and meals without feeling rushed. If you're only visiting for a day or want to experience as much as possible, it's a solid investment.

Are there free shuttles between parks?

Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay are all connected via CityWalk. Walking is the fastest way. Volcano Bay also offers shuttle service from parking. Epic Universe is located at a farther distance and you will have to drive down to the park itself for access.

Do Universal parks offer stroller rentals?

Yes, single and double strollers are available near park entrances for a fee.

Are there water rides and how wet do you get?

Yes, especially at Islands of Adventure. Expect to get soaked on rides like Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls and Jurassic Park River Adventure. Don’t worry, lockers and drying stations are nearby.