Planning Your First Trip to Universal Orlando: Everything You Need to Know
**Epic Universe** – a brand new park opens at Universal Orlando on May 22nd. It will include 5 immersive worlds, including Super Nintendo World, Harry Potter’s Ministry of Magic, Islands of Berk, Dark Universe and Celestial Park. It will have many new ground breaking roller coasters and shows. It’s sure to be a huge hit with families and theme park lovers! Get ready to enter the portals yourself!
To get started in planning your Universal Trip, you need to pick a resort and decide on how many days you want in the park.
Resort
For those on a budget, I am partial to the Dockside Inn and Suites, a great laid back atmosphere with 2 beautiful pools. The 2 bedroom suite with 3 queen beds is perfect for larger families on a budget. There is an onsite cafeteria for all your food and drink needs. You will board a bus for a quick ride to the parks!
For those looking for a more luxurious option, I highly recommend the Royal Pacific Resort Club Level. You can walk or take a water taxi to the park and it comes with Express Passes. The Club Level allows you access to a special lounge open for complimentary breakfast, water bottles, drinks and snacks throughout the day. This resort also has amazing restaurants and is walkable to other resorts and you can choose where to pool hop!
There are many more resorts to choose from - something for each budget!
How many park days?
At least 3 days – 1 for each park. I highly recommend park to park tickets that allows you to ride the Hogwarts Express between Universal Orlando and Islands of Adventure, and go between those two parks. Epic Universe is at a different location and currently does not allow park to park ticket options.
Other things to do while at Universal Orlando
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CityWalk: An area with many restaurants and shopping. Restaurants include Margaritaville, BigFire and BubbaGumps. My personal favorite is Toothsoome, with its steampunk vibe and amazing food and specialty cocktails.
-Volcano Bay: Add in a day at this amazing waterpark. From a “not so lazy” river to awesome water rides, this is a great way to spend an additional day in the area.
-Halloween Horror Nights: Going in September or October? Take advantage of the after hours event with Haunted Houses, shows and the opportunity to ride you favorite rides at low waits.
Why book with Northcutt Travel Agency?
When you book your Universal Orlando vacation with Northcutt Travel Agency, it includes Early Entry to the park. Take advantage of this for low waits to the most popular rides, like Hagrid’s Magical Motorbike Adventure and Velocicoaster. Your travel agent can help plan your park days and give you insider tips from someone who has been there!
Michelle@travelnta.com