best time of year to visit universal studios orlando

What is the Best Time to Visit Universal Studios Orlando?

Universal Studios Orlando is a globally popular vacation destination. You’re guaranteed to have fun wherever you go. One thing you must be prepared for, though, is the massive crowds.

Every year throughout the seasons, the park attracts many visitors from all over the world. This being the case, you might ask when the best time to visit Universal Studio Orlando is.

The best approach to this depends on what you want to achieve from your visit. Do you want to avoid the crowds, or are is your interest in getting the lowest prices ? This article will answer that question and help you pick the best time to go to Universal Studios.

The Quietest Times at Universal Studios

Maybe your aim is to avoid the large crowds that come during peak seasons like summer. Avoiding the crowds also means cutting down on the high price tags that are characteristic of such seasons. In this case, the best time to visit is when schools are in session.

It’s also best to avoid visiting during national holidays like Christmas or New Year. The quiet months at Universal Studios include the following.

Most schools open by the first week of January. Not many parents will be thinking of spending money on vacation activities during this time. The focus would be on meeting school-related costs.

January is also the coldest month in Orlando and there are fewer tourists at the parks. The price of accommodation is also lower, cutting down your budget significantly.

Early February

The quiet season in January runs through the first few days of February. Shortly after comes the UK midterm that brings with it the Mardi Gras festival in Universal Studios. This is a period marked with large crowds.

April to May

Another ideal period to visit Universal Studios Orlando is between April and May. You’re likely to get the best low-season perks as long as you avoid any seasonal school holidays. It’s referred to as the “shoulder season,” bordering the end of the low season and the beginning of the peak period.

September to November

This is another shoulder season in Universal Studios and a fantastic time to visit. However, unlike the April to May period, the weather can be hot and rainy. Schools are open, and there won’t be much stress getting from one point to another.

The good thing with Universal Studios during the rainy season is that most of the rides are indoors. There are also plenty of other indoor spots to go to if you want to avoid the rain. The holidays to avoid during this period are the UK’s half-term break, Fall Break, Thanksgiving, and Halloween.

Holidays at Universal Orlando

New year’s eve.

New Years Eve is one of the busier days during the year (if not the busiest) to visit Universal Orlando. Crowds are at the highest as guests pack the parks to celebrate the new year. Universal puts on a party like no other and because of this both parks tend to reach capacity.

Unless you really love big crowds and long lines, skip New Years Even and look for something right after the holidays.

Christmas Time

The last two weeks of December are extremely busy at Universal Studios. School is out and everyone is looking to vacation somewhere. The theme parks are no exception. One of the biggest draws is the Holiday celebration put on by the parks, particularly Harry Potter.

Both Harry Potter lands are very festive from costumes and decorations to sweet treats and entertainment. These are the two biggest draws to Universal. Be prepared for large crowds and long waits. We highly recommend getting Front of the Line Pass for these dates.

The Best Days to Visit Universal Studios

Are you interested in knowing the specific best days to visit Universal Studios? This section can help with that. As such, it can be easy to plan your time and enjoy the experience during the visit.

  • January 7-10, 13-19, and 27-31 are the best days to be at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter
  • February 1-13, 18-28
  • April 26- May 1
  • The whole of August
  • October apart from dates 10-12 and 24
  • All of November apart from dates 8, 14, and the last week of Thanksgiving
  • December 1-4, 6-11 to avoid the period around Christmas and New Year’s Eve

Most of these dates are projected to have fewer crowds. They also attract lower prices.

The Cheapest Time to Go to Universal Studios

You’re probably looking for the best time to visit Universal Studios Orlando from a cost perspective. The cost usually goes down when the park is least crowded.

The best times to visit on a tight budget are:

  • August through September
  • January through February

You can also check with your travel agent to see if there are any exclusive deals outside these periods. If you’re traveling with children, the only downside is that they may have to miss school during these times.

The Best Time to Visit Depending on Weather Conditions

One of the factors that influences the decision to take a vacation is the weather. This is especially true where children are concerned. For Universal Studios Orlando, visitors can take advantage of the heated water throughout the year.

You won’t have to worry about the cold season as the place stays well-heated. Taking a vacation when the temperatures are soaring high can be uncomfortable given Volcano Bay is close nearby.

The best place to plan a visit to Universal Studios would hence be during the shoulder seasons. Specifically, the shoulder season is in the weeks between the end of April and early May.

Mid October to December would also be another ideal period to visit. The weather is comfortable and there’s also a smaller crowd to grapple with.

Best Times to Visit During Special Events

Universal Studios hosts some special holiday events each year. Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, for example, is one occasion you should plan to visit. There are also several other fun events where you can experience maximum fun.

These have been chosen based on the lowest crowds.

  • Halloween Horror nights that fall anywhere between September 10-13, 16-20, 23-27, or 30
  • October 1-4, 7-11, 14-18, 21-25, and 27-31 and November 1
  • Christmas and New Year is marked with special events like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Grinchmas, and Macy’s Holiday Parade
  • Weekdays in November and December except the Thanksgiving week

Overall, the best time to visit Universal Studios Orlando is when the weather is cooler and the crowds are fewer. Additionally, be on the lookout for special events hosted at the part in October, November, March, and December.

Final Thoughts

The best time to visit Universal Studios Orlando depends on whether you want to avoid the crowds or save money. It may also be determined by the periods that the park offers special events with themes around holiday seasons. A combination of all these factors would make for the perfect trip to this theme park.

The best approach is to avoid the months when schools are on holiday. You also want to avoid summer when the temperatures are high, Spring Break, Easter, and the Christmas period. The essential thing is to ensure you make the most out of your visit regardless of the season.

best time of year to visit universal studios orlando

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Best Time To Visit Orlando Universal Studios: A Guide to Planning Your Trip

Orlando’s Universal Studios is a popular destination for tourists all year round, but the best time to visit the park can depend on a variety of factors. Visitors will want to consider factors like weather, crowds, and park hours when planning their trip to Universal Studios Orlando.

Crowds of excited visitors fill the colorful streets of Universal Studios Orlando, enjoying thrilling rides and attractions under the bright Florida sun

For those looking to avoid crowds, the best time to visit Universal Studios Orlando is typically during the off-season, which is generally January to mid-February and early December. However, visitors should also take into account holidays and school breaks, as these times tend to be busier.

Another important factor to consider when planning a trip to Universal Studios Orlando is the weather. Orlando tends to be hot and humid, with occasional thunderstorms and hurricanes during the summer months. Visitors may want to consider visiting during the spring or fall, when temperatures are more mild and rainfall is less frequent. Overall, careful planning can make a big difference in the quality of a visit to Universal Studios Orlando.

Optimal Seasons for Visiting

Bright sun shines over Universal Studios Orlando, with clear blue skies and lush greenery. A gentle breeze blows through the air, creating a perfect setting for a visit

When planning a trip to Universal Orlando, it’s important to consider the best time to visit . The optimal season for visiting depends on several factors, such as weather, crowd levels, and special events.

Winter: Off-Peak Advantages

Travelers looking to avoid the crowds and take advantage of lower hotel rates should consider visiting Universal Orlando during the winter months, particularly in January and February. While the weather can be cooler, it’s generally mild and pleasant, making it a great time to enjoy outdoor activities. Additionally, the holiday crowds have subsided, making it easier to navigate the parks and enjoy shorter wait times.

Spring: Events and Moderate Crowds

Spring is a popular time to visit Universal Orlando, with moderate crowds and a variety of events taking place. Mardi Gras, Easter, and Spring Break are all happening during this time, so it’s important to plan accordingly. April and May are also great months to visit, with mild weather and fewer crowds than the summer months.

Summer: Peak Season Insights

Summer is peak season at Universal Orlando, with crowds and temperatures both reaching their highest levels. June, July, and August are the busiest months, and visitors should expect long lines and wait times. However, the parks stay open later during the summer, allowing visitors to enjoy the rides and attractions well into the evening.

Fall: Special Events and Weather Considerations

Fall is a great time to visit Universal Orlando, with fewer crowds and special events taking place. Halloween Horror Nights, Thanksgiving, and Christmas are all happening during this time, so visitors should plan accordingly. Additionally, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, making it a great time to enjoy outdoor activities.

Overall, the best time to visit Universal Orlando depends on the traveler’s preferences and priorities. Visitors should consider factors such as weather, crowds, and special events when deciding on the optimal season to visit. By doing so, they can ensure a memorable and enjoyable trip to one of the world’s most popular theme parks.

Ticketing and Accommodation Strategies

Guests line up at ticket counters, while others check in at the hotel reception. The sun sets over the Universal Studios theme park, casting a warm glow on the bustling scene

Understanding Ticket Options and Pricing

When planning a trip to Universal Orlando Resort, it is important to understand the various ticket options and pricing. Park tickets can be purchased for one, two, three, four, or five days, and there are also options for park-to-park tickets. Prices for tickets vary depending on the time of year and the type of ticket purchased.

In addition to park tickets, guests can also purchase Express Passes. These passes allow guests to skip the regular lines at most attractions, which can be a huge time-saver. However, Express Passes can be expensive, so it is important to weigh the cost against the potential benefits.

Choosing the Right Hotel and Package

Choosing the right hotel and package can also be an important part of planning a trip to Universal Orlando Resort. There are several on-site hotels to choose from, including the Hard Rock Hotel, Portofino Bay, Royal Pacific, and Cabana Bay Beach. Each hotel offers its own unique amenities and benefits, so it is important to research each one to find the best fit for your needs.

Guests who stay at one of the on-site hotels can also take advantage of Universal Express, which allows them to skip the regular lines at most attractions. This can be a huge time-saver, especially during peak season.

When booking a package, it is important to consider the availability of off-season and peak season rates. Off-season rates can be significantly lower than peak season rates, so it may be worth considering a trip during the off-season if budget is a concern.

Overall, understanding ticket options and pricing, as well as choosing the right hotel and package, can help make a trip to Universal Orlando Resort a success. By doing some research and planning ahead, guests can ensure they get the most out of their trip to this popular Orlando theme park.

Frequently Asked Questions

A sunny day at Universal Studios Orlando, with families and friends enjoying the rides and attractions. The park is bustling with excitement and laughter

What months typically see fewer crowds at Universal Studios Orlando?

As a general rule of thumb, January, February, August, and September are the best months to visit Universal Studios Orlando if you want to avoid the crowds. During these months, the parks are typically less busy, and you can enjoy shorter wait times for rides and attractions.

During which season can visitors expect the best weather for a trip to Universal Studios Florida parks?

The best time to visit Universal Studios Orlando in terms of weather is during the winter months, from December to February. The weather is mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the low 70s. However, keep in mind that this is also the peak season for tourists, so the parks may be more crowded.

How do Universal Orlando ticket prices fluctuate throughout the year?

Ticket prices at Universal Orlando vary depending on the time of year. The parks offer different ticket options, including one-day, two-day, and multi-day passes. Ticket prices are typically higher during peak season, which includes holidays and summer months. You can save money by purchasing tickets in advance or by taking advantage of special promotions and deals.

Is there a particular day of the week that is ideal for visiting Universal Studios to avoid long lines?

Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends at Universal Studios Orlando. If you want to avoid long lines, it’s best to visit the parks on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday. You can also take advantage of the park’s Early Park Admission program, which allows guests to enter the park one hour before it opens to the public.

When are the operating hours for Universal Studios Orlando most extended?

Universal Studios Orlando typically extends its operating hours during peak season, which includes holidays and summer months. During these times, the parks may stay open until midnight or later. However, it’s always a good idea to check the park’s website or app for the most up-to-date information on operating hours.

What are some tips for finding the most cost-effective times to visit Universal Studios Orlando?

To find the most cost-effective times to visit Universal Studios Orlando, it’s important to plan ahead and do your research. Look for special promotions and deals on the park’s website or social media channels. Consider visiting the parks during the off-season when ticket prices are lower. You can also save money by staying at a hotel near the parks and taking advantage of shuttle services or public transportation.

best time of year to visit universal studios orlando

Hey there, I'm Robyn and I'm a travel enthusiast and the writer behind this website. With a passion for adventure, I've been traveling and sharing my experiences for as long as I can remember.

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Best Times to Visit Universal Orlando

by Professor Heather | Aug 10, 2022 | News |

best time of year to visit universal studios orlando

You are ready to explore the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and all the fun at the Universal Orlando Resort. However, you need to decide – when is the best time to go? Here, we break it down for you and explore the best times to visit the Universal Orlando Resort.

First of all, it’s important to keep in mind that this is a loaded question because any time of the year is a great time to visit for different reasons. However, there are fun events and great perks to visiting during certain times of the year. In addition, weather and crowds may also play a role in your decision of when to visit.

Each spring, Mardi Gras comes to Universal Studios Florida. This event typically starts in early February and runs into April. It features street performers, a spectacular parade, amazing food options, and the biggest names performing live in concert on select nights! The best part is that all the festivities are included with your theme park admission! You may even get the opportunity to ride on a parade float!

We love visiting during this time of year because this event is SO much fun! The highlight of this event is, of course, the Mardi Gras Parade! Make sure you line up early for the best view! You will find a whole line-up of festive performers in gorgeous costumes. The theme changes each year and the floats are always outstanding!

In previous years, guests have been able to purchase a lanyard that allows them to try the different food options throughout the event. There are food kiosks throughout the park, inspired by various regions around the world. The live entertainment is always a highlight too! In previous years, bands such as Styx, LL Cool J, and Marshmello have all performed and again, these concerts are all included with admission!

In addition, the weather is usually very nice. Plan to wear layers in February and March, especially in the evening.

Fall & Halloween Horror Nights

Halloween Horror Nights 101 - Complete Guide

Photo Courtesy: Universal Orlando

Each fall, it’s time for the spooky season at Universal Orlando Resort! At Universal Studios, Halloween Horror Nights is a popular event that takes place on select nights through Halloween. The event typically starts in early September and features plenty of opportunities for screams!

This year, there are 10 haunted houses, 5 scare zones, and 2 live shows. In addition, find themed food and drinks and special merchandise. Plus, some of the park’s best attractions are open during the event too!

For those who love all things Halloween, there are event special hotel packages, event add-ons, and multi-night tickets.

As you prepare for your scary experience, you should also prepare for the weather. During this time of year, it’s often still quite hot during the day and into the evening. As you get closer to Halloween, the evenings may get a little cooler. Please note that this event occurs rain or shine and there are no refunds.

We love this event because it’s the perfect way to celebrate the fall season and Halloween.  The themes of the Haunted Houses change each year and it’s very exciting to see the big reveal! This is a specially ticketed event that takes place during the evening hours and is not recommended for children under 13 years of age, as it may be too intense. It’s a fun option for a group of friends or even a date night!

If you are not planning to head to Halloween Horror Nights, Universal’s Islands of Adventure remains open for all guests. Make sure that you purchase a park-to-park ticket so that you can enjoy Universal Studios during the day and ride the Hogwarts Express over to Hogsmeade in the evening.

If you are a fan of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter , you don’t want to miss the nighttime entertainment! As darkness falls, look around to witness the darker side of magic! The Dark Arts at Hogwarts TM Castle takes place on select nights during the fall and features Dementors TM , Death Eaters TM , and even Lord Voldemort TM himself!

Grinchmas

Holidays at Universal Orlando

The Holiday season at Universal Orlando may just be this Professor’s favorite time to visit! From Christmas in the Wizarding World to Grinchmas and all the festivities in between, you won’t want to miss it! Let’s explore a few of the highlights of visiting during this time of year.

Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter TM

There are festivities across the Wizarding World, in both Diagon Alley TM and Hogsmeade TM .

In Diagon Alley TM , sip on hot Butterbeer TM as you listen to seasonal tunes by Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees and wander the streets to explore the festively-decorated shops.

In Hogsmeade, be sure to stop and watch the Frog Choir as they celebrate the holiday season with festive tunes. Then, as night falls, make sure you stop and enjoy “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts TM ”.

Grinchmas TM

Head over to Seuss Landing to enjoy festive décor and a little bit of mischief! Chat with the residents of Whoville and watch musical performances. Then, don’t miss the fun of The Grinchmas TM Who-liday Spectacular, a live re-telling of how the Grinch stole Christmas. There is even a photo opportunity with the Grinch himself so be ready with your most mischievous smile!

Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s

Find a spot along the streets in Universal Studios to watch this magical parade filled with larger-than-life balloons and floats filled with some of your favorite characters! Wave to Shrek, the Minions, and more during this festive celebration. It’s a grand finale too when Santa Claus joins the celebration!

Other Favorite Times

There are a few other times of the year that we especially love to visit the Universal Orlando Resort. These other two options are largely due to the crowds and the weather during the time of year.

In January, the weather in central Florida can be a little unpredictable but if you are looking to avoid the heat, this is a great option! Be prepared with layers but in general, it’s a great time to visit! In addition to cooler temperatures, the crowds are often lower as kids return back to school from the holiday season.

In May, the weather is quite a bit warmer but also gorgeous! Typically, there are not the crowds that you will see during spring break or the summer months. It is certainly warm enough to take advantage of the water rides or pool time. However, it’s generally not as hot as it is during the peak summer months!

Are you ready to head to Universal Orlando? There’s really not a bad time to go, especially if you are using a travel advisor to help you navigate and plan!

If you love following along for the most up-to-date park information and news, follow us on Instagram too: @ themeparkprofessor

best time of year to visit universal studios orlando

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The Best Time To Visit Universal Studios Orlando

The specific day of the week that you choose to visit the Universal Studios Orlando Resort can have a significant impact on how much you pay for park tickets and hotels, as well as how long you stand in line for the rides and attractions within the theme parks.

Typically the best day to go to Universal Studios Orlando is either Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday. Since the crowds are often higher over a weekend, many people choose to visit the resort for a long-weekend break .

However, there are a number of exceptions to this perhaps most notably being either special events or concerts taking place within the Universal Orlando Resort or on national holiday weekends such as Spring Break, Christmas and Thanksgiving.

The advice specified below applies to the Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure theme park and in select cases the Universal Studios Orlando Resort water park, Volcano Bay.

Best Days To Visit Universal Studios Orlando

What makes a great time to visit the Universal Orlando Resort is different for everyone.

Some are looking specifically for smaller crowds which often result in both shorter standby wait times and cheaper hotel prices.

Meanwhile, others aren’t as bothered about long lines and instead think the best days at Universal Studios are when incredible events are taking place or when the park is filled with themed decorations (i.e. Halloween Horror Nights or Christmas).

We personally believe that the best days to visit Universal Orlando are when the crowd levels are lower since this significantly reduces the amount of time you’ll have to wait in line for rides within the park.

Time Of Year

The time of year you visit the Universal Orlando Resort is going to have the most significant impact on the park crowd levels.

The difference between visiting Universal Studios at the end of July to the middle of September is typically the difference between waiting 120 minutes for the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit or 35 minutes, or 80 minutes for the Hogwarts Express instead of 20 minutes.

As such, it’s easy to see how visiting during the ‘off-peak’ season can be an incredibly enjoyable experience.

While visiting on weekends and weekdays will still impact the crowd levels (more on that in a moment). This is isolated to the time of year.

Thankfully, based on historical data we know that the best time of year to visit the Universal Orlando Resort is;

  • Early February
  • Beginning of October

There are two caveats you’ll want to watch out for if you’re looking to visit the Universal Orlando Resort in September / the beginning of October.

The first is Halloween Horror Nights.

This special event begins in the middle of September and runs until the end of October.

On nights when this event takes place you’ll find the Universal Studios Florida theme park typically closes earlier (since this park is the hosting location of the event) and the resort is more crowded with guests specifically coming to experience HHN.

The second thing you’ll want to watch out for if you’re looking to visit the Universal Orlando Resort in September / the beginning of October is hurricane season.

Given that Universal Studios is in central Florida, the region does experience hurricanes and severe tropical storms between the latter half of August and the end of November.

Universal Studios did have to close the park in 2022 as a direct result of a hurricane which resulted in many guests having to reschedule their day at the parks or Universal Orlando vacation entirely.

As such, if you do find yourself visiting Universal Studios Orlando in September it’s well worth investing in quality travel insurance that will both protect you and reimburse you should you experience a hurricane, tropical storm, or any other situation during your trip.

Whether you visit the Universal Studios Orlando Resort on a weekend or a weekday is the second most influential factor on crowd levels within the theme parks.

Typically, the weekdays Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday are the quietest.

While Monday and Friday are still typically lower than the weekend, you may still find slightly higher crowd levels from those taking a long weekend.

However, there are some significant exceptions to this rule.

For example, Thanksgiving is one of the busiest times of the year at the Universal Studios Orlando Resort with both theme parks and even the Volcano Bay water park often reaching capacity by midday.

Of course, Thanksgiving takes place on a Thursday, so in this case, Thursday is a no-go if you’re looking to avoid the crowds.

The same goes for special events, if there’s a concert taking place either at the Universal Studios Florida theme park, inside the Hard Rock Café or at CityWalk then crowds will be higher since people will tie in a visit to one (or more) of the resorts theme parks with the concert experience.

As such, if that concert takes place on a Tuesday for example, then that Tuesday will more often than not be busier when compared to the average Tuesday for that time of year.

Worst (Busiest) Days To Visit Universal Studios Orlando

Much like what makes the best time to visit Universal Studios is different for everyone, so too is the worst time.

However, generally speaking, most people want to avoid the busiest time where you’ll often experience long wait times for the park’s most popular rides and higher prices for park tickets and hotels.

Visiting during these times can often see you waiting up to three hours for rides such as Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and the Revenge of the Mummy.

Meanwhile, you’ll find that hotel prices are typically 20% higher than usual, park tickets up to $50 more per person when compared to the cheapest time of the year and an increase in the cost of Universal Express Unlimited passes (circa $300 per person).

The factor that is going to have the most influence on crowd levels within the Universal Orlando Resort is the time of year in which you visit.

The special events, weather and day of the week you visit the resort’s theme parks are only set to make things either slightly better or slightly worse.

Based on historical data we know that the worst times to visit the Universal Orlando Resort are typically the summer months including;

  • Beginning of August

This is primarily due to;

  • Spring Break – This typically takes place in either March or April (the exact week varies between cities and states)
  • Easter – This annual holiday takes place in either March or April
  • School Summer Vacations – These typically occur between July and August (you’ll want to consider the US primarily, however, Canada and European school holidays also impact crowd levels given the park’s international popularity).
  • Thanksgiving – Celebrated on the fourth Thursday of every November.
  • Christmas – Universal decorates for Christmas straight after Halloween. The crowd levels inside the parks typically increase week by week leading up to Christmas.
  • New Year – The parks will remain busy after Christmas all the way through until the New Year. Typically turning into an off-peak season as the first Monday after the New Year begins.

While the time of year has the most significant impact on crowd levels, it’s likely not the only thing you’ll want to consider about the specific day(s) on which you visit the Universal Orlando Resort.

For example; the weather conditions in Orlando in March are very different to the weather conditions in Orlando in July.

In March, the weather is warm, and any rain showers are rare. However, in July, the weather is incredibly hot and humid to the point in which being outdoors for long periods of time can be incredibly painful or near impossible for some.

Special Events

There are two pre-planned special events that take place at Universal Studios Orlando every year that have an impact on the overall crowd levels within the park. These are;

  • Halloween Horror Nights – Which runs from the middle of September through until the end of October
  • Mardi Gras – This takes place from the middle of February until the middle of April

Of the two events, Halloween Horror Nights have a significantly higher impact on crowd levels, especially during the last two weeks of October.

While the Mardi Gras celebrations are a part of your admission into the Universal parks, Halloween Horror Nights are not. Instead, Halloween Horror Nights is a separately ticketed event.

This event takes place roughly 12 to 15 times between the middle of September and the end of October, with dates at the end of October often selling out.

Depending on your personal preferences visiting Universal Orlando in October could be fantastic – since you could buy an extra ticket and experience Halloween Horror Nights, or a burden – since the park will be more crowded.

Typically, families with young children are likely to find Halloween Horror Nights more of a burden, since the event isn’t suitable for them, yet they are still having to experience the impact of the event taking place.

Universal Studios recommends a minimum age of at least 11 years old for Halloween Horror Nights. However, we would recommend reading a number of independent reviews and watching some Youtube videos before committing to tickets if you’re looking to attend the event with children under the age of 16.

Meanwhile, families with older children, couples or groups of friends are typically going to love visiting the Universal Studios Resort at this time of year.

That’s because despite the extra crowds since there is an extra, unique experience to participate in (albeit a paid one in addition to your park ticket) that will likely appeal to them.

Regardless of the time of year you visit, you’ll still find that weekends are busier than weekdays.

Saturday and Sunday will be the worst, however, Monday and Friday will also have an uplift with many people taking long-weekends to visit the resort.

Of course during the peak season this only exasperates the amount you’ll pay for accommodation and Universal theme park tickets as well as how long you’ll queue for rides within the park.

If you’re visiting Universal during the peak-season then it’s highly recommended you try to avoid weekends in order to lower the impact the time of year you’re visiting has on your experience inside the park.

However, we appreciate that that’s not possible for everyone – including on occasion, ourselves.

As such we’ve put together a couple of notes based on our own experience as to how to overcome the crowds and still have a fantastic time even if you’re visiting at the ‘worst possible time’ .

Of course, the large crowds experienced during the peak season aren’t the only reason to avoid June through to the beginning of August as high temperatures and humidity make walking around the park and standing in line for long periods of time incredibly uncomfortable.

Of course, depending on your personal preferences you may want to choose to visit Universal Studios at the beginning of the year when you’re likely to avoid heavy rain and instead benefit from average daytime temperatures of 64f.

Meanwhile, if you’re a fan of themed events and happy to wear a rain poncho during rainy days at the park then you’ll likely be better off visiting between October and December where you’ll experience both Halloween and the holiday season decorations.

New Parks, Areas & Ride Openings

Another, albeit less frequent factor that can often severely impact the estimated crowd calendar for that particular year or time of year at Universal Studios Orlando is a new park, area or ride opening.

Depending on the size, anticipation and popularity of that particular attraction, you could find a general uplift in crowd levels for as long as two years.

However, it’s particularly going to be the first couple or weeks or first couple of months which will be the most significant.

As such it’s worth researching to find out if there’s anything major scheduled to open or that has just opened when you’re planning to visit the resort which may impact the crowd levels during your trip.

Some upcoming things we know of at the time of publishing;

Illumination’s Villain-con Minion Blast – Opening Summer 2023

The Despicable Me Minion Mayhem ride has been inside the Universal Studios Florida theme park since 2012.

Since then the Despicable Me franchise has gone on to have a number of successful sequels which has led the Universal Studios Florida theme park to increase their commitment to Gru and the gang.

As such, Production Central at the entrance of Universal Studios Florida is being transformed into Illumination Ave with an officially declared Minion Land.

Set to open in the Summer of 2023, Gru’s laboratory will be joined by a neighbouring attraction, Illumination’s Villain-con Minion Blast, and Minion Cafe, a new dining location.

While this is an exciting upgrade for Universal Studios Florida, it’s unlikely to have a significant impact on the park’s crowd levels for a significant amount of time.

Epic Universe – Opening 2025

The fourth theme park at Universal Orlando was first announced back in 2019 and has an estimated opening sometime in 2025.

The park is going be situated around 15 minutes drive south of the two current Universal Studios theme parks and Volcano Bay, closer to Universal’s Endless Summer Resort.

Aside from its location and estimated opening date, the announcements surrounding Epic Universe have been relatively vague.

However, despite this new theme park is likely to see a significant number of people visiting the Universal Orlando Resort in 2025 with many theme park fans likely putting off trips in 2024, in favour of seeing the new park just 12 months later.

What To Do If You Can Only Visit Universal Studios Orlando When It’s Busy?

We’ve visited all three Universal Studios theme parks during some of the busiest days of the year (multiple times) and have found that provided you’re prepared and plan ahead you can still have an incredible day!

But what does great planning and preparation for a trip to Universal Studios look like?

The best ways to

  • Checking the opening times during your visit online in advance
  • Checking which park(s) have early park admission during your trip –  where applicable
  • Deciding how you’re going to travel from your accommodation to the Universal Studios Florida parks
  • Reviewing the height restrictions for all rides
  • Understanding which parks you’re visiting
  • Deciding which rides and attractions are essential for your group
  • Confirming how many days you want to visit the resort for
  • Deciding whether or not you want to purchase a park-to-park ticket
  • Reviewing the most popular attractions and best rides before cross-referencing this with rides and experiences you’d most like to experience during your trip
  • Checking which rides have single rider lines –  and whether you’d be happy going in them
  • Purchasing your park tickets
  • Downloading the Universal Studios mobile application

However, if you have the budget then you may also want to consider enhancing your visit;

  • By staying on-site in a Universal Studios Resort hotel
  • By purchasing a Universal Studios Express Passes (or getting a complimentary pass by staying in a premier on-site hotel)
  • Getting a VIP tour around the parks

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best time of year to visit universal studios orlando

Universal Orlando Resort is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. It’s estimated that more than 20 million people per year visit the resort — which includes the Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure theme parks, the Volcano Bay water park, and the CityWalk shopping, dining and entertainment complex.

best time of year to visit universal studios orlando

If you’re planning to visit with your family, you might be wondering what time of year would be best to plan a trip.

Since crowd levels are a big factor for most people in determining the “best” time to go, we’re going to take a look at some of the slower times of year at Universal Orlando!

But first, a big caveat here: Crowd levels are unpredictable in Orlando. There’s no way to guarantee that a time that has been traditionally “slow” will be slow in any given year. New special events, large conventions coming to town, and discounts introduced by Universal could have an impact. And, since many people visit Walt Disney World during the same period they visit Universal, Disney World events and discounting can also effect the crowds.

Mid-January through Mid-February

The weeks around Christmas and New Year’s Day bring heavy crowds to Universal Studios, but once they die down and school is back in session, the crowds tend to slow.

best time of year to visit universal studios orlando

A couple of things to note here:

  • It can get surprisingly cold in January and February in Orlando. Believe it or not, residents will tell you they even tend to see a few snowflakes fall during this period every 3 or 4 years. If this is when you plan to travel, be sure to back some long pants and layers, because it could be in the 70s for a few days and then suddenly drop to a high of 45.
  • The Walt Disney World Marathon is usually held the weekend after New Year’s and is a very busy time — which means crowds tend to pick up that weekend at Universal Orlando, too. That’s why we suggest waiting until mid-January to go.
  • President’s Day Weekend in February tends to be the end of this winter “slow season.”

Last Week of February / First Week of March

After President’s Day Weekend and before Spring Break season starts, you will typically find another lull in Universal Orlando crowds.

best time of year to visit universal studios orlando

One thing to note here is our same caveat as above — it can be surprisingly cold occasionally in Orlando during this period, so be sure to pack some layers.

Late April / Early May

There is another “sweet spot” usually in between Spring Break/Easter and the end of the school year.

best time of year to visit universal studios orlando

A couple of things to keep in mind here:

  • When Easter falls each year is a big factor in when this slower season starts. If Easter comes early and happens in late March, most of April could be slow. Likewise, if Easter falls late into April, this slower period will fall later, since some public schools time their spring break around Easter each year rather than in a particular week of March.
  • Keep in mind that even if schools in your area remain in session until Memorial Day or later, schools in some parts of the U.S. start letting out in mid-May, so the “summer season” could come earlier than you expect.

Late August through Mid-November

Late summer and fall will be the longest period of time that will be “slow-ish,” if you will. If you haven’t already noticed, most of the times we are recommending are times when school is in session, and this recommendation is no different.

best time of year to visit universal studios orlando

But, but, but … we’ve got a long list of things to keep in mind if you choose to travel to Universal Studios during this season:

  • Hurricane season in Florida runs through Nov. 30th each year, and the season typically starts kicking up in mid-August through October. Is there a high likelihood that a hurricane will impact your vacation? No. But it IS possible, so it’s good to be aware of the cancellation policies of your airline, hotel and Universal Orlando travel package you booked. When a hurricane is going to hit Orlando, the parks are typically closed for a day or more.
  • Labor Day Weekend in September will most likely be busy.
  • The weekend around Indigenous Peoples Day in October will most likely be busy.
  • Halloween Horror Nights is a popular special event at Universal Studios Florida that happens on select nights in September and October. Keep in mind that the park will close early on the dates when the party is happening at night, so look those up and plan accordingly. Halloween Horror Nights is usually held Wednesday through Sunday nights in September and October.
  • The weekend around Veterans Day in November will likely be busy.

best time of year to visit universal studios orlando

That’s a look at the best time to go to Universal Studios! Are you planning a trip soon? Let us know in the comments!

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  • Best day of the week to visit Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay

What’s the best day of the week to visit Universal Orlando Resort? This might be the most popular question we’re asked by guests who are planning their vacations.

On this page, we will walk you through all the factors to consider in deciding when to visit, and we’ll also dispel some widespread misconceptions that might make the difference between an average trip and a truly fantastic vacation. We’ll run through every item in order, from most to least important, that will influence crowd levels and your ability to manage them at Universal Studios Florida , Islands of Adventure ,  The Wizarding World of Harry Potter , and Volcano Bay .

Skip to: Planning ahead  | Time of  year  | Special events  | Weather  | Arriving early/staying late  | Day of the week

Planning ahead

FACTOR: HUGE

The single biggest factor in ensuring that you have an enjoyable, positive experience at Universal Orlando is to plan ahead . The fact is, a surprising number of visitors do not plan their theme-park vacations beyond a rough sketch, and while it’s true that Universal is smaller, more compact, has fewer guests, and is less complicated to plan for than a jaunt to Walt Disney World Resort, the world-class attractions at Universal still draw immense crowds (particularly at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter).

Here is a quick example from the thousands of tips on our site, and it shows how a tiny bit of planning can be a huge help. On a typical moderate-to-busy day at Universal, this is what the line to buy tickets looks like at the entrance to Islands of Adventure:

That’s an hour wait, just to buy tickets and to get inside the turnstiles.

It is so easy to skip that line – all you have to do is purchase your tickets in advance. But get this: if you buy your admission beforehand, you also save money off the gate price on any multi-day pass. A typical family can easily save $80 or more getting their tickets in advance,  and they get to skip that crazy line pictured above!

Here’s a little more: purchasing in advance doesn’t mean you have to get your passes weeks ahead of time. You could be standing in the line pictured above, hop on your phone, and buy your tickets from an authorized seller (which counts as an advance purchase). You’ll save money, and you can get out of that huge line and use the electronic will-call kiosks to quickly print your admission.

That’s one tiny example of how you can save time and money – and have a better vacation – by doing your homework. We have so much more expert advice that we’re excited to share in the OI Universal Center !

Choosing the right time of year

FACTOR: VERY BIG

The second-largest variable that will affect crowds is the season you are visiting. There is a reason that, on some days, Universal’s theme parks are only open until 7:00 pm and Express Passes are only $70, while, on other days, the parks are open until 10:00 pm and Express access is $169. Additionally, theme-park attendance is seasonal and this should be taken into consideration when deciding whether or not Express Passes would be a good investment for your family. (Pro tip: Staying at select Universal Orlando Resort hotels automatically grants members in your party Express Passes.)

If you’re buying a single-day pass, you’ll first need to know which day of the year you’ll be visiting Universal Orlando – the resort moved to date-based ticket pricing in August 2020, which means each of those 365 days can potentially have a different price tag. And if you’re angling for a multi-day ticket, you’ll still need to know the starting date of your trip, although the subsequent days won’t likewise be tied to specific dates (you’ll just have a general window of time to finish using up your pass).

(Is it impossible to tie your vacation down to an exact date or date range? That’s no problem – for a little bit of a premium, Universal offers a Flexible Ticket, which is good for any time of the year.)

Luckily, when you go to buy your admission, the ticket retailer will walk you through the steps of selecting your (first) day, and you can look at different options to evaluate how the pricing affects your family. This is useful for our purposes here because how much that (first) day runs can give you an insight into the days that Universal thinks the crowds will be lower.

Interestingly, there’s a misconception that serves as a counterpoint to this factor: don’t automatically assume that coming at the slowest time of the year is the best plan . In our opinion, we think it is best to visit when the crowds are moderate; doing so will ensure that there are enough people around for there to be plenty of “excitement in the air,” and Universal’s unique brand of excitement is one of its incredible features. In addition, more guests usually mean longer operating hours, more open restaurants and kiosk options, and higher staffing for the parks.

All in all, the season you are planning to travel in will have a significant influence on crowd levels and your ability to have a good time. Be sure to check out our comprehensive guide on the subject , as well as our Universal crowd calendar and our in-depth breakdown of Express Passes , and pick the right time of the year for you.

Being aware of special events

FACTOR: BIG

Each year from mid-September through early November, Universal hosts its annual celebration of all things spooky and terrifying with Halloween Horror Nights . On various evenings throughout the week (typically, every night except for Monday and Tuesday), Universal Studios Florida closes early for this hard-ticketed event, where guests can explore haunted houses and be chased through the streets by chainsaw-wielding psychos. But besides their contents, what is particularly noteworthy about these fiendish festivities is their dates – right smack dab in the middle of what would otherwise have been a slow period for Orlando’s theme parks.

The lesson here is that you must take special events into consideration when planning your trip. In addition to Halloween Horror Nights, there is a whole host of other annual celebrations that occur every season; families who book their visits during these proceedings could be overwhelmed by busier-than-expected and early-closing parks. Similarly, continuing the Horror Nights example, a family of horror fans who didn’t know about the festivities may have scheduled their vacation in mid-November, only to find out that their horror-obsessed teens could have participated if they had planned their vacation just a few weeks earlier.

Some Universal events are bigger than others, and some may work to your benefit in terms of avoiding crowds – but you have to be aware of them to know how to plan appropriately. Consult our annual events section to find out what’s happening, and when, and – most importantly – how to use them to optimize your trip.

Planning for the weather

FACTOR: MODERATE

In Florida, the weather can change dramatically in very short periods. A heavy downpour in the middle of the day may clear out guests who either aren’t prepared for rain or who are ready to head out, resulting in lower crowds and wait times for the afternoon. Rain forecast for the entire day may prompt guests, especially locals, to choose a different date to visit.

It’s worth noting that, while most attractions at every Universal park continue to operate in light-to-moderate rain, a thunderstorm in the area requires outdoor rides – including practically all of Volcano Bay – to close until the storm has cleared the area. (Rainstorms have a particularly strong impact on crowd levels at Volcano Bay, where you’ll find – if you can time your visit to arrive just after the storm – significantly lower wait times.)

This is all to say: do not let a little rain in the forecast (or, even, rain predicted for the entire day) cause you to falter in your plans. Only all-day-long thunderstorms should give you pause and make you possibly rethink your theme-park plans. Visit our page on weather at Universal Orlando for average temperatures, rainfall, and more expert advice.

Arriving early and/or staying late

It doesn’t matter whether it’s the first day of July or the last day of February – theme parks are always busiest in the middle of the day. Even on a low-crowd day, if you arrive at the parks at 10:00 am and have to leave by 3:00 pm, you’re going to end up feeling like you hit a really busy day. That is why it’s always best, regardless of what other factors are involved, to get there early and/or stay late.

Luckily for guests staying at Universal Orlando hotels, you are a hop, skip, and a jump away from your room. This makes it so easy to tour the parks from opening until noon, take a break in the middle of the day to swim or nap, and then return to the parks from 4:00 pm to close.

Check out our Universal hotels section for so much more resort information. (And, if you’re interested in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, our ideal plan for seeing all of Harry’s wondrous world makes great use of this strategy.)

Selecting a day of the week

FACTOR: TINY

We have finally reached the factor that many guests think is the crucial item to beating the crowds.

We can’t tell you how many discussions we’ve read where first-time visitors to Universal ask, “What day of the week is the slowest?” thinking that this golden nugget of info is what they need to have a smooth day at the parks. While there are some theories out there about which day of the week is, indeed, the slowest at Universal Orlando Resort, the truth is that – after taking into consideration all the elements above – the day-of-the-week variable has a very small impact.

However, to answer the question to the best of our abilities, a common operating theory is that most families take a week-long vacation to Orlando, and that they start at Walt Disney World, leaving just a day or two at Universal for the end of their trip. If these families travel to Orlando on Saturday, they might take four days to cover the four parks at Disney, putting them at Universal by Thursday or Friday. Locals tend to visit on Saturdays, or when they’re not at school or work, bumping up the crowd levels on weekends and minor holidays.

But you, dear reader, now know that to chase the perfect day of the week is a fool’s errand. Armed with the planning advice in this guide, along with the 300+ pages of information in our OI Universal Center , you’ll likely have a great time, no matter what day you visit.

The bottom line is that if you have taken into consideration every other factor – planning ahead, choosing the right time of year, researching any special events, and getting there early and/or staying late – well, then you are in a better position than most other Universal guests. And that, our friends, is what will make the difference between the vacation of a lifetime and one you may regret.

OI Universal Center » The Script: TICKETS, PACKAGES, & PLANNING

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best time of year to visit universal studios orlando

Best Times to Visit Universal Orlando

by Kelly Greer Jul 21, 2023

You are ready to explore the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and all the fun at the Universal Orlando Resort. However, you need to decide – when is the best time to go? First of all, this is a loaded question because any time of the year is a great time to visit! Let’s break it down for you and explore the best times to visit the Universal Orlando Resort.

Each spring, Mardi Gras comes to Universal Studios Florida. This event typically starts in early February and runs into April. It features street performers, a spectacular parade, amazing food options, and the biggest names performing live in concert on select nights! The best part is that all the festivities are included with your theme park admission! You may even get the opportunity to ride on a parade float!

We love visiting during this time of year because this event is SO much fun! The highlight of this event is, of course, the Mardi Gras Parade! Make sure you line up early for the best view! You will find a whole line-up of festive performers in gorgeous costumes. The theme changes each year and the floats are always outstanding!

In previous years, guests have been able to purchase a lanyard that allows them to try different food options throughout the event. There are food kiosks throughout the park, inspired by various regions around the world. The live entertainment is always a highlight too! In previous years, bands such as Styx, LL Cool J, and Marshmello have all performed, and again, these concerts are all included with admission!

In addition, the weather is usually very nice. Plan to wear layers in February and March, especially in the evening.

Fall & Halloween Horror Nights

Best times to visit Universal Orlando Resort

Each fall, it’s time for the spooky season at Universal Orlando Resort! At Universal Studios, Halloween Horror Nights is a popular event that takes place on select nights through Halloween. The event typically starts in early September and features plenty of opportunities for screams!

This year, there are 10 haunted houses, 5 scare zones, and 2 live shows. In addition, find themed food and drinks and special merchandise. Plus, some of the park’s best attractions are open during the event too!

For those who love all things Halloween, there are event special hotel packages, event add-ons, and multi-night tickets.

As you prepare for your scary experience, you should also prepare for the weather. During this time of year, it’s often still quite hot during the day and into the evening. As you get closer to Halloween, the evenings may get a little cooler. Please note that this event occurs rain or shine and there are no refunds.

We love this event because it’s the perfect way to celebrate the fall season and Halloween.  The themes of the Haunted Houses change each year and it’s very exciting to see the big reveal! This is a specially ticketed event that takes place during the evening hours and is not recommended for children under 13 years of age, as it may be too intense. It’s a fun option for a group of friends or even a date night!

If you are not planning to head to Halloween Horror Nights, Universal’s Islands of Adventure remains open for all guests. Make sure that you purchase a park-to-park ticket so that you can enjoy Universal Studios during the day and ride the Hogwarts Express over to Hogsmeade in the evening.

If you are a fan of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, you don’t want to miss the nighttime entertainment! As darkness falls, look around to witness the darker side of magic! The Dark Arts at Hogwarts TM Castle takes place on select nights during the fall and features Dementors TM , Death Eaters TM , and even Lord Voldemort TM himself!

Holidays at Universal Orlando

best time of year to visit universal studios orlando

The Holiday season at Universal Orlando may just be this Professor’s favorite time to visit! From Christmas in the Wizarding World to Grinchmas and all the festivities in between, you won’t want to miss it! Let’s explore a few of the highlights of visiting during this time of year.

Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter TM

best time of year to visit universal studios orlando

There are festivities across the Wizarding World, in both Diagon Alley TM and Hogsmeade TM .

In Diagon Alley TM , sip on hot Butterbeer TM as you listen to seasonal tunes by Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees and wander the streets to explore the festively-decorated shops.

In Hogsmeade, be sure to stop and watch the Frog Choir as they celebrate the holiday season with festive tunes. Then, as night falls, make sure you stop and enjoy “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts TM ”.

Grinchmas TM

Best times to visit Universal Orlando Resort

Head over to Seuss Landing to enjoy festive décor and a little bit of mischief! Chat with the residents residents of Whoville and watch musical performances. Then, don’t miss the fun of The Grinchmas TM Who-liday Spectacular, a live re-telling of how the Grinch stole Christmas. There is even a photo opportunity with the Grinch himself so be ready with your most mischievous smile!

Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s

best time of year to visit universal studios orlando

Find a spot along the streets in Universal Studios to watch this magical parade filled with larger-than-life balloons and floats filled with some of your favorite characters! Wave to Shrek, the Minions, and more during this festive celebration. It’s a grand finale too when Santa Claus joins the celebration!

Other Favorite Times

There are a few other times of the year that we especially love to visit the Universal Orlando Resort. These other two options are largely due to the crowds and the weather during the time of year.

In January, the weather in central Florida can be a little unpredictable but if you are looking to avoid the heat, this is a great option! Be prepared with layers but in general, it’s a great time to visit! In addition to cooler temperatures, the crowds are often lower as kids return back to school from the holiday season.

In May, the weather is quite a bit warmer but also gorgeous! Typically, there are not the crowds that you will see during spring break or the summer months. It is certainly warm enough to take advantage of the water rides or pool time. However, it’s generally not as hot as it is during the peak summer months!

Are you ready to head to Universal Orlando? There’s really not a bad time to go, especially if you are using a travel advisor to help you navigate and plan!

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Contact your  Key to the World Travel®  advisor for your next trip, or send us a  quote request  to get started.

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best time of year to visit universal studios orlando

ThemeParkHipster

2024 Universal Studios Orlando Crowd Calendar: Avoid the Busy Days!

Did you know that there is a Universal Studios Orlando Crowd Calendar that can help you choose the best time to go?

You know there’s nothing I love more than giving you all the best tips and tricks for planning out the best theme park day ever.

From what to ride, to what to eat, we love to cover it all so that you can have the most memorable theme park experience possible!

So today, I’m excited to share with you some tips and tricks to consider in phase one of planning your theme park visit: when to actually go!  

Universal Orlando Resort Jurassic Park Velocicoaster at Night in Islands of Adventure. Keep reading to learn about the Universal Studios Crowd Calendar.

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS. PLEASE READ MY  DISCLOSURE  FOR MORE INFO.  Which means if you click on certain links, I may receive a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Best Time to Go to Universal Studios Florida at a Glance:

  • The best months to visit Universal Orlando Resort to avoid the crowds are: late-January and early-February
  • Your best days to visit Universal Orlando Resort are:  Tuesdays and Wednesdays
  • Be sure to avoid all major holidays such as:  Memorial Day,  4th of July , Labor Day Weekend,  Halloween ,  Thanksgiving Day , Christmas Eve, Christmas and New Year’s Eve

The Importance of Choosing the Best Day to Go to Universal Orlando Resort in 2024

As you already know, Universal Studios Orlando is no hidden secret. Plenty of families and individuals of all ages want to go and experience the fun for themselves.

Universal Orlando Resort Store Keep reading to learn about the Universal Studios Crowd Calendar 2024.

But unfortunately…this can lead to long wait times, overcrowding, and an overall less enjoyable experience.

Universal Studios guide and tips

To avoid all that, today we’re going to discuss the Universal Studios Orlando Crowd Calendar .

It’s a free, easy-to-use tool that will ensure you never have to wait longer than five minutes to get a Butterbeer ever again!

Get Your Universal Orlando Resort Tickets Today! CLICK HERE .

What is a Universal Studios Orlando Crowd Calendar, anyway?

If you’re not familiar with what a Universal Studios Orlando Crowd Calendar is, don’t sweat it!  I got you covered!

Universal Orlando best days to go infographic. Keep reading to learn about the Universal Studios Crowd Calendar 2024.

Basically, a this is a calendar that uses previous years’ data to predict theme park crowds ahead of time for different holidays, days of the week, times of year, etc.  

January 2024 Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar. Best Days to Go to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure

Why? Because, with this knowledge, you can better plan your visit to go on days with less people…because less crowds equals more enjoyment, and oftentimes, cheaper prices too!

March 2024 Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar. Best Days to Go to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure

ORDER NOW to secure your Orlando theme park ticket reservation in the parks! GET MY TICKETS.

How does the Universal Studios Orlando Crowd Calendar work?

Just like a normal calendar, every Universal Studios Orlando Crowd Calendar is designed differently.

Universal Orlando Resort Hogwarts Castle the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Islands of Adventure. Keep reading to learn about the Universal Studios Crowd Calendar.

However, they are essentially a calendar guiding you to see which exact days of the upcoming year will have heavy, light, or moderate attendance – so you can better plan your trip to be crowd-free.

May 2024 Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar. Best Days to Go to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure

And, since Universal Studios Orlando Crowd Calendars are packed with lots of helpful information, there’s no one way to use them…

… but I’ll try and break down my best suggestion of how to do it below.

Universal Orlando Resort Hulk Roller coaster at Islands of Adventure. Keep reading to learn about the Universal Studios Crowd Calendar 2024.

Pretty simply, you can either glance at each month of the year, or go directly to the month you’re thinking of planning your Universal Studios Orlando trip.

July 2024 Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar. Best Days to Go to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure

Then, from there, you can read which days will have what type of crowding so you can figure out when’s the best time to go.

The calendars break down theme park attendance into three levels. 

  • Low is an ideal time to go with minimal crowds and 10 minute or less wait times (BLUE COLOR)
  • Moderate means the crowds are pretty standard, with most rides having a 15 to 30 minute wait (YELLOW COLOR)
  • Heavy means the park is quite full with wait times quite possibly reaching an hour or more (RED COLOR)

I understand that sometimes you have a busy schedule, which means you might only be able to go to Universal Orlando Resort during a high crowd time.

Universal Crowd Calendar. Best Days to Go to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure

But, at the very least, this Orlando theme park crowd calendar can help you better prepare for what to expect so you know exactly what type of crowd level you’ll be walking into.

Everything You MUST Know About Wi-Fi at Universal Orlando for 2024!

Are Universal Orlando Crowd Calendars 100% Accurate?

Unfortunately, I can’t guarantee that any Universal Studios Orlando Crowd Calendar is 100% accurate, but we feel confident telling you that they’re pretty reliable!

Jimmy Fallon Ride and Hollywood Ride Rip Rock It at Universal

The reason we are hesitant to say that they are 100% accurate is due to unforeseen circumstances. 

Universal Orlando Resort Simpsonsland food court at Universal Studios Florida

For example, the 2024’s calendar is based on the attendance the parks saw in 2022 and 2023.  

Of course, in those previous years, the parks did not experience unforeseen closures due to a global pandemic. They also then didn’t have to recover this loss by offering discounted tickets and deals to spike park attendance again.

What about visiting Universal Orlando in 2024 and 2025?

I’m positive that attendance rates will be accurately predicted for the very unpredictable year of 2024 and 2025? 

Transformers The Ride 3D at Universal Studios Orlando

But I do think that compiling park attendance rates from the most recent years, which considers things like national holidays and school closures, are a great predictor for park crowds.

Universal Orlando Resort Grinchmas Christmas decor in Seuss Landing at Islands of Adventure

Additionally, crowd calendars take into effect things you might not necessarily think to research such as local Orlando special events. 

ORDER NOW to secure your Universal Studios theme park ticket! GET MY TICKETS.

For example, at the neighboring Disney theme parks, it might be marathon weekend, or the Epcot Food and Wine festival , meaning the crowds will be big at Universal Studios Orlando too.

Universal Orlando Resort Line to Get into Islands of Adventure. Keep reading to learn about the Universal Studios Crowd Calendar 2024.

But of course, all of this is too much for one person to keep track of. And that’s why Universal Studios Orlando Crowd Calendars are the best way to go when planning.

Ready to plan your theme park trip? Watch the best vacation planning tips on YouTube. Get started here!

Where can I find the Best Universal Studios Orlando Crowd Calendar? 

To be honest, it is super easy to find a crowd calendar for no charge at all. In fact, just hop onto Bing and type in “Universal Studios Orlando Crowd Calendar.”

November 2024 Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar. Best Days to Go to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure

You can also simply just Google “Orlando Theme Parks Crowd Calendar” if you’re looking to visit more than just Universal Studios Orlando.

Hogwarts Express Train at Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort.

However, I must admit that our favorite Orlando Theme Park Crowd Calendar can be found here: TheParkProdigy.com.

I love The Park Prodigy’s Universal Studios Orlando Crowd Calendar because it’s simple to read and offers the whole year at a quick glance.

The Amazing Adventures of Spider Man Islands of Adventure

It also extends to all of Disney’s and SeaWorld’s parks , so you can find all your theme park planning tips in one place!

2024 Groupon Universal Studios Orlando Deal: How to Save THE MOST Money on Tickets

How to Use The Park Prodigy’s Orlando Theme Park Crowd Calendar

To read The Park Prodigy’s Orlando Crowd Calendar, simply find the month you’re looking to travel in along the top row. 

Universal Orlando crowd calendar 2024

And right underneath, they even include what temperature highs and lows to expect that month – another great factor to consider when planning your next ThemeParkHipster visit!

Kwik E Mart in Simpsons Land at Universal Studios Florida. Keep reading to learn about the Universal Studios Crowd Calendar 2024.

Next, once you’ve located the month you desire, simply scroll downwards to locate the day(s) of the month that you’re looking to visit, which are listed along the furthest column to the left.

Finally, use their easy-to-read key to understand that day’s crowd level. A red dot indicates large crowds, a yellow dot indicates moderate crowds, and a blue dot indicates low crowds (aka: the best days to go!)

Additionally, you can opt to click the button on top of the calendar that reads “View Lowest Crowds Only” if you’re exclusively interested in low attendance park days.

Get up to 25% off of your Universal Studios Tickets with Groupon TODAY!

Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort

And also keep in mind that days shaded blue indicate national holidays, which typically lend themselves to large crowds.

Universal Orlando Resort Spongebob Squarepants Parade at Universal Studios Florida. Keep reading to learn about the Universal Studios Crowd Calendar.

My final favorite part about The Park Prodigy’s Universal Studios Orlando Crowd Calendar? Click on any date in the grid to get the details on all Orlando theme park hours and special events.

Jurassic Park River Adventure Universal Orlando Resort Islands of Adventure.

Basically, we promise that this calendar really is the only guide you need when planning your next Orlando theme park hopping vacation! 

Universal Orlando Resort a margarita at Chez Alcatraz with Jaws Bruce the Shark in background at Universal Studios

Plus, they’ve already got the 2024 calendar up and running… So, what are you waiting for? Start planning before the rest of the crowds do!

2023 Universal Orlando Annual Pass Guide: Prices, Perks, Tips and more!

Ways to Choose the Best Time to Visit Universal Studios Orlando

Okay, so I already told you all about your favorite Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar and how to use it.

Universal Orlando Resort Christmas decor on the arches of Universal Studios Florida. Keep reading to learn about the Universal Studios Crowd Calendar 2024.

But what about ‘what are the best times to visit Universal Studios Orlando and Islands of Adventure in general?’

Keep reading below for our favorite tips and tricks to find out!

AVOID the Universal Orlando Wait Times with Express Pass: Is it worth it in 2024?

What day of the week is the least crowded at Universal Studios Orlando?

Tuesdays or Wednesdays are typically the best days to hit up Universal Studios Orlando. This is because the weekends usually bring a lot of local visitors.

Universal Orlando Resort Toothsome's Chocolate Emporium and Hard Rock Cafe in Citywalk. Keep reading to learn about the Universal Studios Crowd Calendar.

Additionally, Thursdays and Fridays typically see out of town visitors who might arrive in Orlando on a Saturday, and then take the next few days to go to Disney’s parks before visiting Orlando Studios at the end of the week.

Although, to be honest, the time of year you go is a much better indicator of crowds than just the day of the week in general.

What is the best month to go to Universal Studios?

The best time to visit Universal Studios Orlando, or any Orlando theme park for that matter, is mid to late January and early February.

Universal Orlando Resort Giant Christmas Tree in Central Park of Universal Studios Florida. Keep reading to learn about the Universal Studios Crowd Calendar.

With early January comes the New Year crowds, and with mid-February comes Valentine’s Day outings.

NikkyJ at Universal Studios Mardi Gras with Twisted Taters

But typically, if you can arrange to go between January 7 and February 8, (after winter school breaks end), you’ll miss most seasonal crowds and resort price spikes.

RANKING the 10 Best Rides at Universal Orlando in 2024!

What is the cheapest time to go to Universal Studios Orlando?

When we talk about the cheapest time to go to Universal Studios Florida, I’m mostly referring to the resort room prices , since ticket prices do not fluctuate by season or time of year at the time of writing this post.

Halloween Horror Nights 2009

However, with that being said, note that prices will be higher during the Holiday season (i.e. December 20 – January 5) and special events (i.e. Halloween Horror Nights or any Harry Potter World related special events).

Halloween Horror Nights Jack the Clown in the Tribute Store 2020. Keep reading to learn about the Universal Studios Crowd Calendar.

In general, you’ll find the lowest Universal Studios Orlando pricing in January after the holiday season has passed and most families are saving up their pennies, recovering from their gift and vacation expenses from the last few weeks.

Ready to start planning your next Universal Orlando vacation? Listen to the  latest podcast episode on Apple  or on your  non-Apple  device now!

My Final Thoughts on the Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar

I truly hoped this helped you not only better understand the Universal Studios Orlando Crowd Calendar, but also help you overall in planning your next ThemeParkHipster amusement park hopping extravaganza!

Universal Orlando Resort Jurassic Park Velocicoaster at Night in Islands of Adventure with Dr Doom and Hulk. Keep reading to learn about the Universal Studios Crowd Calendar.

As a general rule, before planning any theme park visit, check out the Park Prodigy crowd calendar to make sure you’re going at the least busy, and therefore more inexpensive, time of year. 

What is the best day to go to Universal Studios. Keep reading to learn about the Universal Studios Crowd Calendar 2024.

I’m sure that this little bit of extra planning will make your visit more fun and memorable!

So, whether you’re a solo theme park flyer for the food, the rides, or the Instagrammable moments, we welcome you to our ThemeParkHipster community and hope to see you again soon for more exclusive theme park tips and tricks!

Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!

Gina Arfi Disney Writer at ThemeParkHipster

About the Author

Gina is a former Walt Disney World and Disney Cruise Line Cast Member who enjoys reliving the magic by writing helpful tips and tricks for future guests! 

Check out more about her Disney adventures and writing endeavors at   www.ginaarfi.net .

UP NEXT: What to Pack for Your Universal Orlando Vacation

(Original Article Date: September 29, 2020/Updated by Editor on January 8, 2024)

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Best Times to Go to Universal Studios Orlando 

Florida - Universal Studios Orlando - Best Time to go

Are you planning a trip to Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida and want to know the best time to do it? Picking the best time to travel to Universal Orlando can be easy.

That time could be affected by your family or work schedules, heat tolerance, or holiday preferences – such as Halloween Horror Nights. So, let’s discuss the Best Times to Go to Universal Studios Orlando.  

When is the Best Time of Year to Visit Universal Studios Orlando?  

Based on the factors involved, such as ticket pricing, crowds, events, and weather, the overall best time of year to go to Universal Studios Orlando would be after Labor Day – from September through to mid-October. Below is a breakdown of those factors.  

Ticket Pricing  

The first factor is based on a one-day, one-park ticket sans discounts or add-ons. For a more in-depth look check out our article on the overall cost of the Universal Orlando vacation.  

Between September and October is when the ticket prices are lowest. However, there are weekdays when tickets are available in Universal Studio’s lowest tier.  

Crowd Calendar  

Rising ticket prices are often concurrent with rising crowd levels. So, when prices are low, crowds are often low too. Universal and Disney both arrange their prices like this – surge pricing – to encourage people to visit more during slower times.  

Crowds dwindle following Labor Day and carry on through mid-October. This is due to the fact that most children have returned to school by the end of Labor Day weekend. Locals and annual pass holders keep crowds slightly elevated on weekends. Peak season is from May to August.  

Florida - Universal Studios Orlando - Best Time to go

Halloween Horror Nights and Other Special Events  

September through October is a fun time to visit Universal. That’s due in large part to Halloween Horror Nights , which is by far Universal Studios’ most popular event of the year.  

It’s held on select nights throughout September and October from around 6 PM to 2 AM – usually on the weekends. However, visiting when the event is held on weeknights is best because crowds are down.  

Good Times to Visit

  • January – February : This is historically the least crowded time of the year to visit Universal Studios Orlando. Though crowds increase on holiday weekends like Martin Luther King Jr. Day – the third Monday in January, and President’s Day – the third Monday in February. Otherwise, this is an ideal time to visit the park.  
  • End of April to Mid-May : The days leading up to Memorial Day are another good time to visit the park. Low attendance will allow you to enjoy the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, or rides like the VelociCoaster at Jurassic World and Rip, Ride, and Rockit with short wait times.  

Best Month to Visit Universal Orlando  

Overall, October is the best month to visit Universal Studios Orlando. Specifically, the weekdays within the first two weeks of the month are ideal as crowds are typically low. However, the closer to Halloween it gets, the crowns increase.  

Weekends in the month of October can get busy as locals and annual pass holders visit for Halloween Horror Nights on their days off. Still, if you stick to weekdays in October – you’ll be in for a pleasant experience.  

Best Season to Visit Universal Studios  

The best season to visit Universal Orlando – hands down – is winter. Theme parks are magical during the winter months. With holidays throughout the season, the parks are filled with festive events.  

With exciting experiences such as the Yule Ball at Hogsmeade , Who-ville’s Grinchmas at Seuss Landing , and Universal’s holiday parade featuring balloons from Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, you can hardly go wrong. Here are the best times in Winter:    

  • Early November to a week before Thanksgiving  
  • The week after Thanksgiving to the week before Christmas  
  • January through the third week of February  

The least-crowded days of the week at Universal are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, especially throughout the school year.  The lowest-priced month? Current ticket pricing shows 14 days throughout September when you can buy tickets at Universal’s lowest pricing tier of $109 for a one-day, one-park ticket.  

Stay up to speed on all the hot spots and sweet destinations. Return to Travel Hop regularly for all the latest travel news and updates.   

best time of year to visit universal studios orlando

The Best Time to Go to Universal Studios

The best time to visit Universal Studios depends on many different factors. It may come down to family or work schedules, a dislike of the heat and humidity, or a desire to go during Halloween Horror Nights. Schedules and personal preferences aside, some times of the year are better than others when considering crowd levels, ticket prices, and things to do at the parks. Below, we discuss the best times to go to Universal Studios and why.

Visit Universal Studios Orlando’s website for park hours.

Crowds at Universal Orlando

Images are courtesy of Universal Orlando Resort

When Is the Best Time to Visit Universal Studios Orlando?

The best time to go to Universal Studios Orlando is September after Labor Day through the middle of October. This is based on various factors, including ticket pricing, crowds, events, and weather.

Ticket pricing

The first factor is ticket pricing, which we based on a one-day, one-park ticket with no discounts or add-ons. You will find some of the cheapest ticket pricing of the year between September and October. There are many weekdays where you can purchase park tickets at Universal Studios lowest ticket tier, which is $119 for 2023 during this period.

Prices increase slightly on the weekends and rise closer to Halloween.

Crowd Calendar

Ticket pricing and crowd levels are often linked together: you can expect fewer crowds when ticket pricing is low. Universal and Disney intentionally set their prices this way (referred to as “surge pricing”) to encourage guests to visit during slower times. As a result, lower ticket pricing usually indicates the least crowded days to visit Universal.

Crowds are typically lower after Labor Day through mid-October because most children have returned to school by the end of Labor Day weekend. In addition, families are less likely to take their children out of school for vacation right after summer breaks, making it a great time to visit Universal and other Orlando theme parks.

You can expect crowds to slightly increase on weekends due to visits from locals and annual pass holders. Still, you won’t generally notice it compared to other busy times of the year, such as during the summer or spring break. Don’t forget you can always purchase an express pass. The peak season for park guests in Universal Studios Orlando is May to August.

Halloween Horror Nights and other Special Events

One of the primary reasons September and October are the best times to go to Universal is to experience Halloween Horror Nights, by far Universal Studios’ most popular event of the year . This event regularly sells out.

This ticketed event is held on select nights throughout September and October from around 6 pm to 1 or 2 am. Halloween Horror Nights are usually held on the weekends through most of September. Then two or three-weekday events are added toward the end of September and throughout October and would be perfect for a fall break.

Visiting on a weekday event night between mid-September and mid-October will give you the best opportunity to enjoy Halloween Horror Nights while avoiding the more crowds that descend around Halloween.

The weather in Central Florida is another excellent reason to visit Universal between mid-September and mid-October. Florida usually transitions from a tropical, wet-season pattern with daily afternoon thunderstorms to a dry, low-humidity pattern with very few rainy days during this time. When visiting in October, expect days with highs in the low and mid-80s with low humidity and comfortable, breezy nights. These are the perfect temperatures for a night out at HHN.

The Incredible Hulk Coaster - Universal Orlando

Other Great Times to Visit Universal

While mid-September through mid-October is the best time to visit Universal, there are other periods throughout the year when you’d experience low crowds, great weather, and plenty of activities. Here are some of the other great times to visit Universal:

January — The End of February

The period just after New Year’s and before March first is historically the least crowded time of the year to visit Universal Studios Orlando. Crowds increase on certain long weekends, like Martin Luther King Jr. Day (the third Monday in January) and President’s Day (the third Monday in February). Still, most weekends and weekdays are great times to visit.

Suppose you choose to visit right after New Year’s. In that case, you can experience all the Universal holiday festivities and decorations without the holiday crowds. Universal Studios Christmas decor typically stays up through the first weekend in January. You can also join in on the festive fun of Mardi Gras, which starts in early February every year.

The weather is typically very comfortable during this time as well. There’s low humidity, below-average precipitation, and only a few “cold snaps” (which in Florida means any day under 70 degrees). So overall, you’ll experience the type of weather you can boast about to your friends up north who are stuck in snowy cities.

Ticket prices are typically some of the lowest of the entire year during this time, too!

End of April — Mid-May

The spring break rush leading up to Memorial Day is another excellent time to visit Universal Studios Orlando. Again, low attendance will allow you to enjoy the Wizarding World of Harry Potter™, the VelociCoaster at Jurassic World, and thrill rides like Rip, Ride, and Rockit with short wait times. Weather-wise, you can expect warm, summer-like temperatures with increasing humidity and some intense afternoon thundershowers that pass quickly.

Best time to go to Universal Studios is during Halloween Horror Nights

What Is the Best Month to Visit Universal Studios?

October is the best month to visit Universal Studios Orlando. More specifically, weekdays in the first two weeks of October are the best time to visit.

Crowds are typically low at the beginning of October but increase closer to Halloween. Weekends in October can get pretty busy: many locals and annual pass holders come to experience Halloween Horror Nights on their time off. You may experience a slight spike in attendance the weekend before Columbus Day weekend / Indigenous Peoples’ Day (the second Monday in October). However, you’ll be set if you stick to weekdays in October.

The main event during this time is Halloween Horror Nights. If you’re a fan of seeing your nightmares come to life with haunted houses themed after popular shows like Stranger Things and movies like The Haunting of Hill House , you’ll definitely want to visit Universal during this time. However, if horror isn’t your cup of tea, Central Florida’s low humidity, low rain chances (goodbye afternoon thunderstorms!), and comfortable afternoon temperatures will convince you to visit Universal Orlando in October.

What Is the Best Season to Visit Universal Studios ?

The best season to visit Universal Orlando is winter.

There’s something simply wonderful about visiting theme parks around the holidays. There’s never a dull moment with plenty of festive experiences, whether you watch Hogwarts™ castle come to life with visions of the Yule Ball at Hogsmeade™ or take a trip to Who-ville for Grinchmas™ at Seuss Landing™.

Don’t forget to catch the holiday parade featuring balloons from Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade! Although winter is one of the best times to visit Universal, it can also be one of the busiest, so expect crowds. If you avoid these busy times, you’ll see the lowest crowds and prices of the year.

We suggest visiting Universal Orlando during the following times in the winter:

  • Beginning of November through the week before Thanksgiving.
  • The week after Thanksgiving through the week before Christmas.
  • January through the third week in February.

What Days of the Week are the Least Busy at Universal Studios?

The slowest days of the week at Universal are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, especially during the school year. The reason is pretty apparent: it is smack dab in the middle of the workweek. Those are a few days that adults are less likely to take off work (even if they want to take a long weekend) and aren’t typical days for kids to be off school unless it’s during a break. Note: this doesn’t mean you won’t see children on your trip if you visit during one of these days! Saturday is usually the busiest day to visit Universal Studios Orlando, so the closer you get to the weekend, the busier it will be.

What is the Best Day to Visit Universal Studios ?

The best day to go to Universal Studios is Wednesday. Since Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday are the slowest days of the week, they’re also the best few days to visit.

As we discussed above, ticket prices typically indicate crowd levels. Ticket pricing on Wednesday is consistently lower than on other days of the week throughout the year. Therefore, planning a trip to Universal Studios on a Wednesday gives you the best chance to purchase park tickets at Universal’s lowest ticket pricing tier. However, a few exceptions exist, such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve week. Overall, Wednesday is the least crowded and cheapest day to visit Universal Orlando, regardless of the season.

What is the Cheapest Month to Visit Universal Studios in 2023?

September is the cheapest month to visit Universal Orlando. Current ticket pricing shows a total of 14 days throughout September, priced at Universal’s lowest pricing tier of $119 for a one-day, one-park ticket, more than any other month in 2023. This increases your chances of getting the best possible price for your Universal Studios Orlando and Islands of Adventure park tickets. We suggest choosing a weekday after Labor Day and before October first to get the best ticket deals.

What is the Most Expensive Month to Go to Universal?

The most expensive month to visit Universal Orlando is December. We don’t want to be a Grinch, but since the Christmas season is one of the busiest times to go to Universal, the ticket pricing is the highest of the year. In fact, the entire week between Christmas and New Year’s is priced at the most expensive tier, which is $152 per day in 2023. Even the lowest ticket price in December is the most expensive price point in slower months like September. The Pop Warner Super Bowl and National Cheer and Dance Championships are also in the first week of December.

See our How Much Does It Cost to Go to Universal article for more information.

Halloween Horror Nights at Universal

When is the Busiest Time to Visit Universal Studios ?

We’ve discussed the best time to go to Universal, but what times of the year should you avoid? Universal Studios’ busiest times coincide with other busy times at theme parks like Walt Disney World. The busiest times to visit Universal Orlando are:

  • The week of Thanksgiving.
  • The week between Christmas and New Year’s.
  • Spring break season (the beginning of March through Easter Sunday).

These are the times when most children are on school breaks, and many adults also have off work. So you can bet that any time there is a large group of people off of work or school at the same time, Orlando theme parks will be busy.

Visit Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios Hollywood is a theme park and movie studio in Los Angeles, California. It is one of the most popular and oldest theme parks in the United States, featuring attractions and rides based on popular movies and television shows. Some of the park’s most popular rides include the Forbidden Journey ride, Harry Potter World, The Walking Dead attraction, and Jurassic Park: The Ride.

The park also features a variety of live shows, including the Special Effects Show, Super Silly Fun Land, Universal Citywalk, and the WaterWorld stunt show. In addition to the rides and shows, visiting Universal Studios Hollywood also has a variety of dining and shopping options, as well as several hotels located nearby for those who want to make a vacation out of their visit.

The Best Time to Visit Universal Studios: A Summary

The best times to visit Universal Studios are:

  • September after Labor Day through mid-October.
  • January through the end of February.
  • April (after Easter Sunday) through the week before Memorial Day.

The cheapest and least crowded times to visit Universal Studios are :

  • Weekdays in October.

Additionally, winter is the best season to visit Universal Studios due to the numerous special events that occur during the holiday season and the low crowds in January and February if you plan your trip in very early January (just after New Year’s), you can even experience all the holiday festivities—without the large crowds.

We base these conclusions on several factors, including historical crowd levels, ticket pricing, and the weather in Central Florida.

We hope this guide will help you and your family plan your trip to Universal Studios and Universal’s Islands of Adventure and demystify the mystery behind deciding when to visit.

Book your Universal Orlando Vacation

If you’re ready to get started with booking your Universal Studios vacation, talk to our friends at The Vacationeer . They offer free vacation planning services with expert Universal travel agents . Click HERE for a free quote !

Are you looking for more information on Universal or Magic Kingdom? We have many more articles!

See our other Universal pages, including: Universal Orlando Map , Universal Orlando Transportation , Best Universal Orlando Rides , Universal vs Disney World , How to Get from Disney World to Universal , How Much do Wands cost at Universal Studios , Is the Universal Express Pass Worth It , Universal Orlando Customer Service Contact Info , and How to get the Universal Express Pass for Free .

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The Best Time to Visit Orlando

best time of year to visit universal studios orlando

Gina Pricope/Getty Images

The best time to visit Orlando is typically between February and May, when you’ll find fewer crowds, more affordable accommodations, and absolutely perfect weather (especially if you live in a colder climate!).

Orlando is a major tourist destination—thanks to its multiple theme parks and attractions—but traveling during the city’s “off season” can help you save a few bucks on travel expenses and entertainment. If you’re traveling at this time of the year, however, you may see higher pricing during Easter and spring breaks, so try to book ahead.

Ready to start planning? Read on for more information about Orlando’s weather and its busiest season, as well as a month-by-month guide on the best times to visit Orlando.

The Weather in Orlando

It’s true that the Sunshine State has an abundance of sunshine—and in land-locked Orlando, it can be extremely humid, too. Temperatures in the summer can climb well into the 90s, but the humidity can make it feel like it’s in the 100s—and you can expect a rain storm every day. Florida has a subtropical climate, after all! This makes it great for swimming at the beach or the natural springs .

During the winter and spring, however, the weather is much more moderate. Daytime temperatures hover between the 50s and 70s, and can dip into the 40s at night—so be sure to pack a light jacket or sweater. Winter and spring are also Florida’s driest seasons, averaging only four rainy days per month.  

Unbearably hot, summer weather continues until about mid-September, but Florida’s falls can be pleasant, too. The downside to fall travel? Hurricane season runs from June through October. Although hurricanes don’t often affect Orlando—and the chances of a hurricane hitting Florida during your trip are slim—it’s definitely something to keep in mind as you craft your itinerary. 

Peak Season in Orlando

Because Orlando has so many theme parks and kid-friendly attractions, crowds typically peak whenever there’s a school holiday—think summer vacation, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and spring break—and during the holidays, when families head to Florida to visit grandparents. During these times, you’ll find airfare and accommodations are significantly more expensive, and crowds around Orlando’s tourist spots are bigger.

Tourist Attraction Availability in Orlando

Orlando’s temperate climate helps many tourist attractions stay open all year long, but depending on the time of year, there may be some exceptions. Disney World , for example, has slightly shorter hours during the fall and winter months, and many of Orlando’s waterparks are closed during the winter season.

January can be a busy time in Orlando, as many schools are still on winter break. While super high, holiday pricing for airfare and accommodations tend to drop in January, crowds can linger. Outside of Orlando’s tourist destinations, you’ll find a lot to do—with far fewer crowds—so be sure to check out downtown Orlando, Mills 50, and nearby Winter Park. 

Events to check out:

  • Epcot International Festival of the Arts: Celebrating all things art—and eating—this festival brings must-see exhibits, professional workshops, live concerts and performances, and some of the world’s most delicious foods to Epcot’s grounds. 
  • The Orlando Magic at the Amway Center: Even if basketball isn’t your thing, you’ll want to check out a Magic game at Orlando’s Amway Center. The stadium features locally-made eats from O-Town favorites like Black Bean Deli and Gringos Locos Tacos, as well as a stunning rooftop bar with 360-degree views of downtown Orlando.

Aside from President’s Day Weekend, February is generally slower than January. The weather remains clear, comfortable, and dry, so take advantage by hitting the great outdoors. Try your hand at paddle boarding or kayaking on one of Orlando’s numerous lakes, or head to Blue Spring State Park to see the manatees migrate for the spring.

  • Universal Orlando Mardi Gras: Universal brings the Big Easy to the Sunshine State with authentic Mardi Gras entertainment, eats, and daily parades.
  • Disney Princess Half Marathon: runDisney races bring thousands and thousands of runners to Orlando, and this half marathon is no exception. The best part? Many runners dress up as their favorite princesses and princes!   

Spring break, Epcot’s Flower & Garden Festival, and Daytona Bike Week may bring crowds to Orlando in March, so check out some of the city’s other offerings, like museums, breweries, and gorgeous public parks. If you’re heading to the theme parks, be sure to arrive early—before the park reaches capacity.

  • Epcot’s Flower & Garden Festival : OK, it may be crowded, but the absolutely amazing floral and garden arrangements are well worth it. Think: Your favorite Disney characters crafted out of beautiful florals and greenery.
  • APGD Eat Local, Sip Local Stroll: Head to the Audubon Park Garden District for a night of local beers and spirits, and inventive eats made with Florida-grown ingredients.

Spring breakers abound! You can expect some serious theme park crowds around spring break and Easter, but otherwise, Orlando isn’t super busy. If you want to skip the theme parks, check out the area’s lakes and nearby beaches for a little fun in the sun. By April, the temperature—and water—tend to be warm enough for recreation.

  • Florida Film Festival : Hosted by the beautiful Enzian theater, this 10-day film festival screens nearly 200 films and hosts over 20,000 guests. Plus, the Enzian offers delicious, hand-crafted cocktails and locally-inspired eats, so you can nom while you watch Oscar noms.  

May kicks off Florida’s rainy season, so you can expect higher temperatures and regular afternoon rainstorms. Most schools are still in session, so airfare and accommodations will be on the cheaper side, and crowds will be minimal. Take advantage by heading to the theme parks early, then checking out the city of Orlando at night.    

  • Cinco de Mayo in downtown Orlando: Head to Church Street—the city of Orlando’s very first strip of bars and restaurants—for endless margaritas, guacamole, and dancing.

The first month of summer brings brutal heat and massive crowds to Orlando. Be sure to wear sunscreen and a hat—the Florida sun is much stronger than you may think—and be prepared to wait in longer lines at theme parks. If you’re not visiting the area’s attractions, stick to air conditioned destinations, like museums, movie theaters, and bars and restaurants.

  • Bite30 : Orlando’s 30-Day Restaurant Week: Eat your way through the city—and stay cool in the air conditioning!—during this month-long celebration of Orlando’s best restaurants. Participating eateries will showcase their food with $30 prix fixe dinner menus.

Every child in America is on summer break in July, so it’s no surprise that it’s also the peak month for Orlando’s theme parks and attractions. Expect extremely long waits for rides and attractions; unbearably hot and humid weather; and heavy traffic on Orlando’s major roads. Apply (and reapply!) sunscreen and drink lots of water to help beat the strong summer sun.

  • Fireworks at Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and Disney Springs: Looking for a spectacular fireworks display for the Fourth of July? Look no further than the House of Mouse.
  • Lake Nona Great American Block Party: This free event offers entertainment, activities, and eats for the entire family. We should also mention there’s free apple pie a la mode after the block party’s annual pie baking contest. 

August is the hottest month of the year in Orlando, so try to stay inside when the sun is strongest—between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. If theme parks are on your August itinerary, be sure to visit some of Orlando’s water parks, like Typhoon Lagoon, to cool off. Alternately, you can head to Winter Park, Florida, and hop on the Winter Park Boat Tour. You’ll catch a nice breeze from the boat’s deck, and get a glimpse at some of Winter Park’s most gorgeous waterfront abodes.

  • Epcot’s International Food & Wine Festival: Sample drinks and delicacies from around the globe at this months-long festival.

School is back in session, so September is one of the best times to visit Orlando’s theme parks. Plus, hotel rates hit their lowest price points of the year. The one downside? The heat and humidity can be almost unbearable. Like we said: Drink lots of water and don’t forget your sunscreen.

October’s cooler temperatures are a much, much welcomed reprieve from the summer heat. Many theme parks have fun events for Halloween, like Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios (definitely not for kids) and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party (perfect for kids), so you can expect some crowds. In the city of Orlando, you’ll find amazing Halloween parties and a city-wide pride celebration. 

  • Orlando Pride Festival: October is Orlando’s pride month, so there are tons of events happening around the city—from a drag 5k road race, to a LGBTQ film festival, to massive parties downtown.

Between snow birds settling in for the winter and family members visiting for the holidays, November can be a busy time in Orlando. If you can manage the crowds, however, you’ll be rewarded with some gorgeous weather.

Both the city of Orlando and the theme parks get totally decked out for the holidays during December. It’s kind of like a winter wonderland, except the temperatures hover around the low-70s during the day and the 50s at night. The best of both worlds, right? Unsurprisingly, holiday and winter breaks bring major crowds to the theme parks and attractions, so expect long lines and heavy traffic in the areas surrounding the parks.

  • Epcot’s Candlelight Processional: If you can brave the crowds, don’t miss Epcot’s gorgeous retelling of the Christmas story, during which the narrator is accompanied by a 50-piece orchestra and mass choir.  

Between February and May, you'll find fewer crowds, cheaper accommodation, and warm weather that's not too hot.

Orlando is at its rainiest in the summer between June and September, with the most rain typically falling around June and July specifically.

Hurricane season in Florida runs between June and October, but storms rarely do damage in landlocked Orlando.

Weather Spark. "Average weather in Orlando, Florida, United States, Year Round." Retrieved February 5th, 2021.

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The 2024 Cheapest Time to Visit Universal Orlando

one-of-the-best-days-to-visit-universal-orlando

This article is your complete guide to the 2024 cheapest time to visit Universal Orlando. We all know Universal Studios Orlando brings thrill and adventure in all of their parks, rides, and entertainment. However, with all the parks, travel, hotel fare, and other amenities, your exciting trip turns into a budgeting nightmare. However, there are plenty of ways to save money at Universal Studios Orlando, and we’re here to teach you some tricks and tips.

We’ve done many trips on short weekends, looking for the best time to go to Universal Studios to save some money! We’ve stayed in offsite hotels, done all of Universal Orlando in one day, and many other tricks to budget a cheap Universal trip.

We hope you find this post helpful! Our goal at The Park Prodigy has always been to help you save time and money on your next Universal Orlando vacation!  If you are planning a trip to Universal Orlando be sure to check out our   discounted multi-day Universal Orlando tickets  and  Universal Orlando vacation package deals  which include  EARLY PARK ADMISSION  to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!

So if you’re ready to learn how to do Universal Studios on a budget read on!

SPECIAL NOTE: If you need help picking the best time to visit Universal Orlando for your next vacation be sure to check out our Universal Crowd Calendar!

 Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar

The Cheapest Time of Year to Visit Universal Studios Orlando 2024

Toon Lagoon Dudley Do-Right Ride

Let’s start with the most important question on this topic which is, when is the cheapest time to visit Universal Orlando?  And as a general rule of thumb, the cheapest time to visit Universal Orlando is in September right after kids go back to school from summer break, January, February, and the end of August. It’s also important to note that we find the best time to buy your discount Universal tickets is in January.

The primary reason why the best times to go to Universal Studios are so appealing lies in Universal’s recent marketing strategies. For the past two consecutive years, Universal has launched special ticket promotions , offering 2 complimentary days when you purchase a 2 or 3-day pass to the parks. These enticing offers often extend through the fall, providing an excellent opportunity to capitalize on the already budget-friendly ticket prices usually found in late August and September. Before we delve deeper into the best time to go to Universal during the off-season, here are several invaluable tips and tricks to help you pinpoint the best day to go to Universal Studios Orlando for yourself!

Pay attention to ticket prices

One of the easiest ways to spot the Universal Orlando off-season is to pay attention to ticket pricing. The reason is Universal Orlando tickets now fluctuate based on the day you first plan to visit the theme parks. As you can guess, Universal will adjust their ticket pricing during the busier times of the year and also adjust ticket pricing during the Universal Orlando off-season. So one of the easiest ways to spot the cheapest time of year to visit Universal Studios Orlando is by looking at the one-day Universal Orlando ticket pricing!

Plan your trip right after the kids go back to school

One of the most effective strategies for identifying the cheapest time to go to Universal is to align your trip with the school calendar. Specifically, consider planning your visit right after the kids return to school. This period usually falls at the beginning of September, making it an optimal time to go to Universal Studios Orlando for several reasons. First, the parks are generally less crowded, as families have concluded their summer vacations and children are back in school. Second, you’ll find that ticket prices and hotel rates are often more affordable during these off-peak times.

Another window of opportunity is during the winter breaks in January and February. While these months may not offer the warmest weather, they do present a chance to experience Universal with fewer crowds and lower costs. This is especially true if you’re not tied to a school schedule and have the flexibility to travel during these less popular months.

So, whether you’re aiming for the best time or the cheapest time to go to Universal, planning around the school calendar can offer significant advantages.

Look for deals on vacation packages

Not only will Universal run deals on vacation packages during the off-season but it can be one of the cheapest ways to visit Universal Orlando. The main reason is guests might be able to take advantage of up to 30% off a vacation package depending on the time of year you visit. The second is that some of the Universal Orlando hotels come with free express passes. Although the hotels typically cost more per night the savings on the express passes along with the opportunity to skip the lines will allow you to get so much more done in a short amount of time.

Always buy your tickets in advance

One of the cheapest ways to go to Universal Orlando if you are not purchasing a vacation package is to buy your tickets in advance. All guests who purchase their tickets in advance will take advantage of savings when compared to the price of tickets at the gate. When guests book multi-day tickets or vacation packages through The Park Prodigy get Early Park Admission !

Related Page: The Cheapest Universal Orlando Tickets

When is the Cheapest Times to Visit Universal Studios in 2024 

volcano-bay-universal-studios

As a general guideline, vacation prices for Universal Orlando are most affordable during specific months: late August, September, January, and February. These months often align with the best time to go to Universal Studios 2024  and beyond, as they offer a combination of lower costs and fewer crowds. To assist you further, we’ve included a comprehensive Orlando Crowd Calendar on our website.

This calendar features all one-day ticket prices, and as you’ll observe, these prices closely mirror the expected crowd levels at both Universal and Disney parks during various times of the year. In essence, the ticket prices serve as a reliable indicator of Universal Studios’ best time to go , allowing you to plan your trip more effectively.

What are the cheapest days to go to Universal?

  • Jan. 5-9, Jan. 10-15, Jan 24-31 (cheapest way to go to Harry Potter World )
  • Feb. 1-14, Feb. 22-28
  • Apr. 25-May.1
  • All of August
  • All of September
  • Oct. 1-7, 11-16, 18-22, 24-29
  • Nov. 1-6, 8-10, 14-19 (avoid Thanksgiving week)
  • Dec. 1-4, 6-11  (avoid Christmas and New Year’s Eve)

What is the off-season for Universal Orlando?

Another important question we receive regarding this topic is, what is the off-season for Universal Orlando? As a general rule of thumb, we do find September, January, February, and the end of August. The main reason is these are the times of year when most kids are going back to school after major summer or holiday breaks.

Related Page: Discount Universal Orlando tickets

What is the Cheapest Way to go to Universal Studios for Tickets?

universal-islands-of-adventure-discount-tickets

Buying discounted Universal tickets from a verified travel agent site such as The Park Prodigy is the cheapest way to get to Universal Studios . These tickets are authorized to ensure secure travel. The Park Prodigy will also run special deals and promotions on Universal tickets throughout the year to take advantage of even bigger savings. You can select single-day or multi-day tickets. If you’d rather buy directly from Universal , be sure to only select their cheapest times of the year. However, for the cheapest way to go to Universal Studios Orlando, we do suggest working with a verified retailer!

When is the cheapest time to buy Universal Orlando tickets?

Now that you have figured out who you will buy your tickets from you might be wondering, when is the cheapest time to buy your Universal Orlando tickets?  As a general rule of thumb, Universal will typically run the best deals in January and February and then again in early fall. Some of the most recent deals that Universal has run have been buy two days and get two days free.

Related Page: How to Visit Universal Orlando on a Budget

When is the Best Time to Book Universal Hotels 2024?

best time of year to visit universal studios orlando

As Universal ticket prices fluctuate, so do Universal Studios hotel prices . Discounted rates have been offered on hotels during the off-season for Universal Orlando. To confirm these months are typically the end of August, Early September, January, and February. It is recommended, however, to book in advance, as hotel prices can always change, and if the deal is great, then that entices travelers to book while the deal is hot. It’s also important to note that guests who do book an official Universal Orlando vacation package through a Travel Agent like The Park Prodigy guests would also be eligible to try to take advantage of any discounts and promotions that Universal releases even after their package has been booked.

What is the cheapest Universal Orlando hotel?

  • Universal Endless Summer Resort: Starting at $99.00 per night

Related Page: Discount Universal Orlando Vacation Packages

The Most Expensive Time to Visit Universal Studios Orlando 

Universal Orlando Holiday Vacation

Similar to many other theme parks, the cheapest way to see Universal Studios Orlando is not during the holidays. The holiday season, around Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year, brings out fans from all over the world, as they want to see the magic and creativity that happens during the holiday season. Along with that, kids are typically on school break, allowing them to travel with the family.

If you’re trying to go to Universal Studios on a budget, you should also try avoiding visiting during the summer months. Although hot, kids have off from school, creating a very busy time for the parks. Because of this, prices increase and it doesn’t make for a comfortable setting.

Related Article: Special Events at Universal Orlando 

Is it Cheaper to Stay at Universal Studios or Disney?

Premier Hotel Universal Orlando Resort

Another common question we receive is, is it cheaper to stay at Universal Orlando or Disney? And, we do find that Universal hotels are cheaper to book when planning your Orlando vacation. Very simply Universals value resort, the Universal Endless Summer Resort has rooms starting at $98 per night.  Not only that but we also do find that the premier Universal resorts are also cheaper than the Disney deluxe resorts.

The great news is these rooms will become even less expensive if you use all of the tips and tricks to pick the cheapest time to visit Universal found on this page. Including waiting and shopping for a Universal Orlando package deal for late August and early September.

How Can I Know the Cheapest Time of Year to go to Universal Studios?

If you’re looking for some money-saving tips for Universal Orlando, start with planning around the time frame. Using our Universal Crowd Calendar can help determine how busy the parks will be during a specific month, week, and even day. This reliable source will help break down crowd levels, park hours, and average weather. Our calendar helps by being the cheapest way to book Universal Studios Orlando tickets by showing the cheapest times. Since ticket prices change daily, the calendar will show the cost of a one-day ticket.

Related Page: Transportation from MCO to Universal Orlando 

2024 Cheapest Time of Year to Visit Universal Orlando FAQ

f-a-q

Q: Why does Universal close so early?

A: Another great way to spot some of the cheapest times to visit Universal Orlando is to pay attention to the park hours. The main reason is Universal will typically close the parks earlier during the off-season when they tend to be least busy. This could be another great tip to find some of the cheapest times to visit Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Universal Orlando?

Our   Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar  is the best tool to help you get the most out of your time in the parks. We breakdown the park crowds, park hours of operation, ticket prices by day, and average temperature.

Are You Ready to Plan Your Next Universal Orlando Trip?

If you are planning a trip to Universal Orlando be sure to check out our   discounted multi-day Universal Orlando tickets   and  Universal Orlando vacation package deals  which include  EARLY PARK ADMISSION  to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!

And to stay up to date on everything going on inside the theme parks be sure to check out our partners at  Themeparktoday.com!

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best time of year to visit universal studios orlando

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best time of year to visit universal studios orlando

Michael Belmont

Michael Belmont is the owner at Theparkprodigy.com, an authorized Disney and Universal travel agent. He specializes in Disney and Universal theme park tickets and vacation packages, as well as daily park plans to help optimize vacation time. Michael and The Park Prodigy have been featured on ABC’s Florida affiliate, WTFV, as well as over 10 Disney focused blogs. As owner, Michael manages The Park Prodigy blog and social media, a Disney themed podcast, and a Disney and Universal focused YouTube channel. Prior to starting The Park Prodigy, Michael was a long time Disney and Universal enthusiast, frequent visitor of the parks, and even served as a Walt Disney World Cast Member in Orlando, Florida!

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best time of year to visit universal studios orlando

Walt Disney World Tickets

Save time and money on your next Walt Disney World vacation with The Park Prodigy. With our discounted Walt Disney World theme park tickets guests can choose from the following parks!

  • Magic Kingdom Park
  • Disney’s Holywood Studios
  • Disney’s Animal Kingdom

best time of year to visit universal studios orlando

Universal Orlando Tickets

Save up to three hours at Universal Orlando with free vacation planning tools and added benefits. With our Universal tickets guests can choose from the following parks!

  • Universal Studios
  • Islands of Adventure

best time of year to visit universal studios orlando

Disneyland Tickets

Save time and money with our your next vacation with The Park Prodigy. With our discounted Disneyland tickets guests can choose from the following parks!

  • Disney’s California Adventure Park

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Universal Orlando Has a Major Controversy on Its Hands

in Universal Orlando

Islands of Adventure on a bright, sunny day.

Universal Orlando Resort has a legitimate controversy on its hands, and it’s one that has confused many fans.

There’s no doubt when speaking about the current landscape of the theme park industry that Universal Orlando Resort is near the top. The company is in its final year of construction for Epic Universe , an all-new theme park that will open in the summer of 2025, and there are many insiders who believe Universal Studios Orlando will be legitimate competition with Walt Disney World Resort– perhaps even surpassing Disney– for many years to come.

An empty Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Orlando Florida

That being said, Universal Orlando is facing a legitimate controversy right now that has many fans scratching their heads. Though Universal has made a lot of good decisions in the past few years, one decision is continuing to be ill-received: Changing Skull Island: Reign of Kong to a 2-D ride.

The popular attraction, located at Universal’s Islands of Adventure , has been maimed over the years. Though it once had an outside portion that guests would ride through before beginning their adventure, that has since been taken out with no plans in the near future of it being brought back. In addition, Universal made the decision a few weeks ago to change the ride from 3-D to 2-D.

Guests stand outside the entrance for Skull Island: Reign of Kong, which is made of rocks.

However, many fans have noted that the technology– which was originally set in 3-D– just doesn’t look right in 2-D. Most recently, Alicia Stella– who is well-respected in the theme park industry– gave a list of everything that’s wrong with the attraction currently, sharing that she “probably won’t be riding Reign of Kong anymore.”

Probably won’t be riding Reign of Kong anymore, unless they bring 3D back. Ceilings/edges of all screens visible First screen is absolutely the worst 20-foot tall Kate Odd blurring of Rexes during 360 Action falls flat, literally I’m really disappointed. pic.twitter.com/Dvo145V2B1 — Alicia Stella Nova Resort (@AliciaStella) March 18, 2024

Amid the problems with the 2-D version of the ride, Stella shares that there is a “20-foot-tall Kate” and “odd blurring” of the dinosaurs during the 360 versions. As a result, the “action falls flat, literally,” she points out.

Of course, she’s not alone. There have been hundreds of users on social media expressing their displeasure with Universal taking away the effect. Universal’s official social media account replied on the thread, sharing that it would be documented.

“We’re saddened to hear of your recent experience at Skull Island: Reign of Kong, and we appreciate you sharing this detailed feedback. Rest assured that we’ll get this documented and ensure that it’s shared with the proper leadership teams.”

Entrance to the temple at Skull Island: reign of kong. It features two torches and large stone doors.

At its current theme parks, Universal Orlando has continued to add to its offerings. Universal Studios Florida opened Minion Land last year and DreamWorks Land is just a matter of a few months away from its big opening , though no official date has been announced as of yet.

Universal’s newest coasters at Islands of Adventure– Jurassic World VelociCoaster and Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure — are two of the best coasters in the world. When you combine all of this together, it’s easy to see why many families have begun vacationing at Universal Orlando Resort exclusively, taking away some of the market share held by Disney .

At this time, no other information has been given on the attraction’s status.

You can visit Disney World, Universal for under $100 a day: The deal with summer tickets

best time of year to visit universal studios orlando

Central Florida can swelter in the summer, with high temperatures and what feels like even higher humidity. But it’s still a popular time to visit the region’s theme parks . 

This year, those who brave the heat can be rewarded with ticket deals at destinations like Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort and LEGOLAND Florida, all starting at under $100 a day. SeaWorld Orlando tickets drop as low as $60 on select dates.

Here’s what travelers planning summer theme park vacations should know. 

How much is a ticket to Disney World?

Disney World tickets vary by date and park. For one-day, one-park admission for guests ages 10 and up, starting prices range from $109 at Disney's Animal Kingdom to $124 at Magic Kingdom.

However, the resort is offering two ticket deals for spring and summer.

  • The 4-Day, 4-Park Magic Ticket costs $396, which works out to $99 a day. It includes one day at each of Disney World’s four theme parks, without park-hopping or repeating parks. Visits must start between April 2 and Sept. 22 and end within seven days of the start date.
  • The 3-Day, 3-Park Magic Ticket costs $267, which works out to $89 a day. It includes one day each at EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom, without park-hopping or repeating parks. Admission to Magic Kingdom is not included. Visits must start between April 2 and Sept. 24 and end within five days of the start date.

Your next Disney trip could cost more, depending on when and where you visit

How much does it cost to get into Orlando’s Universal Studios?

One-day, one-park admission to either Universal Studios Florida or Universal Islands of Adventure starts at $119 for guests ages 10 and up.

Universal Orlando Resort is offering a 2-Park Play 4 Days Promotional Ticket starting at $306.99, however, which works out to just under $77 a day. Guests can visit both parks each day. Visits don’t have to be consecutive, but they must all fall within seven days of the start date. The deal is available through the mid-December on the resort’s website.

How can I save money at SeaWorld Orlando?

Non-discounted SeaWorld Orlando tickets cost $139.99, according to the park’s website, which offers various deals throughout the year.

The biggest deal of the year is available through March 24. It's a $60 throwback ticket in honor of SeaWorld’s 60th anniversary, which is March 21.

SeaWorld Orlando, San Antonio and San Diego are offering the specially priced tickets for select dates throughout the year for guests older than 2. Quantities are limited. 

Who gets in free at LEGOLAND Florida?

Admission is free for guests under the age of 2 at LEGOLAND Florida . 

After that, one-day theme park tickets start at $74 online or $119 at the front gate, according to the resort’s website. Admission to neighboring LEGOLAND Water Park or Peppa Pig Theme Park costs extra. There’s also a convenience fee for online purchases.

Travelers with the flexibility to visit by June 14 can get specially priced $29 kids tickets with the purchase of a full-priced multi-park ticket starting at $94. Up to four kids’ tickets, for children ages 2 to 12, can be purchased in one transaction.

Travelers should note LEGOLAND Florida is in Winter Haven, about 50 miles from Orlando.

Is Busch Gardens the most expensive?

No, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is not the most expensive theme park in Central Florida. Its website lists non-discounted tickets at $139.99, tying in price with sister park SeaWorld Orlando. Also, like SeaWorld, Busch Gardens’ website regularly offers discounts. 

Its Spring Break Sale slashes the starting price to $99.99 for guests age 3 and up. The sale runs through March 24. Invariably, another deal will become available after this one expires.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is more than 80 miles from Orlando, but the park operates a free shuttle to and from Orlando for ticketed guests.

best time of year to visit universal studios orlando

The Rides Of Universal Studios Florida, Ranked

W hen going to any theme park like Universal Studios Florida, you want to know what rides are worth the wait and which are best saved for the back of the deck. Well, if you're curious as to what my rankings happen to be, then look no further!

Before we buckle into the ride vehicle, let me be clear: this is a complete and subjective ranking of the rides of Universal Studios Florida. So if you want the list of the best Universal Studios rides , that’s waiting in another queue altogether. 

Also, this guide was written before the summer 2024 opening of DreamWorks Land . Though I more than likely won't be able to ride those attractions, if anything opens that's adult-friendly, I'll update these rankings accordingly. Now that we’ve got those caveats aside, let’s dive into the rides of Universal Studios Florida, ranked from worst to best! 

13. Hogwarts Express - King’s Cross Station

While the Hogwarts Express attraction is one of my favorite Universal Orlando Resort improvements , it’s also the bottom of the barrel when it comes to the rides presented. A huge part of my reasoning for this rank is simply that it’s a screen-based attraction that doesn’t have to be. 

Some may favor this ride more than I do, but I wish it was an immersive tunnel experience rather than totally based on digital trickery. With all of the screens/projections involved, it's an experience that's more confining than it is exciting. 

12. Fast And Furious – Supercharged

Oh, Fast and Furious . Universal Studios Hollywood seems to be building you a proper attraction as we speak thanks to that new roller coaster, but that fact still doesn't cover up the fact that Fast and Furious - Supercharged lived up to its infamous reputation. On the plus side, the cast members enlisted to sell the pre-show narrative are the real MVPs of this ride, so the ride isn't a total loss.

This would have made a better simulator that’s similar to The Simpsons Ride thanks to three different screens of story to follow. Not to mention, the original home of Earthquake! and Disaster! is a ride system that can only provide so much of the adrenaline-charged Fast and Furious excitement you'd expect. Sorry, Dommy, this is what happens when you let Reyes into the garage. 

11. Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon

Full disclosure: Twister: Ride It Out is still one of the Universal rides I wish they’d bring back . But I’m open to new experiences, even if they happen to be total monuments to The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon . This simulator is mild entertainment at best, and there is one key thing you need to keep in mind: if you’re not a Fallon fan, your mileage is going to clearly vary on this pleasure cruise.

I do have to give this attraction one positive note: its replica of the 30 Rock interiors are pretty spot on. It felt like being back in New York for the moment, and that slice of home is undoubtedly the best part of Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon. 

10. Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast

How do you build a first person shooter experience without giving your agents enough room to properly shoot? That’s exactly what happened on Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast. I had to apologize to the same unfortunate woman multiple times, as when I was in the thick of battle, I accidentally kept getting into her personal space. 

On the plus side, the interactivity is quite novel, which makes for more innovation and a less passive experience. Plus, the laser pistols are funky enough that you can recreate Roger Moore’s poster pose from Moonraker very easily.

9. Transformers: The Ride - 3D

When you climb onto a ride like Transformers: The Ride - 3D, you do so hoping to feel like you’re a part of the movie that’s being used as inspiration. I feel this Michael Bay-based attraction embodies both the positive and negative aspects of that concept, as this is, for better or worse , a rideable Transformers movie. 

Maybe it’s because I used my Universal Unlimited Express Pass snagging one of the last rides of the night, but I felt like I missed a lot of the attraction’s lore. I know it’s not terribly complicated, as it’s basically the Autobots and Decepticons playing keep away with another intergalactic macguffin. Still, that didn’t smooth over the feeling of missing some details that would have helped anchor me in that world. 

8. The Simpsons Ride

Putting aside the fact that Back to the Future: The Ride was replaced by The Simpsons Ride, this attraction definitely has its fair share of fun. The wit and the spirit of the long-running Fox TV series is absolutely present in the Springfield U.S.A. section of Universal Studios Florida thanks to the many animated segments shown in the ride queue. 

Which is what makes the actual ride itself a bit of a letdown, as the snark usually reserved for The Simpsons doesn’t easily scale to an attraction of this sort. There are plenty of fun quips and incidents that pepper Sideshow Bob’s quest to kill the beloved animation family, but the sharpness of the series at its best is lost when trying to mix that in with a thrill-a-minute experience.

7. Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts

Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts mixes two of my favorite entertainments: 3D and roller coasters. This totally-immersive experience can be fun, but when you’re not worried about losing your goggles, you’re probably going to wonder what makes this different from Transformers: The Ride - 3D .

Well, for starters, I didn’t feel like using the Universal Unlimited Express Pass robbed me of the ride’s storyline. So while escaping from Gringotts, I certainly didn’t feel like I was scrambling to follow the plot. Also though, the atmospheric effects and the long-overdue love for Domnhall Gleeson’s Bill made this experience the superior Potter playground in Universal Studios Florida.  

6. Kang & Kodos’ Twirl ‘n’ Hurl

Is Kang & Kodos’ Twirl ‘n’ Hurl the most adrenaline-fueled ride at Universal Studios Florida? No, it certainly isn’t, but the reason I love this Simpsons -flavored boardwalk ride is, for the most part, the view. In a theme park that has tons of indoor and screen based experiences, I’ll take any excuse to take in the fresh air.

Plus, the theming centered around two of The Simpsons’ most popular characters that weren’t in Season 1 is another added bonus. Much like The Simpsons Ride, the quippy dialogue goes a long way to bringing back fond memories of when I used to watch the series myself. Unlike that other Krustyland attraction, the ride doesn't crowd our the Simpsons charm, and Doc Brown didn’t have to lose his lab to see it built!

5. Despicable Me Minion Mayhem

Those of you who know me are probably surprised that Despicable Me Minion Mayhem actually cracked my top 5 of Universal Studios Florida rides. But this Despicable Me reminded me of how sweet these movies were before the Minion craze! Also, as far as simulators go, this is possibly the best one in this particular park, as there’s a whiff of banana-scented air as you sail through danger as a Minion yourself.

With Despicable Me 4 on the way to theaters as part of the 2024 movie schedule , I really hope this movie takes a cue from Despicable Me Minion Mayhem. If you can make me emotional about Gru and his family celebrating the anniversary of their adoption, and in the middle of a formerly 3D thrill ride, you’re clearly doing something right. 

4. E.T. Adventure

I need to lay down a very important caveat before praising the E.T. Adventure, as I’m sure plenty of people are wondering how this attraction rose so high. Well, for starters, it’s one of the last opening day attractions left at Universal Studios Florida. That fact carries quite a bit of nostalgic favor, even if the attraction based on one of Steven Spielberg’s best movies needs a massive technical update. 

The theming that recalls Universal Studios’ origins as a theme park focused on moviemaking, and the way this ride captures the E.T. aesthetic, go a long way to sell the importance of the E.T. Adventure’s continued presence. We may not have gotten a cinematic sequel, but this ride lets the world get as close as it possibly can to such a prospect, and in beautiful detail. 

3. Men In Black Alien Attack

Men In Black Alien Attack is another attraction from a bygone era, with Will Smith’s footage on the ride being the aspect that ages it the most. But you know something? I’m ok with that. In fact, I was pretty happy to see this throwback to the era of the original Men in Black movies . 

This attraction still works like a charm, giving people who love Buzz Lightyear’s Astro Blasters at Walt Disney World a similar experience, just with a little more edge. Blasting rogue aliens around New York City hasn’t lost its touch, and neither has the queue theming that so richly invokes the iconic production design of those films. 

2. Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit

One of the things I admire most about Universal Studios Florida is the fact that this park maximizes its space for attractions. There is the downside of requiring a lot of screen-based/indoor experiences to do just that, and I have my fair share of gripes connected to that fact. That said, for a coaster with a limited amount of space to work with, the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit makes my thrill ride loving heart so happy.

The totally vertical lift hill is a novelty, as it almost immediately has you defying the forces of gravity. What follows is a fast, fierce and fantastic attraction that’s only bolstered by the presence of a paired down, but still impressive library of music to use as your own personal soundtrack. That variable, along with the intensity of the ride, is what’ll have me returning to the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit for some time in the future. 

1. Revenge of the Mummy

The promise that Universal Studios Florida was built on was that it was a park where you could “see the stars, and ride the movies.” Even without experiencing the other variations on Revenge of the Mummy, I have to say that the Orlando version is the best one available. 

I say this because it’s the only one that’s based on the concept of a Mummy sequel being visited by the curse of Imothep. So not only do you get a fourth wall-breaking adventure against Arnold Vosloo’s classic baddie, you also get that still-preserved iconic Brendan Fraser moment . 

But what is it that makes Revenge of the Mummy the best Universal Studios Florida ride? Quite frankly, it’s because it’s the ride that touches all the bases of the best aspects of the park. Using limited space and a totally indoor setting, it’s a love letter to Universal’s Mummy movies that mixes the behind-the-scenes charm of Universal Studios Florida 1.0 with the IP-driven focus that the park currently employs.

I'm almost surprised that this was the ride I rode the most during my recent Universal Orlando Resort trip. But then again, this is a ride that puts you in the world of The Mummy . If you know me, you know that's a one-way ticket to excitement.

With that final ranking, I'd like to welcome you all back to the CinemaBlend station house. Please make sure to account for all loose articles and exit to the left! Thank you for taking this ride with us, and make sure to have yourself a blended day! 

 The Rides Of Universal Studios Florida, Ranked

The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter Is Celebrating Butterbeer This Spring, And Universal Studios' Is Opening A Brand New Location To Do It In The Best Way Possible

It’s Butterbeer Season, friends!

Emma Watson, Rupert Grint, and Daniel Radcliffe enjoy some Butterbeer in Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince.

The concept of Butterbeer has been a wildly popular thing, right from the moment the Harry Potter saga became one of the best 2000s movies to hit it big. So when Universal Destinations and Experiences built The Wizarding World of Harry Potter sections in its theme parks, the chance to finally taste that delight was a natural draw.

Over a decade after opening the first location, both the Orlando and Hollywood parks will be celebrating Butterbeer Season for the first time! And if you’re a Universal Studios Hollywood fan, a new location is being opened to commemorate the moment in the best way possible! 

Introducing Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Counter

While both Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Islands of Adventure will be celebrating Butterbeer Season, the California park is where the party’s really at. During this new jubilee, which runs between March 15 and April 30th, the Hollywood contingent of the Wizarding World will be welcoming Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Counter! 

Opening on March 29th at Honeydukes, Harry Potter fans will be able to enjoy a menu of 10 flavors of soft serve ice cream in the Hollywood park. And more than likely, it'll look similar to the location present in Universal Studios Florida; though it will have a unique flavor menu and seems to lack the option of scoop ice cream at the moment. 

Here's what California's variant will be serving on opening day, with the option of a cup or a cone, according to the official press release: 

  • Granny Smith Apple
  • Toffee Apple

As you can see, there’s some new tastes that the Universal Studios Hollywood version of this snacking option. No, your eyes aren't playing tricks on you, as this new location's name is slightly different. Diagon Alley’s Orlando based dispensary of sweet treats is known as Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour; so the suggestion is that this new outlet is going to be a bit smaller, but still as tasty!

Now I know some people prefer to drink their Butterbeer, and that’s totally valid. Some days call for an ice cold glass of the famed Harry Potter creation, and a ”special collectible silver stein” available in both Hollywood and Orlando locations will be on hand to offer just that. 

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But still, who can argue with Butterbeer-flavored soft serve, either right before or after boarding a ride at Universal Studios Hollywood? Well, maybe the folks at Universal Islands of Adventure in Orlando, which has its own unique Butterbeer treat to offer.

Universal Orlando Resort’s Exclusive Butterbeer Treat

I'll fully admit, there is one treat that sometimes rivals my love of ice cream: caramels! So naturally, when reading that Universal Orlando Resort will be the exclusive home for Butterbeer flavored caramels, my heart started to feel conflicted.

While I've never been to Universal Studios Hollywood, the presence of these caramels and last year's new Harry Potter adult beverages has me wanting to return to the Orlando parks first. That's even full well knowing I recently visited Universal Studios Florida for its 2024 Mardi Gras celebration , which has a nice bit of overlap with Butterbeer Season's window of operation!

No matter which park you visit, the story behind Butterbeer is about to get sweeter! So if you want to celebrate Butterbeer Season, head on out to Universal Studios Hollywood or Universal Orlando Resort, and summon this iconic treat in whatever form you prefer. 

Mike Reyes

Mike Reyes is the Senior Movie Contributor at CinemaBlend, though that title’s more of a guideline really. Passionate about entertainment since grade school, the movies have always held a special place in his life, which explains his current occupation. Mike graduated from Drew University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science, but swore off of running for public office a long time ago. Mike's expertise ranges from James Bond to everything Alita, making for a brilliantly eclectic resume. He fights for the user.

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COMMENTS

  1. Universal Orlando Resort

    *Price Varies Daily.Averaged Over 4 Days On an Adult 2-Park Base Ticket.Restrictions Apply. Enjoy Universal Studios OR Islands of Adventure for 4 Days During a 7 Day Usage Window!

  2. Universal Studios Florida Things To Do

    Read reviews and view photos. Find the perfect Orlando tour!

  3. The Best Time to Visit Universal Orlando in 2024 and 2025

    The first week of March is best if you're aiming for warmer weather before the spring break crowds arrive. In 2024, since the spring break season is shorter, mid to late April will also be a great pick! Least Busy. Weekdays in February (minus Presidents Day weekend) Feb. 1-8, 12-13, 26-29, 2024.

  4. Best time of the year to visit Universal Orlando Resort

    We anticipate the busiest times of year to visit the Universal Orlando Resort to be: January 1 to 3 (New Year's) January 15 to 21 (Martin Luther King, Jr. Day) February 19 to 25 (Presidents' Day) Beginning of March to Mid-April (spring break) May to Mid-August (summer break) Thanksgiving week. Christmas week to the New Year.

  5. The Best Time of Year to Visit Universal Orlando

    The next best times of year to visit are the off-seasons in September and October (as a bonus, you can experience the incredible Halloween Horror Nights ), early November (stay away from Thanksgiving), mid-December, April (stay away from Easter) and early May. You will find bigger crowds and higher hotel prices in late May, early June, and late ...

  6. The Best Time to Visit Universal Orlando

    The Best Time to Visit Universal Orlando in January 2024. There are a ton of advantages of visiting Universal in January which include the cool weather, low park crowds, and discounted Universal Orlando tickets.You and your family might even be able to take advantage of visiting the Islands of Adventure or Universal Orlando still decorated for Christmas depending on the week you visit.

  7. Best Time To Visit Universal Studios Orlando (2023 & 2024)

    Best Time Of Year To Visit Universal Studios Orlando In 2023. Given everything here are the best times to visit Universal Studios Orlando in 2023; 9th January - 12th January. 23rd January - 15th February. 27th February - 8th March.

  8. What's the Best Time To Go to Universal? The Best (and ...

    May is likely the best time to visit the Universal Parks in Orlando (photo by James Overholt/HeyOrlando.com) 1. May. The last days of May, leading into the Memorial Day weekend are, in my opinion, the best time of year to visit the parks. It's warm enough to enjoy the full experience but the weather will be closer to reasonable than it will ...

  9. Universal Orlando Trip Planning Guide (2024)

    We have a separate post going in-depth on how much a trip to Universal Orlando costs. While you can spend more or less (again, read the post), our "baseline" estimates for families of different sizes are: Family of Three— $3,850. Family of Four Trip — $4,797. Family of Five — $5,946.

  10. The Best Time to Visit Universal Orlando in 2023 and 2024

    The very best times to visit Universal Orlando in 2023 are ... Jan. 18 - Feb. 15. March 1-10. April 17-30. Weekdays in the first half of May. The second half of August. Most days in September (minus the days around Labor Day) Most weekdays in October (minus the days around Columbus Day)

  11. Best Time To Visit Universal Studios Orlando (2024 & 2025)

    Given everything here are the best times to visit Universal Studios Orlando in 2023; 9th January - 12th January. 23rd January - 15th February. 27th February - 8th March. 28th April - 11th May. 21st August - 31st August. 6th September - 5th October. 11th October - 17th November. 23rd November - 20th December*.

  12. What is the Best Time to Visit Universal Studios Orlando?

    Overall, the best time to visit Universal Studios Orlando is when the weather is cooler and the crowds are fewer. Additionally, be on the lookout for special events hosted at the part in October, November, March, and December. Final Thoughts. The best time to visit Universal Studios Orlando depends on whether you want to avoid the crowds or ...

  13. 4 best times to go to Universal Orlando

    Universal Orlando is enticing any day of the year. Early to mid-January, up until spring break begins (which is usually mid-February). This time frame is great because the temperatures in Florida tend to be a bit cooler, with less humidity. The holiday crowds have packed it up and headed home, and it's just before the spring break crowds ...

  14. Best Time To Visit Orlando Universal Studios: A Guide to Planning Your

    Orlando's Universal Studios is a popular destination for tourists all year round, but the best time to visit the park can depend on a variety of factors. ... The best time to visit Universal Studios Orlando in terms of weather is during the winter months, from December to February. The weather is mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ...

  15. Best Times to Visit Universal Orlando

    Holidays at Universal Orlando. The Holiday season at Universal Orlando may just be this Professor's favorite time to visit! From Christmas in the Wizarding World to Grinchmas and all the festivities in between, you won't want to miss it! Let's explore a few of the highlights of visiting during this time of year.

  16. The Best Time To Visit Universal Studios Orlando

    The time of year you visit the Universal Orlando Resort is going to have the most significant impact on the park crowd levels. The difference between visiting Universal Studios at the end of July to the middle of September is typically the difference between waiting 120 minutes for the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit or 35 minutes, or 80 minutes for ...

  17. When Is The Best Time To Visit Universal Studios?

    Universal Orlando Resort is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. It's estimated that more than 20 million people per year visit the resort — which includes the Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure theme parks, the Volcano Bay water park, and the CityWalk shopping, dining and entertainment complex.

  18. Best day of the week to visit Universal Orlando Resort

    How to find the best time to visit Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, Volcano Bay, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. ... If you're buying a single-day pass, you'll first need to know which day of the year you'll be visiting Universal Orlando - the resort moved to date-based ticket pricing in August 2020, which means ...

  19. Best Times to Visit Universal Orlando

    There are a few other times of the year that we especially love to visit the Universal Orlando Resort. These other two options are largely due to the crowds and the weather during the time of year. January. In January, the weather in central Florida can be a little unpredictable but if you are looking to avoid the heat, this is a great option!

  20. 2024 Universal Studios Orlando Crowd Calendar: Avoid the Busy Days!

    Best Time to Go to Universal Studios Florida at a Glance: The best months to visit Universal Orlando Resort to avoid the crowds are: late-January and early-February. Your best days to visit Universal Orlando Resort are: Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Be sure to avoid all major holidays such as: Memorial Day, 4th of July , Labor Day Weekend, Halloween ...

  21. Best Times to Go to Universal Studios Orlando

    January - February: This is historically the least crowded time of the year to visit Universal Studios Orlando. Though crowds increase on holiday weekends like Martin Luther King Jr. Day - the third Monday in January, and President's Day - the third Monday in February. Otherwise, this is an ideal time to visit the park.

  22. Best Time to Go to Universal

    The busiest times to visit Universal Orlando are: The week of Thanksgiving. The week between Christmas and New Year's. Spring break season (the beginning of March through Easter Sunday). These are the times when most children are on school breaks, and many adults also have off work.

  23. The Best Day of the Week to Visit Universal Studios Orlando & Best Time

    One of the most common questions when planning their Orlando vacation is what are the best days to visit Universal Studios Orlando in ... The cheaper the tickets the more likely it is that the parks won't be as crowded during that time of year. Best Days to Visit Universal Orlando in 2024 By Ticket Pricing. Month: Date: Day of Week: August: 8 ...

  24. The Best Time to Visit Orlando

    Find out the best time to visit Orlando, including weather details, events to check out and when to go to avoid crowds. ... August is the hottest month of the year in Orlando, so try to stay inside when the sun is strongest—between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. ... like Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios (definitely not for kids) and Mickey ...

  25. The 2024 Cheapest Time to Visit Universal Orlando

    Our calendar helps by being the cheapest way to book Universal Studios Orlando tickets by showing the cheapest times. Since ticket prices change daily, the calendar will show the cost of a one-day ticket. Related Page: Transportation from MCO to Universal Orlando 2024 Cheapest Time of Year to Visit Universal Orlando FAQ

  26. Universal Orlando Has a Major Controversy on Its Hands

    The company is in its final year of construction for Epic Universe, an all-new theme park that will open in the summer of 2025, and there are many insiders who believe Universal Studios Orlando ...

  27. Cheap Universal Studios, Disney World tickets: Deals under $100 a day

    One-day, one-park admission to either Universal Studios Florida or Universal Islands of Adventure starts at $119 for guests ages 10 and up. Universal Orlando Resort is offering a 2-Park Play 4 ...

  28. The Rides Of Universal Studios Florida, Ranked

    11. Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon. Full disclosure: Twister: Ride It Out is still one of the Universal rides I wish they'd bring back.But I'm open to new experiences, even if ...

  29. The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter Is Celebrating Butterbeer This

    The concept of Butterbeer has been a wildly popular thing, right from the moment the Harry Potter saga became one of the best 2000s movies to hit it big. So when Universal Destinations and ...