Universal is one of the top attractions in my hometown Orlando, Florida. I was fortunate enough to be a Universal Passholder, so I went a lotttttt. One of my favorite times of the year was Halloween Horror Nights. So in honor of that, I thought I’d make a tips guide for people who will be going there for the first time.
** these tips are not applicable to the California Universal
- Wear Comfortable Shoes – The park is big, but it is manageable in one day. You will be walking for hours, so your Fitbit will be very proud. But you must know, it’s Florida, and it’s hot. Too hot to be leaning on your friends cause your feet are tired, so pack smart.
- *Bring a Poncho or Umbrella*- While Florida claims to be the Sunshine state, it is lying. It’ll rain pretty much every day in the summer, and you are not trying to pay $15 for a 30-minute rain storm. Don’t get caught soaked in the rain.
- Eat in Citywalk versus the Park – It is more expensive, but you are worth it. The quality and variety of food are better. Also, the refillable bottle deal makes sense if you are staying in the park for multiple hours.
- App Attack – Download the Universal Studios App or Wait Time App in advance. Look at which rides you really want to get on, and base your day around those wait times. You don’t want to be disappointed because the ride you wanted has a two-hour wait and you are leaving in one. Beware not all lines are the same. The newer rides have virtual lines that you will have to reserve online before hand.
- Lines Doin the Most – The lines can be brutal so make sure you have a game like Heads Up on your phone, or my favorite Charades (because it is free,) to pass the time. But these apps kill your battery, so make sure you bring a Portable Charger. Worst comes worst, Universal brings out the child in everybody, so you can pass the time with slide, never have I ever, would you rather, or a similar game. If the lines are still too much for you the Universal Express Pass is worth it.
Bonus Tip for Halloween Horror Nights – If you travel in groups through the houses and make a Congo line it’ll be way more fun. Beware of excitement and screaming in your ears that may come from this strategy 🙂
Teen Traveler 