Universal Orlando

Like all of Central Florida, the climate at Universal Orlando is humid and subtropical. Summer (May–October) is hot and sticky and winter (November–April) is mild and drier. Visitors from higher latitudes are often surprised by the sheer intensity of the summer sun in Florida, which can rise to within a few degrees of straight overhead in June and July. In June through September, late afternoon thundershowers are very common; plan accordingly.

Inclement weather can often lead to the temporary closure of outdoor rides and live performances. In the case of rides, they will re-open after the weather improves. Live performances may be either delayed or canceled outright. On the other hand, inclement weather could work to your advantage, as it drives some visitors away from outdoor areas, or out of the parks entirely.

There used to be some times of year when the parks were relatively deserted, but not so much anymore. Now they just vary from "moderately busy" to "completely insane". Still, deciding when to go remains a game of trade-offs: you must decide whether to favor lower crowds or longer park hours, and decide whether you prefer scorching days or chilly nights.

The peak periods for attendance are late December, mid-June to mid-August, and mid-February to mid-April. Why? That's when kids are on break from school. If you have kids, you may have no choice but to go during these peak times. The bad news is that you'll be packed like sardines next to 50,000 of your new closest friends, you'll wait two hours to go on rides like Forbidden Journey, Rip Ride Rockit, and Transformers, and you'll be paying a premium for the privilege. In the summer, you also get to listen to the kids complain about the heat. On the bright side, you'll have plenty of company, the parks are guaranteed to be open late, and almost every ride will be up and running.

If your schedule allows any flexibility at all, you should avoid these peak periods. Attendance is lowest in October, November (pre-Thanksgiving), December (pre-Christmas), and January. These can be very good times to go; crowds are low and prices are too, but keep in mind that you may find that several rides are shut down for maintenance, and the parks have shorter operating hours. In the winter, it's often too cold to go to the water parks, and you'll need a jacket at night.

Be aware, however, during the periods of mid-December to February, mid-June to July, during the first 2-3 weeks of October, and on Thanksgiving Day (in some cases), tour groups from South American countries, mainly from Brazil and Argentina, will invade Universal Orlando and other Orlando theme parks (including Disney). Many guests have complained of rudeness and improper supervision. There may be some groups that may not be as problematic as everyone could think, but still, if you see or hear a group of teens behind one or more 20- to 30-year-old adult(s) with a flag, your best bet is to go in the opposite direction.

The weeks between Easter and Memorial Day are another slow period, as well as the months of August and September; both periods provide a good balance of price, crowds, temperature, and operating hours, but you may need to take the kids out of school if you're bringing them along.

Of course, you may want to coordinate your trip with a special event such as Halloween Horror Nights.

If your vacation dates are flexible, plan to arrive to the Orlando area on Thursday. Both Friday and Saturday are transition days for park visitors and less crowded, especially in the summer months. Saturdays do draw in more Annual Pass holders to the park, but that is the major day that people either arrive or leave the area. This causes attendance figures to be down, making it a perfect day to visit the parks. If you are planning to have a day of rest in your vacation, by arriving on Thursday you can enjoy two days of parks with reduced crowds and then use Sunday to rest.

To fill this unused capacity, Universal Orlando holds crowd-drawing special events on some weekends (F-Su). The above advice is not good for these event weekends. Consult a crowd calendar for your planning.

Most visitors fly into Orlando International Airport (MCO ^IATA), +1 407-825-2001. It's served by every major US airline and a wide variety of international carriers. Once there, you can rent a car, take a taxi, or order a limo or town car. If you're staying at an on-site Universal hotel, another option is Universal's Superstar Shuttle, a free bus service from the airport to all six resort hotels. Prior reservations are required. If driving yourself, Florida State Road 528 links the airport with Interstate 4, and heading northbound on that highway leads directly to Universal.

Orlando-Sanford International Airport (SFB ^IATA is a bit farther from Universal than Orlando International. Aside from domestic flights on Allegiant Air, the airport primarily handles flights from the United Kingdom and Iceland, and Universal's Superstar Shuttle is not available here. Florida State Road 417 connects the airport to Interstate 4.

Interstate 4 is the most direct driving route to Universal Orlando, passing just south of the resort. Depending on your point of origin, Florida's Turnpike can be quite useful, particularly if you're driving north from the Miami area. If you're coming from a cruise at Port Canaveral, Florida State Road 528 gets you to I-4, with Orlando International Airport and the Turnpike en route.

Amtrak's Silver Service Miami–New York City routes serve Orlando four times daily, with two trains in either direction. Northbound trains from Miami arrive at the Orlando station at 1:43PM and 7:08PM; southbound trains from NYC arrive at 10:17AM and 12:55PM. The Auto Train, which can carry both passengers and automobiles, serves nearby Sanford non-stop from Lorton, Virginia (near Washington, D.C.).

If you are coming from Volusia, Seminole, or northern Osceola counties on a weekday and want to avoid I-4 traffic, your best option is SunRail, which runs between DeBary and Poinciana. There is no service on weekends and some federal holidays (for example, Thanksgiving and Christmas Day), and the trains run every 30 minutes during rush hour periods, and every 2 hours during off peak periods. The closest station to Universal is at Sand Lake Road in Orlando, however, a taxi or ridesharing service will be needed to complete the journey. For convenience, take the train to Lynx Central Station in downtown Orlando and take Lynx bus routes 21, 38, or 40 to Universal. You may also disembark at the Orlando Health/Orlando Amtrak station and board Lynx bus route 40 from there.

Universal's Superstar Shuttle is a very popular option for guests staying at Universal resort hotels; it provides transportation to and from the airport. Be sure to book service ahead of time! It costs about $39 per adult, each way.

If you're not staying at a Universal resort, or aren't coming in via Orlando International, you do have some other choices. Mears Transportation is the main player in the region; they have a fleet of shuttle buses and town cars that can take you to any of the local attractions or hotels.

Long-distance bus company Greyhound serves Orlando at their Orlando Terminal, ☏ +1 407-292-3424.

LYNX is the public bus service of the Central Florida Regional Transportation Authority. Four LYNX routes provide service between Universal Orlando and the surrounding area. All pick-up and drop-off from the Universal Orlando Parking Garage bus stop, next to the guest drop-off loop on the walkway between the parking garages and CityWalk.

• Regular routes:
  • Route 21, from Universal inbound to Lynx Central Station in downtown Orlando and outbound to Sand Lake Commons. This is the one of four connectors to SunRail at Lynx Central Station.
  • Route 37, from Universal northbound to Park Promenade Plaza near and southbound to the Florida Mall.
  • Route 38, from Universal southbound to International Drive and Destination Parkway, and Northbound non-stop express to Lynx Central Station in downtown Orlando.
  • Route 40, from Universal inbound to Lynx Central Station. This is the other connector to SunRail. (The outbound route for this line only goes one stop further, to the Universal Employee Center; make sure you don't go to this stop!)
  • Route 303, is a commuter route with very limited service, running from Universal to different locations throughout Orlando and Walt Disney World, specifically servicing Disney Springs.

Universal Studios Florida allow guests to utilize the "Universal Express Plus" Pass on selected attractions. This pass admits users to a separate line for the attraction, which is given priority status when boarding. Guests of Universal's three on-site resorts may show their room keys for unlimited uses of the faster line for each ride.

Universal Express is not included in park admission. There are a limited number of passes available each day and they are often sold out in advance. The cost of the pass varies based on what parks are selected and even what day is selected, with higher prices charged on peak operating days during the year.

If staying at Portofino Bay, Royal Pacific Resort or the Hard Rock Hotel then free Universal Express is available at kiosk in the lobby with your room key.

Universal Studios Florida features seven themed areas, all situated around a large lagoon. Clockwise from the entrance, they are Production Central, New York, San Francisco, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley, World Expo, Springfield: Home of the Simpsons, Woody Woodpecker's Kidzone and Hollywood. Each area features a combination of rides, shows, attractions, character appearances, dining outlets and merchandise stores.

The main entryway, with a stately movie studio arch standing as grand entrance to the central area of the park. Stores line the pathway in the front half of the land, while large-scale motion simulator and "4-D" multisensory rides dominate the back half.

• 🌍 Despicable Me Minion Mayhem. On this 4-D motion simulator ride, step into Gru's mansion as you prepare to become one of his Minions. Of course, things go wrong and a madcap adventure through his super villain lair ensues with Gru, Margo, Edith and Agnes at your side. (updated Aug 2020)
• 🌍 Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit. Pick your own song to listen to as your soar through the air on this heart-stopping roller coaster, featuring a 90-degree lift and top speeds of 65mph. At the end of the ride, take home a memory of your experience as a photo or music video. (updated Nov 2021)
• 🌍 TRANSFORMERS: The Ride-3D. Step aboard your motion simulator vehicle and race through this dark ride that puts you right in the middle of a battle between the Autobots and the Decepticons. Don't worry, only the fate of the entire world hangs in the balance. (updated Jan 2022)
• 🌍 Shrek 4-D. A 4-D original mini movie that takes place between the events of Shrek and Shrek 2, with all of your favorite characters returning (and featuring the original voice cast!). (updated Jul 2018)

An extremely detailed "backlot" replica of New York City circa 1940. Wander the streets and alleyways of this neon-covered land and peer in the shop windows to find interesting surprises. The Blues Brothers arrive in the iconic "Bluesmobile" and perform multiple times a day from their stage on one of the land's streets.

• 🌍 Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon. Jimmy Fallon, the host of NBC's Tonight Show, leads this race through New York in specialized "Tonight Rider" vehicles. It features a state-of-the-art "Virtual Line" system where instead of waiting in a long queue to ride, the line is virtual and alerts guests as their time to ride nears. (updated Jun 2020)
• 🌍 Revenge of The Mummy. Starting out as a spooky dark ride through the ancient Egyptian tomb of the 1999 "Mummy" starring Brendan Frasier, you'll come face to face with the namesake Imohtep, before catapulting away from his curses as the ride turns into a full-throttle roller coaster! (updated Jul 2018)

A small waterfront area that captures the feel of San Francisco's Embarcadero and Fisherman's Wharf. Marvel at the full-sized lighted replica of the city's iconic Ghirardelli factory and rooftop sign. Unfortunately, there's no chocolate within!

• Fast & Furious – Supercharged. Plunge into the middle of the action alongside Dom, Letty, and Hobbs. Check out the cars from the long-running movie series and escape from the bad guys as you race through the city streets. (updated Jul 2018)

The second land of Universal's explosively popular Harry Potter themed areas, Diagon Alley captures the excitement of the secret London neighborhood where wizards escape the city to shop, drink, and discuss the news and matters of the day. Just as in the films, the alley is hidden behind the apartments of shops of London, and can only be accessed by traveling through a magical brick wall!

• 🌍 Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts. The flagship ride of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, a dramatic and exciting adventure through the Gringotts vaults, where several of the main characters (and a dragon) make appearances. (updated May 2023)
• Hogwarts Express: King's Cross Station. (updated Jul 2018)

A mini land containing a single ride, lightly themed to the 1964 World's Fair at Flushing Meadows Park in Queens, which was also the setting of the climactic final battle of the Men in Black film.

• 🌍 Men in Black Alien Attack. Riders shoot aliens in a Men in Black training exercise gone wrong. Earn points for shooting the aliens and pushing the red button at the right time. (updated Nov 2021)

Step inside the town from the long-running Fox animated series and visit the restaurants and stores that have become part of American pop culture. You might even see members of this famous yellow family strolling about! D'oh!

• Kang & Kodos' Twirl 'n' Hurl. (updated Jan 2022)
• 🌍 The Simpsons Ride. In the spirit of The Simpsons, this ride almost feels like a parody of theme parks. It's a motion simulator with the premise that Sideshow Bob has taken over Krustyland as part of an evil scheme, and lots of characters from Springfield make an appearance. (updated Apr 2023)

• E.T. Adventure. This ride, a gentle alien adventure story loosely inspired by E.T., dates back to the grand opening of Universal Studios Florida. It pales in comparison to some of the newer rides, but it still has some charm, is not scary, and has one or two fun surprises. (updated Apr 2023)

Themed to classic Hollywood, this land is without any rides following the closure of Terminator 2: 3-D in 2017. A new ride for this area is in the works!

• The Bourne Stuntacular. (updated May 2023)

Universal's Islands of Adventure features nine distinctly themed "islands" circling a central lagoon. The islands, going in clockwise order from the Port of Entry through which guests enter, consist Marvel Superhero Island, Toon Lagoon, Skull Island: Reign of Kong, Jurassic Park, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, The Lost Continent, and Seuss Landing.

• 🌍 Doctor Doom's Fearfall. (updated Aug 2020)
• 🌍 Storm Force Accelatron. (updated Jul 2018)
• 🌍 The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man. (updated Aug 2020)
• 🌍 The Incredible Hulk Coaster. (updated Jul 2018)

• 🌍 Dudley Do-Right's Ripsaw Falls. (updated Jul 2018)
• Popeye & Bluto's Bilge-Rat Barges. (updated Jul 2018)

• 🌍 Skull Island: Reign of Kong. (updated Aug 2020)

• Camp Jurassic. an outdoor dinosaur-themed playground where children can encounter animatronic velociraptors and explore lava pits, caves, mines and a rainforest. 
• Jurassic Park River Adventure. (updated Jul 2018)
• Pteranodon Flyers. (updated Jul 2018)

• 🌍 Flight of the Hippogriff. The gentlest of the Harry Potter roller coasters. A fairly short (1-minute) outdoor ride without much of a story. (updated Apr 2023)
• 🌍 Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. A fast-paced adventure flying through Hogwarts and its grounds, featuring many characters and memorable elements out of the books and movies, from Hagrid to Quidditch. The mix of humor, excitement, and nostalgia will be a joy for Harry Potter fans. The ride is partly but not entirely a motion simulator, but be warned, some visitors find the rolling motion to be nausea-inducing. (updated May 2023)
• Hogwarts Express: Hogsmeade Station. (updated Jul 2018)
• 🌍 Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. You'll sit on Hagrid's motorcycle or in the sidecar for this outdoor roller coaster. More intense than the other Harry Potter rides. (updated May 2023)

• Poseidon's Fury. (updated Jul 2018)

• Caro-Seuss-el. A carousel with all sorts of fantastical Seuss-esque creatures. (updated Apr 2023)
• One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish. (updated Jul 2018)
• The Cat in the Hat. Ride that retells the classic Seuss story. Suitable for young kids and nostalgic adults. (updated Jul 2018)
• The High in the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride!. Very gentle ride with views of the Dr. Seuss area of the park, set to narration loosely inspired by And to Think that I Saw It on Mulberry Street. (updated Apr 2023)

• Hollywood Dive-in Mini Golf is a 1950s drive-in-movie-themed mini golf facility containing two mini golf courses.
• The Blue Man Group a live show with daily performances
• Universal Cinemark, ☏ +1 407 354-3374. You probably didn't come all the way to Orlando just to go to a movie theater, but it's a way to relax after an energetic day on the rides, or to enjoy yourself if it's rainy out. (updated May 2023)

• Diagon Alley – the main part of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter (the smaller Hogsmeade section is in Islands of Adventure), hidden behind a brick wall in the "London" area of the park. The whimsical storefronts are a delight for fans of the series, and the attention to detail means that a walk around the area will reveal lots of interesting touches. If you turn the corner near the Leaky Cauldron you'll find yourself in dim, eerie Knockturn Alley, and don't miss the dragon atop Gringotts Bank that breathes fire every ten minutes.
• 🌍 The Knight Bus. (updated May 2023)

The Universal Music Plaza Stage live concerts:

• Rock the Universe is the park's Christian music festival, featuring two days in September of concerts with leading contemporary Christian, Christian rock, and Christian rap artists live at The Universal Music Plaza Stage in the Production Central.
• Summer Concert Series occurs annually and features a variety of popular music acts performing live at The Universal Music Plaza Stage in the Production Central.

• Macy's Holiday Parade brings some authentic balloons from the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade to Orlando in a month-long event in December that highlights the Christmas celebrations at the park.
• Mardi Gras Generally in February through to April, a parade and concert series inspired by New Orleans' Fat Tuesday party is held at the park.
• Universal's Superstar Parade is a daily parade at Universal Studios Florida; it features a lot of kid-friendly characters such as SpongeBob, Dora, Minions, etc.

Halloween Horror Nights turns the park into a giant haunted playground, including scare zones, numerous haunted houses and special themed shows. The event is run annually in late September and October.

• Hogsmeade – the smaller portion of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, a recreation of the wizarding village of Hogsmeade complete with snowy rooftops and crooked chimneys. A stunning recreation of Hogwarts Castle hosts the "Forbidden Journey" ride and has outdoor light shows each evening around dusk (times vary by season).
• Seuss Landing – when you reach this part of the park, pause to take in the Seussical landscape. Even the real plants in this area look like something out of the classic picture books.

• 🌍 Universal Studios Globe. Its popularity as a selfie spot means that you might have to wait in line for a photo. To avoid the wait, try taking your photo from across the water with the globe in the background. Then the globe may look less prominent, but you'll capture other parts of CityWalk in the photo too. (updated Apr 2023)

Production Central:

• Universal Studios Store
• Studio Sweets
• It's a Wrap!
• Super Silly Stuff
• Shrek's Ye Olde Souvenir Shoppe

New York:

• Sahara Traders
• Aftermath
• Rosie's Irish Shop

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley:

• Borgin and Burkes. Creepy souvenirs such as Death Eater masks sold in the dimly lit Knockturn Alley. (updated Apr 2023)
• Gringotts Money Exchange
• Madam Malkin's Robes for All Occasions
• Ollivanders Wand Shop. Not just a wand shop but an interactive show as well – you'll be allowed in with a group of other visitors, and Ollivander chooses one member of the crowd for a wand selection ceremony. (This little performance is well worth watching, but if you want to skip it, you can go into the shop from the other side without meeting Ollivander.) And the wands for sale are not just souvenirs: they can be used at various locations in Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade to do magic. Each wand's box comes with a map of these sections of the park and instructions for how to cast spells. Not a joke – the wand motions really make things happen! Some of the spells can be a bit tricky so they may take several tries, but don't give up. (updated Apr 2023)
• Quality Quidditch Supplies. All sorts of Quidditch-related souvenirs, including house jerseys and broomsticks. (updated Apr 2023)
• Sugarplum's Sweetshop
• Wands by Gregorovitch. A smaller wand shop, naturally less popular than Ollivanders. (updated Apr 2023)
• Weasley's Wizard Wheezes. Fred and George's joke shop, also selling quirky sweets. (updated Apr 2023)
• Wiseacre's Wizarding Equipment

Springfield:

• Kwik-E-Mart. Recreation of the convenience store from The Simpsons, complete with enormous pink donuts and (non-alcoholic) Duff beer for sale. (updated Apr 2023)

World Expo:

• MIB Gear

Woody Woodpecker's Kidzone:

• The Barney Store
• E.T.'s Toy Closet
• SpongeBob StorePants

Hollywood:

• Cyber Image
• Theatre Magic

Jurassic Park:

The Lost Continent:

Marvel Superhero Island:

Port of Entry:

Seuss Landing:

• All the Books You Can Read. Assorted Dr. Seuss paraphernalia, including lots of picture books (Seuss's own as well as later imitators). (updated Apr 2023)
• Cats, Hats, and Things
• Mulberry Street Store
• Snookers and Snookers Sweet Candy Cookers. Candy shop. (updated Apr 2023)

Toon Lagoon:

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley:

• Dervish and Banges
• Filch's Emporium of Confiscated Goods
• Gladrags Wizardwear
• Honeydukes – candy store. The adjacent Zonko's Joke Shop is just a storefront, so head to Weasley's Wizard Wheezes in Diagon Alley for practical joke themed items.
• Ollivanders Wand Shop in Hogsmeade – similar to the wand shop in Diagon Alley (see above)
• Owl Post & Owlery

• Ben & Jerry's. (updated Jul 2018)
• Beverly Hills Boulangerie (Production Central). (updated Jul 2018)
• Bone Chillin'. (updated Jul 2018)
• Duff Brewery (Springfield). (updated Jul 2018)
• Eternelle's Elixir of Refreshment (Wizarding World - Diagon Alley). (updated Jul 2018)
• Flaming Moe's (Springfield). (updated Jul 2018)
• Florean Fortescue's Ice-Cream Parlour. (updated Jul 2018)
• The Fountain of Fair Fortune. (updated Jul 2018)
• The Hopping Pot. (updated Jul 2018)
• Lard Lad Donuts. (updated Jul 2018)
• Lisa's Teahouse of Horror. (updated Jul 2018)
• Moe's Tavern. (updated Jul 2018)
• San Francisco Pastry Company. (updated Jul 2018)
• Schwab's Pharmacy. (updated Jul 2018)
• Starbucks. Su-Th 7AM-midnight, F Sa 7AM-1AM. The premier global Seattle-based coffeehouse, offering a wide range of coffee beverages, smoothies, teas, and breakfast and lunch options. (updated Jul 2018)

• Bumblebee Man's Taco Truck. (updated Jul 2018)
• Chez Alcatraz. (updated Jul 2018)
• Cletus' Chicken Shack. (updated Jul 2018)
• The Frying Dutchman. (updated Jul 2018)
• KidZone Pizza Company. (updated Jul 2018)
• Krusty Burger. (updated Jul 2018)
• 🌍 Leaky Cauldron. The food is subpar, but come for the Harry Potter atmosphere and for the butterbeer. The Leaky Cauldron and the Three Broomsticks are the only two places in the park that offer a dairy-free/vegan version of the cream on top of the butterbeer. (updated Apr 2023)
• Louie's Italian Restaurant. (updated Jul 2018)
• Luigi's Pizza. (updated Jul 2018)
• Mel's Drive-In. (updated Jul 2018)
• 🌍 Richter's Burger Co.. Burgers and similar. To skip waiting in line, seat yourself and order from the Universal App (the app will ask for your table number; if you don't see a number on the table, ask a staff member). Vegan option available. (updated May 2023)
• Universal Studios' Classic Monsters Cafe. (updated Jul 2018)

• Finnegan's Bar & Grill. (updated Jul 2018)
• Lombard's Seafood Grille. (updated Jul 2018)
• Cafe La Bamba. (updated Jul 2018)

• Halloween Horror Nights Scareactor Dining Experience. (updated Jul 2018)

• Backwater Bar. (updated Jul 2018)
• Cathy's Ice Cream. (updated Jul 2018)
• Chill Ice Cream. (updated Jul 2018)
• Cinnabon. Su-Th 7:30AM-midnight, F Sa 7:30AM-1AM. Classic chain bakery serving up hot cinnamon rolls, "Cinnabon Stix", and other treats all day. (updated Jul 2018)
• Croissant Moon Bakery. (updated Jul 2018)
• Hog's Head. (updated Jul 2018)
• Hop on Pop Ice Cream Shop. (updated Jul 2018)
• Moose Juice, Goose Juice. (updated Jul 2018)
• Starbucks. Su-Th 7AM-midnight, F Sa 7AM-1AM. The premier global Seattle-based coffeehouse, offering a wide range of coffee beverages, smoothies, teas, and breakfast and lunch options. (updated Jul 2018)
• The Watering Hole. (updated Jul 2018)

• Blondie's. (updated Jul 2018)
• The Burger Digs. (updated Jul 2018)
• Cafe 4. (updated Jul 2018)
• Captain America Diner. (updated Jul 2018)
• Circus McGurkus Cafe Stoo-pendous. (updated May 2023)
• Comic Strip Cafe. (updated Jul 2018)
• Fire Eater's Grill. (updated Jul 2018)
• Green Eggs and Ham Cafe. Dr. Seuss themed hash browns with creative toppings. Vegan option available. (updated Apr 2023)
• Pizza Predattoria. (updated Jul 2018)
• Three Broomsticks. The food is subpar, but come for the ambience of a pub from the world of Harry Potter. It has multiple types of butterbeer (including a dairy-free/vegan version of the cream on top). (updated Apr 2023)
• Thunder Falls Terrace. (updated Jul 2018)
• Whimpy's. (updated Jul 2018)

• Confisco Grille. (updated Jul 2018)
• Mythos Restaurant. Named best theme park restaurant in the world by Theme Park Insider. Reserve in advance. (updated Apr 2023)

• The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast. (updated Jul 2018)
• Marvel Character Dinner. (updated Jul 2018)

• Cinnabon. Su-Th 7:30AM-midnight, F Sa 7:30AM-1AM. Classic chain bakery serving up hot cinnamon rolls, "Cinnabon Stix", and other treats all day. (updated Jul 2018)
• Cold Stone Creamery. Su-Th 10AM-midnight, F Sa 10AM-1:30aAMm. Spot for ice cream, smoothies, and shakes with a variety of toppings mixed in on, yes, cold stone slabs. (updated Jul 2018)
• Fat Tuesday. Daily 3PM-1:45AM. From Bourbon Street direct to Orlando, frozen daiquiris and other drinks are crafted at this walk-up counter in a rainbow of colors and flavors. (updated Jul 2018)
• Lone Palm Airport. Daily 10:30AM-1AM. Set under the wings of Jimmy Buffett's seaplane, this tiki bar set beside the lake serves up margaritas and frozen drinks, and also offers a menu of small bites. (updated Jul 2018)
• Menchie's frozen yogurt. Su-Th 11AM-midnight, F Sa 11AM-1AM. A great spot to fill your bowl with a wide array of frozen yogurt flavors and countless toppings. (updated Jul 2018)
• Starbucks. Su-Th 7AM-midnight, F Sa 7AM-1AM. The global Seattle-based coffeehouse, offering a wide range of coffee beverages, smoothies, teas, and breakfast and lunch options. (updated Jul 2018)
• Voodoo Doughnut. Su-Th 7AM-midnight, F Sa 7AM-1AM. This Oregon-born gourmet donut chain's first East Coast outpost features the delicious deserts that grew a cult following at the original spot. (updated Jul 2018)

• 🌍 Bread Box Handcrafted Sandwiches (upper level). Su-Th 10:30AM-midnight, F Sa 10:30AM-1AM. Classic deli sandwiches and hot melts are served up alongside soups, salads, and desserts. Vegan option available. $8-15. (updated Jul 2018)
• Burger King Whopper Bar. Su-Th 9AM-11PM, F Sa 9AM-midnight. The famous Whoppers are assembled in front of you with a choice of over 20 different toppings at this concept joint from BK. (updated Jul 2018)
• Fusion Bistro Sushi & Sake Bar. Su-Th 11AM-midnight, F Sa 11AM-2AM. Counter offering made-to-order fresh Japanese fusion dishes including sushi, bento boxes, dumplings, and beef skewers. Pick up a fruit-infused sake to complete the meal! (updated Jul 2018)
• Hot Dog Hall of Fame. Su-Th 11AM-midnight, F Sa 11AM-1AM. A unique array of hot dogs from around the country, including the New York dogs with sauerkraut and authentic Milwaukee bratwurst. Seating is stadium-style and the place even has artificial turf to complete the baseball-themed experience! (updated Jul 2018)
• Moe's Southwest Grill. Su-Th 10:30AM-midnight, F Sa 10:30AM-1AM. Inventive Tex-Mex dishes are made in front of your eyes at this counter-serve joint. (updated Jul 2018)
• Panda Express. Su-Th 11AM-11PM, F Sa 11AM-midnight. The classic fast good Chinese restaurant, with all of the traditional dishes, including their famous Orange Chicken. (updated Jul 2018)
• Red Oven Pizza Bakery. Su-Th 10:30AM-1AM, F Sa 10:30AM-1:30AM. Build your own personalized pie and watch as chefs toss it into a piping hot stone oven to cook it in just around 90 seconds! (updated Jul 2018)

• Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food. Su-Th 3PM-midnight, F Sa 3PM-1AM. Mexican street fare is offered up at this large, lively, and colorful restaurant. Sit in comfort as live Mariachi music serenades diners on select nights. (updated Jul 2018)
• Bob Marley–A Tribute to Freedom. Daily 3PM-2AM. Sit inside a lovingly-constructed replica of Bob Marley's home in Kingston, Jamaica as you chow down on Jamaican food including oxtail stew, jerk chicken, and yucca fries. The open-air courtyard also contains artifacts and photos of Marley as video clips play on TVs. (updated Jul 2018)
• Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Restaurant & Market. Daily 11AM-midnight. Shrimp is served in countless varieties, just like Bubba explained in the seminal film "Forrest Gump". Southern fare and seafood is the name of the game here, along with memorabilia from the movie. (updated Jul 2018)
• 🌍 Hard Rock Cafe Orlando. (updated Apr 2023)
• 🌍 Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville. (updated Apr 2023)
• NBC Sports Grill & Brew. Daily 10:30AM-1AM. A cavernous sports bar with nearly 100 HD screens covering everything from football to volleyball, along with an elevated menu of American food and bottles and drafts ranging from local stars to unique imports. (updated Jul 2018)
• Pat O'Brien's. Daily 4PM-2AM. This New Orleans import serves classic Cajun cuisine and the famed Hurricane drinks straight from Bourbon Street. After 5PM, musicians take the stage and perform tunes on the iconic dueling pianos. $10-18, $7 cover after 10PM (must be age 21+). (updated Jul 2018)
• The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar. (updated Jul 2018)
• 🌍 The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen. Looks like a whimsical candy factory out of a movie. It serves meals too, but the focus is on desserts, especially milkshakes big enough to share. One vegan milkshake available. (updated Apr 2023)
• 🌍 VIVO Italian Kitchen, ☏ +1 407-224-3663. Daily 3PM-midnight. Stylish, modern restaurant serving up classic Italian recipes from pizza to pasta out of an open kitchen. A wide variety of vintage wines, Italian-influenced cocktails are also offered by the full bar. (updated Jan 2022)

• CityWalk's Rising Star. Daily 8PM-2AM. Bar and karaoke club that features backup singers and even a live band! A nightly host keeps the crowd energized. (Pre-recorded music only is offered Sunday and Monday.) Su-Th ages 18+, F Sa ages 21+. $7 cover, no charge to sing. (updated Jul 2018)
• Fat Tuesday. Daily 3PM-1:45AM. From Bourbon Street to Orlando, frozen daiquiris and other drinks are crafted at this walk-up counter in a rainbow of colors and flavors. (updated Jul 2018)
• the groove. Daily 9PM-2AM. Multi-level state of the art dance club featuring various unique themed bars and an outdoor terrace overlooking CityWalk. VIP seating and table service is available. $7 cover after 10PM (must be ages 21+). (updated Jul 2018)
• Lone Palm Airport. Daily 10:30AM-1AM. Set under the winds of Jimmy Buffett's seaplane, this tiki bar alongside the lake serves up margaritas and frozen drinks, and also offers a menu of small bites. (updated Jul 2018)
• Pat O'Brien's. Daily 4PM-2AM. This New Orleans import serves classic Cajun cuisine and the famed Hurricane drinks straight from Bourbon Street. After 5PM, musicians take the stage and perform tunes on the iconic dueling pianos. $10-18, $7 cover after 10PM (must be age 21+). (updated Jul 2018)
• Red Coconut Club (first club up the stairs on the right). (updated Jul 2018)

Universal classifies these hotels as Prime Value resorts. All fairly new and lightly themed, these options are great for families and guests who want less of a full resort atmosphere and more of a convenient place to relax and sleep after a long day in the theme parks. Though less expensive than the other on-site hotels, these are still well-equipped and have some resort-style facilities.

• 🌍 Universal's Aventura Hotel, 6725 Adventure Way, ☏ +1-407-503-6000. Check-in: 4PM, check-out: 11AM. (updated Jun 2020)
• 🌍 Universal's Cabana Bay Beach Resort, 6550 Adventure Way, ☏ +1 407-503-4000, toll-free: +1-888-273-1311. Check-in: 4PM, check-out: 11AM. The Cabana Bay Beach Resort, opened in 2014, is a 2,200-room retro-themed resort offering both motel-style family suites and standard interior-entrance rooms. Despite the low price point, it offers some unique elements like a bowling alley, an arcade, and a special Jack LaLanne fitness center. The resort features two large zero-entry pools, both offering the namesake cabanas, and a lazy river. The main building also has a large cafeteria-style restaurant named Bayliner Diner, as well as a Starbucks, the Swizzle Lounge bar, and a Universal Studios Store. Each pool also has a bar. $116 and up. (updated Apr 2023)

A third budget resort, consisting of two unique hotels in a new lower category termed Value, is under construction across Interstate 4 from the main Universal Orlando Resort property. Connected by shuttle, this resort will be named Universal's Endless Summer Resort. The first phase to open, the Surfside Inn and Suites hotel, will begin accepting guests in the summer of 2019. The second, the Dockside Inn and Suites hotel, will open in 2020.

Universal's mid-range hotels are called Preferred resorts. Providing more extensive amenities and dining options, these resorts are ideal for those looking to kick back and unwind after enjoying the parks.

• 🌍 Loews Sapphire Falls Resort, 6601 Adventure Way, ☏ +1 407-503-5000, toll-free: +1-888-884-7922. Check-in: 4PM, check-out: 11AM. (updated Nov 2021)
• 🌍 Loews Royal Pacific Resort, 6300 Hollywood Way, toll-free: +1-888-430-4999. Check-in: 4Pm, check-out: 11AM. The Royal Pacific Resort is another dynamite resort on the Universal Studios grounds. One thing to not miss out on while staying at The Royal Pacific offers is the chance to experience authentic Polynesian cuisine and entertainment at Wantilan Luau. Unlike the Portofino Bay, the Royal Pacific Resort only offers one pool, but as an on-site guest you can travel to any of the other on-site hotels and are allowed pool access. The fan favorite pool... the one located at the Hard Rock Resort (it plays music under water!). $220 and up. (updated Jul 2018)

Universal's highest level of hotels are termed Premier resorts. These large hotels offer a wide range of amenities, including high-end dining, massive pools, extensive theming and luxurious rooms.

• 🌍 Hard Rock Hotel, 5800 Universal Blvd, toll-free: +1-888-430-4999. The Hard Rock Hotel is the third of Universal Orlando's upscale resorts, featuring theming that makes it resemble a sprawling mansion of a rock star in Hollywood. There is a hip, music-oriented theme inside; at the pool, you can actually listen to music underwater. (updated Nov 2021)
• 🌍 Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, 5601 Universal Blvd, toll-free: +1-888-430-4999. Portofino Bay is a beautiful Italian style-hotel, however it can be a bit pricey, depending on the season. Out of the places to eat at this hotel, a particularly good option is Mama Della's Ristorante. The eatery offers great food and great service; however beware of the dim lighting, so you may need your reading glasses to get a look at the delicious menu. Don't fret about getting there before check-in, they allow guests to pre-register as soon as they arrive, and will even activate the Universal Express feature before you check-in so you can get the most out of your vacation. (updated Jul 2018)