Experience The Movies
At Universal Studios the crowds are thinner and the price of admission friendlier. Get the lowdown on one of the world's beloved theme parks with this in-depth guide.
If you're seeking more adrenaline-pumping thrills coupled with some of your favourite film and TV characters, consider Universal Studios Orlando. Go behind the scenes and beyond the screen, and delve straight into your favourite movies.
Orlando boasts two Universal parks: Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure.
Magic-loving Harry Potter fans flock to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which spans both parks – Diagon Alley in Universal Studios Florida and Hogsmeade in Islands of Adventure.
Add to that the Universal CityWalk dining district teeming with well-known urban eateries and you can happily spend two days in theme-park heaven.
The essentials
- Country: USA
- Currency: US Dollar
- Visas: Australians holding valid passports can apply for an ESTA visa waiver provided their visit to the US is for 90 days or less
- Tipping: Tipping throughout the US is common practice, especially at restaurants where 15-20 percent is recommended. Cast Members (general park staff) do not accept tips
- Electricity: USA power outlets are set at 110–120 Volts using an A / B socket. You will need an AUS-to-USA adaptor
Orlando Weather
Temperature (avg °C) | Rainfall (max mm) |
J - 21 | J - 57 |
F - 21 | F - 57 |
M - 22 | M - 82 |
A - 25 | A - 92 |
M - 28 | M - 61 |
J - 31 | J - 64 |
J - 32 | J -170 |
A - 33 | A - 196 |
S - 33 | S - 171 |
O - 32 | O - 160 |
N - 29 | N - 86 |
D - 25 | D - 48 |
Getting There
Orlando has its own airport, which is the second busiest in Florida. Don’t let that fool you. Other than the notoriously long security queue, it’s easy to traverse and navigate.
Universal Studios is a 20-minute drive from the airport, but a taxi will set you back approximately US$50, plus tip.
Signs on the I-4 indicate turnoffs for hotels and the theme parks. Florida’s main highways feature toll stations, some of which only accept exact change. However, if you buy a SunPass online for US$4.95 and make a minimum US$10 top-up, you can drive through toll stations without worrying about pesky change. One-way from the airport to Universal will cost around US$4 in tolls.
Alternatively, you can use the shuttle service. Universal's resorts use SuperShuttle, which offer a flat rate of US$18 per person (kids under three ride free). If there are more than three people in your group, it’s better booking a taxi or considering a rental car.
Flight information
- Average flight time: Between 21 and 24 hours with one stop
- Daily flights from: Brisbane, Cairns, Alice Springs, Darwin, Perth, Adelaide, Hobart, Melbourne and Sydney
- Major airlines: United Airlines, Virgin Australia & Delta, Qantas & American Airlines, Air New Zealand & United Airlines, Delta, American Airlines, Air China & United Airlines, Cathay Pacific & United Airlines, Asiana & United Airlines
Getting Around
By foot
Universal Orlando has a number of on- and off-site hotels within easy walking distance from the theme parks. Walking from any on-site hotel to either theme park takes a maximum of 15 minutes using the landscaped garden pathways.
Hard Rock Hotel is the closest; only a step away from Universal Studios Florida's front gates, while Portofino and Cabana Bay are the furthest from the action. The park itself is easily done on foot, but remember comfortable shoes are key to having a good time.
By bus
If you are staying at an off-site hotel, you can catch the LYNX bus, which costs US$2 (exact change) for a single one-way fare. Universal hotels provide free shuttle buses to the theme parks. At Cabana Bay the shuttle conveniently leaves every 10 minutes from 7am to 2am.
After the buses drop you off at the central hub, you will go through a security check before taking a travelator to CityWalk.
By car
Universal has a mammoth parking garage that will set you back US$20 per car per day (free after 10pm). There are no trams from the parking lots, so be prepared for an eight- to 20-minute walk to the park entrances.
By water
Some Universal hotels offer a water taxi service instead of shuttles. This service uses a dock in CityWalk near the bridge to Universal Studios Florida as a hub – good for hotel-to-park transfers.
However, if you're travelling between hotels, you'll need to switch boats. Boats depart about every 15 minutes, from one hour before Early Park Entry begins until after CityWalk shuts down at 2am. Allow 20 to 25 minutes for each leg of your journey.
By Hogwarts Express
Once you are in the park the best way to get around is by foot. But you don’t want to miss the Hogwarts Express. It can take you from Universal Studios to Islands of Adventure and each way tells a different story. So skip the walk and head to Platform 9 and ¾.
Did you know...? The longest water descent ever exists in Universal's Islands of Adventure at the Jurassic Park River Adventure. The 26-metre plunge produces plenty of screams each day.
Where To Stay
There is a wide range of room types at Universal Orlando Resort's hotels. Not only does each place offer an abundance of options for families, couples and single travellers, they also boast an array of entertainment and generous space.
Other benefits of staying at a Universal Resort hotel:
- Early park admission to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter one hour before the public
- Free package delivery to the hotel room for any items purchased in the theme parks
- Free parking at the main CityWalk parking garage
- Free transportation to the theme parks and CityWalk
- 'Pool hopping' privileges to use any other related hotel's recreational facilities
- Free Wi-Fi in all hotel rooms and public areas
- Free scheduled transportation to SeaWorld, Aquatica, and Wet ‘n Wild
- Free Universal Express Unlimited passes for both parks (only for guests at Portofino Bay, Hard Rock, and Royal Pacific)
Our top picks
Cabana Bay Beach Resort
A fun and family-friendly resort complete with waterslide and evening movies on the lawn. Children adore the beach area for castle making, beach volleyball, table tennis and other sports. The American-style diner is an easy place for a quick pizza or on-the-go snack. The suite-style rooms include a bedroom and living area, plus a small kitchenette.
Hard Rock Hotel Orlando
The hotel's 650 rooms are on Universal Studios’ doorstep. Music is everywhere, even in the 1,110-square-metre pool, thanks to the underwater sound system. You can also book a complimentary loaner guitar and amp, delivered to your room.
Where To Eat & Drink
Each themed section of the parks has its own speciality food and drinks. From The Leaky Cauldron serving British pub food in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter to American Diner food within Toonland, it will be hard to pick your favourite spot.
Our top picks
Lard Lad Donuts
Simpsons Land
You’ve seen the giant pink iced, sprinkled donut on The Simpsons and now you can enjoy your very own. This donut is as big as your head so share it amongst at least four friends … or not.
Butterbeer Stands
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Wherever you go in Diagon Alley or Hogsmeade you will find shops and stalls selling the famous Butterbeer. It's a refreshing non-alcoholic soda topped with a sweet-scented cream froth that will leave you with a white moustache.
NBC Sports Grill & Brew
CityWalk
Dinner before the show? Look no further than CityWalk. There are so many great places to choose from, but for a casual, relaxed atmosphere head to the NBC Sports Grill. Grab a foosball table to keep the kids (or husband) completely amused during dinner. Try the Wisconsin fried cheese curd, ribs, steaks, burgers and salads. You’ll find good prices with large servings. Try the brownie sundae for dessert.
Character Dining
It's easy to find dining outlets around the theme parks where you can enjoy a meal while in the company of some of TV and film's most iconic characters. From the Grinch to Minions and more of your favourites, who will you choose as a dinner companion?
Cafe La Bamba
Universal Studios Florida
Held at Cafe La Bamba, this buffet breakfast is accompanied by several of the characters from the Universal Superstar Parade. Take advantage photo opportunities with characters from Hop and Despicable Me.
Circus McGurkus Cafe Stoo-pendous
Universal's Islands of Adventure
The Grinch hosts this seasonal breakfast full of Dr Seuss treats including Green Eggs and Ham, along with favourites such as bacon, hash browns and a pancake platter.
The Kitchen at Hard Rock Hotel
Hard Rock Hotel Orlando
Every Tuesday morning The Kitchen at Hard Rock Hotel welcomes characters from around the theme parks for a rockin' breakfast full of good tunes and even better food.
Island's Dining Room
Loews Royal Pacific Resort
Step into the Island's Dining Room for a tropical-inspired breakfast. On every Sunday, the delicious buffet delivers extra entertainment in the form of characters from the theme parks. Remember to grab photos and autographs after you've filled up.
Shopping
You can find so many great souvenirs at Universal, from ET paraphernalia to The Simpson’s shirts and Dr Seuss books. Whatever you love, you’ll find a gift store after every ride enticing you to leave with a reminder of your experience.
Our top picks
Ollivanders
Diagon Alley, Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Sitting amongst the Butterbeer stands and candy stores along Diagon Alley, Ollivanders transports you into the world of Harry Potter with a mini show about how to choose the right wand.
Afterwards you can spend time browsing the towering walls of thousands of wand boxes. Purchase an interactive want to make magic happen throughout Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley.
Kwik-E-Mart
Simpsons Land
Themed toys, shirts, books and more are all available in Simpsons Land at the Kwik-E-Mart. Nearby you can also enjoy a Duff Beer and Krusty Burger!
Special Events
A Celebration of Harry Potter
A magical three-day event that brings all the magic of the Harry Potter franchise to life. Famous actors and special exhibitions highlight the proceedings.
Mardi Gras
Crowds of revellers are adorned in colourful beads during Mardi Gras at Universal Studios Florida. The event features a parade, live music and delicious Cajun fare that transports you to island life.
Rock the Universe
Florida's biggest Christian music festival is held at Universal Studios Florida where upcoming names and famous acts perform on the same stage.
Halloween Horror Nights
Screams fill the still night air when all around Universal Studios guests are chased and tormented by the freaks and ghouls of nightmares. One of the biggest Halloween events around the USA, this is a night for spare underpants.
Top Attractions
Escape from Gringotts
Universal Studios Florida
Entering Gringotts underneath a fire-breathing dragon, the line moves fast as you pass through the bank’s grand marble lobby as goblins work feverishly on either side. What comes next is a multi-dimension 3D thrill ride with special guest Harry and Voldemort.
Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem
Universal Studios Florida
Two pre-ride shows get you ready, with appearances from Gru and his Minions. Once the ride starts, this 3D roller coaster takes you on an exhilarating cinematic journey, finishing with a dancing with a Minion.
Revenge of the Mummy
Universal Studios Florida
You might like to utilise the child swap for this dark ride. A roller coaster through the shadows with hot flames, scarab beetles and, of course, mummies.
The Simpsons Ride
Universal Studios Florida
This gyrating ride through the world of The Simpsons is a sure family favourite with 24 characters making appearances throughout. It a wild experience that perfectly sums up life inside the TV show.
Shhh ... Insider Secrets
If you dial 62442 (MAGIC) on the red phone booth outside Kings Cross Station, it will connect you directly with the Ministry of Magic (for free).
Send a postcard from Hogsmeade Village and it will get a special Hogsmeade Village postmark.
Other Orlando Destinations
Walt Disney World
Disney World is aimed at a younger audience, but is packed with entertainment for the young-at-heart. There are multiple theme parks, but Magic Kingdom is the most popular with the iconic Cinderella Castle.
LEGOLAND Florida
A solid one hour's drive from Universal, LEGOLAND includes awesome 4D cinema experiences, jaw-dropping cities made entirely of LEGO or interactive exhibits where you can play and discover.