Top 5 Ways to Experience Universal Studios in Orlando

Those who have been to this incredible theme park can agree that if the day is not planned properly, it could turn into a nightmare. There are many rides, attractions and shows. Not only that, Universal in Orlando encompasses two parks: Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. So how do you get the most out of those parks? This article will give you some very important tips on how to have more fun, spend less money, and most importantly, enjoy more attractions.

1) Get an Express Pass.

Not many people know this, but an express pass will allow you to take in many attractions without standing in long lines. Express Passes are sold out throughout the park. However, if you want more value for your money, get a Premiere Pass. This pass already has an express pass built in. On top of that Premiere Pass, it includes preferred parking, water coupons, and a few other benefits, like saving up to 10% on food. So if you plan to stay at Universal for more than a week or if you plan to return to the park, this is certainly the pass that gives you the most value for your dollar.

2) Skip the long lines when entering Universal Park

Is there a secret entrance to the park? Yes there is one. This entrance is located by Blue Man Group just below the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit roller coaster. It is a very small stand and not many people know about it. This booth is an entry point to the park as well as the main entrance. However, there is a big difference between the main entrance and the secret entrance: less people! Fewer people equals faster access to the park, which in turn equals faster access to attractions, which in turn equals a better experience. You get the idea.

3) Be aware of the height limit

If you are traveling with children, research the height limits for each ride and/or roller coaster. The last thing you want is for your kids to get excited about the ride only to find out you’re not tall enough. This is serious. The Orlando Universal Studio staff is very strict in enforcing this rule. More than that, you may wait 2 hours only to find out at the end that your child does not meet the height requirement. Who wants to waste 2 hours and turn a perfectly fun day into a day of disappointment and tears? I do not. Do your research first!

4) Check out Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit

Depending on how much time you have at your disposal, you should definitely check out Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit. This goes out to people who are roller coaster fanatics like us. There are tons of attractions at both parks, but this one tops them all. Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit is the world’s largest roller coaster of its type (type x). You can select your own music, experience being on top of the loop, and even burn the entire experience to DVD. Imagine a fact, the journey does not have a loop where you go upside down. Not only is there a 90-degree incline at speeds up to 65 miles per hour. By the way, did I mention a 160 foot drop? Hold down your cell phone and camera. If you don’t, a very professional and yet very understanding staff will deliver both items to you in a plastic bag.

5) Get a food deal and a refillable drink cup

I’m not sure if this is a surprise to many, but food and drinks at theme parks are expensive. A bottle of water could cost more than $2.50 and even more for a soft drink. WOOF. You could literally exhaust your vacation fund on food and drinks alone, especially when you have young children. So the best way to deal with this situation is to buy a Meal Deal. You can buy one online or inside universal studios. Either way, it will save you tons of money. When it comes to beverages, the solution is simple: buy a refillable beverage cup. You can pay around $9 for it, but it’s worth it and will save you more money in the long run. Not only that, you can use one or two cups for the whole family throughout the day. Fill it in as many times as you want.