As Orlando locals, we can’t get enough of the movie-inspired thrills at Universal Studios Florida™. It’s not hard to see why. This 108-acre playscape is packed with dozens of cinematic rides, restaurants and interactive experiences that keep us — and millions of tourists — coming back, again and again. But there are a few things we know that they don’t, so here are our best insider tips for your Universal Studios Florida™ experience:
1) Download the Universal Orlando Resort app to buy your tickets.
Trust us. Not only will you save on each ticket, but you’ll also skip the long lines for Guest Services. Just scan your tickets directly from the app at the turnstiles.
Pro Tip: You can also get the discount by purchasing your tickets online.
2) Use your American Express® card to purchase your multi-park tickets or annual pass.
Carrying the official card of Universal Studios Florida™ has its perks. You’ll see what we mean when you gain access to the exclusive American Express Lounge, featuring complimentary snacks and water, a full-time concierge, private bathroom and air conditioning! Find this semi-secret perk across from Shrek’s Ye Olde Souvenir Shoppe.
3) Don’t buy your Express Passes at the front of the park.
By all means, go ahead and get the Universal Express™ Pass upgrades, but be sure to buy them after you get into the park (or online in advance.) They’re available at every merchandise store — which means you can easily pick them up at the store next to whichever ride you’re going on first!
4) If you plan to eat in the park, purchase the Quick-Service Dining Plan*.
This plan includes a meal, two drinks and a snack – usually a popcorn, pretzel, ice cream or Icee. When you consider some of the park’s meals cost about the same as the plan on their own, it’s like getting the drinks and snack for free!
Pro Tip: Invest in a Coca-Cola freestyle® Souvenir Cup* and get free unlimited refills. If at least one person in your party gets it, everyone can stay caffeinated all day!
*Buy with your American Express credit card and show the deal on the app for an additional 10% off.
5) Skip the Guest Services station at the front of the park.
If you find you absolutely have to go to Guest Services for something, use the location at the MEN IN BLACK™ ride instead. It can do everything that the one at the front of the park can without the lengthy line.
Lines are shorter in the mornings and evenings, so try to get as many big rides in as you can before noon. Then, use the early afternoon for air conditioned attractions, like MEN IN BLACK™: Alien Attack™, Revenge of the Mummy™ or King’s Cross Station at Diagon Alley™. When lines die down around 5 p.m., return to the bigger rides — you’ll miss the worst of the crowds and heat!
As you’re planning your Orlando vacation, consider Encore Resort at Reunion for spacious vacation rental homes offering luxurious 4 – 13 bedroom accommodations, just 20 minutes from Universal Orlando Resort!
