Tips for visiting Universal Orlando

Theme Park Insider readers submit, and vote on, their suggestions for getting the most from a visit to Universal Orlando.

Click the "Yes" buttons on advice you agree with, and "No" on ones you don't like.

Click the button at the bottom of the page to submit your own tip.

Most Recent Tips

[27 + / 2 -] Show your AAA card whenever you buy food or merchandise. Even though a sign may not be displayed, it's an automatic 10% discount.

[11 + / 7 -] The parking deck is covered and deserted by lunchtime with everyone in the park. Don't hesitate to bring a cooler with drinks and sandwiches and eat at your vehicle, then go back to the park. You'll save money, not to mention being in the shade.

[20 + / 0 -] You can get a dining pass to eat at Mythos w/o paying park admission. They'll run your credit card at the front gate, then cancel the ticket charge if you return to the ticket window with a Mythos receipt within 2.5 hours.

All Readers' Tips

In descending order of popularity

[1420 + / 110 -] Get to the park early to be sure you can get on your favorite rides before the park gets too crowded.

[737 + / 54 -] If you stay in one of Universal's three on-site hotels, the Royal Pacific, the Hard Rock or the Portofino Bay, you get free front-of-the-line access to all Universal Orlando attractions.

[525 + / 49 -] Bring your own water bottles. It will save you time and money!

[404 + / 86 -] Don't use lifts or other tricks to make your kids look taller than they are. Height and safety restrictions are there for a reason.

[206 + / 20 -] Oldie but a goodie - Always work your way backwards through a park instead of stopping at the first attraction you get to. You will beat 60% of the crowds.

[152 + / 14 -] You can make advance dining reservations for Universal restaurants and character meals, including the Theme Park Insider Award-winning Mythos, by calling 407-224-4012.

Universal Studios Florida: [143 + / 8 -] On Men in Black, aim for the light at the top of the car on the other side of the track when you are turned face-to-face with it, and do not forget to hit the red button on your dashboard when it flashes and you are told to hit it.

[125 + / 9 -] When approaching counter service eateries, review the menu and have your selections in mind before you get to the counter. The folks behind you and the cast member will be eternally grateful.

[102 + / 10 -] If you're going to get an annual pass, add parking to at least one pass (if it isn't included already). It seems expensive at first, but at more than $10 a pop for parking at most parks, it pays off in the end.

[108 + / 27 -] Don't look like some clueless, sun-fried British tourist. Wear sunscreen whenever you visit a theme park.

[99 + / 21 -] Theme park walkways are designed for traffic flow, keep to the right and keep moving. If you want to gawk around, step to the very outside. If you drop something, step to the right and look around before coming to an abrubt halt. Courtesy people.

[82 + / 8 -] I have noticed that if you go on a day less than perfect between Monday and Thursday you don't have to wait in line much if at all.

Universal's Islands of Adventure: [81 + / 12 -] Yes, If at Universal's Islands of Adventure dining at Mythos Resturant is a MUST. The food is awesome and the resturant decor is great!!!

[81 + / 13 -] Bring individual packets of Crystal Light etc, as all counter services in most parks will give you a glass of ice water free of charge. Make your own ice tea, lemonade etc!

[56 + / 1 -] Never try to make a crying child go on a theme park ride.

[56 + / 4 -] If you are going to visit a park more than once in a year, look into buying an annual pass. Most include discounts on food, merchandise and parking and some can pay for themselves in as little as two visits.

[63 + / 14 -] take a backpack with snacks and water for you and the kids it can save you some serious bucks

[69 + / 23 -] Smoke in the smoking sections! Because it is really annoying for the rest of us!!! Plus, you can get a misdemeanor if you don't!

[47 + / 5 -] Strollers should be parked in areas designated for them, covering every bench seating area is rude to other guests that also need some time out. As a Guest, our courtesy and common sense can make or break someone else's day at the park.

[44 + / 5 -] Have a large snack about ten o'clock, then don't have a meal until middle of the afternoon. That way you avoid the rush between noon and two o'clock.

[33 + / 0 -] Use parks' free package check services to store what you buy in the park and keep your hands free while you ride.

Universal Studios Florida: [36 + / 3 -] Visit the Florida theme parks in the winter. It's still lovely sunshine and you'll get on every ride within 20 minutes.

Universal Studios Florida: [35 + / 5 -] If you love Men in Black and Hate the long lines, you can ride an insane number of times by using the single riders line

[27 + / 2 -] Show your AAA card whenever you buy food or merchandise. Even though a sign may not be displayed, it's an automatic 10% discount.

Universal Studios Florida: [31 + / 6 -] When riding the mummy in the first few hours that the park is open the single riders line is extremely fast and saves a great amount of time.

[30 + / 7 -] be polite to the cast members, most only make minimum wage and for some it is their first job. they may just be learning and if you are irritating to them they may make you wait longer, or charge you more.

[23 + / 1 -] Drink plenty of fluids on a hot day! The last thing you want is to become dehydrated. Try to stay in the shade as much as possible as well.

[28 + / 6 -] Be friendly and courteous, even when others are not. When that grumpy staff member at the front gate checks your bag, smile and say thank you. If someone drops something while walking on the path, pick it up and tell them!

[24 + / 2 -] Take a photo of where you park with your digital camera. Easy to remember.

[20 + / 0 -] You can get a dining pass to eat at Mythos w/o paying park admission. They'll run your credit card at the front gate, then cancel the ticket charge if you return to the ticket window with a Mythos receipt within 2.5 hours.

Universal's Islands of Adventure: [21 + / 3 -] Never carry your shopping bags when you are in the park for a day or so.. Just put your name on the card and send it to trade co. of IOA which is near to the gate. You can always get your shopping bags and still enjoy the rides without lockers

[16 + / 0 -] Freeze water bottles the night before and they will offer cold water for a few hours as they melt.

Universal Studios Florida: [26 + / 10 -] When on Men in Black aim for the red light on your OWN vehicle. you will hit it every time and you get MAJOR points. Also, don't keep squeezing the trigger; just hold it down.

Universal Studios Florida: [18 + / 3 -] If your a fan of a great hamburger than go to margaritaville (in citywalk) and have a cheeseburger in paradise

[16 + / 2 -] Want to avoid the big crowds? Try going when the kids are in school on a weekday if you're able to. Families tend to come on weekend and when the kids are out of school.

Universal's Islands of Adventure: [15 + / 1 -] If you have access to get into the park an hour early, go to Hulk first, then Spider-Man. We once did hulk 4 or 5 times in a row, without waiting and got front row every time.

[18 + / 5 -] Try ordering items from the kids menu. You will be surprised how full you get and you'll save a lot of money.

[19 + / 6 -] Buy your tickets/book your hotel through AAA ,if you are a member. If you aren't join, you'll save the fee with one trip and you'll have someone to call if you get a flat on the Beeline.

[12 + / 0 -] bring a wet washcloth on hot days in a plastic baggy- good for a quick cool off on the back of your neck and you can keep it cool with a few pieces of ice in the baggy

[15 + / 3 -] If you lost your hat/keys/sunglasses during a ride, it's possible that you'll be able to find it at Lost & Found the next day. Even if you are already back home, call and if they have the item, they will likely courier back to you free of charge.

Universal Studios Florida: [21 + / 9 -] If you were never a big fan of the "Earthquake" attraction, you may want to skip "Disaster", as only the pre-show and audience interaction have changed. The ride is still the same.

[17 + / 5 -] If you want to get some great pictures of fireworks, make sure to use a digital camera with its night setting. Keep your hand still and you will have some great pictures!

[24 + / 12 -] Drawstring Bags are a great object to bring to a park. You can put all your stuff in it when going on roller coasters and wear it as a backpack.

Universal Studios Florida: [13 + / 2 -] Go to The Simpsons Ride when the park opens.

Universal Studios Florida: [12 + / 1 -] On the Men In Black ride hold IN the red button at the end of the ride while shooting the giant aliens eyes. You'll earn another 100,000 points!

Universal's Islands of Adventure: [19 + / 8 -] Get a MealDeal for $18-$25. Flash your wristband just three times ($9 average per meal) and you're ahead of the game.

Universal Studios Florida: [11 + / 1 -] Florida residents save $20 off the front gate price when you purchase a 1-Day/1-Park ticket online

[23 + / 13 -] Are your kids seat-kickers on airplanes? Take off their shoes. They'll be more comfortable, and not kick. Take off yours for comfort, too. Just, please, wear socks!

Universal's Islands of Adventure: [19 + / 9 -] The week before a holiday is the best time to go.

[13 + / 3 -] Ask the human resources department at your employer if it sells discount tickets to theme parks. Many do, as well as discount tickets to local theaters, zoos and attractions. Check those prices against the parks' websites and pick the better deal.

[9 + / 0 -] Using a spray bottle to spritz yourself with a water mist will cool you down a lot!!

Universal Studios Florida: [18 + / 9 -] To be a participant in the Disaster show, place yourself a few people back from the host and raise your hand enthusiastically when they ask for volunteers. Works every time.

[20 + / 12 -] Know the difference between a theme and amusement park and adjust your expectations accordingly.

[8 + / 0 -] If you are going with a group/family with older teens walkie-talkies are are good idea to have not everyone wants to do the same thing at the same time

[8 + / 0 -] Wear shoes that are comfrotable and that have proper support. Most parks will have you doing a lot of walking. A lot of folks get really fatigued (or hurt) due to wearing cheap sandals or flipflops. Good shoes make for a good day.

[9 + / 1 -] If you got really bad sunburn, witch hazel is a good soothing treatment to get rid of that annoying pain.

[9 + / 2 -] Don't EVER unbuckle your seatbelt while riding! The ride will stop, and YOU will be thrown out of the park!

[7 + / 0 -] Always try to buy your tickets online! They're usually cheaper and save you the headache you'll get waiting to purchase at the gate.

[8 + / 1 -] Crokies (adjustabel eyeglass holders) are indispensable if you're a roller coaster fan. Get them at a pharmacy or gas station, and make sure they tighten to your head. Great for sunglasses, too.

[10 + / 3 -] Your kids are going to get cranky no doubt about it. Carry crackers for when they get hungry an hour into a line.

Universal Studios Florida: [11 + / 4 -] For a glimpse at nostalgic Universal, go behind the Woody Woodpecker coaster near the Curious George play area. There rests a barracaded version of the old Hard Rock Cafe restaurant still in tact. It is currently used as a staging area for the park.

[25 + / 19 -] Never close your eyes when riding a roller coaster. That will just make you dizzier, as your eyes help your sense of balance adjust.

[7 + / 1 -] If you're allergic to a certain food and are cautious about what goes into your food make sure to ask the server where or how will the food be cooked...saves you a trip to first aid.

Universal Studios Florida: [9 + / 3 -] stick with a SPF 50 or better lotion, leave the sunbathing for the daytona beach

[6 + / 0 -] Make Lunch your biggest meal of the day. Light eating (popcorn, pretzels, etc.) no big deal in the later evening.

[9 + / 3 -] Wear a wallet sized purse with long strap that just fits tickets, digital camera and cash. You can stash it in pocket of cargo jeans or inside your shirt when you go on roller coasters. No need for lockers.

[16 + / 10 -] most parks are less busy meaning shorter lines Monday-Friday

Universal Studios Florida: [7 + / 2 -] If you're a Florida resident and want to go to HHN, buy your tickets at a local Publix supermarket. They sell 'em half off!

[7 + / 2 -] To treat sunburn, apply a heavy amount of aloe vera gel, maximum strength formula. Works wonders.

[5 + / 0 -] dont wear jewlery on the rides they come off during the ride... also dont bring extra things like a bag to the park or anything that you cant bring on the ride they get annoying when you have to put them in lockers or worry about it the entire time.

Universal Studios Florida: [10 + / 5 -] Do Shrek 4D first to save time then you can do the other attractions after that.

[11 + / 7 -] The parking deck is covered and deserted by lunchtime with everyone in the park. Don't hesitate to bring a cooler with drinks and sandwiches and eat at your vehicle, then go back to the park. You'll save money, not to mention being in the shade.

Universal Studios Florida: [10 + / 13 -] On the Men in Black ride just keep the trigger pressed down and your score will be higher than anyone else's

For more attraction, ride and hotel reviews, visit our home pages for Universal Studios Florida and Universal's Islands of Adventure.

Get, and vote on, more tips about a variety of topics, including those not related to theme parks, at TipReel.com.

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