Universal Studios Florida: reviews and practical tips

+4
recos
5/5 2 reviews
6000 Universal Boulevard, 32819 Orlando, United States
6000 Universal Boulevard, 32819 Orlando, United States
Universal Studios de Floride

Visiting Universal Studios Florida

Universal Studios Florida is located in Orlando. Opened in 1990, the park has expanded over the decades to cover 160 hectares (about 395 acres).

The original goal was to compete with Disney World just down the road. The project has since evolved into a massive 3-park resort complex that now includes "Islands of Adventure" and "Volcano Bay".

Themed Environments

Universal Studios draws crowds because it holds the rights to a deep catalog of successful franchises. With Harry Potter, E.T., SpongeBob SquarePants, the Minions, Spider-Man, Fast and Furious, and Transformers, it is hard not to find a universe you recognize. You will also encounter attractions based on properties from other studios, such as the Simpsons, Shrek, or Terminator.

Attractions

The most popular destination is undoubtedly "The Wizarding World of Harry Potter". You can walk through the film sets before boarding the Hogwarts Express. You might also choose the highly immersive Transformers: The Ride 3D, which puts you right in the middle of the franchise action. Thrill seekers will not be disappointed, as the parks feature numerous roller coasters, such as the "Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit" that hits speeds over 100 km/h (about 62 mph).

Guided park tours start at $190. The "VIP Experience" allows a group to follow a guide for 5 hours, providing priority access to about a dozen attractions, breakfast and lunch, and a behind-the-scenes look at the park. There is also a "Private VIP Experience" where you have the guide to yourself, though specific pricing is not published.

It is a diverse park where everyone can find a world that matches their interests.

Opening hours

9:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Hours are indicative and subject to change

Reviews of Universal Studios Florida

Add my review
Summary of 2 reviews
5/5
Average rating
+4
Total recommendations

Ratings by visit type

With family
5
As a couple
4.5
With friends
5

Avygeo ranking

#1020
in the world
#185
in Americas
#41
in United States
#2
in Orlando

A great mix of movies and rides

Many movie franchises like Harry Potter or Transformers serve as backdrops to immerse you in realistic environments, alternating between fan service, entertainment, and thrills.

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Visiting your favorite movies

Despite the miserable weather, we had a lot of fun visiting these parks.
There are so many attractions based on movies or worlds we all know like E.T., Harry Potter, Fast and Furious, etc.
With the fast passes, the wait times are short, but it definitely increases the budget (count on $100 per adult for 1 day).
Plenty of shops with items that stick to the themes.
Lots of little corners with nods to movies. Parades and meet and greets with characters.
A large number of the attractions are motion-based (you are in a vehicle that does not roll, it moves in place depending on what is happening on the screen), but there is also a roller coaster that lets you look out over the park, especially on days when it is not raining.
The part that was the most memorable for us remains Harry Potter because of the incredible accuracy. You really feel like you are in the movie and you expect to run into house elves.

2
Recommends :
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With family :
As a couple :
With friends :

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