Universal Studios has long been synonymous with unparalleled entertainment, thrilling rides, and magical experiences. A vacation to Universal Studios promises an adventure like no other!
From iconic theme parks, captivating shows, and immersive attractions, the Universal Studios destinations are second to none! In this article, we’ll explore the best of Universal Studios vacations, covering everything from the must-visit attractions to tips for making the most of your stay.
Table of contents
Universal Studios Hollywood
The Hollywood location is where it all began. It continues to captivate visitors with its blend of movie magic and cutting-edge technology. Take the world-famous Studio Tour, where you can witness live film production or experience heart-pounding rides like Jurassic World.
The Adventure
Universal Studios Hollywood is a multi-level theme park set against the Hollywood hills in California. Here guests can conspire with Minions, join the Secret Life of Pets and cast magical spells at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Are you a wizard or a muggle?
@bizzy.runninganddizn Taking your vacation to a whole new level! #diznvacationswithjessicayashin #dizn #diznvacations #universalstudios #capcut #2023vacations #minions #universalorlandoresort #islandsofadventure #themeparktravel #travel #themepark
♬ original sound – bizzy.runninganddizn
Other Universal favorites include Transformers, King Kong, and The Fast and Furious. Universal Hollywood also has amazing shows, entertainment, shopping and dining.
Super Nintendo World
In early 2023, Universal Studios Hollywood was the first US park to open Super Nintendo World. Talk about immersive! This land takes you inside the Super Mario Bros universe with an impressive level of theming and technology.
Race against your opponents inside a multi-dimensional Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, collect keys in interactive play using a “Power-up” band and enjoy a bite to eat at Toadstool Café.
Universal Studios Hollywood offers an unforgettable experience for movie buffs and thrill-seekers alike. Now, with the addition of Super Nintendo World, there’s even more reason to stay and play at this original theme park.
Accommodations
Universal Studios Hollywood has contracted surrounding hotels and offer vacation packages easily booked directly through travel professionals who specialize in Universal Studios.
Many promotions and special offers include your room, theme park tickets as well as popular Hollywood tours in the area. In addition, you can even spend a day at the beach enjoying the beauty of Malibu or other nearby shores.
Universal Orlando Resort
Situated in the heart of Florida, Universal Orlando Resort consists of 2 theme parks—Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, and a waterpark- Volcano Bay. I encourage guests to spend more time at Universal Orlando for that reason.
Like Universal Studios Hollywood, you’ll find Jurassic World, King Kong, The Minions and MORE!
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a major draw at both Universal theme parks in the US. Fans can explore Hogwarts Castle, sip on butterbeer, and ride the groundbreaking attractions like Hagrid’s Magical Motorbike (attraction exclusive to Universal Orlando).
While Hogsmeade Village along with Hogwarts Castle can be found on both coasts, Universal Studios Florida is also home to Diagon Alley as well as the Hogwarts Express.
In Orlando, you can retrace the steps of the boy who lived through the magical street filled with wizarding goods. Then, hop on the infamous train to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
*To ride the Hogwarts Express, guests require a Park-to-Park ticket.
More Thrills to Explore
It’s fair to say Universal Orlando Resort is a bigger destination. Not only can you venture among the Jurassic giants and Transformers, but you can “hulk-out” on the “Incredible Hulk Coaster”.
@bizzy.runninganddizn Suess Landing at Islands of Adventure Universal Orlando Resort #dizvacationswithjessicayashin #diznvacations #dizn #themeparktiktok #universalorlando #islandsofadventure #suesslanding
♬ Cartoon background music(1156772) – MaxRecStudio
Visit the adorable and family-friendly Suess Landing at Islands of Adventure or soon to open DreamWorks Land at Universal Studios Florida, then take a thrilling, possibly even terrifying ride on the Mummy at Universal Studios Florida. There’s something for everyone and there’s more to discover on the east coast for Universal fans.
Lastly, you have to eat, right? There are some great dining options inside the theme parks! Whether you’re in the mood for Mediterranean, burgers and fries or character dining. Each park has options, and the options are delicious! Don’t skip out on treating yourself to great theming and unique food choices.
Volcano Bay
Universal Orlando Resort includes THE BEST waterpark in the Orlando area- Volcano Bay! If you are fan of high intensity water slides, family-friendly splash zones and a beautifully themed landscape, head to Volcano Bay.
Accommodations at Universal Orlando Resort
Universal Orlando property is home to 9 resort hotels in 4 different categories of cost and amenities. All Universal Orlando Resort hotels offer free transportation, either by bus or water taxi to/from the theme parks and Volcano Bay.
Value resorts include both Endless Summer Bayside and Surfside, while Prime Value resorts include Cabana Bay Beach Resort and Aventura Hotel. Both Value and Prime Value offer the lowest pricing on vacation packages with the least number of amenities.
Sapphire Falls, the Universal preferred resort, has a mid-tier cost and a moderate amount of amenities. Meanwhile, Royal Pacific, Portofino Bay, and the Hard Rock Hotel, at premier level are the closest and offer the greatest number of perks. One of those perks includes Free Universal Express Pass Unlimited for each night of your stay.
Universal Express Pass Unlimited allows you to skip the stand-by lines at participating attractions in the theme parks. See below. In addition, the Universal Orlando hotels offers some of the best dining available on property.
Ticket Options
Universal Studios Hollywood tickets vary from 1 day to muti-day options and because it’s a smaller park it’s easier to navigate.
Universal Orlando Resort has multiple options when it comes to theme park tickets. Choices range from 1- Day, 1 Park all the way up to 3-Park, unlimited days of your stay. That means you can choose to go to only 1 park on 1 day of your trip or you can choose to visit all 3 parks every day of your vacation.
Universal Express Pass is an optional add-on to skip the lines at participating attractions once a day at the theme parks. Universal Express Pass Unlimited is an optional add-on to skip the lines repeatedly at participating theme park attractions.
The cost of add-ons varies depending on the date and version you pick but generally runs between $80-$110/per person/per day. Universal Express Pass Unlimited is free for guests at premier level resorts for each member of your travel party for each night of your stay.
Special Events
Universal Studios Theme Parks host a few extra special events throughout the year.
Mardi Gras
For Spring, guests are invited to celebrate Mardi Gras at the parks. Collect your beads, indulge in Carnival inspired dishes, and enjoy the nightly Mardi Gras Parade.
Halloween Horror Nights
Halloween is where the Universal Studios destinations really shine! Do you love to be scared? If so, Halloween Horror Nights (HHN) is a perfect place to find your fear! To be clear, Universal Studios is first and foremost a movie production company.
Famous for original films such as Frankenstein and Dracula, Universal goes above and beyond with scare zones, haunted houses, and actors. It’s the gold standard of Halloween entertainment, in fact, it’s award winning!
The Holidays at Universal Studios
Later, during the holiday season, Universal Studios parks celebrate with a parade featuring Macy’s giant balloons. Guests are also invited to “Grinchmas” at the parks. Dr Suess’s Grinch and the Who’s of Whoville re-enact the original story.
After, meet and greet with the green man himself along with his newly found friends. Universal Studios parks pull out all the stops for the holiday season.
Must-See Shows and Events
Universal Studios is not just about rides; it’s also renowned for its spectacular shows and events. The nighttime show (currently on hold), Universal’s Cinematic Celebration, brings the lagoon to life with water fountains, projections, and fireworks.
@bizzy.runninganddizn LIve Entertainment makes it all the more fun and exciting! #universalorlando #liveentertainment #universalstudios #grinchmas #diznvacationswithjessicayashin #diznvacations #jessicayashin
♬ original sound – bizzy.runninganddizn – bizzy.runninganddizn
Live performances like WaterWorld (Universal Studios Hollywood) and The Bourne Stuntacular showcase jaw-dropping stunts and special effects.
Universal CityWalk
CityWalk is the shopping, dining, and entertainment district at the entrance at both Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resor. Here, you can grab a bite to eat at either casual or fine dining locations while shopping for Universal merchandise at both properties.
Take a look at my Top 5 Restaurants at Universal CityWalk in Orlando to get good information for your next trip
Tips for a Perfect Vacation
To maximize your time in the parks, take advantage of early park admission if you’re staying at a Universal Orlando Resort hotel. The perk gives you a head start on popular rides. Plan ahead and use the Universal Studios app to check showtimes, ride wait times, then plan your day accordingly.
A Universal Studios vacation is more than just a theme park visit; it’s an immersive journey into the world of movies and fantasy. Explore the movie-making magic in Hollywood! Experience the wizarding wonders in Orlando!
Universal Studios offers a blend of excitement and thrill. Plan wisely, embrace the magic, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
If you are considering a vacation to any Universal Studios destination, I encourage you to utilize the service of a travel planner. Reach out to DizN Vacations! Their knowledgeable and experienced team can help you build the trip you’re wishing for. You can also submit a free no-obligation quote request to start planning your vacation right away.
About the Writer:
Was this information helpful? Get all the latest and most important news by subscribing below to my monthly newsletter and most recent blog posts!
Learn more about Jessica Yashin
Pingback: New FREE perks in Disney News, Universal Studios plans a New Park and MORE Destination DizN and Beyond
Pingback: Embrace the Magic of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort - Destination DizN and Beyond