Universal Orlando Resort is the second biggest theme park in the Orlando area next to Walt Disney World. For a lot of people, it’s the place to be for the intense thrill rides that Disney is believed to lack.
However, while some may consider Disney World at least a full week’s vacation, most only consider Universal Orlando Resort a brief excursion. I’m giving you 3 reasons why that is a misconception! Universal Studios Orland Resort is in fact a fully packed week of fun.
photo: bizzy.runninganddizn
Universal Orlando is made up of 2 theme parks, 1 water park, 8 resorts and City Walk– a shopping, dining and entertainment area located in front of the entrance to both parks. Although it is true, Universal Studios Orlando is much smaller than its competitor, it is not enough to spend only 1 to 3 days inside the theme parks, water park and at a resort. Here are the reasons why!
First, be sure to read: Unveiling the Magic: The Best of Universal Studios Theme Park Destinations to guide you through the excitement and adventure of taking a Universal based vacation!
It takes 4 days to get the most out of the theme parks and water park at Universal Orlando Resort
Despite its acreage compared to Disney, Universal Orlando resort packs a punch when it comes to theming and excitement. To fully appreciate what it has to offer its guests, it is best to give yourself the time to take it all in.
photo: bizzy.runninganddizn
Thrills and Attractions at Universal Orlando Resort
As mentioned, Universal’s 2 theme parks have more high intensity thrill rides than Disney World. Taking that into consideration if you love those crazy rides and you don’t give yourself enough time, you will find yourself running around at warp speed to accomplish as many as possible. Basically, smaller park, but more attractions to experience.
By allowing yourself a few days to do EVERYTHING you won’t feel rushed by the fear of missing out. There are also so many other things to see and do aside from the great rides. If you spend all of your time racing from one big attraction to the next, you won’t see and do anything else.
photo: bizzy.runninganddizn
For example, if your objective is to go on The Simpson’s ride, The Revenge of the Mummy, and Transformers one after the other, you will probably blow past the Blues Brother’s Show, or the Beat Builders-each incredible street performers. You might also miss the parades, the characters such as Scooby-Doo and the gang, the Simpsons, Beetlejuice and many more.
Lastly, Universal Orlando Resort is a great place to travel with young children! Kids will love the big theming, the kid friendly atmosphere and the perfect setting for fun!
If you budget for at least 3 days at the theme parks and 1 day at Volcano Bay, Universal Orlando Resort’s top rated waterpark, you can fully appreciate the thrill, theming, entertainment, and even relaxation that Universal has to offer its guests.
Theming at Universal Orlando Resort
Some argue that Universal Orlando Resort is unmatched when it comes to theming, even if you compare it to Disney. I won’t cast my vote for either as I think each rivals the other. I can say that Universal is saturated in highly detailed immersion when it comes to their parks and resorts.
Tying into the point above, if you only have a short time to spend inside the theme parks or even at the resorts, and you are scrambling to complete a list of attractions, you will miss the awe-inspiring detail of the characters and movies you love.
It will take you a solid 2 days to truly appreciate the extensive theming and detail at both parks in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, especially if you are a fan.
photo: bizzy.runninganddizn
While in the Simpson’s land, hang out and have a Duff beer at Moe’s bar. You can also decide if you would like to have a lobster roll on the San Francisco Waterfront or a pizza at a New York style pizzeria. However, Universal theme parks dining also offers unique and diverse options.
When you invest time in taking it slow, you will undoubtedly see things that will amaze, amuse, or impress you. Even if you have been to Universal Orlando Resort in the past, there is always something new and details you missed.
Chilling out at Universal Orlando Resort
The focus when you vacation at Universal Orlando resort is to have fun. However, it is also important to feel like you had a vacation and schedule some relaxing time. When you have a couple days to chill out on your trip, it can make all the difference.
Whether you stay at Universal Endless Summer Value resorts, the Prime Value resorts, the preferred resort, Sapphire Falls or Universal Premier resorts, take advantage of your choice! The Universal Orlando resorts theming and amenities offer guests the perfect getaway for travel parties of all types.
CityWalk and The Resorts
Universal Orlando has 8 resorts. All of which are very close, some within walking distance, all minutes away from the parks. CityWalk starts at the entrance to both theme parks. Taking a couple days to relax at your resort, the pool, visiting other resorts (as I mentioned, the theming is great) and visit City Walk can mean the difference between hectic and ahh.
The resorts and City Walk are also where you will find the best dining and shopping. So, if you want to spend your park days grabbing a hot dog, a burger or a quick on the go treat, you can spend other days taking in some of the best restaurants and bars while shopping for your souvenirs. For a closer look at CityWalk you can also read Universal Orlando Resort: Why CityWalk Can’t Be Ignored!
There’s more, for a breakdown of the excitement at each theme park check out my 4-part blog series that includes Universal Orlando Resort: Universal Studios-Where the Movies, TV and Entertainment Comes to Life and Universal Orlando Resort: Islands of Adventure-Where Imagination is Reality.
At the resorts, as well as at City Walk you will get to enjoy live entertainment both at night and during the day. At Loews Portofino Bay hotel Opera singers, Música Della Notte, perform nightly from the balcony in the courtyard. Sit down with a glass of wine and enjoy before heading to dinner Bice Ristorante. You won’t forget it. The food is amazing!
These are just 3 reasons why a week’s vacation at Universal Orlando Resort is ideal when you considering your trip. I’m sure many of you could add to this list. Please comment below if you can offer good reasons to hang longer at this destination.
If you are interested in planning a vacation to a Universal Travel destination, reach out to DizN Vacations. Their expert advice and experience will help you plan the trip you have always wanted. You can also submit a free no obligation quote request to start planning your vacation right away!
Continue to read my blogs for more great information on travel to Disney destinations and Universal Studios. Check out my tools page for tips and tricks as well as a packing list.
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