A trip to Orlando isn’t complete without a stop at Universal Studios Orlando, but costs can add up quickly if you’re not careful. Of course, you can save money on your trip in many ways (as you’ll learn if you hang around my blog long enough!). However, getting the best Universal Studio tickets is among the most important.
Doing a little bit of extra research before pulling out your credit card can make a huge difference. I’ll go over everything you need to know about getting Universal Studios tickets and a bunch of things Universal Studios vacation planning. From the best places to buy to common mistakes. I’ll give you all the tools you need to plan your trip in the best way possible.
Table of Contents
How Much Is It to Go to Universal Studios
A trip to Universal Studios is a great way to spend a vacation, but it can seem a bit pricey.
The cost of admission varies depending on the time of year and which park you visit, but tickets typically start at around $117 per day.
If you want to add the optional Express Pass, which allows you to bypass the regular lines at select attractions, that will add an additional $60-$80 to your total.
Once you’re inside the park, there are plenty of ways to spend money on food, souvenirs, and other activities. However, there are also a number of ways to save money. For example, many local grocery stores offer discounts on Universal Studio tickets, and there are often promotions for free or discounted tickets if you stay at certain hotels.
With a little planning, it is possible to enjoy all that Universal Studios has to offer without breaking the bank.
There are many different aspects of the trip that will require payment, from travel and accommodation to food and entertainment.
One of the biggest costs is likely to be your theme park tickets. Universal Orlando offers a variety of ticket options, from one-day passes to multi-day passes that include access to both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure.
Another cost to consider is lodging. Universal Orlando Resort has on-site hotels that offer exclusive benefits like early park admission and complimentary shuttle transportation. For those on a budget, there are also many hotels in the surrounding area that provide easy access to the parks.
When it comes to food, there are plenty of dining options available at Universal Orlando, from quick counter service meals to sit-down restaurants. Many restaurants offer menus with kid-friendly options as well as vegetarian and gluten-free dishes. Finally, don’t forget to budget for souvenirs!
- Universal Studio Tickets
- Hotel
- Food
- Souvenirs
Universal Studio Tickets
If you are wondering about Universal Studio ticket prices, you’re in the right place.
Purchasing your tickets in advance is the best way to ensure entry into the park of your choice on the day of your visit. In addition, it allows you to take advantage of special promotions and discounts that may be available.
We are going to discuss discounted Universal Studio tickets shortly buy for now, let’s review the pricing from Universal.
How much does a ticket to Universal Studios cost?
Ticket prices for Universal Studios vary depending on the time of year and which park you visit.
It will also depend on how many days you are looking to visit the parks.
Single park ticket means just that, one park. You can choose from Universal Studios Orlando or Islands of Adventure.
A park-to-park ticket means you can go back and forth between Universal Orlando and Islands of Adventure. A must of you want to ride the Hogwarts Express.
| TICKET | SINGLE PARK TICKET | PARK-TO-PARK TICKET | 3-PARK PARK-TO-PARK TICKET |
| 1-Day Adult | $116.08-$148.54 | $174.66-$206.61 | n/a |
| 1-Day Child (3-9) | $110.76-$142.71 | $179.99-$201.29 | n/a |
| 2-Day Adult | $254.52-$284.34 | $318.42-$348.24 | $361.02-$394.84 |
| 2-Day Child (3-9) | $243.87-$273.69 | $307.77-$337.59 | $350.37-$384.19 |
| 3-Day Adult | $279.01-$396.71 | $342.91-$379.61 | $385.52-$412.14 |
| 3-Day Child (3-9) | $268.36-$296.96 | $332.27-$359.96 | $374.86-$491.49 |
| 4-Day Adult | $292.86-$316.29 | $362.09-$386.58 | $415.34-$439.83 |
| 4-Day Child (3-9) | $282.21-$345.64 | $351.44-$375.93 | $404.69-$429.18 |
| 5-Day Adult | $300.32-$325.88 | $374.86-$491.49 | $438.77-$465.39 |
| 5-Day Child (3-9) | $289.67-$315.23 | $364.21-$399.84 | $428.12-$454.74 |
How much is a 1-day ticket to Universal Studios?
During the busy summer season, tickets start at around $142 per day. For less crowded times of the year, like January and February, tickets start at around $117 per day.
This is for an adult one day, on park ticket. But the possibilities are endless with your tickets.
If you are looking for a park to park ticket because you’re a huge Harry Potter fan, like I am, than you are looking at spending $175 to $207.
How much do 2-day tickets to Universal Studios cost?
With a 2-day ticket, you can explore both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. Prices for a 2-day park-to-park ticket start at around $318.
During the busier seasons, they can go up to $348.
For a single-park ticket, you are looking at between $254 and $284.
How Much Do Universal Tickets Cost: Park to Park Option
If you want to purchase the park-to-park option, you are looking at spending $175 – $207 for a 1-day ticket and $318 – $348 for a 2-day ticket.
This allows you to go back and forth between the parks. This is easy to do as the walking distance is short and the Hogwarts Express ride can only be used if you have a park to park ticket.
Universal Studios Orlando Discount Tickets
We are all looking to save as much as money as we can on our vacation but when buying your tickets make sure you are getting them form an authorized seller so you don’t end up SOL at the gate.
Best Discount
The absolute discount for Universal tickets is hands down GetAwayToday. I talk about them all the time on the blog because they’re a great reputable company.
Head over to their website and take a look at all their different ticket offerings, including free days. You won’t regret it.
Military Discounts
At military bases worldwide, Universal Orlando provides specially-priced tickets for resale to active duty, retired military, and Department of Defense personnel. Active-duty military personnel may also get a discount on multi-day passes, holiday packages, and hotels if they have a valid ID.
Awards Points
If you have enough award points, you may be able to purchase Universal Orlando tickets using these programs. IHG Rewards Club, Regal Crown Club, Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards, and American Express are among them.
Discounts For Florida Residents
Universal Orlando offers discounts to Florida residents, including on Annual Passes.
Annual Passes
Seasonal and annual passes are also available from Universal Orlando. They currently offer 2 and 3 park passes for $424.99 and $944.99, which are fair prices for frequent visitors who would like to visit the park several times during the year.
What is the Cheapest Month to go to Universal Studios?
If you’re looking to save a few bucks on your next trip to Universal Studios, you might be wondering what the cheapest month to go is.
The complex answer is that it varies depending on factors like school schedules and holidays. However, there are a few months that tend to be cheaper than others. For example, January and February are typically slower travel months, as are September and October.
This is due to the fact that many people are unwilling to travel during cold weather. So, if you don’t mind braving the crowds during peak season, you’ll likely find the best deals in the off-season.
Of course, it’s always a good idea to check for discounted tickets and hotel rates before you book your trip.
If you look at the Universal Studios tickets chart, September is the cheapest month to go to Universal. That is when you will find tickets the cheapest.
How Much Is It To Go to Universal Studios in 2022?
So, how much does it cost to go to Universal Studios Orlando? When comparing how much it costs to have a vacation in Orlando, there are several things to consider.
However, please be assured that there is a Universal Orlando package to fit every budget and size.
We’ll look at some of the most important considerations when planning for your Universal visit for this study
What to include in your Budget for Universal Studios:
- Universal Orlando Tickets
- Universal Orlando Hotel
- Universal Orlando Dining
It’s crucial to remember that we didn’t include a rental car because all visitors to Universal Orlando are entitled to transportation for free. Off-site, there are several exceptional Universal hotel choices with complimentary shuttle service that guests may take advantage of. Depending on which hotel you pick, the only issue you might have is how to get from the airport.
Universal Studios Tickets Cost
As of right now, a one day park to park ticket for Universal Studios costs under $200.
However, the price of tickets does fluctuate depending on which dates you are visiting.
For one adult, your ticket will cost:
- 1 park, 1 day: $116-148
- 2 parks, 1 day: $174-206
For one child, your ticket will cost:
- 1 park, 1 day: $110-141
- 2 parks, 1 day: $179-209
When calculating the cost of your tickets, use the table above to find the number of days you are visiting and multiply to the number of people in your family.
Your total ticket cost could be anywhere from $500 to thousands of dollars.
Universal Orlando Hotel
There are many hotel choices close to Universal Studios. However, you will want to make sure that your chosen location includes free transportation to and from the parks.
The price of your stay will also be determined by how many people are in your party and how long you plan on staying in Orlando.
A one-night stay in a standard room at one of the on-site hotels starts at $169 per night.
Keep in mind that there are also many off-site hotels that offer free transportation to Universal Studios. These locations usually start at around $100 per night.
Universal Orlando Dining
There are many dining options available at Universal Studios. However, the cost of food can add up quickly.
If you are on a budget, you may want to consider packing your own food or eating before you enter the park.
If you do plan on eating inside the park, there are several quick-service restaurants that offer meals for under $10.
There are also several sit-down restaurants that offer table-service dining. These locations usually have entrees that start at around $15.
The cost of food can really add up, so be sure to factor this into your budget when planning your trip.
How Much Does it Cost to Go to Universal Studios Per Day?
The cost of universal studios per day really depends on how many people are in your party and how long you plan on staying in Orlando.
If you are visiting for one day, you can expect to spend around $200/person for tickets.
If you are staying for multiple days, the cost of your tickets will go down.
You will also need to factor in the cost of your hotel and dining.
A one-night stay in a standard room at one of the on-site hotels starts at $169 per night.
The cost of food can really add up, so be sure to factor this into your budget when planning your trip.
Per day, per person, a Universal Studios Orlando trip will cost approximately $290, including tickets, hotel, and food.
Universal Studios Dining Options
Here are a few places to consider when you are looking for Universal Studios dining options.
The Burger King Whopper Bar is a quick-service restaurant that serves burgers, fries, and shakes.
The Three Broomsticks is a sit-down restaurant that serves traditional English fare like fish and chips and shepherd’s pie.
Mythos Restaurant is an award-winning sit-down restaurant that offers Greek and Mediterranean cuisine.
The Leaky Cauldron
A quick-service restaurant that serves traditional English fare like fish and chips and shepherd’s pie.
Circus McGurkus Cafe Stoo-pendous is a quick-service restaurant that serves American food like burgers and fries.
Florean Fortescue’s Ice Cream Parlour is a quick-service restaurant that specializes in ice cream and desserts.
Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food is a sit-down restaurant that serves Mexican food like tacos and enchiladas.
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. is a sit-down restaurant specializing in seafood like shrimp and crab legs.
The Cheesecake Factory is a sit-down restaurant that serves American food like burgers and fries.
Hard Rock Cafe Orlando is a sit-down restaurant specializing in American food like burgers and fries.
Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville is a sit-down restaurant specializing in American food like burgers and fries.
Pastamania! is a quick-service restaurant that specializes in Italian food like pasta and pizza.
Red Oven Pizza Bakery is a quick-service restaurant specializing in pizza and Italian food.
Tex-Mex Concoctions is a quick-service restaurant specializing in Mexican food like tacos and enchiladas.
As you can see, there are many Universal Studios dining options available to suit any budget. Be sure to factor the cost of food into your budget when
Universal Studios Hotel Options
Here are a few Universal Studios hotel options to consider when you are planning your trip.
- Dockside Inn and Suites
- Surfside Inn and Suites
- Cabana Bay Beach Resort
- Aventura Resort
- Loews Sapphire Falls Resort
- Lowes Royal Pacific Resort
- The Hard Rock Hotel
- Loews Portofino Bay Resort
Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Studios Orlando- This hotel offers Moderate accommodations and is within walking distance to universal studios. Starting rates at $372/night
Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Studios Orlando- This hotel offers Deluxe accommodations and is within walking distance of Universal Studios. Starting rates at $358/night
Loews Royal Pacific Resort
This hotel offers Deluxe accommodations and is within walking distance to Universal Studios. Starting rates at $312/night
Cabana Bay Beach Resort at Universal Studios Orlando- This hotel offers Moderate accommodations and is within walking distance of Universal Studios. Starting rates at $132/night
Aventura Resort at Universal Studios Orlando- This hotel offers Moderate accommodations and is not within walking distance to universal studios. Starting rates at $132/night
Dockside Inn and Suites at Universal Studios Orlando- This hotel offers Value accommodations and is not within walking distance of Universal Studios. Starting rates at $91/night
Surfside Inn and Suites at Universal Studios Orlando- This hotel offers Value accommodations and is not within walking distance. Starting rates at $91/night
Loews Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Studios Orlando- This hotel offers Moderate accommodations and is not within walking distance of Universal Studios. Starting rates at $202/night
As you can see, there are a variety of Universal Studios hotel options to choose from, depending on your budget and needs.
Offsite resorts are much lower, starting at $30/night. If you are having trouble planning your vacation, work with your travel agent. they’re free!
Use Chase Ultimate Rewards points
Redeem Ultimate Rewards points for Universal hotels
The Chase Ultimate Rewards program may be a jack of all trades when it comes to covering the costs of a Universal Orlando vacation. Consider your lodging, for example.
Universal Orlando Resort has three Premier-class hotels: Loews Royal Pacific Resort, The Hard Rock Hotel, and Loews Portofino Bay Hotel.
Universal’s Express Unlimited, a special offer for hotel guests, can get you through the turnstiles in no time. Reservations at these hotels come with Universal Express Unlimited, which allows you to skip the line. So, consider whether staying in a Premier hotel might save (or at least break even) when calculating whether or not you’ll benefit from
How Much Does The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Cost?
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is an immersive theme park experience that offers guests the chance to enjoy the world of Harry Potter. The cost of admission to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter varies depending on how you choose to experience it.
Your Universal Orlando studios tickets include entrance to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, but you must get the park-to-park ticket and not the single park ticket.
When trying to calculate how much The Wizarding World of Harry Potter costs, use your cost for Universal Orlando Studios.
Universal Studios Orlando Hours
Universal Studios Orlando is open 365 days a year, and hours vary by season.
During the busy summer months, the park is open from 9 am to 10 pm. In the fall and winter, closing time is typically 7 pm. However, hours can change on short notice due to special events or inclement weather.
Always check the park website or call ahead before planning your visit.
And remember, even when the park is closed, there’s always plenty to do at Universal CityWalk, Orlando’s premier entertainment complex. With over 30 restaurants, nightclubs, and movie theaters, CityWalk has something for everyone.
How Long Does Universal Studios Orlando Take?
How long does it take to experience everything that Universal Studios has to offer? The answer depends on how much time you have to spend at the park and what your interests are.
In my personal opinion, Universal Orlando’s lines are constantly long. This is because, though Universal rides are great, there aren’t enough of them to disperse visitors. Most times, 75% of rides at Universal have over 45 minute wait times.
If you are a Harry Potter fan, I would allow at least 3 days at the Universal Orlando parks.
- Day 1 – Harry Potter: Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley
- Day 2 – Universal Stusios
- Day 3 – Islands of Adventure
If you want to accomplish the water park, Volcano Bay, that would be the 4th day.
Universal Studios Orlando Map
The Universal Studios Orlando map is available below and at the ticketing office.
The map shows the location of all the rides, attractions, and shops in both parks. It also includes where to find dining options, water fountains, and first-aid stations. The map is color-coded to help visitors easily find what they are looking for.
Red indicates rides and attractions, green indicates dining options, blue indicates shops, and yellow indicates restrooms.
Visitors should pick up a map when they arrive at the park to plan their day and make the most of their time at Universal Studios Orlando.
Here, you will find PDF maps that you can use on your phones while at the parks and plan your Universal Studios vacation.
Directions to Universal Studios Orlando
To get to the park, take I-4 East from downtown Orlando.
Universal Studios will be signposted. Follow the signs for the parking garage as Universal Orlando, Islands of Adventure, and CityWalk all share one garage. Once you’re there, it’s time to start exploring!
Take a ride on the Hogwarts Express between Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, or experience the thrilling new Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure attraction.
Driving to Universal Studios Orlando from Disney World
If you’re driving to Universal Studios Orlando from Disney World, take I-4 East towards Orlando.
Take the Kirkman Road/Universal Boulevard exit and follow the Universal Studios signs. Exit 75A
Once you’re in the park’s vicinity, follow the parking garage signs.
Universal Studios Orlando Parking
There are many parking options at Universal Studios Orlando. The theme park offers on-site parking, and guests can also take advantage of a complimentary shuttle service from select hotels.
In addition to the standard parking. Universal Studios Orlando also offers prime parking, which entitles guests to priority access to the most popular attractions.
Guests can also take advantage of ride-sharing services such as Uber or Lyft.
Daily Parking Fees Per Vehicle
Prime Parking:
$60
Prime Upgrade:
$32
RV/Bus Parking:
$32
Regular Parking:
$27
Free Parking Options
• Free Regular Parking* for matinee movie showings from 11 am – 6 pm with purchase of two or more Universal Cinemark matinee tickets. (Regular Parking fee must be paid in full and then reimbursed upon presentation of parking receipt. Restrictions apply.)
• Free self-parking after 6 pm for all guests. (Not valid during Halloween Horror Nights. Additional restrictions may apply and are subject to change without notice.)
Orlando is a top tourist destination, and for good reason. There’s simply so much to do and see, no matter what your interests are. If you’re looking for some ideas on things to check out during your next visit, this Universal Studios Orlando tickets guide can help get you started. From the parks to the surrounding area, we’ve got all the info you need to make the most of your time in Central Florida.