Guide to Universal Studios Florida

Universal Studios Florida is loud, flamboyant & bold, plus it allows you to become the star of the show and ride the movies! This outstanding theme park is home to The Simpsons, Transformers, The Minions, and more. Most attractions are big E-Ticket events, and the park houses some of the biggest attractions in Orlando. Our Guide to Universal Studios Florida, Orlando, is part of our Guide to Universal Resort Orlando. The guide has hints & tips for planning your visit to Universal Studios Florida.

Our Guide to Universal Studios Florida had its last major update in April 2021. At the time of writing, Universal Orlando is in the process of reopening following the coronavirus pandemic. While most attractions are open, several shows are closed. Also, there are restrictions on capacity and additional safety measures in place. We will guide you through all the essential information you need to know to have a great day at Universal Studios Florida.

Jump Right Into Our Guide to Universal Studios Florida

Are you looking for specific information about Universal Studios? We have created some handy page jumps will help you find information.

• Universal Studios Florida The Basics a little about the history of the park and what it is like.
• Important 2021 Universal Studios Information details on the changes in place to keep you safe during 2021
• Planning your trip to Universal Studios Florida essential information for beginners and repeat visitors
• Useful Information when Visiting Universal Studios Do you have a question about Universal Studios Florida? You will probably find the answer here.
• The Lands at Universal Studios Florida details all the attractions at Universal Studios Florida
• Universal Studios Florida Dining all your dining options
• Special Events at Universal Studios

Universal Studios Florida The Basics

Universal Studios Florida welcomes around 10 million guests a year and opened on June 7, 1990. It was the first theme park to open at Universal Orlando Resort & opened shortly after Hollywood Studios. The park’s theme is the entertainment industry.

What is Universal Studios Florida like?

Universal Studios is loud, flashy & bold. It is very different than Walt Disney World, but that is not a bad thing. The majority of attractions are Bg E-Ticket Experiences. Universal does not do small filler attractions & finds little room for keeping sentimental, historical attractions.

Universal Studios Florida appeals more to families with teens & young adults or those with a sense of adventure. Guests will find a lack of attractions for small children inside the park. In our opinion, you are probably best waiting until children are age 5 or above before visiting.

Most guests will need 1-2 days to explore everything Universal Studios has to offer. However, the park is getting busier, and you may need extra time during busy periods.

Important 2021 Universal Studios Florida Information

While it is exciting news that Universal Studios Florida is now open, there are many procedures in place to keep you safe. However, the experience being offered by Universal Orlando is closer to normal in comparison to Walt Disney World:-

• Guests and team members are required to wear face coverings
• Guests and team members are required to undergo temperature checks. Anyone with a temperature of 100.4 degrees or greater will not be able to enter
• Staggered parking within the parking garage.
• Limiting and reducing daily park attendance and attraction capacity. Unlike Walt Disney World, Universal is not offering a park booking system. This has meant that the parks do reach capacity on certain days.
• Increasing cleaning and disinfection of food locations, ride vehicles, and other frequent “touchpoints”
• Social distancing at all locations through the parks,
• Having Virtual Line experiences available for select attractions
• Offering contactless payments and “no-touch” policies where possible

What is open at Universal Studios Florida

The majority of attractions are open at Universal Studios Florida. Parades are currently not operating, including the legendary Mardi Gras parade. Also, although characters are in the park, a minimum of 6-feet is maintained in any greets.

The following attractions are not operating in the parks:-

• Fear Factor Live
• Curious George Goes to Town
• Fievel’s Playland 
• Universal’s Superstar Parade

Available attractions are subject to change and Universal recommends you check the Universal Resort App for the latest information.

New at Universal Studios Florida

There are no new attractions scheduled to open at Universal Studios Florida during 2021. However, The Bourne Stuntacular did open once the parks reopened to guests in 2020.

Unlike Walt Disney World, Universal keep details of new attractions low key. Often Universal only confirms the opening of a new attraction close to the opening date. Universal Orlando traditionally opens at least one new attraction each year. We expect there might be a new attraction at Universal Studios during 2022.

Planning your trip to Universal Studios Florida

Planning your visit to Universal Studios Florida is an essential activity, and the process is not as difficult as it first seems. With a bit of research, you can soon create the perfect day. We have created several guides and have provided plenty of useful information so you can plan a sensational trip to Universal Studios, Florida. However, you should note that the process is slightly different during 2021.

• Our 2021 Guide to Universal Orlando Resort has plenty of additional information if you plan to visit the resort.
• We have created a list of our Top Tips when visiting Universal Orlando
• Mistakes happen when on vacation, but these are 20 Universal Orlando Mistakes you want to avoid.
• Here are our 2021 must-do experiences when visiting Universal Orlando

Check the Latest Safety Information

Not everything is business as usual at Universal Studios. Everyone over the age of three must wear a face covering, and all guests will have their temperature checked. If your temperature is over 100.4 degrees, you will not be admitted. Be prepared to social distance, follow more signs than usual, and follow team member directions. Make sure you check the Universal Orlando website for the latest information.

Universal Orlando Tickets

Universal Orlando has several ticket options, but the biggest decision is whether you want to buy a Park to Park Ticket. Guests who do not buy this option cannot ride the Hogwarts Express.

Visit our Guide to Universal Orlando Tickets to learn more

Express Pass at Universal Orlando

Universal Studios Florida, like many theme parks, has a system for priority boarding of attractions. The system is called Express Pass, and it is not cheap. The decision on whether to buy an Express Pass can be difficult. At quieter times of the year, it is usually not essential.

There is a selection of different Express Pass options, and guests staying at the top Universal Resorts receive Express Pass as an added benefit. You can learn more about the options available in our Guide to Universal Express Pass.

WiFi & The Universal Orlando Resort App

Park WiFi has improved in recent years and is available throughout Universal Studios Florida.

The Universal Orlando Resort App allows you to store tickets, access wait times, join Virtual Line Experiences, access showtimes, and more. There are handy interactive maps, and the app will even save where your car is parked. You can now preorder food from select restaurants using the Universal Orlando Resort App.

Universal Pay is a new feature that allows you to add a debit or credit card to the App. This feature then allows you to use the App throughout the park for contactless payments.

The Universal Orlando Resort App is available at both the Apple App Store & The Google Play Store.

Virtual Line Experience

Universal has been using Virtual Lines for several years. The concept is simple, reserve your place using the Universal Resort App and then join a much shorter line later in the day. Since the parks reopened, the number of attractions offering Virtual Lines has increased, but the attractions offering it can change throughout the day.

Currently the following attractions are offering the Virtual Line Experience at Universal Studios Florida:

• Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
• Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon
• Revenge of the Mummy
• Fast & Furious – Supercharged
• Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts

Height Restrictions Universal Studios

The majority of attractions at Universal Studios Florida do carry height restrictions, and these are enforced strictly. The following attractions have restrictions:

• Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts™
  Must be at least 42″ (107cm). Children between 42″–48″ (107cm-122cm) must be accompanied by a supervising companion.
• Revenge of the Mummy™
  Must be at least 48″ (122cm).
• Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon™
  Must be at least 40″ (102cm). Children between 40″–48″ (102cm-122cm) must be accompanied by a supervising companion.
• MEN IN BLACK™ Alien Attack™
  Must be at least 42″ (107cm). Children between 42″–48″ (107cm-122cm) must be accompanied by a supervising companion.
• Woody Woodpecker’s Nuthouse Coaster™
  Must be at least 36″ (91cm). Children between 36″–48″ (91cm-122cm) must be accompanied by a supervising companion.
• The Simpsons Ride™
  Must be at least 40″ (102cm). Children between 40″–48″ (102cm-122cm) must be accompanied by a supervising companion.
• Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit™
  Must be at least 51″ (130cm) and no more than 79″ (200cm).
• E.T. Adventure™
  Must be at least 34″ (86cm). Children between 34″–48″ (86cm-122cm) must be accompanied by a supervising companion.
• Despicable Me Minion Mayhem™
  Must be at least 40″ (102cm). Children between 40″–48″ (102cm-122cm) must be accompanied by a supervising companion. Persons under 40″ (102cm) must experience this attraction from an adjacent stationary seat.
• TRANSFORMERS: The Ride-3D
  Must be at least 40″ (102cm). Children between 40″–48″ (102cm-122cm) must be accompanied by a supervising companion.
• Fast & Furious – Supercharged™
  Must be at least 40″ (102cm). Children between 40″–48″ (102cm-122cm) must be accompanied by a supervising companion.

Child Swap at Universal Studios

If the kids are not big enough to ride, it does not mean you have to miss out. All rides at Universal Studios have a Child Swap facility. Child Swap, also known as Baby Swap, allows the rest of a family to ride an attraction when a child is too small or young to experience the ride.

The young child sits, usually in a dedicated waiting room, with a parent while the rest of the family ride. Waiting rooms are fairly basic but do usually include a television showing cartoons linked with the ride. Once the first group is off the ride, parents swap supervision, and the rest of the family ride without waiting. Usually, attendants will allow an older child even to ride again.

To use Child Swap at Universal Studios, speak to the cast member at the entrance to the ride who will advise of the procedure to follow.

Meeting Characters

At this time character meets are slightly different at Universal Studios Florida. Characters will be meeting guests, but at a distance. Guests will be positioned in a designated spot six feet away from the characters for a photo opportunity. You will not be able to make physical contact with the character. At outdoor locations, you can remove your mask for a short period to have your photograph taken.

There are numerous character opportunities at Universal Studios Florida. The majority of meet and greets are scheduled with details available on park maps. However, unscheduled meet and greet might happen throughout your day. The majority of characters will sign autographs and waiting times tend to be shorter compared to Walt Disney World.

Characters you might meet at Universal Studios include:

• The Simpsons
• Scooby & Shaggy
• Knight Bus Conductor
• Optimus Prime, Bumblebee, and Megatron
• SpongeBob SquarePants
• Doc Brown
• Men in Black
• Barney
• Minions
• Hello Kitty

Useful Information when Visiting Universal Studios

During the reopening period of Universal Studios Florida, some services might be temporarily suspended or altered. Always check the Universal Orlando Resort App for the latest information.

Park Hopping

There is only a short walk of approximately 200m between Universal Studios & Islands of Adventure. Guests can also jump between both parks by riding the Hogwarts Express at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. However, you must have a park to park ticket to ride the Hogwarts Express.

Celebration Buttons

Just like Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando wants to know if you are celebrating. Whether it is a birthday, honeymoon, anniversary, or just your first visit, you can collect a Celebration Button from Guest Services.

First Aid

A First Aid Station is located at Family Services, near the Studio Audience Center at the front of the park. The main Health Services station is located on Canal Street between the New York Street Set and the San Francisco Street Set.

Nursing Facilities

Nursing Facilities are available free of charge at Universal Studios. They can be located on park maps or by asking any team member. There are diaper stations in all restrooms.

Stroller & Wheelchair Rentals at Universal Studios Florida

We always recommend bringing your own or hiring in advance for the length of your vacation, but day hire is available. You can hire strollers, wheelchairs, and ECVs inside Universal Studios Florida. The hire station is located to the left as you enter the park.

ECVs are limited in quantity and are hired on a first-served basis. Universal recommends these are reserved in advance by contacting Guest Services on 407-224-4233.

Phone Charging

Universal Orlando now sells FuelRod charging packs. These packs cost $30 and come with a mobile charger and adaptors for the most popular mobile phones and tablets. FuelRod charging stations are now located at several locations in Universal Studios. Once your FuelRod is empty, you can replace it at the station for a fully charged replacement, but there is a $3 charge. We recommend bringing your own portable charger instead.

Paying for Goods at Universal Studios

Major credit cards are accepted throughout Universal Orlando. ATMs can be located on park maps. Currency exchange is available at guest services. Guests staying at a Universal Resort can charge purchases to their room.

Recently Universal Orlando introduced a new payment option called Universal Pay. This new option allows guests to make hands-free payments using the Universal Resort App. Guests simply store their credit or debit card to the App. The app even allows you to control your budget by setting a maximum spend per day. Currently, Universal Pay is only available in Universal-owned premises.

Locker Hire

Lockers are available to hire at the entrance to Universal Studios Florida. These cost $10 a day or $15 for a family size locker.

Certain attractions at Universal Studios do not allow you to take loose items on board the ride. There are standard-sized lockers (14 in x 5.5 in x 16.9 in) available for small loose articles that are free when you ride. If you have larger items, larger lockers are available but carry a charge. The following attractions have lockers available:

• Revenge of the Mummy
• MEN IN BLACK™ Alien Attack
• Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
• Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts

Additional Universal Orlando Useful Information

Are you looking for different information about Universal Orlando Resort? We have batched together some of your most common problems in the following post, Universal Orlando Useful Information. If you have a question, you are likely to find the answer here. Remember, some services will not be available during the reopening period.

The Lands at Universal Studios Florida

Universal Studios Florida features 7 areas/lands plus a lagoon. Most attractions at Universal Studios Florida have a height need, and children under 48″(122cm) must be accompanied by an adult.

Production Central

Production Central is the first area you enter inside Universal Studios Florida. You will also find Guest Services, First Aid, and Family Services in this area. There are several shops here, including the massive Universal Studios Store.

• TRANSFORMERS: The Ride-3D is an impressive simulator, but I have no idea what is going on! In my opinion, you really have to have seen the film to understand the plot of this attraction. Must be at least 40″ (102cm). Children between 40″–48″ (102cm-122cm) must be accompanied, but we do not feel this attraction is suitable for young children.
• Shrek 4-D great fun with Shrek & Donkey. Although this attraction originally opened in 2003, we think it is still one of the best 4D attractions in any park.
• Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, I will admit it; this is the one ride in Orlando I am scared of riding! This stunning coaster allows you to select the music to go with your ride. The 17-story vertical climb is what turns me off this ride, but I understand it is sensational. Must be at least 51″ (130cm) and no more than 79″ (200cm) to ride.
• Despicable Me Minion Mayhem silly simulator attraction with the minions. The attraction used to be in 3D but recently changed to 2D. There is usually an opportunity to meet a minion after the ride. You must be at least 40″ to ride, but there are stationary seats anyone can ride.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley is one of the most amazing theme park experiences globally. Diagon Alley was the 2nd part of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to open after Hogsmeade at Islands of Adventure.

Before entering Diagon Alley, you see a “Universal reconstruction” of modern-day London. King’s Cross Station is located in this area along with the Knight Bus.

As you enter through the red-bricked barrier into Diagon Alley, it is impossible not to be stunned by the wonder of the setting. Guests can easily spend several hours wandering through the shops and mysterious sights that await you. Highlights include the Leaky Cauldron, Ollivanders, and Weasley’s Wizard Wheezes.

Make sure you don’t forget to turn into Knockturn Alley. This dark area has a mysterious and sinister feel plus has some stunning special effects and unique shops.

There are 2 rides in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley:

• Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts an amazing 4D coaster, but perhaps the highlight is walking through Gringotts itself. A fire-breathing dragon sits atop the building, and inside, you will meet the incredibly realistic goblin bank clerks. There are various other stunning pre-shows you will encounter in a likely lengthy wait. However, the wait is worth it when you board the ride. Half coaster and half 3-D simulator, this is a stunning ride as you encounter villains whilst you explore the depths of the vault. Min height: 42”/106cm

• Hogwarts Express travels to Islands of Adventure, but there is plenty to see on this magical train. You must have a park to park ticket to ride, and the attraction is different in both directions. The ride is great fun, and everyone can ride!

Take your time in Diagon Alley the rides are only part of the experience as there is so much to see.

Hollywood

• Universal Horror Make-Up Show one of the original attractions at the park. This amusing show, which small children will find frightening, demonstrates horror make-up.
• The Bourne Stuntacular an all-new addition to the park in 2020. This stunt show based on the Bourne film series is in the old Terminator building.

New York

• Revenge of the Mummy a terrifying dark coaster with some awe-inspiring effects. The ride is fast and does have a backward section. You must be at least 48” (122cm) to ride.
• Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon I have never seen Jimmy Fallon, but this is a fun simulator. This ride has no queue, and guests receive a time to return through a virtual line, but Express Pass holders can enter at any time. Must be at least 40″ (102cm) to ride.
• The Blues Brothers Show Classic street entertainment with Jake and Elwood Blues. Try and grab an autograph before they leave.
• Universal Orlando’s Cinematic Celebration Universal’s new night spectacular on the lagoon. The show has music, water, light, and projections. Films featured include Jurassic World, Fast & Furious, and Despicable Me.

World Expo

Sometimes The Simpsons area is counted as its own unique land but officially it is inside the World Expo.

• Kang & Kodos’ Twirl ‘n’ Hurl a fun Dumbo-like ride, but some added Simpsons’ zaniness.
• The Simpsons Ride, perhaps this is starting to feel a little dated, but it is still good fun. The Simpsons are brought to life in this simulator attraction. This is one attraction where you really do feel part of the film. This ride has a rather bizarre loading system which I would love to understand how it works. Must be at least 40” (102cm) to ride.
• MEN IN BLACK I’m not very good at this spinning, shooting attraction. However, it is strangely addictive and is great family fun. Must be at least 42” (107cm) to ride. Make sure you listen to when to press the button!
• Fear Factor Live audience participation game show. currently not operating

San Francisco

Fast & Furious – Supercharged is one of the park’s newest attractions, but I left somewhat underwhelmed. Unlike the Hollywood version, this is in 2D. Guests board a party bus and end up in a high action-adventure. Overall the attraction is rather confusing and does not have the usual Universal “wow factor”. Kids must be at least 40″ (102cm) to ride.

Woody Woodpecker’s KidZone

There really isn’t a lot for small children in Universal Studios Florida. Woody Woodpecker’s KidZone has the best of the attractions for little ones.

It has long been rumored that this area will close for a refresh. Although the previously rumored Nintendo Land now seems more likely to be at Universal’s Epic Universe.

• Animal Actors On Location! fun animal show
• E.T. Adventure a theme park classic & only 1 of 2 remaining attractions from opening day. This adventure is fantastic fun for the entire family BUT kids must be at least 34” (86cm) to ride.
• Curious George Goes to Town playground currently closed
• Woody Woodpecker’s Nuthouse a fantastic introduction to coasters for little ones. Must be at least 36” (91cm).
• CoasterFievel’s Playground another playground. currently closed

Parades At Universal Studios Florida

Parades are currently suspended inside the park

Universal Studios’ parades have never been the highlight for many guests. However, the daily Universal’s Superstar Parade is good fun and features SpongeBob SquarePants, Minions, the Secret Life of Pets, Dora, and more. The time of the parade does vary, and you should check the time on admission.

Many of the characters take part in special Character Party Zones throughout the day.

Universal Studios Florida Dining

Universal Orlando has not reached the same level as Walt Disney World for dining options. While the quality of food has improved in recent years, it is still some distance behind Walt Disney World. Dining options, however, in our opinion, represent better value than Walt Disney World.

Universal Studios Florida only has 2 table service options, both bookable through the park’s website. While walk-up tables can be available, we strongly recommend booking in advance. Reservations can usually be secured easily on the morning of your visit.

• Finnegan’s is a traditional Irish-themed pub serving a selection of dishes, including Bangers and Mash, Shepherd’s Pie, and Guinness Beef Stew. There is a wide choice of ales available to go with your meal.
• Lombard’s is Universal Studios’ flagship restaurant and was present when the park opened. This seafood restaurant serves favorites like clam chowder, fish & chips, and Cioppino ocean bowl. However, the restaurant also serves meat dishes for those who would rather avoid seafood.

Quick Service Locations

In addition to the 2 full-service restaurants, there is a choice of casual dining locations. Options are not as great as Disney World, but the quality is reasonable.

Special Events at Universal Studios Florida

Special events have been altered during the reopening of Universal Studios. Check the Universal Orlando Resort App for the latest information.

Mardi Gras

A reduced Mardi Gras is getting held during 2021 and there is no nightly parade.

Universal Studios celebrates Mardi Gras from mid-February to Mid-April. These events are included in your park ticket but can attract big crowds. Music, street entertainment, and stores selling New Orleans food occur nightly.

However, the Mardi Gras parade with bead-throwing is the highlight of the festivities. The parade is great fun and has some outstanding costumes & floats. While New Orleans events are known for being of an adult nature, the Universal version is a family affair. On select nights there are live music concerts.

Christmas at Universal Studios Florida

Universal Studios celebrates Christmas with a selection of special features. The highlight for many guests is the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which has special decorations and entertainment.

Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s occurs daily. Santa, the minions, characters from Madagascar & Shrek star in this colorful parade.

July 4th

The park traditionally celebrates Independence Day with special entertainment plus a massive firework display. Expect equally massive crowds!

Halloween Horror Nights

Halloween Horror Nights were canceled in 2020. Expect 2021 details to be announced soon.

Held every fall are the massively popular Halloween Horror Nights. These special events are not included with regular admission and attract an extra admission fee. Regular guests should note that Universal Studios Florida closes early on these nights.

The events are genuinely terrifying and are not recommended for those under 13. There are live shows, character interactions, and open-air scare zones. The highlight of the night is the haunted houses which can attract large crowds.

Read More

To learn more about Universal Orlando, visit our 2021 Guide to Universal Orlando Resort. The guide contains the latest planning tips.