Universal Orlando
Explore Universal Orlando Resort. Home to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Epic Universe and some of the most acclaimed thrill rides in Orlando.
- 4 Theme Parks
- Wizarding World of Harry Potter
- Epic Universe
- Universal Resort Hotels
Overview
Universal Orlando Resort comprises three theme parks — Universal Studios Florida, Universal's Islands of Adventure, and the brand-new Epic Universe — plus the Volcano Bay water park and the CityWalk dining and entertainment district.
Universal skews towards thrill seekers, older children and adults, with one of the world's most acclaimed themed environments in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Explore each Universal park
Movie-themed attractions and immersive experiences.
Home to major thrill rides and Harry Potter attractions.
Universal's newest theme park featuring multiple immersive worlds.
Tropical water park centred around Krakatau volcano.
Iconic Universal moments.
From the Universal Globe to Hogwarts Castle — the experiences that define a Universal Orlando holiday.
Why visit Universal
Some of Orlando's most highly rated coasters, launches and dark rides.
From the Wizarding World to prehistoric and futuristic lands.
Family-friendly attractions alongside major thrill rides.
Rides, shopping, restaurants and nightlife in one destination.
- The Wizarding World of Harry Potter spans two parks, linked by the Hogwarts Express — both halves are essential for Potter fans.
- Epic Universe (opened 2025) is the first entirely new major Orlando theme park in over 25 years.
- Universal's coaster line-up is the most aggressive in Orlando: VelociCoaster, Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, and the Hulk.
- Universal Express Pass meaningfully cuts queuing time and is included free for guests at three of Universal's hotels.
Must-do attractions
The headline experiences UK visitors most often plan their Universal days around.
One of the world's most acclaimed coasters — multiple launches, high-speed inversions and dramatic raptor-themed manoeuvres.
A unique family thrill ride combining storytelling, launches and surprises through the Forbidden Forest.
Groundbreaking attraction that transports guests through Hogwarts Castle and into the Wizarding World.
Interactive attraction combining physical sets and digital technology for an immersive gaming experience.
Long-standing Universal favourite blending dark ride elements with unexpected coaster thrills.
High-energy simulator ride through Krustyland with the entire Simpson family.
Where to stay at Universal Orlando
A snapshot of popular Universal resort hotels across the value, prime value and premier tiers.
Italian Riviera-inspired luxury — includes complimentary Unlimited Express Pass for two parks.
Striking modern resort serving the Epic Universe area with a vast resort-style pool deck.
Retro-inspired family resort featuring spacious accommodation and easy access to Volcano Bay.
Music-themed Premier hotel within walking distance of Universal Studios Florida — includes Unlimited Express Pass.
Best time to visit
When you go matters more than where you stay. These are Universal's traditionally quieter or better-value windows.
Quietest weeks of the year for Universal's three theme parks.
Warm, dry conditions before the summer peak.
US schools back in session — shorter standby queues.
Holiday events and seasonal celebrations across the resort.
Overall best time: Late August to mid-September and early December are typically the quietest periods.
Planning a Universal Orlando holiday?
Universal Orlando offers a range of ticket options including single-park tickets, Park-to-Park tickets, Express Pass upgrades and multi-day tickets. Most UK visitors find better value in 3-day, 5-day or longer multi-park tickets.
Expert tips
Five high-impact moves that consistently save UK visitors time and money at Universal.
Guests at Hard Rock, Portofino Bay and Royal Pacific receive complimentary Unlimited Express Pass for two parks.
The Hogwarts Express only runs with a valid Park-to-Park ticket — and rides differently in each direction.
Be at the gate 30 minutes before official opening to hit the headliner rides while queues are short.
Standby times typically fall in the last two hours before park close.
Epic Universe is a full-day park in its own right — don't try to combine it with other Universal parks on the same day.
Typically 09:00 to 21:00; later during US holidays, Halloween Horror Nights, and summer.
Best for ages 8+. Younger children have fewer options than at Disney; height restrictions apply to most major coasters.
Universal Boulevard, Orlando — roughly 20 minutes from Orlando International Airport (MCO).