Just because you’re visiting Universal Orlando during a busy time of the year, it doesn’t mean you can’t have a great time!

Arrive Early & Stay Late

• Get to the turnstiles 45 mins before EPA/official park opening.

• Aim to do your must-do attractions in the first 1-3 hours. 

• Ride Hagrid’s (or your #1 ride) first thing in the morning and/closer to closing.

• Staying late offers the best chance of experiencing the lowest crowd levels in the last 1-2 hours.

Make dining reservations ahead of time or bring your own food

• Reservations for table-service spots = more time for rides 

• Avoid long snack cart lines — as well as meltdowns — by having your own snacks.

Pack Light with a Durable Bag

• Try to pack lightly. It’s better to have one person navigating the lockers if you cant each use a Fanny

  • Cardigan for layering 

  • Portable fan 

  • Sunscreen + SPF chapsticks

  • Sunglasses and or Hat 

  • Poncho + umbrella

  • Extra socks

  • Refillable water bottle + electrolytes 

  • Fully charged power-bank + cord

  • Band-Aids 

  • OTC pain medication

Know The Showtime Schedules & Where to Meet Characters

• Double check the Universal Orlando app for showtimes. 

• Most shows such as The Triwizard Spirit Rally only perform at certain times.

• For the Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle show, ask a team member in Hogsmeade when the first viewing is expected. 

• The Hogwarts Castle light show starts shortly after dusk, and runs roughly every 15 minutes until park closing.

• Note: Some characters such as Beetlejuice don't have published set times, so you'll never know when/who you'll see!

Have a Safety Plan

• Designate a predetermined meeting spot in case your group splits up

•  (Ex: Universal Orlando Globe or the Voodoo Doughnut chair in CityWalk)

Not sure if you’re visiting during a busy time of year? Check out Undercover Tourist’s crowd calendar!