Plan your holiday trip to Universal Studios Florida & Islands of Adventure  with confidence! 

Here are some top tips to make the most out of your next Universal Orlando Holiday Vacation!

From experiencing Grinchmas, the Holiday Parade, Christmas at Hogwarts, there’s so many festive offerings to enjoy!

Beat the Holiday Crowds by Staying On-Site at Universal

Hands down the best way to manage the Universal Orlando holiday crowds. 

If in your budget, consider staying at one of Universal's premier hotels that offer Universal Express Unlimited. This unlimited skip-the-line ride access is good for your entire length of stay, including check-in and check-out. 

You’ll also save more time and money compared to buying Express Passes à la carte for each person in your family.

Another great perk— all of Universal's hotels offer one hour Early Park Admission to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which will give you ahead start on all the other park guests, especially during the busy holidays. 

The proximity and convenient access to the parks, makes it easy to go back to the hotel to take a break when the afternoon holiday crowds reach their peak.

Visit on a Weekday

A great way to experience lower Holiday crowds. Due to so many locals visit on the weekends, I recommend avoiding them if you can. If you cannot avoid it, definitely arrive early at the parks each morning.

Have a Flexible Plan Before You Arrive at Universal Orlando

• Know what and where your must-ride and must-do  attractions are located.

Pack Your Patience

There will be times during your vacation when it will feel like everyone on the planet decided to visit Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure during the exact same time as you. 

Knowing to expect high crowds at Universal Orlando during the Holidays will help you manage expectations.

Plan To Arrive Early and Stay Late

During the Holiday season, arriving early is one the most important tips for managing holiday crowds. 

Arriving at the park early before the gates open — is your first step to beating Universal Orlando holiday crowds. I would aim to be at the turnstiles at least 30-45 minutes before it opens.

Universal Orlando often times lets guests in 10-15 minutes before the official park opening time. 

If you’re there when this happens, then you can make your way over to the roped off area that’s closest to your first attraction. 

Once the rope drops, you’re off. Depending on the day and crowds, you can get several attractions done during those first few hours after park opening. 

Park Closing is another way to knock out some last-minute rides. Generally, crowds are lower during the park’s last hour of operation. I do recommend getting in line for you last attraction roughly 5-10 minutes before closing. As long as you’re in the queue when the park's closing hour hits, you’re all set.