Universal’s Dining Card Offer is an Amazing Value
Now is the time to book Universal Orlando. This gift card promo is amazing!
Universal Orlando is opening a new theme park in the summer of 2025. I know that many of you are anxiously awaiting this - how often does Orlando get a new theme park, right? But how does Universal keep the existing parks and hotels busy as most of us are holding off until Epic Universe opens?
To help put heads in the beds, Universal Orlando created a terrific offer:
Up to a $1,000 Dining Card Included in Select Vacation Packages
Book your 4+ night vacation package at Universal Orlando Resort and enjoy discounted promo tickets and a valuable dining card to enhance your stay!
Travel Window: November 7, 2024 - April 10, 2025
Hotels Included:
The Dining Gift Card Package Includes:
Up to $1,000 Food and Beverage Card for select food and beverage purchases across Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure, Universal Volcano Bay, Universal CityWalk, and all Universal Orlando Hotels (One Per Room)
4+ Night Hotel Accommodations with benefits of staying at a Universal Orlando Hotel
Free Universal Express Unlimited Ride Access (Select Hotels): Guests staying at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel®, and Loews Royal Pacific Resort can skip the regular lines at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. (Valid theme park admission required; select attractions.)
Early Park Admission† to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ and Universal Volcano Bay up to one hour before the park opens (valid theme park admission required. Select attractions.)
Complimentary transportation to the theme parks and Universal CityWalk
And More
2-Park or 3-Park Park-to-Park Vacation Package promo tickets for 4 or 5 days
The following tickets are available with this vacation package offer:
2-Park Park-to-Park ticket to Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure on the same day.
3-Park Park-to-Park ticket to Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure, and Universal Volcano Bay on the same day.
Free 5x7 Souvenir Photograph
Contact me today to find out how much YOUR dining card will be worth!
This offer is subject to availability. Early booking is highly recommended.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Soar with Dragons at Universal Orlando - Epic Universe
Rides, shows and dining coming to Isle of Berk at Universal Orlando
Universal Orlando shared more details on Epic Universe - How to Train Your Dragon - Isle of Berk. Something that stood out right away is that this land is rich in rides, and not virtual or motion simulator rides - actual rides! Dining options look amazing with a grand hall and character meet and greets.
On Berk, a rough and rocky island towering over turbulent waters, resides a vibrant village where Vikings and dragons coexist peacefully.
Here, your family can embark on a thrilling coaster ride to glide through the skies resembling dragons, engage in water battles at sea, and enjoy the lively spectacles presented by the fire-breathing inhabitants of the village.
Isle of Berk - Universal Orlando - Epic Universe
Map of Epic Universe at Universal Orlando
Isle of Berk - Universal Orlando - Epic Universe
Will Hiccup’s Wing Gliders be a Launch Coaster?
Universal says Hiccup’s Wing Gliders is Hiccup’s latest flying contraption that “launches you into the air.” Sounds like a launch coaster to me!
Isle of Berk - Universal Orlando - Epic Universe
This coaster will have you swooping and soaring along where you’ll encounter Hiccup and Toothless on your adventure.
Isle of Berk - Universal Orlando - Epic Universe
Dragon Racers Rally
At Dragon Racer’s Rally, Berk’s new Vikings can practice aerobatic maneuvers and high-speed barrel rolls on a massive swing ride. Universal says this swing will go upside down and that riders will be able to make it as wild or mild as they wish.
This ride looks similar to the swing rides built by S&S, a similar perhaps to Dollywood’s Barnestomer ride.
Isle of Berk - Universal Orlando - Epic Universe
Fyer Drill
Take to the sea for a new water ride where you’ll aim water cannons at targets and other objects (maybe even each other). Think Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin or Men in Black but with water!
Isle of Berk - Universal Orlando - Epic Universe
Viking Training Camp
Junious Vikings will have a colorful and interactive playscape. There will be multiple towers to climb, and agility course, Viking drums (kids love drums in theme parks for some reason). This area will have slides and activities just for the younger Vikings.
Shows Coming to Isle of Berk at Epic Universe
Isle of Berk - Universal Orlando - Epic Universe
The Untrainable Dragon
Universal says this will be a Broadway-style production with spectacular music and a heartwarming story.
The Untrainable Dragon will feature advanced technology and set pieces.
When a new dragon shows up on the Isle of Berk, the Vikings think they may have finally met their match.
Hiccup and Toothless, with help from Gobber and Astrid, work together to solve the mystery of The Untrainable Dragon.
Experience the wonder of dragons onstage and soaring overhead in their spectacular musical.
Dining at Isle of Berk
Isle of Berk - Universal Orlando - Epic Universe
Mead Hall
In this restaurant, you’ll be able to each and drink like a Viking! Mead Hall is the main table-service restaurant on the Isle of Berk. Looks massive!
The menu will include meat, fish, sandwiches and desserts.
Beverages will include assorted meads, ciders, and ales.
Featured Charcaters at Isle of Berk
Isle of Berk - Universal Orlando - Epic Universe
Meet Berk’s Best-Known Dragon and Viking - You’ll have a chance to meet and greet Hiccup and Toothless as they honor the bond between dragon and Viking.
Isle of Berk Street Characters - Stroll around Berk and meet some of your favorite Vikings and dragons including Astrid, Stormfly, Ruffnut, and Tuffnut; and the Night Lights by baby dragons. You may also catch Gobber at work in his forge.
Universal hints that you might also catch a glimpse of Monstrous Nighttime, or Gonckle dragons flying high above the village.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Best Easter Brunches at Universal Orlando 2024
The best places to have Easter dinner at Universal Orlando. The award-winning culinary teams at the Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Royal Pacific Resort and Loews Sapphire Falls Resort are preparing a lineup of Easter Sunday brunches on March 31st, 2024.
You can enjoy all-you-can-eat buffets and family-friendly entertainment that includes live music, face painters, and more! Entertainment varies by location.
Easter brunch at Universal Orlando Resort
Hard Rock Hotel
The Kitchen restaurant
Easter brunch will be from 7:00a to 4:00p and will include made-to-order omelets and eggs benedict. If you’re more into lunch mode, enjoy the carving station featuring herb-crusted prime rib, baked ham, and more! station, pancakes, waffles, and more.
And this is the Hard Rock Hotel so of course there will be live music too.
Adults ages 10+ $80, children ages 3 – 9 $35
Reservations are highly recommended. See the full menu here.
Loews Royal Pacific Resort
Islands Dining Room
Islands Dining Room has an Easter buffet planned from 11:00a to 4:00p. This all-you-care-to-enjoy buffet will include themed food stations including our sushi station and create-your-own stir-fry.
There will also be a carving station with five-spiced roasted duck accompanied by our blackberry chutney, and bone-in roasted pork loin with char sui BBQ sauce, among other selections.
The dessert station will feature 16 different options, including a pineapple upside-down cake.
During brunch, liver entertainment will feature a ukulele player and a hula dancer.
Adults ages 10+ $80, children ages 3 – 9 $35
Reservations are highly recommended. See more about the Islands Dining Room here.
Loews Sapphire Falls Resort
Amatista Cookhouse
Easter Brunch runs from 11:00a to 4:00p and includes Caribbean-inspired cuisine prepared right in front of you in our exhibition kitchen. Enjoy fresh greens from the salad station, charcuterie from the islands, an iced raw bar with ceviche selections and more.
It wouldn’t be an island-style Easter brunch without live music including a steelpan percussionist. The kids can have their faces painted for this special Easter dining event.
Adults: $80, children (ages 3 – 9): $35.
See the menu and make reservations here.
Easter brunch will be taking place through out many of the Universal Orlando hotels. These are just some of the highest-rated options. For a complete list of Easter dinner possibilities at Universal, click here.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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2025 Universal Orlando Vacation Packages Now on Sale
2025 Packages are here!
Universal Orlando Resort vacation packages are now available through April 30, 2025.
Velocicoaster at Universal Orlando Resort
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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How Much Does a Universal Orlando Vacation Really Cost in 2024?
How to budget for your Universal Orlando vacation.
The call of Universal Orlando’s thrilling rides, the immersive worlds, and the irresistible taste of butterbeer is undeniable. But before you grab your wand and head to Hogwarts, it's important to understand the financial realities of a Universal Orlando vacation.
Worry not, this guide delves deeper into the cost considerations, offering a map to navigate your Universal Orlando budget and maximize your vacation experience.
Universal Orlando Tickets: Your Gateway to Adventure
Theme Park tickets are a major component of your vacation. Prices fluctuate based on factors like travel dates, duration (how many days on your tickets), park combinations (Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, Volcano Bay), and whether you would like to visit just one park per day, or multiple parks on the same day.
If you are visiting Universal Orlando primarily to experience the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, I highly recommend the Park to Park feature for your tickets. Wizarding World spans both theme parks so you’ll want the ability to travel between both parks, which, by the way, is done via the Hogwarts Express Train - a major attraction.
Multi-day passes offer a big discount. The longer you stay, the cheaper your tickets get per day. A 1-day ticket is the most expensive.
Fun Fact! Universal Orlando is price-controlled, meaning prices are the same whether you book online, by phone, or through a travel agent.
Universal does all of its discounting in-house. As your travel agent, I ensure you get the most value by providing insider advice and watching for any future discounts.
Universal Orlando Express Passes
For those wanting to maximize their ride time, Universal Orlando offers Express Pass. Express Passes grant priority access to attractions, but come at an additional cost, ranging from $100 to $200 per day per person.
Consider your patience level and desired pace before taking this option.
Universal Premier Hotels includes Express Pass for free when you include theme park tickets as part of your package.
It may work out better to book a stay at a Premier hotel than to purchase Express Passes separately. I help clients determine this every day. Click here to have me do this for you.
There are single-park and multi-park Express Pass options plus the option to skip the line once-per-ride Express Pass Base), or skip the lines as many times as you want on each ride (Express Pass Unlimited).
The Premier Hotels include Express Pass Unlimited for free.
Accommodations: Choosing Your Universal Orlando Hotel
Universal Hotels: Immerse yourself in the magic with on-site hotels, offering perks like Early Park Admission and Express Pass options. Prices vary greatly depending on your chosen hotel tier.
Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort
Value hotels like Endless Summer start around $88 per night, while Premier hotels like the Royal Pacific Resort can reach $600 per night or more.
Remember, location and amenities influence the price tag.
Partner Hotels: Opt for more budget-friendly options just outside the parks. Expect rates ranging from $100 to $200 per night. Most are third-party chain hotels and some even offer a free breakfast.
I recommend the Drury Inn & Suites Near Universal Orlando because the amenities offered here are even better than some of the Universal hotels. Features like a free breakfast buffet, free transportation to the theme parks, free snacks, and Early Park Admission are all included with your stay.
Fueling Your Magical Adventures: Food and Beverage
Quick Service Dining: Yes, there are a lot of theme park favorites like burgers and pizza, but the Wizarding World of Harry Potter has Three Broomsticks and The Leaky Cauldron, both heavy on Harry Potter theming. Expect to spend $10-$20 per person per meal. The Quick Service options in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter are some of the most popular at Universal Orlando.
Table Service Dining: Indulge in themed restaurants like Hard Rock Cafe, The Palm Restaurant, Cowfish, and NBC Sports Grill. Prepare for $25-$35 per person per meal at Universal table service restaurants.
Snacks and Drinks: Budget $5-$10 per person for snacks and beverages throughout the day. I recommend investing in a Coke Freestyle refillable drink mug. A single refillable mug is $18 but the more you purchase, the cheaper they get. For example, if you buy 2 mugs, the price drops to $16 each. You get unlimited free refills throughout the day. To activate the cup on a different day, the cost is $10.99
Beyond the Essentials: Souvenirs and Special Experiences
Souvenirs are one thing people do not sufficiently plan for. They are everywhere and no one, and I mean no one, will be able to resist the temptation to buy something. Some of the most popular items: Interactive Harry Potter Wands start around $50. Butterbeer mugs range in price from $13 to $45. T-Shirts and casual apparel start around $35. Allocate $50-$100 per person for souvenirs, or adjust based on your willpower. Remember, resisting the allure of Diagon Alley's shops can be nearly impossible, even if you’re not a Harry Potter fan!
Approximate Cost of a Universal Orlando Vacation Package
When you book your vacation with me, you get expert, insider advice that can save you time and money. I’m a licensed and certified Universal Travel Agent. There’s no additional cost to you - Universal pays me to ensure you have a great vacation. Contact me today to get the best price and the best advice.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Update on Terra Luna Stella Nova Hotels | Universal Orlando Resort
Photo update on Epic Universe at Universal Orlando Resort
Universal Orlando is moving fast on its new theme park, Epic Universe. This week I took a drive out to see the progress.
The Stella Nova Hotel, Terra Luna Hotel, Helios Grand Hotel, and the new coaster, Starfall Racers are now clearly visible.
The dome on the Helios Grand Hotel has been installed. Guests staying at this hotel will have a private entrance into Celestial Park.
Helios Grand Hotel will have 500 premium rooms. It’s expected to open in the spring of 2025.
Starfall Racers is a dual-launch coaster that will reach speeds of up to 62 mph is now visible from the road.
With no external track lighting at night, the fully illuminated ride vehicles will give the illusion of comets shooting across the night sky above Celestial Park.
Universal Stella Nova Resort and Universal Terra Luna Resort will each feature 750 guest rooms in Universal Orlando’s Prime Value category.
These hotels will give Universal Orlando a total of 10,500 hotel rooms.
Check out my resort profiles:
When will Universal’s Stella Nova and Terra Luna Hotels open?
Guests will soon be able to book the Universal Stella Nova Resort for stays on January 21, 2025 and Universal Terra Luna Resort for stays in February 25, 2025.
And be sure to stay tuned to my blog, social media, and Newsletter. There might be a special announcement coming from Magical Vacations Travel.
Access road leading to Epic Universe. Stella Nova is on the right, Terra Luna is on the left.
Exterior panels going up on Terra Luna.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Universal Orlando - Save 25% on a 3-Park, 5-Night Hotel & Ticket Package
Universal Orlando Vacation Package Offer 2024
Save 25% on a Universal Orlando 3-Park, 5-Night Vacation Package.
Contact me today to experience all the amazing thrills Universal Orlando Resort’s three incredible theme parks have to offer and save big!
5-Night Hotel Accommodations at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort, Universal’s Aventura Hotel, or Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
3-Park 5-Day Park-to-Park Vacation Package Promo Ticket** to Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure, and Universal Volcano Bay each day
Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Universal Volcano Bay up to one hour before the park opens (valid theme park admission required; select attractions)
Complimentary transportation and walking paths to Universal’s theme parks and Universal CityWalk
Complimentary delivery of merchandise purchased throughout the resort to your hotel
Resort-wide charging privileges with your room key card
*Based on a family of 4, limited availability. Sun. – Thur. travel only. Blockout dates and restrictions apply.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Universal Orlando Ticket Offer - 2 Days FREE with 2-Day Ticket
For a limited time at Universal Orlando, get 2 Days Free with a 2-Park, 3-Day Ticket. In other words, you get a 5-Day Ticket for the price of 3. Ticket prices and availability vary by day. Valid for travel select dates Now – 2/29/24.
Get 2 Days Free with a 2-Park, 2-Day Ticket.
Restrictions apply. Valid for travel select dates 12/14/23 – 08/28/24. 2-Park and 3-Park versions are available that will include Volcano Bay Water Park.
Universal Orlando Resort - Ticket Offer
2-Park 2-Day Base + 2-Days Free Promo Ticket Dated – Entitles one (1) guest admission to EITHER Universal Studios Florida OR Universal Islands of Adventure per day. Ticket is valid for any four (4) calendar days during a seven (7) consecutive calendar day period which commences on and includes the date selected. The ticket will expire in full on the expiration date printed on ticket. Unused days will be forfeited.
2-Park 2-Day Park-to-Park + 2-Days Free Promo Ticket Dated – Entitles one (1) guest admission to BOTH Universal Studios Florida AND Universal Islands of Adventure on the same day. Ticket is valid for any four (4) calendar days during a seven (7) consecutive calendar day period which commences on and includes the date selected. The ticket will expire in full on the expiration date printed on ticket. Unused days will be forfeited.
3-Park 2-Day Base + 2-Days Free Promo Ticket Dated – Entitles one (1) guest admission to ONE (1) Universal Orlando Resort theme park per day: Universal Studios Florida OR Universal’s Islands of Adventure OR Universal’s Volcano Bay. Ticket is valid for any four (4) calendar days during a seven (7) consecutive calendar day period which commences on and includes the date selected. The ticket will expire in full on the expiration date printed on ticket. Unused days will be forfeited.
3-Park 2-Day Park-to-Park + 2-Days Free Promo Ticket Dated – Entitles one (1) guest admission to Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure, AND Universal Volcano Bay on the same day. Ticket is valid for any four (4) calendar days during a seven (7) consecutive calendar day period which commences on and includes the date selected. The ticket will expire in full on the expiration date printed on ticket. Unused days will be forfeited.
The above Admission Media is non-refundable, non-transferable, and must be used by the same person on all days. Standard entry includes biometric scan. Valid only during normal operating hours. Parks, attractions, or entertainment may: close due to refurbishing, capacity, weather or special events; change operating hours; and otherwise change or be discontinued without notice and without liability to the owners of Universal Orlando Resort (‘Universal’). Unless otherwise stated, the above Admission Media specifically excludes admission to separately ticketed events and venues at any of the Universal theme parks and/or CityWalk and excludes parking or discounts on food or merchandise. Some CityWalk venues require ages 21 or older for admission. Valid Photo ID required. Additional restrictions may apply and benefits are subject to change without notice.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Universal Orlando Using Facial Recognition to Enter Theme Parks
Universal Orlando Resort is using a new way for guests to enter its theme parks. If you have ever been to Universal Orlando at rope-drop, you know that getting into the parks was painfully slow.
Well, the facial recognition system isn’t much faster. On our visit, the system processed one person every 15 sections, on average, that’s about 4 people per minute.
Facial recognition at Universal Orlando Resort
With Photo Validation at Park Entry, you just scan your theme park ticket, look at the camera, and enter the park.
Photo recognition replaces the biometric finger scan at the turnstiles.
I don’t know about you, but the thought of placing my finger in the exact same spot as thousands of other people was unsettling, especially post-pandemic.
Photo Validation is optional and is not required for entry into the Universal Orlando Parks.
Guests will be able to opt-out directly at Park Entry if they desire.
If a Guest chooses to opt-out of Photo Validation, they are required to show a valid Photo ID upon entry to validate their entitlement.
Guests will not need to do anything separate like pre-enroll. The setup process is easy and done right at the turnstile when you enter the parks, starting today!
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Universal Orlando has provided these Frequently Asked Questions about how to enter the Universal Orlando Theme Parks using facial recognition technology.
What data does Universal Orlando collect?
Universal Orlando takes a photo the first time a Guest uses their entitlement. From that photo, the software builds a Photo Template. A Photo Template is a unique set of data points based on facial features. On subsequent entries to Universal Orlando Resort, the Photo Template created on entry will be compared to the stored templates to validate access and prevent fraud.
Will there be a separate entrance for Guests who opt out of Photo Validation?
No. Guests who opt out of Photo Validation will still be able to use the regular park entrance. Opting out simply tells our access control system to not prompt for Photo Validation when that Guest’s ticket is scanned. Guests who opt out of Photo Validation will be asked to present photo ID each time they use their entitlement.
Can a Guest opt back in to Photo Validation?
Yes, Guests who opt-out and want to opt back in can do so at the park entrance or Guest Services.
Does Photo Validation work in the dark?
Yes, the camera works in low-light and nighttime environments.
How long will the images be stored in your system?
Photo Templates will be stored for no longer than six months after the expiration of the associated ticket or other entitlement. This is consistent with our finger scan biometric process.
Is Photo Validation accessible to Guests in wheelchairs?
Yes. Photo Validation was created with all Guests in mind. Our cameras were built with a field of view to be able to validate Guests whether tall, short, seated in a wheelchair, and more!
Is there anything different Guests need to do before they get to the gate?
No, they simply approach the park entrance with their park ticket ready - just like they would today.
If I opt out after using Photo Validation for the first time, is my information deleted?
Once a guest opts out of Photo Validation, any images or Photo Templates created / stored are deleted.
If I opt out of Photo Validation, what happens?
If a Guest decides to opt out of Photo Validation, they will continue to enter the park using the same lanes as guests who do use Photo Validation. The only difference that a Guest who has opted out will experience is that they will be required to present a valid Photo ID to validate their ticket.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Universal Orlando Debuts Death Eaters in Diagon Alley in Wizarding World
An ominous presence returns to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort this fall as Death Eaters appear for the first time ever in Diagon Alley on select dates from Sept. 1 through Nov. 4.
Death Eaters at Wizarding World of Harry Potter | Universal Orlando
An ominous presence returns to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort this fall as Death Eaters appear for the first time ever in Diagon Alley on select dates from Sept. 1 through Nov. 4.
Diagon Alley is located in Universal Studios theme park.
A sinister energy will fill the air in Diagon Alley as guests encounter the villainous Death Eaters, devoted followers of Lord Voldemort who do not shy away from the practice of the Dark Arts.
This interactive live entertainment experience puts guests face-to-face with these fanatic witches and wizards as they roam through London, lurking their way through the cobbled streets of Knockturn Alley and challenging guests to join the Dark Lord.
While visiting Diagon Alley, guests also can shop for a variety of Death Eater-themed merchandise to embrace their sinister side.
From dining at the Leaky Cauldron to taking home a unique wand from Ollivanders or even experiencing the multi-dimensional thrill ride, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, there are many ways for guests to immerse themselves in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter-Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida.
For more information, see my Universal Wizarding World of Harry Potter page.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Insider’s Guide to the Universal Orlando Mobile App
Using the Universal Orlando Mobile App
The official Universal Orlando Resort mobile app includes a variety of tools and resources to help you before and during your Universal Orlando vacation.
The Universal Orlando app allows you to
Link park tickets
Place mobile food and drink orders
Join a virtual line
Create your own "must-do" list
Explore park maps and so much more
Insider Tip: The map has helpful features like Express Pass-enabled locations, height restrictions, show times, dietary options, and more.
Download the official mobile app (it’s free)
Once you download the app, create or sign in to your Universal account.
Set up your wallet
The wallet feature is known as Universal Pay. Using Universal Pay makes your day easier.
It’s most helpful when ordering food because Universal Orlando encourages mobile orders at quick-service restaurants.
You can place an order and pay for it right in the app (more on this below).
Using Universal Pay at Volcano Bay Water Park
Going to Volcano Bay water park? (It’s only the best water park in Orlando!) Leave your phone in your locker or in your beach bag and your bag of rice at home, you’re phone won’t be getting wet here.
You can purchase food, beverages, and merchandise using Tapu Tapu, a waterproof wristband that is provided upon entry to the park.
Use Tapu Tapu anywhere Universal Pay is accepted in the park. No need to carry your phone, cash, or cards in your bathing suit.
You can also set up and manage sub-accounts for others in your party and set spending limits so they can make purchases with Tapu Tapu as well. See my Tips for Volcano Bay here.
Tapu Tapu at Universal Orlando’s Volcano Bay Water Park
Use the App to Plan Your Trip
Scroll through the rides and shows that are available at each park.
Tap the heart on your favorite attractions to add them to your favorites list, making it easy to reference wait times and attraction details once you are in the park.
Doing this helps ensure that you won’t miss any must-dos while touring the parks.
Linking tickets to the Universal Orlando mobile app
If you booked a vacation package with me, you’ll pick up your tickets when you arrive at your Universal Orlando hotel.
To add a ticket to the mobile app, select “Scan Tickets & Add Ons” to scan the back of your ticket or enter your ticket number (located under the barcode).
If you need help, just ask a Team Member at the ticket desk, located inside the hotel lobby.
Placing Mobile Food and Drink Orders
Order ahead from select restaurants when you’re in the theme parks and at CityWalk.
How to place your mobile order
Open the side navigation and select "Mobile Food & Drink Ordering"
Select an available restaurant
Browse menu options and make customizations
Tap “Prepare My Order”
Wait at the pickup window to receive your order
Join Virtual Lines at Universal Orlando
During busier times of the year, some of Universal Orlando’s most popular attractions allow you to join a Virtual Line. Rather than stand in a physical line, you can reserve a time to ride and go off to enjoy other areas of the park. This feature is free.
Here’s how Virtual Lines work:
Pick your ride in the app
Join the queue for a time window that works for you
Show the Team Member your phone to scan and enter the attraction
The app will display the attractions that are offering a Virtual Line, if any. You can almost always find Race Through New York starring Jimmy Fallon as an option.
Depending on how crowded the park is, Universal may also offer Virtual Line on the following:
Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
Fast & Furious: Supercharged
Revenge of the Mummy
Universal Orlando adjusts Virtual Line throughout the day. The day may start off without any Virtual Lines being offered but as the park gets busier, some Virtual Lines may begin to come online. Universal may also remove the option during the day if it’s no longer needed - but they will still honor existing reservations.
Insider Tip! I recommend you check for Virtual Lines starting 20 minutes prior to the park opening time.
Insider Tip! Use the “Wait Time Alert” feature on the app to get notified if the wait for a favorite attraction is under a certain time. For example, you can set up an alert to be notified if the wait for Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure drops below 60 minutes.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 13 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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New offerings and returning favorites this year at Disney Springs