It’s fun to plan a Universal Studios vacation to coincide with one of the park’s biggest annual events. While daily you can take in the Universal Superstar Parade or one the unforgettable shows, why not plan your visit to include a special annual event?

Spring: Mardi Gras

Celebrate Mardi Gras at Universal Studios with live entertainment that includes 14 different concerts and 1.7 million beads tossed into the air during the spectacular parade that features colorful floats, street performers and live music. In the French Quarter Courtyard indulge in some of Central Florida’s best Cajun and Creole food while listening to authentic zydeco bands. You won’t want to miss the delectable delights of classic jambalaya, Creole gumbo, fresh Andouille sausage, red beans and rice and the best beignets.

Summer: Rock the Universe

Only at Universal Studios Orlando, Rock the Universe is Florida’s largest Christian Music Festival. This summertime extravaganza features two nights of hot Christian rock plus guest speakers and a Candlelighting Ceremony.

Fall: Halloween Horror Nights

One of the biggest Halloween events in the country, Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights runs from mid-September through October 31. When the sun goes down, the ghouls come out. Venture into the Universal Studios theme park, only if you love to be scared. You’ll find creatures lurking in the scare zones, haunted houses to explore and spook-tacular live shows. The event is not recommended for children under the age of 13.

Winter: A Celebration of Harry Potter

It’s the ideal event for all Harry Potter fans, all ages. The three-day event includes meet-and-greet with various actors from the Harry Potter films as well as special discussions, demonstrations and more. Explore Diagon Alley, have a meal in the Leaky Cauldron and don’t forget to wear your wizard’s robes.

Holiday Events

The holidays are a very special time at Universal Studios and include exclusive events designed to delight guests of all ages. These include The Macy’s Holiday Parade with authentic floats direct from New York City’s The Macy Thanksgiving Day Parade. The parade also includes marching bands, live performers and of course, Santa Claus.

Universal Studios Orlando offers a fun and exciting escape from reality within its theme park walls. In addition to the more than a dozen rides and attractions, the park is home to unforgettable live performances, character meet-and-greets plus some of the best counter service dining options in Central Florida.

Leaky Cauldron (Diagon Alley)

Step into the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and enter Diagon Alley. On your left, you’ll find the Leaky Cauldron, a Counter/Quick Service restaurant serving a mix of American and British fare. Stop in for breakfast, lunch or dinner and be sure to order a Butterbeer—order it cold or hot. Go for the traditional bangers and mash or Toad in the Hole with Yorkshire pudding. The kids may enjoy the fish and chips as well as the sticky toffee pudding for dessert.

Mel’s Drive-In (Hollywood)

Located in the Universal Studios land known as “Hollywood” across from the Horror Make-up Show, this counter service restaurant is a step back in time. Mel’s Drive-In design comes from the classic movie American Graffiti. Adults and kids alike will love the nostalgic restaurant, complete with classic automobiles parked out front—perfect for a photo op. The menu is classic diner food and includes everything from burgers and fries to grilled sandwiches, onion rings and sweet treats like ice-cream floats.

Fast Food Boulevard (World Expo/Springfield area)

Located across from The Simpsons Ride, the Fast Food Boulevard offers a variety of tasty counter service options from some very familiar Simpsons’ characters. Choices include Krusty Burger, Flaming Moe’s, Luigi’s Pizza, Cletus’ Chicken Shack, the Frying Dutchman and Lisa’s Teahouse of Horror. There’s truly something for everyone along Fast Food Boulevard including savory burgers, wraps, salads, chicken, pulled pork, pizza and delicious seafood. Don’t forget to stop at the Lard Lad for a giant donut when you’re ready for dessert.

Louie’s Italian Restaurant (New York)

Step out of the Florida sun and into the air-conditioned comfort of Louie’s Italian Restaurant, located between Beetlejuice and Revenge of the Mummy. The large restaurant serves up traditional Italian specialties like spaghetti with meatballs, pizza and a creamy fettuccine Alfredo as well as succulent turkey legs and sweet gelato for dessert. The kids’ menu even has peanut butter and jelly if you’re dining with a picky eater.

Other must-try counter service restaurants in Universal Studies include the Beverly Hills Boulangerie, Café La Bamba and Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour.

Budgeting for the perfect vacation can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, there are several ways to save money during your Universal Studios Orlando vacation. Whether you’re planning a one-day visit to the Universal Studios theme park or a week’s stay at the Universal Studios resort, you can save big in some of the most unexpected ways.

Book a Universal Studios Vacation Package

A Universal Studios vacation package can help save money by allowing you to bundle your theme park tickets with your resort hotel stay and even your flight, if traveling by air. A vacation package with reservations at an exclusive Universal Studios resort hotel provides free transportation to Universal Studios parks and even early admission hours so you can get in on the fun before guests staying off-site.

Opt for the Dining Plan

The Universal Orlando Dining Plan makes it fun, easy and affordable to enjoy the best restaurants throughout Universal Studios. There are different dining plan options including the full Universal Dining Plan with each person in your group receiving one full-service meal, one- quick-service meal, one snack and one non-alcoholic beverage per day. There are more than 100 dining locations that honor the plan throughout Universal Studios.

Staying Off-Site? Look for Coupon Deals

If you’re staying at an off-site hotel during your Orlando visit, look for great coupon deals before beginning your day at Universal Studios. Check with your hotel concierge for coupons good for percentages off merchandise purchased in the Universal Studios park (great for saving on souvenirs) and even for discounted dining vouchers. If you’re a AAA member, remember to bring your card with you to the park to receive a percentage off at various restaurants.

Pack Park Essentials Like Sunscreen

Save yourself money by buying park essentials like sunscreen (a must-have when spending the day in the Florida sun) before you arrive. Make a list the essentials you’ll need for the day before your vacation begins. These should include things like sunscreen, hats, autograph books for character signatures and any baby items needed like diapers and wipes. While many of these items are available throughout the Universal Studios park, it’s more affordable to purchase them before arrival.

Make it a vacation to remember by staying on-site at Universal Studios. Staying at a Universal Studios Orlando resort hotel has multiple benefits plus it puts you in the heart of all the fun and excitement this unique theme park has to offer.

1. Themed Resorts with Character Appearances

Each Universal Studios resort hotel has its own theme. From the 50s and 60s retro themed Cabana Bay resort hotel to the iconic Hard Rock Hotel, there’s something for everyone. Themes are carried throughout each resort hotel, from the lobby to the rooms and pool areas. Plus every resort hotel has special character appearances, perfect for kids of all ages.

2. Early Park Admission into the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

If you’re staying on-site at a Universal Studios resort hotel, you receive early park admission into the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Early park admission is one hour before the theme park’s opening hour.

3. Complimentary Transportation

Guest staying at any Universal Studios resort hotel enjoy complimentary transportation to any of the Universal Studios theme parks. In addition, the on-site hotels feature paved walking paths that allow walking access into Universal Studios parks.

4. On-site Child Care

Families staying at a Universal Studios resort hotel may choose the on-site child care facilities. This is a great option for parents who’d like to enjoy a date night dinner during their vacation stay or an afternoon getaway to the spa. The Universal Studios highly-trained staff entertains your little ones with books, board games, arts-and-crafts, movies and more.

5. Complimentary Merchandise Delivery from Parks

It’s easy to find the perfect souvenir to commemorate your vacation when in the Universal Studios theme park. However, it’s often awkward to carry that souvenir around all day on rides. If you’re staying in a Universal Studios resort hotel, you can have that souvenir or any other purchased merchandise delivered back to your room, free of charge. So go ahead grab that adorable stuffed Minion doll, have it sent back to your room and never worry about leaving it behind on a ride.

6. Priority Seating at Select Restaurants

As a Universal Studios resort hotel guest you may be eligible for priority seating at select restaurants through Universal Studios. Check with you hotel concierge for details and to make a dining reservation.

Planning a visit to Universal Studios Orlando with a toddler has its challenges. However, there are ways to help reduce the risk of a toddler melt-down during your day in the park.

Know the Ride Height Requirements

Certain rides have height requirements as a safety feature. Before visiting Universal Studios, check out online the height requirements for rides that may interest your toddler. Little ones need to be at least 36-inches tall to ride Woody Woodpecker’s Nuthouse Coaster and at least 34-inches tall to ride E.T. Adventure. Children standing 40-inches tall can ride Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, The Simpsons Ride and even TRANSFORMERS: The Ride-3D. There is no height restriction for Shrek 4-D.

Plan for Breaks

There is a lot to see and do in the Universal Studios theme park—more than a dozen rides and attractions, shows, a spectacular parade, great places to eat and even two play areas just for the littlest visitors. Help keep your toddler from becoming over-tired and cranky by planning breaks throughout your visit, especially if you plan to be in the park from open to close. Take a break and enjoy a frozen treat from Hollywood or Bust, a cold drink from Lagoon Lemonade, or visit the San Francisco Candy Company for a candied apple.

Be Flexible

Traveling with a toddler or children of any age means being flexible. You toddler may chatter continuously about how much he wants to meet a Minion but when the time comes and he suddenly changes his mind, it’s often easier to go with the flow. He may be overwhelmed be the sights and sounds of the park and need a break.

Stay Hydrated

Central Florida is hot. The average temperature in July and August is 92-degrees—often temperatures soar much higher. To keep your toddler and every member of your group healthy and happy, it’s essential to stay hydrated. While a carbonated beverage may taste great, opt for plain water to maximize hydration for your toddler as well as everyone else in your group.

Follow these easy tips for taking a toddler to Universal Studios and your visit may be happier and less stressful.

Universal Studios in Orlando offers non-stop fun for visitors to this Florida vacation hot-spot. With more than a dozen rides and attractions, the Universal Studios theme park has something for everyone. To get the most out of your visit, consider these top tips for spending the day at Universal Studios.

Stay On-site at a Universal Studios Theme Hotel

When you stay on-site at one of the amazing theme hotels, you’re immersed in the whole Universal Studios vacation experience plus you can walk to the theme park. There are multiple benefits staying in a Universal Studios theme hotel including early admission into the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, priority seating at restaurants within the Universal Studios theme park and more.

Don’t Miss the Superstar Parade

Universal’s Superstar Parade is a must-see! The daily, interactive parade features favorite spectacular floats, entertainers and characters like the cast of Despicable Me, SpongeBob SquarePants, and even a drum line led by E.B. from Hop. The parade makes regular stops at Mel’s Drive In and Battery Park so you can meet and greet your favorite characters.

Visit Diagon Alley After Lunch

Located at the far end of the park, Diagon Alley in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter between Disaster and Fear Factor Live, is one of the most popular attractions. Many visitors to Universal Studios head straight to this attraction when entering the park first in the morning. To avoid the morning rush, plan your visit to Diagon Alley after lunch, when the crowds often are lighter.

Plan to Enjoy Signature Snacks

Universal Studios teems with mouthwatering, unique treats that you can’t find at any other theme park. Plan on indulging in a few (or all of them) during your visit. Enjoy a butterbeer in Diagon Alley, a Krusty burger and Lard Lad giant donut in Springfield (home of the Simpsons), or the chocolate guava cake from Café La Bamba on Sunset Boulevard. Adults even can try a real Duff Beer in Springfield.

Other top tips for your Universal Studios visit include taking time for character meet-and-greets, catching the Horror Make-up Show and enjoying some people-watching while relaxing in Central Park.

The first visit to Universal Studios Orlando will always be remembered. There’s so much to see and do, you don’t want to miss out on certain attractions and activities. Check out these top tips for a first visit to the Universal Studios theme park in central Florida.

Make a List of Must-do Rides

Have everyone in your party visit Universal Studios online to check out the various attractions and rides. Some have height requirements and to avoid disappointment during the visit, plan for an alternative activity for those that don’t meet the requirements. If the teens are riding the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, take the younger kids to the Despicable Me Minion Mayhem ride. Riders for the latter only need to be 40-inches tall.

Some of the most popular rides include:

• Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
• Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
• Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
• Shrek 4-D
• Revenge of the Mummy (roller coaster)
• The Simpsons Ride
• Terminator 2: 3-D
• Transformers: The Ride 3-D
• MEN IN BLACK Alien Attack

Plan to Experience the Superstar Parade

The Universal Studio’s Superstar Parade runs daily through the park, entertaining all ages. The parade features your favorite character’s including SpongeBob SquarePants, Dora, E.B. plus Gru with the Minions, Agnes, Edith and Margo. There’s music, dancing, aerial acrobatics, tumblers and magnificent floats. The Superstar Parade pauses in front of Mel’s Drive-in and you can get an up-close look at all the characters.

Visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley

You’ve read the books and seen the movies, now experience the magic in person. Have lunch at the Leaky Cauldron and shop at Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes before stepping into Gringotts for a multi-dimensional thrill ride you won’t forget. Check out Ollivanders and Borgin and Burkes for all your wizarding fare.

See the Shows

On a first visit, don’t miss the Universal Orlando’s Horror Make-up Show. This live theatrical presentation takes you behind the scenes for the secrets of how Hollywood horror movie make-up and special effects are created. There’s iconic movie clips plus real-life prop and creature make-up demonstrations. Some images may be too intense for the youngest guests, so Parental Guidance is suggested.

One of the greatest things about vacations is the food. Universal Studios Orlando offers some of the most unique and delicious dining options in central Florida. From quick service meals that you can grab in between rides to sit-down meals that will make you feel as if you’ve stepped into your favorite movie, dining at Universal Studios is an event.

Springfield Dining

Springfield offers a cornucopia of dining options, from sweet treats to mouth-watering burgers. If you’re a fan of The Simpsons, then a bite from one of the Springfield eateries is a must during your visit to Universal Studios. Enjoy a meal from Krusty Burger or Cletus’ Chicken Shack or some fried shrimp at The Frying Dutchman. Lisa’s Teahouse of Terror offers healthy options like salads and wraps while Lard Lad Donuts has treats galore. Enjoy beverages at Moe’s Tavern and the Duff Brewery.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley Dining

A visit to Universal Studios isn’t complete without experiencing the magic of Harry Potter. Stop by Diagon Alley for a pumpkin juice, perfect before shopping at Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes. Enjoy a sit-down meal at the Leaky Cauldron, washed down with an authentic Butterbeer or a frozen treat from Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour, which also serves breakfast items.

Lombard’s Seafood Grille

A full-service restaurant serving lunch and dinner daily, Lombard’s Seafood Grille effortlessly transports guests from central Florida to San Francisco’s iconic Fisherman’s Wharf. The flagship restaurant for Universal Studios Orlando, Lombard’s Seafood Grille offers mouth-watering meals like lobster bisque, clam chowder, fish tacos, Mahi, Mahi and the Lombard’s signature burger. While seafood is the specialty, there are ample non-seafood choices as well, including sandwiches, salads and pasta dishes. A children’s menu is available.

Other Dining Options in Universal Studios

Universal Studios has many dining choices including quick-service eateries and food carts. Be sure to check out Mel’s Drive-In located in Hollywood along with Schwab’s Pharmacy for delectable ice cream sundaes. Production Central is home to the Universal Studios’ Classic Monsters Café which offers pizza, rotisserie chicken and more, while in the New York area you can find everything from smoked turkey legs to genuine Irish pub food at Finnegan’s Bar and Grill.

Universal Studios, Orlando offers tons of thrills for teens of all ages with rides that twist, turn and hit all the senses. From action-packed 3-D simulator-style rides to stomach-flipping roller coasters, your teen will enjoy every minute.

Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit

Interactive, immersive and one of the most high-tech attractions in Universal Studios, the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit also is Orlando’s tallest roller coaster with the world’s first non-inverting loop. Not for the faint of heart, this ride reaches speeds of 65 miles-per-hour and soars 17-stories over the park. Riders get to rock out to the song of their choice during this multi-sensory coaster experience. It’s unique, thrilling and not-to-be-missed.

Revenge of the Mummy

Another action-packed roller coaster, the Revenge of the Mummy plunges riders into total darkness where danger is lurking in the form of scarab beetle swarms, massive fireballs and the warrior mummies of the evil Imhotep. This ride is recommended for teens and everyone who does ride must be at least 48-inches tall for safety.

MEN IN BLACK Alien Attack

Located in Universal Studio’s World Expo area, the MEN IN BLACK Alien Attack is an exciting, interactive adventure ride. Once you’ve boarded your transport, it’s time to chase down those aliens through the New York streets just like Agents Kay and Jay. Keep an eye out because these aliens do shoot back and soon you’ll find your transport spinning out of control. Feeling competitive? Good, because for every alien zapped, you earn points which affect the rides final outcome.

Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts

Even if you’ve never read a Harry Potter book or seen a Harry Potter movie (is that possible?) you’ll enjoy Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts at Universal Studios. A multi-dimensional thrill ride it’s perfect for teens and the family. Riders must be 42-inches to ride this 3-D adventure. Not only will you experience the majesty of Gringotts’ bank grand marble lobby but you’ll see the goblins as they work. The ride journey takes you deep underneath the bank where you’ll have to thwart the multiple security measures to escape safely.

Stepping into Universal Studios, Orlando is like stepping into your favorite movies and television shows. Between the thrilling theme park rides and spectacular live entertainment there’s something for every visitor, any age.

One of the most popular activities at Universal Studios is meeting favorite characters in person. Get a hug from Minion or take your picture with Optimus Prime—these are the moments that make vacation memories.

Characters to Meet

Throughout the Universal Studios theme park guests can meet a variety of popular characters. Some have set meet-and-greet times, while others do not. During the daily Superstar Parade, you can even catch several of your favorites when the parade stops in front of Mel’s Drive-in.

In Universal Studios the following characters have designated meet-and-greet times:

• Shrek, Fiona and Donkey
• SpongeBob SquarePants
• Barney and his friends

For the most current meet-and-greet times and locations for grab a park map when you enter for the day.

Other characters that may be seen in the theme park include but are not limited to:

• Bart Simpson and other Simpson characters, including Krusty the Clown
• Gru, Agnes, Margo, Edith and the Minions
• Dora and Diego
• Curious George and the Man in the Yellow Hat
• Scooby Doo and his pal Shaggy
• The Transformers: Optimus Prime, Bumblebee and Megatron
• The Men in Black
• Lucille Ball
• Marilyn Monroe
• Doc Brown

Other characters like Spider-Man, Captain America, the Cat in the Hat and Woody Woodpecker can be found in the adjacent theme park Islands of Adventure.

Best Ways to Get Autographs

When you’re at Universal Studios and plan to meet the various characters in person, collection autographs and taking pictures, be ready with a marker, something to write on and your camera. The best type of “pens” for collecting character autographs are markers that click open—you don’t want to have to fumble with a cap. Keep all your autographs in one place with an autograph book and be sure to print the name of the character on the page after getting it signed as well.