Top Things to Do as a First-Timer at Universal Orlando Resort
Are you planning a visit to Universal Orlando Resort and wondering what the must-do activities are for first-timers? Look no further because Vincent, a local and a big theme park enthusiast, has you covered with his recommendations and tips in this video. Let’s dive in and explore what places and experiences should be on your bucket list as a first-timer at Universal Orlando Resort.
Stay at a Universal Hotel
Before you head to the parks, Vincent suggests that you consider staying on the Universal property. There are seven different Universal hotels in various price ranges and tiers, ranging from the deluxe Portofino Bay and Hard Rock Hotel to the value resorts like Endless Summer. According to Vincent, there are many benefits to staying on-site, including easy access to the parks, some hotels having exclusive perks like unlimited express passes, and a variety of price ranges to accommodate your budget.
Buy Your Tickets Online
One thing that Vincent highly recommends is buying your tickets online ahead of time. This can save you valuable time and minimize frustration waiting in line at the gate. You can purchase tickets through Universal Orlando’s website or a reseller travel agent. The tickets can then be sent to you via email or installed through their mobile app. If you want a physical ticket as a souvenir, you can print it out at the Will Call kiosk.
Ride E.T. Adventure and The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man
According to Vincent, two rides are essential for a first-timer’s experience at Universal Orlando Resort – E.T. Adventure and The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man. The former ride is Universal’s original attraction when it first opened in 1990. It’s a classic dark ride that showcases how the park looked when it first opened. The latter, on the other hand, is one of the industry standards for 3D dark rides since it opened in 1999. It’s a thrilling ride that holds up to this day, making it a must-ride for first-timers.
Try Universal Orlando’s Roller Coasters
To get the full Universal experience, Vincent suggests that first-timers try at least one of Universal Orlando’s roller coasters. Universal Orlando is home to some unique and exciting coasters that you can’t find anywhere else in Orlando. Vincent lists Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure, the Velocity Coaster, and The Incredible Hulk Coaster as the best options. Though for those who aren’t ready to jump into a thrilling coaster, there are plenty of other options like Flight of the Hippogriff or Revenge of the Mummy.
Explore Live Shows and Character Meet-and-Greets
Universal Orlando Resort isn’t all about rides; the theme park has a variety of live shows and character meet-and-greets to keep you entertained. Vincent suggests taking the opportunity to explore one of the many live shows happening around the park, like the Bourne Stuntacular or the Horror Makeup Show. Additionally, there are tons of characters you can meet throughout the park. He encourages meeting Blue, the Velociraptor, in the Raptor Encounter and recommends joining the queue for unique entertainment.
Take the Hogwarts Express to the Other Park
One of the most popular attractions at Universal Orlando Resort is The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Diagon Alley is one of the most immersive and highly themed areas of the park. Vincent highly suggests exploring this area and trying Butterbeer. You can access The Wizarding World’s two different areas, Diagon Alley in Universal Studios and Hogsmeade in Islands of Adventure, through the Hogwarts Express train. Riding the train is a fantastic and unique way to get from one park to the other.
My Recommendations: Have Fun!
The ultimate goal of your Universal Orlando Resort visit is to have a blast. Vincent emphasizes doing whatever makes you happy. The theme park has so much to offer that, regardless of whether you want to take a break from rides to enjoy a snack and watch some live entertainment, you’ll never run out of things to do or discover. Vincent recommends buying a souvenir like the bar hat from Finnegan’s at the New York section of the park. In conclusion, Vincent wants you to enjoy your Universal Orlando Resort experience and to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Final Thoughts
There you have it, folks! Those are Vincent’s top things to do as a first-timer at Universal Orlando Resort. Now you can confidently prepare for your first visit and create unforgettable experiences knowing the must-do activities. Remember, from exploring Harry Potter’s journey to exploring the park’s roller coasters and live shows, there is something for everyone. Stay at a Universal hotel, buy tickets online, ride E.T. Adventure, and The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man, explore live shows and character meet-and-greets, take the Hogwarts Express, and most importantly, have fun.