Universal Orlando in Florida is comprised of two theme parks, Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure (also known as IOA), along with CityWalk (a nightlife/dining/entertainment complex) and three on-site hotels. Over the years it has grown from a day trip to a vacation destination in its own right.
Now with the Spring 2010 opening of the new Wizarding World of Harry Potter attraction inside of IOA, more people than ever will be making a visit to this Orlando attraction.
But like nearby Walt Disney World, a visit to Universal Orlando can get quite expensive with daily park admission starting at $82 per adult. Add on parking fees, food/beverages, souvenirs and other optional items, and it may seem like a vacation here is out of reach for the budget traveler.
Not so if one uses these tips to save money and get more bang for the buck when visiting Universal Orlando.
Buy Admission Tickets and Passes in Advance
Quite often, Universal Orlando has specials on multi-day tickets. Unfortunately these are almost always available online only and not at the park ticket windows. With deals ranging from discounts to free days, it's worth it to book passes well in advance via the website.
As an added bonus, already having admission tickets in hand means not having to spend time in line at the pass-seller windows (wait times here can average 30 minutes or more during peak seasons). Just head straight to the entrance turnstiles and walk right in.
Consider Buying an Annual Pass
If visiting the park more than two days, consider buying an annual Preferred or Premium Pass for at least one person in the group, instead of a daily park pass. Not only is parking included for holders of this pass (a 2010 savings of $12 per day!), but the pass gives a 10% or more discount on food and merchandise throughout the property.
AAA/CAA Member Discounts
Members of AAA and CAA motor clubs not only get discounts on admission tickets purchased at the club's offices in advance of the trip, but flash the card inside the park for a 10% discount on food and merchandise. The Hard Rock Cafe also offers the 10% discount to members.
American Express Card Holder Discounts
Those who have an American Express credit card receive special discounts on tickets, along with additional benefits at the park during events like Mardi Gras.
Military Discounts
Members of the U.S. military have special discounts available to them, as well. In 2010, this includes a free pass for active duty and retired military personnel and discounted companion tickets. Inquire at the guest services window for current discounts before entering the parks.
Stay at an On-Property Resort
There are three official Universal Orlando resorts: Portofino, Hard Rock and Royal Pacific. While it may seem counter-intuitive to spend more to stay at these resorts than an off-property hotel, it can actually save in the long run.
This is because the room keys at these resorts function as Express Passes for all Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure rides and attractions that offer the Express lanes. For a family of four this can be a savings of $100 or more per day right there.
Visit During Festivals and Special Events
The Universal Orlando theme parks have several festivals and special events that occur on an annual basis and are included with normal park admission. These include Mardi Gras (February through April) with free concerts from internationally-known chart toppers like Sheryl Crow, 3 Doors Down and Aretha Franklin; and winter events like the Macy's Christmas Parade (with actual balloons from the New York City parade). These give added value to the money spent on park admissions.
Stack the Discounts for Universal Orlando
In many cases, the above discounts and tips can be used with each other. By doing so, a longer, less expensive visit to Universal Orlando can be well within any vacationer's budget. For more information on ticket savings and the parks, please visit the Universal Orlando website.
Michelle Snow - Michelle Snow been a freelance journalist and photographer for over twenty years, specializing in travel and entertainment. She got her ...
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