Universal

Question

Hi everyone, looking for some advice, I’m travelling with my two daughters to Florida next year for an event, hotel and Disney World tickets all sorted, however we’d love to visit Universal to see Harry Potter, what is the best way to do this in terms of cost? Someone has recommended that doing a hotel/ticket package is cheaper than buying day tickets etc, this is our first time in Florida/Disney so any advice so welcome!! Thanks

Answer

Visiting Universal Orlando to see The Wizarding World of Harry Potter can be a fantastic addition to your Florida trip. Since you already have Disney World tickets and a hotel, the key is to balance cost with convenience and flexibility. Here are some detailed points to consider:

Ticket options:

Single-day park tickets: You can buy tickets for either Universal Studios Florida or Islands of Adventure. If your goal is mainly Harry Potter, you’ll need a park-to-park ticket so you can ride the Hogwarts Express between the two parks.
Multi-day tickets: If you plan to spend more than one day, multi-day tickets reduce the daily cost. This is useful if you want to explore other attractions beyond Harry Potter.
Discounts via hotel packages: Some Universal partner hotels offer package deals that include hotel stay and park tickets. These packages sometimes include early park admission, free shuttle service, or a small discount compared to buying tickets separately.

Cost-saving tips:

Check official Universal Orlando website deals first, as they often have seasonal promotions and special rates for Florida residents or advance purchases.
Third-party vendors like Undercover Tourist, Costco Travel, or AAA sometimes offer slightly cheaper tickets than buying directly, but make sure the source is reputable.
If you’re only going for one day and mainly to see Harry Potter, a single park-to-park ticket may be more cost-effective than a full multi-day ticket.
Visiting during off-peak times (non-holiday, weekday) can reduce cost and also wait times, making your day more enjoyable.

Other considerations:

Universal’s Express Pass (skip-the-line) is not included in standard tickets. It can be expensive but may be worth it if you are visiting during busy periods to maximize time.
Transportation: If staying at a non-Universal hotel, consider Uber/Lyft or rental car. Some Universal partner hotels offer complimentary shuttles to the parks.
Plan ahead: Check park maps and show schedules. Harry Potter attractions can be crowded, so prioritize rides like Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey or Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure.

In summary, the most cost-effective approach depends on whether you want a single day just for Harry Potter or multiple days for broader exploration. Hotel/ticket packages can offer convenience and minor discounts, but buying individual park-to-park tickets for a day may be sufficient if your goal is mainly the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Always compare official Universal deals with reputable third-party vendors to get the best price.

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