Things to Do at Universal Orlando

Here are 25 things to do at Universal Orlando. If you’re planning a Universal Orlando vacation, this guide for what to do at Universal Studios is for you.

There are some “must-dos” at Universal Orlando, from snapping a photo at the iconic Universal Globe to exploring the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Do I need a rental car for a Universal vacation?

If you decide to rent a car in Orlando, I recommend renting one from Discount USA Car Rental.

Discount USA Car Rental offers the best pricing, whether you’re flying into Orlando or Sanford. As a bonus, you don’t have to pay anything until arriving at the airport; cancellation is free.

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25 things to do at Universal Orlando

Here are the best things to do at Universal Orlando, listed in no particular order. If you enjoy these, make sure to also check out 10 things to do in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter for adults.

Take Pictures at the Universal Sign

Whether heading to the park early or in the afternoon, stop and grab a photo in front of the sign. If you have a photo pass, there are usually photographers there to do it for you. I love doing this because I can see how much my kids grow! My oldest now towers over me and this was only a few years ago!

the best photo spots at Universal

Wander Through the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

One of the main reasons people visit Universal Studios Orlando is to visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Early Park admission (included if you book with a Universal Travel Agent or stay in a Universal hotel) comes in really handy for this!

You’ll find Diagon Alley at Universal Studios. Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts is one of my favorite rides, and it’s easy to find. Just look for the dragon!

First Timer Tips for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure, Flight of the Hippogriff, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey are all found in Islands of Adventure.

I recommend purchasing the Universal Express Pass if you want to skip a long wait time during your visit or stay in one of the Universal hotels that comes with Express Pass, such as Hard Rock Hotel.

Just keep in mind that Hagrid’s still does not accept Express Pass!

Park-to-park tickets are a must for any Harry Potter fan, or really anyone! That is the only way to ride the Hogwarts Express, which takes you between the parks. Hogsmeade Station is at Islands of Adventure, and King’s Cross Station is at Universal Studios.

Your experience on the train will be different each way. So, while the lines are long, I recommend riding the train both ways for the best experience.

Things to do at the Wizarding World

If your kids haven’t read the Harry Potter books, make sure you read at least book one before heading to Universal. You can also check out 30+ Movies to watch before going to Universal.

Don’t miss Ollivanders Experience in Diagon Alley for the wand show. If you have a child near 11, they might even get chosen!

Check out a sneak peek of the Wand Ceremony with Mikaela on YouTube.

Do the VIP Experience

Early park admission can help you access certain park areas quickly. However, as the day goes on, the park will fill up with people.

So, what is the best way to enjoy all the rides while enjoying special benefits? I recommend doing the VIP Experience!

You can choose a VIP Experience in one park or do it in both. Your tour guide will show you all the fun things throughout the parks. You will have the best time as you conquer all the top things on your list.

The good news is you can do a VIP Experience with another group or choose a Private VIP Experience.

Enjoy the thrilling Hulk Coaster

The Hulk Coaster is located at Islands of Adventure. This is one of the best roller coasters at Universal Orlando.

There are seven inversions that your family will race through at 67 miles per hour!

Ride Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit

Another roller coaster is Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit. Although, this one offers a more heart-racing experience. You will zip upwards at a near-vertical climb as the music plays loud. This ride is closing in 2025, perhaps permanently, so ride it while you can!

thrill rides at Universal

Have Fun on the Simpsons Ride

This motion simulator ride will make you feel like you are on a roller coaster. If anyone in your family is prone to motion sickness, take any and all precautions. We swear by our Emeterm wristbands.

Pretend to Stay Up Late Watching New York Starring Jimmy Fallon

Have you ever stayed up late to watch the Jimmy Fallon show? Well, if you haven’t, now is the time to see what all the hype is about!

During this simulated ride, you race through the streets of New York City. The goal is to see who can reach the studio first. There are many special effects during this ride that will surprise and delight your entire family.

Enjoy Universal’s worst ride

Universal Orlando is known for its rides based on movies. Fast & Furious Supercharged is one of those rides. It’s also famous for being the most hated ride at Universal. Try it out and see if you agree!

See the Aliens on E.T. Adventure

Your family will love stepping back in time to spend a little time with E.T. This is one of three original attractions at Universal Orlando.

Do you know the other two? They are the Animal Actors Show and Horror Makeup Show!

You will all ride a flying bike through the sky as you try to take E.T. home. One of the best things about this ride is that it is personalized. You give your name when you enter the ride, and your name is called out to welcome you home at the end.

Be Scared on the Revenge of the Mummy

Revenge of the Mummy is an indoor roller coaster. This completely dark ride has plenty of special effects. Although, you might not see them if you are too scared to keep your eyes open.

This is one of my favorite rides. It’s also great to do on a hot day or a rainy day since it’s indoors.

things to do at Universal Orlando

Be a Kid Again Seuss Landing

Seuss Landing is a great place for younger children at Universal’s Islands of Adventure. On the Caro-Seuss-el, the whole family can ride their favorite characters. Spend your time making your character’s ears wiggle, heads turn, and eyes blink.

the best Instagram spots at Universal

There is also One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish, and The Cat in the Hat. Don’t skip The High in the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride. You can see the entire Seuss Landing and other theme park areas during this ride.

Suess Landing is even better at Christmas, or Grinchmas, where you can experience the Grinchmas show and meet characters from the show, including Mr. Grinch himself!

Endless Summer Surfside Inn and Suites Review

Ride the Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man

The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man is one of the most popular attractions at Universal’s Islands of Adventure and is one of many 3D rides. Fun fact, if you look closely, you’ll see Stan Lee four times during the ride!

See the Dinosaurs on the Jurassic World VelociCoaster

This is one of the most thrilling rides in the world, and it utilizes a launch system. When you go on this rollercoaster, you must be prepared to go from 0 to 50 mph in only 2 seconds.

You’ll reach speeds of 70 miles per hour on this ride! Then, there is a steep plunge of 140 feet. Oh, and a few barrel rolls over the water!

Don’t worry; the little kids don’t have to go on this one. They won’t mind walking through the queue and seeing all the dinosaurs, and they play Camp Cretaceous in Child Swap!

best thrill rides at Universal

Participate in Halloween Horror Nights

Halloween Horror Nights is one of the special events held at Universal Orlando every year. This spooky event is held on select nights during the months of September and October.

In addition to all the rides at Universal Orlando, you will find so much more during this special event. There are 10+ haunted houses and at least five scare zones. Themed drinks and foods are also available, as well as other HHN merchandise. Keep in mind this event requires a separate ticket and is recommended for 13+.

Have Fun at Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras at Universal Orlando is a special event held every spring, typically early February through April. There is vibrant music, entertaining street performers, and a nightly parade.

Collect as many beads as possible and enjoy food from all over the world. This event is for all ages and requires no separate ticket.

Universal Studios Planning Guide

Be Competitive on the Men in Black Alien Attack Ride

One of the best rides at Universal Studios is Men in Black Alien Attack. Aliens are attacking New York City, and your job as an agent in training is to get rid of them all.

the best photo spots at Universal

This is a great family ride, but be warned that it may spark some competitiveness! Can you get a perfect score of 999,999? It’s much harder than you think!

Wander Around Universal CityWalk

There are so many things to do at City Walk! You can eat dinner, try an escape room, go shopping, or play a round of mini-golf Hollywood Drive-In Golf.

things to do at Universal Orlando

Make sure to check out our CityWalk Orlando Restaurants List.

Watch a Show

If this is your first time at Universal Orlando, you may be so focused on the rides you forget about the shows, but don’t! We love Animal Actors on Location, and the Bourne Stuntacular is unlike any other show you’ve seen. Check the app for showtimes for the big shows like this and smaller shows like Beatbuilders.

Tackle the Water Rides at Islands of Adventure

You don’t need to visit Universal’s Volcano Bay to get soaked on water rides. Dudley Do Right’s Ripsaw Falls is one of the most popular water rides at the park and is a typical plunge-type ride. Jurassic Park River Adventure is a little calmer but also has a drop at the end.

Popeye and Bluto’s Bilge Rat Barges holds the title for the wettest waterride at Universal. Prepare to get SOAKED, which can be fun on a hot summer day!

Stay at a Universal Orlando Resort

There is nothing better than staying at one of the Universal Orlando Resorts like Loews Royal Pacific Resort, Loews Sapphire Falls Resort, and Loews Portofino Bay Hotel. They all have amazing pools and great on-site restaurants. Plus, they are all close to the parks.

Another economical option is Cabana Bay Beach Resort. This family-friendly hotel offers a lazy river, Galaxy Bowl, arcade, and plenty of food options. The cheapest hotel at Universal, Endless Summer Surfside, is surprisingly affordable and a great way to stay on-property and on-budget!

Take Pictures with the Characters at Universal Orlando

Take photos with characters like Spongebob, the Simpsons, Scooby and the Gang, King Julian, and so many more!

best place to stay at Universal Orlando

Grab a Few Sweets from the San Francisco Candy Factory

This candy shop is the perfect place to grab a few sweets to keep you going during your visit to Universal Orlando.

The San Francisco Candy Factory has everything from gourmet cookies and fudge to caramel-covered apples.

Enjoy a Great Meal Inside Universal Orlando

You don’t need to eat grab-and-go meals when you visit Universal Orlando. One of the best places to eat a great meal is the Leaky Cauldron in Diagon Alley. You’ll find traditional British fare for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Three Broomsticks and Mythos in Islands of Adventure are other must-try options.

Head to Universal’s Volcano Bay

Visiting Universal’s water park is a great way to cool down during a hot Florida day.

There are two lazy rivers (one is not-so-lazy), lots of slides, a wave pool, and even a beach to relax. Check out our 15 Amazing Volcano Bay Tips and Volcano Bay Hacks to learn more.

Volcano Bay tips

Visit Epic Universe

Epic Universe will be home to Super Mario World, the Ministry of Magic, and more! It opens in May 2025 and tickets are available now. Talk to your Universal travel agent (me!) to learn more.