Description

Want to know what is coming soon at Universal Orlando? How about some Universal Orlando inside tips on visiting the park, saving money and getting the most out of your stay? Tamara and Kim share tips from their recent visits and interview Brittany Baron from Universal Orlando to get all the inside scoop.

ON THE PODCAST

ABOUT BRITTANY BARON

 

TIPS FOR VISITING UNIVERSAL ORLANDO

• Stay on property to get into the parks and hour earlier than general admission (especially if you are a Harry Potter fan)
• Get to the gate early as they often open the turnstiles before it would open because the opening time is usually the time they start the rides. This gives you time to get back to your favorite rides
• Go to Ollivander's wand shop early to not have a line and have a better chance of being selected to participate
• The Express Pass is a must-do for thrill-seekers, especially if you can get the unlimited Express Pass so you can ride attractions multiple times
• Child swap is available for parents of small children
• Bring a small day bag (not a large backpack) that will fit into the ride lockers
• The Harry Potter rides have a lot of storytelling that happens just in line so if you have a pocket that buttons, you may want to bring a phone or small camera to capture those moments, but even if you don't, just take your time to enjoy those aspects of the ride
• The Minions ride is very popular so even the Express Pass lane is very long but if you want, you can go in the "no motion" line and that is generally very short. It is the same ride experience except the ride vehicle doesn't move.
• Best times to visit:
  • Universal Orlando's Mardi Gras (January-February) with parades and great performances
  • Halloween Horror Nights -- for those 13+ there are scare zones, haunted houses and special after dark events
  • It is busiest when kids are out of school but it can get busy during special events also
• You can purchase Express Passes in advance or on-site (but the price will go up based on availability)

WHAT'S NEW AT UNIVERSAL ORLANDO

HOTELS AT UNIVERSAL ORLANDO

• Loews Portofino Bay Hotel -- modeled after an Italian village
• Loews Royal Pacific Resort -- themed after the South Pacific
• Hard Rock Hotel -- looks like Hotel California from the Eagles album cover
• Cabana Bay Beach Resort -- beach retro hotel
• You get unlimited Express Pass access when you stay at Loews Portofino Bay, Loews and the Hard Rock Cafe
• All hotels have early access to the theme parks, dining on property and free transportation to the parks
• In 2016, they are opening the Loews Sapphire Falls Resort will be themed after the Caribbean with waterfalls and the largest pool on-site.

FAVORITE RESTAURANTS IN UNIVERSAL ORLANDO

• Leaky Cauldron and Three Broomsticks (in Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade) -- Brittany likes the Great Feast at the Three Broomsticks
• Vivo Italian Kitchen -- fresh made pasta daily and homemade mozzarella
• Cowfish -- burgers and sushi
• NBS Sports Brew & Grill
• Hot dog Hall of Fame -- hot dogs from ballparks across the country
• Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen opening in 2016

FAVORITE PARK GEAR

APP OF THE WEEK

MENTIONED ON THE PODCAST