We’ve received many inquiries regarding trip planning for Universal Orlando Resort. While we have a few posts identifying resorts and some accommodations, we haven’t really gone into detail about where to start. Here, we’re going to break that down and provide as much direction as possible. Along with our advice, Planned by Locals is the best in planning your Universal Orlando vacation!
Where do I start?
Planning any trip, anywhere can be a daunting task. Orlando is no exception. In fact, Orlando can be one of the most complicated trips to plan because there’s so much to do for all ages. Activities range from beach trips, to theme parks and off-site attractions like the Icon-360 located on International Dr (I-Drive).
We recommend answering a few simple questions first.
When do I want to travel?
This is HUGE determining factor due to crowd sizes. Obviously, the more crowded (popular of a travel time), the more expensive it will be. Additionally, weather is another major consideration. We NEVER recommend bringing infants during the hot summer months. Heat related illnesses can really damper a trip. Between the months of October and April, temps are often below the mid 80s but can vary greatly. At the time of this writing, it is currently 51 degrees outside in Orlando. Don’t forget proper attire!
What’s my budget for travel?
This is a close second. Like most destinations, you can spend as much money as you’d like in Orlando. Universal has rooms ranging from just $99 / night (Pricing does vary) to well into the thousands for suites and larger accommodations at their nicer resorts. Park tickets always seem to be the sneaky expense. For your standard ticket (1 park for 1 day), pricing starts around $120 per person. If you want to visit both parks (Park-to-park), expect that cost to be closer to $180 per person. As you can see, tickets add up quickly. However, if more days are purchased, the cost per day goes down.
Don’t forget to include nominal expenses like transportation costs (airport shuttle, ride sharing or renting a car), food expense (Universal dining plan only applies if you stay at a Universal Orlando Resort) and costs to get to your destination (Fly, drive or train).
What is there to do in Orlando?
What isn’t there to do? Most families travel strictly to visit theme parks. With the Walt Disney World Resort being the obvious number 1 attraction, Universal has made recent acquisitions and updates to their resort area to draw tourists. Expect there to be much more to do at Universal in the coming years as expansions continue.
If you just simply need a break from the crowds and fast-paced Orlando vacation, Orlando is conveniently located less than 90 minutes from either coast making a quiet beach day a reality. Cocoa and Daytona Beaches, along the east coast, boast some stunning sunrises over the Atlantic Ocean. On the west coast, Clearwater and St Pete beaches are consistently named some of the best beaches in the country.
Who is traveling?
This question is often overlooked until your trip is booked and it’s time to plan the days. Mom, Dad, Grandma and Grandpa typically have more options than little Timmy and Susie. Keep that in mind as ages (More so heights) come into play when trying to plan a day. Certain attractions have restrictions so a child under 44″ will likely not be able to do much. This can bog down the days of adults so get some advice from Planned by Locals before determining a trip itinerary.
All in all, planning a trip to Orlando can be overwhelming simply because there’s so much to do. Don’t stress. Answer a few basic questions and reach out to our friends at Planned by Locals and let them guide you through the process of creating the best trip EVER!
Don’t forget our Packing Guide!
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