5 key tips for doing both Universal Orlando Resort parks in one day

Universal Orlando Resort is a massive resort with two theme parks that feature some of our favorite franchises. But can both parks be done in one day?

With new attractions like Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and old favorites like Men in Black: Alien Attack there really is something for everyone at Universal Orlando Resort. With two theme parks that have a distinct identity it can be hard to fit it all into one day, but we’ve got some tips to show you how to do just that.

If you’re planning a trip to Universal Orlando you’re going to want to follow these tips and tricks from a seasoned theme park pro to get the most out of your day, and be able to explore both parks. From a quick touring plan, to how to have the least amount of wait for high-priority attractions, we’ve got you covered.

Arrive early

No matter what day you choose to explore Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure you’re going to want to arrive early. If you’re staying at a Universal Orlando Resort hotel, you get an extra hour at one of the parks each day, so be sure to check on that the night before so you know when to wake up.

Most of the time, the parks open to non-resort guests at 9:00 am. You’re going to want to be at the front gate of the park by 8:30 am. This is going to be the best way to guarantee that you are among the first to enter the parks and get to any high-priority attractions first. We recommend doing The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at either park first while people are still getting into the park for the day.

Stay late

Just like getting to the parks early is a great way to maximize time to be able to do both parks in one day, staying late has the same benefit! In fact, staying late and doing attractions during the nighttime Cinematic Celebration show is a great way to miss some of the crowds on the more popular attractions.

Universal Studios Florida tends to clear out starting after dinner time, except inside The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. In particular, Diagon Alley will likely remain busy until the park closes. Islands of Adventure will be busy for the majority of the day, so if possible you should start here, move to Universal Studios Florida, then head back into Islands of Adventure after dinner time.

Purchase Universal Express

To save as much time as possible, you’re going to want to consider buying the Universal Express pass. This front of the line pass allows you to bypass the regular stand-by line and have a much shorter wait. You can purchase these with your ticket package, or you can buy them day-of. The majority of Universal Orlando attractions allow Express usage, so there’s a huge timesaver there.

Eat at quick-service restaurants

After going for most of the morning or afternoon, you’re going to want to stop to eat. There are plenty of options at both Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure! We highly recommend eating at a quick-service restaurant. Not only will this save a bit of precious time, especially around dinner time, but most of the time quick-service is cheaper than getting table service.

We love dining at The Three Broomsticks and The Leaky Cauldron inside The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. You really can never go wrong with fish and chips, but if that’s not your thing you might want to check out the new Today Café. This new restaurant at Universal Studios Florida is serving up delicious pastries, salads, and sandwiches all day long for people to enjoy then get back to riding and touring the parks.

ORLANDO, FL – JUNE 18: In this handout photo provided by Universal Orlando Resort and taken June 13, 2014, today June 18, Universal Orlando announced that The Wizarding World of Harry Potters Diagon Alley will officially open on July 8, allowing guests to experience even more of Harry Potters adventures in an all-new, magnificently-themed environment. Located in the Universal Studios Florida theme park, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley will feature shops, dining experiences and the next generation thrill ride, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts. The new immersive area will double the size of the sweeping land already found at Universals Islands of Adventure, expanding the spectacularly themed environment across both Universal theme parks and guests can journey between both lands aboard the Hogwarts Express. For additional information, visit www.UniversalOrlando.com/WizardingWorld. (Photo by Sheri Lowen/Universal Orlando Resort via Getty Images)

Go during “off season” if possible

The best way to ensure that you can get both parks in one day completed is to go during what’s known as “off season.” This is the time when the parks are typically slower, so think any time during the school year, or just after major holidays like Christmas or New Year’s. This is the time when the parks have a shorter operating day, but they also have smaller crowds that you’re going to have to deal with.

Are you planning a trip to Universal Orlando Resort soon? Let us know what you’re looking most forward to in the comments!