Theme park resort with Wizarding World of Harry Potter

About Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Orlando Resort has evolved from a single movie-themed park into a multi-park destination that rivals Disney in thrill rides and immersive experiences. Universal Studios Florida features rides based on Transformers, Revenge of the Mummy, and the Simpsons, while Islands of Adventure is home to the revolutionary Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and the Jurassic World VelociCoaster, consistently ranked among the world's best roller coasters.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter spans both parks, with Hogsmeade in Islands of Adventure and Diagon Alley in Universal Studios connected by the Hogwarts Express train (park-to-park ticket required). The attention to detail — from Ollivanders wand shop to the fire-breathing dragon atop Gringotts Bank — has set new standards for themed entertainment. The newest park, Universal's Epic Universe, dramatically expands the resort's offerings.

Universal CityWalk, the resort's free-admission entertainment district between the parks, features restaurants (Toothsome Chocolate Emporium, Bigfire, Cowfish), a multiplex cinema, live music venues, the Blue Man Group, and themed bars. The resort's hotels — including the upscale Loews Portofino Bay and the budget-friendly Cabana Bay Beach Resort — offer perks including Early Park Admission and, for premium hotels, unlimited Universal Express Pass.

Nearby Landmarks

Wizarding World of Harry Potter Universal CityWalk Volcano Bay I-Drive corridor

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost $30-45
Time 15-25 minutes

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Rideshare (Grab/Uber)

Cost $20-35
Time 15-25 minutes

Level 2 Ground Transportation

Step-by-Step Directions

Take LYNX Route 42 bus from airport to International Drive, walk or transfer to Universal

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi $30-45 15-25 minutes Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Rideshare $20-35 15-25 minutes Budget-conscious, app users

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

Uber/Lyft operate continuously from Universal CityWalk's dedicated pickup zone. Universal resort hotel guests can walk or take water taxis and buses between hotels and the parks until late evening. CityWalk restaurants and bars stay open until midnight-2:00 AM, making it a popular nightlife destination. Ride-shares to MCO cost $18-30. Late-night rides during park closing surges may have short wait times.

Luggage Tips

Universal's theme parks have mandatory free lockers at all major rides (required for loose articles on roller coasters). Paid all-day lockers are available at the park entrances. Universal resort hotel guests can check bags with Bell Services. CityWalk has no luggage storage. If visiting from the airport before hotel check-in, store bags at your hotel first — the rides are not luggage-friendly.

Accessibility

Universal Orlando is fully ADA-compliant with wheelchair accessible pathways, restaurants, and shows throughout both parks and CityWalk. Wheelchair and ECV rentals are at park entrances. Some thrill rides have transfer requirements — the Universal Orlando Rider's Guide for Rider Safety & Accessibility details each ride. The Attraction Assistance Pass is available for guests with non-apparent disabilities. Resort hotels and water taxis are accessible.