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Universal Orlando Resort is a premier entertainment destination located in Orlando, Florida. It consists of multiple theme parks, hotels, and a vibrant entertainment complex known as CityWalk. At Universal Orlando Resort, guests can experience the magic of Universal Studios Florida, the thrilling rides at Islands of Adventure, and the enchanting world of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Credit: Universal Studios Orlando Resort
One of the highlights of Universal Orlando Resort is Universal Studios Florida, where guests can explore the world of movies and television. From exciting attractions like Transformers: The Ride 3D and The Simpsons Ride to immersive experiences like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley, this park offers something for everyone. Guests can also enjoy live shows, meet their favorite characters, and indulge in delicious dining options.
At Islands of Adventure, visitors can embark on epic adventures in themed lands like Marvel Superhero Island, Jurassic Park, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter-Hogsmeade. Thrilling rides such as the Incredible Hulk Coaster and the new Jurassic World VelociCoaster provide adrenaline-pumping experiences. The park also features stunningly designed areas, interactive attractions, and captivating shows.
Related: Confirmed: Universal Closes Iconic Orlando Location
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a must-visit destination within Universal Orlando Resort. From visiting Hogwarts Castle to sipping Butterbeer at Three Broomsticks, fans can immerse themselves in the magical world created by J.K. Rowling. Diagon Alley at Universal Studios and Hogsmeade at Islands of Adventure are connected by the iconic Hogwarts Express, offering an enchanting journey between the two parks.
After a day of adventure, guests can unwind and relax at one of the resort’s exquisite hotels. Choices include the luxurious Loews Royal Pacific Resort, the charming Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, and the rock-and-roll-inspired Hard Rock Hotel. These hotels not only provide comfortable accommodations but also offer exclusive benefits such as early park admission and complimentary transportation.
Credit: Universal Studios
CityWalk, the entertainment complex at Universal Orlando Resort, is a bustling hub of dining, shopping, and nightlife. Guests can enjoy a wide variety of cuisines, catch the latest blockbuster at AMC Universal Cineplex, or groove to live music at the Hard Rock Cafe. CityWalk truly comes alive after dark with its energetic clubs and bars, providing endless entertainment for visitors of all ages.
Universal Studios Orlando is a Busy Place
Much like its neighbor, Universal Studios Orlando is a popular destination known for its thrilling rides, immersive attractions, and entertaining shows. As a result, it can get quite busy, especially during peak seasons and weekends. However, there are several strategies you can employ to make the most of your visit and navigate the crowds efficiently.
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Firstly, consider visiting Universal Studios Orlando during weekdays and outside of major holidays to avoid the largest influx of visitors. This can significantly reduce wait times and make your experience more enjoyable.
Additionally, it is highly recommended to arrive early in the morning to take advantage of smaller crowds. By entering the park as soon as it opens, you can often experience popular attractions with shorter wait times. It’s also a good idea to prioritize the rides and attractions you want to experience the most and head directly to them upon arrival.
Credit: Universal Studios Orlando
Another great way to enhance your experience and bypass long queues is by utilizing the Universal Express Pass. This valuable add-on allows you to skip the regular lines on participating attractions, saving you time and maximizing your enjoyment. However, please note that the Universal Express Pass is a separate purchase and offers limited availability.
If you prefer a more exclusive and personalized experience, you may consider booking a VIP tour. With a VIP tour, you’ll have a knowledgeable guide who will navigate you through the park, providing priority access to attractions and insider tips. This premium option ensures a more intimate and seamless experience, allowing you to make the most of your time in Universal Studios Orlando.
Hot Temps and High Crowds Equal Bad Behavior
Also, like Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando is no stranger to bad guest behavior. Throughout their hotels, magical worlds of wizards and Death Eaater, or even during their spectacular fall offering, Halloween Horror Nights, Universal has its fair share of fights and unruly guests.
Related: Video: Guest Brutally Attacks Scare Actor at Halloween Horror Nights
Recently, an interesting thread via Reddit highlighted some of the worst experiences guests have witnessed while at the Orlando-based parks, and some of the stories held within are truly mind-boggling.
User @u/ProfessionalSir8637 highlighted a recent experience in which they witnessed a couple fight outside of the Incredible Hulk Coast at Universal’s Islands of Adventure. As the situation escalated, the user noted that one guest, a woman, apparently out of frustration, just began to scream.
What’s the worst thing you’ve ever witnessed at Universal Orlando?
byu/ProfessionalSir8637 inUniversalOrlando
This comment was the catalyst for 300 more to include their individual experiences with weird happenings and wild behavior from fellow guests while visiting places like Universal’s Volcano Bay waterpark, Loews Royal Pacific Resort, and even Hogwarts.
One user, @Gwanzi, noted seeing a woman physically assaulting who they assumed to be her spouse while walking through one of the Haunted Houses during Halloween Horror Nights. Surely, this is unwarranted behavior, illegal even. Maybe the reaction to assaulting a loved one was out of fear?
Others presented funnier answers to the prompt, noting that finding your car after a long day at Universal or trying spoiled milk has ruined their Universal vacations.
What Gives With the Bad Guest Behavior at Theme Parks Like Universal Orlando?
The question of why there seems to be an uptick in poor behavior at both Universal Orlando and Walt Disney World isn’t as difficult as it seems to answer.
Firstly, both have adopted a culture of alcohol. If you’re visiting Univeral Studios, Animal Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, or Islands of Adventure, you’re sure to see the booze flowing. Although most guests choose to drink responsibly, there are those who have one too many.
Credit: Photo by Josh Rich on Unsplash
Secondly, large crowds are tough to deal with. Again, both Walt Disney World and Universal are extremely popular, well-known vacation destinations. Large crowds that gather create long wait times and difficult situations for guests who aren’t always equipped to deal with the stress involved.
Lastly, it’s exhausting. The mid-day meltdown is a real thing, and for good reason. Walking around in the hot Florida sun all day takes a lot out of you. Most of us feel like we need a vacation after we leave or Orlando vacations because, well, they’re a lot!
So, what terrible guest behavior have you experienced while visiting Walt Disney World or Universal Studios?
