Going to a special event?

Mardi Gras parade float
Image: zannaland, Flickr (license)

Universal’s special events are outstanding. Free concerts feature top acts during the Summer Concert Series and Mardi Gras. The Mardi Gras Parade is a must-see at least once for the flashy floats and abundance of beads. During the holiday season, you’ll want to see the Macy’s Holiday Parade and catch a showing of How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Events like these can eat up an entire afternoon and evening, between staking out your spot and enjoying the entertainment. Add an extra day if they’re on the agenda.

If you’re in town for Halloween Horror Nights, you’ll want at least one night dedicated to the event. Don’t burn yourself out with a long theme park day beforehand, and don’t plan on being up early the next day. If you’re a big horror fan, you may want multiple nights for the event, as well as a day or two to enjoy the parks by sunlight.

What about nightlife?

Do you love the nightlife? Universal’s CityWalk is great for an evening of dancing and drinks. Get tickets to Blue Man Group, play a round of mini golf, have a karaoke night, and enjoy nearly any cuisine you could want. If you want to take time exploring CityWalk, partying late into the night, and sleeping in a bit the next day, go ahead and add a day to your stay.

Where are you staying?

Lowes Portofino Bay Hotel
Image: fpra, Flickr (license)

If you’re staying on property at one of Universal’s hotel properties, you’ll enjoy a wealth of perks. One of the best is a complementary Universal Express Unlimited pass. Included for guests at the Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel, and Loews Royal Pacific Resort, this pass lets you hop in the Express Pass line for all the attractions. Since you won’t have to wait, you can easily enjoy all the top attractions with a single day in each park. A third day will give you time to fill in any blanks easily.

Though you won’t get an Express Pass at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort or Cabana Bay Beach Resort, you will still enjoy other benefits. All Universal Resort hotel guests get complimentary transportation to the parks, and early admission to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter which can shave some time out of your day.

Take the time to really consider what you want out of your stay to make sure you have the right amount of time at the Universal Orlando Resort.