Soar with Dragons at Universal Orlando - Epic Universe
Rides, shows and dining coming to Isle of Berk at Universal Orlando
Universal Orlando shared more details on Epic Universe - How to Train Your Dragon - Isle of Berk. Something that stood out right away is that this land is rich in rides, and not virtual or motion simulator rides - actual rides! Dining options look amazing with a grand hall and character meet and greets.
On Berk, a rough and rocky island towering over turbulent waters, resides a vibrant village where Vikings and dragons coexist peacefully.
Here, your family can embark on a thrilling coaster ride to glide through the skies resembling dragons, engage in water battles at sea, and enjoy the lively spectacles presented by the fire-breathing inhabitants of the village.
Isle of Berk - Universal Orlando - Epic Universe
Map of Epic Universe at Universal Orlando
Isle of Berk - Universal Orlando - Epic Universe
Will Hiccup’s Wing Gliders be a Launch Coaster?
Universal says Hiccup’s Wing Gliders is Hiccup’s latest flying contraption that “launches you into the air.” Sounds like a launch coaster to me!
Isle of Berk - Universal Orlando - Epic Universe
This coaster will have you swooping and soaring along where you’ll encounter Hiccup and Toothless on your adventure.
Isle of Berk - Universal Orlando - Epic Universe
Dragon Racers Rally
At Dragon Racer’s Rally, Berk’s new Vikings can practice aerobatic maneuvers and high-speed barrel rolls on a massive swing ride. Universal says this swing will go upside down and that riders will be able to make it as wild or mild as they wish.
This ride looks similar to the swing rides built by S&S, a similar perhaps to Dollywood’s Barnestomer ride.
Isle of Berk - Universal Orlando - Epic Universe
Fyer Drill
Take to the sea for a new water ride where you’ll aim water cannons at targets and other objects (maybe even each other). Think Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin or Men in Black but with water!
Isle of Berk - Universal Orlando - Epic Universe
Viking Training Camp
Junious Vikings will have a colorful and interactive playscape. There will be multiple towers to climb, and agility course, Viking drums (kids love drums in theme parks for some reason). This area will have slides and activities just for the younger Vikings.
Shows Coming to Isle of Berk at Epic Universe
Isle of Berk - Universal Orlando - Epic Universe
The Untrainable Dragon
Universal says this will be a Broadway-style production with spectacular music and a heartwarming story.
The Untrainable Dragon will feature advanced technology and set pieces.
When a new dragon shows up on the Isle of Berk, the Vikings think they may have finally met their match.
Hiccup and Toothless, with help from Gobber and Astrid, work together to solve the mystery of The Untrainable Dragon.
Experience the wonder of dragons onstage and soaring overhead in their spectacular musical.
Dining at Isle of Berk
Isle of Berk - Universal Orlando - Epic Universe
Mead Hall
In this restaurant, you’ll be able to each and drink like a Viking! Mead Hall is the main table-service restaurant on the Isle of Berk. Looks massive!
The menu will include meat, fish, sandwiches and desserts.
Beverages will include assorted meads, ciders, and ales.
Featured Charcaters at Isle of Berk
Isle of Berk - Universal Orlando - Epic Universe
Meet Berk’s Best-Known Dragon and Viking - You’ll have a chance to meet and greet Hiccup and Toothless as they honor the bond between dragon and Viking.
Isle of Berk Street Characters - Stroll around Berk and meet some of your favorite Vikings and dragons including Astrid, Stormfly, Ruffnut, and Tuffnut; and the Night Lights by baby dragons. You may also catch Gobber at work in his forge.
Universal hints that you might also catch a glimpse of Monstrous Nighttime, or Gonckle dragons flying high above the village.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Best Easter Brunches at Universal Orlando 2024
The best places to have Easter dinner at Universal Orlando. The award-winning culinary teams at the Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Royal Pacific Resort and Loews Sapphire Falls Resort are preparing a lineup of Easter Sunday brunches on March 31st, 2024.
You can enjoy all-you-can-eat buffets and family-friendly entertainment that includes live music, face painters, and more! Entertainment varies by location.
Easter brunch at Universal Orlando Resort
Hard Rock Hotel
The Kitchen restaurant
Easter brunch will be from 7:00a to 4:00p and will include made-to-order omelets and eggs benedict. If you’re more into lunch mode, enjoy the carving station featuring herb-crusted prime rib, baked ham, and more! station, pancakes, waffles, and more.
And this is the Hard Rock Hotel so of course there will be live music too.
Adults ages 10+ $80, children ages 3 – 9 $35
Reservations are highly recommended. See the full menu here.
Loews Royal Pacific Resort
Islands Dining Room
Islands Dining Room has an Easter buffet planned from 11:00a to 4:00p. This all-you-care-to-enjoy buffet will include themed food stations including our sushi station and create-your-own stir-fry.
There will also be a carving station with five-spiced roasted duck accompanied by our blackberry chutney, and bone-in roasted pork loin with char sui BBQ sauce, among other selections.
The dessert station will feature 16 different options, including a pineapple upside-down cake.
During brunch, liver entertainment will feature a ukulele player and a hula dancer.
Adults ages 10+ $80, children ages 3 – 9 $35
Reservations are highly recommended. See more about the Islands Dining Room here.
Loews Sapphire Falls Resort
Amatista Cookhouse
Easter Brunch runs from 11:00a to 4:00p and includes Caribbean-inspired cuisine prepared right in front of you in our exhibition kitchen. Enjoy fresh greens from the salad station, charcuterie from the islands, an iced raw bar with ceviche selections and more.
It wouldn’t be an island-style Easter brunch without live music including a steelpan percussionist. The kids can have their faces painted for this special Easter dining event.
Adults: $80, children (ages 3 – 9): $35.
See the menu and make reservations here.
Easter brunch will be taking place through out many of the Universal Orlando hotels. These are just some of the highest-rated options. For a complete list of Easter dinner possibilities at Universal, click here.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Universal Orlando Shares Details on Dreamworks Land - Opening Summer 2024
Rides and experiences coming to Universal Studios Florida this summer!
Universal Orlando Resort is set to introduce DreamWorks Land, a lively new themed section influenced by the popular characters from DreamWorks Animation such as Shrek, Trolls, and Kung Fu Panda.
Situated within the Universal Studios Florida theme park, this extensive new land promises a wealth of entertainment for visitors of all ages, including a family-friendly roller coaster, various interactive play zones, live shows, character appearances, and other engaging experiences.
Shrek’s Swamp for Little Ogres: This Shrek-themed play area will feature four fun slides, wet play areas, and a playground where the kiddos can climb, bounce, and splash around as well as venture into Shrek’s outhouse.
Shrek’s Swamp Meet: You can visit Shrek’s Swamp Meet to interact with Shrek, Princess Fiona and Donkey, who will joke around and converse with guests, just outside of Shrek’s cottage.
Trolls Trollercoaster: Guests of all ages can take a ride on the iconic Caterbus escaping evil spiders as they speed along a bright orange and yellow track aboard this family-friendly rollercoaster.
Po’s Kung Fu Training Camp: Inspired by the hit Kung Fu Panda films, this all-new play area brings the Panda Village to life. Within both wet and dry play areas, you will have the opportunity to help the pandas wash and dry their laundry with enormous water cannons, dump buckets, giant fans and more.
Guests will also encounter fun elements throughout the experience, including an interactive gong, mischievous, giggling baby pandas, and oversized merry-go-round noodle bowls from Mr. Ping’s Noodle Shop.
Universal Orlando has not set an opening date for Dreamworks Land except that it will open sometime this summer.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Universal Orlando Ticket Offer - 2 Days FREE with 2-Day Ticket
For a limited time at Universal Orlando, get 2 Days Free with a 2-Park, 3-Day Ticket. In other words, you get a 5-Day Ticket for the price of 3. Ticket prices and availability vary by day. Valid for travel select dates Now – 2/29/24.
Get 2 Days Free with a 2-Park, 2-Day Ticket.
Restrictions apply. Valid for travel select dates 12/14/23 – 08/28/24. 2-Park and 3-Park versions are available that will include Volcano Bay Water Park.
Universal Orlando Resort - Ticket Offer
2-Park 2-Day Base + 2-Days Free Promo Ticket Dated – Entitles one (1) guest admission to EITHER Universal Studios Florida OR Universal Islands of Adventure per day. Ticket is valid for any four (4) calendar days during a seven (7) consecutive calendar day period which commences on and includes the date selected. The ticket will expire in full on the expiration date printed on ticket. Unused days will be forfeited.
2-Park 2-Day Park-to-Park + 2-Days Free Promo Ticket Dated – Entitles one (1) guest admission to BOTH Universal Studios Florida AND Universal Islands of Adventure on the same day. Ticket is valid for any four (4) calendar days during a seven (7) consecutive calendar day period which commences on and includes the date selected. The ticket will expire in full on the expiration date printed on ticket. Unused days will be forfeited.
3-Park 2-Day Base + 2-Days Free Promo Ticket Dated – Entitles one (1) guest admission to ONE (1) Universal Orlando Resort theme park per day: Universal Studios Florida OR Universal’s Islands of Adventure OR Universal’s Volcano Bay. Ticket is valid for any four (4) calendar days during a seven (7) consecutive calendar day period which commences on and includes the date selected. The ticket will expire in full on the expiration date printed on ticket. Unused days will be forfeited.
3-Park 2-Day Park-to-Park + 2-Days Free Promo Ticket Dated – Entitles one (1) guest admission to Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure, AND Universal Volcano Bay on the same day. Ticket is valid for any four (4) calendar days during a seven (7) consecutive calendar day period which commences on and includes the date selected. The ticket will expire in full on the expiration date printed on ticket. Unused days will be forfeited.
The above Admission Media is non-refundable, non-transferable, and must be used by the same person on all days. Standard entry includes biometric scan. Valid only during normal operating hours. Parks, attractions, or entertainment may: close due to refurbishing, capacity, weather or special events; change operating hours; and otherwise change or be discontinued without notice and without liability to the owners of Universal Orlando Resort (‘Universal’). Unless otherwise stated, the above Admission Media specifically excludes admission to separately ticketed events and venues at any of the Universal theme parks and/or CityWalk and excludes parking or discounts on food or merchandise. Some CityWalk venues require ages 21 or older for admission. Valid Photo ID required. Additional restrictions may apply and benefits are subject to change without notice.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Guests can Ride on Parade Floats at Universal Orlando Resort
Now you can reserve a spot on one of Universal Orlando’s spectacular Mardi Gras parade floats.
Mardi Gras Float Ride and Dine Experience
Now you can reserve a spot on one of Universal Orlando’s spectacular Mardi Gras parade floats. Also, enjoy a 3-course meal selecting from the full menu at one of four participating restaurants at Universal Orlando Resort. This is a unique chance to guarantee a spot in the parade!
Universal Orlando Mardi Gras Dining Package
Access to one (1) Mardi Gras parade float rider reservation on the same day as prix fixe meal. Guests will receive Mardi Gras Float Rider credentials at the restaurant after their meal. The credential will specify the parade check-in information, including location and time.
One (1) 3-course meal at a select full-service restaurant located at Universal Studios Florida or Universal CityWalk. 3-course meal includes one (1) appetizer, one (1) entrée, one (1) dessert, and one (1) non-alcoholic beverage per person from the full menu.
Prices, dates, times, experience details, and benefits are subject to availability, change, and/or cancellation without notice.
Mardi Gras Parade Float Riders must be 18+ or accompanied by their legal guardian age 18 or older. All riders must be at least 48” in height able to board the floats and must be able to stand for the duration of the parade.
Price does not include admission to the Universal Studios Florida theme park. Separate theme park admission is required and must be for the same date as the parade and 3-course meal.
Mardi Gras Dining Packages start at around $90 per person.
Mardi Gras Dining Package Dates
Feb. 4–Mar. 30; Apr.1–16
No Parade on Mar. 31
Dinner Information
Participating full-service restaurants:
Universal Studios Florida
Finnegan's Bar & Grill
Lombard's Seafood Grill
Universal CityWalk
The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar
NBC Sports Grill & Brew
Reservation times will vary:
3:00 pm Dining Reservation on days with a 6:15 pm Mardi Gras parade start time
4:30 pm Dining Reservation on days with 7:45 pm Mardi Gras parade start time
*Prices, dates, times, experience details, and benefits subject to availability, change and/or cancellation without notice. **Mardi Gras Parade Float Riders must be 18+ or accompanied by their legal guardian age 18 or older. All riders must be at least 48" in height and able to board the floats and must be able to stand for the duration of the parade. ^Price does not include admission to Universal Studios Florida theme park. Separate theme park admission required and for the same date as the parade and prix fixe meal. Gratuity not included.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Universal Orlando Using Facial Recognition to Enter Theme Parks
Universal Orlando Resort is using a new way for guests to enter its theme parks. If you have ever been to Universal Orlando at rope-drop, you know that getting into the parks was painfully slow.
Well, the facial recognition system isn’t much faster. On our visit, the system processed one person every 15 sections, on average, that’s about 4 people per minute.
Facial recognition at Universal Orlando Resort
With Photo Validation at Park Entry, you just scan your theme park ticket, look at the camera, and enter the park.
Photo recognition replaces the biometric finger scan at the turnstiles.
I don’t know about you, but the thought of placing my finger in the exact same spot as thousands of other people was unsettling, especially post-pandemic.
Photo Validation is optional and is not required for entry into the Universal Orlando Parks.
Guests will be able to opt-out directly at Park Entry if they desire.
If a Guest chooses to opt-out of Photo Validation, they are required to show a valid Photo ID upon entry to validate their entitlement.
Guests will not need to do anything separate like pre-enroll. The setup process is easy and done right at the turnstile when you enter the parks, starting today!
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Universal Orlando has provided these Frequently Asked Questions about how to enter the Universal Orlando Theme Parks using facial recognition technology.
What data does Universal Orlando collect?
Universal Orlando takes a photo the first time a Guest uses their entitlement. From that photo, the software builds a Photo Template. A Photo Template is a unique set of data points based on facial features. On subsequent entries to Universal Orlando Resort, the Photo Template created on entry will be compared to the stored templates to validate access and prevent fraud.
Will there be a separate entrance for Guests who opt out of Photo Validation?
No. Guests who opt out of Photo Validation will still be able to use the regular park entrance. Opting out simply tells our access control system to not prompt for Photo Validation when that Guest’s ticket is scanned. Guests who opt out of Photo Validation will be asked to present photo ID each time they use their entitlement.
Can a Guest opt back in to Photo Validation?
Yes, Guests who opt-out and want to opt back in can do so at the park entrance or Guest Services.
Does Photo Validation work in the dark?
Yes, the camera works in low-light and nighttime environments.
How long will the images be stored in your system?
Photo Templates will be stored for no longer than six months after the expiration of the associated ticket or other entitlement. This is consistent with our finger scan biometric process.
Is Photo Validation accessible to Guests in wheelchairs?
Yes. Photo Validation was created with all Guests in mind. Our cameras were built with a field of view to be able to validate Guests whether tall, short, seated in a wheelchair, and more!
Is there anything different Guests need to do before they get to the gate?
No, they simply approach the park entrance with their park ticket ready - just like they would today.
If I opt out after using Photo Validation for the first time, is my information deleted?
Once a guest opts out of Photo Validation, any images or Photo Templates created / stored are deleted.
If I opt out of Photo Validation, what happens?
If a Guest decides to opt out of Photo Validation, they will continue to enter the park using the same lanes as guests who do use Photo Validation. The only difference that a Guest who has opted out will experience is that they will be required to present a valid Photo ID to validate their ticket.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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2023 Universal Orlando Halloween Horror Night Tickets and Packages
Halloween Horror Nights runs select nights from Friday, September 1 through Saturday, November 4 at Universal Orlando Resort. Contact me today to start planning and get insider tips and expert planning advice.
Universal Orlando Resort Tickets and Packages
Halloween Horror Nights runs select nights from Friday, September 1 through Saturday, November 4 at Universal Orlando Resort. Contact me today to start planning and get insider tips and expert planning advice.
You can experience Halloween Horror Nights with several ticket options and hotel packages.
Stranger Things at Halloween Horror Nights: Universal Orlando Resort
All event tickets are now on sale, including the popular tours.
Halloween Horror Nights Tickets and Add-Ons
Halloween Horror Nights Single-Night Ticket - Starting From $85.19
(Pricing varies by date.)
Halloween Horror Nights Express Pass - Starting From $117.14
(Separate event admission is required. This is an add-on feature)
Halloween Horror Nights Frequent Fear Pass - Starting From $244.94
Halloween Horror Nights R.I.P. Tour - Starting From $319.50
(Separate event admission is required. This is an add-on feature)
Halloween Horror Nights 3-Haunted House Behind-the-Screams: Unmasking the Horror Tour - Starting From $127.80
(Separate event admission is required. This is an add-on feature)
Halloween Horror Nights 6-Haunted House Behind-the-Screams: Unmasking the Horror Tour - Starting From $181.04
(Separate event admission is required. This is an add-on feature)
Halloween Horror Nights Rush of Fear Pass - Starting From $191.69
All prices are (USD) tax inclusive.
Halloween Horror Night Packages
Stay, scream, and save up to $200 (savings based on a seven-night stay) with a special vacation package that includes:
1-night Halloween Horror Night admission
5 days of admission to all three Universal Orlando theme parks
Universal Orlando onsite hotel accommodations
Insider Tip: Stay at a Universal Premier Hotel and receive FREE Express Pass Unlimited in the theme parks during normal operating hours. This means you can skip the lines at most attractions. (excludes Halloween Horror Night events).
All Universal Orlando hotel guests receive exclusive benefits such as Early Park Admission to the theme parks during the day and special access to a dedicated Halloween Horror Nights entry gate at night. To learn more about Halloween Horror Nights and to book contact me today!
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Universal Orlando Debuts Death Eaters in Diagon Alley in Wizarding World
An ominous presence returns to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort this fall as Death Eaters appear for the first time ever in Diagon Alley on select dates from Sept. 1 through Nov. 4.
Death Eaters at Wizarding World of Harry Potter | Universal Orlando
An ominous presence returns to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort this fall as Death Eaters appear for the first time ever in Diagon Alley on select dates from Sept. 1 through Nov. 4.
Diagon Alley is located in Universal Studios theme park.
A sinister energy will fill the air in Diagon Alley as guests encounter the villainous Death Eaters, devoted followers of Lord Voldemort who do not shy away from the practice of the Dark Arts.
This interactive live entertainment experience puts guests face-to-face with these fanatic witches and wizards as they roam through London, lurking their way through the cobbled streets of Knockturn Alley and challenging guests to join the Dark Lord.
While visiting Diagon Alley, guests also can shop for a variety of Death Eater-themed merchandise to embrace their sinister side.
From dining at the Leaky Cauldron to taking home a unique wand from Ollivanders or even experiencing the multi-dimensional thrill ride, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, there are many ways for guests to immerse themselves in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter-Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida.
For more information, see my Universal Wizarding World of Harry Potter page.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Insider’s Guide to the Universal Orlando Mobile App
Using the Universal Orlando Mobile App
The official Universal Orlando Resort mobile app includes a variety of tools and resources to help you before and during your Universal Orlando vacation.
The Universal Orlando app allows you to
Link park tickets
Place mobile food and drink orders
Join a virtual line
Create your own "must-do" list
Explore park maps and so much more
Insider Tip: The map has helpful features like Express Pass-enabled locations, height restrictions, show times, dietary options, and more.
Download the official mobile app (it’s free)
Once you download the app, create or sign in to your Universal account.
Set up your wallet
The wallet feature is known as Universal Pay. Using Universal Pay makes your day easier.
It’s most helpful when ordering food because Universal Orlando encourages mobile orders at quick-service restaurants.
You can place an order and pay for it right in the app (more on this below).
Using Universal Pay at Volcano Bay Water Park
Going to Volcano Bay water park? (It’s only the best water park in Orlando!) Leave your phone in your locker or in your beach bag and your bag of rice at home, you’re phone won’t be getting wet here.
You can purchase food, beverages, and merchandise using Tapu Tapu, a waterproof wristband that is provided upon entry to the park.
Use Tapu Tapu anywhere Universal Pay is accepted in the park. No need to carry your phone, cash, or cards in your bathing suit.
You can also set up and manage sub-accounts for others in your party and set spending limits so they can make purchases with Tapu Tapu as well. See my Tips for Volcano Bay here.
Tapu Tapu at Universal Orlando’s Volcano Bay Water Park
Use the App to Plan Your Trip
Scroll through the rides and shows that are available at each park.
Tap the heart on your favorite attractions to add them to your favorites list, making it easy to reference wait times and attraction details once you are in the park.
Doing this helps ensure that you won’t miss any must-dos while touring the parks.
Linking tickets to the Universal Orlando mobile app
If you booked a vacation package with me, you’ll pick up your tickets when you arrive at your Universal Orlando hotel.
To add a ticket to the mobile app, select “Scan Tickets & Add Ons” to scan the back of your ticket or enter your ticket number (located under the barcode).
If you need help, just ask a Team Member at the ticket desk, located inside the hotel lobby.
Placing Mobile Food and Drink Orders
Order ahead from select restaurants when you’re in the theme parks and at CityWalk.
How to place your mobile order
Open the side navigation and select "Mobile Food & Drink Ordering"
Select an available restaurant
Browse menu options and make customizations
Tap “Prepare My Order”
Wait at the pickup window to receive your order
Join Virtual Lines at Universal Orlando
During busier times of the year, some of Universal Orlando’s most popular attractions allow you to join a Virtual Line. Rather than stand in a physical line, you can reserve a time to ride and go off to enjoy other areas of the park. This feature is free.
Here’s how Virtual Lines work:
Pick your ride in the app
Join the queue for a time window that works for you
Show the Team Member your phone to scan and enter the attraction
The app will display the attractions that are offering a Virtual Line, if any. You can almost always find Race Through New York starring Jimmy Fallon as an option.
Depending on how crowded the park is, Universal may also offer Virtual Line on the following:
Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
Fast & Furious: Supercharged
Revenge of the Mummy
Universal Orlando adjusts Virtual Line throughout the day. The day may start off without any Virtual Lines being offered but as the park gets busier, some Virtual Lines may begin to come online. Universal may also remove the option during the day if it’s no longer needed - but they will still honor existing reservations.
Insider Tip! I recommend you check for Virtual Lines starting 20 minutes prior to the park opening time.
Insider Tip! Use the “Wait Time Alert” feature on the app to get notified if the wait for a favorite attraction is under a certain time. For example, you can set up an alert to be notified if the wait for Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure drops below 60 minutes.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 13 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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Guide to Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando
Photo tour of Sapphire Falls Resort, a Preferred category hotel at Universal Orlando Resort.
Universal’s Sapphire Falls Resort is a moderately priced resort located just outside Universal City Walk and Islands of Adventure Theme Park. It is currently the only moderately priced hotel at Universal Orlando Resort.
Sapphire Falls has a Caribbean theme with colorful lobby, tropical themed pool, and well appointed rooms. You’ll find similar amenities in the Premier hotels at Universal Orlando but an important distinction is that Sapphire Falls does not come with free Universal Express Pass Unlimited.
Video: Universal Orlando Resort | Sapphire Falls Highlights
Arrival and Lobby Areas
Room Categories
Sapphire Falls has 1000 guest rooms and 83 suites. Rooms have a simple, relaxed design with imaginative touches.
Suites range in size from 529 square feet to a sprawling 1,353 square feet.
Choose from:
Standard VIew
Lagoon View
Pool View
Kids Suites
King Suite
Presidential Suites
Sapphire falls Room Rates
NIght room rates vary by season, day of the week and the current booking status of the hotel.
On low end, late summer and fall, the rate for a standard room is about $283. During peak season such as spring break, Easter,a nd Christmas, the nightly rate for a standard room is about $438 per night.
Lagoon View and Pool Views are approximately $20 more per night than a Standard View room.
Kids Suites start around $500 per night at Sapphire Falls.
Room Amenities
Free Wi-Fi
300-thread-count, 100% cotton bed linens
Smart room technology for automated heating and air conditioning
Flat-screen TV with HD channels
On Demand movies and video check-out (fees apply)
Mini Refrigerator
Cuisinart single coffee pod brewer
Spacious work desk with ergonomic chair
In-room safe
Telephone with voicemail
Iron and ironing board
100% combed and ring-spun cotton terry towels and bath sheets
Julien Farel Professional Hair Dryer
Magnifying makeup mirror
In-room dining service
Wake-up calls
Dry-cleaning and laundry service
Access hundreds of newspapers and magazines via PressReader when you download the Loews Hotels mobile app
Cribs available upon request
Pets are welcome to Loews Hotels in designated pet rooms.
Hotel Services
Lobby Concierge: Team Members are on hand to assist with any questions you have and any special requests.
Dry Cleaning: For dry cleaning or laundry, same-day service is available 6 days a week, including holidays. Express service is also available.
Internet: You can connect from your guest room, public spaces and even the pool deck. A premium wireless internet plan is also available for a fee.
Room Service: If you prefer to dine in your room or suite, Room Service is available 24 hours a day
On-Site Business Center: located near Conference Area. Available Monday-Friday, 7AM-5:30PM for Computer Usage and Printing.
Complimentary Boarding Pass Printing. Staff available M-F 7AM-5:30PM to assist with high volume copies and shipping.
Age Requirements: You must be 21 years of age, and provide proper identification upon check-in.
Pool and recreation
Dining Options
Sapphire Falls Resort offers a wide array of restaurant and lounge options.
Theme Park Transportation
Hotel Address:
Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando
6601 Adventure Way
Orlando, Florida 32819
Check in time is 4 p.m. Check out is 11 a.m.
Frequently Asked Questions about Sapphire Falls Resort.
As a travel advisor, I get a lot of hotel questions every day. Here are some of the most common questions my clients have about Sapphire Falls hotel. If you have questions about this resort, I can help! Let’s start working together on your Orlando vacation today!
Does Sapphire Falls have free breakfast?
No, the official hotels of Universal Orlando Resort do not include free breakfast unless you’re staying club level, available at the Premier Resorts.
Is the pool at Sapphire Falls heated?
Yes, the pool is heated during cooler weather. Lifeguards are also on duty.
Is there a resort fee at Sapphire Falls?
No, Universal does not charge a seperate resort fee at its hotels.
Can you walk to parks from Sapphire Falls?
Yes, there is a walking path from Sapphire Falls to City Walk and the entrance to Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios.
How many rooms does Sapphire Falls have?
Sapphire Falls has 1,000 rooms and 83 suites, each with a Caribbean theme.
Can you walk from Cabana Bay to Sapphire Falls?
Yes, it is possible to walk to Cabana Bay and Aventura hotels from Sapphire Falls. It’s also possible to walk to Volcano Bay however you will need to cross a busy street. A crosswalk and traffic signal are provided.
Do you get Express Pass at Sapphire Falls?
No, Universal Express Pass is not included free at Sapphire Falls hotel. This is what separates Sapphire Falls from the Premier hotels. Only the Universal Primere hotels include free Express Passes with valid theme park admission tickets.
Does Sapphire Falls have a water slide?
Yes, the pool at Sapphire Falls resort has a water slide and daily poolside entertainment.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I can help! I’m an Orlando - based travel advisor specialing in Universal Orlando and Walt Disney World. I provide insider tips and advice so you can do Orlando like a pro!
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Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 13 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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The Weeknd: After Hours Nightmare at Universal Orlando - Halloween Horror Nights
Global Music Phenomenon and Multi Award-Winning Artist, The Weeknd,
Collaborates with Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights to Create All-New Haunted Houses
Inspired by His Record-Breaking “After Hours” Album
Today I’m excited to share that multi award-winning artist The Weeknd (one of my favorite artists) has partnered with Universal Orlando Halloween Horror Nights to create new, terrifying haunted houses based on his record-breaking “After Hours” album.
Beginning September 2, 2022 at Universal Orlando Resort you will enter the twisted mind of this mysterious artist to experience “The Weeknd: After Hours Nightmare.”
With the eerie sounds of “After Hours” reverberating throughout the experience, you’ll step into a surreal living nightmare filled with grotesque characters and themes inspired by The Weeknd’s music and short films.
As you’re stalked by slashers, bandaged maniacs, gruesome toad-like creatures and other unfathomable horrors from the mind of the artist, you’ll be challenged to survive the night while trapped within the terrifying, unexpected world of “The Weeknd: After Hours Nightmare”
Halloween Horror Nights Trailer
Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights will run select nights through Monday, October 31, and more details and haunted houses will be revealed soon.
For more information about Halloween Horror Nights, visit UniversalOrlando.com/Fall.
Check our Agency Exclusive Offers from Magical Vacations Travel for Universal Orlando Resort hotels this fall.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 13 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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