I’ll be totally honest. It had been a hot minute since I’d been to Universal up until this past weekend. I had an annual pass when I used to live in Florida but I hadn’t been back since I moved home 8 years ago. I learned SO much this past weekend about what makes Universal a great option for families and also for adults!
Universal is a lot smaller than Disney World. If you’ve ever been to Disneyland the layout of Universal is more similar to that. You could walk to the theme parks from any of the hotels. Some would be an easier/fast walk that others of course but still, it’s possible! I love that aspect. One thing I don’t love about Disney is that it’s so huge you’re walking 8 miles a day and are totally exhausted everyday. Universal feels more chill and less rushed since you should have enough time to do everything especially if you have an Express Pass.
The Express Pass is another thing that is very different from Disney’s Genie+. It’s no secret that most of us don’t love Genie+. It’s expensive, confusing to use, and causes you to spend half your day on your phone. The Express Pass is also pricey (if you don’t stay at a premier resort) but it’s a lot more user friendly. You literally just show your pass at the entrance of the line and you’re in the express pass lane! You can use this once per participating rides. You can also purchase the Express Pass unlimited- this allows you to ride in the Express Pass line an unlimited amount of times. With this system you just walk to whatever ride you want and get in line. No getting up at 7am and booking lightning lanes, no checking your phone constantly booking the next one and seeing what’s available and no zig zagging all over the parks to get to your next ride! I love this system and I think it’s totally worth the money!
Let’s talk resorts. My husband and I love a nice resort. I was so excited I got to tour the Universal Resorts! I was surprised how much I loved them! The pools are amazing, even at the value resorts! They have great large gyms, arcades, bars & restuarants and the higher level resorts have pool side services! I really feel like staying in a higher level Universal resort could give you the ability to have 2 vacations in one- a poolside high end resort vacation and a theme park vacation!
For years Universal has kind of advertised themselves as a place for adults and teens. Maybe even to their own detriment. I think they’re trying to change that stereotype and show that are also for families and younger kids! There’s tons of rides the little ones can go on so trust me they won’t be bored! As someone who is NOT a roller coaster fan there’s plenty for me to do as well! They have lots of great 3-D rides, shops and dining!
We will definitely be spending more time at Universal and their resorts! They have some great deals going on right now including 30% off a 5 night stay! Complete my form here to get started on booking your next adventure! https://forms.gle/fFwg5mY2mN5wb4CMA
**Disclaimer** Universal is not as plus size friendly as Disney. They do have tester seats in front of the rides and I’d encourage you to try those first if you think you might have an issue fitting on something.
