How Do I Avoid Lines at Universal's Theme Parks?
Use a touring plan and arrive early to the parks. A good touring plan will save you up to three hours of standing in line per day. The other important thing you can do to minimize your time in lines is arrive at the entrance turnstiles, admission in hand, prior to opening so that you are among the first to enter the empty park. Then visit the attractions that have the worst lines first. If you move quickly, you will have experienced most key attractions before the masses arrive.
Is Universal Express Plus Worth the Money?
It depends on how much value you put on pre-trip planning and sleeping in. If you have a touring plan and arrive at the parks before opening, your waits in most lines will average less than 15 minutes. In that case, purchasing Universal Express Plus probably isn't worth the expense. If you'd prefer to arrive well after park opening, and you don't want to follow a touring plan, then the cost of Universal Express Plus may be worthwhile.
How Long Does It Take To Tour The Parks?
It takes from 8 to 10 hours to tour Universal Studios Florida, depending on how many shows you wish to see, and how many breaks you take. It takes 9 to 11 hours to tour Islands of Adventure, depending on how crowded the park is and how many breaks you take.
Should I Take An Afternoon Break?
A mid-day break can be marvelously refreshing, letting you escape the heat and crowds. Consider heading back to your resort for a meal, a nap, or to spend some time in a pool or air conditioning. This lets your family recharge and be ready for nighttime parades, fireworks, and rides.
The downside to a mid-day break is that it can take from 3 to 4 hours, depending on the distance to your resort. If you've got only one day to tour a park, your mid-day break could mean giving up 30 to 40% of your available time for rides. But if the park is open past 8 PM, we suggest taking the break.
