What to Know Before you Go to the Universal Orlando Resort
Official Universal Orlando Policies Visiting the Parks Dining at Universal Orlando Universal Orlando Resort Hotels
Whether you a Lifetime Guest of the theme parks or you are planning your first trip, there are new things that every traveler should be aware of – the things you need to “know before you go”. Being informed and prepared is the best way to insure a great vacation and positive memories for a lifetime.
This page is designed to give you the best start at that magical trip! As more information is released, this page will be updated to reflect the most current information. Don’t want to go it alone? The agents at the Magic for Less Travel would love to be of assistance, and at no additional cost to you!
Also, if you are just getting started, also be sure to check out our Universal Orlando Vacation Planning page for more tips, tricks and advice.
Know Before You Go – Universal Orlando Policies
For the official policies and procedures straight from Universal, visit the New Universal Orlando Policies & Procedures page.
Know Before You Go to Universal Orlando Visiting The Parks
To visit the theme parks, there are a few things you need to know before you go.
Limiting Park Attendance
While Universal does not have a park reservation system like Disney is currently using, they are still limiting attendance at both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. Since there is no reservation system, there may be times when the parks reach capacity and entry will be halted – arriving early in the day is the best way to prevent this from happening to you. Guests can also call 407-817-8317 to see the most current capacity information.
Health and Safety
For those who are fully vaccinated, Universal Orlando is no longer requiring face coverings indoors or outdoors. Face coverings are still required indoors for guests who are not fully vaccinated, although Universal Orlando does not require proof of vaccination. Travel parties should still keep a safe distance from other guests. Cleaning and sanitation standards are still the focus at Universal Orlando.
Currently, acceptable face coverings must:
- be made with at least 2 layers of breathable material
- fully cover the nose and moth and secure under the chin
- fit snugly but comfortable against the side of the face
- be secured with ear ties or loops
Currently neck gaiters, open-chin triangle bandanas, costume masks and face coverings containing valves, mesh, or holes are not acceptable.
More details about the Universal Orlando face covering policy can be found here.
Virtual Lines
Universal Orlando is currently offering virtual lines for a variety of attractions in Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, and all attractions in Volcano Bay.
The attractions include:
- Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
- Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon
- Revenge of the Mummy
- Fast & Furious – Supercharged
- Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
- Ollivander’s Experience in Hogsmeade and in Diagon Alley
- Skull Island: Reign of Kong
- Pteranodon Flyers
- Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
- Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
- All Attractions in Volcano Bay
To join a virtual line, guests will need to log into their Universal Orlando account on the Universal app, tap Virtual Line, and select a time. We recommend taking a screen shot of your line QR as a back up, as you will need to have it scanned to enter the line at your appointed time.
Volcano Bay
Volcano Bay is currently open, but operating under a reduced capacity for each attraction, some operational alterations to keep travel parties separate, and other measures to promote social distancing inside the park. Face coverings are not mandatory in Volcano Bay since it is an outdoor experience, and are not allowed on slides or in pools for guest safety.
Dining at Universal Orlando
Mobile Ordering
Mobile ordering is currently available at many dining locations throughout the resort. Guests can apply a passholder discount on mobile orders, but are unable to utilize Universal Orlando gift cards or Universal Dining Plans.
Mobile ordering is done through the Universal Orlando app.
Dining Reservations
For most restaurants inside the theme parks, dining reservations are available around 30 days in advance. Many City Walk and resort hotel restaurants accept reservations up to 90 days in advance.
To make reservations either visit this site or call 407-224-3663
With social distancing and reduced capacity, it is recommended to make desired dining reservations as soon as possible within this window
Dining Plans
Universal Orlando dining plans are currently available.
Hotels
The Universal hotels have adopted enhanced cleaning procedures, social distancing, reduced capacity, and increased contactless experiences. Guests are still required to wear face coverings in indoor common areas.
Currently, these hotels are open:
- Portofino Bay Hotel
- Hard Rock Hotel
- Royal Pacific Resort
- Sapphire Falls Resort
- Cabana Bay Beach Resort
- Endless Summer Resort – Dockside
- Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites
This hotel will open at a later time