The Best Time of Year to Visit Universal Orlando
Planning an EPIC vacation? Have the best time! Learn the Best Time of Year to Visit Universal Orlando from a local Passholder.
The first time we went to Universal Orlando it was after a Hurricane. The parks were empty and we just took it for granted that it was fairly normal. A couple of years later, we are now Annual Pass Holders and loving every minute. We have learned a trick or two about when the best times to visit Universal are and we are sharing them with you. So when is the Best Time of year to visit Universal Orlando?
NOT SUMMER
I know I told you I would share the best time of year to visit but let’s talk about the WORST!
SUMMER!
Y’all, it is HOT, like the surface of the sun hot! The parks are crowded with tourists trying to squeeze every minute out of Summer. The lines are long, and tensions are high. While a summer trip to Universal is still fun, it is the least enjoyable time of year to go. If you are still planning a summer trip, check out where to find free water at Universal. You will need it.
September
Now that we know Summer is hot, September is an amazing time to go. With the kids back in school this is the time to really enjoy the parks. September is typically the peak of hurricane season in Florida meaning you might get lucky and have a storm scare off the crowds. It is still hot enough to enjoy the water rides and has the park open late.
PS: The photo of empty Diagon Alley was taken after Hurricane Dorian at about 3 PM on a Wednesday. It was THE BEST!
Keep in mind that Halloween Horror Nights does start in September which can cause an uptick in crowds on specific nights. It also causes Univeral Orlando to close a couple of hours early (around 6 pm). Don’t let that deter you.
October
October is also a great time to visit the parks! A little cooler out, fewer crowds, and Halloween Horror Nights in full swing. With the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Butterbeer everywhere, this is my favorite time of year to enjoy the parks. Obviously, weekends do pick up a bit.
November & December (but not Holidays)
November and December are awesome! People are busy with their families and not thinking about theme parks. To me, this is the best time to go because it is cool outside and you can get on the rides quickly! You can enjoy the parks without getting overheated!
The exception to this rule is the week of Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve! People flock to the parks to spend the holidays with their families. You have been warned!
Jan Until Spring Break
The last fling before spring break and summer vacay! Hit up the parks in January, February, and the first week of March if you can squeak it in. This is the calm before the storm! Once those Spring Breaks, Summer Vacays, and more start the parks will be full. Enjoy it while you can! There are obviously a couple of long holiday weekends in there that I would avoid, but other than that. HAVE FUN!
Why Wait?
Aren’t all theme park days the same? Why would you wait until a slow day? When you know, you know.
Slow days are the best because you can enjoy the parks in all their glory! You have elbow room to see all the details you might miss in the crowds. Plus, you won’t waste your day standing in ride lines. You can ride things typically in under 30 minutes. It’s the best!
Hopefully, you have fun no matter when you decide to go to Universal Orlando! It is our favorite park and I know you will enjoy it too!
