Choosing the right time to visit Universal Orlando can make all the difference in your experience. In addition to avoiding huge lines, you can save a lot on flights, accommodation and tickets. In this complete guide, we will show you best time to visit universal in orlando, taking into account weather, capacity, prices and special events.
Weather in Orlando: what is the best season to travel?
The weather can have a direct impact on your enjoyment of the parks. Intense heat can make the experience tiring, while cold weather can limit the use of water attractions.
Temperature and rainfall throughout the year
- Summer (June to September): Intense heat (25ºC to 35ºC) and frequent rain, especially in the afternoon. It is the hottest and most humid time of the year.
- Autumn (October to December): Milder temperatures (15ºC to 28ºC), dry climate and little rain.
- Winter (January to March): Sunny days and cool nights (10ºC to 25ºC). Good time for those who don't like heat.
- Spring (April to May): Pleasant temperatures (18ºC to 30ºC) and little rain.
How Weather Affects Your Visit to Universal
- Summer: More queues, lots of heat and rain showers.
- Autumn: Perfect weather and special events like the Halloween Horror Nights.
- Winter: Parks are emptier, but water attractions can be chilly.
- Spring: Excellent balance between pleasant weather and less crowding.
If your focus is pleasant weather and shorter lines, April, May, September and October are the best choices.
Park capacity: when are they emptiest?
If you want to make the most of it, avoiding long queues, choose the right time for your visit.
High and low season calendar
- High season (very crowded):
- Christmas and New Year (December to January)
- Spring Break (March and April)
- Summer holidays (June and July)
- Halloween Horror Nights (September and October, evenings)
- Low season (less queues):
- Second half of January
- February (except holidays)
- April and May (except Easter)
- Late August to early October
Best days of the week to visit
- Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays are usually the emptiest days.
- Saturdays and Sundays are the busiest, as they attract local visitors.
How to avoid queues and choose the best days
- Arrive early: Gates open around 8 or 9 am, so getting there before they open ensures you get to enjoy the most popular attractions.
- Use the Universal Express Pass: Avoid queues at several attractions.
- Take advantage of Early Park Admission: Some Universal partner hotels offer early check-in.
- Consider the Single Rider: Exclusive queue for those who agree to go alone on the attractions, reducing waiting time.
If your goal is to avoid crowds, plan your trip to February, April, September or early November.
Prices and promotions: when is it cheaper to travel?
The cost of travel can vary greatly depending on the time of year.
The months with the cheapest flights and accommodation
- January and February (except holidays): The cheapest time of the year.
- September and October: Post-summer promotions.
- April and May: Lower rates before the July holidays.
How to find discounts on tickets and packages
- Buy tickets in advance: Authorized agencies and Universal's official website offer discounts for advance purchases.
- Take advantage of seasonal promotions: Some months offer packages with free nights or reduced ticket prices.
- Avoid purchasing at the box office: Prices are higher than on the internet.
If you want to save, plan your trip for the months of January, February, September or October.
Impact of holidays and special events
Holidays and events can increase park crowds, but they also offer unique experiences.
American holidays that increase capacity
- New Year (January 1st)
- Spring Break (March and April)
- July 4th (Independence Day)
- Thanksgiving (November)
- Christmas and New Year (December to January)
Events and festivals at Universal: are they worth visiting?
- Halloween Horror Nights (September and October): The largest horror event in the US, with haunted houses and special shows.
- Mardi Gras (February to April): Parades, typical foods and live shows.
- Christmas at Universal (November and December): Themed parades and special attractions inspired by the Grinch.
If you want to avoid crowds, avoid holidays. But if you want a different experience, it's worth visiting during these events.
Best time according to your travel profile
Every traveler has different needs. See which time is best for you:
Family travel: best times for children
- April, May, September and October are ideal, as the parks are quieter and the weather is pleasant.
For those who want to enjoy the empty park
- End of January, February and September are the months with the shortest queues.
For those looking for seasonal attractions (Christmas, Halloween, etc.)
- Halloween Horror Nights: September and October.
- Christmas at Universal: November and December.
- Mardi Gras: February to April.
Comparison between Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure
Although the two parks are within the same complex, capacity may vary.
- Universal Studios: There are more indoor attractions, which means it rains less inside the park. During events like Halloween Horror Nights, it gets crowded at night.
- Islands of Adventure: It is more popular because of attractions like the Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, which usually has long lines.
If you want a less crowded park, choose weekdays and low season months.
Conclusion: What is the best month for you?
If your goal is avoid queues and save money, the best times to visit Universal Orlando are April, May, September and October.
If you want special events, worth visiting at Halloween (October) or Christmas (December).
Now that you know all about the best time to visit universal in orlando, choose your date and get ready for the trip of your dreams!