Universal Studios Orlando Parking: Everything You Need to Know

Planning a visit to Universal Studios Orlando and its theme parks? You’re in the right place! Here are some essential parking tips to help you save time and money. This guide covers the best parking options, cost-saving strategies, and useful tips for a smooth experience.

Key Takeaways

• Best Parking Options at Universal Studios Orlando: Choose from Regular, Prime, Valet, Accessible, or RV/Bus parking to fit your needs and budget. Regular parking is the cheapest at $30 per day, while Prime and Valet parking offer closer access but at higher costs.
• Money-Saving Tips for Parking: Save on parking fees by arriving after 6 PM for free parking on non-event nights, using annual passholder discounts, or validating your parking with movie tickets at Universal Cinemark.
• Smooth Parking Experience Tips: Arrive early to get better parking spots, use navigation apps to avoid traffic, and remember to keep your parking receipt for re-entry and any fee issues.

Parking Options at Universal Studios Orlando

Universal Studios Orlando, part of the Universal Orlando Resort, has several parking options to fit different needs and budgets. All parking is centralized at the Universal Orlando Parking Garage, making it convenient but also important to choose the right type of parking for your visit. The main categories include:

• Regular parking
• Prime parking
• Valet parking
• Accessible parking
• RV/Bus parking

Each category has its own set of features and costs.

Let’s take a closer look at these options to help you make the best choice for your family.

Regular Parking

Regular parking is the most budget-friendly option, starting at $30 per day and going up to $60 during peak times. Even though it’s the cheapest, you still get covered parking, which is great for Florida’s unpredictable weather. But be ready for a longer walk to the Universal CityWalk area, especially if you arrive later in the day.

Prime Parking

If you want a shorter walk to the park, vehicle prime parking might be worth the extra cost. Prices range from $50 to $60 depending on the season, giving you closer access to CityWalk and saving you valuable time. While it’s more expensive than regular parking, the convenience of being closer to the park entrance can be a big plus.

Valet Parking

For the ultimate convenience, consider Valet parking. Located near the CityWalk entrance, it offers quick access and a VIP parking security area. Costs vary, with $32 for less than two hours and $75 for more than two hours before 6 PM. Plus, valet parking includes free charging stations for electric vehicles.

Accessible Parking

Accessible parking is available for guests with a handicap sticker. It’s located on level three and provides easy access to the moving walkways.

On-site wheelchair rentals are available at the transportation center, ensuring a comfortable experience for all guests.

RV and Bus Parking

For those traveling in larger vehicles, RV and Bus parking is available in the General Parking Garage for $40 per day. Spaces are limited, so it’s best to arrive early to get a spot.

How to Save Money on Universal Orlando Parking

Parking fees can add up quickly, but there are several ways to save money when parking at Universal Orlando. From taking advantage of free parking after 6 PM to using annual passholder discounts and validating movie tickets, you can significantly reduce your parking expenses. Let’s dive into these money-saving strategies.

Free Parking After 6 PM

One of the best ways to save on parking is to arrive after 6 PM, when parking becomes free on non-event nights. However, keep in mind that this does not apply during special events like Halloween Horror Nights, when free parking is only available after midnight.

Annual Passholder Discounts

Annual passholders can enjoy various parking discounts based on their pass level. Premier Pass holders get free Valet or Prime Parking, while Preferred Pass holders can get free Self-Parking or Valet Parking for $30. However, these discounts are not available during special events like Halloween Horror Nights.

Movie Ticket Validation

Another great way to save is by validating your parking with movie tickets. Universal Cinemark offers free self-parking for matinee showings with the purchase of two or more tickets. Just present your movie tickets along with the parking ticket at the Universal Cinemark box office to get reimbursed.

Getting Around the Parking Garages

Getting around the parking garages at Universal Studios Orlando can be easy if you know what to expect, especially after arriving at Orlando International Airport. The garages are color-coded and labeled with sections to help you find your way. To make your experience smoother, we will look at the layout, tips for finding your car, and safety measures.

Parking Garage Layout

The North parking garage has five levels and is divided into sections named Jaws, King Kong, and Jurassic Park. The South garage has six floors and includes sections like Spider-Man, Cat in the Hat, and ET. These themed sections make it easier to remember where you parked.

Finding Your Car

To avoid the hassle of forgetting where you parked, take a photo of your parking spot or use a phone app to mark your location. Remembering the themed section names can also be very helpful.

Safety Measures

Be ready for safety checks at the transportation hub, including bag checks, metal detectors, and x-ray machines. Guests using Valet Parking have a separate security scanning area at ground level, skipping the main entrance rotunda.

Guest Drop-Off and Ride Sharing

If you prefer not to park, guest drop-off and ride-sharing services offer convenient alternatives. These options can save you time and parking fees while providing a hassle-free experience. Let’s check out the specific drop-off sites and ride-sharing services.

Drop-Off Locations

The designated drop-off and pick-up area is on the fifth floor of the North Parking Garage, in the Jurassic Park section. From there, guests can walk to the main transportation hub where the security checkpoint is located. Additionally, guests can take advantage of the complimentary Volcano Bay shuttle from the dedicated Volcano Bay parking section to the park’s entrance.

Ride Share Services

For ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, the designated pick-up and drop-off point is also on the fifth floor of the North Parking Garage, in the Jurassic Park section. Knowing these locations can ensure a smooth experience when using ride-share services.

Special Event Parking

Parking fees and conditions can change during special events, so it’s important to be prepared. Whether it’s Halloween Horror Nights or other special occasions, knowing what to expect can save you from any surprises.

Halloween Horror Nights

On Halloween Horror Nights, free self-parking is available after midnight. This can be a great option if you’re planning to stay late for the festivities. Just remember, valet parking fees go up to $75 for over two hours during this event.

Other Special Events

Similar parking rules and higher fees apply during other special events at Universal Studios Orlando. It’s always a good idea to check the parking information for each event before you go.

Additional Tips for a Smooth Parking Experience

Here are some extra tips to make your parking experience hassle-free. Arriving early, using navigation apps, and keeping your parking receipt can make a big difference.

Arrive Early

Getting there early not only helps you find closer parking spots but also helps you avoid long lines at the parking toll booths.

Use Navigation Apps

Apps like Google Maps and Waze can help you avoid traffic and find the best route to Universal Studios Orlando.

Keep Your Parking Receipt

Keeping your parking receipt is important for re-entry on the same day and for resolving any issues about your parking fee.

Final Thoughts

To sum it up, knowing the different parking options and using money-saving tips can make your visit to Universal Studios Orlando much better. By arriving early, using navigation apps, and keeping your parking receipt, you’ll have a smooth and enjoyable experience. Have a fantastic time at Universal Studios Orlando!

FAQs

What are the parking options at Universal Studios Orlando?

Universal Studios Orlando offers several parking options, including regular, prime, valet, accessible, and RV/bus parking. You can choose the one that best fits your needs and budget.

How can I save money on parking?

You can save money on parking by arriving after 6 PM for free parking on non-event nights, using annual passholder discounts, and validating your parking with movie tickets. These tips can help you keep more cash in your wallet.

Are there any special considerations for parking during events?

Yes, parking fees and conditions can change during special events. It’s a good idea to check the event details ahead of time so you know what to expect.

Where can I find drop-off and ride-share locations?

Drop-off and ride-share locations are on the fifth floor of the North Parking Garage, in the Jurassic Park section. This makes it easy to get in and out quickly.

What should I do if I forget where I parked?

If you forget where you parked, take a photo of your parking spot or use a phone app to mark your location. This simple step can save you a lot of time and stress later.