Posted on May 28, 2025
As one of the most popular tourist destinations in the US, Universal Orlando Resort offers lots of exciting attractions for all ages. If you're planning a trip to Universal Orlando, it's important that you pick the best time of year to visit. While every day is an amazing day to go to Universal Orlando, there are some factors that you need to consider to maximize your visit.
Typically, families opt to visit during weekdays to avoid the crowds. But what if you're looking to experience some seasonal events and exclusive fun? This guide will help you find the best time of the year to go to Universal Orlando.
First, let's take a look at the exciting stuff Universal Orlando has in store for us this year. Keep reading.
As we always say, one whole day is not enough to explore Universal Orlando Resort. With tons of fun activities in every season, picking the best day will help you maximize your experience. Here are some of the biggest events you should not miss in Universal Orlando this 2025:
Opening of Universal Epic Universe, over 20 new attractions, shows, and experiences, and opening of three new hotels just right next to Epic Universe. Get your Universal Orlando theme park tickets now and witness history unfold this May.
Halloween Horror Nights for the spine-chilling aesthetic and experiences. This event will run from August 29 to November 2 at Universal Studios Florida.
Holiday feels come early at Universal Orlando Resort. Don't miss the most colorful and sparkling holiday parades, shows, and more happening at Universal Studios Florida & Islands of Adventure. Join the vibrant holiday celebrations which will run from November 21 to December 31.
Are you a Potterhead? Make sure to hop into the holiday hype at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter this coming holiday season!
These are just a few of the awesome stuff you can expect from Universal Orlando Resort this year. Check out our guide to Universal Orlando Events 2025 and plan your visit soon.
This factor is a crucial element that will define your experience at Universal Orlando Resort. Picking the day of the week when crowds are calm will help you enjoy each attraction better. On the other hand, busy crowds are best if you want to mingle with other Universal fanatics.
For example, the May 22 crowd for the Universal Epic Universe Opening will be wild. But if you don't mind meeting your fellow adventure junkies, that would be an extra fun day.
Naturally, you can have the best time in the parks when the weather is great. On what type of weather is best it depends on how you want to enjoy your visit. Would you love to get soaked at Volcano Bay? Are you a Potterhead catching spells? Are thrilling rides at the Universal Islands of Adventure your thing?
Your Universal Orlando vacation will be a lot more enjoyable if you pick the season you like the most.
For Universal fans who want to save time and money, pricing is on top of their considerations. True enough, ticket prices are usually affected by the events and activities at the parks. This means that the busiest times at Universal Orlando call for higher ticket prices.
To make sure that you can enjoy your Universal getaway without breaking the bank, grab your Universal Orlando tickets early.
Every event and activity at Universal Orlando Resort is worth it. But if we're talking about maximum fun and enjoyment, choosing events and activities that you love is always the best. Visiting Universal Orlando during special events and celebrations that pique your interest is highly advised.
Of course, you have to make sure that you and your loved ones will truly enjoy your visit. Kiddie preferences can be very different from adults', so make sure to stay updated with the Universal calendar of activities.
We know you want to avoid the hassle of large, wild crowds, and long wait times. Here are the best times of the year to visit Universal Orlando for smaller crowds:
As expected, off-peak season is considered one of the best times to visit Universal Orlando Resort. This season typically comes between holidays and after-school breaks. With kids returning to school, it's a great time to unwind and have fun at Universal Orlando with smaller crowds.
Take note of the following days if you wish to have a more comfortable Universal Orlando experience:
Additionally, holidays like Labor Day and Veteran's Day may still attract crowds, but they will be relatively smaller.
Visiting during shoulder season is also a great way to maximize your day at Universal Orlando. You can expect moderate crowds while still enjoying convenient access to rides and attractions. Shoulder Season typically takes place during spring and fall, with some seasonal events affecting crowd levels.
Mardi Gras and Halloween Horror Nights are two of the most highly-anticipated events during the shoulder season. These events run longer than other activities at the parks. So, if you want to avoid crazy crowds during these events, make sure to visit earlier.
IMPORTANT NOTE: If you're visiting Universal Orlando based on crowd levels, make sure to know each park's operating hours to maximize your visit. Most Universal parks close earlier during off-peak seasons.
If you want to visit Universal Orlando Resort without sweating buckets or getting chapped lips, shoulder season is the best. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather conditions, with a gentle breeze and moderately cool temperatures. Shoulder season is perfect for theme park activities, just like the upcoming opening of Universal Epic Universe.
For Universal fanatics who are not so fond of the Florida heat, visiting during off-peak season is a great move. Off-peak season offers cooler temperatures ranging from 50 to 70 °F. While this range is best for a more convenient strolling and exploring along theme parks, this might be too chilly for a Volcano Bay escapade.
For the best days at Universal Orlando during non-peak season, Tuesday and Wednesday are the most ideal for families. Skip the long lines, take nice photos with your favorite characters, and let the kids enjoy every kiddie ride at the parks. These days also give way to shorter wait times and easier dining reservations.
Generally regarded as the best day of the week to visit Universal Orlando, midweek calls for a hassle-free Universal escapade.
Surprise! We know most of you think that Sunday is considered the peak day for a Universal Orlando visit. But no. In fact, Sunday is among the least busy days. Compared to Saturday when crowds tend to go insane, Sunday crowds are often more manageable.
Just like Wednesday, this day of the week offers convenient wait times for rides, easier reservations, and quieter times at the parks. It's a great time to visit Universal Orlando if you love that to enjoy your favorite rides and attractions without battling in long lines.
Looking for the best time to visit Universal Orlando Resort without breaking the bank? These days are the best days to enjoy more affordable fun:
It's a known fact that ticket prices typically fluctuate based on the time of year. The time of year you visit the parks will certainly define how much you need to spend on your Universal Orlando Resort vacation. With this, travel experts recommend visiting during off-peak seasons, specifically, on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
These days tend to welcome smaller crowds and offer cheaper tickets. On a similar note, September, January, February, and November are the best months to visit Universal Orlando for affordable tickets and calmer crowds. Just don't forget to secure your passes for separately ticketed events in advance for lower prices.
PRO TIP: Purchasing Multi-Day Universal Orlando Tickets will save you as much as 20%, compared to buying individual day tickets.
If you consider staying at select Universal hotels, finding the best day for affordable tickets is easier. Guests planning to stay at Universal Orlando Resort hotels can secure lower-priced tickets during the following days:
FUN FACT: Did you know that most hotels at Universal Orlando offer Free Express Passes? Regardless of the time of year you visit the parks, you can enjoy quick access to your favorite rides and attractions. Cool deal, right?
Before exploring your favorite theme parks, make sure to have your Universal Orlando Packing List ready, too. You don't want to miss your essentials while enjoying your favorite rides and attractions. Secure your tickets early and have the ultimate Universal escapade this year. Enjoy, FunExplorers!
