If you’re planning a trip to Universal Studios Orlando, one of the most important things you’ll need to figure out is how to get there! In this post, we’ll go over all your Universal Studios parking options so that you can choose the best one for your needs.
Universal Studios is a favorite of mine, especially because I am a serious Harry Potter fan. I enjoy the different feel it has compared to Disney and all of the Harry Potter things.
When it comes to parking at Universal Studios Orlando, there are a decent amount of things to know.
For example, there are different parking options available, and the best one for you will depend on your particular situation.
You’ll have complimentary parking if you’re staying at one of the on-site hotels. This is also the case if you have an annual pass.
If you’re visiting for the day, there are two main options: self-parking and valet parking. Self-parking is less expensive, but it’s also further from the entrance.
Valet parking is more convenient, but it’s also more expensive.
Ultimately, the best option for you will depend on your budget and comfort level.
Whichever option you choose, be sure to allow yourself plenty of time to park and walk to the entrance.
The last thing you want is to miss your favorite ride because you were running late!
Table of Contents
How Much Does Parking Cost at Universal Studios?
The cost of parking at Universal Studios Orlando will depend on the type of parking you choose.
General Parking
If you opt for self-parking, it will cost you $27 per day.
Valet Parking
Valet parking costs $60 per day.
Of course, these prices are subject to change, so check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
What Is Prime Parking?
Universal Studios Prime Parking is a premium parking service that allows guests to park their vehicles in a prime location within the Universal Studios Orlando theme park.
When you arrive at one of the Universal parking garages, you have the option of paying for Universal Prime Parking.
For a higher price you’ll be allowed to park your car on one of the lower levels giving you closer access to the main security hub and entrance.
Each third-floor wing features three parking levels, with Prime Parking on the center section of each. The location of Prime Parking is critical since it’s on the same level as the security center.
This not only saves you time from walking back and forth to the security hub, but also cuts down on the number of elevator rides needed to access CityWalk and the parks.
How Many Parking Spaces Are At Universal Studios Orlando?
According to the official website for Universal Studios Orlando, there are more than 25,000 parking spaces available on site. But this includes their resort parking spots.
This includes both surface parking and garage parking. In addition, a limited number of electric vehicle charging stations are available.
For guests staying at one of the on-site hotels, a complimentary shuttle service is also available.
Consequently, plenty of parking should be available for guests planning to visit Universal Studios Orlando.
Universal Studios Orlando has 10,200 parking spaces, making it the fifth-largest parking lot in the world.
Universal Studios Orlando Parking Organization
The organization of the parking lot at Universal Studios is pretty straightforward.
In order to minimize any confusion and help guests locate their parking spots more rapidly, they have divided the parking lot into sections, with each section being named after a movie or character.
There are also plenty of helpful signs and employees who can direct you to where you need to go.
What is the Best Parking Hack for Universal Studios Orlando?
VISIT AFTER 6:00 PM
If you are local to Florida or just looking to add an extra ride or two before your vacation is over, visiting after 6:00 pm is a great option. Parking after 6 pm is free
USE A RIDESHARE SERVICE
While you will still have to pay, riding in a group with other people is a wonderful method to save money because you may be able to divide the cost among everyone in your party.
Guests using rideshare services like Uber will be dropped off and picked up at the Uber Zone on the top level of the garage.
STAY OFF PROPERTY AND TAKE A SHUTTLE
Many off-site hotels offer complimentary transportation to and from Universal Studios.
Although many of these shuttles have specific pickup/drop-off times, this is still a great money-saving option if you don’t mind that.
When you add up the costs of transportation and food, even if you’re spending money on parking at an off-site resort, they are much cheaper than what you’d spend at Universal Studios when everything is said and done.
Where Is General Parking Located?
The General Parking garage is located at the end of Productions Drive.
There are a few ways to get there, but the easiest way is probably via I-4.
Take exit 75B for Universal Blvd, then turn right onto Universal Blvd.
Stay in the right lane and take the first right onto Hollywood Way.
Then turn right onto Adventure Way and follow the signs for General Parking.
Once in the garage, follow the signs to your specific section.
What Time Does The Parking Lot Open?
Like the theme parks, the parking lot at Universal Studios Orlando opens one hour before the park opens.
This gives guests plenty of time to find a spot and make their way into the park.
The parking lot at Universal Studios Orlando opens early, typically at 7 am. To be certain of the opening time on your chosen day, it is best to check with concierge services at your resort or on the Universal Studios Orlando website.
The lots will be closed at 12 am. If you want to visit on holidays, remember to check the hours first since they can change depending on the holiday.
Which Parking Option In Universal Studios Orlando Is The Best Value?
There are three main choices for parking at Universal Studios Orlando: self-parking, valet parking, and complimentary shuttle service.
Self-parking is the most affordable option, with rates starting at $27 per day.
Valet parking is more expensive, starting at $60 per day, but it offers the convenience of not having to walk long distances from your car.
A complimentary shuttle service is available for guests staying at certain on-site hotels and is free of charge.
All things considered, self-parking is the best value for visitors to Universal Studios Orlando. It’s more affordable than valet parking, and it’s still convenient enough that you won’t have to spend a lot of time walking from your car to the park entrance.
Plus, if you’re staying at a hotel that offers a complimentary shuttle service, you can always take advantage of that as well.
How Do I Get To Universal Studios Orlando?
To get to Universal Studios Orlando, you will need to fly into the Orlando International Airport.
From there, you can take a taxi, Uber, or Lyft to the park. You can also take the bus or rent a car.
Driving Yourself to Universal
If you’re driving yourself to Universal Studios Orlando from the Orlando Airport, take SR-528 West (toll road) to I-4 East.
Take exit 75B for Universal Blvd, then turn right onto Universal Blvd.
Stay in the right lane and take the first right onto Hollywood Way.
To get there from the Disney World resort area, take I-4 West to exit 75A for Kirkman Rd/SR-435.
Keep left at the fork to continue on Exit 75A, follow signs for International Dr/Convention Center, and merge onto Universal Blvd.
How Much is the Parking at Universal Studios Orlando?
These are the daily Universal parking fees per vehicle
Prime Parking:
$60
Prime Upgrade:
$32
RV/Bus Parking:
$32
Regular Parking:
$27
If you are wondering what the Islands of Adventure parking cost is, now you know!
Universal Valet Parking
Valet parking is best if you want to be close to the security hub. This way, you can get into and out of the parks quickly and easily.
If you’re limited on time and have the money to spare, this is the best option for you.
How much is valet parking at Universal?
Valet parking at Universal Studios Orlando is $27 for the first two hours of your visit and $75 for any time over two hours.
Prices vary after 6 pm from $27.00 for 2 hours, $40.00 for over 2 hours, and $50.00 for over 2 hours on Mardi Gras concert nights.
What Is Prime Parking?
When you reach a Universal parking garage, you can opt to pay for premium parking.
$60 gets you a spot on one of the lower parking levels, which is closer to the main security entrance.
The security hub is located on the third floor, in the middle section of each wing. Directly adjacent to the security hub is Prime Parking- making it extremely convenient to get to the park.
By having your car at the entrance to CityWalk, you spend less time walking back and forth from the security hub. You will also take fewer lifts to get around CityWalk and the parks, so it’s more convenient all-around.
Accessible Parking at Universal Orlando
Universal Studios Orlando does an excellent job of providing accessible parking to visitors who require it.
All you have to do when you arrive is inform a team member that you need an accessible parking place, and they’ll lead you to one.
There are several of these spaces on the third level of the parking garage nearest to the park’s main entrance.
When you get to your destination, tell a staff member that you require an accessible parking spot so they can help reserve one for you.
You’ll be asked to turn on your hazards, and one of the team members will personally escort you to the handicapped parking lot.
If one of your visitors requires a wheelchair, contact them ahead of time and let the transportation staff know.
Electric Parking
Universal Orlando Resort recently installed an electric car charging station in its on-site parking garage. The new charging station is available for guests who drive electric cars, and it’s a great example of the resort’s commitment to being environmentally friendly.
The charging station is located on Level 1 of the parking garage and is easy to find. Just look for the signs that say “Electric Car Charging Station.” When you pull into the spot, you’ll see that there are two charging ports. The charging process is simple: just connect your car to the port and wait for the charging process to begin.
It’s important to note that the charging station is for electric cars only – not for hybrid cars or gas-powered cars. So if you’re driving a hybrid or gas-powered car, you won’t be able to use the charging station.
Universal Orlando Resort is committed to reducing its carbon footprint, and the new electric car charging station is just one way they are doing that.
You must request a valet parking space to park in the electric charging spaces. There is only a $60 charge for prime parking, and no additional fees for using the electric charger.
There are a limited number of charging stations on the property. Two Tesla-compatible chargers and two general electric vehicles (EV) Chargers are available for use.
Universal Studios RV Parking
To make parking as uncomplicated as possible for all of our guests, Universal Studios Orlando has set aside designated parking spaces for RVs, mobile homes, and buses. The cost to park one of these vehicles is $32 per day, regardless of size.
Remember that Universal Studios Orlando doesn’t allow anyone to park overnight.
Instead, we propose looking for RV sites in the region that will allow you to park overnight and take a shuttle to Universal.
Parking at Volcano Bay
Unfortunately, there is no guest parking at Volcano Bay. Guests are advised to park in the main parking garages and use the free shuttle service provided by Universal Studios when going to and from Volcano Bay.
The Spider-Man, Cat in the Hat, and E.T parking garages will be directed to you as you enter the Universal parking garage. Because the bus station is located on the lower level behind the Cat In The Hat lot, these are the best places to park for Volcano Bay.
Is There Free Parking at CityWalk?
No, CityWalk is subject to the same parking fees as the parks.
Parking might be free if you arrive after 6 pm. However, this depends on the time of year, as they often host special events. You’ll still have to pay for parking if a special event happens after 6 pm.
Receive complimentary regular parking* for any showtimes from 11am-6pm when you buy two or more Universal Cinemark matinee tickets. *(Paid parking fee will be refunded with valid receipt upon exiting the parking garage. Some restrictions may apply.)
What About Parking for Special Events?
Paid parking is required for all special events held at Universal Studios, including Halloween Horror Nights and Mardi Gras.
Make sure to hang on to your parking receipt.
If you are using a hotel shuttle, make sure to check the times of pick up and drop off are adjusted for the special event times.
Parking At Universal Studios Resorts
Nowadays, most resorts charge a daily parking fee, including the Universal Resorts.
All Universal Studios Orlando hotels and resorts charge a fee for overnight parking. You will be charged $28 per night for self-parking or $37 for valet parking if you are a registered guest.
Guests at Cabana Bay and Aventura hotels are charged $18 per night, with self-parking the only parking option available. Meanwhile, Endless Summer Hotel charges its guests $15 per night for self-parking during their stay.
Universal Hotel Guest Parking
The prices for self-parking and valet parking vary depending on the hotel you are staying at. For example, if you are visiting Sapphire Falls, Hard Rock Hotel, or Portofino Bay, then you can expect to pay around $30 for self-parking and $42 for valet parking.
However, at other hotels, such as Royal Pacific, the price is raised to $45 for self-parking but stays consistent at $42 for valet.
Universal Orlando Hotel Shuttles
Hotel guests can take advantage of the complimentary shuttle service that runs between all on-site Universal Orlando hotels and CityWalk.
The shuttles run every 20 minutes from 7 am until 2 am, with pick-up and drop-off locations near the main lobby of each hotel.
The last pick-up from the parks back to the hotels is two hours after the park closes.
Universal Studios Rideshare 101
If you’re planning on using a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft to get to Universal Studios, there are a few things you should know.
First, Uber and Lyft do have an official drop-off/pick-up point at Universal Studios.
You will be dropped off at the top level of the parking garage.
However, keep in mind that during busy times, traffic can get backed up, and it may take some time for your driver to find a spot to pull over.
With the cost of parking and the fact that rideshare services can be split, sometimes it can be no brainer.
Universal Parking Tips For Guests Traveling from Disney World
If you’re coming from Disney World to visit Universal Studios, there are a couple of things you should know about the parking situation.
First, it’s important to note that there is no direct bus transportation between Disney World and Universal Studios.
The only way to get from one park to another.
What is the Islands of Adventure Parking Cost?
As a common inquiry from first-time visitors, many ask about the cost of parking at Islands of Adventure. Since all three Universal Orlando parks share the same lot, the standard parking price for Islands of Adventure is $27 per car. The parking layout at Universal Orlando is designed to make it incredibly convenient for guests to visit any of the three parks and city walk. You may follow the instructions on this page to prepare for your day at Islands of Adventure.
Univeral Studios Orlando Parking FAQ
Q: How much does it cost to park at Universal Studios Orlando?
A: General parking costs $26 per vehicle per day. However, prime parking and valet parking options are also available at higher rates.
Q: Are there any discounts available for parking at Universal Studios Orlando?
A: Yes, there are some discounts available for parking. Annual passholders can purchase discounted parking vouchers, while Florida residents can save on parking by purchasing a multi-day ticket package.
Q: Is there a shuttle service available from the parking lot to the park entrance?
A: No, there is no shuttle service available from the parking lot to the park entrance. However, there are moving sidewalks and escalators available to make the walk to the park entrance more comfortable.
Q: Is RV parking available at Universal Studios Orlando?
A: Yes, RV parking is available in a designated lot at Universal Studios Orlando. However, the RV parking lot is not equipped with hookups or dump stations.
Q: Are there any restrictions on the type of vehicles allowed in the parking lot?
A: Yes, there are some restrictions on the type of vehicles allowed in the parking lot. Oversized vehicles such as buses, trailers, and RVs are not permitted in the general parking lot. They must park in the designated oversized vehicle parking area.
Q: Is there a limit on the amount of time I can park at Universal Studios Orlando?
A: No, there is no limit on the amount of time you can park at Universal Studios Orlando. However, overnight parking is not allowed in the general parking lot.
Do the Universal Orlando parking rates change?
Yes, the rates will occasionally go up due to annual price increases, but not due to special events.
Is There Free Parking at Universal?
Are you wondering how you can avoid paying for Universal Orlando parking?
There is no free parking near Universal Orlando.
If you go after 6 p.m. or see a matinee film screening, you may be able to park for free.
When is the Best Time To Visit Universal Orlando?
Many people argue over when the best time to visit Universal Orlando is. Some people say that the best time is during the winter, while others argue that summer is the best time to go.
However, the best time to visit Universal Orlando really depends on what you are looking for. If you want to avoid large crowds, then the best time to visit is during the week in September or October.
The weather is also very pleasant during these months. However, if you are looking for special events, then you should visit Universal Orlando during the holidays. Christmas and Halloween are especially popular times to visit, as the park holds special events and activities during these times.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Universal Orlando depends on your personal preferences.
Universal Parking Tips
Here are a few general tips to keep in mind when parking at Universal Studios Orlando:
-Arrive early. The closer it gets to the park opening time, the more crowded the parking lot will be.
-Follow the signs. There are plenty of signs leading up to the parking garages, so just follow them, and you’ll be fine.
-Have your ticket ready. You’ll need to show your ticket in order to enter the parking garage, so have it ready to go.
-Keep your parking receipt handy in case you need to leave and come back in.
-Download the Universal Orlando app. This can come in handy for a variety of things, including finding your car in the parking garage.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be sure to have a smooth experience when parking at Universal Studios Orlando!
We’ve got you covered if you’re looking for parking information at Universal Orlando Resort.
We reviewed all the details on pricing, where to park, and how to get around the resort once you’re there.
Keep this post handy as your guide to parking at Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure! Have a magical day!