1st Timer - December Hours?

[thewelts]

We are coming to Universal for our first trip (2 adults and child, age 11). We booked 2 nights at the Hard Rock Hotel for early entry on Sunday, December 13 and Monday, December 14 (We arrive late on Saturday evening 12/12).

How do park hours work? I was told that it is best to visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter first thing in the morning or at the end of the day.

Do the gates close at 7 PM or do the rides and attractions close at 7 PM?
Universal's Islands of Adventure Hours are 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Universal Studios Hours are 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM

What should our strategy be to maximize our time and experience with the Wizarding World of Harry Potter?

Thanks for your advice!

p.s. Is there anything special that we should do when we arrive on Saturday evening (around 7 PM) other than dinner?

 

[RMulieri]

If you are in line for a ride at 7pm, you will be allowed to ride.You cant enter a line at 7pm and ride.As for WWoHP , we do early entry the bulk of the time and then go over again about an hour before closing since it is so pretty to see at night

 

[HM]

On Saturday, if you get there early enough, you could do the Luau at RPR. Check out the times.
I think you may be arriving too late though. I'd suggest a game of Miniature golf at Citiwalk or watching the Movie at the pool, or going Bowling over at CBBR.

 

[thewelts]

On Saturday, if you get there early enough, you could do the Luau at RPR. Check out the times.
I think you may be arriving too late though. I'd suggest a game of Miniature golf at Citiwalk or watching the Movie at the pool, or going Bowling over at CBBR.

Thank you! I appreciate these suggestions.
I realized that waking at 7 AM will be rough the first morning (It will feel like 4 AM to us - pacific time) so we should probably try to get to bed early ;-)

 

[HM]

That will be tough....but you'll also be very excited and ready for your adventure, I'm sure.
Keurig coffee in the room or downstairs on the first floor cafe if necessary. (It's on the way out the door to the pool and to the walkway to US).