2nd Week of January?

[03Poohmom]

We are trying to decide between WDW & Universal for our 2nd week of January trip. We've been to both before, but it's been a while. Our kids are now adults in their 20's with boyfriends coming (7 of us). We are planning to stay in a condo off-site (need the space). We are flying, but plan to rent a van.

I believe this is a slower time to go, but have a few questions...
Do many rides close for refurbishing during this time (I know WDW does this)? Is there a site that shows this schedule?
Is Uber reasonable to the Vista Cay condo area which is about 10 minutes (I'm sure we will want to split up at times)?
Will we regret not getting the front of the line passes?
Is there a meal plan that is worth it?

Thanks!

 

[sandam1]

We were at Universal this past year from January 9-14.

- The only ride that was down for refurb was Jurassic Park.
- Universal refurbs (and their general hours of operations, shows, etc.) tend to come out late in the game and can/will change. So don't be surprised if this happens. Just roll with it.
- I was surprised at how busy the park was for that time of year, but the crowds were also very uneven. Some days, some rides were stupid busy and other times, the same ride was a 5 minute wait. If you have 4 days+, I would definitely skip the EP. For 3 days, it would be a toss-up. If you do go without the EP, plan on arriving at the gate (not at the parking lot) at least 30 minutes before opening and make use of the early morning hours. Also, single rider lines are your best friend.
- Very rarely is the meal plan worth it for me. You can save a few bucks at times, but I tend to drink water more than anything else so the drink is a waste.

I was there for Disney's marathon weekend (1/9-12 next year), which bumps the crowd level for everything in Orlando so just keep that in the back of your mind when planning your trip.

 

[Disxuni]

1. https://touringplans.com/universal-orlando/closures (Sometimes Dudley Do Right closes due to winter season)
2. Someone else will have to answer that question, especially since it depends on how many times you plan on going back and forth to the park to the condo.
3. You won't need front of the line passes, as it's the slower part of the season. Just make sure to get for the opening of the park for Hagrid's Coaster (if interested). Also, if you can try to go to the parks on weekdays, rather than weekends. The more at the beginning of the week the lower of crowds.
4. There most inexpensive is $23.99, which is a great deal if you know how to order the most bang for your buck.

For a list of the dining plans and what is included click on the link below:
https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/us/tickets-packages/universal-orlando-dining-plan/index.html

 

[Sue M]

I can’t speak for crowds as I haven’t been to Universal in January. But I’m looking at the Quick Service meal plan for our trip, I’ll probably get it some days, that we are having the most expensive meal options, it is worth it. If you’re getting entrees over $16, and a $7 snack you’ve already paid for it. Then the beverages are free. You won’t save huge amounts but can be a small savings. And you can decide each day if you want it. Unlike WDW, you aren’t locked into a plan for entire stay.

 

[EmJ]

I can’t speak for crowds as I haven’t been to Universal in January. But I’m looking at the Quick Service meal plan for our trip, I’ll probably get it some days, that we are having the most expensive meal options, it is worth it. If you’re getting entrees over $16, and a $7 snack you’ve already paid for it. Then the beverages are free. You won’t save huge amounts but can be a small savings. And you can decide each day if you want it. Unlike WDW, you aren’t locked into a plan for entire stay.

Can I ask how they track whether you have the meal plan? For example, is it a separate card, wristband, added to your room key, etc.?

 

[Sue M]

Can I ask how they track whether you have the meal plan? For example, is it a separate card, wristband, added to your room key, etc.?

It’s a separate card.