Calling All Experts!!

[Ltl Mermaid]

I have been to Universal Studios and IOA a few times and am going back in early December (the 3rd to be exact). I had a couple of questions:
-We are going to go to both parks during that same day, what are the park hours (generally) for that time of year?
-In order to hit most of the “must see” attractions, should I plan on buying the express pass, or will it be slow enough that the waits will be short?
-Like everyone else we are so excited about Harry Potter Land. Does anyone know if thos rides will take the Express Pass? Also, what type of restaurant with the 3 broomstick be? Sit down or quick?

Thanks sooooo much, and if you have any further suggestions on how to make our day great please let me know!

 

[damo]

Universal is usually very, very quiet the beginning of December. Not sure how different it will be this year with the new Harry Potter additions. No need to buy the express pass until you actually get in there and see if it is necessary. I doubt it will be.

We don't know what the scoop is with the express pass and Harry Potter yet.

Three Broomsticks will be a counter service restaurant.

 

[francie57]

The hours will eventually be posted on the Universal site. They aren't there yet though. As for buying the express pass, you may want to wait until you actually get to the park to see how busy they are. Who knows what will happen with HP opening. The rumors on here are that if you stay on-site you will get the new HP Forbidden Journey ride one time per day express. Not sure if it will be included in the express passes purchased at the parks. Most of this will be reported back after HP opens and Universal really lets people know what is going on.

 

[Metro West]

You can always check the website for last year's hours to get a general idea of what to expect. I doubt this year's hours will change a great deal. December is usually 9-6 or 9-7 with the exeception of Christmas time when the parks are open late.

The only time I would ever recommend purchasing the EP ahead of time is when you're going during a super busy season or holiday weekend. Early December has been busy...historically. I know that will probably change this year with the HP crowds but it shouldn't make that much of a difference.