First weekend February 2015

[Shannon84]

We are visiting Universal and staying at Cabana Bay 2/6/15 to 2/9/15. We are going to the parks on the weekend days, I know weekdays are slower but thats just what we can do with our time off of work, etc. Do you think I need an express pass for two adults that weekend? We are avid Disney vacationers so this is our first time visiting Universal in over 10 years and obviously a lot as changed. Also any tips or advice for newbies totally welcome and appreciated!!

 

[tstidm1]

We are visiting Universal and staying at Cabana Bay 2/6/15 to 2/9/15. We are going to the parks on the weekend days, I know weekdays are slower but thats just what we can do with our time off of work, etc. Do you think I need an express pass for two adults that weekend? We are avid Disney vacationers so this is our first time visiting Universal in over 10 years and obviously a lot as changed. Also any tips or advice for newbies totally welcome and appreciated!!

Thinking about the exact same days for Universal as well. Everything I've heard if it's that time of year, you don't need Express Passes. Even so, the smart things you do with WDW touring can easily apply to Universal Orlando. They are:

-Use the Early Park Admission to see Diagon Alley at USF.
-Be at the park for Rope Drop any other day during your trip. That means 30 minutes before Park opening that time of year.
-Take a two hour or so break either for a leisurely lunch at CityWalk or just a break in the pool at Cabana Bay.
-Come back after 3 PM to enjoy lesser crowds.
-Have a touring plan for which attractions you want to see. For me, it's a list of what I want to see the most. For you, it may be more detailed.

Also remember that time of year, you will probably be facing 7 PM or 8 PM closings. You may also be having on the 7th Mardi Gras at Universal Orlando with a Parade, New Orleans style food and concerts. If your not into the act, go see the Parade and have dinner with New Orleans food, but go do the rest of the park the last couple of hours before closing. You will encounter lesser crowds than in the rest of the park during those hours.

Here's hoping this helps you in planning the trip.

 

[damo]

If you find lines are too long you can use single rider lines. That will save you lots of time. Express passes are available IN the parks, so don't buy anything until you are sure you really want them.

 

[macraven]

Mardi Gras started on Feb 8th this year, so it could possibly start on the weekend you are there in 2015.

i read that UO will give out info at the beginning of the year on the line up and events.

you could find crowds at the studios if opening date happens when you are there.
the big activity would be in the evening, not in the day time.

do the studios in the early part of the day then switch to IOA if that weekend you are there incurs crowds.