Going to Universal Jan 1-2 - Stay off-site or on-site?

[joi]

We're going to Universal on Jan 1st and Jan 2nd. This is our second trip in 2 years and we've ridden most rides except for Hollywood Rip Rockit Ride...so we're looking to enjoy our favorites as well spend a good deal of time at WWoHP! We know it's going to be busy so we can't just go with the regular tickets.

The question I had was should we stay on-site or off-site? I can get a good rate through a relative (Loews employee) for the Portofino Bay, but it would still run us around $350 for both days. The alternative is to either buy the VIP Park to Park tickets or make do with the Express Plus Pass.

My question is should we stay onsite (with the early entry and unlimited express), or stay off-site and get the Express Plus passes instead?

 

[Metro West]

We're going to Universal on Jan 1st and Jan 2nd. This is our second trip in 2 years and we've ridden most rides except for Hollywood Rip Rockit Ride...so we're looking to enjoy our favorites as well spend a good deal of time at WWoHP! We know it's going to be busy so we can't just go with the regular tickets.

The question I had was should we stay on-site or off-site? I can get a good rate through a relative (Loews employee) for the Portofino Bay, but it would still run us around $350 for both days. The alternative is to either buy the VIP Park to Park tickets or make do with the Express Plus Pass.

My question is should we stay onsite (with the early entry and unlimited express), or stay off-site and get the Express Plus passes instead?

If you are going to spend your time in WWoHP, I would take advantage of the good rate and stay onsite. You will get early entry and unlimited Express. During holiday time it's definitely worth it.

 

[jack hannah bananah]

I would stay on site. The room rates are reasonable, and you get a lot of perks - early entry to WWHP is certainly worth it!
Plus you get front of the line access (similar to Fast Passes) all day.

 

[joi]

I would stay on site. The room rates are reasonable, and you get a lot of perks - early entry to WWHP is certainly worth it!
Plus you get front of the line access (similar to Fast Passes) all day.

Thanks, I've been reading about the advantages of the early entry. The FOTL will come in handy when it's very busy!

I'm just wondering if it's the best course of action. We're staying in Orlando till Jan 11th and were planning on spending the remaining days at WDW. We could just buy VIP tickets and enjoy FOTL access and flexibility instead.

 

[gibbersome]

I'm just wondering if it's the best course of action. We're staying in Orlando till Jan 11th and were planning on spending the remaining days at WDW. We could just buy VIP tickets and enjoy FOTL access and flexibility instead.

Could you switch your schedule around to see WWOHP at the end of your vacation? The crowds would be much lower.