need help for US trip

[heartofdisney]

Hi. My family is planning a trip to Disney in January,and we decided to take a few days we originally planned to spend in the Disney parks and go to Universal and Sea World as well. We have never been to Sea World,and were at Universal only once,back in 1997 when my kids were alot younger then.So I am considering myself a newbie there,and I want my family to have an awesome time at US and Sea World ,so I am hoping for advice about dining places and would appreciate any helpful tips as well. Our non Disney part of the trip will be from Jan 7th - 11th.
Is Sea World even worth going to,as I have heard some dissapointing reviews who was just recently there. We are booked at Hawthorn Suites,but does US have "codes" like Disney does for thier on site hotels? Is there any way I can get a good deal for an onsite hotel? And my last question would be about the front of the line pass.If we do stay at Hawthorn Suites as planned, we would need to buy that pass. Do you think a front of the line pass would be necessary for January? Would it be worthwhile to just book at the onsite hotels then to get thier free pass then,rather then pay the extra money to get the express pass? I know..lots of questions,but I feel like when I go to Disney,I know so much more..and now I feel like i need that sort of imfo going to US as well! Thanks! Lisa

 

[Metro West]

January is not generally busy so I don't think it would be worth it spend the extra money for an onsite hotel if you already have a hotel in mind. As far as the onsite hotels go, you might want to check AAA and see what their rate is for that time period.

I think your family would really enjoy Universal and Sea World. Make sure you can allow two days for Universal and a full day for Sea World.

 

[heartofdisney]

January is not generally busy so I don't think it would be worth it spend the extra money for an onsite hotel if you already have a hotel in mind. As far as the onsite hotels go, you might want to check AAA and see what their rate is for that time period.

I think your family would really enjoy Universal and Sea World. Make sure you can allow two days for Universal and a full day for Sea World.

Thank you so much for your advice.It is very helpful. As a Disney fan,I am actually finding myself becomming excited to check out the other Orlando parks,and because my daughters are older,I know they will love Universal Studios.

 

[Planogirl]

I can't comment on that particular Sea World since we just go to the one in Texas. I do love our local edition though.

As for the Universal hotels, it is hard to get a discount! You might want to check AAA like already mentioned and look at a few of the online travel websites such as Expedia or Travelocity. We did get a good deal once but it was 3-4 years ago. Loew's Hotels are just expensive but they are definitely luxurious.

I agree that January shouldn't be too busy but just follow the usual rules of touring: hit the big attractions early or late and if you don't want to hassle with dining in the parks, be sure to consider lunch in Citywalk. Lots of good places there and never crowded at lunchtime!

 

[damo]

You may be able to get a really fantastic deal for mid January. I would book anything for a bit yet. If you are staying more than three days, a supersave rate can come up for you. You don't need any special codes. If you purchase one annual pass, you can try the code APH (you don't need to have the pass before booking, just for checking in). You can also try calling AAA for their rates. None of these rates are available yet I don't believe.