Newbie to Universal - need advice

[czycropper]

We're going the end of June for a couple days for the very first time, any advice is greatly appreciated it, but I do have a few questions:

1. Should we spend the $$ and stay at one of the Universal hotels? is it worth it?

2. I'm sure it's crowded at that time - I know that's an understatement so which park should be seen first - we'll be there Friday & Saturday

3. Are the character meals worth it? If so, what are they? When do I need to reserve? My DDs are 8 & 10.

Any other hints are greatly appreciated! We'll be in WDW till Thursday and then over to Universal so it will be a full week!

Thanks so much

 

[kellymonaghan]

1. Absolutely! But it ain't Motel 6. Check prices.

2. Forget about the crowds. If you're halfway normal, they'll seem huge whatever day you go. And if you're staying onsite, you'll have front of the line access anyway, so lines effectively don't exist. (That perk alone might help you get over any sticker shock on the room rates!)

3. Yes. I recommend the breakfast at Confisco in IOA. 407-224-4012. There are also character meals in the resort hotels on "select nights." Check with the hotel for the schedule during your stay.

Have fun!

 

[czycropper]

Kelly - thanks so much for answering. We're thinking of staying at Royal Pacific.

One other little question - is the meal plan worth buying? I always get the meal plan when we go to WDW since it ends up being much cheaper.

BTW - I'm getting your book since it has been highly recommended

 

[kirbsam]

i agree that staying on site, means it doesnt matter which day you do which park. in fact, you can probably do both parks plus redo all your favorites in those two days, if you stay on site.

 

[Ka-chow!]

Just visited in November. IOA seems to have OK counter service restaurants overall, but USO has a poorer rep. If I remember correctly, the DIS podcasters indicated the Universal mealplan was not worth it. CityWalk has some nice restaurants (Pastamore)

Yes, Definitely stay on site. For us, the less time in line with the kids was worth it.

If you have one, use your AAA card for a discount and a Lowes card for upgrades. And the $86 week long tickets are a bargain.