Total Universal Noob - Would Love Suggestions for January 2024 Trip

[eacatwork]

Hi friends!

My goddaughter/niece turns 11 in January 2024. I introduced her to Harry Potter several years ago during one of her annual summer visits. We read the books at bedtime when she's visiting and have watched all of the movies. I decided years ago that - much like wizards and witches are invited to attend Hogwarts when they turn 11 - I would take Mallorie to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter (and all the other Universal goodness) when she turns 11.

We're a year out and I. KNOW. NOTHING. about Universal.

Well, strike that - I do know that if you stay at one of three of their top resorts, you get the express pass. So there's that! And that's probably what we'll do, since this is a grand celebration (and probably the only time we'll ever go).

But I would love to hear recommendations from seasoned visitors, especially how long we should plan to stay to be able to do everything (and do it well).

I appreciate any and all insights!

 

[georgina]

Hi friends!

My goddaughter/niece turns 11 in January 2024. I introduced her to Harry Potter several years ago during one of her annual summer visits. We read the books at bedtime when she's visiting and have watched all of the movies. I decided years ago that - much like wizards and witches are invited to attend Hogwarts when they turn 11 - I would take Mallorie to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter (and all the other Universal goodness) when she turns 11.

We're a year out and I. KNOW. NOTHING. about Universal.

Well, strike that - I do know that if you stay at one of three of their top resorts, you get the express pass. So there's that! And that's probably what we'll do, since this is a grand celebration (and probably the only time we'll ever go).

But I would love to hear recommendations from seasoned visitors, especially how long we should plan to stay to be able to do everything (and do it well).

I appreciate any and all insights!

A few things - January tends to be lower crowds and shorter hours. (longer hours on weekends) Three days with express pass should be enough. Generally, the sooner you book the resort, the lower the price. Not sure when in January you are going, rates look high to me even now, but weekdays are usually less than weekend nights. You need the park-to-park ticket to ride the Hogwarts Express, a must for a Potter fan. Universal is currently running a buy 2 days get 2 days free promo good until March 2, 2023. They may have a similar ticket promo for next Jan. Oh, and they usually have a large Christian music festival (Rock the Universe) in Jan, this year it is the last weekend, which could affect crowds and hours at the Studios side.

Sounds like a lot of fun! My DD and I made a special trip in 2010, the summer Hogsmeade opened. She was 15 and we had a blast.

 

[Kit Jackson]

If you would rather have a guidebook than look at websites/blogs/vlogs, this book is fantastic.
https://www.amazon.com/Unofficial-Guide-Universal-Orlando-Guides/dp/1628091355

I would say 3 to 4 days is a great length. It gives you enough time to see everything without having to rush, and gives you a time cushion in case something is down for a bit. It also lets you sleep in, or take a mid afternoon break if you do not want to do the parks from open to close.

Even though you will have ExpressPass, do the regular line for Forbidden Journey because it takes you through parts of the castle that the ExpressLine skips.

Unless one of you is super into the Fast and the Furious Franchise, skip the ride. It's a bit of a dissapointment.

To help you figure out what else to ride and what to skip, think about any issues/sensitivities relating to roller coasters, drops, or motion simulators. Figuring out where you on the spectrum of absolute ride coward to total thrill seeker will help make sure you have a more enjoyable trip. I'm a bit of a ride coward but have always had a fantastic time at Universal Orlando.

 

[georgina]

Oh yes, agree about Forbidden Journey. So much to see that people just zoom by! The Mirror of Erised, the gryffin at the entrance to Dumbledore's office, and the Fat Lady at the entrance to the Gryffindor common room. Do the regular line at least once, it is often a low wait in the morning and evenings. I am one of the people who stops in several places to listen and just let the line pass me by. The talking portraits go on for quite a while, Dumbledore talks in his office for at least 5 minutes, then Harry, Ron, and Hermione talk in the Defense against the dark arts classroom.

check this out - https://blog.discoveruniversal.com/...r-fans-will-appreciate-about-hogwarts-castle/

 

[AJA]

If you are only doing the two main parks then I suggest 3 days. I’m sure she will want to do all the magic windows and just have plenty of time to explore the Harry Potter areas in both parks. Three days gives you plenty of time to enjoy everything.