Universal & 4 Teens - Suggestions, please!

[tekteacher]

Going to Universal next week. We're just going to Orlando for the day, so we won't be staying on-site. Is it worth it to buy the fast pass for rides? Obviously, we want to get the most for our $ w/o standing in line all day. I noticed someone mentioned riding the rides several times in a row. What is the best kept secret in doing that? Any suggestions? Thanks in advance for your help. Are there any attractions that we should ABSOLUTELY not miss?

 

[phamton]

The only way to ride the rides several times in a row is with the FOTL pass for onsite hotel guests. The express pass plus booklet cost $40 plus tax per person per park and only allows you one time per ride. Sometimes, the ride attendant won't scan your pass and you could use it twice but don't count on it.

There are free express passes from the kiosks near each ride that work like Disney's fast pass. You can also utilize the single rider lines. Be at the gates at 8:30 and hit the major rides first before the crowds get there at 11:00 AM.

 

[tekteacher]

Thanks for the helpful info., but if you'll excuse my ignorance...what is a "kiosk?"

 

[phamton]

Thanks for the helpful info., but if you'll excuse my ignorance...what is a "kiosk?"

They are the little booths that house the express pass machines. They look almost like Disney's fastpass machines except they have a screen. The screen shows two different return times for you to choose from instead of just spitting out one time like Disney's fastpass. You insert your pass and pick a return time that suits your party.

Here's an article on how to get to the front of the lines:

Click here

 

[IMGONNABE40!]

Not that you asked, but--with 4 teens, I would go to IOA instead of US. I know, none of my business!

 

[tekteacher]

Phamton, thanks for the article...very helpful!

40- why do you say that? We just chose US based on the Universal website - looked at the attractions & made our choice...We're not neccessarily committed to that park...We're open to suggestions. The only problem is that 3 of the teens aren't rollercoaster lovers; what are your thoughts?

 

[phamton]

I would get the 1 day/2 park ticket. It is only $10 more. Then you can hit all the rides in both parks that you are interested in. You may very well prefer Universal but how would you know unless you could see Islands of Adventure?

 

[MrsMud]

Tekteacher:

How many of you are there total, 5? Before you consider buying the Express passes which would run you about $200, you might look into getting a room at the RPR, even though you're not staying. It would get you all unlimited FOTL, and a nice place to change out of wet clothes/ etc. If you are going on a weekday, you might be able to find a room cheaper than $200. Just a thought.