Universal Studio/Islands Of Adventure during X-mas time

[DisneyDiva86]

Hey guys,
I’m going to USF/IoA during X-mas time which I know is one of the busy time of the year. I was in Orlando back in 2010 during the same time and we went to Disney and it was a nightmare. I felt like I miss out on the most of my Disney experience because it was so busy and and I know that there are two different places ,but I was wondering if anyone has any tips or tricks to help us make the most of our time at USF/IoA.

 

[Metro West]

Hey guys,
I’m going to USF/IoA during X-mas time which I know is one of the busy time of the year. I was in Orlando back in 2010 during the same time and we went to Disney and it was a nightmare. I felt like I miss out on the most of my Disney experience because it was so busy and and I know that there are two different places ,but I was wondering if anyone has any tips or tricks to help us make the most of our time at USF/IoA.

Unfortunately that is the busiest week of the year for all local parks so your 2010 experience at Disney will be repeated at Universal this year. I've been to Disney and Universal during that week and all I can say is...never again! The only tip I can give you for travel that week is to pack your patience. Everything will be wall to wall so be prepared to wait a lot.

 

[RMulieri]

Agree with Metro..ALL Orlando attractions are PACKED that week.Universal is no different and in fact saw park closures to capacity that week last year.Pack your patience if you are going and try it stayonsite for the Resort guest express pass that will cut your wait in line considerably

 

[rcraw45425]

We were at US/IOA from Dec 26-29 in 2010. Our older daughters marching band was performing in the Champs Bowl and also in the Macy's Parade at US. They stayed at the Crowned Plaza, I booked myself, DH and younger non marching DD club level at RPR. That was our only saving grace. That was the year that temps plunged into the low 30s, it was miserable, yet still crowded. DD and I bundled up like the Michelin Man to do EE for Harry Potter. That was the only time we managed to ride. IOA closed to capacity daily by noon, even with the frigid temps. The parks are decorated nicely and the arcade is great. I don't regret doing it, but as others mentioned, be prepared and bring your patient pills. I also urge you to stay onsite. Only a and full of our band kids were able to ride WWOHP due to the three hour lines. This year both girls will march the Outback Bowl in Tampa on New Years Day. Our new young band director thinks they can ride over and "do " Disney one afternoon. Needless to say, a few of us seasoned Disney parents think he's on crack!

 

[DisneyDiva86]

WOW thanks for all the great info It was very useful

 

[Metro West]

WOW thanks for all the great info It was very usefully

I wish we had better news for you but during holiday time.

 

[macraven]

if you stay onsite, it would give you an edge.


but, you will still have lines to face for rides and shows using the express lines.

 

[badandy]

Hey guys,
I’m going to USF/IoA during X-mas time which I know is one of the busy time of the year. I was in Orlando back in 2010 during the same time and we went to Disney and it was a nightmare. I felt like I miss out on the most of my Disney experience because it was so busy and and I know that there are two different places ,but I was wondering if anyone has any tips or tricks to help us make the most of our time at USF/IoA.

Start early. Stay onsite. Wear comfy shoes. Patience is key.

I went last year the weekend before Christmas and it was a ghost town. But the week after is another story.