US/IOA tips

[sithlord]

So we went to IOA two years ago, but I hear there's been an expansion. Planning to go to US, but wondering if it's worth going to IOA again. Trying to go on a budget. What's your suggestions, how many days, where to stay?

 

[RMulieri]

The studios had the expansion.IOA has not other than adding the train station for the Hogwarts express ( which you need a Park to PArk ticket to ride).

 

[wookiebeck]

There are lots of variables in your question. We will try to answer as best we can, however, your budget and value you get out of it will be your viewpoint.

For instance, a Four-day ticket is much less when you look at the per day cost. Or do you have only one day you are trying to fit into your time in Orlando?

You said you went to IOA in 2012. Have you ever done US? If not, you can easily spend an entire day there (the new HP expansion is awesome).

Many people try for two-day tix and do one park per day. They want you to spend the extra $ to get park-to-park tix. IMHO it is worth it for the freedom of going into IOA and doing your favorites over again. It also lets you ride Hogwarts Express.

Reply back with some other specifics about your trip (kids? ages? # of days) and we can all help with greater detail.

 

[johde]

I'm going to agree with the previous poster that there are a lot of variables to consider. Depending on when you're going, there could be several "penny wise, pound foolish" decisions. For example, saving money and staying offsite over paying extra for a deluxe resort with Express Pass included. If you're going during a moderately busy time, you may be better off shortening your visit by a day (say 4 days to 3 days) and staying at a deluxe over staying offsite. If you're waiting 30-40 minutes for each rides compared to under 10, you'll get more done in 3 days with express than 4 days without. If crowds are expected to be light though, you can probably get by with staying offsite.

The one suggestion I can make is don't complete discount at Table Service Restaurants. There are several "deals" to be had here especially compared to the prices of the themed Counter Service restaurants.

For Example:
Confisico Classic Burger and Fries $9.99/ Crusty Burger and Fries $9.99
Guinness & Beef Stew Finnegan's $11.99/ Beef Lamb, and Guinness Stew Leaky Cauldron $12.99