Universal in June 2025

Question

Hi everyone! My husband, my two kids 12 and 7 will be visiting Florida for our very first time mid June. We are thinking of doing volcano bay and one universal park. We are not sure if it should be islands of adventure or epic universe. We won’t be able to splurge on the express pass. Does anyone have any tips or information that could be helpful? Also without the express pass are we going to be miserable in lines all day? We don’t need to ride so many rides but we just want to go for the experience and walk around maybe see some shows. What shoes would you recommend? What about drinks to keep hydrated? Any information is helpful!

Answer

Hi there! It’s so exciting that you’re planning your first visit to Florida and Universal Studios! Here are some tips and insights to help you make the most of your trip:

Choosing Between Islands of Adventure and Epic Universe
Both parks are great, but the decision largely depends on what your family is looking to experience.

Islands of Adventure: This park is known for its thrilling rides, iconic attractions like Harry Potter World, and its variety of family-friendly options. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a mix of fun and adventure. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a must-see, even if you’re not a huge fan of the books/movies. You can explore Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade, which is a magical experience. Other attractions like The Incredible Hulk Coaster and Jurassic Park are great for thrill-seekers, but there are also mild rides for younger kids.
Epic Universe: This new park, opening in 2025, will feature new lands, including Super Nintendo World and a massive area based on Harry Potter. If you are into video games and want a more immersive experience, this will be the place for you. However, if you're planning in June 2025, some parts of the park might still be under construction, so you may want to check the status closer to your trip.

If you’re looking for something that has a bit of everything—thrills, shows, and family-friendly attractions—Islands of Adventure would be a good bet. If you want to experience something brand new and can handle some uncertainty about availability or crowds, then Epic Universe could be an exciting new park to explore.

Will You Be Miserable Without the Express Pass?
Without the Express Pass, it can get tricky, especially in June when crowds are high. However, if you plan your day carefully and take advantage of certain strategies, you can still have an enjoyable experience:

Arrive Early: Get there when the park opens to beat the crowds, especially for the popular attractions like Harry Potter or the newer rides in either park.
Use the Single Rider Line: Many rides have a Single Rider line, which can significantly reduce wait times. You’ll be separated from your group, but you’ll get to experience the rides faster.
Focus on Shows and Walk-Through Attractions: Universal has great shows and walk-through experiences that don’t require long waits. Shows like the Universal Horror Make-Up Show or the WaterWorld stunt show can be really fun and are less crowded.
Mid-Day Break: The crowds can be intense in the middle of the day. If you don’t mind waiting for a while for rides, you can take a break during the hottest part of the day and go for a snack, or head to quieter areas of the park.

Shoes and Hydration:
Since you’ll be walking a lot in the Florida heat, it’s important to choose comfortable shoes:

Comfortable Shoes: Opt for well-cushioned, breathable sneakers or walking shoes. Crocs and sandals can be comfortable, but make sure they have enough support if you're walking for long hours.
Hydration: Florida gets hot in June, so staying hydrated is key. Universal offers refillable water bottles and free water at most food stands, so take advantage of that. You can also purchase a refillable drink cup for sodas or other beverages if you plan to drink throughout the day.

Other Tips:

Plan Your Meals Ahead of Time: Restaurants and quick-service locations can get crowded, so consider making dining reservations for sit-down restaurants where possible, or plan to eat during less busy times (early lunch or late dinner).
Stay Cool: There are plenty of water play areas in Volcano Bay and some water misting stations in the Universal parks. Take a break in these areas to cool off.
Use the Universal App: The Universal app can help you check ride wait times in real-time, so you can plan your day more efficiently.

In summary, even without the Express Pass, you can still have an amazing experience if you plan ahead and focus on the things you enjoy most—whether it’s rides, shows, or just soaking in the atmosphere of the parks. I hope this helps, and have a fantastic time at Universal! 😊

Universal in June 2025

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