Port Canaveral or Universal parks?

Question

Would you send two nights in Port Canaveral (prior to cruise) or spend two nights at Universal?

I'm travelling solo with my 4 year old who loves the rides and Marvel/Minions so thought that might be a nice place to visit.

Haven't looked into which parks would be best to visit yet. Visiting mid August.

Do you think it would be easy to get an Uber from Universal to the Port on Sunday morning?

I didn't have much planned if I was staying at Port Canaveral. I wanted to see the manatees but I can do that on the day we disembark the ship. We're also visiting Kennedy Space Centre.

Answer

Deciding between spending two nights in Port Canaveral or at Universal Studios depends on your priorities, especially traveling solo with a 4-year-old who enjoys rides and characters like Marvel and Minions.

Option 1: Stay at Universal Orlando

Staying at Universal gives you easy access to both Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. This is ideal for your child if rides and character experiences are a priority.

Rides and Attractions: Universal Studios has kid-friendly rides like Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, Woody Woodpecker’s KidZone, and the interactive play areas. Islands of Adventure has Seuss Landing, which is perfect for younger children.
Convenience: Staying on-site may allow early park admission and reduced walking distances, which is helpful when managing a 4-year-old.
Marvel Experiences: Islands of Adventure has attractions featuring Spider-Man and other Marvel heroes, though some rides have height restrictions (many are suitable for your child’s height).

Option 2: Stay at Port Canaveral

This is more relaxed and convenient for your cruise departure, but you will have fewer entertainment options for a young child. Port Canaveral area has limited activities compared to Orlando.

Manatees and Nature: While manatees are a highlight, visiting them might be better on the day of cruise disembarkation if you’re planning a tight schedule before departure.
Beach or Park Time: You could explore nearby Cocoa Beach or local parks, but activities may be more limited for a 4-year-old.
Transportation: Less hassle for early morning boarding since you’re already near the cruise terminal.

Transportation Considerations:

Uber or Lyft from Universal to Port Canaveral is generally easy and takes about 45–60 minutes, but prices can surge, especially on Sunday mornings during cruise departures.
Plan extra time for traffic, security, and check-in at the port to avoid stress.
Some Universal hotels offer shuttle services, but these typically go to the parks rather than the cruise port, so a rideshare will be needed.

Recommendation:

If your main goal is a fun experience for your 4-year-old with rides, characters, and themed areas, staying at Universal Orlando for two nights is likely the better choice. You’ll have plenty to do, and transportation to the port is manageable with an Uber or Lyft, just allow extra time. Staying at Port Canaveral is more convenient for the cruise itself but offers fewer activities for young children prior to departure.