Disney or Universal Resort?

Question

I’m planning a trip to Orlando in around mid January for about 15 days and I’m looking to visit both Universal And Disney as I’m a fan of both and wanted to know what would be the ideal resort choice for visiting both places?

Appreciate all information that you guys have and from past traveler's who have been to both. Also I’m a Solo traveler so would love to hear from other possible solo traveler's.

Thank you in advance :)

Answer

It sounds like you're planning an exciting trip to Orlando with plans to visit both Disney and Universal! Since you're a solo traveler and want to explore both resorts, there are several resort options that could offer the convenience and experience you're looking for. Below are a few suggestions based on proximity, amenities, and ease of transportation between both parks:

If you're looking for a resort that offers the best balance for visiting both Disney and Universal, here are some great options:

Walt Disney World Resorts – Staying at a Disney resort will give you the advantage of Disney's magic and excellent transportation, including free buses, boats, and monorails to all of Disney's parks, including Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and Disney's Hollywood Studios. The Disney resorts are a great choice if you’re a fan of Disney's immersive experience and enjoy the convenience of being on Disney property. While you’ll have easy access to Disney parks, getting to Universal will require a short drive or shuttle ride. Some good options include:
- Disney's Contemporary Resort – Close to Magic Kingdom and offers the monorail right at the hotel, making it easy to get to Disney parks. This would require about a 20-minute drive to Universal.
- Disney's Polynesian Village Resort – Offers a great tropical feel and direct access to the Magic Kingdom via the monorail. A short drive to Universal.
- Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa – Offers luxury and excellent access to Magic Kingdom and other parks, though you’ll need to drive or use a shuttle to reach Universal.
Universal Orlando Resorts – Universal's resorts have a more modern, vibrant feel, and staying here gives you easy access to both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. Additionally, if you stay at one of the premier resorts, you’ll get the benefit of early park access and free express passes for Universal parks. They are also more centrally located to Universal, so transportation to Disney parks will take about 20-30 minutes by car or shuttle. Great options include:
- Hard Rock Hotel – If you’re a fan of the music scene, this is a fun option. It’s one of Universal’s deluxe resorts and offers walking distance to both theme parks.
- Loews Sapphire Falls Resort – A beautiful resort with great amenities and a water taxi that will take you to the Universal parks. A slightly more affordable option compared to Hard Rock Hotel.
- Loews Royal Pacific Resort – Another excellent choice for a deluxe Universal experience, with easy access to both parks and perks like Express Passes included.
Third-Party Hotels – If you’re looking to save a little money but still have easy access to both Disney and Universal, consider staying at a third-party hotel near both resorts. Many of these hotels offer free shuttles to the parks and have a more affordable rate. A few to consider include:
- Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek – Located near Disney and offers free shuttles to both Disney and Universal. It has a beautiful pool and great amenities for a solo traveler.
- Holiday Inn Resort Orlando Suites – Waterpark – A more budget-friendly option, located near Disney and offers shuttle service to both Universal and Disney parks. Great for families but also comfortable for solo travelers.

As a solo traveler, staying near Disney or Universal also offers convenience, but it really depends on your preference for theming and park access. Disney resorts give you that immersive Disney experience, while Universal resorts provide a bit more modern flair and are ideal if you're a fan of the Harry Potter franchise or the thrilling rides at Universal Studios. If you're planning to spend equal time at both parks, I recommend staying somewhere central to both, like one of the hotels mentioned above.

In terms of transportation, if you choose a Disney resort, the transportation is very convenient for getting to Disney parks, but you’ll need to use a car or a paid shuttle to reach Universal. Universal resorts offer similar benefits within Universal’s own parks and quick access to Disney by car. Either way, renting a car might be helpful for the flexibility of getting to both resorts, though shuttle services are often available too.

Finally, make sure to check if there are any solo traveler discounts or packages, and remember to book park tickets in advance as both Disney and Universal can be crowded, especially in mid-January!

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