Universal 101: How do I avoid long lines and crowds at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure?

July 16, 11:20 AMOrlando Theme Parks ExaminerBarbara Nefer

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The Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure theme parks can draw big crowds during the summer and holiday seasons. Fortunately, there are many ways you can minimize your wait, even at the busiest times of the year. Here are several strategies:

1) Stay at an onsite hotel at the Universal Orlando Resort. There are three onsite hotels, and guests at all three get unlimited use of the Express lines. Even if you just stay for one night, each member of your party will be able to use the Express lines for two days (check-in and check-out day). Click here for more information on the hotel perks. The Express lines are typically significantly shorter than the regular lines. Click here. for more information. If you don't want to stay onsite, you can purchase a one-time or unlimited Express pass. Click here to learn more about this option.

2) Arrive before park opening. The Universal theme parks often open a little early in the busy season, and lines tend to be minimal during the first hour or two. Ride the most popular rides during this period, then go to the less popular ones when the crowd arrives.

3) Use single rider lines. Universal offers this on several rides, such as Men in Black and the Incredible Hulk roller coaster (pictured above right). Members of your party will have to ride separately, but you can get on the ride much more quickly. Click here for more details.

4) Stay late. Orlando summers are brutal, so people who come to the theme parks early are often exhausted as the day draws to an end. Pace yourself early on so you will be able to stay later and take advantage of the disappearing crowds. Click here for more information about this strategy.

If you are a local or visit Universal frequently, you might want to consider getting a Premier pass. It offers unlimited Express after 4 p.m., free water, free Halloween Horror Nights tickets, and much more. Click here for more information. To learn about how you can maximize your time by hopping between the two Universal theme parks, click here.

Want to read my Disney World 101 article on avoiding lines at Disney World? Click here. To read more of my articles, click here.