Complete Guide to Universal Studios for Adults 2023

Complete Guide to Universal Studios for Adults 2023

Complete Guide to Universal Studios for Adults 2023

This article is your complete guide to visiting Universal Studios for adults 2023! Because if you’re looking for a day (or days) of excitement, this resort has got you covered. In fact, because of all it has to offer, Universal Studios can seem like the best Orlando park for adults. Don’t know where to start? We’ve developed the ultimate Universal Studios cheat sheet to help you figure out the best things to do at Universal Studios for adults in 2023 and create your plans for your next visit.

And as Annual Passholders, we are adults that love going to Universal and can share all of the best tips and tricks for enjoying your time!  We happen to think that Universal is even the best theme park in Orlando for adults to visit in the first place! There is so much to do, like high-thrill attractions and even super spooky events like Halloween Horror Nights!

We hope you find this post helpful! Our goal at The Park Prodigy has always been to help you save time and money on your next Universal Orlando vacation!  If you are planning a trip to Universal Orlando, check out the latest deals on Universal Orlando vacation packages and our discounted Universal Orlando tickets, Universal Orlando vacation packages, and our discounted Universal Orlando tickets, including EARLY PARK ADMISSION. To the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!

So read on if you’re ready to learn everything you can about visiting Universal Studios for adults!

SPECIAL NOTE: If you need help picking the best time to visit Universal Orlando for your next vacation, check out our Universal crowd calendar!

 Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar

Which Universal Park is Best for Adults 2023?

In our opinion, the best Universal park for adults would have to be Islands of Adventure with the copious amount of thrill-rides available. But with that being said, Universal Resorts is comprised of Universal Studios, Universal’s Islands of Adventure, Volcano Bay, and CityWalk. From rides to entertainment to good eats and other experiences, there are many fun things to do at Universal Studios that it’s not as simple as just choosing the best Universal Park for adults in 2023.

Both parks have so many amazing rides and entertainment. It all depends on your preference and the type of mood you are in. Whether it’s riding the fast and wild roller coasters of Marvel Super Hero Island in Islands of Adventure or experiencing the crazy thrills of the Revenge of the Mummy ride in Universal Studios, there’s so much action to be explored.

Related post: Guide to Spending One Day at Universal Islands of Adventure

Islands of Adventure or Universal Studios for Adults?

If you’re wondering which Universal park is best for adults in 2023, it might not be easy to choose; however, we feel that Islands of Adventure is the best park at Universal. The main reason is that Islands of Adventure has two of the newest thrill rides at Universal Orlando in Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and thrill rides at Universal Orlando in Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and also the VelociCoaster.

We will also say to get a feel for the rides at each Universal Orlando park because the main point of your vacation is to figure out the best Universal Orlando park you will enjoy. It’s also important to ask yourself how many days you plan to spend in Universal to help come up with a game plan and a budget for your trip. It might not be as easy as it looks, as both parks have adult (alcoholic) beverages, which are extra bonus points!

However, the best park for adults visiting Universal Orlando with only one day would go in this order.

Best Universal Park for Adults 2023 – Ranked

1. Islands of Adventure: You can’t miss an opportunity to ride their newest ride Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure plus the latest addition of the Velocicoaster.
2. Universal Studios

But what if you must see both parks, is it possible to visit Universal and save a few bucks? Yes, absolutely! Like Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando theme park tickets now fluctuate based on the time of year you visit.

So one of the easiest ways for adults visiting Universal Orlando to pick the best time to visit is to compare the lowest Universal Orlando ticket prices. The cheaper the tickets the more likely it is that the parks won’t be as crowded during that time of year and you’ll get a great deal.

Related Page: Universal Early Park Admission Tickets

Best Universal Orlando Water Park for Adults 2023

Luckily this is an easy one as Universal Orlando only has one water park in Volcano Bay compared to the two water parks at Disney World. However we will say that even though this is the only option this is absolutely the best water park in all of Orlando for adults. The balance between amazing rides and also relaxation at Volcano Bay is unmatched.

Guests can also take advantage of some amazing Volcano Bay cabanas and premium seating if they are really looking for the ultimate experience. All in all we truly feel like Volcano bay is simply a must for adults visiting Universal Orlando. 

Related Page: Disney World Vs Universal Orlando for Adults 

Top Things to do Universal Studios Orlando 2023

If you plan on visiting both parks, we’ve got a break down of the best things to do at Universal Studios Florida for adults.

Universal Studios for Adults

Universal Studios Orlando adults in 2023 can enjoy bar hopping, as this park has many locations to try an alcoholic beverages. Universal Studios has also been home to some of the most popular Universal rides. Here are some of the best things to do at Universal Studios for Adults.

Best Rides at Universal Studios for Adults 2023:

• Revenge of the Mummy
• The Simpsons Ride
• Transformers: The Ride
• Hollywood’s Rip Ride Rockit
• Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon
• Fast & Furious- Supercharged

Best Early Park Admission Rides

• Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts

Be sure to check out our Universal early park admission tickets to save even more time in the parks.

Best Bars to Visit when planning Universal Studios for adults 2023:

• Duff Brewery Beer Garden
• Finnegan’s Bar and Grill
• Backwater Bar/Confisco’s Grille
• Lombard’s Seafood Grille
• The Watering Hole
• Mythos Restaurant

There are also plenty of drinks and other bars to choose from at Citywalk! While you’re at Universal Studios, it’s your chance to experience nostalgia, something the young folks just don’t understand. Some characters you must see at Universal Studios include legends like Doc and Marty McFly from Back to the Future, Shaggy and Scooby, and Marilyn Monroe.

Related Page: Discount Universal Early Park Admission Tickets

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Diagon Alley

Young adults who grew up watching and reading the Harry Potter series will get to see the Wizarding World of Harry Potter come to life by visiting its newest phase, Diagon Alley. 

Park guests won’t be able to spot the magical alleyway right away. On the outside, you’ll only see what looks like downtown London and the famous Kings Cross station. Once you see a peculiar purple bus (Harry Potter fans will recognize this as the Knight Bus), you’ll notice a gap in the walls that leads into the heart of Diagon Alley. There, you’ll see the dragon guarding Gringotts Bank, where you can ride the main attraction, Escape from Gringotts 3D ride. After riding, take a minute to browse the Weasley’s joke shop or enjoy a treat in the famous Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour. If you have a two-park pass, you can go back to King’s Cross station right outside the alley to hop aboard the Hogwarts Express for fun, themed transportation.

Related Articles: Complete Guide to the Universal Orlando Dining Plan

Universal’s Islands of Adventure for Adults 2023

As discussed Universal Islands of Adventure is simply one of the best theme parks in Orlando for adults. There are plenty of thrill rides for guest of all ages as well as the themed lands for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Jurassic Park.

Best Rides at Islands of Adventure for Adults 2023: 

• The VelociCoaster
• Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure
• Incredible Hulk Coaster
• The Amazing Adventure of Spider-Man
• Doctor Doom’s Fearfall
• Jurassic Park River Adventure

Best Early Park Admission Rides at Islands of Adventure

• The VelociCoaster
• Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey

Be sure to check out our Universal early park admission tickets to save even more time in the parks.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Hogsmeade

Islands of Adventure is home to the first phase of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Hogwarts itself and Hogsmeade Village. 

With many thrilling rides in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, you can experience them all while sipping an ice-cold Butterbeer in between adventures. Experience the Forbidden Journey at Hogwarts Castle, or buckle in on the newest Harry Potter ride, Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, which you’ll need a virtual line pass to ride (Tip: The app drops new time slots at noon and 2 p.m. and they go quickly, so be ready to act fast by having the Universal app already installed on your phone!) The best part is afterwards, you can grab a pint of beer at Hog’s Head Pub, something only the adults got to do in the Harry Potter series.

Related Page: Islands of Adventure Early Park Admission Tickets

Things to do at CityWalk at Night in 2023

When the sun goes down, the parties come up. This entertainment and retail district features tons of restaurants and bars. There are more than a dozen places to dine, but also many places to grab a drink. Adults can also enjoy singing karaoke with a live band and dance the night away at The Groove’s multi-level dance club with DJs, or the Red Coconut Club with a massive dance floor. These clubs at Universal Orlando are adults only, so enjoy dancing the night away until 2AM, as that’s how long CItyWalk is open until.

When thinking about things to see at Universal Studios Orlando, check out a live performance such as the Blue Man Group. As far as “must-do” things at Universal Orlando go, you’ll want to experience everything.

Related Article: Complete Guide to CityWalk Bars and Clubs

Best Universal Hotel for Adults 2023

If you’re looking for a kid-free getaway, you’re going to try and avoid hotels populated by lots of kids. We have stayed at all of the best Universal Orlando hotels, and we like to think we learned a thing or two to help adults visiting Universal.

Best Universal Hotels for Adults:

• The Portofino Bay
• Hard Rock Resort
• Aventura
• Universal Dockside Inn & Suites *Bonus

The Portofino is a quieter hotel than most others and features a few nice bars, but also has three pools. Overall, the Portofino is meant more for older couples or parties looking for a more “romantic” vibe. Plus, you can also book a spa day with the hotel’s full-spa services if you’re looking for something more lowkey. For something a little more edgy, the Aventura hotel features a 17-story rooftop bar and is considered one of the best Universal Studios hotel for adults.

As a bonus we also have added the Universal Dockside Inn & Suites to the list. Universal recently invited us to check out their newest value resort and we found it to be a great option for guests looking to visit Universal on a budget. 

How Much Does a Universal Trip Cost for Adults?

So now another important question is, how much does Universal Studios cost for adults? And on average we believe adults visiting Universal Orlando should budget for $1,650 – $2,250 depending on the hotel you choose. For this comparison we are going to include the cost of your Universal hotel and tickets only. We are also going to include 3 park – 3 Day base tickets as we feel that’s simply the best way to see and do it all at Universal.

What is the cost of an adults trip to Universal Studios?

• 2 Adult 3 Park Base Tickets: $665.00 Total
• Universal Orlando Hotel for 4 Nights: $1,005.00 Total
• Average Universal vacation for adults: $1,665.00

Related Page: Shop Discount Universal Orlando Vacation Packages 

Best Bars and Lounges in Universal for Adults 2023

While some nightlife options like The Groove and Red Coconut Club were mentioned previously, there are still many bars to check out while you’re at the Universal Orlando resort. So, if you’re asking, “is Universal Studios good for adults,” the number of bars alone can tell you “yes it is.”

Other bars and lounges in Universal for Adults include:

1. Dancing Dragons Boat Bar, Volcano Bay: Drink tropical and frozen beverages at this water theme park. Keep your toes in the sand and cool down with a cool drink (and they even have a refillable cup).
2. Backwater Bar, Islands of Adventure: This is a local favorite. It’s quaint, but it has the real feel of a classic hometown bar. There are many beers on draft, bottled drinks, and top-shelf liquor.
3. Finnegan’s Bar & Grill, Universal Studios: Located in the middle of New York, it’s a full-service Irish pub and restaurant, a perfect place to grab a pint of beer midday.
4. NBC Sports Grill & Brew, Universal CityWalk: This is the place to unwind and dine after a busy day at the parks. Craft beer is on tap, with over 100 beers on the menu, and you can watch a sports game on one of the more than 100 high-def screens.

Related Page: Everything You Need to Ride Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure 

Plan an Adults Trip Around Halloween Horror Nights in 2023

Did you know that Universal is home to one of the premier Halloween events in all of Orlando? Halloween Horror Nights is the perfect night out for any group of adults visiting Universal! Home to over 10 haunted houses and 5 scare zones Halloween Horror Nights brings together stories and visions from the world’s most notorious creators of horror.

This event is absolutely geared towards adults and it’s one of our favorite Halloween events in the world and not just in Orlando. Be sure to take advantage of our discount Halloween Horror Nights tickets. 

Is Universal Studios Good for Seniors?

As you can see a Universal Studios adult only trip can be a ton of fun, and this is no different if you are a senior. The only downside I see is that many of the rides have switched over to virtual screens in recent years. These rides might not be great for those who are prone to motion sickness. I even skip them from time to time and I’m in my thirties.

However on the flip side there are still some of the iconic original rides at Universal Studios such as Men In Black and E.T., as well as enjoyable rides such as the Hogwarts Express.

Related post: Complete Guide to All Universal CityWalk Stores

Is Universal Studios Orlando Worth It For Adults?

Last but not least you might be wondering, is Universal Studios Orlando worth it for adults? And Universal Studios Orlando is worth visiting for adults, due to the amazing Universal roller coaster and thrill rides found throughout the parks, Volcano Bay, and the overall atmosphere of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Not to mention the special events that Universal hosts throughout the year such as Halloween Horror Nights geared towards adults visiting Universal.

Also if you don’t feel like staying at a Universal Resort hotel, there are many cheaper hotel options that are just a short ride away, so you’re not wasting any time commuting!

Free Things to do at Universal Orlando 2023

There are not many free things to do in Universal Orlando, however, be on the lookout for the freebies when you can! Universal CityWalk is free admission all day, every day to walk around and see the bright lights and enjoyable atmosphere. After 6 PM, Universal Orlando parking becomes free (if you choose to drive there), so if you’re skipping the parks for a night out, enjoy the free parking while you can!

Related post: Complete Guide to the Universal Superstar Shuttle

Universal Studios for Adults FAQ

Q: Which Universal park is best for adults?

A: We find Universal’s Islands of Adventure to be the best Universal Studios park for adults. It simply has the most exciting roller coasters and newest attractions.

When is the Best Time To Visit Universal Orlando?

If you’re ready to plan your trip to Universal Studios, be sure to check out our Universal Orlando Tickets! Not only will you save money vs buying direct, but all of our Universal Orlando tickets come with some amazing benefits which can help save you up to three hours in the parks! 

And to stay up to date on everything going on inside the theme parks be sure to check out our partners at Themeparktoday.com!