Theme parks can get expensive, but a trip to Universal Orlando can lead to extra savings if you plan accordingly.
A new promotion at Universal offers a bonus two days free with the purchase of a 2-park, 3-day ticket for Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure. Ticket prices may vary by day, but the package starts at $275.99 for adults 10 and over and at $265.99 for kids ages 3-9. If you enjoy all five days, that's about $55 per day for the pass, which is a good deal.
Day passes to each park typically start at $120, twice the price per day as with this promotion. A pass to Universal Volcano Bay, a themed water park, can also be added for $35.
The package includes five total days to enjoy Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure (only one per day, unless you upgrade to a park-to-park pass), over a period of eight consecutive calendar days. Meaning you can split up your park days with additional Orlando attractions (Disney, for example) or some relaxing pool days between the rides, shows and lines for chicken tenders.
If you're trying to beat the system and share your pass, know that Universal is already ahead of you: A biometric scan to enter the park will ensure that multi-day passes aren't transferable.
Some of Universal Orlando's main attractions include The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Florida and Hogsmeade at Universal Islands of Adventure, with the Hogwarts Express connecting the two (for park-to-park pass holders only), Jurassic World at Universal Studios and a new Minion Land which just opened over the summer.
From November 17 through December 31, Universal Orlando also goes all out for the winter holidays, with Christmas decor, a Macy's parade most nights, the Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular show and more.