Updated April 1, 2025 

The opening date for Universal’s Epic Universe is on the horizon and the air is buzzing with excitement. 

While tickets to the brand-new theme park have been on sale for a few months now, access to Universal Epic Universe has only been available in multi-day passes. This means guests can spend one day adventuring at Epic, and at least two days exploring the other two Universal theme parks, Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. 

If you purchase a 3-day ticket that allows you to move freely between Universal Studios Florida and Islands of adventure, you have the option to bounce back and forth between parks, affectionately known as “park hopping.”  

When you choose to park hop between Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, you can experience the best of both worlds (literally) in a single day.  

Plus, park hopping gives you access to the Hogwarts Express, an immersive attraction that lets you travel between King’s Cross Station in Universal Studios and Hogsmeade Village in Islands of Adventure.  

Tackling two parks in one day is much easier with a good plan and a bit of strategy.  

As a Universal Partner Hotel, Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando knows a thing or two about making the most of your day at the theme parks.  

Here are our 5 tips for park-hopping Like a pro at Universal Orlando.  

1. Be Aware of Park Hours 

When it comes to park hopping, the first thing you’ll need to do is check the operational hours of both parks.  

On certain days, one park may close earlier than the other. Depending on what day you go, you’ll want to make sure you visit the park that closes earliest first.  

You definitely don’t want to miss out on experiencing your favorite attractions because you weren’t aware of when the park closes. 

2. Arrive Early 

They say the early bird gets the worm, especially at Universal Orlando theme parks.  

If you want to maximize your day of park hopping, be sure to get there bright and early. 

Waiting in line to park at Universal’s parking garage can be killer, and going through security is even more time consuming. Planning to arrive a little before the park opens can save you both time and stress. 

The earlier you get there, the more time you’ll have to split between exploring Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. Plus, it’s a lot less crowded during the first two hours of opening. Take advantage while you can and use your time wisely. 

One of the best Universal Partner Hotel perks we offer at Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando is our free shuttle rides to and from Universal theme parks. Skip the hassle of parking by letting us drive instead. 

3. Download Universal’s Mobile App 

The Universal Orlando mobile app has live updates on the rides and attractions, including wait times and notifications about temporary closures or maintenance shutdowns. 

The app is also great when midday hunger starts to set in. In addition to listing dining options and full menus, you can also order your food in the app so you spend less time in line and more time having fun!  

Convenient park maps let you chart your day’s journey between attractions, so you spend less time wandering and more time adventuring.  

4. Prioritize Your Favorite Attractions 

It’s crucial to establish what attractions you want to see the most.  

This is the one time when “saving the best for last” doesn’t help. 

The parks are only open for so many hours. Don’t waste too much time on rides or attractions you aren’t that excited about.  

If you find yourself with excess time after doing everything on your itinerary, then shoot for the stars and climb aboard as many exciting Universal rides you can fit into your day of park hopping. 

5. Work Backwards 

When you’re working with a limited amount of time, the best thing you can do is start your Universal adventure at the back of the park and work your way up toward the front. 

As soon as you walk into the park, you may want to rush and save your spot in line for the first ride you see. The problem is, everyone else likely has the same idea as you, leading to long lines. 

Since you’ve already established which rides you want to tackle first, make your way toward the back of the park and try to cross items off your must-do list as you head back to the entrance.  

BONUS: Hop to 3 Parks 

Certain multi-day Universal passes include access to their exciting water park, Volcano Bay.  

Spend the day splashing, sliding, and swimming at a Polynesian-inspired oasis designed to entertain the entire family.  

Fitting Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay all into one day is a challenge, but you can always use your 3-day ticket to spend a day at Epic Universe, a day at Volcano Bay, and a day park hopping between their two original theme parks. 

Your Go-to Hotel for Park Hopping at Universal 

After a long day of park hopping, you’ll want to make sure you have a comfortable bed to rest your head.  

At Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando, you’ll find spacious accommodations with everything you need to gear up for a day at your favorite theme parks.  

Enjoy amenities like an onsite breakfast and dinner buffet at The Plaza Garden Restaurant where kids 5 and under eat free with a paying adult.  

When you’re not exploring the theme parks, you can lounge the day away by our seasonally heated swimming pool or treat yourself to dinner at a nearby International Drive restaurant.

We look forward to hosting you for your next park hopping excursion!