Universal truly is a world of its own. So it stands to reason they would have their own city. As you transition from the “real world” to the world of cinematic adventures found in the parks, you’ll find there’s fun to be had without even needing a park ticket. Allow me to take you through the basics…
CityWalk as The Gateway to Adventure
When heading to Universal’s two original parks, CityWalk is your first stop. The parking garage and bus stops will deliver you just outside of CityWalk, and the resort water taxis and garden walking paths will drop you right in the heart of it. You will then find the entrances to the parks on either side of this little city. You will go through security prior to entering CityWalk, which is a nice buffer to make park entry a bit smoother.
Since you do not need park tickets to enter CityWalk, it is also a great way to get your dose of Universal fun when you don’t have the time or budget to visit the parks. I like to start and end my trips here to get those last minute “You know what? I deserve this!” souvenirs. BUT, if you decide you just NEED some park time, you will find ticketing windows on the way to both park entrances. There you will also find the will-call kiosks to print your tickets and express passes.
CityWalk is also home to a Guest Services window that is open late, as well as a first-aid area. Since I generally recommend not doing the parks on arrival day (since you will be tired from traveling and not have a full day), having guest services available here allows you to get any questions answered or issues taken care of, as well as purchasing upgrades prior to your full park day.
CityWalk For Foodies
CityWalk is home to SO MANY restaurants! From unique dining experiences like Toothsome Chocolate Emporium, familiar spots like Margaritaville, and even grab and go options like Hot Dog Hall of Fame or Voodoo Donuts, you’ll find something to sink your teeth into (Jaws style!).
Again, this area comes through in the clutch for having a great dining experience on non-park days, or even after you close out the parks (because you needed that last ride on Velocicoaster!). Many of the restaurants offer walk-up availability, but for the more popular table service options (Toothsome especially), it is highly recommended to snag a reservation. You can now check for reservations right in the Universal Orlando app.
DID YOU KNOW? If you’re staying at a Universal Signature Collection Resort, your concierge can help you get reservations, and you get priority seating at many of the onsite dining locations!
CityWalk for Shopping
As home to the BIG Universal Studios Store, as well as several smaller souvenir kiosks, you should be able to find something amazing to take home with you! Here you will find much of the same merch found throughout the parks. So, if you changed your mind about that great item you thought you could live without, here is your chance.
Currently you will also find the Epic Universe Preview Center across the way from the big store. Get your Epic fix here before the big opening in May.
You will also find a Surf and Skate shop, a retail spot located in both Margaritaville and Hard Rock, and a great retail area for your Steampunk fans and your sweet tooth inside of Toothsome.
CityWalk for Entertainment and Nightlife
Finally, what is a city without some fantastic entertainment options?! There is fun for all ages here too. Since CityWalk stays open well past park closing, you don’t have to let the fun end yet! These are also great options for your arrival/departure days or mid vacation breaks from the hustle of the parks.
Mini Golf: Hollywood Drive-In Golf offers 2 18-hole courses. Choose from either a 50s style Sci-Fi themed course or a Haunted Horror Course…or do BOTH! Each hole offers fun themes and neat special effects that your whole family will love.
Movie Theater: Universal Cinemark offers the latest cinematic releases with classic movie theater accouterments. What better place to see a film than where they literally come to life?!
Escape Rooms: Universal’s Great Movie Escape offers 2 iconic film themed escape rooms. Choose from a prehistoric puzzle in Jurassic World: Escape or race against the clock with Back to the Future: OUTATIME…or, of course, you could treat yourself to BOTH! You’re on vacation after all.
Bars/Lounges: Snag a cocktail or two and enjoy some tunes at one of several bar/lounge options. Several spots are open to all ages during the day, but may switch to adults only at night. Bob Marley’s Tribute to Freedom offers live reggae bands or a DJ each night. Fat Tuesday offers a great selection of bevvies with 2 locations. Lone Palm Airport is where you’ll find that it is 5 o’clock somewhere. Red Coconut Club offers seasonal overlays and super fun theming alongside dancing to a DJ or live entertainment. Finally, Rising Star is where you’ll head for karaoke.
Concerts & Live Entertainment: In addition to the lounge entertainment, you will also find a 3,000 seat auditorium at Hard Rock Live where some of the most prominent performers in the industry take the stage. A calendar of events can be found over at Hard Rock Live’s website.
Now that you have an idea of what to expect at Universal’s CityWalk, will you be planning to spend some time there during your trip?
Have you booked your Universal Orlando vacation yet? If you have a Smart Moms Travel agent already, great! BUT if you’re still sans agent, and are feeling like there’s a lot here to take in (because there is, and it is growing with Epic Universe coming soon), I got you! All you have to do is fill out this quick form: HERE and help is on the way!
