Our ~Toadally~ Cool Tips for Visiting Universal Orlando in the Summer

As parents, we get it. Sometimes, the only time available to plan a family vacation is during the long-awaited summer break. We've already written a blog about the best ways to stay cool during any time of the year at Universal Orlando Resort (because, well, Florida's sun is around year-round), so I recommend checking out that post as well! Here, I'm going to cover our best tips and tricks for making the most out of your trip to Universal Orlando, particularly during summer 2026, which has a lot of exciting hoppenings in store. Sound like a plan? Perfect. Let's dive right in!

Hop To

• Overview
• Crowd Levels
• Weather
• Events
• Tips

FAQs

• What is happening this summer at Universal Orlando Resort? This summer at Universal Orlando Resort, be prepared to celebrate Steven Spielberg's iconic films, including "Jaws" and the upcoming "Disclosure Day," and experience world-class entertainment, such as CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular and the Universal Mega Movie Parade. Also, take the ultimate splash at Volcano Bay Nights at Universal Volcano Bay.
• What will the weather be this summer at Universal Orlando Resort? Pack accordingly for temperatures that reach the high 90s with high humidity and daily afternoon or evening storms or showers.
• What events this summer at Universal Orlando Resort do I not need a park ticket for? Universal CityWalk is hosting several celebrations this summer that you won't need a park ticket for, including a Summer Movie Series at Universal Cinemark, a Summer Music Series and World Cup celebrations. Volcano Bay Nights is also a separately ticketed event that isn't included in daytime admission.
• What are crowds like during the summer at Universal Orlando Resort? With students and teachers out on break, summer is one of the busiest times to visit Universal Orlando Resort. Park hours, however, are usually longer in the summer so we recommend taking advantage of early mornings and late nights.
• Is there anything happening at Universal Orlando Resort hotels this summer? This summer, the lobbies of all 11 Universal Orlando Resort hotels will be home to jaw-dropping Universal-themed sand sculptures. Get your camera ready!

Overview of Universal Orlando in the Summer

If you're headed to Universal Orlando Resort in the summer with other frog families on vacation, you'll want to do some preparation and planning so you can maximize your time. Use our downloadable Jump Start guide that covers all aspects of visiting Universal Orlando Resort, including tickets, dining, Universal Express, Universal Epic Universe, hotels and more. Make sure you purchase tickets in advance, and take advantage of any summer deals. Undercover Tourist offers discount tickets, so you can save some green! You can still have a frogtastic time, even with more frogs in the pond, so to speak. But you need a plan, and we're here to help!

Summer Crowds at Universal Orlando

Summer is when students of all ages (and teachers) are out on break, so many families will plan vacations during this extended time off. It is one of the busiest times to visit, besides the holidays (particularly during the Thanksgiving and Christmas weeks). Starting with Memorial Day weekend, summer crowds will gradually build and peak during the week of the Fourth of July. Crowds start to slow down mid-August once kids return to school. Labor Day weekend is generally considered the summer season's "last hurrah." With so many frogs visiting during this time of year, a trip to Universal Orlando requires a little more planning and expectations, but don't worry — you can have an epic time!

The good news is that park hours are usually longer in the summer to help with the crowds, so we highly recommend getting there early (if staying on-site, take advantage of Early Park Admission — we get into more details below!), taking a break in the afternoon and then coming back to the parks in the evenings. Use our summer park plan as a guide!

Be sure to check out our Crowd Calendar for daily crowd levels and recommended parks, especially if you are visiting Universal Orlando during the summer.

Summer Weather at Universal Orlando

We can't hop around it — Orlando gets HOT in the summer, especially if you're not used to a warmer climate. Temperatures can regularly reach the high 90s (Fahrenheit) with high humidity. It's super important to pack accordingly (sunglasses, sunscreen and lightweight clothing), stay hydrated and take lots of A/C breaks to avoid heat exhaustion.

Florida may be nicknamed the Sunshine State, but summer is also the rainy season. Be prepared for daily afternoon or evening showers or storms. Fortunately, it generally rains for only an hour or two, moving quickly through the area. And it does help with cooling down the temps! Pack a poncho or umbrella, and stay flexible in case you need to switch up your plans. We recommend hitting any priority outdoor rides (especially in Universal Islands of Adventure and Epic Universe) first thing in the morning to avoid potential weather closures later in the day. For more tips, check out our rainy day at Universal Orlando post.

Summer Events at Universal Orlando

Universal Orlando has a sizzlin' schedule of special events and hoppenings going on this summer!

Spielberg Summer Blockbusters & Discover "Disclosure Day" at Universal Studios Florida

Steven Spielberg is returning to cinemas this summer with another adventure that explores the question "Are we really alone in the universe?" To celebrate the upcoming release of "Disclosure Day", enter the world of Spielberg's iconic films during Spielberg Summer Blockbusters featuring Disclosure Day. This experience displays never-before-seen props and costumes from the new film — only in theaters on June 12, 2026 — and celebrates classic movie moments with displays inspired by "Jaws," "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial," "Jurassic Park" and more.

"Jaws" at Universal Studios Florida

Last summer, the San Francisco area of Universal Studios Florida transformed into the bustling beach town of Amity to mark the iconic blockbuster's 50th anniversary. Just when you thought it was safe to go back in the water ... everyone's favorite Fourth of July celebration has returned.

Take a bite out of a new collection of theme-park-exclusive merch, including apparel and accessories and photo ops starring Bruce, the Amity billboard, Chief Brody's truck, Amity Beach cabanas, the famous Orca fishing boat from the film and Captain Jake's Amity Boat Tours from the former Jaws attraction.

Indulge in a wave of delicious food and drinks available only for the summer at Richter's Burger Co. (which is currently donning a killer new mural on its exterior), such as the We're Gonna Need a Bigger Boat Platter with three smash patties, American cheese, grilled onions, secret sauce, pickles, brioche bun and fries, and the Shake Attack, a bright, tropical shake with pineapple, orange and coconut finished with a bold strawberry "chomp" splash. You'll even find a new underwater-themed seating area, another seating area that perfectly resembles Quint's shack, a replica of the interior of the Orca (for photos only) and various photos and props from the film scattered around the restaurant.

Lastly, be sure to stop by San Francisco Candy Factory for more jawsome decor and themed sweet treats and Chez Alcatraz which is serving up new "Jaws"-inspired specialty drinks this summer:

• Golden Shark: Don Q Coco rum, Disarrono amaretto liqueur, pineapple juice, orange juice and lime juice
• The Great White: New Amsterdam vodka, lemon juice, elderflower syrup, and Sprite
• The Great White Mocktail: Lemon juice, elderflower syrup, and Sprite
• Amity Island Iced Tea: New Amsterdam vodka, BACARDI Superior rum, Cuervo Tradicional Blanco tequila, Bols apricot brandy, lemon juice, cranberry juice, simple syrup, and Sprite
• Amity Island Tea Mocktail: Cranberry juice, stone fruit syrup, and Sprite

There's even two new drinks available at Chez Alcatraz specially for Pride Month: the Rainbow Island made with BACARDI Raspberry rum, el Jimador blanco tequila, New Amsterdam vodka, New Amsterdam gin, DeKuyper triple sec, grenadine, sour mix, topped with a rainbow sour belt and Sprite and the Brooklyn Brewery Stonewall Inn IPA.

Volcano Bay Nights at Universal Volcano Bay — Select Nights May 3 to Aug. 21, 2026

From 7 to 11 p.m., enjoy shorter wait times on all your favorite wet and wild attractions at Universal Volcano Bay at Volcano Bay Nights. This separately ticket, after-hours event also features a live DJ, DreamWorks character meet and greets, exclusive menu items and delicious complimentary bites — culminating in an epic beach bash you won't want to miss. Check out our full guide to Volcano Bay Nights for all the frogciting info.

CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular at Universal Studios Florida — Select Dates April 5 to Aug. 23, 2026

Experience this "cinesational" lagoon show that celebrates Universal's iconic films and franchises from the past, present and future! Films include "Harry Potter," "Jurassic World," "Jaws," "Shrek," "Ghostbusters," "Trolls," "Back to the Future," "Despicable Me," and so many more (I repeat, SO MANY). It features new special effects and the latest technology, such as 4K projection mapping, 228 choreographed fountains, an original composition and — perhaps best of all — more than 600 drones.

Hogwarts Always at Universal Islands of Adventure — Select Dates April 14 to Aug. 24, 2026

Hogwarts Always, a nighttime castle projection show that debuted in June of 2024, takes you on a journey through iconic moments of a year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. On select nights, witness the Sorting Ceremony, dine at the Great Hall and cheer for your house during the House Cup winner reveal. The show has four different endings that celebrate each Hogwarts house with a colorful, pyrotechnic finale.

Re(d)Tro Nights at Universal CityWalk — Wednesdays through Sundays, May 8 to July 18, 2026

Starting at 6 p.m. on Wednesdays through Sundays, Red Coconut Club is taking you back in time with neon lights, retro beats and throwback vibes. Travel back to the 80s and 90s at Re(d)Tro Nights where you can indulge in speciality drink offerings while you dance the night away. Admission is free and open to frogs of all ages while drinks are available for purchase for guests 21 and over with valid photo ID.

Here's what the bartenders are serving up downstairs where you'll find a Giant Light Bright board and the famous phone booth from the "Bill & Ted" franchise:

• Muscle Beach: Screwball peanut butter whiskey, Malibu coconut rum, lime juice and pineapple juice
• Oh Yeah: Grey Goose vodka, Midori, Disaronno amaretto liqueur and cranberry juice
• Just Peachy: BACARDI Superior rum, DeKuyper blue curaçao, lime juice, peach syrup and Sprite
• Neon 75: Empress 1908 gin, St-Germain, lemon juice, lavender syrup, simple syrup and Cupcake Prosecco
• Blue Moon
• Sierra Nevada Pale Ale
• Michelob Ultra
• Rekorderlig Strawberry-Lime Cider
• Yuengling
• Lagunitas Brewing Co. IPA
• Miller Lite
• Modelo Especial
• Coors Banquet
• High Noon
• Athletic Brewing Co N/A
• Spellbound
• Noble Vines 446
• Cupcake Vineyards

The party continues upstairs with a slinky ceiling, a photo booth, foosball, table shuffleboard, a plethora of arcade games and more refreshing beverages:

• Amaretto Sour: Disaronno amaretto liqueur, Maker's Mark bourbon, lemon juice, simple syrup and eggs whites
• Midori Sour: Midori, lime juice, simple syrup and egg whites
• Electric Lemon Drop: 360 Vodka Sorrento Lemon, DeKuyper blue curaçao, lemon juice and simple syrup
• Piña Colada: Don Q Reserve rum, pineapple juice, lime juice, cream of coconut and a hint of smoked sea salt
• Miller Lite
• Modelo Especial
• Coors Banquet
• High Noon
• Athletic Brewing Co N/A
• Cupcake Vineyards
• Noble Wines 446
• Spellbound

In June — exclusively for guests 21 and up — the hoppening club is hosting Love is Universal Nights on Thursdays from 6 p.m. to 12 a.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m. An overlay on top of an overlay, you'll find more décor, photo ops and a specialty menu fit for the occasion:

• Slay the Dragon: Malibu coconut rum, DeKuyper blue Curacao, lime juice, dragon fruit syrup, simple syrup and Sprite, served in a black light neon cup
• Neon Nights: BACARDI Superior rum, lime juice, dragon fruit syrup, lychee syrup, club soda and Sprite, served in a black light neon cup
• Rainbow Static: Three Olives Loopy vodka, Malibu coconut rum, DeKuyper Triple Sec, and simple syrup
• Brooklyn Brewery Stonewall Inn IPA

Illumination's "Minions & Monsters" Experiences

Say "bello" to brand new offerings in celebration of the highly-anticipated film, Illumination's "Minions and Monsters." In Universal Studios Florida this summer, you'll find new interactive photo ops, including the debut of Henry and James (two new Minions from the upcoming film) at the Illumination Theater and parks-exclusive merchandise, such as the Minions & Monsters blind box collectible figures and a shoulder pal of Goomi, one of the adorable new characters from the film.

Over at Illumination's Minion Cafe, some delicious new menu offerings have even appeared:

• Howard's Berry Lemonade Cupcake: Berry lemonade cupcake garnished with a tentacle gummy
• Irene's Creamsicle Cheesecake Calzone
• Monster Marshmallow Lemonade: Strawberry lemonade with Sh'mallow marshmallow topping and eye sprinkles

Celebrate Pride Month 2026

Love truly is Universal with the brand new offerings for Pride Month 2026.

First of all, there's the merch. Whether you snag the denim jacket with rainbow trim, the keychain featuring a rainbow heart, the rainbow folding fan or the Love is Universal tumbler, 100% of the profits from the Love is Universal merchandise through August will be donated to non-profit organizations that support local communities, including the LGBTQIA+ community!

Of course, we can't froget the food and beverage offerings. Talk about mouthwatering! Among others, you'll find:

• the Prideful Primavera, Triangoletti-stuffed pasta with mornay, sun-dried tomatoes, basil pesto, pickled shallots, beet chips and edible flowers at VIVO Italian Kitchen
• the Pride Shake and Sizzle & Serve cocktail made with orange-flavored vodka, triple sec orange liqueur, lime juice, simple syrup, passionfruit syrup, hot sauce, bitters, a rainbow sugar rim and a golden glitter swirl at The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen
• Shrimp Tacos made with blue corn tortillas, chipotle butter, guacamole, grilled pineapple slaw and refried beans at Antojitos Authentic Mexican Restaurant
• the Pride Doughnut, a raised yeast blue doughnut with blue vanilla icing, a fruity cereal rim, velvet top clouds and a rainbow strip gummy at Voodoo Doughnut
• the Pride Bagel, a rainbow bagel with strawberry cream cheese and fresh strawberries at San Francisco Pastry Company
• the Pink Pegasus cocktail made with pink lemonade vodka, pomegranate liqueur, lemon juice, pineapple juice, simple syrup and lemon bitters at Mythos Restaurant
• the Rainbow Razz beverage made with swirled blend of Dole Whip, cotton candy and Razzberry Pop Rocks at Chill Ice Cream
• and the Petals & Pride cocktail made with dragon berry. rum, triple sec orange liqueur, lime juice, dragon fruit syrup and lemon-lime soda at Peara Bar

Plus, in Universal CityWalk this June, the Plaza Stage and Water Fountain will be lit up for the occasion, as well as the area outside of the Universal Cinemark.

Universal Mega Movie Parade at Universal Studios Florida — Select Dates June 5 to Aug. 23, 2026

Some of Universal's iconic films once again leap off the screen and take over the streets of Universal Studios Florida during the Universal Mega Movie Parade. This is Universal's biggest daytime parade to date, featuring 13 floats, nearly 100 performers and special effects. Highlights include a 16-foot Stay Puft Marshmallow Man atop the "Ghostbusters" float, a colorful Caterbus representing the "Trolls" float and a grand finale of Raptors and a Tyrannosaurus Rex aboard the "Jurassic World" float.

Grab a spot next to Mel's Drive-In, Universal Orlando's Horror Make-Up Show and Cafe La Bamba to catch the parade as it begins and ends. You'll notice epic Easter eggs, such as the "Back to the Future" float saying Twin Pines Mall on one side and Lone Pine Mall on the other!

Celebrate the World Cup at Universal CityWalk — June 11 to July 19, 2026

The world's biggest soccer games are quickly approaching and there's no better place to get in on the athletic action than at Universal CityWalk. Swing by the Coca-Cola beverage truck to score a collectible soccer-themed Freestyle cup and enjoy a tasty lineup of specialty beverages. You'll also be able to take part in immersive AR moments in between cheering on your favorite teams at NBC Sports Grill & Brew. It's non-stop fun from the first kick-off to the final goal.

Summer Movie Series at Universal CityWalk — Saturdays and Wednesdays June 20 to Aug. 26, 2026 

Enjoy classic blockbuster movies at Universal Cinemark. Lineup includes:

• "The Mummy"
• "The Land Before Time"
• "Jaws"
• "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial"
• "Scott Pilgrim vs. the World"
• "Jurassic Park"
• "The Dark Crystal"
• "Back to the Future"
• "Army of Darkness"

Check your app for showtimes!

Summer Music Series at Universal CityWalk — Saturdays from June 20 to Aug. 15, 2026

Dance the night away at the CityWalk Waterfront Stage where the Summer Music Series will return with performances at 8 p.m., 9 p.m. and 10 p.m. every Saturday night.

This year's themes include:

• June 20: Women in Music
• June 27: Broadway Night
• July 4: Legends of Rock Night
• July 11: Boy Band Night
• July 18: Throwback Night
• July 25: Latin Night
• Aug. 1: EDM Night
• Aug. 8: Motown Night
• Aug. 15: Country Night

Celebrate the Fourth of July — July 4, 2026

It's the United States Semiquincentennial and Universal Orlando is pulling out all the stops! From the theme parks to Universal CityWalk to the hotels, here's a rundown of all the ways the resort is celebrating this milestone birthday.

Universal Epic Universe

• Jam out to a live, continuous DJ set at the Hemisphere Stage from 5 to 9 p.m.
• Snap a pic with Fourth of July-themed stilt walkers near the Hemisphere Stage and Cosmos Fountain throughout the evening starting at 5 p.m.
• Check out lively ground performers near the Hemisphere Stage and Cosmos Fountain throughout the evening beginning at 5:30 p.m.
• Grab a seat at Cosmos Fountain for a Fourth of July fireworks show at 9 p.m. and a captivating fountain show at 10 p.m.

Universal Studios Florida

• Catch a 15-minute Street Breakz performance at the Expo Circle at 5:30, 6:30, 7:30 and 8:30 p.m.
• See stilt walkers and ground performers take over the Music Plaza Stage from 6:15 to 9:50 p.m. while live DJs pump up the jams from 5:15 to 10 p.m.
• View the Universal Mega Movie Parade at 6 p.m.
• Say hello to a variety of your favorite characters all night from 6:30 to 10 p.m. at the Music Plaza Stage
• Head over to Mel's Drive-In to meet more beloved characters from 7 to 8:50 p.m. and watch live performers from 7:20 to 10 p.m.
• Vibe with a live DJ at Mel's Drive-In from 7:15 to 8:45 p.m. and 9:30 to 10 p.m.
• Watch CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular from the Lagoon at 9 p.m.
• Check out a brief, vibrant display of pyrotechnics from the Lagoon at 10 p.m.

Universal CityWalk

• Listen to live musical performances from the American Sirens on the Plaza Stage from 5 to 8 p.m. and Hall of Fame on the Waterfront Stage from 8 to 10:45 p.m.
• A live DJ will blast tunes from the Promenade from 8 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. while atmosphere performers and stilt walkers keep the party going all night long

Hard Rock Hotel

Choose two meats and two sides when you get the $30 beachclub Dining Special, available from 12 to 4 p.m.

Smoked Meat Selections:

• 16 Hour Beef Brisket
• St. Louis Ribs (1/4 rack)
• Pulled Pork
• Smoked Chicken Wings (6)

Home-Style Sides Selections:

• Nana's Potato Salad
• Macaroni Salad
• Coleslaw
• Grandma Kaye's Cucumber Salad

House-Made Sauces

• Buzzed BBQ with Root Beer and Espresso
• Carolina Gold Apple Cider Vinegar and Brown Sugar
• Gochujang with Chilies and Soy Sauce

Universal Endless Summer Resort - Dockside Inn and Suites & Surfside Inn and Suites

Pick from two Fourth of July-exclusive meal specials and a drink special at both hotels:

• BBQ Half Rack of Ribs, Wedge Potatoes, Coleslaw - $19 for adults and $10 for children
• 6-piece Wings (BBQ or Buffalo), Fries, Coleslaw - $17
• Bomb Pop Drink Special - $17

Universal Cabana Bay Beach Resort

Atomic Tonic Meal Special:

• Mains: Hamburgers (Beef or Turkey) and Hot Dogs
• Sides: Potato Salad, Coleslaw, Corn on the Cob, Watermelon, Novelty Ice Cream Rocket Pop, Ice Cream Sandwich

Activities:

• Lawn games
• Sunset movie on the lawn

DJ Entertainment

• The Hideaway Bar & Grill: 12 to 4 p.m.
• Atomic Tonic: 3 to 7 p.m.

Universal Aventura Hotel

Bar 17 Bistro Dining Special - $18:

• Mains: Hot Dogs or Hamburgers (Beef, Turkey or Veggie)
• Sides: Corn on the Cob, Coleslaw, Watermelon, Potato Salad, Bagged Chips

DJ Entertainment:

• 8:30 to 11:30 p.m.

Universal Celestial Goodnight at Universal Epic Universe — Debuting July 7, 2026

It's a dazzling end to your day that only the gods themselves could've conjured. For the first since it opened in 2025, Universal Epic Universe will be illuminating the skies above Celestial Park nightly. Universal Celestial Goodnight is a jaw-dropping new nighttime spectacular featuring an enchanting display of dancing fountains, breathtaking lighting effects and an incredible fireworks finale. From Luna to Apollo, every inch of Epic Universe's world between worlds will glisten with meticulous choreography set to an awe-inspiring soundtrack that will serve as a legendary farewell to an action-packed day of thrills, magic, mystery and wonder.

Summer Fun at Universal Orlando Resort Hotels

If you're staying at a Universal Orlando Resort hotel this summer, you'll be able to snap a selfie with next-level Universal-themed sand sculptures in all 11 hotel lobbies. How cool is that?!? Here's what you'll find at each hotel

• Universal Helios Grand Hotel: "How to Train Your Dragon"
• Universal Terra Luna Resort: Dark Universe
• Universal Stella Nova Resort: E.T. Adventure
• Universal Aventura Hotel: "Back to the Future"
• Hard Rock Hotel: "Ghostbusters"
• Loews Royal Pacific Resort: "Kung Fu Panda"
• Loews Portofino Bay Hotel: "Jaws"
• Universal Endless Summer Resort - Surfside Inn and Suites: "Trolls"
• Universal Endless Summer Resort - Dockside Inn and Suites: "Shrek"
• Loews Sapphire Falls Resort: "Jaws"
• Universal Cabana Bay Beach Resort: "Shrek"

Additionally, throughout the month of June, the Hard Rock Hotel's music amenity WAX program will feature LGBTQIA+ artists' vinyl albums AND you'll also hear playlists around the hotel featuring LGTBQIA+ artists in heavy rotation. Plus, Hard Rock Pride merchandise will be available in the Rock Shop in the hotel lobby.

Tips for Visiting Universal Orlando in the Summer

1. Purchase Tickets in Advance

Whether you and your tadpoles want to get hopping to your first ride or grab some breakfast to fuel up for your epic day, one of the last things you want to do is wait in a long line to purchase tickets. During the summer, it's not uncommon to spend 45 minutes standing in that line outside the gates. Save time and money by purchasing your tickets online in advance through Undercover Tourist. Maximize your savings by selecting the exact dates you're going to be visiting the parks. Or, maximize your flexibility by purchasing a ticket that allows you to go anytime. Psst! We've got special deals hoppenin' right now!

Whichever ticket type you select, I highly recommend purchasing a park-to-park ticket. These tickets allow you to enjoy everything Universal has to offer in one day, so not only does that include a relaxing ride on the air-conditioned Hogwarts Express, but — if you opt for a ticket that includes Volcano Bay — access to Universal Orlando's thrilling water theme park, as well! We love starting hot summer days in the theme parks and ending them by getting drenched on water rides or floating our cares away in the Kopiko Kai Winding River.

Still a little unsure? That's toadally OK! We can help you out in our separate blog post if you're having trouble deciding which ticket type is best for you and your frog squad.

2. Stay On-Site

There are so many reasons why we love staying on-site at Universal Orlando Resort. To recap, all Universal Orlando hotel guests receive Early Park Admission, an amazing perk that allows you to access Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios Florida, Epic Universe or Volcano Bay up to one hour early. That extra ride time is invaluable and will help you avoid longer wait times in outdoor queues when the sun starts beaming down mid-morning.

On top of that, Universal Orlando hotels are all only a short walk, shuttle ride or boat ride away from the parks. This allows you the perfect escape from the heat midday. This is especially true if you've had an early start and want to head back later once the sun begins to set. Nothing beats a mid-day nap in an air-conditioned hotel room or a splash in a resort pool!

3. Get to the Parks Early

If spending a little extra green to stay on property isn't worth it for you, it's still toadally possible to have an epic day at the parks without being able to take advantage of that extra time in the morning. That being said, we still recommend arriving before the gates officially open. Team members tend to let non-hotel guests into the parks about 15 minutes or so before the scheduled opening time. At Islands of Adventure, we've used that time to head into Hogsmeade and conquer both Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey via the Single Rider line or Express Pass in less than an hour. At Volcano Bay, we've used that time to stake out the perfect spot on Waturi Beach under one of the shaded structures.

Plan to arrive at the park gates about 45 minutes prior to opening. Also, be sure to factor in the time it'll take you to park your car, go through security and — if you're heading to Islands of Adventure or Universal Studios Florida — walk through Universal CityWalk. Sure, getting up with the sun may not seem so desirable in the morning. However, you'll thank your past self when you're able to more easily avoid the major crowds and afternoon heat later in the day.

4. Utilize Express or Single Rider Lines

As I mentioned earlier, the Single Rider line is one of my favorite tips for avoiding long lines and a must-do for any party that's okay with not riding an attraction together. That being said, parents with tiny tadpoles don't particularly have that luxury. As such, the next best option is purchasing a Universal Express Pass. This add-on allows you to enjoy shorter wait times at most rides in Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure and Universal Epic Universe. The standard Universal Express Pass allows you to enjoy shorter waits at participating attractions once per day, but there's also an Express Unlimited Pass, which allows you to enjoy shorter waits at participating attractions as many times as you want! You know how I recommended staying on-site? Well, staying at any either Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Portofino Bay Hotel or Loews Royal Pacific Resort actually grants you free Universal Express Unlimited. Talk about making your stay even suite-r!

Brand new, Universal Orlando Resort has also introduced Universal Express Now. This fresh addition to the Express Pass line-up allows you to enjoy a shorter wait once at the participating attraction you've selected during a specific time window. Once you're in a theme park, check the Universal Orlando Resort app to see which attractions are available at that specific park and snag your shorter wait! This add-on is offered sporadically when availability opens with limited entry windows as capacity and operation conditions allow.

No one (especially easily irritated tadpoles) wants to stand in long lines with crowds of people in the heat of the day. With summer being one of the most popular times to visit the parks, this additional purchase can go a long way in helping you make the most out of your vacation.

5. Visit Parks at Night

I briefly mentioned it above when discussing reasons to stay on-site, but it's worth mentioning again. Heading back for a nap midday and taking advantage of the parks after dark is highly recommended. Plus, it's much more preferable than cutting your day short. Crowds inevitably tend to fizzle out once the sun starts setting. Plus, the temperature starts dropping. Additionally, riding outdoor attractions, such as Stardust Racers, at night when they're all lit up is a magical experience in and of itself!

From now through the end of August, don't miss out on two thrilling nighttime shows — the dazzling CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular at Universal Studios Florida. Embark on a journey through iconic scenes from Universal's blockbuster films in a stunning lagoon show with cutting-edge technology that includes over 600 drones!! Then, witness the enchanting Hogwarts Always projection show at Hogwarts Castle at Islands of Adventure, which will take you on a magical journey through a school year at Hogwarts and end with sparkling pyrotechnics.

Over at Epic Universe, the Cosmos Fountain Show illuminates Celestial Park every night at park close as Luna takes the reins from Apollo and celebrates the wondrous worlds that inhabit Universal's newest theme park with water, music and light.

Other fun ways to light up the night outside of the parks include Hollywood Drive-In Golf, two interactive 18-hole mini golf courses that take on an other-worldly illumination at night, and Wantilan Luau at Loews Royal Pacific Resort, where captivating hula and fire dancers will make you feel as if you're at an authentic Polynesian party!

6. Use a Park Plan

Going to any theme park during the summertime can be intimidating, to say the least. With hot temperatures and large crowds, it can be difficult to figure out the perfect game plan that will make your entire frog squad hoppy. Well, we've come to the rescue with some frog-tested, frog-approved park plans that are guaranteed to help make your day a little less stressful and a lot more fun.

7. Seek Out Water Elements

Of course, hitting up the various water rides at Islands of Adventure and Epic Universe during the summer is a must, but did you know there are plenty of other spots around all three theme parks to cool down? Stop by the Mystic Fountain in the Lost Continent and see if you can correctly answer one of its riddles. (Prepare to get splashed either way!) Head down to Camp Jurassic in Jurassic Park and soak your fellow frogs with Dilophosaurus head water cannons. And don't froget to take a stroll through Toon Lagoon, where you'll find several different splash pads and water elements you can interact with to keep you nice and cool. Over in Universal Studios, indulge in the refreshing mist sprinklers by the Animal Actors On Location! stage or try your hand at the "Aguamenti" and "Meteolojinx" spells over in Diagon Alley.

Tadpoles can also partake in even more wet and wild fun in DreamWorks Land! Young warriors will be able to explore Panda Village at Po's Kung Fu Training Camp. In this wet and dry play area, they'll have the opportunity to help pandas wash and dry their laundry. It features enormous water cannons, dump buckets, giant fans and more.

At Epic Universe, Astronomica — an interactive wet-play attraction — lies in the center of Celestial Park and acts as a compass that points to the portals and attractions around the park. Head toward How to Train Your Dragon - Isle of Berk to compete in an epic boat battle that's sure to leave you sopping wet on Fyre Drill or even just say a friendly hello to the Snow Wraith, a creature known for its chilling arctic blast. You can also summon a hidden grindylow in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Ministry of Magic at the Fontaine de la Rue Malabête — but watch out for splashes!

We can't state it enough — stay hydrated! Bring a refillable water bottle. The parks have plenty of water fountains to fill it up! (Plus, you can save money if you're eating on a budget by bringing your own.)

8. Seek Out Shade

Interacting with those fun water features can be a lifesaver on a hot day! However, they're not exactly going to keep you cool for very long. If you're looking for places to be able to sit down, relax and cool off, Universal Orlando has many shaded areas to hide out under when the sun starts to boil down on you. In Islands of Adventure, my favorite places to relax are the Owlery in Hogsmeade (where you'll find benches and fans), the amber mines in Camp Jurassic (which are a stunning sight to see if you've never been) and the back of Mythos in the Lost Continent, looking out toward the water.

In Universal Studios, the best places to hide out from the sun are Knockturn Alley in Diagon Alley. This is one of the coolest places in either park (temperature-wise). Carkitt Market, also in Diagon Alley, is perfectly shaded and a great place to indulge in a highly recommended cone or cup from Florean Fortescue's Ice-Cream Parlour! The tiniest of trolls can enjoy Poppy's Playground, a shaded play area featuring colorful flowers and bugs and a bountiful array of fun bouncing and climbing structures nestled under a giant, 20-foot mushroom in the all-new DreamWorks Land.

Over at Epic Universe, seek shelter from Apollo's rays at Hooligan Harbor Hideaway in the Isle of Berk or at the front of Celestial Park near the shops and Starbucks Coffee. You can even hop inside Universal Helios Grand Hotel, grab some mid-day fuel at Aurora Market and take a load off in the lobby (one of our favorite hop tips)! You'll just need your park ticket to reenter the park when you're ready to play again.

If you're looking for more spots that might not necessarily be shaded but will definitely give you a break from the large hoards of frogs in the parks, be sure to check out our list of the best places to take a sensory break.

9. Prepare Mentally

Aside from everything you need to do to prepare physically, such as packing sunscreen, sunglasses, hats and rain gear (because it inevitably will start raining at some point during the day), preparing for your summer trip mentally is just as important. (That being said, we've listed our packing suggestions for the summer season!) It may not be the most ideal time to head to the parks, but it's still a great time and having a fun and memorable vacation can still be super easy! A lot of it is about attitude and knowing that you're going to be facing large crowds and unfavorable weather. As long as your frog squad's expectations are managed (and you follow some of my pointers above), you're sure to have an awesome vacation — no matter the time of year!

Have you been to Universal Orlando during the summer? What are some of your favorite tips? Share them with your fellow frogs in the comments below!

Related: How to Visit Universal Orlando in One Day

Keep hopping!