Universal CityWalk Orlando is the self-proclaimed Epicenter of Awesome ... and we can’t argue with that! With a wide variety of restaurants, you can spend a good amount of time just trying to decide where to eat. If you're a froggy fashionista, be sure to stop by the stores. Looking for more of a low-key activity after exploring the parks? Catch a movie or play mini golf. Exploring CityWalk is a great way to add onto your already awesome Universal Orlando Resort visit! CityWalk is a hoppin’ spot, whether you’re making the most out of an adults-only vacay or you're there with your whole frog family. In this handy guide, I’m going to give you the low-down on all of the great dining, shopping and entertainment options you can find at Universal CityWalk Orlando.
FAQs
- What is Universal CityWalk? Universal CityWalk is Universal Orlando Resort's shopping, dining and entertainment district.
- Where is Universal CityWalk? Universal CityWalk is located next to Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure at 6000 Universal Boulevard.
- Do I need theme park admission to enter Universal CityWalk? You do not need park admission to enter Universal CityWalk but you do need to pay for parking. Save $3 on regular self-parking by pre-paying on the Universal Orlando Resort website.
- What can I expect to find at Universal CityWalk? Splurge at fun shops such as the Universal Studios Store and Rock Shop, dine at delectable restaurants, such as The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen and The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar, and unwind with thrilling entertainment, such as Hollywood Drive-In Golf and Universal's Great Movie Escape. The nightlife is also hoppening with lively venues, such as the Red Coconut Club and Hard Rock Live Orlando.
- How do I get from Universal CityWalk to Universal Epic Universe? Universal Epic Universe is just one of many stops you can bus to using Universal Orlando Resort's complimentary shuttles at Universal CityWalk. If you have a car, you can also do the 10-minute drive from Universal CityWalk's parking garage to Universal Epic Universe's parking lot.
A note from Mommy Frog: Frogs under the age of 18 without theme park admission (or separately ticketed events, as applicable) are required to depart Universal CityWalk after 8 p.m. on weekends unless they're accompanied by a parent or guardian (21 years of age or older) with a valid government-issued photo ID with date of birth to verify age, are staying at a Universal hotel, have a CityWalk restaurant reservation, have tickets for Hollywood Drive-In Golf or Universal's Great Movie Escape. One parent/guardians may accompany no more than five guests under the age of 18.
Universal CityWalk Location
This dining, shopping and entertainment hub is located right at the center of Universal Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida. That means you could easily hop out of the parks for a bite to eat and then keep hittin’ the coasters! We also recommend CityWalk as a nightcap to enjoy a nice relaxing meal or window-shop before heading back to your hotel. We love that it gives you a little break and change in scenery, as well as a killer food selection. CityWalk is also terrific because it isn’t too spread out. There is a TON to do in a relatively condensed area without feeling crowded, so you don’t have to do too much walking. We’re usually worn out from hopping around the parks all day!
For those of you staying on-site at a Universal Orlando hotel, it's easy to make CityWalk part of your day. If you're staying at Lowes Sapphire Falls Resort, Lowes Royal Pacific Resort, Lowes Portofino Bay Hotel or Hard Rock Hotel, your water taxi to the theme parks drops you off right in the middle of CityWalk. For guests at Universal Helios Grand Hotel, Universal Stella Nova Resort, Universal Terra Luna Resort, Universal Cabana Bay Beach Resort Hotel, Universal Aventura Hotel, Universal Endless Summer Resort - Surfside Inn and Suites and Universal Endless Summer - Dockside Inn and Suites, you'll hop aboard bus transportation.
Parking at Universal CityWalk
While Universal Epic Universe has its own parking lot, Universal Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios Florida, Universal Volcano Bay (Universal’s water theme park) and CityWalk share the same two main parking garages. Once parked, all you have to do is follow the signs toward the security hub that you go through before entering CityWalk and the theme parks.
There are a few different options that you can utilize to hop on a parking spot at Universal CityWalk:
- General: The lowest cost all-day option, general parking can place you anywhere between a five- to 15-minute walk to the security hub. Arriving first thing in the morning or later in the evening gives you pretty good odds of snagging a solid spot. Save $3 on the regular self-parking price and purchase your parking prior to the day of your arrival on the Universal Orlando website for $32 (tax included) or pay $35 (tax included) at the parking toll plaza.
- Prime: For a premium price of $50 to $60 (tax included), prime parking guarantees a more convenient parking spot than is currently available for general parking. This still leaves some variation in where you could park, but will most definitely cut down on your walking time. (If you initially paid for regular parking but would like to upgrade to prime, there's a $14 to $25 up-charge with tax included.)
- RV/Bus: Oversized vehicles have an entirely separate parking area from the main garages — be sure to follow signs in order to get to the right place! RV and bus parking is $45 (tax included).
- Evening: Did someone say … free?! During non-Halloween Horror Nights event nights, parking after 6 p.m. is free at Universal. If you’re visiting Orlando for other attractions and just want to make a brief appearance at CityWalk, this is the best time. Save that money and buy yourself a souvenir! During Halloween Horror Nights event nights, free self-parking doesn't start until after midnight.
- Valet: At three different price points — $38 (tax included) for two hours, $46 to $81 (tax included) for over two hours and $81 (tax included) for over two hours on Halloween Horror Nights event nights — valet certainly has its perks. You’ll be parked in a separate area super close to the CityWalk entrance and directed toward a less busy security station. (Valet is 50% for Preferred Annual Passholders — after first visit and subject to availability — and free for Premier Annual Passholders — after first visit and subject to availability.)
Jot down or take a photo of your parking section and row number (i.e., King Kong 415). There's even a Parking Reminder in the Universal Orlando Resort app under the Profile tab. Don’t trust your memory, especially after a long day of shopping and eating! Another major error first-timers make is not paying attention to which garage they’re headed back into when leaving Universal. When you reach the security hub, it’s important to look for the signs and follow the proper path toward your designated section. Since the two garages don’t connect, you could end up walking in circles looking for your car.
Does all of this sound like a bit too much? Don’t worry! Being chauffeured by an Uber, taxi, cab or whoever you want is an option, as well. Currently, the pick-up and drop-off locations for ride-sharing apps are located in the north parking garage. Follow ride app drop-off/pick-up signage.
The perk of the combined parking between Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, Volcano Bay and CityWalk is that you don’t need to drive between most of the Universal destinations. However, should you find yourself wandering off-property around Orlando, simply keep your receipt and re-enter at no additional cost later in the day. (The same goes for the Epic Universe parking lot.)
Yikes, did the battery die on the SUV? Have no fear, your Universal superheroes are here! Use the garage call boxes to reach an attendant for help.
And just in case you need to enter CityWalk as your destination in your GPS, here is the Universal CityWalk address:
6000 Universal Boulevard
Orlando FL 32819
Universal CityWalk Restaurants
The Universal CityWalk sit-down restaurants offer almost every type of cuisine imaginable for an excellent experience with your frog squad. Whether you’re craving a hearty burger or unique cuisine, you’ll be sure to find a spot that meets your needs.
Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food
Check out Antojitos for authentic Mexican street fare. This colorful building is a must-do photo-op, whether you’re stopping in for a margarita or a full meal. The live mariachi band is sure to spice up your night!
Bigfire
Bigfire is the latest addition to CityWalk's lineup of toadally awesome dine-in restaurants. It gives off major rustic, outdoorsy vibes, as if you're hanging out with friends and family at a lakeside summer house. American fare, such as burgers and steak, gets open-fire cooking treatment with smoky smells and flavors. Be sure to leave room for s'mores!
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
“Run, Forrest, run!” to this home of Southern favorites just like Mama makes ‘em. Bubba Gump features a versatile seafood menu, as well as other down-home favorites — including gluten-free and kids' menus. If seafood isn’t your thing, be sure to grab the award-winning BBQ ribs.
Hard Rock Cafe Orlando
A classic spot for an entertaining meal, Hard Rock Cafe Orlando will have you ready to rock (and hop!) with an excellent variety of dishes, accompanied by live entertainment. Music memorabilia takes center stage with a suit worn by Elvis himself, Buddy Holly’s famous black glasses and much, much more. Hard Rock offers standard dishes including scrumptious salads and sandwiches.
Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville
There’s no better way to get in the laid-back Florida spirit than by wasting away in Margaritaville. Jimmy Buffett’s restaurant is known for stacked burgers and tropical frozen drinks. Stop by the Margaritas To Go Surf Shack beverage window for a marg on the fly, or step inside for a tropical dinner and live music. This is one of our go-to Universal CityWalk restaurants when we're hopping with folks from out of town!
NBC Sports Grill & Brew
Out of all of the Universal CityWalk restaurants, if I had to recommend one restaurant for a big family with differing tastes, NBC Sports Grill & Brew would be it. This restaurant has a huge menu with a flavor for everyone ... from towering burgers, to fish tacos, to pasta and everything in between. And we mean everything! The portions are generous, and prices are reasonable. NBC Sports Grill & Brew is an absolute winner if you’re looking for an easy sit-down meal.
Pat O’Brien’s
Transport yourself to New Orleans at Pat O’Briens, serving up Cajun favorites while dueling pianos play. Don’t forget to order some crawfish or a sweet Bag O' Beignets for an authentic Louisiana-style meal. Gulp down a Hurricane or two for the true Big Easy experience!
The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar
You won’t find a more unique restaurant at Universal CityWalk than The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar. Where else can you find a sushi-burger combo?! This Asian American fusion restaurant has an excellent, unique burger selection, delicious sushi, and plenty of combinations of the two. Have you ever dreamed of Cheeseburgooshi? Just like the name suggests, all of your favorite burger fixings are wrapped up in soy paper and flash-fried. The menu holds many other unique gems like this … and more simple selections if you just want a delicious burger or Bento box. It's a surprising family favorite, but the tadpoles love it.
The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen
At Toothsome, the portions are big and the flavor is even bigger! Described as an eatery, drinkery and confectionary ... what more could you ask for? Toothsome boasts rich, indulgent plates from Chicken Cordon Blue to Hazelnut and Banana Crepes. This 19th-century steampunk-themed restaurant also offers an outrageous (in the best way possible!) array of milkshakes to-go or candy from the confectionary. Cross your fingers to meet Professor Doctor Penelope Tibeaux-Tinker Toothsome ... her milkshakes bring everyone to the yard! We have a full Toothsome review if you need more convincing.
VIVO Italian Kitchen
For a contemporary twist on Italian cuisine, stop by for dinner at VIVO Italian Kitchen. Hot pizza, pasta, bread and, of course, vino (wine) are sure to satisfy your palate.
Quick 'n' Easy Bites at Universal CityWalk Orlando
If you just want a quick bite to eat or you’re on a budget, Universal CityWalk has plenty of those options, as well. It can be an excellent break from the overload and overindulgence of vacation food. You can take your pick from quick-service eateries that are unique to the district, or find your favorite fast food chain.
Voodoo Doughnut
Good things sure do come in pink boxes. This quirky bakery serves over 50 unique, fresh pastries daily. Hailing from Portland, Oregon, we feel pretty lucky that Voodoo Doughnut made its way to Universal CityWalk Orlando, the first and only (so far) East Coast location! (Miami and New York City locations are coming soon!) Indulge in a Butterfinger Devil's Food Cake doughnut, or opt for a fruiter option, such as the Mango Tango Shell. We love seeing the menu change seasonally with new festive creations every few months!
Red Oven Pizza Bakery
Whether enjoying your meal on the covered patio or from the take-out window, Red Oven Pizza Bakery is sure to satisfy your pizza craving with its inventive variety of pizzas. The best part? They’re cooked in 90 seconds or less, so you can keep hoppin’ through your day!
Bread Box Handcrafted Sandwiches
This isn’t your average sandwich shop. Bread Box offers truly gourmet hot and cold options. My personal favorite is the Cuban with pulled pork, ham, pickles, Swiss cheese and mustard, pressed on pan sobao bread. At a great price, this is a great low-key spot to feed your whole family.
Bend the Bao
Located on the second level above the movie theater, this walk-up Asian fusion quick service can be easy to miss, but don’t count it out. Choose from a variety of delicious bao such as the Pork Belly or the Crab Cake ... and don't froget to wash it down with some sake!
Hot Dog Hall of Fame
The Hot Dog Hall of Fame is likely the most distinctive under-budget restaurant at Universal Orlando. The name says it all — this spot offers a home run variety of hot dogs inspired by local favorites such as the “Arizona,” which features smoked bacon, pinto beans, cheese and grilled onions and peppers. The theming is on par with the tasty dogs, offering stadium-style seating, artificial turf and bleachers! Universal knocked this restaurant out of the park.
Universal's Fresh Eats
Need something to hold you over on the drive back to your hotel? Starving after a long trip? Grab a hot personal pizza, delicious salty popcorn, a warm, gooey cinnamon roll or more from Universal's Fresh Eats located right in the garage's security hub.
If you just want something tried-and-true, CityWalk also has several restaurants you’ll likely already be familiar with, including:
- Auntie Anne's: A perfect snack to grab while hopping between parks, Auntie Anne's serves up freshly made soft pretzels, baked to golden perfection.
- Burger King Whopper Bar (Closing April 21, 2026): Burger King takes “Have it your way” to a whole new level at the Whopper Bar. You can build your own burger with over 20 toppings to choose from! This is a fun twist on your classic fast food.
- Cinnabon: A mall favorite, Cinnabon has been enticing visitors with its fresh-out-of-the-oven cinnamon rolls for over 30 years. It’s worth splurging on extra icing!
- Cold Stone Creamery: With combinations such as “Birthday Cake Remix” (cake batter ice cream, brownies, fudge and sprinkles), your whole family is sure to be leapin’ for ice cream from this popular shop!
- Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt: Menchie's is a nationwide self-serve frozen yogurt shop with a huge selection of flavors and toppings. Yum! What a good way to cool down during those hot Florida days.
- Moe’s Southwest Grill: “Unlimited chips and salsa bar” is the bottom line here. Get delicious burritos, quesadillas, salads and more with the toppings of your choice at Moe’s.
- Panda Express: Find on-the-go versions of your Asian-inspired favorites at Panda Express. Leap and I never pass up our favorite, the cream cheese rangoons!
- Starbucks: Need I say more? Everyone’s favorite coffee shop will keep you fueled throughout your day.
- Five Guys (Coming Late Summer 2026): Enjoy fresh, made-to-order burgers and fries at this popular casual dining spot.
Universal CityWalk Kid-Friendly Entertainment
If you didn’t get your fill of entertainment and fun at Universal’s parks throughout the day, there’s plenty more to see at CityWalk. From seeing stars on the big screen to mini golfing, your frog family will have a hoppin’ good time.
Hollywood Drive-In Golf
This one is a Frog Family must-do when we hit CityWalk! This interactive putt-putt course will keep your family having fun through all 18 holes ... or 36, if you want to do both courses. Choose from '50s sci-fi or horror movie themes, and keep an eye out for the quirky special effects throughout. You won’t find a mini golf course like this back home!
Universal Cinemark
There’s no better way to chill out than with a movie after a busy day at the parks. Catch the latest blockbuster, family film or dystopian teenage zombie rom-com right at Universal CityWalk. If you purchase two or more tickets to a matinee showing (11 a.m. to 6 p.m.), you will be reimbursed for regular parking.
Bob Marley — A Tribute to Freedom
You get much more than a normal dining experience here. This restaurant is modeled after Bob Marley’s home in Kingston, Jamaica, and it’s full of artifacts, photos and video clips of our favorite reggae legend. Beyond the great Jamaican food is great entertainment — a live reggae band and DJ every night.
Universal's Great Movie Escape
This is no ordinary escape room. Inspired by two of cinema's most iconic franchises, this escape experience plunges you into the worlds of some of your favorite films and presents you with head-scratching puzzles you'll need to solve in order to save the day. Enter "Back to the Future: OUTATIME" where you'll race against the clock to stop Biff from ruining the timeline as we know it or try out "Jurassic World: Escape" where you'll have to put your skills to the test to outwit some prehistoric predators. When you're done, enjoy a delicious beverage at one of the two lobby bars and snap photos with some familiar costumes.
Universal CityWalk Bars and Nightlife
If you need a night to let loose (without the tadpoles), Universal CityWalk is popular with tourists and locals alike for its bars and nightlife.
Fat Tuesday
Fat Tuesday is your go-to place if you want to sip on some cocktails without breaking the bank ... or spending too much time waiting at a bar. This counter-service joint has two different locations at CityWalk — but Leap and I prefer the “upstairs” main location for its larger variety of flavors. You can get a 16 or 24 oz. frozen beverage and opt for a souvenir cup. Then, mix whatever flavors you want! Strawberry daiquiri + Piña Colada = PERFECTION.
Lone Palm Airport
Step onto Jimmy Buffett’s very own seaplane for a waterfront tiki bar to enjoy out-of-this-world appetizers and drinks. This Parrothead oasis offers classic and unique snacks, including Conch Fritters with chili and lime spiked aioli. Yes, please — after all, it’s 5 o’clock somewhere!
Red Coconut Club
The Tribute Store in Universal Studios has a spiritual sister when it comes to getting festive. Every few months, the Red Coconut Club gets a massive makeover as it gets ready to celebrate special events, such as Halloween, the holidays and even Mardi Gras! Grab a specialty themed cocktail at any of the bars and explore two frogciting floors of festive decor or hit the dance floor and jam out to tunes from a DJ or live singers. Whether "Cursed", "Dead" or "Green and Red", the Coconut Club is one hot spot you don't want to miss!
Rising Star
Feeling confident? Stop by Rising Star for karaoke, whether it’s your singing debut or just a stop on your tour. Be the star of the show with a live band and backup singers for the ultimate singing experience! This is a great way to get out of your comfort zone on vacation and make memories that will last a lifetime. Admission is free but you must be 18 or older with valid photo ID to enter.
Hard Rock Live Orlando
See the top names in music and comedy in this 3,000-seat auditorium boasting state-of-the-art audio, lighting, video and a full bar and concession stand. Once the lights go down and the crowd rises up, you're in for the ultimate entertainment experience. Hop over to Hard Rock Live's website to see the calendar of events.
Category 10 (Coming Late 2027)
Opening up in late 2027, country star Luke Combs is bringing his off-the-charts entertainment venue, Category 10, to Universal CityWalk. Get ready to experience the best in live music, food and spirits at this 33,000 square-foot, three-story hotspot that will include experiential areas influenced by Combs' music and passions. Opry Entertainment Group is set to break ground on the brand-new waterfront location in summer 2026. More details on the project will be announced soon!
Spectacular Shopping at Universal CityWalk Orlando
You may not think of Universal Orlando Resort as a major shopping destination, but you’d be pleasantly surprised! If the traditional theme park souvenir doesn’t speak to you, hop and shop around Universal CityWalk Orlando for more practical mementos, including apparel and art pieces. Here is the lowdown on key shops and retailers.
Candy Smith
Head home with all the sweets and treats your heart desires at this confectionary located inside The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen. Along with funky gifts and cool clothes, you'll find an endless array of specialty chocolates and candies including bonbons, macarons and even candy floss!
CityWalk Hub Store
Have you ever begun walking back to your car only to realize you wanted one last souvenir? Have no fear! Situated just across from security in the garage, this merchandise location is stocked with T-shirts, hats, toys and more.
Hart & Huntington Tattoo Company
If you’re searching for the ultimate vacation souvenir, step into Orlando’s premier tattoo parlor and get inked in a shop known for its creativity, quality and cleanliness.
Rock Shop
Rock out at the Hard Rock Café’s souvenir shop! You can find the Hard Rock logo on everything imaginable to remember your rockin’ visit. Take home a robe, pin, T-shirts and more.
The Smuggler's Hold
You may not find your long-lost shaker of salt, but you will find island-style clothing, collectibles, candles and more at this gift shop attached to Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville. Oh, and of course some of the restaurant's signature margarita mixes!
Universal Epic Universe Preview Center (Closing April 13, 2026)
Snag swag from Universal Orlando's frogtastic fourth gate at the Universal Epic Universe Preview Center. Check out gorgeous concept art of Celestial Park, How to Train Your Dragon - Isle of Berk, Super Nintendo World, Dark Universe and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Ministry of Magic AND explore the store's pièce de résistance: a humongous scale model of Universal Epic Universe which you can bring to life with augmented reality using the Epic Universe Preview Center app (Apple and Android).
Universal Studios Store
Didn’t feel like committing to buying and carrying around a certain souvenir in the parks all day? Look no further. You can pick up tons of unique Universal gear here before heading back to your hotel.
Recently, this store got a whole lot more epic with a magical expansion! Celebrate your love for Super Mario and Donkey Kong with a section devoted to Super Nintendo World, shop all three lands of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and enjoy cold or frozen Butterbeer at the brand new Butterbeer counter.
Universal Legacy Store (Coming Late April 2026)
Shop exclusive retro merchandise and explore fun photo opportunities at this iconic store inspired by fan-favorite attractions and films such as "E.T.", "Jaws," "Back to the Future" and Universal Monsters.
Top Universal CityWalk Orlando Tips
Here are just a few more quick things to take note of before you leave your hotel:
- There’s a bit of a journey between the parking garages and the security hub, which then leads to CityWalk. To help increase your pace, moving walkways are open to help you keep leapin’. When it comes to manners, treat the moving walkway as you would a highway. Slow walkers to the right, fast-paced people to the left … and always keep moving. Remember, no strollers. Don’t be the group holding up traffic!
- Try something unique. Sure, a simple dinner at Panda Express is a blast. However, we recommend thinking outside of the pond for your dining options. Instead, try the Red Oven Pizza Bakery as a more unique, low-cost option.
- Don’t wait around. Are you just wanting a quick drink or snack? Skip the full-blown dining experience. There are plenty of great places where you can have fun without investing too much time or money. Pick up a milkshake at the walk-up order station at Toothsome, or head to Margaritas-To-Go Surf Shack to get that signature Jimmy Buffett beverage.
- Dine at odd hours. Eating lunch at 1 p.m. on the dot or dinner at 7 p.m. is a surefire way to get caught up in a long wait time. Try scheduling meals for irregular times — do a late lunch around 2:30 p.m., and dinner around 8 p.m. This will allow you to use that wait time for better things!
- Make reservations. If you have your heart set on a meal at Cowfish, call ahead or reserve online to make sure you can get your fam a table without an extensive wait.
- Plan, plan, plan. There are TONS of shopping, dining and entertainment options at CityWalk. Do your research on the options and figure out what would be best for you and your frog squad. CityWalk will overwhelm you with its splendor, so it’s good to have a game plan ahead of time.
- And plan efficiently. Think you’ll be spending big bucks at a certain shop? Save that for later so you won’t have to haul your bags around all day.
- Beware of weather. Just like at the parks themselves, Universal CityWalk Orlando is a mostly outdoor experience. If there’s rain in the forecast (which happens more frequently than you'd think), bring umbrellas, rain jackets or emergency ponchos. It is way better to be prepared than to have to duck out in a shop.
- Even beware of the GOOD weather. Again, CityWalk will expose you to all of the elements. The last thing your tadpoles need is to get sunburned while out shopping! Wear sunscreen and stay hydrated to keep the family hoppin’.
- If you’re an annual passholder, use your discount. It’s easy to froget since you’re not in the parks, but keep your pass handy at Universal CityWalk. Many shops and attractions offer special pricing!
Whew — time to take a breath! Can you believe that there is so much to do right in the heart of Universal Orlando? It is most definitely worth spending a night — or even a full day — here. It is the perfect place for an escape, whether you want a wild night of karaoke and cocktails, or a laid-back afternoon full of fast food and shopping with the whole family.
What is your go-to agenda at Universal CityWalk Orlando? Do you have a must-try plate at a restaurant or snack you can't live without? What shop do you spend your green in? Share with us in the comments below!
Related: Best Table-Service Restaurants at Universal CityWalk in Orlando
Hoppy planning!
