Close Banner
last chance frog

Walt Disney World® Resort Theme Park

more savings

SAVE UP TO $85 / TICKET

GET MY TICKETS

The Spring Breaker's Guide to Universal Orlando

by Leap on March 4, 2024 1490 Orlando

Inside This Post Inside This Post

After surviving the winter months, we’ve learned that we absolutely need to schedule some warm-weather fun during Tad and Lily's week off from school. We're all too happy to hop down to Florida for some much-needed sunshine, which usually means a spring break trip to Universal Orlando Resort!

Universal Orlando Spring Break - Mardi Gras performer

Overview of Spring Break 2024 at Universal Orlando

While we love visiting any time we can, spring break ranks just behind the weeks of Christmas and New Year's as some of the busiest times to visit Universal Orlando. As many students head to Hogwarts during their muggle school break, you'll want to be prepared to maximize your trip.

Remember to get your Universal Orlando tickets all set up ahead of time so you can just head straight to the gate. You can even save some green when you book your tickets through Undercover Tourist! Consider purchasing park-to-park tickets so you can enjoy both Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure in one day (did you know you can ride the Hogwarts Express to travel between the two parks? Count me in!).

You can still have an amazing time even when there are more frogs in the pond, so to speak. But it does mean you need to have a plan! That's where this post comes in. We're going to be sharing our best tips so you will have an amazing time this spring break at Universal Orlando. But first, let's talk a little bit about crowd predictions.

Important Dates to Consider

Here are some dates and events to consider while visiting during spring 2024 to help you plan out your visit:

Spring Break Crowds at Universal Orlando in 2024

Universal Orlando Spring Break - New York

With schools taking their spring breaks at different times, the length of the spring break "season" varies. While the start of the season is always early March, the end fluctuates, thanks to Easter. The date of the holiday changes every year, and many school districts adjust their spring break or give additional days off because of it. Typically, when you have a later Easter, there is a longer, but overall less crowded spring break season. And as always, weekends will be busier than weekdays. For 2024, Easter falls on March 31, so there will be an overall shorter spring break season.

Florida universities typically have spring breaks during the first week of March. This year, the public schools in Orange and Seminole Counties have spring break from either March 11 to 15, or March 18 to 22, so those weeks, in particular, may be busier due to locals being out of school.

We always recommend that you check our Crowd Calendar for daily crowd levels and recommended parks, but you should especially do so if you are visiting Universal Orlando over spring break in 2024. Now, onto our tips!

Tips for Visiting Universal Orlando During Spring Break

Universal Orlando Spring Break - VelociCoaster

1. Arrive at the Theme Parks Ahead of the Official Park Opening

Our single most important tip is to arrive early, especially during spring break. Arrive at the resort before opening and ride your popular attractions in the first hour or two before the lines get too long. Be sure to double-check the park opening times (which you can see on our Crowd Calendar) because they can and do change. If you're staying at a Universal Orlando Resort hotel, be sure to utilize Early Park Admission to get a jump on the crowds (Jurassic World VelociCoaster, here we come!).

Note that during peak times, the theme park can hit capacity (especially on weekends), so we recommend arriving in the morning.

2. Follow Our Park Plans and Download Our Wait Time App

We recommend you at least have an idea of which attractions you want to visit in the parks. Lucky for you, we offer park plans for all of the Universal Orlando Resort, Disney World and SeaWorld Orlando theme parks so that you can experience the most in-demand attractions with the shortest durations first. Download the printable park plans from our site before you go, or use our app to follow or customize our plans! You can also use our free wait-time app for iPhone to check wait times for rides nearby instead of having to traverse the park.

Universal Orlando Spring Break - Twirl 'n' Hurl

3. Consider Purchasing Express Pass or Using Single Rider Lines

Universal Express Pass allows you to skip the lines at most Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure attractions and access priority seating at shows. Note that the only rides that do not offer Express are Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and Pteranodon Flyers at Universal Islands of Adventure. We definitely recommend purchasing this ticket add-on if you're visiting during spring break. You'll save lots of time by bypassing the standby queue, which means more rides!

Universal Orlando Spring Break - Hogwarts Castle

Another free option to minimize waits is using the Single Riders line. If you don't mind splitting up your party, this is a great way to get on a ride more quickly than the standby line. Your party will remain together in the Single Riders queue, and then one by one will be directed to fill in empty seats with odd-number groups. Notably, all three of the popular "Harry Potter" rides and VelociCoaster have a Single Riders line. While this may work best for teens and up, those with younger tadpoles will want to stick to the regular or Express lines.

4. Pack with Purpose

Head into spring break well-prepared with these essential items! While not peak summer, it can always get hot in Florida, so make sure to bring hand-held fans and sunscreen. It can also rain often, so we recommend bringing your own rain ponchos so you don't have to buy the pricer ones in the parks. Be sure to bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save some green. Finish out your essentials with a portable phone charger so your phone can survive your epic 14-hour park day.

5. Eat Breakfast at the Hotel and Pack Your Own Drinks and Snacks

Universal Orlando Spring Break - The Kitchen

Need a cup of Joe in the morning? We caffeine-fueled frogs get it. But grab your coffee before you get to the park, so you can spend those precious early hours on rides and not in the Starbucks line. You'll save more time if you eat ahead of time, and if you're eating breakfast off-site, you'll also potentially save more money. And when you bring your own snacks and drinks, you can avoid lines — as well as hunger and hydration meltdowns!

6. Avoid Dining During "Prime Time"

No one wants to wait long for food when the whole family is one step away from "hangry." You'll find the shortest lines at quick-service restaurants during "off-peak" hours — for example, before 11 a.m. or after 2 p.m. for lunch. Just remember to adjust your breakfast and snack times accordingly. No matter when you eat, we highly recommend using mobile ordering so you don't have to wait in line to order.

7. Review Your Safety Plan

Crowds + tadpoles = sky-rocketing anxiety levels for parents. No matter how old everyone is, it's always good to review things such as “what happens if we get separated” beforehand as a family. Take photos of the tadpoles in the morning so you have an up-to-date photo in case they get lost and/or wear noticeable clothing (while Tad may think it's too "cheesy," matching family T-shirts can have an important purpose after all!). Set up a predetermined meeting location in case the group splits up, intentionally or unintentionally. We have more tips on how to prevent your tadpole from getting lost (while this post is specific to Disney World, the same general tips can applied to any theme park).

8. Enjoy Universal Volcano Bay

Universal Orlando Spring Break - Krakatau Aqua Coaster

Cool down from the Florida heat and enjoy a dip in the hotel pool, or even better, hop over to Volcano Bay, Universal's water park. Whether you want thrilling water slides or just a lap around the lazy river (make that two laps), we definitely recommend adding on a day for Volcano Bay!

9. Know Entertainment Schedules and Where to Meet Characters

Make sure to check the Universal Orlando app for daily showtimes. There are lots of fun character sightings and shows that only hoppen at certain times. From superheroes and the Simpsons to Scooby-Doo and the gang, there are characters for the whole family to enjoy. Some characters don't have published set times, so you'll never know who you'll see!

Universal Orlando Spring Break - Mardi Gras Float

Universal's Mardi Gras celebration runs through April 7, so you can enjoy themed food, a full-length daily parade and weekend concerts. Hop over to our Mardi Gras at Universal guide for more details!

10. Be Flexible and Pack Your Patience

If you start to feel overwhelmed, take a deep breath and maybe a five-minute "time-out." It’s very important to bounce back from a meltdown... yours or your kids'!

While I love when a great plan comes together, I know when it’s OK to change course. Take occasional "temperature" checks of everyone's energy levels and attitudes. If you have to cut something short or go to a different park than you planned, don't sweat it. It’s about quality, not quantity.

Remember, there will be lots of froggies also visiting Universal Orlando, but as long as you have reasonable expectations and a flexible plan, your family will have an epic vacation!

Have a question about what to expect during spring break at Universal Orlando in 2024, or a Universal Orlando spring break tip to share? Share it with us in the comments below!

Related: The Best Times to Visit Universal Orlando 

Keep hopping!

Keep hopping, Leap!
View Comments
<<  Newer Posts | Older Posts  >>
1251–1300 of 1481 comments
Mar 7, 2023 at 12:54 p.m. Aimee Munoz Says...

This is very helpful!

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 12:33 p.m. Cddsweeps Says...

Great place to spend Spring Break!

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 12:27 p.m. Morgan Burke Says...

Great tips for families, but if you can, avoid travelling during Spring Break season, between the Easter holiday and the varied schedules for school vacations there rarely seems to be any lulls in crowds during the Spring months.

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 12:16 p.m. Patrick Nicholson Says...

Love this!

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 12:07 p.m. Beth S. Says...

Spring break in Florida sounds amazing right now! So much snow in Minnesota.

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 11:43 a.m. Alex62789 Says...

I’ve never been but would love to take the kids one day!

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 11:38 a.m. Raul Rentas Says...

Great tips!

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 11:27 a.m. Dawn Harris Says...

Awesome tips for Spring Break!

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 10:16 a.m. Chris W Says...

Don't pass up on Endless Summer!

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 9:20 a.m. Abraham Liandro Says...

dont think id want to go during spring break too busy

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 9:01 a.m. David Cotton Says...

Great advice on the 'How To' get the most out your park hours. knowing the times and layout of the Park is Brilliant!

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 5:34 a.m. Taylor Q Says...

The not so lazy River is the best

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 5:33 a.m. Randy Says...

Such amazing tips!!

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 5:12 a.m. Alissa Says...

I want to go to Universal Orlando so bad!! Hopefully this will help.

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 5 a.m. roxy1601 Says...

I’ve never been during spring break, but it sounds fun!

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 4:59 a.m. Lindsey Says...

Thanks for the helpful info

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 4:47 a.m. Princess Stitch Says...

I'm assuming this is more for younger kid's spring break rather than college-aged students, but I still think it applies either way! Having tricks up your sleeve definitely helps.

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 4:36 a.m. Jill S. Says...

Great blog! It’s really helpful to know when Floridians are on springs break. I always appreciate the tips you provide.

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 4:29 a.m. Jaclyn Says...

Great tips!

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 4:23 a.m. Nikki Says...

So busy!

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 4:19 a.m. Amanda G Says...

Fantastic tips! Spring break in Florida sounds dreamy. We're still buried in 3 feet of snow here!!!

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 4:12 a.m. Tanya M Says...

Great advice. Spring break is super busy but it is one of the times all my kids are out of school at the same time.

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 4:11 a.m. molly Says...

Single rider is totally worth it!

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 3:58 a.m. Aury Says...

I have so many tips from my many trips to Universal, but one of the main things is ALWAYS GET THERE EARLY!!!! People typically start racing to certain attractions, so for IOA, I recommend Hagrid's or Velocicoaster for the first attraction of the day, and then Escape from Gringotts for the first attraction of the day at Universal Studios.

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 3:49 a.m. Marcienugget Says...

Not first pick of timing to visit.

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 3:46 a.m. So Says...

Great info!

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 3:36 a.m. cmatts Says...

This is so helpful! thank you!

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 3:24 a.m. Ben Smith Says...

Great tips! Planning on rope dropping and taking lots of snacks.

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 3:20 a.m. Amanda O. Says...

Such great tips! There is so much to learn and try to remember beforehand, but it can be hard to keep it all straight until you've been a few times. I haven't been yet, but my husband and daughter were there for Christmas a couple of years ago. They had so much fun, but some of this information would have made it even better!

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 3:12 a.m. Amanda Connolly Says...

Good to know!

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 3:06 a.m. Debbie D. Says...

Bringing your own water is always the best tip ever.

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 2:49 a.m. Sarah Yardley Says...

I need this for when we plan a trip over spring break when the kids are older!

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 2:46 a.m. Teresa Y. Says...

Definitely going to be taking advantage of the single rider lines!

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 2:42 a.m. Kristen Smith Says...

I love the attached park day plans. It is very helpful for planning out our park days.

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 2:36 a.m. Hannalise Irwin Says...

My kids would love Volcano Bay, looks amazing!

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 2:23 a.m. Brian S. Says...

Great advice about not dining during peak times! Love it!

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 2:17 a.m. Paula dinsmore Says...

cool

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 2:15 a.m. Lauren Keck Says...

Useful tips and tricks! Helpful in staying safe and getting the most out of a trip.

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 2:13 a.m. Betsy B Says...

Still sooo hot in March so bring summer essentials!

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 2:12 a.m. Jacob Flores Says...

Yoooooo!

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 2:11 a.m. cecelia portlo Says...

sun and fun

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 2:09 a.m. Brianna D Says...

Busy but still worth it!

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 2:04 a.m. Gault Bryan Says...

Can’t wait

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 1:53 a.m. Christine G Says...

Would love to see Hogwarts!

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 1:49 a.m. Sheila H Says...

I love the plans for the theme parks. That is brilliant.

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 1:47 a.m. Mary Beth Says...

I have never been to Universal so these tip will be very helpful!

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 1:39 a.m. Nerlande Says...

Love this it’s very informative.

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 1:11 a.m. Robert mauriello Says...

UI haven't participated in spring break since the 70's

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 12:57 a.m. Anita Duvall Says...

It's really helpful having all of these great tips on how to Spring Break and how to handle those busy time.

Reply
Mar 7, 2023 at 12:51 a.m. Kalliepacker Says...

I would buy the fast pass, arrive early, bring in own snacks.

Reply
Leave a comment
About Us
About Undercover Tourist

Undercover Tourist is the leading supplier of online discount tickets to Orlando, Florida-area attractions, including Walt Disney World® Resort, Universal Orlando Resort™, SeaWorld® Orlando, LEGOLAND® Florida Resort and more.

Sign up for our newsletter!