Best Time to Visit Universal Orlando

Universal Studios Orlando is open every day of the year, rain or shine, so you can visit any time that your schedule permits. The experience you have at Universal will be greatly affected by the number of people that are in the park and the weather. The best time to visit Universal is when the weather is moderate and the crowds are low. Hit the park during busy season and you'll spend an awful lot of time waiting in line -- and bake in the Florida sun while you do so.

Weather:Florida is known for great warm weather, but the summer months can be oppressively hot. Universal offers some of the best rides and attractions in Orlando, but the waiting areas and walking areas leave something to be desired. You won't find many shady, cool spots so be prepared for the heat if you travel in summer.

Traveling from September through May will yield more comfortable temperatures and less of a chance of sunburn. If you do travel in the summer hit the park in the morning, enjoy water rides to stay cool, and save indoor attractions for the afternoon to avoid the hottest part of the day.

Crowds: If you want to avoid the worst crowds, time your visit for the least busy times of year. In general, the months of September, November (except for Thanksgiving week), and January are the best time to visit if you want to avoid crowds. The busiest times are in the summer months, in October (thanks to the very popular Halloween Horror Nights events), Christmas and Spring Break.

Best Days to Visit: The best days to visit Universal Orlando are Thursday an Friday. The park will be at peak capacity on the weekend and tends to be busy at the beginning of the week as well. Avoid days with big parties like Halloween Horror Nights or Mardi Gras, unless you are attending these events; the park will be more crowded, and will close earlier than usual on party days.