Universal Orlando Resort has moved to a new date-based ticket pricing model which charges more on expected busy days. This is a pretty drastic change from Universal’s previous pricing model, but similar to how Walt Disney World is now pricing the parks. We’ll take a closer look into the new ticket system, and also dig into the special deal for Florida residents, as well as a telling update on the closure of some of Universal Orlando’s hotel offerings.
Date-Based Tickets
Universal Orlando tickets will now be valid for specific dates, and multiday tickets will be priced based on the first date of entry. Like Walt Disney World’s ticketing structure, which was rolled out two years ago, there will be days that will be more expensive to visit than others, and some days will show added value.
For example, the prices below are for two-park one-day tickets (good for both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure in the same day):
Both Universal and WDW utilize this pricing method to even out attendance on days that would be typically more crowded or less crowded. There are many benefits to leveling out crowds. The theory is that shifting crowds from the busiest days to less busy days makes the park experience better and adds consistency to the guest experience. It’s also good for the bottom line as happy guests spend more money.
Universal has specified that if you purchase a ticket for a day and then want to change it, you will be able to do so at no cost, provided the new day is the same price or less than what you already paid. If you wish to change to a day that has a higher cost to visit, you will be allowed to pay the difference. All changes must be done in advance through a new self-service Guest Services portal that Universal plans to roll out in the coming days.
Universal Orlando Florida Special
While the new date-based pricing model has already gone into effect, there’s a new deal for Florida residents that’s quite appealing. This special promotional ticket will get you into Universal Orlando and Islands of Adventure every day through Christmas Eve for the cost of a single day. Now that’s a deal!
If you’re a Florida resident and interested in this limited-time offer, you’ve got until September 30 to buy this ticket. This offer can’t be purchased at the gate, so be sure to buy it online before deciding to make the trip to Universal Orlando.
Universal Slimming Down Hotels
It’s been a tough time to operate a theme park. Although Universal Orlando has been open for a few months now, it appears that the demand isn’t exactly what they were hoping for. Starting August 21, two of the resort’s hotels — the Loews Sapphire Falls Resort and Universal’s Aventura Hotel — will be shutting down temporarily. This decision comes from Loews Hotels in an attempt to “consolidate hotel operations through current conditions.” Guests with reservations at either Sapphire Falls or Aventura will be accommodated at other open hotels.
The closure of these hotels brings Universal’s hotel count down considerably because Portofino Bay and the Dockside Inn are also not open. The only Universal hotels operating are The Hard Rock Hotel, Lowe’s Royal Pacific Hotel, Universal’s Cabana Bay Resort, and Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn.
Save On Future Travel
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Let’s Hear From You
What do you think of Universal Orlando’s new date-based pricing model? Are you interested in the promotional ticket offer? Did you expect Universal’s hotels to consolidate their operations this quickly? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
For more news and photos from Universal Orlando, please be sure to read our Universal Update below:
Universal Orlando Update – Horror Hack, Ride Cuts & Lonely Anniversaries