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Is Disney or Universal more worth it?

If you're more interested in large rides like roller coasters, Universal is going to be your best bet. The same is true if you're a big fan of Harry Potter. If you don't mind some of the more family-friendly rides or you have little ones to bring along, Disney may be a better option.



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2023 Disney vs. And as a general rule of thumb, Universal is cheaper than Disney in almost every category, from tickets to theme park food, and the most noticeable being hotel rooms.

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Universal's Attendance Grew More Than Disney's in 2022, Report Reveals. For nearly twenty years following its 1971 grand opening, Walt Disney World remained an unchallenged titan in the Orlando theme park industry. But Universal Orlando Resort has slowly chipped away at Disney's market share over the past few decades.

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The Crowds Aren't So Bad Universal seems to be less crowded than Disney World these days, which may mean that you're not as stressed about your planning. During your trip, the wait times will likely be lower at Universal Orlando and you won't encounter quite as many long lines.

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If you're more interested in large rides like roller coasters, Universal is going to be your best bet. The same is true if you're a big fan of Harry Potter. If you don't mind some of the more family-friendly rides or you have little ones to bring along, Disney may be a better option.

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However, the Universal Studios age recommendation is a fairly mature 8 years-old. If they're younger they probably won't be able to appreciate much of the entertainment or be able to go on many rides, but families do have a fun experience when taking a trip together.

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If your family is partial to high-octane thrills, then Universal Orlando would probably be the better choice. Although Hollywood features some rides for thrill-seekers, such as the aforementioned Revenge of the Mummy coaster, Orlando boasts eight roller coasters between Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure.

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From blockbuster, thrill rides to shows that light up the night, there's something for everyone, and I would recommend going. Just make sure to do some research and plan your trip, especially if it's as packed as it was for us!

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Universal Studios Hollywood: General Admission ranges from $105-$116, depending on the day. Disneyland: General Admission ranges from $97-$124, depending on the day.

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Additionally, as a general rule, Universal is less expensive than Disney in practically every area, including theme park meals, tickets, and hotel accommodations.

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The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a themed area spanning two theme parks—Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida—at the Universal Orlando Resort in Orlando, Florida. The area is themed to the Harry Potter media franchise, adapting elements from the film series and novels by J. K. Rowling.

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Disney World offers two ticket categories according to age level: One is for ages 10 and older; the other is for ages 3 to 9. Admission is free for children under the age of 3. Read on to learn about the types of passes and what is/is not included.

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That said, Wizarding World (like most of the rides at Universal Studios) is probably best suited for kids 7 & up. Kids who are already well-versed in all things Potter will have the best time since every nook and cranny is inspired by J.K. Rowling's sprawling imagination.

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For that reason, we recommend devoting a minimum of a full day to each Universal Orlando theme park, especially if this is your first visit. Three days is ideal, particularly with a park-to-park pass, as it will allow you to fully explore each park and revisit your favorite attractions.

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You get to walk through Platform 9 3/4 and experience a magical train ride just like Harry Potter did, versus taking a long walk on foot between the two parks that contain the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Is the Wizarding World of Harry Potter worth it? Yes, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is worth it.

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So, a Disney vacation can still be worth it, if you know your “spending comfort zone” and plan accordingly to stay within that zone during your vacation, or save up in advance so your trip doesn't stress you out over finances, but an experience you can enjoy.

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Stay a few days at a Disney resort and visit those parks, and then move to a Universal resort for the rest of your stay. This will give you the full experience of both destinations. And if you stay at a Premier Universal resort, you will receive the Unlimited Express Pass for free!

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For the full Harry Potter experience, head to Florida Both Orlando and Hollywood offer guests an engaging Wizarding World experience. However, Universal Orlando logistically has more to provide in the way of themed options for visitors to explore.

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