Visiting theme parks like Disney World and Universal Studios is a highly recommended activity to do in Orlando. If you’re unsure which is the better choice, we’re here to help you decide with our Universal Studios vs. Disney World theme parks comparison guide!
Universal Studios vs Disney World Theme Parks
It is much easier to choose between the two options by considering the following points:. Let’s explore Disney World vs. Universal Studios theme parks.
The Castles
Both Disney and Universal have a landmark castle that serves as a symbol of elegance at each of their theme parks.
Cinderella’s Castle is a popular Disney icon that is 189 feet tall. This castle is located at the Magic Kingdom’s entrance.
Inside the castle, the Cinderella Royal Table provides a luxurious breakfast, lunch, and dinner experience. Across from Cinderella’s Royal Table lies the charming Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique. Children love this boutique as they are allowed to get makeovers to become knights or princesses.
On the other hand, Hogwarts Castle is a universal landmark that is 150 feet tall. This castle is located at Universal’s Islands of Adventure theme park.
As seen in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter book and film series, Hogwarts Castle is the main landmark of the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft.
The Theming
Both Universal and Disney are theme parks, which means that characters and settings are more important to them than actual thrills on their rides and performances.
Disney World has been inspired by the beloved Walt Disney World franchise. It aims for an approachable, carefree environment. On the other hand, Universal Studios offers theming that is centered around the entertainment sector, specifically from the film and television industries.
The Locker System
The policies of Disney World and Universal Studios about having personal things on rides are another significant distinction. While riding any of Disney’s rides, Disney allows you to store personal items and Disney park baggage at your feet. Additionally, you don’t have to pay to store your backpacks while riding rides in Disney. However, most of Universal rides prohibit the use of personal items, including bags, in addition to the paid lockers at the park’s entrance.
The Parking
Disney World’s two water parks and four theme parks feature an outdoor parking area; each of them has its own entrance. It costs $25 per day for regular parking. For visitors spending the day at Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, or City-walk, there is a single, enormous covered parking area. Regular parking costs $27 per day.
kid-Friendly
SpongeBob can be found at Universal Studios Florida, but the Woody Woodpecker and Curious George attractions are set to close. One wonderful feature of Universal Islands of Adventure is Seuss-land. On the other hand, Disney offers Mickey and Minnie, Fantasy Land at the Magic Kingdom, and all Pixar products for toddlers and young children. Disney World is the winner of this category for sure if you have kids.
The Customer Service
The goal of both Universal Studios and Disney World is to offer guests a perfect, seamless experience. Disney employees or Cast Members at Disney Parks are expected to make Disney come to life for their visitors and to be as welcoming and positive as they can. Universal employees or team members have the skills to give their guests a memorable and pleasurable experience.
Entertainment Spots
Disney World and Universal Orlando each have fantastic shopping, dining, and entertainment areas like Disney Springs and Universal City Walk, and they are considered the most beautiful places to visit in Orlando, Florida.
Disney Springs
Disney Springs is an amazing Disney entertainment area. It offers plenty of activities to enjoy, such as excellent dining options, retail stores, splash pads, performances, holiday celebrations, and even complimentary ferry rides to the different Disney parks.
Universal City Walk
Universal City Walk is a wonderful Universal entertainment spot. It offers amazing kid-friendly activities as well as some of the top free adult activities, including dance parties, New Year’s Eve, and Mardi Gras celebrations every year. The stores and restaurants at City Walk are more accessible than those at Disney Springs.
Briefly, City Walk offers the greatest dining options and restaurants at Universal. whereas Disney Springs offers greater shopping and shows.
Technology
When comparing Universal Studios vs Disney World theme parks in terms of technology, Disney is a winner, as it offers excellent technology, as seen in the My Disney Experience and Magic Bands. The Disney Genie+ system allows visitors to book rides and events in advance instead of waiting all day. However, you have to spend a $15 lanyard at Universal and wear your ticket around your neck all day.
Summary
When comparing universal studios vs Disney World theme parks, both offer amazing experiences. Disney World is more family-oriented with wonderful themes that attract all family members of all ages. On the other hand, Universal Studios is more about thrilling adventures for teenagers.
So, our answer to the frequently asked question: Universal Studios vs Disney World theme parks: which is better? is that it depends on the visitor’s preferences and age.
