Hello everyone!
Are you thinking about a trip to Universal Orlando Resort in 2019?
It's Kimberly from Get Away Today. We recently had a great visit with reps from Universal Orlando Resort, and learned about all the awesome new attractions in their parks.
Did you know that for the first time in five years, Universal Orlando will be adding a new Harry Potter themed attraction to the Resort? I couldn't be more excited!
Here are the details on that new ride, plus all the other new attractions at Universal Orlando Resort in 2019.
Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure opens June 13, 2019. This attraction is set to be one of the most highly themed and immersive experiences at Universal Orlando yet. Alan Gilmore, who worked on the Harry Potter franchise, has been involved every step of the way in the creation of this new experience.
The Motorbike Adventure will feature two seats; one on the bike itself and one in a sidecar next to it. You will have a different experience on the ride, depending on where you sit.
This roller coaster thrill ride will zip through the Forbidden Forest at speeds up to 50 miles per hour, and you will catch a glimpse of magical creatures such as cornish pixies, centaurs and Fluffy, Hagrid’s three-headed pup. Additionally, one new, never-before-seen creature will be lurking in the Forbidden Forest, so keep your eyes peeled!
Related: Tips for Visiting The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Fast & Furious – Supercharged
The great thing about the new Fast & Furious – Supercharged attraction is that the line itself is part of the adventure. Universal Orlando does a great job making so many parts of your visit interactive and entertaining.
To liven things up while you wait to ride, download the Universal Orlando app and see what fast and furious fun awaits you. You can also see some of the cars featured in the franchise while you’re queued, as well as props and sets from the movies. The ride itself is family friendly, and puts you in the middle of a street race.
The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle
There is more Harry Potter themed adventure at Universal Orlando this year! In the evenings, you can see Hogwarts Castle light up with projections and pyrotechnics.
It’s a very quick show, lasting only about five minutes, but that makes it easier to see it! If it’s too crowded during the first viewing, stick around and snag a good spot the next time the castle lights up.
The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle is directed by the Sorting Hat, who helps guests celebrate each of the four houses of Hogwarts.
Related: Is the Universal Orlando Express Pass Worth It?
Epic Cinema Under the Stars
Another nighttime show at Universal Orlando is Epic Cinema Under the Stars. As the name indicates, this show will highlight some of your favorite movies. Scenes from the likes of Jurassic World, The Fast and the Furious and more will be projected on to the water of Universal Studios Florida’s lagoon, accompanied by the soundtracks you know and love.
Voodoo Doughnut
There are lots of delicious dining options at Universal Orlando’s CityWalk, including Mexican food, seafood, American cuisine and more. The newest addition to the menu is Voodoo Doughnut, located on Universal Boulevard.
Voodoo originally hails from the Northwest, and this location in Orlando is the first to make an appearance on the east coast! Voodoo Doughnuts taste the very best when they’re fresh, so be sure to arrive with room to enjoy one… or two.
Their menu is eclectic and they’ll make you think twice about what belongs on a doughnut.
Related: One Day at Volcano Bay
Conclusion
There is a lot going on in 2019 at Universal Orlando Resort! This resort now has three parks, plus CityWalk – a shopping/dining/entertainment district. It's big enough for an entire family vacation.
Don't forget to buy your discount Universal Orlando Resort tickets at Get Away Today before you go!
Got a question? Ask us in the comments. In the meantime…
Happy Travels!
darlene miller
we are thinking on going to universal this summer never bend before , we have gone to Disney for 35 years and just went on a Disney cruise with the kids in april now thinking on universal in june or july , what is the best universal resort for the family we have a 12 and 13 yr old or anything else we need to know we would appreciate it
Allison
Hi Darlene! I am working with Universal experts at Get Away Today to generate a few recommendations for your family. We stayed off property when we visited Universal Orlando, but I think there are a lot of advantages to staying in a Universal resort hotel.
Kimberly Fidler
Hi Darlene! That’s a great question and we have a few recommendations for your family depending on what type of vacation you’re looking for.
If you want the best value, the new Endless Summer Resort opens June 27th and has a fun surf vibe. The Aventura Hotel just opened last year and is also a great value, with more of a modern, sleek look while the Cabana Bay Beach Resort has been one of the top-rated family resorts for quite a few years. The Cabana Bay has a retro style themed around the 50s and 60s and also has a bowling alley.
The next step up is the Loews Sapphire Falls Resort, which is themed after the Caribbean and considered a preferred hotel. While this property is great, the amenities offered at the premier hotels for $60 or so more a night may be worth it. The Loews Royal Pacific Resort, Lowes Portofino Bay Hotel and Hard Rock Hotel are all considered premier hotels, which means they come with the added benefit of Universal Express Unlimited Passes for your entire family at no extra charge.
The Loews Portofino costs the most, but feels like you’re visiting Portofino, Italy and has amazing restaurants and views. The Hard Rock Hotel offers underwater music at their hotels, restaurants, all kinds of rock and roll theming and may be best suited for teenagers. The Loews Royal Pacific Resort is the entry level hotel for the Premier category and may be the best option if you’re looking to get the most benefits at the best price. Plus, its South Seas theme includes a lagoon-style pool with white sand beach and even a classic luau held on certain nights.
Since your dates are over the peak summer travel time, the Premier class hotels may be worth it for the free Express Unlimited Passes for everyone in your family.
No matter which hotel you pick, we think you’ll love it! They are all either within walking distance to the parks (a big difference from Disney World) or offer a free shuttle or boat ride that are about seven to ten minutes at most. Let us know if you have any more questions on any of the hotels – we’d be happy to help with more details and make sure you pick the best one for your family!