Are you looking for the best things to do on a Universal Orlando solo trip and need help putting together a game plan?
Well, teamwork makes the dream work and I’m here to be your travel buddy.
With days worth of fun, food, and thrills, there can be so much to try to pack into your vacation at Universal Orlando. It can seem overwhelming.
But don’t worry!
I have put together the top 10 best things to do on a Universal Orlando solo trip to help you create your next epic solo theme park adventure.
So, keep calm, and let’s carry on. We have an amazing trip to plan!
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Listen to How to Go to Universal Orlando Alone Below on Podcast Episode 28
1. Use the Single Rider Line and Ride the Best Rides
Going to Universal Orlando alone can have some awesome perks, and using the single rider line definitely tops the list!
It doesn’t get much better than making your way past the long queues for FREE on some of the best rides in the park.
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do on a Universal Orlando Solo Trip
While others are waiting to ride alongside their bestie, you can zip your way through half the wait at times by filling in for one of the empty seats.
Between Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, you can find 15 of the best rides with Single Rider Lines on some days.
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2. Harbor Nights
Harbor Nights brings the land of la dolce vita right here to Universal Orlando, so you never even need to leave the sunshine state.
Several times throughout the year, Harbor Piazza’s food and wine event takes you on a journey to the Mediterranean Coast.
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do on a Universal Orlando Solo Trip
With the sounds of live music, the twinkling lights lighting up the harbor and gourmet wine and cuisine, it is an Italian-inspired night to remember.
It’s one of the best things to do at Universal Orlando if you are looking for a taste of the sweet life.
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3. Spend a Day at Volcano Bay
You can easily spend a full day having a splashing good time at Volcano Bay. And that is exactly what I recommend for this water-themed oasis!
Be sure to get there early to claim your favorite spot and beach lounger in the park for the day. It makes all the difference!
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do on a Universal Orlando Solo Trip
A 200 feet massive volcano, with every imaginable water slide and drop slide, crystal waters, and tropical treats, Volcano Bay is a paradise.
Here are a few must-dos for your day at Volcano Bay:
- Float your worries away in the Kopiko Wai Winding River
- Cool off and get soaked on the Krakatau Aqua Coaster
- Have fun in the sun at Waturi Beach
- Adrenaline junkies and thrill seekers will want to venture to Ko’okiri Body Plunge
- Hang out at The Reef and unwind from all the rides
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4. Party at Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras is one of the absolute best things to do at Universal Orlando when the party comes to town!
With the sounds of The Big Easy blasting and the nightly street parade entertaining with all things sparkles, beads, feathers, and fun! The energy is contagious!
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do on a Universal Orlando Solo Trip
The celebration is part of your park ticket, so you have no excuses but to let the good times roll and Mardi on!
The mouthwatering Cajun food isn’t included in the price.
But you cannot miss out on indulging in the soulful flavors of a good ol’ dish of shrimp gumbo or melt-in-your-mouth beignets.
WATCH NEXT: Top 5 BEST Food at Universal Studios UNDER $10!!! 🍟🍦🍻🍕
5. Do a VIP Tour
We all deserve a little bit of luxury and star treatment in our life!
The Universal Orlando Resort VIP Tour is a great splurge and a way to experience either one or both of the parks in a day.
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do on a Universal Orlando Solo Trip
With front-of-the-line access, discounts, reserved seating, and access to behind-the-scenes, it is a whole new way to see Universal Orlando.
It is one of the best ways to visit Universal Orlando for solo travelers if you are still building up your theme park confidence.
One of the best perks is the Universal Express Unlimited pass that comes along with it. So, the royal treatment lives on for the rest of your theme park day!
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6. Velvet Sessions
These one-of-a-kind legendary events have you letting the good times roll as you get up close and personal with some of your favorite music artists.
Performing live in the hotel lobby, legendary artists come out to Hard Rock Hotel, Universal Orlando for Velvet Sessions throughout the year.
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do on a Universal Orlando Solo Trip
Nothing beats a good old fashion rock concert!
It’s an awesome way to party at Universal Orlando for solo travelers because you are standing around with other music fans.
When you purchase a ticket to a Velvet Session, you get access to rock star treatment before showtime with specialty cocktails and yummy appetizers.
But the coolest part is just being steps in front of the legendary stars as they warm up before the show.
7. Do a Secret Tour
Shh, I have a little secret to share with you ThemeParkHipster.
Did you know there are some undercover tours hidden throughout Universal that are FREE?
Just ask a Team Member at your favorite ride and there just may be a hidden behind-the-scenes tour. It’s definitely worth asking about!
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do on a Universal Orlando Solo Trip
MiB Immigration Tour has some out-of-this-world photo-ops!
With sightings of animatronic aliens, fun documents and paperwork, and some futuristic space-like seats, you get a glimpse into another galaxy.
Plus, don’t forget to leave your human marking in the logbook.
VelociCoaster Paddock Tour is another secret tour with behind-the-scenes look at this monster of a ride.
While The Tonight Show takes you on a Race Through New York with Jimmy Fallon.
WATCH NEXT: 10 Things I’ll NEVER Do at Universal Orlando Again!
8. Hangout at a Lounge
If you’re looking to unwind with a little liquid therapy or just in the mood to lounge out, Universal Orlando has no shortage of hangouts to kick back and relax in.
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do on a Universal Orlando Solo Trip
Red Coconut Club is one of the best lounges to chill at if you are going to Universal Orlando alone.
This late-night lounge has different levels, so you can find just the right mood you are looking for. Plus, the holidays always bring a festive twist.
A few others you will want to lounge around in on your solo Universal Orlando trip:
- Velvet Bar has rock star VIP lounge vibes for a cool night out with live music
- Catch some of the best views with sake & sushi at The Orchid Court Lounge & Sushi Bar
- Swizzle Lounge is a colorfully vibrant and feel-good retro lobby lounge with vintage drinks
9. Party it Up in CityWalk Orlando
There is no better place to party it up than the Epicenter of Awesome, Universal doesn’t call CityWalk Orlando this for nothing!
The vibe at CityWalk is all about letting loose and having a good time. It’s full of lively nightlife with bars, dance clubs, and lounges.
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do on a Universal Orlando Solo Trip
If you are looking for where the party is, you will want to check out these late-night hotspots:
- Pat O’Brien’s is home to the dueling pianos and live music in a Bourbon Street setting
- Red Coconut Club is all about the tropics with tiki style and Latin vibes, you can dance the night away
- Rising Star Karaoke Club lets your inner star shine bright in this high-energy karaoke bar
- Bob Marley: A Tribute to Freedom is all things Bob Marley here from reggae music to Jamaican foods
10. Create Your Own Universal Orlando Tour
One of the best things to do at Universal Orlando is to eat your way through the theme park, trying all tasty and cool treats along the way.
So, the next time you are going to Universal Orlando alone, why not make your own Universal Orlando foodie tour?
Why This is One of the Best Things to Do on a Universal Orlando Solo Trip
Foodie adventures can make some of the best adventures!
Here are a few yummy Universal Orlando food tours you can try out:
- Butterbeer Tour: See if you can stomach every type of Butterbeer from hot, cold to even colder, frozen butterbeer and everything in between at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter
- Sweet Treat Tour: decadent crêpes at Central Park Crêpes, famous big pink donut at Lard Lad Donuts, and go back in time for a scoop at Schwab’s Rx
As you can see there are so many things to do at Universal Orlando for solo travelers. There’s no need to stress or fear!
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Things to Know Before You Go Universal Orlando Resort
Now that you know what to do on your solo Universal Orlando trip, let’s go through the most commonly asked questions below.
What time does Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure open?
Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure is open 365 days a year 9 a.m to 6 p.m. in the regular season and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the peak season.
Hours may change based on the busyness of the park.
How much does it cost to go to Universal Studios in Florida?
The cost of admission starts at $109, but I like discounts so I use Groupon to find cheap Universal Studios tickets.
Can you do Universal Studios Orlando and Islands of Adventure in one day?
You can but you won’t be able to every ride. I don’t want that to discourage you so I came up with a great itinerary for you.
While coming up with this Universal Orlando itinerary, I thought…
…how can I make you see and do all of the best rides at Universal Orlando Resort?
This list has some of the top hitting attractions on it, but you can eliminate or add any item you feel fits your type of day.
The key to accomplishing this one-day adventure is to arrive at the parks early.
If you have a special early entry option, then take advantage of it!
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My Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do on Your Universal Orlando Solo Trip
Now you’re all set to head out on one of the best days of your life full of fun, food, and fabulous thrills on your trip alone to Universal.
With this list of 10 best things to do on a Universal Orlando solo trip, you can easily create some of the most unforgettable days of your life.
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Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!
About the Author
Sarah Jordan is a solo traveler enthusiast, professional travel writer, and proud mama to her rescue dog Coconut.
With a love for destinations across the globe, she made Epcot her first theme park and still treasures her EPCOT World Showcase passport to this day.
After finally following her inner wanderlust, she discovered the freedom and empowerment that solo travel brings.
(Original Article Date: August 22, 2018/Updated on August 12, 2023)