How to Get the Best Deal on Your Universal Orlando Tickets

For families planning a trip to Orlando, the ticket prices at Walt Disney World can cause a real case of sticker shock. A single park, single day ticket is now over $80 per person. To experience some of Orlando's best theme park rides and attractions without charging up your credit cards, consider adding a few days at the Universal Resort.

There are actually two Universal theme parks in Florida, located within easy walking distance of one another. The first is Universal Studios, which features rides and shows that focus on the movies. There's a roller coaster themed after the Mummy movies, a Men in Black dark ride, and of course, a boat ride that features an appearance by Jaws. Islands of Adventure, while still themed around the movies, actually contains many more thrill rides and roller coasters. Fans are also eagerly awaiting the arrival of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, opening in 2010.

So how do you get the best bargains on Universal tickets? Start online. Tickets are almost always cheaper online than at the gate, and it also saves you from standing in long lines when you'd rather be exploring the parks. Guests can purchase a one day pass that admits them to both parks for only $84.99 online. That's about the same as a one park Disney ticket. For $99.99, you can purchase a two day ticket that allows you to hop back and forth to both parks as much as you want. This is a great bargain, and will give you a chance to really explore and ride as much as you want.

Planning to visit the Universal theme parks more than once during your trip? Check out the unlimited weekly pass, which includes admission to both parks. It's $124.99 at the gate, but if you purchase online, it's only $99.99. You must order it two days before you pick it up to get that special price.

Also, if you plan to stay on site at one of the Universal hotels, ask about free or discounted park tickets when you make your reservations. They often have specials in place that provide free admission with a three or four stay hotel stay.

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