If you learn anything about me from this blog let it be this: I like it fancy. I’m a fan of the finer things in life and think that because you can’t take your money to the grave, you might as well spend it on lavish theme park souvenirs. So when we go to the parks we like to do it right. I know these splurges won’t fit into every budget, but try and at least treat yourself to one of them! It’ll make your trip that much more memorable and fun!
Park to Park Tickets
You may be feeling like you don’t need park to park tickets, after all, you’re planning to do 1 park per day right? No big deal if you can’t jump from park to park, right? Wrong. So wrong. First of all, you want to be able to park hop, it opens up more opportunities for eating and really enjoying the parks. But more importantly, the only way to ride the Hogwarts Express to and from Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade is to purchase the park to park tickets. Starting at an additional $55 for 1-day tickets
Unlimited Express Passes
Never not express passes. If you happen to be in the park at the same time as us you will hear us shouting this as we pass you waiting in the standby line. Let’s be real, waiting in line at theme parks is the worst part. With express we have rarely waited more than 30 minutes in any attraction line. It is also the only way to ride the Mummy 6 times in a row in less than an hour which is necessary on any trip. Starting at $110 per person
Interactive wands
Potter fans know that it is a rite of passage for 11 years old wizards to visit Olivanders and be chosen by their wands. The interactive wands at Universal Orlando make the magic of the Harry Potter books and movies come to life. With your wand you’ll be able to cast magic all over Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade like a true wizard. Also, if you get chosen for the wand ceremony and you don’t buy the wand I will fight you. Starting at $55
On-Site Hotels
Okay, so did you get sticker shock from my Express pass recommendation? I know, I know they’re very pricey. But fear not! There is a way to get them for free and add another splurge to your trip at the same time: Stay on-site! There is a small caveat, only the three Premier Hotels offer free express passes included with your stay. But they are so, so worth it. If you’re not sold yet, you can read my full post on the onsite hotels here. Rooms start at $228 per night
My Universal Photos
If you’re like me, the only pictures you have of yourself are selfies and you’re not exactly adding them to a family photo album. Universal Orlando offers photopasses with photographers scattered throughout the park. Just hand your photopass card to a photographer and it is automatically added to your online account. Don’t be shy! Ask them to get multiple poses or have them get a few of your best angles. This also includes all of your ride photos which is a great way to see how many times you rode The Mummy today. Starting at $69.99 but don’t pay full price! Keep an eye on the website for sales around black friday and mardi gras!
Full Service Restaurants
The best thing you can treat yourself to on a busy park day is a nice sit down meal. Whether you choose full service dining for lunch or dinner you can’t go wrong in either park; Mythos & Confiscos in Islands of Adventure or Lombards & Finnegans in Universal Studios. Sure it’s more expensive than a quick service meal but it’s a great time to enjoy some AC, good food and conversation. Entrees start at $13.99
Of course, there are more splurges that I suggest adding to your Universal vacation like room service breakfast in bed and pedicabs to and from the resorts, but these are my top suggestions. What are your top treat yo-self splurges on vacation? Let me know in the comments below!