Travel
Hotel
Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel
Guests of the Universal Helios Grand Hotel will have direct walk-up access to Universal Epic Universe via an exclusive entrance. This dedicated entry point allows Helios Grand Hotel guests to bypass the main entrance lines, providing a more convenient and seamless experience when accessing the park. Parking is around $36 per night plus tax.
Hotel
Universal Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites
Provides one hour Early Park Admission. Guests can utilize the resort's free shuttle service. A dedicated bus will take guests directly to Epic Universe, with the journey typically taking about 15 to 25 minutes. Parking is around $32 per night plus tax.
Hotel
Universal Endless Summer Resort - Dockside Inn and Suites
Provides one hour Early Park Admission. Guests can utilize the resort's free shuttle service. A dedicated bus will take guests directly to Epic Universe, with the journey typically taking about 15 to 25 minutes. Parking is around $26 per night plus tax.
House Or Rental
Airbnb
Orlando is full of spacious Airbnb options—many with 6 bedrooms and 6 bathrooms (or more!), perfect for groups or families traveling together. If you’d prefer a shared vacation home over a hotel, this is a great option to relax, spread out, and even enjoy private amenities like pools and game rooms. Ideal for those who want to turn the trip into a mini getaway!
Rental Car
Driving from South Florida to Orlando
Orlando is about 215 to 230 miles from Fort Lauderdale. Driving: Takes around 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on traffic. There are many routes to get to Orlando we recommend the Turnpike: Florida Turnpike Service Plazas (South to North) 1. Pompano Beach Service Plaza: Milepost 65 – Pompano Beach 2. West Palm Beach Service Plaza: Milepost 94 – Lake Worth 3. Port St. Lucie/Fort Pierce Service Plaza: Milepost 144 – Port St. Lucie 4. Fort Drum Service Plaza: Milepost 184 – Yeehaw Junction 5. Canoe Creek Service Plaza: Milepost 229 – St. Cloud 6. Turkey Lake Service Plaza: Milepost 263 – Orlando 7. Okahumpka Service Plaza: Milepost 299 – Wildwood. Note: No Tesla Supercharger These service plazas are strategically located to provide convenient stops for fuel, food, restrooms, and relaxation during your drive. They are accessible from both directions of the Turnpike and are equipped with various amenities to enhance your travel experience.
Flight
Orlando International Airport (MCO)
The drive from Orlando International Airport (MCO) to Universal Studios Florida typically takes about 20–25 minutes, covering a distance of approximately 17–18 miles (27–29 km), depending on your exact starting point and route. 🚗 Driving Directions A common route involves: 1. Taking FL-528 W (Beachline Expressway) west from the airport. 2. Merging onto I-4 W toward Tampa. 3. Exiting at Universal Blvd (Exit 75A). 4. Following signs to Universal Studios Florida. This route is straightforward and well-signposted. 🕒 Travel Tips • Peak Hours: Avoid traveling between 7:00–9:00 AM and 4:00–6:00 PM to minimize traffic delays. • Off-Peak Hours: Traveling between 10:00 AM–3:30 PM or after 7:00 PM can offer a smoother journey.
Train
Brightline
We’ve taken the Brightline many times from Fort Lauderdale to Orlando and highly recommend it! When booking tickets in advance, we typically leave our car at the Fort Lauderdale Brightline station, where parking averages around $15 per day. Just a heads-up parking prices are higher if you pay the day of your trip. You'll arrive at the Orlando International Airport (MCO) station, and from there, it's just a Uber or Lyft ride to your hotel.
Travel Note
Parking Information
There will be parking fees to consider: whether you're parking at, at Brightline, your hotel or at Epic Universe. General parking at Epic Universe costs $32 plus tax, while premium parking is available for $50. If you're planning to visit the Helios Grand Hotel (for drinks, dinner, or just to explore), non-hotel guests can park directly at Helios—but with conditions. To avoid the $125 parking fee, guests must spend a minimum of $50 at Bar Helios or $75 at Flora Taverna. Alternatively, you can park in the main Epic Universe lot and take a 15-minute walk to the hotel.