Universal Orlando Resort holidays promise "something for everyone." Some say that's why they are universally loved, yet the phrase doesn't do justice to 8 epic on-site hotels, 2 theme parks, a water park, and a
Universal CityWalk complex that combines the best shopping, dining, entertainment, nightlife and more.
You could spend your holiday here and not manage to experience everything - and believe us, we have tried! That's why this guide will help you find what you love the most at Universal CityWalk, whether you're after thrills, chills or everything in between...
Where is the Universal CityWalk?
Conveniently located, Universal CityWalk sits right in the middle of
Universal Studios Florida, making it ideal for a day out on its own or a pit stop between the theme parks. In fact, getting into the parks will require you to pass through CityWalk, so with the sheer amount of things to see, do and eat, you essentially can’t miss it! What's more, despite being packed with attractions, CityWalk is a much more peaceful place than the roaring, crowded, parks. So, if you need a break, a bite to eat or a stroll through some air-conditioned shops, CityWalk is where it's at.
What To See and Do at Universal CityWalk
There are endless possibilities at Universal CityWalk, but here are some of our favourite experiences...
Hollywood Drive-In Golf
Considered the ultimate fun for families, we think the mini-golf course will entertain kids and adults alike across two courses that are themed on the 50s and sci-fi horror films. It’s bigger and better than any mini-golf in the UK - that’s for sure!
Universal’s Great Movie Escape
Another fun activity for families, friends, groups and couples, this escape room has two themes to choose from: Back to the Future and Jurrasic World. Whichever theme you choose, you'll have to work together as a team to solve riddles and escape the clutches of iconic movie monsters and villains.
PS. Please note this is a ticketed event sold separately from theme park admission.
Hard Rock Live® Orlando
One for the grown-ups, this
Hard Rock Live® location not only has a bar with drinks flowing all day but also sees both up-and-coming local musicians and famous comedians performing on its stage as its evening entertainment.
Universal Cinemark
After being surrounded by loud noises, bright lights and crowds at theme parks, losing yourself in a film can become even more appealing. At Universal Cinemark, you find the best of both worlds. The theme park franchises can be found on the big screen, including new releases and a variety of other genres that you can enjoy with the classic additions of popcorn and snacks.
Dining Options at Universal CityWalk
Dining options overflow at CityWalk, where the usual suspects like Starbucks, Panda Express and Burger King are sandwiched between a huge range of both sit-down and fast-food eateries. No matter what cuisine you’re feeling, from Italian to Chinese, Mexican to American, you’ll find it here...
Bigfire
The latest addition to CityWalk’s eclectic dining scene,
Bigfire is your all-American restaurant of dreams. Burgers, steaks, and seafood are all cooked over smokey wood fires, which also applies to the delicious s’mores for dessert. 
Hot Dog Hall of Fame
For something quick, easy and imminently satisfying, visit the Hot Dog Hall of Fame, where you can grab a classic dog slathered in a combination of iconic toppings.
VIVO Italian Kitchen
Everyone loves Italian, and at VIVO all your favourite classics - along with a few scrumptious twists - are cooked fresh daily. Pizza, pasta, risotto and garlic bread are just the beginning of the menu, and there’s a nice wine list for the adults. What's more, we recommend VIVO Italian Kitchen for date nights and sophisticated dining.
Voodoo Doughnut
On holiday, you deserve to treat yourself. And thankfully, theme parks are big on desserts. Out of the variety of options, Voodoo Donuts is one of the most popular establishments, not only for its dessert delicacies but also for its vibrant, aesthetic design. This OTT pink building is prime real estate for a photo-shoot, and serves up baking hot, icing-drizzled doughnuts daily in a range of sweet flavours. If you’re not a doughnut fanatic, worry not, you can satisfy your sweet tooth with one of their pastries instead. 
Shopping at Universal CityWalk
You’ll want to wear good walking shoes and set aside a day for Universal CityWalk, where you can literally shop ‘til you drop - or if you're like us, fall into another souvenir store.
Universal Studios Store
There are plenty of souvenir shops dotted around the parks, but there’s always room for one more. If you’ve forgotten a gift to take home, need a collectable for yourself or just want to add more to your shopping basket then Universal Studios Store has everything from clothing to keyrings, mugs, magnets and everything in between. 
Universal Legacy Store
While we’re talking about cool merchandise, true movie buffs won’t want to miss Universal’s Legacy Store, which stocks all the usual souvenirs but specialises in memorabilia from all the best retro movies and animated franchises which you can even get personalised. 
Hart & Huntington Tattoos
Hart & Huntington Tattoos is a little off the bat, but you’d be surprised at its enduring popularity. Die-hard fans and those on an adult break can get a more permanent souvenir at this CityWalk tattoo studio, or if you’re not quite ready for that, just browse their cool T-shirts.
Parking for Universal CityWalk
Although parking is straightforward at Universal CityWalk, there are a few different ways to ensure that leaving your car for the day is as stress-free as possible. For those not planning to drive, don’t worry - Ubers and local taxis have a designated pick-up and drop-off area too. There are three main parking options: general parking lasts all day and costs $30, and prime parking is the same in principle but costs up to $60 and gets you a closer or more convenient space in the garage. 
Finally, evening parking is free after 6pm - so this is the best time to head to CityWalk if you’re travelling by car so that you can save your money for souvenirs! Before heading off to Universal CityWalk, make sure to snap a photo of your parking bay and garage number for when you return, as there are hundreds of spaces and multiple garages which can be very confusing, especially after too much sugar and a day hitting the shops.  
Universal CityWalk is a destination in itself, with enough entertainment, shopping and dining to keep you occupied each and every day. So, we recommend staying overnight at Universal Orlando Resort or nearby to make the most of this exciting hub of entertainment.
Ready to escape the everyday? Browse our Universal Orlando Resort Holidays 2024 & 2025 for a taste of adventure. 
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