Universal v/s Disney World
When it comes to the ultimate champion of Orlando theme park attractions, the debate between Universal Studios and Disney World is entirely subjective. In this article, we explore the similarities and key differences of these iconic, world-class theme parks.
Located just 9 miles apart in Orlando, both Universal Studios and Disney World promise to ignite awe and provide escapism. While both feature theme parks, water parks, shopping and dining districts, and offer thrilling rides and unforgettable family experiences, each park exudes its own distinct charm.
Disney World embraces a relaxed family atmosphere steeped in classic childhood fantasy and nostalgia. On the other hand, Universal Studios excels in immersive ride experiences inspired by blockbuster movies and entertainment. The choice between the two ultimately depends on your preferences and what resonates with you and your family.
Which Park is the Bigger?
Covering a vast expanse of 43 square miles, the kingdom of Disney World is comparable in size to San Francisco, easily overshadowing Universal Studios.
Exploring this sprawling metropolis of fun and amusement is an awe-inspiring experience, but its sheer size means there’s a lot of ground to cover.
In contrast, Universal Orlando Resort takes a more compact approach. Spread across 1.31 square miles, it currently comprises three major theme parks. The smaller footprint allows for easy navigation around the resort, and it’s known for its walkability. For those who prefer not to walk, the Hogwarts Express offers a magical mode of transportation between Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure from Hogsmeade station.
Both Disney and Universal offer epic water parks – Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon at Disney, and Volcano Bay at Universal. Additionally, both parks host nighttime shows and holiday celebrations, ensuring year-round entertainment for visitors.
Whether you’re drawn to Disney’s expansive kingdom or Universal’s intimate trio of theme parks, Orlando has something for everyone!
Which Park receive the most visitors?
With over 17 million visitors in 2023, Magic Kingdom at Disney World was the most visited amusement park not only in Orlando but in the world! With Islands of Adventure water park at Universal Studio the 2nd most popular amusement attraction for 2023, it’s safe to say Universal is here to stay as a competitor when it comes to the popularity stakes (source: Statista).
| Universal Studios | Walt Disney World |
| 21.8 million in 2023 | 49.25 million in 2023 |
Which park has more rides?
Undoubtedly, Walt Disney World boasts the largest number of rides among the two parks. With a staggering 173 rides to choose from, Disney World offers an unmatched variety of park attractions compared to the 32 rides found across Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure. However, Universal’s collection of thrilling rides provides a more action-packed experience, particularly appealing to older children and teens.
For thrill-seekers, it’s worth noting that Disney World features 8 roller coasters, while Universal Studios offers 6. Considering the size difference between Disney World and Universal, the latter offers more adrenaline-fueled fun per square mile.
Which park has the tallest ride?
When it comes to the tallest rides, there’s a close race between Walt Disney World and Universal Studios – but Disney World claims the win.
Standing at about 199 feet tall, Expedition Everest reigns as the tallest attraction on Disney property. It edges out Disney’s other close contender, the infamous Tower of Terror, by a mere 6 inches, with its 13-story drop.
For those venturing to Universal Studios, the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit coaster awaits, boasting a thrilling 167-foot drop that’s sure to get the adrenaline pumping.
With these thrilling, world-class rides promising to take your park trip to new heights, fans looking to “elevate” their Orlando vacation need not travel far!
| Tallest Rollercoaster ride | Theme Park | Height |
| #1 Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain | Animal Kingdom, Disney World | 199.5 ft |
| #2 Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit | Universal Studios | 167 ft |
Which park has the scariest rides?
When it comes to the scare factor, Universal Studios Orlando takes the crown. With six high-speed thrill coasters inspired by movies, the park offers a delightfully frightful experience. Among these rides, the scariest has to be the Jurassic World VelociCoaster.
As one of the newest additions to Universal Orlando’s lineup, the VelociCoaster provides an adrenaline-pumping adventure inspired by the Jurassic World franchise. It’s not for the faint of heart – even the most seasoned coaster enthusiasts are in for a wild and unforgettable ride. Located at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, this launched roller coaster will leave you breathless as it plunges riders from a heart-pounding height of 140 feet, hurtling through the air at mind-boggling speeds of up to 70 miles per hour in just 2 exhilarating seconds!
Once you’ve caught your breath from this “roar-some” experience, why not take on Universal’s other top scary rides, such as “The Incredible Hulk Coaster” and the height-defying “Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit”?
Which park has the best rides for toddlers and preschoolers?
Both Walt Disney World and Universal Studios Orlando provide magical experiences for toddlers and preschoolers. At Disney World, little ones can explore the enchanting world of Fantasyland with classics like “It’s a Small World” and “Peter Pan’s Flight.” They can also meet beloved characters at Disney’s character dining experiences and parades.
Meanwhile, Universal Studios Orlando offers equally captivating attractions such as “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” and “Shrek 4-D,” providing interactive fun for young ones. Additionally, Seuss Landing at Islands of Adventure offers a whimsical experience with rides like “The Cat in the Hat” and “One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish.”
Ultimately, the choice of which park is best for toddlers and preschoolers depends on your child’s preferences. Disney World offers more character interactions and storytelling, while Universal Studios Orlando features more immersive 3D rides. Both parks create unforgettable memories, ensuring a magical experience for you and your little ones!
Which park is cheapest?
Ticket rates at both parks vary, but both offer affordable 1-day theme park base tickets. Among Disney World parks, Animal Kingdom tends to have the cheapest 1-day base tickets. These tickets allow you to explore one designated park for the day, making them ideal for those with younger kids, budget-conscious travelers, or those new to Disney or Universal who prefer not to be overwhelmed by too many parks in one day.
While Disney World offers some of the cheapest 1-day theme park base tickets at Animal Kingdom, it also has the most expensive, particularly for Hollywood Studios and Magic Kingdom, surpassing Universal’s prices. Universal Studios generally sits in the mid-range for ticket prices. Both parks provide multi-day and park-to-park ticketing options, catering to a diverse range of budgets and travel itineraries.
For Disney World, the cheapest 1-day base dated tickets are typically for Animal Kingdom, ranging from $118.41 for adults (aged 10+) and from $112.98 for kids aged 3-9. EPCOT usually offers the second cheapest option, with tickets starting from $129.27 for adults and from $123.84 for kids. The most expensive 1-day base dated tickets are usually for Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios, ranging from $140.14 for adults and from $134.70 for kids.
In comparison, the cheapest Universal 1-day base date tickets start from $129.91 for adults and from $124.45 for kids.
Before booking your tickets, reach out to our dedicated concierge team for preferential park rates, special deals, and more! or you can book directly with us here
Which Castle is the Best: Universal Studios vs Disney World
At both Disney and Universal, majestic castles are the heart of enchantment and adventure. So, which castle is best? Arguably both promise pure magic and intrigue. Their styles set them apart and for that, there can be no clear winner.
| Battle of the Castles | Height | Access |
| Hogwarts’s Castle | 150 ft | Open to everyone with a valid park ticket |
| Cinderella’s Castle | 189 ft | Limited – only open to diners of Cinderella’s Royal Table or guests of the coveted Cinderella Castle Suite |
Disney’s Cinderella’s Castle, Magic Kingdom
Disney’s iconic Cinderella Castle, standing majestically at 189 feet, welcomes visitors to Magic Kingdom and serves as an eternal symbol of Disney magic. While its grandeur is visible to all, the castle itself offers exclusive experiences for a fortunate few.
At Cinderella’s Royal Table, guests can indulge in a high-end dining experience, surrounded by the castle’s enchanting ambiance. For young visitors, the nearby Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique offers magical makeovers, transforming them into princesses and knights.
One of the most coveted experiences within the castle is the Cinderella Castle Suite, an opulent accommodation available only by invitation or through special contests. This rare gem offers a truly magical stay, reserved for those who are exceptionally lucky.
Universal’s Hogwarts Castle, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade
In comparison, Universal’s 150-foot-tall Hogwarts Castle is the centerpiece of Universal’s Islands of Adventure. Unlike Cinderella Castle, Hogwarts warmly welcomes visitors into its magical world. Guests can explore the corridors of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, including iconic locations like Dumbledore’s office, the Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom, and the Gryffindor common room.
Inside the castle lies one of the park’s most thrilling experiences, “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey,” a 4D motion-simulator ride that takes guests on a magical adventure atop an enchanted bench with a highly sophisticated robotic arm.
Choosing between these iconic park castles ultimately depends on your family’s taste for enchantment and immersive experiences. However, the most inclusive-feeling castle experience has to be at Universal’s Hogwarts Castle, where all visitors are invited to roam the castle in spell-binding awe.
Which park has the most restaurants?
When it comes to dining options, Disney World takes the crown with an impressive 104 reservation restaurants spread across its four magical theme parks.
In comparison, Universal Studios offers a modest selection of four table-service restaurants between its two parks. While Universal also boasts numerous quick-service eateries throughout its grounds, there’s a special allure to sit-down dining. If you prefer sit-down dining experiences, Disney parks offer a greater variety, ensuring a memorable culinary adventure.
| Total Park Restaurants | Table-Service Restaurants | Quick-Service Restaurants |
| Disney World | 63 | 30 |
| Universal Studios | 14 | 54 |
Disney World Restaurants
For a culinary highlight, Disney World’s Takumi-Tei in Epcot stands out not only for its exceptional food but also for its refined service and unforgettable ambiance. It’s a dining experience that will leave you spellbound. For a more budget-friendly option at Epcot, Via Napoli is a family favorite, known for its authentic Italian cuisine.
At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, The Hollywood Brown Derby offers an air-conditioned haven and a delightful dining experience. Meanwhile, the Magic Kingdom boasts the Jungle Navigation Co. LTD Skipper Canteen, a unique eatery perfect for adventurous eaters looking to step away from typical theme park fare.
In Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Tusker House Restaurant stands out with its safari-themed character dining, allowing guests to see beloved characters in captivating costumes. For quick service at its finest, don’t miss Satu’li Canteen near Avatar Flight of Passage. For a truly luxurious dining experience, Victoria & Albert’s in Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa offers an award-winning, upscale experience suitable for special celebrations, provided you adhere to the strict dress code.
For park fans seeking the ultimate Disney World character dining experiences, check out our latest blog to help plan your trip.
Disney Springs adds to Disney World’s culinary diversity with a collection of 14 quick-service and table-service restaurants, each offering unique flavors and atmospheres. In contrast, Universal’s table-service options are primarily located in CityWalk, with 10 diverse world-cuisine restaurants to sample and enjoy.
Universal Studios Restaurants
If you’re at Universal Studios, you’ll find an array of dining options that will tantalize your taste buds. In Islands of Adventure, Mythos Restaurant, nestled across from Poseidon’s Fury in The Lost Continent, serves a fusion of Mediterranean, Asian, and American cuisine, ensuring a high-quality dining experience. For a diverse culinary journey, head to Confisco Grille in Port of Entry, where you can savor a variety of Asian, Mediterranean, and Greek flavors.
At Universal Studios Florida, Finnegan’s Bar & Grill offers a taste of a traditional Irish-American pub, while Lombard’s Seafood Grille in San Francisco provides waterfront dining with a rich history of serving delectable cuisine since the park’s inception. For those looking to immerse themselves in the “Wizarding World of Harry Potter,” the Three Broomsticks Restaurant in Hogsmeade promises a themed British dining experience.
Marvel fans shouldn’t miss the Marvel Character Dining at Cafe 4 in Marvel Super Hero Island. Additionally, CityWalk boasts 10 world-cuisine restaurants, including the tempting Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen, adding to the delightful dining choices available to enhance your Universal Studios adventure.
The Best Character Dining experiences:
Universal Studios vs Disney World
The answer really depends on the ages of your children and which characters your family hopes to meet. Knowing which characters your little ones adore and booking in advance will ensure you have the best dining experience possible. Universal Studios is generally better suited to older children, while Disney World caters more to younger kids. Both parks offer imaginative and entertaining character dining experiences, so read on for the details and get ready to say, “Bon appétit!”
The best Universal Studios character dining experiences
Universal Studios Orlando offers enchanting character dining experiences where beloved characters come to life right at your table. Younger diners can enjoy a delightful meal while mingling with iconic figures from Universal’s Despicable Me, including Minions, Gru, and the adorable Agnes. For a Jurassic adventure, head to Islands of Adventure for the Raptor Encounter Breakfast with Blue, an unforgettable experience featuring a life-sized Velociraptor! These character dining options add extra magic to your Universal Studios visit, making it a fantastic choice for families with young ones seeking an interactive and delightful mealtime with their favorite characters. Additionally, seasonal character dining experiences, such as the Grinch and Friends Character Breakfast, provide unforgettable “meet-and-eat” moments at Universal!
The best Disney World character dining experiences
Alternatively, if your little ones crave some Disney magic, Walt Disney World’s character dining experiences promise unforgettable family meals with cherished Disney characters. Top choices include Cinderella’s Royal Table in Cinderella Castle, where you can dine with Disney princesses in a regal setting, and Chef Mickey’s at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, a lively gathering with Mickey, Minnie, and friends. For a delightful experience at Epcot, visit the Garden Grill featuring Chip ‘n’ Dale, or head to Tusker House Restaurant at Disney’s Animal Kingdom to meet characters in their safari outfits. These character dining locations create lasting memories and add an extra dose of Disney magic to your visit, making them a must-try for families with young ones looking for an enchanting mealtime experience.
Whether you choose a Universal Studios character dining experience or a Disney World character dining experience, you’re guaranteed a meal to remember!
What can I expect from each park?
If it’s your first time at Disney World, you’re in for a truly enchanting experience. Disney’s magical realm includes iconic destinations like Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Epcot, and Hollywood Studios, as well as two fantastic water parks – Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon. Additionally, you can explore the vibrant Disney Springs shopping and dining district.
In comparison, Universal Orlando Resort offers Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay, a water theme park packed with thrilling aquatic adventures. Looking ahead, Universal Studios is set to expand with a DreamWorks-themed land opening in 2024 and a brand-new Epic Universe land planned for 2025, promising even more high-octane fun in the coming years.
The Disney World vs Universal Studios Atmosphere
When comparing the atmosphere of Disney World to that of Universal Studios, you’ll notice a myriad of contrasts. Disney World embraces an uplifting atmosphere of fairytale magic and wonder, with extensive theming inspired by world-famous Disney and Pixar characters, as well as an intergalactic vibe from its Star Wars franchise.
In contrast, Universal Studios offers a more evocative, if not thrilling, atmosphere. Its themes draw inspiration from Hollywood’s most iconic action movies and superheroes of the 20th and 21st centuries, including Jurassic Park, The Incredible Hulk, and the beloved Marvel characters. Universal is also renowned for its immersive experiences and rides, particularly within its two “Wizarding World of Harry Potter” lands, making it a go-to destination for magic enthusiasts.
How else does a Disney World experience differ from a Universal Studios experience?
Absolutely! Both Disney World and Universal Studios offer an extraordinary experience in every aspect imaginable. From the majestic park castles and overall park size to the entertainment, ride theming, and thrill factor, each park has its unique charm. Additionally, they excel in practical visitor experiences, such as line-skipping assistance, locker systems, parking facilities, and customer service support.
While Disney World caters to a wide range of ages, with a special emphasis on younger children, Universal Studios tends to cater more towards tweens, teenagers, and young adults. However, both parks are a paradise for the young at heart, offering an array of attractions and experiences that appeal to visitors of all ages. Ultimately, whether you’re a big kid or just young at heart, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at both Orlando theme parks.
Which park has the best characters?
That depends on the fan club! Younger visitors will naturally gravitate towards Disney World, whilst older children keen to keep their street cred in vacation photos and their social media platforms tend to go for the Universal Studios characters.
| Theme Park | Popular Character Meets |
| Universal Studios | Despicable Me family, including Minions, Gru, and Agnes, Jurassic Park’s Raptor “Blue”, The Grinch and friends. Harry Potter and friends, The Incredible Hulk and Marvel family, Pixar movie characters |
| Walt Disney World | Mickey, Minnie, and friends, Chip n’ Dale, Winne the Pooh and friends, Disney Princesses, the Prince, Beast, Mary Poppins, Darth Vader, BB-8, Chewbacca, Rey, Mr and Mrs Incredible, Woody and Toy Story friends, Stitch, Aladdin and Jasmin, Indiana Jones, Captain Jack Sparrow, evil Disney Stepmothers & Villains |
Universal Studios Character Meets
Universal Studios Orlando offers an exciting array of character encounters suitable for families of all ages. From beloved animated characters like the Minions from “Despicable Me” to the iconic duo Shrek and Donkey, there’s something for everyone. Younger ones can enjoy meeting characters from Seuss Landing, such as The Cat in the Hat, Thing 1 and Thing 2, and even the Grinch. For those who love classic monsters, there are photo opportunities with Frankenstein’s Monster, the Mummy, and the Bride of Frankenstein. Marvel fans will also be thrilled to meet superheroes like Spider-Man, Captain America, and Wolverine. Whether you’re in search of laughter or superhero excitement, Universal Studios Orlando’s character encounters promise unforgettable moments for the whole family.
Disney World Character Meets
At Disney World, meeting characters is a magical part of the experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re interacting with iconic figures like Mickey and Minnie Mouse, or classic princesses such as Cinderella and Belle, these enchanting encounters bring your favorite Disney characters to life. For toddlers and pre-schoolers, the charm of characters like Winnie the Pooh, Tigger, and Eeyore in the Hundred Acre Wood adds a touch of wonder to their day. The lovable pals from “Frozen,” Anna and Elsa, are another must-see for little ones. In Fantasyland, you’ll discover the delightful world of “Beauty and the Beast,” where Belle and Gaston are ready for photos and hugs. Disney World provides a captivating array of character meets, making it an ideal choice for young children to experience the magic of Disney firsthand.
Planning your Disney World and Universal Studios Packages
Whichever park wins your personal Universal Studios vs Disney World battle, the choice of where to stay is much easier. All of our Orlando Villas are close to both parks and benefit from access to incredible resort amenities. Our dedicated Travel Planners are on hand to help you find the perfect home for your Disney and Universal getaway.
Tailor-Made Concierge Services
You can easily optimize your stay at your Dream Vacation Home with our optional concierge services. Contact us to arrange tee times, golf lessons and equipment rentals to enhance your golf experience.
Off the greens, you can easily customize your vacation with private chef and bartender experiences, personal car rentals, housekeeping, attraction tickets, childcare, grocery packages, in-house spa treatments, and more. All Vacation Dreams ensures that every aspect of your stay at Golf Escape exceeds expectations, creating a truly exceptional Golf Orlando experience.
