If you’re headed to Central Florida for a vacation, you may be trying to decide which theme park (or parks) you should visit — Disney World vs. Universal Studios. Should you choose one or the other? Should you do both? And, how do you decide which is better for you and your family? I’m an Annual Passholder at both — and for good reason! There are perks to visiting both! So, let’s put the two theme park giants to the test and compare their similarities and differences to help you decide where you should go on your next vacation!

Disney World vs. Universal Studios: How They’re Similar

Though Walt Disney World and Universal Studios are vastly different, the two have plenty of similarities!

They both:

• Are located in Orlando, Florida
• Feature multiple theme parks
• Have water park(s)
• Feature multiple on-site, themed hotels
• Have a shopping & dining district with more to do outside of the parks
• Offer free transportation throughout their resort

Where the differences really break down are in the details of each. Yes, they both have theme parks, but does one theme park fit your style more than another? Let’s dive into the differences between everything Disney World vs. Universal Studios!

Parks: Disney World vs. Universal Studios

When it comes to theme parks, many guests are after a specific theme. While being able to immerse yourself in your favorite movies is important in choosing where you’ll find the most enjoyment, it shouldn’t be the only factor! When spending your money and time, you want to make sure you get the most out of it.

So, what are the distinct differences between the park offerings at Walt Disney World vs. Universal? Let’s find out.

Walt Disney World

Disney World consists of four theme parks: Disney’s Animal Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Magic Kingdom.

Additionally, Disney has two water parks: Disney’s Blizzard Beach and Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon. And, beyond the actual parks, Disney Springs is the shopping and entertainment district within Walt Disney World, which is a destination of its own!

If you are heading to Orlando for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Walt Disney World is automatically your choice. Mickey Mouse and his pals are showcased throughout every Disney Park, and if you’re looking for Buzz Lightyear and Sheriff Woody or Disney Princesses like Belle, Cinderella, or Princess Tiana, Disney World is your place.

Just keep in mind that Disney World is a massive resort and it’ll take some time to be able to do it all. We recommend planning at least a 4-5 day vacation if you want to experience it all.

Universal Orlando

Universal Studios currently has two theme parks: Universal Studios Orlando and Islands of Adventure. However, in May 2025, the resort will grow to include a third theme park: Epic Universe. Universal Studios also has one water park, Volcano Bay.

Universal’s City Walk is similar to Disney Springs in that it is home to all shopping and entertainment within Universal Orlando.

If you come to Orlando with the hopes of seeing The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, you know you are heading to Universal Studios. If Jurassic Park, Shrek, Despicable Me, Dr. Suess, or the Simpsons interest you, then Universal Studios is also your pick.

Just keep in mind that Universal Orlando is on the smaller side compared to Disney World, so you can get away with a shorter 3-4 day vacation and still feel like you’ve experienced it all.

Attractions: Disney World vs. Universal Studios

Both resorts have theme parks, which means, of course, they have rides! Each resort offers thrilling rides that immerse you in the worlds of your favorite characters. However, one may be better suited for you based on the ages of the people in your party and how much of a thrill you’re looking for.

Walt Disney World

Between its four theme parks and two water parks, Walt Disney World houses over 170 attractions! Rides include slow rides, thrill rides, 3D/4D rides, water rides, and shows.

What sets Disney apart from Universal with attractions is the amount of attractions accessible to the entire family. Many rides at Walt Disney World do not have a height requirement so even infants can go on them. Additionally, the restrictions on rides that do have height restrictions are much lower than those within Universal.

Here’s a look at the height requirements for attractions in each park to give you an idea of how much you’ll be able to do with younger children. Just keep in mind that these numbers include rides, shows, and other experiences that Disney considers an “attraction.”

Magic Kingdom

• 27 Attractions with NO height requirement
• 1 Attraction with a 32-inch height requirement
• 1 Attraction with a 35-inch height requirement
• 1 Attraction with a 38-inch height requirement
• 2 Attractions with a 40-inch height requirement
• 1 Attraction with a 44-inch height requirement
• 1 Attraction with a 48-inch height requirement

EPCOT

• 15 Attractions with NO height requirement
• 3 Attractions with a 40-inch height requirement
• 1 Attraction with a 42-inch height requirement

Hollywood Studios

• 3 Attractions with NO height requirement
• 1 Attraction with a 32-inch height requirement
• 2 Attractions with a 38-inch height requirement
• 3 Attractions with a 40-inch height requirement
• 1 Attraction with a 48-inch height requirement

Animal Kingdom

• 13 Attractions with NO height requirement
• 1 Attraction with a 38-inch height requirement
• 1 Attraction with a 40-inch height requirement
• 2 Attractions with a 44-inch height requirement

This means that the entire family can experience more than 70% of the attractions together at Disney Word! Plus, the rides tend to be more family-friendly. However, while the thrill rides are sure to get your heart rate going, they don’t necessarily compare to the bigger thrills found at the Universal Parks.

Universal Orlando

Since Universal Studios is only home to two theme parks and a water park, there are significantly fewer attractions for guests to experience (of course, that will change once Epic Universe opens in 2025). BUT! That doesn’t mean you don’t get your money’s worth. Though there are attractions available to young children, Universal’s attractions cater more to older kids and adults. The tweens and above will thrive on the number of thrill rides, 3D/4D screens, and themed experiences Universal provides!

Here’s a look at the height requirements for attractions in each park to give you an idea of how much you’ll be able to do with younger children. Just keep in mind that these numbers include rides, shows, and other experiences that Universal considers an “attraction.”

Universal Studios Orlando:

• 4 Attractions with NO height requirement
• 1 Attraction with a 34-inch height requirement
• 1 Attraction with a 36-inch height requirement
• 5 Attractions with a 40-inch height requirement
• 2 Attractions with a 42-inch height requirement
• 1 Attraction with a 48-inch height requirement
• 1 Attraction with a 51-inch height requirement

Islands of Adventure

• 4 Attractions with NO height requirement
• 5 Attractions with a 36-inch height requirement
• 1 Attraction with a 40-inch height requirement
• 2 Attractions with a 42-inch height requirement
• 2 Attractions with a 48-inch height requirement
• 1 Attraction with a 51-inch height requirement
• 1 Attraction with a 52-inch height requirement
• 1 Attraction with a 54-inch height requirement

As you can see from the height requirements, Universal’s rides are great for roller coaster and simulator lovers rather than slow boat ride lovers. In fact, the newest ride in Islands of Adventure, the Jurassic Park-themed VelociCoaster, is the fastest coaster at any Universal park, hitting speeds of 70 mph!

One thing to note about Universal’s “no height requirement” rides is that, with the exception of the Hogwarts Express, handheld infants are not permitted even if there is no height requirement. This is a drastic difference from Disney World, where babies as small as newborns can ride on the lap of an adult on any non-height-requirement ride.

Hotels: Disney World vs. Universal Studios

Both Walt Disney World and Universal offer multiple hotel options for guests interested in staying on their property. Plus, many onsite hotels offer perks for the parks for both resorts!

Walt Disney World

There are over twenty hotels on Disney World property, giving guests a wide range of pricing and theming options to choose from. Hotels are located around the property to offer guests different types of accommodations depending on their trip needs.

Hotels are separated into three categories:

• Value Resorts (Averaging $250 per night)
• Moderate Resorts (Averaging $400 per night)
• Deluxe Resorts (Averaging $650+ per night)

Complimentary transportation to all theme parks and Disney Springs is offered at each hotel via shuttle bus, boat transportation, the Disney Skyliner, or the Monorail depending on where you stay.

Guests staying on Disney property, regardless of the category, can book Lightning Lanes (Disney’s paid skip-the-line services) up to 7 days before arrival. This is a huge perk, as non-resort guests can’t book Lightning Lanes until 3 days out. Additionally, resort guests can enter all four theme parks up to thirty minutes before non-resort guests any day of the week with Early Theme Park Entry.

Guests staying at Deluxe Resorts also have access to Extended Evening Hours at select parks on select days of the week.

Universal Orlando

Currently, Universal offers eight hotel options on their property (though this will expand in 2025). The hotels are broken up into three categories:

• Value Inns & Suites (Averaging $250 per night)
• Prime Value (Averaging $300 per night)
• Signature Collection (Averaging $400-$800 per night)

All hotels provide complimentary transportation to Universal City Walk and theme parks via shuttle bus, waterway taxi, or walking paths. Additionally, a huge perk with Universal Orlando hotels is that all Signature Collection Hotels (with the exception of Sapphire Falls Resort) include a complimentary Express Pass for everyone in your party! This amazing skip-the-line perk can be more economical than purchasing the express pass individually.

Guests staying on the property can also access one or both theme parks up to an hour early. Just be sure to check the park calendar to see which park if offering early access on your planned days.

Dining: Disney World vs. Universal Studios

Walt Disney World

Over the years, Disney World has become quite the “foodie” destination. Disney Springs offers over sixty quick service and table service restaurants in addition to all the theme park and resort hotel options. Reservations are strongly recommended through the My Disney Experience app, as walk-up availability is extremely limited.

Some of the world’s most renowned chefs, such as Guy Fieri, Iron Chef Morimoto, Jose Andres, George Miliotes, Wolfgang Puck, and Maneet Chauhan, have restaurants at Disney Springs. There are even two Michelin-starred restaurants on Disney World property!

In Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom you’ll find standard park fare, such as burgers, chicken, pizzas, and salads. But EPCOT brings food to another level, as guests can travel around the World Showcase and sample quick service and table service options unique to each specific country. Fish and Chips in the United Kingdom, sushi in Japan, bratwurst in Germany…you could spend all day just eating!

Dining at the resorts is another great way to enjoy delicious food without having to go far from your hotel room.

Universal Orlando

Universal’s City Walk is the main dining and entertainment hub throughout the resort, but Universal is not as well known for its food as Disney. CityWalk offers nearly thirty different food options, and many are open late. Reservations are recommended through Universal’s app or website, but walk-up availability may be available.

You’ll find quick service options anywhere, such as Moe’s Southwest Grill or Panda Express, as well as unique table service options, such as Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar, a restaurant that combines burgers and sushi to create one-of-a-kind meals.

Inside the parks, most restaurants are fast food style and offer standard theme park fare such as pizzas, burgers, sandwiches, fries, etc. The exception to the standard fare is The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which is highly regarded as the best food throughout both theme parks. It offers English fare such as fish and chips and bangers and mash.

Additionally, all resorts have quick food options on site and all Signature resorts offer table service restaurants. Don’t sleep on the resort dining locations during your trip! These restaurants have some of the best food on the property and you don’t have to stay there to enjoy them.

Ease of Planning: Disney World vs. Universal Studios

Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World Resort is spread out over 43 square miles of land! For comparison, that’s roughly the same size as the entire city of San Francisco, California. Due to the resort’s size, most locations require transportation to and from. Disney offers complimentary bus transportation, boat transportation, the Disney Monorail, or the Disney Skyliner, depending on the location.

Disney does require advanced theme park reservations to attend any of the four theme parks for select guests, though the water parks do not require any reservations for anyone. Additionally, guests staying at a Disney World Resort hotel can book Lightning Lanes for eligible rides (Disney’s skip-the-line service) up to seven days before their arrival date or up to three days before your park visit for all other guests. Dining reservations can (and should) be booked up to 60 days in advance, as popular restaurants throughout the resorts often book up quickly.

While you can definitely just show up and “wing it” at Walt Disney World it is not recommended. We usually recommend planning your trip at least 3-6 months in advance to have the best experience. So, if you want a vacation you don’t have to plan, Universal might be the better pick.

Universal Orlando

Universal Studios is much more compact than Disney World and is spread out over roughly two miles of land. That’s a huge difference! The small size results in easy walkability and you only have to navigate one parking lot for both theme parks, water parks, and City Walk. Plus, each theme park gate is only a 5-10 minute walk from each other so hopping from one park to the other is easy and doesn’t take much time out of your day.

Universal does not require theme park reservations for any of its parks. Unlike Disney, Universal offers one Express Pass (its version of the skip-the-line pass) that guests can purchase and add to their ticket at the time — even on the same day. With the Express Pass, guests do not have to reserve times to arrive at the express lanes; you just show your express pass and walk through! This involves much less day-by-day, hour-by-hour planning, giving guests more freedom to move at their own pace throughout the parks.

Though Universal is less work when it comes to at-home planning, Disney World might be a better option for guests who want to schedule and plan out their days to ensure they don’t miss anything.

Cost: Disney World vs. Universal Studios

Probably the number one thing guests consider when planning their travels is cost! So, which theme park vacation is more budget-friendly? Let’s compare.

Walt Disney World

A 1-Day, 1-Park ticket to a Walt Disney World theme park ranges from $119-$200+ per ticket, depending on which park you want to visit. A park hopper (which allows you to visit multiple parks on the same day) is $240+ per ticket. Note that children 2 years of age and under are free and do not require a park ticket.

While these prices can be steep for an extended vacation, Disney does offer Florida resident deals and multi-day ticket promotions throughout the year, which can save you money. In addition, a free Disney Dining Plan is sometimes offered when booking a vacation package, which covers most meals during your stay. That’s a huge savings!

If you are booking yourself, be sure to check the website periodically for any promotional updates. If you are booking through a travel agency, they’ll watch for deals for you! We recommend working with our travel partners MEI Travel to be sure you’re getting the best prices.

Universal Orlando

A 1-Day, 1-Park ticket to either Universal Studios Orlando or Islands of Adventure starts at $119 per ticket. However, the 2-Park, 1-Day ticket (which is the equivalent of Disney’s park hopper option) starts at $174 per ticket. Note that children 2 years of age and under are free and do not require a park ticket.

While the multi-park ticket is cheaper at Universal, remember that Disney offers four theme parks you can visit, while Universal only offers two. Additionally, if you want to experience both Wizarding World of Harry Potter lands, you MUST have the 2-Park ticket.

Is One Better Than the Other?

So, is Walt Disney World better than Universal Studios? Overall, this comes down to preference. Here are a few things to consider:

Walt Disney World will suit you best if:

• You are traveling with toddlers or young children
• You want Mickey Mouse, Star Wars, and other Disney character/movie experiences
• You want to spend 5+ days on vacation without getting bored
• You want high-quality food

Universal Studios will suit you best if:

• You have teenagers or thrill-loving kids/adults
• You want to see The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
• You want a small, easy-to-navigate vacation
• You are planning a long weekend trip
• You want nightlife entertainment such as clubs/karaoke bars

Comments

Have you vacationed at Walt Disney World or Universal Studios? Which one do you prefer? Let us know in the comments!