You’ve booked the park tickets, made a list of your favourite rides, and meticulously planned your itinerary from day to day, but ahead of all the fun, there’s one more practical thing to consider - parking. Fortunately,
Universal Orlando Resort runs like a well-oiled Transformer and parking your car there can be effortless and stress-free.
Here’s everything you need to know…
Is parking free at Universal Orlando Resort?
Parking at Universal is only free if you are self-parking after 6 pm (excluding special events such as
Halloween Horror Nights) or if you are a Preferred or Premier Annual Passholder. Here’s a quick breakdown of standard parking prices to help you organise your daily budget:*
- Regular Self-parking: $35
- Prepaid Regular Self-parking: $32 (you must purchase this before the day of your park visit)
- Prime Parking: $50 - $60 (usually located closer to the escalators and main entrance)
- RV/Bus Parking: $45
Valet parking is also available with pricing based on your length of stay. If you arrive before 6 pm, expect to pay $32 for up to two hours, or $65–$75 for anything longer - and don’t forget to tip the attendant!
*Please note that prices can vary depending on the season.
Where can you park at Universal Orlando Resort?
There are two parking locations at Universal Orlando Resort: one for
Universal Epic Universe and one for the three remaining parks, so make sure you type the correct one in your GPS before you set out.
Epic Universe
1001 Epic Boulevard, Orlando, FL 32819
The resort’s newest theme park, Universal Epic Universe, features a large, flat parking lot divided into five clearly numbered sections - Explorer, Monster, Viking, Gamer, and Hero - each inspired by one of the park’s unique worlds. You’ll be directed to one of the sections by a parking attendant, before continuing on foot to the security checkpoint and entering through the park’s main entrance.
One thing to note about Epic Universe’s parking lot is that it is largely uncovered, however, if you purchase Prime Parking, you’ll benefit from the only shady spots available - a big advantage on those famously hot and sunny Florida days.
Universal Studios Florida/Universal’s Islands of Adventure/CityWalk/Volcano Bay
6000 Universal Boulevard, Orlando, FL 32819
The main complex and transportation hub at
Universal Orlando Resort comprises two huge multi-storey parking lots that provide access to the rest of the parks. Each section in the garage is named after a beloved Universal character, so you’ll find it easy to locate your car at the end of the day.
Once parked, you’ll be directed to the main security hub and Universal CityWalk, which feeds into the main theme parks.
Volcano Bay is accessed via a separate route that is clearly signposted before you enter the multi-storey car park. On average, it takes about 5 to 8 minutes to walk to the transportation hub, followed by roughly another 15 minutes along the moving walkways to reach the park entrances.
Accessibility Parking at Universal Orlando Resort
Universal’s Transportation Hub
If you require accessible parking, let the attendant at the toll plaza know when you pay. You may be required to show your blue badge or permit, then they may ask you to switch on your hazard lights before directing you to the appropriate lane.
Accessible spaces are typically located on Level 3, the same level as the moving walkways for easy access. Wheelchairs can also be hired from the transportation hub if necessary. Accessible spaces are not available to reserve, so even if you have prepaid parking, you’ll need to advise the attendant when you arrive.
Universal Epic Universe
Similar to the main transportation hub, accessible parking at Universal Epic Universe is allocated on arrival. Just let the attendant know when you arrive, and they will direct you to the correct area, which is usually closer to the main entrance for quicker and easier access.
Hints & Tips
- Take a photo of your parking spot, including the section character/theme and row number
- Arrive early for an easier experience with fewer queues at the toll plaza, more spaces closer to the entrance
- Plan for the weather! Wear hats and sunglasses, and make sure to carry enough water and sunscreen for the walk into the parks
- The walk can be anywhere from 10-20 minutes, so ensure you wear comfortable clothing and footwear
- Prepaying for your parking will speed up the process when you arrive and help reduce queues at the booths
- Keep a mental note of your return route back to your car so you can get back and relax as quickly as possible after a long day
Universal Parking FAQs
How do I prepay for car parking at Universal Orlando Resort?
You can prepay for parking on Universal’s website or using the official Universal Orlando Resort app, where you will receive a confirmation QR code to scan at the toll plaza.
Can I park at a Universal Resort Hotel without a room reservation?
Generally, if you’re not staying at a Universal hotel, you can only park at one of Universal’s on-site hotels if you have a dining reservation. If you are only visiting the theme parks for the day, you’ll be directed toward the main car parking garage or lot for your intended park.
Can I pay by card or cash for Universal Orlando Resort parking?
You can pay either way when you arrive at the parking lots. However, card payments (contactless) will generally get you in quicker, especially at busy times.
Are there electric charging stations at Universal?
Yes! You can park your electric vehicle (EV) at Universal Orlando Resort. The charging points are free to use, but they’re located within the Valet Parking area at Universal CityWalk, so standard Valet fees apply. Just let the valet attendant know on arrival that you require EV charging.
In the Epic Universe parking lot, EV charging is available in the covered section of the Viking parking area on row 301.
To start planning your trip, explore our Universal Orlando Resort holidays and find the time that works best for your family, your budget, and your holiday priorities. Memories start here.