Universal’s CityWalk is the “epicenter” of the Universal Orlando Resort which features shopping, dining, and some of the best entertainment venues in all of the Orlando area. Fortunately, there is no admission cost to visit CityWalk, the only price you have to pay is admission inside the venues themselves.
What makes Universal different from other Orlando theme park operators is that it is fairly self contained and very pedestrian friendly. Although there is boat and bus transportation offered, guests can literally walk from one end to the other in short order. As a result, CityWalk is central hub between the theme parks, hotels, and the parking area which most guests pass through on their way to any of the resorts locations.
Hours of operation at Universal’s CityWalk vary during certain times a year but are typically 8:00 am to 2:00 am during most of the year.
From downtown Orlando, the best way to get to CityWalk is to take Interstate 4 to either the Kirkman Road or the Adventure Way exits. From the Orlando International Airport, guests should take the Beachline Expressway (528) west to Interstate 4, then head east (it’s actually north in this area) to the Universal Boulevard exit. You know you are getting close when you see the Krakatoa volcano at Universal’s Volcano Bay water park.
A number of off-site hotels also offer complimentary transportation to and from the Universal Orlando Resort. The pick up and drop off area is located just outside of the parking garages and beneath the walking bridge which provides access to CityWalk.
Garage parking is available just on the opposite side of Universal Boulevard. There are two multi-story garages that provide parking not only for CityWalk, but also for Universal Studios Florida , Universal’s Islands of Adventure , and Volcano Bay. There is an elevated walking bridge which provides access to CityWalk where guests will have to pass through a security checkpoint before entering the property.
Universal offers regular self-parking and upgraded “Prime” parking, which brings you closer to the waking bridge. Valet parking is also available with different pricing based on the time of day.
After 6:00 PM, guests do not have to pay for regular self-parking (not valid during Halloween Horror Nights). Additionally, there is free regular parking with the purchase of two matinee movie tickets (11:00 AM to 6:00 PM). Parking fees will need to be paid in advance and then reimbursed upon presentation of a parking receipt.
Universal also offers complimentary vehicle assistance to their guests when parked in their garages. Guests can notify one of the roving parking attendants or use a security call box located at the end of each parking section.
Beyond just shopping and dining, there are a number of unique entertainment experiences located at Universal’s CityWalk.
The Hollywood Drive-In Golf consists of two 18-hole miniature golf courses with completely different theming. Guests can choose between the Invaders from Planet Putt (themed after an alien invasion) or The Haunting of Ghostly Greens (themed after a haunted house).
The cost for an adult (ages 10 and up) for 18-holes is $16.99 per person and children ages 3 to 9 is slightly less at $14.99 per person. To play an additional 18-holes the price is $13.99 per person.
Both courses are loads of fun and offer differing challenges than the traditional miniature golf course.
Prices start at $49.99 per person or $300.00 per party for private groups of up to eight people.
Universal’s Cinemark features the latest state-of-the-art technology for its projection and sound systems with all 20 theaters offering 4K digital projection and RealD 3D. Guests will experience wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling screen and surround sound using the THX Certified XD experience.
Luxury seating is offered along with extendable footrests and cup holders, so you can enjoy hot food along with a full liquor bar at the concession stands.
Free parking is offered for matinee movies showing between 11:00 am to 6:00 pm (with two or more tickets, restrictions apply). Be sure to check the “Dinner and a Movie” deal that Universal offers which starts from $28.12 per person. Guests can enjoy a movie as well as dinner from a select menu at certain CityWalk restaurants.
Hard Rock Live Orlando is one of Orlando’s top venues for music performances and live events. With seating for up to 3,000 guests, Hard Rock Live brings in some of the biggest artists & entertainers and offers the latest in sound and lighting technology.
In addition to public events, Hard Rock Live is used for corporate functions and personal events likes weddings and parties.
