Know Before You Go: Universal's CityWalk in Orlando

Orlando has a variety of theme park attractions that bring in millions of people every year. Universal Studios is among the theme park attractions that provide world-class entertainment, shopping, and dining experience. Many people are aware of Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios but often forget about all of the fun that can be had at the entrance of these parks, at Universal CityWalk.

A complex of dining, shopping, and entertainment sprawled around a gorgeous lagoon, with sweeping views of coaster skylines. 

Know Before You Go: Universal's CityWalk in Orlando

Universal Orlando draws 10 million visitors each year.

Universal Orlando sits on 108 acres and wants to expand on an additional 450 acres.

The vibrant downtown of Universal’s CityWalk is located just west of Florida's Turnpike and Interstate 4 convergence. It's exit 259 and south on I-4 one exit to S. Kirkman Road, then north to Major Blvd., go left and head two blocks west to Universal Blvd. Make a left, heading south, and follow the signs to CityWalk.

Enough to keep the family fed, busy, and entertained for days! From famous-named eateries (Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville, Bubba Gump Shrimp Company); music venues (Rising Star, Red Coconut Club); ethnic and regional cuisine (Antojitos Mexican, Pat O'Brien's, Bob Marley-A Tribute To Freedom); shopping and special events (New Year's Eve), CityWalk entertains everyone from the very young to the old-enough-to-know-better-but-who's-watching crowd. You can even catch a movie at the Cinemark.

See more here about dining options at CityWalk.

Universal's CityWalk Orlando, like the theme parks, is open 365 days a year. Unlike the theme parks, which close between 6 and 8 p.m., CityWalk is open until 2 a.m. Parking is available in the theme parks' 18,000-vehicle main garage at 6000 Universal Blvd. *Free self-parking is available after 6 p.m.

Before 6:00 pm
$27.00 for 2 hours
$75.00 for over 2 hours

After 6:00 pm
$26.00 for 2 hours
$75.00 for over 2 hours

*Now, there are a couple of ways to save yourself the cost of parking. With the exception of days Halloween Horror Nights takes place, parking is free for all guests beginning at 6:00 pm. Alternately, regular parking fees are reimbursed when you purchase two matinee movie tickets at Cinemark.

Whether you’re from out of town or a local ready to party the night away, using Uber, Lyft, or a local taxi company to get to and from CityWalk is an option as well. (Note that Uber has a bit of a premium surcharge for Universal.) There is a designated pick-up and drop-off section within the parking area for guests who use these services.

Aside from the parking fees, there is no entrance fee for CityWalk. You can stroll around and check out the shops, dine or find late-night entertainment at no cost.

Need tickets to Universal Studios or Island of Adventure click here!

The kids want to head right to the theme parks, but even they need a break, CityWalk is perfect for a little downtime. Kids and parents will enjoy a game of mini-golf on the Hollywood Drive-In Golf course, featuring two courses and interactive scenery at every hole.

Need some rest and air conditioning? Go catch the latest (and sometimes, a throwback!) flick at this 20-screen movie theater featuring Luxury Loungers complete with extendable footrests, cup holders, and plush seating. If you’re up for the ultimate experience, you can try the Cinemark XD auditorium, with a wall-to-wall screen, custom-engineered surround sound system, and a state-of-the-art projector that’s capable of displaying 35 trillion colors. And don’t forget – a couple of matinee tickets here earn you compensation for parking!

Jeeves Florida Rentals has the best part of your trip covered with our luxury resort homes close to CityWalk and all the theme parks. Our homes offer 2 to 14 bedrooms and amenities including game rooms, pools, golf course views, home theaters, and gourmet eat-in kitchens. Our staff's specialty is fulfilling every need and wish, whether it's buying your favorite groceries and filling the house fridge and pantry, hiring a personal chef for a special dinner, or getting the baby stroller, BBQ grill, or reservations at Orlando's best restaurants you need. Leave your next Orlando vacation to Jeeves, and make every day an event!