Walt Disney World / Universal Studios

About

Walt Disney World and Universal Studios Orlando represent the pinnacle of theme park entertainment, offering immersive worlds where fairy tales come alive and movie magic unfolds before your eyes. Disney's four theme parks - Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom - transport guests through beloved stories, from classic Disney animations to Star Wars adventures. Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure deliver heart-pounding thrills with attractions based on Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, and Marvel superheroes.

Beyond the rides, both destinations offer world-class dining, shopping, and entertainment. Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk provide additional experiences with restaurants, shops, and nightlife. The resort hotels at both properties create complete vacation experiences, with themed accommodations ranging from value resorts to luxury villas.

Planning is key for maximizing your visit. Both parks offer mobile apps for wait times, dining reservations, and park maps. Disney's Genie+ and Universal's Express Pass systems help skip regular lines. Consider visiting during less crowded periods like late January through early March or late August through mid-November for shorter waits and more comfortable weather.

The parks operate year-round, though Florida's climate means summer brings heat and afternoon thunderstorms, while winter offers pleasant temperatures and occasional cool days. Each season brings special events, from Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party to Universal's Halloween Horror Nights, adding extra magic to any visit.

Accessibility

Both Walt Disney World and Universal Studios provide comprehensive accessibility services for guests with disabilities. Wheelchair and ECV (electric convenience vehicle) rentals are available at all Disney theme parks, water parks, and Disney Springs, while Universal offers similar rentals at their parks. Most transportation systems at Walt Disney World Resort are accessible, including buses, monorails, and boats.

Attraction accessibility varies between the parks. At Universal, many attractions allow guests to remain in their wheelchairs, ECVs, or motorized scooters throughout the experience. Disney attractions typically require guests to transfer from mobility devices to ride vehicles, though wheelchairs can access attraction elevators and loading areas.

All Disney Resort Collection hotels feature ADA-accessible walkways, elevators, and complimentary resort transportation. Select Disney resort hotels, including Disney's Riviera Resort, offer rooms specifically designed for guests with hearing or mobility needs. Universal resort hotels similarly provide accessible accommodations and transportation.

Both destinations offer disability access services, including ride accessibility information and assistance programs. Guests can obtain detailed attraction accessibility guides at guest services or through the parks' mobile apps. For the most current accessibility details, including specific attraction modifications, assistive listening devices, and service animal policies, contact guest services at each park directly before your visit.

More accessible places in Florida

• Kennedy Space Center (Orlando)
• Universal’s Volcano Bay (Orlando)
• Discovery Cove / SeaWorld (Orlando)
• The Florida Mall (Orlando)
• Adventure Island (Tampa)
• The Dalí Museum (St. Petersburg)

Photo credits

• Walt Disney Presents theater entrance with marquee and level doorway at Disney's Hollywood Studios.: Benoît Prieur, CC0 (source)
• Alien Swirling Saucers ride with green flying saucer canopies and a level queue path in Toy Story Land.: Benoît Prieur, CC0 (source)
• Pizzerizzo pizza restaurant sign with flags outside a themed building at Universal Studios.: Benoît Prieur, CC0 (source)