Universal Orlando and Epic Universe from Champions Gate
Universal Orlando is a must for many families, whether it's for Harry Potter, superheroes, Minions or the newest park, Epic Universe. From Champions Gate it's an easy drive up I-4. The main thing to know is that there are now two separate Universal sites, each with its own parking, so it's worth planning which one you're heading to each day.
The two Universal sites
1. The original resort (the "north" site) - Universal Studios Florida - Universal Islands of Adventure - Universal Volcano Bay (water park) - Universal CityWalk (restaurants and entertainment)
These share the main parking garages at 6000 Universal Boulevard. From the garages, you walk through CityWalk to the park entrances.
2. Universal Epic Universe (the "south" site) Epic Universe opened in May 2025. It's around four miles south of the original parks and has its own surface car park, with the parking address 1001 Epic Boulevard. The main approach is from Kirkman Road.
Universal runs complimentary transport between the two sites (from CityWalk), but if you're driving from the villa, it's usually simplest to park at the site you're visiting.
How far is it from Champions Gate?
| Destination | Approx. miles | Typical drive |
|---|---|---|
| Universal Studios / Islands of Adventure (main garages) | 19–21 | 30–40 min |
| Epic Universe | about 20 | 30–40 min |
Both routes use I-4 East from exit 58. For Epic Universe you leave I-4 for Kirkman Road and follow the signs for the park. For the original parks, follow the Universal signs to the parking garages. I-4 traffic heading towards Orlando can be heavy at rush hour, so allow extra time on weekday mornings and check a live traffic app before you leave.
Parking
- Universal charges for parking each day, with standard and "prime" (closer) options. Prices change, so check the official Universal Orlando parking page for current rates and any pre-booking options.
- Epic Universe parking is separate from the main garages. Make sure your sat nav is set to the right address.
- Take a photo of your parking level or row and the nearest sign.
Tickets and planning
- Buy tickets from the official Universal Orlando website or an authorised seller. Ticket types (including whether Epic Universe is included in multi-day tickets) and prices vary, so read the current details carefully before you buy.
- To go between Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure on the same day (for example, on the Hogwarts Express), you'll need the right ticket type. Check this when you book.
- Download the official Universal Orlando app. It shows wait times and maps, and for some attractions it's how you join virtual lines.
Tips for families
- Arrive before opening. As at Disney, the first hour is usually the quietest. Check the official calendar for the day's opening time and aim to be parked 30–60 minutes beforehand.
- Child Swap. If someone in your group is too small for a ride, Universal has a Child Swap arrangement so one adult can ride while the other waits with the child, then you swap. See the official rides FAQ for how it works.
- Height requirements. Some of the bigger coasters have minimum heights. Look them up in advance so the kids know what to expect.
- Lockers. Some rides don't allow loose bags on board, so you may need to use lockers. Check the current rules on the official website.
- Express passes. Universal sells paid options to shorten queues. Availability and prices change daily, so compare them on the official site if you're short on time.
- Bring water and sun protection, and plan an indoor show or attraction for the hottest part of the afternoon.
Should you do Epic Universe and the original parks on the same day?
We wouldn't recommend it with children. Epic Universe is a full day in itself, and getting from one site to the other takes time. Most families find it more relaxing to give each site its own day and have a pool day in between.
Evenings at CityWalk
CityWalk, next to the original parks, has restaurants and entertainment and doesn't need a park ticket. It's good for an evening meal, but the parking charges still apply. Check the official site for any evening parking offers.
A sample Universal day from the villa
- Early breakfast at the villa, and leave about an hour and a quarter before the park opens.
- Park, walk through CityWalk (or straight in at Epic Universe) and head for your top-priority ride first.
- Use the app to check wait times and join any virtual lines.
- Take a break in the afternoon, either an indoor show or a relaxed lunch.
- Drive back down I-4 to Champions Gate for a swim before tea.
Check before you go
Ticket prices, park hours, parking charges, Express pass options and park rules all change, so please check the official Universal Orlando website (universalorlando.com) for the latest information before you book or travel.
Any questions about getting to Universal from your villa? Just ask us.