As one of the most popular theme parks in the world, Costco Universal Studios tickets offer an entertainment paradise for thrill-seekers and movie buffs alike. Each year, more and more people visit the Florida resort, with reports noting that, in 2022, Universal Orlando’s Islands of Adventure drew the third-highest number of visitors in America and fifth worldwide.
However, with increasing interest comes increasing ticket prices. Plus, there are several Universal Studios ticket options available online these days, so it’s hard to know where to get the best deal, how many days to plan for, and what type of ticket you need in the first place.
The solution? Costco Universal Studios tickets. Unsure where to start and how to snag great deals on Costco Universal Studios tickets? This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about Universal Studios tickets at Costco, including prices, package options, and perks.
From the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to the thrilling roller coasters, we’ll guide you through how to make the most of your visit. Plus, we’ll share tips and tricks for navigating the park like a pro so that you can enjoy your day without any stress or hassle.
What Are Costco Universal Studios Tickets?
Universal Studios Orlando offers an array of exciting rides and attractions perfect for family outings or adventures with friends. But as much as we all love to visit, the cost of admission can be off-putting. That’s why Costco offers Universal Studios tickets at a discounted rate through their travel program.
What is Costco Travel?
Costco Travel is the discount travel branch of Costco Wholesale Corporation, where members can find various vacation deals and ways to save money on trips. One of those deals includes discounted Universal Studios tickets that can save you a significant amount of money compared to buying the tickets on your own.
Costco Universal Studios Tickets
Costco’s Universal Studios tickets come in different variations to accommodate your budget and preferences. The multiple-day park passes bundled with resort stays are among the most popular options. In fact, you’ll likely find that Costco Travel only sells Universal Studios tickets alongside resort passes.
This means you could potentially snag a three-day park-to-park ticket and a great deal on accommodation, whether at a Universal Studios resort or a nearby hotel. A package deal like this would allow you to travel to Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure for three days.
You could access rides and attractions such as:
- Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
- Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
- Revenge of the Mummy
- Men in Black Alien Attack
- The Simpsons Ride
- Hogwarts Express: King’s Cross Station
If you have less time, you can opt for a two-day park-to-park ticket, which is still a great deal and offers the same access to both parks. However, the catch is the same – you have to pay for a bundled deal that includes park passes and accommodation.
However, one of the great things about Costco’s Universal Studios tickets is that they often include extras such as early admission and free promo tickets to use for entrance to the park at a later date.
The bottom line? Costco Universal Studios tickets offer a cost-effective way to enjoy the theme parks and their various attractions. With the ability to choose different ticket options to suit your preference, it’s a no-brainer for anyone looking to save money while enjoying all that Universal Studios has to offer (especially if you want to stay at or near the parks).
Types of Tickets to Universal Studios
As mentioned, one quick browse through Costco’s tickets to Universal Studios and you’ll find several options. However, the one thing they all share is that you can’t just buy solo tickets for park entry. Instead, you have to purchase package deals that include multiple days of park entry alongside accommodation.
To give you a good idea of what a standard Costco Universal Studios ticket package looks like, here are a few examples of options (valid at the time of writing; please check for updated pricing) for those interested in planning a Universal Studios vacation in Orlando.
Margaritaville Resort Orlando Package
Get ready to immerse yourself in an island oasis with the Margaritaville Resort Orlando Package. Located in the vibrant heart of Central Florida, this unique vacation destination is the ultimate escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Plus, as a Costco member, you’ll be able to unlock exclusive savings that make this dream vacation more affordable than ever before.
With this package, you’ll receive:
- A two-park, two-day park-to-park ticket
- A free three-day promo ticket (dated for travel through specific dates)
- Scheduled transportation to Universal Orlando Resort
- Accommodations at the Margaritaville Resort Orlando
And best of all? When you’re not busy exploring all the magic that Universal Orlando has to offer, you can relax and recharge in the Margaritaville Resort Orlando. All applicable taxes are included in the package price, so you can rest easy knowing there won’t be any hidden fees when you check out.
With shuttle service available to the Walt Disney World transportation center and SeaWorld Orlando, this is truly a vacation package that offers ultimate convenience and accessibility. It’s also a great example of what’s included in Costco Universal Studios tickets when you bundle them with hotel and resort stays.
Universal’s Aventura Hotel Package
What if you want to combine Universal Studios with another nearby park? That’s all a part of Costco combo tickets! This amazing package, for example, offers everything you need for a truly magical vacation, including Universal Orlando tickets plus entrance to the Volcano Bay Water Theme Park.
The Universal’s Aventura Hotel Package also includes:
- A three-park, two-day park-to-park ticket
- A free three-day promo ticket (dated for travel through specific dates)
- Early park admission to either Universal Studios Florida or Universal’s Islands of Adventure
- Transportation to Universal Orlando Resort theme parks and Universal CityWalk
- Accommodations at Universal’s Aventura Hotel
Plus, you’ll get resort-wide charging privileges with your room key and all applicable taxes (as you can see, taxes are often included in most ticket deals).
And let’s not forget about the stylish and comfortable accommodations that Universal’s Aventura Hotel offers. It’s a modern, stylish hotel located just a short distance from all the major hotspots in the area.
What if you don’t want to visit the Volcano Bay Water Theme Park? Other packages leave the entrance off. Opting for a standard Aventura Hotel Package, therefore, would be much cheaper and allow you to focus all your time and energy on enjoying the rides and attractions at Universal Studios Orlando.
Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld Package
Finally, as one last example of the package deals you can expect when purchasing Universal Studios tickets from Costco, we have the Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld Package.
As the name suggests, this one combines admission to Universal Studios with a stay at a SeaWorld resort, too. While you have to purchase SeaWorld tickets separately, it’s a great way to stay close to SeaWorld while enjoying Universal Studios tickets (and transportation to the theme park).
Only six miles away from Universal Studios, the Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld is stunning, too. Upon arrival, take in the stunning 10-story lobby, and get ready to be wowed by the stylish and spacious guest rooms. And when it’s time to fuel up, you’ll find plenty of delicious dining options, too.
But that’s not all; the package includes fantastic extras that will make your trip even better. You’ll get:
- A two-park, two-day park-to-park ticket, as well as a 3-day free promo ticket
- A free three-day promo ticket (dated for travel through specific dates)
- Universal Studios tickets
Plus, transportation to Universal Studios is included, along with your Universal Orlando Resort tickets and all applicable taxes. It’s everything you need to have an amazing time at Universal, all wrapped up in one incredible package.
Are Universal Studios Package Deals Worth It?
Do the deals mentioned above sound great? We think so, but perhaps you’re not sold on the idea of having to buy Universal Studios tickets alongside accommodation. And we get it – when planning a trip to Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida, one of the biggest decisions you’ll make is whether to purchase a package deal or buy tickets and book accommodation separately.
Package deals are worth considering for most out-of-state visitors or those traveling from outside Orlando. Why? Package deals tend to be a great value because they offer a combination of park entrance, accommodation, and other perks at a lower price than you would get if you bought all those things separately.
But before you decide whether to opt for a package deal or go the DIY route, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons. Here are some main arguments for and against getting a package deal for your next Universal Studios Orlando adventure.
Pros of Universal Studios Package Deals
As mentioned above, purchasing a package deal can offer significant cost savings over buying everything separately. It’s not uncommon for package deals to offer savings of up to 30% or more compared to purchasing tickets and accommodation separately.
Purchasing a package deal means everything is handled for you, from park entrance to accommodations and sometimes even meals. This simplifies planning your trip, especially if this is your first time visiting the park.
And finally, many package deals come with added perks like early park entry, free parking, and exclusive access to certain park areas.
Cons of Universal Studios Package Deals
The biggest drawback of these packages is the limited flexibility. Package deals often come with strict terms and conditions, limiting your ability to change or cancel your plans if something unexpected arises. If you prefer the flexibility to make changes on the fly, a package deal might not be the best fit for you.
Additionally, depending on what’s included in the package deal, you might end up paying for things you don’t need or want. For example, if the package deal includes a meal plan, but you’re a picky eater, you might feel like you’re not getting your money’s worth.
However, all in all, those are the only drawbacks. Most visitors, especially those traveling as a family or large groups, find value in Costco’s Universal Studios packaged deals.
How To Buy Costco Universal Studios Tickets
Are you ready for a fun-filled adventure at Universal Studios? As you can see, you can save a ton of money by purchasing your tickets through Costco. That’s right, the same place you go to buy groceries can also provide discounted theme park tickets.
To purchase your tickets, however, you must have a valid Costco membership, which you can obtain online or at your local Costco warehouse. Buying online is easy, and you can even print the tickets from your home. However, that’s not the only way to snag these sweet deals.
At Costco
Do you have a Costco membership and want to purchase your Universal Studios tickets in person? First things first, head to your local Costco and make your way to the gift card section. In almost every store location, you’ll find gift cards and theme park tickets grouped, making it easy to find what you’re looking for.
Once you reach the gift card section, look around until you see the Universal Studios stand. You’ll be offered Costco Universal Studios tickets for either Hollywood or Orlando, depending on where you live. In this case, you’re likely looking for the Orlando resort, but ensure you double-check which one you’re getting before purchasing anything.
Don’t be alarmed when you don’t see physical tickets on the stand. Instead, you’ll find a cardboard piece that must be taken to a register for redemption and pick up your tickets. After you purchase your package, a guest services member will retrieve your tickets and bring them to you.
It’s that simple!
Online
Buying Costco Universal Studios tickets in person is pretty easy. However, it’s actually pretty simple to buy Costco Universal Studios tickets online too.
To do so, you should head to Costco Travel rather than using the regular Costco website. This will help streamline the process and save you time. Log in using your Costco membership details once you’ve landed at the Costco Travel site. If you don’t yet have a membership, you’ll need to sign up for one before you can purchase discounted tickets and packages.
Next, it’s time to find the Universal Studios tickets. Hover your mouse over the “Theme Parks & Specialty” submenu, and you’ll see Universal Orlando listed on the right-hand side. Give that a click, and you’ll be taken to a page featuring all the latest deals.
When purchasing the tickets, choose the offer that best suits your needs and follow the on-screen instructions to make your purchase. It’s quick, efficient, and hassle-free!
When To Buy Costco Universal Studios Tickets
Finding and buying Costco Universal Studios tickets is one thing – knowing how far in advance to book your stay and snag those tickets is another. After all, timing is everything when buying tickets for any theme park. If you’re planning a visit to this amazing theme park, it would be best to purchase your tickets at the right time to save some bucks.
To get the best deal on Costco Universal Studios tickets, you should keep an eye on the seasonal offers and discounts that are available from time to time.
Generally, the off-season is the perfect time to score a good bargain on tickets. You’ll find that prices often drop as the crowds thin out. So, if you’re not easily deterred by colder weather and shorter days, plan your visit in the fall or winter.
Another good time to buy Costco Universal Studios tickets is during promotional sales. Costco frequently updates its discounted tickets and packages, available at various times throughout the year. If you don’t currently see the resort you want to stay at listed on their deals page, for example, keep looking.
Ultimately, as with other theme park tickets, timing is key when getting the best deals on Costco Universal Studios tickets. If you can plan your visit during the off-season or take advantage of promotional sales, you’ll enjoy a fabulous day at this iconic theme park without breaking the bank.
How to Plan a Universal Studios Vacation
Getting your Universal Studios tickets from Costco is a smart move. But if you want to truly make the most of your trip, there are a few things you should think about before you go. Here are our top five tips.
1. Choose the Right Time to Visit
Universal Studios can get pretty busy, so it’s important to pick a time to visit when the crowds will be at their lowest. Mid-week visits tend to be less crowded than weekends, and visiting during “off-peak” times like late summer or early fall can also help you avoid the worst of the crowds.
How can you avoid visiting when everybody else does? Unfortunately, it’s sort of inevitable, especially during peak summer months and holidays. However, you can check the park’s calendar before you go to see if any special events or holidays might affect crowds.
2. Plan Your Route Ahead of Time
Universal Studios has a lot to offer, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the options. That’s why it’s best to plan your route ahead of time and make a list of the attractions you really want to see (view a map here to help you get started!).
Prioritize your must-see attractions and schedule them earlier in the day when lines tend to be shorter. If you’ve purchased a Costco package deal that provides entrance to multiple parks, be smart about dividing your time between parks. It’s often best to avoid switching between two parks on the same day.
3. Take Advantage of Single Rider Lines
Single Rider lines are a godsend for anyone looking to skip the longer lines at Universal Studios. These lines are typically much shorter than the regular standby lines, allowing you to jump ahead to the next available spot at an attraction.
While you won’t be able to ride with your group if you take advantage of the Single Rider line, it’s a great way to get to more attractions faster.
4. Bring Plenty of Sunscreen and Water
Universal Studios is in sunny Florida, so it’s important to pack plenty of sunscreen and water. The last thing you want is to get sunburned or dehydrated during your trip. Wear a hat and sunglasses as well to protect yourself from the sun.
5. Don’t Forget About Food and Drink
It’s easy to get caught up in the thrill of the attractions and forget about budgeting for food and drink. There are plenty of great options at Universal Studios, from fast food to sit-down restaurants. So plan your meals beforehand, and don’t hesitate to take a break and grab a snack when you need one (pack them in a backpack to avoid paying for pricey snacks in the park).
Experience the Magic of Universal Studios
If you’re planning to experience the ultimate adventure at Universal Studios, you definitely need to get your hands on Costco Universal Studios tickets! Not only are they budget-friendly, but they also provide access to some of the most thrilling attractions and rides in the theme park.
Want to learn more about Universal Studios parks before visiting?
With our handy guides, you can also learn all the tips and tricks to make your visit as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Dive right into our Universal resort guides and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey. Remember, you can always click the buttons at the top of the page to score discount tickets, too.