Should you visit Universal Orlando on Thanksgiving? Explore crowd levels, meal options, and the ideal times to experience the magic.
Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude and gathering, and school holidays! But is Thanksgiving Day the ideal time for your visit? In this guide, we’ll explore the pros and cons of experiencing the magic of Universal during this holiday season.
How Busy is Universal Orlando on Thanksgiving Day?
Thanksgiving Day at Universal Orlando usually starts off relatively slow, especially in the morning. Guests are often enjoying a leisurely breakfast or sleeping in, creating a manageable crowd.
However, things start to pick up around lunchtime. The park gradually gets busier, but it’s not as packed as the surrounding days.
The Week of Thanksgiving: Super Busy
If you’re considering visiting Universal Orlando during the week of Thanksgiving, be prepared for significant crowds. With kids out of school and families looking for holiday adventures, this is one of the busiest times of the year. The three or four days surrounding Thanksgiving can be downright insane in terms of crowd levels.
The Week Before and After Thanksgiving: Quiet
Surprisingly, the week before and following Thanksgiving often sees a drop in crowds. Families have enjoyed their holiday break or are gearing up for winter break, making this period more manageable for visitors. If you want to avoid the holiday rush, this could be a great choice.
Seasonal Passholder Blockout Thanksgiving Week
Universal Orlando has blockout dates for Seasonal Passholders from Monday through Saturday of Thanksgiving Week. As I say, if there are blockout dates, Universal Orlando expects it to be crowded.
Thanksgiving Meal Options at Hotels and Restaurants
Universal Orlando offers a variety of dining options to make your Thanksgiving special. Many of the resort’s hotels host Thanksgiving meals, providing a convenient and delightful way to celebrate.
Additionally, some of the on-site restaurants offer Thanksgiving-themed menus, allowing you to savor a traditional holiday feast even within the park.
Holidays at Universal Orlando 2023
From November 17th to December 31th, 2023, Universal Orlando Resort transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland. Don’t forget to try these Holiday festivities!
- Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle Light Show
- Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s
- Christmas in the Wizarding World
- Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular
- Universal’s Holiday Tour
- The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast
- Earl the Squirrel – Holiday Mascot
- UOAP Perks
- Holidays at the Hotels
- Hanukkah Menorah Lightings
- Thanksgiving Day Meals
- Christmas Day Meals
- Holiday Treats at Universal Orlando
- The Holiday Tree Hunt
- Grinch Meet and Greet
- Mannheim Steamroller Concerts
- Passholder Holiday 2023 Blockout Dates
- Green and Red Coconut Club
- Legacy Attraction Ornament Scavenger Hunt
- New Years Eve 2023
The Thanksgiving Conundrum
In general, Thanksgiving Day itself tends to be slightly less busy than the days immediately surrounding it. If you’re looking for a manageable crowd while still enjoying the holiday spirit, Thanksgiving Day could be a good choice. However, if you want to avoid the peak crowds, consider visiting the week before or after Thanksgiving, when the park is typically less crowded. Your choice ultimately depends on your crowd tolerance and desire for a holiday-themed experience at Universal Orlando.
