Universal Orlando Resort Day Trip by Rail from Miami

Universal Orlando Resort Day Trip by Rail from Miami: An Honest Look

If you’re dreaming of a day filled with thrilling rides, vibrant entertainment, and the magic of Universal Orlando, this day trip offers a convenient way to get there from Miami. For around $350 per person, you get a roundtrip high-speed train ride on Brightline, a ticket to Universal’s parks, and the chance to explore CityWalk’s shops and restaurants. The entire adventure clocks in at about 17 hours, making it a long but potentially exciting day for theme park fans.

We particularly like the reserved seat on Florida’s new high-speed train, which makes the journey comfortable and hassle-free, especially compared to driving. Also, the option to choose between a 1-Day Ticket for one park or both parks adds flexibility for different kinds of visitors—whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just looking to experience a few favorite rides.

However, a noteworthy consideration is that transportation between the Orlando train station and Universal Orlando Resort is not included, so you’ll need to budget for a taxi or ride-share—which can add about $30 each way. This logistical detail is important to know beforehand so you can plan accordingly. This tour might suit families, solo travelers, or theme park enthusiasts who value convenience and are comfortable with some travel planning on the day.

Key Points

• Convenient high-speed train travel: Experience Florida’s new Brightline train for a comfortable, quick journey from Miami to Orlando.
• Flexible park options: Choose between a one-park or two-park ticket, allowing you to customize your day.
• Additional transportation needed: Be prepared to arrange your own ride from Orlando station to Universal, adding some planning.
• All-day adventure: With about 4 hours at the parks, CityWalk, and the train ride, you’ll enjoy a full, busy day.
• WiFi included: Free WiFi on the train, stations, and at Universal enhances your experience and keeps you connected.
• Limited included transportation: The tour doesn’t cover transfer costs, which can add to your overall expenses.

The Full Breakdown: What to Expect on This Day Trip

Starting in Miami: The Train Experience

We begin early, leaving Downtown Miami at the crack of dawn. The bright spot here is Brightline’s reserved seating, which offers more legroom and comfort compared to typical rail services. The check-in process is straightforward, and with WiFi available both at stations and on the train, you can catch up on emails or just relax with some entertainment. The train ride itself takes roughly 7 hours, so be prepared for a long haul, but one that’s far more comfortable than a bus or driving.

Arriving in Orlando: The Transit Gap

Once you arrive at the Orlando Airport Train Station, the journey isn’t quite finished. You’ll need to organize your own transfer—most travelers take a taxi or ride-share to Universal Orlando, which costs around $30. This step can add to your travel time and expense, so consider if your schedule and budget allow for it. The transfer can take about an hour, so plan accordingly.

Universal Orlando Resort: Park Time

Arriving at Universal, you’re greeted with the usual buzz of excitement. Your ticket includes admission to either one or both parks, depending on your choice. With about four hours of park time, you can explore your selected area—either Universal Studios Florida or Islands of Adventure.

This isn’t enough time to see everything, but it’s perfect for tackling a few must-do rides and attractions. The Park-to-Park Access option is available if you want to hop between parks during your limited stay. Visitors can enjoy the thrill rides, shows, and themed attractions that make Universal a standout in Orlando.

CityWalk and Beyond

Before or after your rides, you’ll have time to wander Universal CityWalk, a lively area packed with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. It’s a great spot to grab a meal, pick up souvenirs, or just enjoy the lively atmosphere. Given the limited time, prioritize what interests you most.

The Overall Experience

While the concept of traveling from Miami on a high-speed train to visit Universal Orlando sounds appealing—saving you from the drive and traffic—the reality involves some careful planning. The train ride is a highlight, especially with WiFi and reserved seating, but the additional transportation cost from Orlando station to the park is a key factor that can increase the overall expense.

From a review perspective, one traveler, Tia_W, expressed disappointment about the extra fares to and from Orlando, feeling that “everything should have been included.” This points to a common frustration with tours that don’t bundle all transport costs, especially when the price seems to suggest a more all-inclusive experience.

Is It Worth It?

This tour offers value for those who prioritize comfort and convenience over the nitty-gritty of logistics. It’s perfect for families or solo travelers who want to avoid the hassle of driving or navigating Orlando traffic. Plus, the train ride offers a relaxing start and end to your day, avoiding the congestion common around major theme parks.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or looking for a more flexible, spontaneous experience, this might not be the best fit. The non-refundable policy also means you need to be confident about your plans, as cancellations aren’t allowed.

Who Should Consider This Trip?

This trip is best suited for adventurous travelers eager for a theme park day without the hassle of driving or parking. It’s also good for those who appreciate a comfortable, direct train journey and don’t mind arranging their own transfer at Orlando. It’s less ideal for travelers who want a fully inclusive experience or have limited time to spend in the parks, as the actual park time is relatively brief.

If you’re a dedicated Universal fan, this can be a fun, efficient way to squeeze a day of rides into your Florida itinerary. But if you’re seeking a more leisurely, in-depth visit, consider spending more time in Orlando and planning your transportation independently.

FAQ

Does the tour include transportation from the Orlando train station to Universal?
No, the tour does not include this transfer. You will need to arrange a taxi or ride-share, which typically costs around $30 each way.

What does the ticket include?
The ticket covers roundtrip train travel on Brightline, WiFi on the train and at stations, and your theme park admission—either to one or both parks, based on your choice.

Can I switch between parks during the day?
Yes, if you choose the Park-to-Park option, you can hop between Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. Your ticket allows this flexibility.

How long is the train journey?
The train ride from Miami to Orlando takes about 7 hours, making for a long day, but the reserved seating and WiFi help make it more comfortable.

Is this tour suitable for kids?
Most travelers can participate, but minors under 13 must be accompanied by an adult. Rides may not be suitable for pregnant women or those with certain medical conditions.

What is the main drawback of this tour?
The main drawback is the additional transportation expense and effort required to reach the park after arriving in Orlando, which could affect overall value.

How long do I have at the parks?
You’ll have approximately 4 hours to enjoy the parks, which is enough for a handful of rides and attractions but not a comprehensive visit.

Final Thoughts

This day trip from Miami to Universal Orlando by rail is a neat idea for those who value comfort and are comfortable managing some logistics. The train experience is a highlight, offering a relaxed start and finish, and the flexible park options cater to different interests. However, the additional transportation costs and limited park time mean it’s best suited for enthusiasts eager for a quick, hassle-free visit rather than those seeking a full, leisurely experience.

If you’re looking for a cost-effective, comfortable way to visit Universal from Miami, and don’t mind sorting out your own transfer, this tour could be right up your alley. But if convenience, all-inclusiveness, or a longer park experience are more your style, you might want to explore other options in Orlando.