How to Avoid the heat in the Universal Parks…

When summer temperatures are soaring and the humidity is high, it’s nearly impossible to escape the heat while you’re outside in Orlando. Even beyond the summer months, the warm weather sticks around, thanks to Florida’s subtropical climate which keeps temps toasty year-round. After all, what would you expect from a place called the Sunshine State?

Fortunately, you’ll find a variety of ways to stay cool at Universal Orlando Resort, no matter when you visit! Follow our tips and tricks, and you’ll be able to say that you beat the Florida heat.

Overview of Florida’s Climate

Florida’s subtropical climate is split evenly into a dry season and wet season. The dry season typically happens over the winter and spring months, which see mild to warm temperatures that average mid-70 degrees Fahrenheit. Sometimes there will be an occasional cold front that slides in after a rainy day, dropping temperatures into the low 50s.

Once June arrives, the rainy season begins. It brings high temperatures that steadily reach the low- to mid-90s and frequent afternoon thunderstorms (we’ve got another post dedicated to making the most out of rainy days at Universal Orlando!). Humidity levels are also high during this time, only adding to the heat. You can expect the weather outlook to remain this way until October when temps finally start to lower.

Since many families travel to Orlando over the summer, you’ll want to be prepared with sunscreen galore! But even during winter, you could probably anticipate warmer temperatures than what you’re used to.

Packing for the Heat

If you’re a bit unsure about what to pack for hot and humid weather, we’ve got you covered! This is a list of our  Family essentials that help us stay cool at Universal Orlando.

Sunscreen

Sunscreen is our no. 1 item that we never forget to pack. We’re not aiming to look as red as Spider-Man. Trust us, you do not want sunburn to ruin any fun! To save money, we definitely recommend bringing a tube or spray bottle with you or buying at a Walmart or Target once you’re in Orlando. However, if you find yourself running low, you can easily find sunscreen at the parks and resorts (at a premium). Apply in the morning before you hit the parks, but bring it in your bag so you can slather up throughout the day.

Hats and Sunglasses

Protect your face and eyes from the harsh sunlight. All you need is a cap. You don’t want to risk losing your sunglasses on a ride (I’ve been there — my pair is probably still somewhere by Fluffy on Hagrid’s!), so keep your favourite pair at home and opt for cheap ones for this trip. As an alternative, pack eyewear straps so your sunglasses stay securely on your head (highly recommend for anyone who wears regular glasses and needs them to see but doesn’t want a blurry ride!).

Lightweight, Quick-Dry Clothing

Because of the high humidity, you’ll want to pick out lightweight, quick-dry clothing such as tank tops and cycling shorts. Thick fabrics, think denim and cotton won’t allow your skin to breathe as easily. Avoid dark coloured clothes too if possible! My entire wardrobe is black.

Refillable Water Bottles

You’ll want to drink water often in order to stay cool at Universal Orlando. Staying hydrated, which we’ll cover later in this post, is super important.

Portable Fan or Other Cooling Accessories

These aren’t absolute necessities, but if you already have them, bring ‘em! Neck cooling fans and wet towels have also become a popular accessory.

How to Stay Cool at Universal Orlando

1. Stay Hydrated

Remember those refillable water bottles you packed? They’re the key to staying hydrated! Dehydration and other heat-related illnesses are one of the most common ailments at theme parks. By bringing your own bottles, you’ll save money (and help the environment!) because you won’t have to buy pricey bottled water. Eyeing an ice-cold soda or a frozen margarita? It’s OK to indulge, but just be sure you’re still drinking water, at least an equal amount or more. Sugary and alcoholic drinks can potentially leave you even more dehydrated than before you started sipping. On that note, take hydration tablets or electrolytes everyday to replenish. This will avoid burn out and keep your energy levels up. 

2. Grab a Butterbeer or Cold Treat

But of course, you can’t miss an opportunity to cool down with a refreshing swig of Butterbeer at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter (found in both Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley). You can also try Butterbeer in the form of ice cream from Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour. For the less-informed muggles, Butterbeer is the iconic drink straight from the “Harry Potter” books. It essentially has butterscotch and shortbread flavours, and it’s totally safe for the kiddies because there isn’t any actual beer in it. We taste tested every single Butterbeer item, and we all agree the frozen version is THE best for a hot summer day!

Not a Butterbeer fan? That’s OK indulge in other cool treats, such as Toothsome’s gigantic milkshakes! Lard Lad Donuts also offers a sundae with ice cream packed in between Homer’s famous pink-frosted donuts.

3. Take Frequent Breaks

We totally understand being so excited with planning your trip that you try to squeeze in as much as possible. Even if you’re on a time crunch, it doesn’t hurt to take mini-breaks throughout the day.

If you have crowd anxiety or a sensory processing disorder, we have our favourite spots where you can take a sensory break (note: many of these are still located outside, although some have cooling fans).

4. Eat a Late Lunch

Typically, the hottest part of the day is during the afternoon between 2 and 3 p.m. If you wait to eat a late lunch around this time, you can escape the heat and take your time at a table-service restaurant. Islands of Adventure has Mythos Restaurant and Confisco Grille, while at Universal Studios Florida, you can find Lombard’s Seafood Grille and Finnegan’s Bar and Grill. Universal CityWalk also boasts some amazing restaurants, such as Bigfire and The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar. Since it’s an unusual hour for dining, you shouldn’t have any problems with crowds (unless you’re visiting during a peak time then you may want to make a dining reservation).

5. Hit the Water Rides, or Hang Out at Splash Pads

There’s no faster way to cool off at the theme parks than by getting soaked on a water ride or splashed at a water playground. Islands of Adventure has all three water rides: Jurassic Park River Adventure, Popeye and Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges and Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls. Kiddies can play at the kiddie water playground, If I Ran the Zoo, at Islands of Adventure. Toon Lagoon also has a few water elements to keep an eye out for. Additionally, pay a visit to the mischievous Mystic Fountain in the Lost Continent for a wet and wild good time!

6. Swim at Universal’s Volcano Bay or Your Resort’s Pool

In need of an island getaway? Volcano Bay offers a watery paradise for when you just want to chill out on a lazy river or speed down a thrilling water coaster. From Tot Tiki Reef to Ko’kiri Body Plunge, the water park has something for every member of the family.

You can also opt to take advantage of your resort’s pool. Hotel guests are allowed to pool hop among the Prime Value, Preferred and Premier hotels only. However, guests of Universal’s Endless Summer Resort Surfside Inn and Suites can share the pool at its sister hotel, Dockside Inn and Suites.

7. Seek Air Conditioning Whenever Possible

Fortunately, many of the attractions at Universal Studios Florida are indoors, including the queues. So you’ll just have to brave the heat when hopping from ride to ride. While Islands of Adventure has more outdoor rides, there are still quite a few rides that provide relief from the sun. Scope out shows, restaurants or gift shops too!

Best Universal Orlando Attractions for Staying Cool

Universal Studios Florida

• Revenge of the Mummy
• E.T. Adventure
• Men in Black Alien Attack
• The Simpsons Ride
• Transformers: The Ride-3D
• Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
• Race Through New York starring Jimmy Fallon
• Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
• Fast and Furious Supercharged
• The Bourne Stuntacular
• Universal’s Horror Make-Up Show
• Olivanders Experience in Diagon Alley
• Hogwarts Express (if you have a Park-to-Park ticket)

Universal’s Islands of Adventure

• The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man
• Storm Force Acceleration
• The Incredible Hulk Coaster
• Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
• Mystic Fountain
• Skull Island: Reign of Kong
• The Cat in the Hat
• If I Ran the Zoo play area
• Jurassic Park River Adventure
• Popeye and Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges
• Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls
• Olivanders Experience in Hogsmeade
• Hogwarts Express (if you have a Park-to-Park ticket)

Whether you stick to the water rides or chug down a Butterbeer (and LOTS of water), a game plan is necessary to avoid heat fatigue. Stay cool!

Staying Cool in Epic…

Arrive Early and Take Advantage of Cooler Mornings

One of the best ways to beat the heat is to arrive before the park opens. Temperatures are usually much more comfortable in the morning, making it the perfect time to experience popular attractions with shorter wait times before the midday sun becomes intense.

Plan to ride the attractions with outdoor queues first, then save indoor experiences for the hottest part of the day.

Know the Signs of Heat Exhaustion

If anyone in your group starts feeling dizzy, nauseous, develops a headache, or becomes unusually tired, it’s important to stop immediately.

Move into the shade or air conditioning, drink water, and rest before continuing your day. Don’t try to push through the heat.

Best Places to Escape the Heat at Universal Epic Universe

Epic Universe is one of the most beautiful theme parks Universal has ever built, but there’s one thing many guests notice right away—there isn’t as much mature shade as you’ll find in the older Universal parks. During the hottest part of the day (typically noon to 4 p.m.), knowing where to cool off can make all the difference.

1. Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry

If you’re looking for the longest air-conditioned break in the park, this is it. The incredibly detailed indoor queue and attraction give you plenty of time to cool down while exploring one of Epic Universe’s most impressive experiences. Just be aware that during very busy days, part of the queue may extend outdoors.

2. Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment

This is another must-do when the Florida heat becomes overwhelming. The queue is mostly indoors, heavily air-conditioned, and often mentioned by guests as one of the coolest places in the park—literally.

3. Le Cirque Arcanus

Need a break without standing in line? Head to this indoor stage show in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic. You’ll enjoy around 20 minutes in comfortable air conditioning while watching an impressive magical performance.

4. The Untrainable Dragon

Located in How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, this indoor show offers another excellent opportunity to escape the afternoon sun while enjoying one of the park’s most popular family-friendly performances.

5. Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge

The attraction’s queue winds through Bowser’s Castle and is almost entirely indoors, making it one of the better rides to experience during the hottest hours of the day.

6. Quick-Service Restaurants

Even if you’re not ready to eat, don’t underestimate the value of taking a 20-minute break inside one of Epic Universe’s indoor restaurants. Grab a cold drink, refill your water bottle, and recharge before heading back into the Florida sunshine.

7. Shops Throughout the Park

Every themed land has indoor gift shops with powerful air conditioning. If you start feeling overheated, spend a few minutes browsing merchandise—you’ll cool off and avoid pushing yourself too hard.

Bonus Tip: Cool Off in Celestial Park

While much of Celestial Park is open to the sun, don’t miss Astronomica, the interactive splash pad. It’s especially popular with families and offers a refreshing way to cool down without leaving the park.

Don’t Forget Free Ice Water

One of the easiest ways to stay cool is to stay hydrated. Any quick-service restaurant that serves fountain drinks will provide complimentary cups of ice water—just ask at the counter. It’s a simple trick that can save you money and help you avoid heat exhaustion.

Pro Tip: If you’re visiting during the summer, plan your outdoor roller coasters for the morning or evening, then save indoor attractions, shows, shopping, and lunch for the hottest hours of the day. You’ll stay more comfortable and often avoid the worst of the afternoon heat.