Universal Orlando Resort Statistics: Key Facts and Figures

While Universal Orlando Resort is known for having some of the best rides and attractions in the business, few people realize there is much more to the resort than meets the eye. This page presents historical and current Universal Orlando Resort statistics, facts, and dates to help you better understand this fascinating tourist destination.

Overview of Universal Orlando Resort

• Location: Orlando, Florida
• Owner: NBCUniversal (Comcast)
• Parent: Universal Parks & Resorts
• Theme Parks: Universal Studios Florida; Islands of Adventure
• Water Park: Volcano Bay
• Entertainment Complex: Universal CityWalk

Universal Orlando Resort is a theme park and resort located in Orlando, Florida. It is owned and operated by Universal Parks & Resorts, a division of NBCUniversal/Comcast.

There are currently two theme parks at the resort: Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure; a water park: Volcano Bay; and CityWalk, a dining and entertainment complex.  A third theme park, Epic Universe, is expected to open in 2025.

Universal’s two theme parks share The Wizarding World of Harry Potter-themed area.

The grounds of Universal Orlando Resort cover 541 acres.

Historical Opening Dates for Universal Orlando Resort

• Founders: MCA Universal and The Rank Organisation (Joint Venture)
• Cost to Build Universal Studios Florida: An Estimated $630 Million
• Universal Studios Florida Opening Date: June 7th, 1990
• CityWalk Opening Date: February 4th, 1999
• Islands of Adventure Opening Date: May 28th, 1999
• Loews Portofino Bay Hotel Opening Date: September 1999
• Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade Opening Date: June 18th, 2010
• Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley Opening Date: July 8th, 2014
• Volcano Bay Opening Date: May 25th, 2017

Originally known as Universal Studios Florida, the resort opened on June 7th, 1990, as a 50/50 joint venture between MCA Universal and The Rank Organisation. The estimated cost to build the park was $630 million. As a result of the opening, Universal Orlando began competing directly against Disney-MGM Studios (now Disney’s Hollywood Studios), located just 13 miles apart.

The construction of a new theme park, Islands of Adventure, began in 1994. In May 1997, Islands of Adventure Preview Center replaced Screen Test Home Video Adventure. Universal’s Islands of Adventure theme park officially opened to the public on May 28th, 1999. Additionally, Universal opened CityWalk, a multipurpose entertainment complex, and Loews Portofino Bay, the resort’s first hotel, in 1999.

Universal Islands of Adventure opened Wizarding World of Harry Potter-Hogsmeade in 2010. It was expanded to Universal Studios Florida in 2014 and named Wizarding World of Harry Potter-Diagon Alley. In 2017, Volcano Bay opened as Universal Orlando Resort’s water park.

As part of the resort’s continued expansion, Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe theme park, slated to open in 2025, is currently under construction.

Universal Orlando Resort Annual Attendance  

In 2023, Universal Parks and Resorts worldwide welcomed an impressive total of 62 million visitors, solidifying its position as the fourth most-visited theme park operator globally. This total includes Universal theme parks located in Florida, California, Japan, Singapore, and Beijing. In contrast, Disney theme parks topped the global attendance charts in 2023, with a staggering combined total of 142 million visitors.

Focusing on Florida, Universal Orlando Resort stands out as one of the world’s premier tourist destinations, attracting over 22 million visitors in 2023. The resort features two main theme parks—Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida—as well as one water park, Volcano Bay. Below is a breakdown of attendance figures by park for further insight.

Universal Studios Florida Annual Attendance

• 2009: 5.53 million
• 2012: 6.2 million
• 2015: 9.59 million
• 2017: 10.2 million
• 2018: 10.71 million
• 2019: 10.92 million
• 2020: 4.1 million
• 2021: 8.99 million
• 2022: 10.75 million
• 2023: 9.75 million

Universal Studios Florida is one of the top tourist destinations in the world, and its annual attendance figures reflect this popularity. Over the years, the park has generally experienced a steady increase in visitors, culminating in a record-breaking year in 2019. However, 2020 presented significant challenges; due to the COVID-19 pandemic, attendance dropped dramatically as the park closed for several months, and many potential guests chose to stay home.

Since then, visitor numbers have rebounded strongly, drawing large crowds from around the globe. Notably, Universal Orlando Resort reached an all-time high during Q2 of 2022. In 2023, however, attendance dipped to 9.75 million, and we are eagerly awaiting the 2024 numbers to understand the trends better.

Despite the recent dip, we remain optimistic about the future. With new attractions opening and the excitement surrounding the nearby Epic Universe, we believe that attendance at Universal Studios will surely increase in 2025.

Universal’s Islands of Adventure Attendance

• 2009: 4.63 million
• 2012: 7.98 million
• 2015: 8.79 million
• 2017: 9.55 million
• 2018: 9.79 million
• 2019: 10.38 million
• 2020: 4.01 million
• 2021: 9.08 million
• 2022: 11.03 million
• 2023: 10 million

Annual attendance at Universal’s Islands of Adventure had increased since 2010 when The Wizarding World of Harry Potter opened to rave reviews. Although there was a significant drop in visitors during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the theme park rebounded strongly in 2021 and 2022. However, similar to Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure experienced a decrease of 1 million visitors in 2023. While this drop is notable, it is expected that attendance will pick up again soon. Data for 2024 has not yet been released, but it will be interesting to see where attendance lands.

With its array of thrilling rides, immersive attractions themed around Harry Potter, and lush tropical setting, it’s no surprise that Islands of Adventure has been voted the best theme park multiple times by Tripadvisor. Additionally, with Universal Studios Florida located right next door (and Epic Universe on its way), guests can easily spend several days enjoying the offerings of these incredible parks.

Volcano Bay’s Annual Attendance

• 2018: 1.73 million
• 2019: 1.81 million
• 2020: 550,000
• 2021: 1.69 million
• 2022: 1.85 million
• 2023: 1.8 million

In 2019, Universal’s Volcano Bay welcomed 1.81 million visitors, reflecting a 5% increase compared to 2018. However, this growth was overshadowed by Disney World’s water parks, Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach, which registered 2.25 million and 1.98 million visitors, respectively.

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted attendance, which dropped to just 550,000 in 2020. In 2021, attendance saw a modest rebound, rising to 1.69 million visitors as health restrictions eased and guests gradually began to return. By 2022, attendance further increased to 1.85 million, indicating a strong recovery trend. However, in 2023, there was a slight decrease in attendance, suggesting that the numbers may be stabilizing after a period of considerable fluctuation.

Overall, Volcano Bay has shown resilience and a positive trend in visitor numbers following the pandemic’s impact. It will be interesting to see how 2024 shapes up and what 2025 will bring, especially with the opening of Epic Universe.

Annual Universal Theme Park Revenue Statistics

(Revenue for all Universal Theme Parks Worldwide)

• 2018: 5.68 billion
• 2019: 5.93 billion
• 2020: 2.09 billion
• 2021: 5.05 billion
• 2022: 7.54 billion
• 2023: 8.95 billion

The parks experienced a remarkable recovery following the pandemic’s impact. By 2021, their revenue rebounded to around $5.05 billion, and in 2022, it surged to $7.54 billion, reflecting a strong resurgence in visitor attendance and spending. This upward trend continued into 2023, with revenue reaching approximately $8.95 billion, indicating sustained growth and a flourishing return to form. However, it’s worth noting that Universal Orlando Resort saw a slight decrease in attendance during this period (as highlighted above).

Looking ahead, 2024 is yet to be reported and will be particularly interesting to watch, especially considering the positive momentum observed in recent years and the continued expansion at Universal Parks. It will be fascinating to see how these revenue statistics evolve and whether they can surpass the records set in 2023.

Universal Employee Statistics

• Number of Employees: 28,000+

In 2019, the resort had roughly 27,000 employees. However, due to the pandemic, Universal Orlando Resort was forced to lay off 1123 employees in 2020. In early 2022, Universal Orlando Resort announced a plan to hire 2,500 additional employees. As a result, the employee count stands at just over 28,000 (2024).

Universal Orlando Resort is a significant economic engine for the region, providing good-paying jobs for Central Floridians. The resort is also an important tourist destination, bringing billions of dollars of economic activity to the area each year. Universal Orlando Resort is an essential part of the Central Florida community, and its employees are integral to the local economy.

Rides and Attractions Statistics

• Universal Studios Florida: 14 Rides and Attractions (2023)
• Islands of Adventure: 19 Rides and Attractions (2023)
• Oldest Ride: E.T. Adventure

Universal Studios Florida features 14 rides and attractions based on popular films and TV shows, including Harry Potter, Transformers, and The Simpsons. Islands of Adventure features 19 rides and attractions inspired by comic books, legends, and myths. Visitors can explore The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, ride on The Incredible Hulk Coaster, or come face-to-face with dinosaurs at Jurassic Park River Adventure.

When Universal Studios first opened its doors to the public on June 7th, 1990, there were a total of 13 rides available. Of those rides, ET’s Adventure is the only one still in operation today. The other 12 original rides have either been closed down or have undergone significant changes. Despite the changes over the years, ET’s Adventure remains a popular attraction for visitors of all ages.

Shows at Universal Orlando Resort

• Universal Studios Florida: 6 Shows
• Islands of Adventure: 3 Shows

There are nine shows across both Universal Orlando Resort theme parks. The shows vary in length, but most last between 20 and 30 minutes.

Guests can enjoy three different shows at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, including Frog Choir, Oh! The Stories You’ll Hear!, and Triwizard Spirit Rally. There are also seven different shows at Universal Studios Florida, such as The Bourne Stuntacular, Universal Orlando’s Horror Make-Up Show, The Blues Brothers Show, The Tales of Beedle the Bard, Animal Actors On Location!, and Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees. Guests can choose which show they want to see based on their interests and preferences.

Dining Statistics at Universal Orlando Resort

• Full-Service Restaurants at Theme Parks: 4 (2 at each theme park)
• Full-Service Restaurants at CityWalk: 11
• Full-Service Restaurants at Universal Hotels: 19

Universal Orlando Resort is home to a wide variety of dining options, with something to suit every taste and budget. There are dozens of full-service (table service) restaurants across the theme parks, hotels, CityWalk, and even more quick-service (counter service) locations.

Theme Park Dining Statistics 

Universal Studios Florida has two full-service restaurants, 17 quick-service locations, 4 bars/lounges, and over two dozen food carts/stands. Table service restaurants include Lombard’s Seafood Grille and Finnegan’s Bar & Grill, a pub-style eatery with an Irish flair. Several quick-service restaurants themed after the Simpsons are located along Fast Food Boulevard.

Universal’s Islands of Adventure has two full-service restaurants, 20 quick-service locations, two lounges, and over two dozen food carts/stands. Table service options include the Three Broomsticks, which serves traditional British fare such as fish and chips and shepherd’s pie in Hogsmeade Village, and the famed Mythos Restaurant, which offers Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.

CityWalk Dining Statistics

Universal’s CityWalk is home to a wide variety of dining options, perfect for every taste and budget. There are 11 full-service restaurants, 13 quick-service locations, 3 bars, and six food carts. At CityWalk, you’ll find everything from Mexican food to a Bob Marley-themed restaurant and some of your favorite chains like Hard Rock Cafe and Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.

Universal Hotel Dining Statistics

There are a total of 19 full-service restaurants across the eight on-site Universal Orlando Resort hotels. Hard Rock Hotel has three, Loews Portofino Bay Hotel has five, Loews Royal Pacific Resort has five, Loews Sapphire Falls Resort has two, and Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort has one. Neither Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites nor Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites has any full-service restaurants. In addition to the full-service restaurants, all hotels have at least one quick-service restaurant, and many also have lounges or bars.

Universal Orlando Resort Hotel Statistics

• On-Site Hotels: 8
• Hotel Rooms: 9,000

Universal Orlando Resort has eight on-site hotels offering approximately 9,000 rooms.

The hotels are divided into four categories. There are 3 Premier hotels, 1 Preferred hotel, 2 Prime Value hotels, and 2 Value hotels.

Universal’s Premier Hotels are its luxurious accommodations. These include Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel, and Loews Royal Pacific Resort. The Preferred hotel is Hilton Orlando – a beautiful property that overlooks Universal Studios Florida park. The Prime Value hotels are Cabana Bay Beach Resort and Aventura Hotel, which offer great value for money with their modern facilities and impeccable service. Finally, the Value hotels are Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites and Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites. These two properties are perfect for guests looking for budget-friendly accommodations that are still close to all the action.

Universal Orlando Resort Location Stats

• Distance to Walt Disney World Resort: 8.6 Miles
• Distance to Orlando International Airport (MCO): 16.4 Miles
• Distance to Kennedy Space Center: 58 miles
• Distance to the Nearest Beach: 65.3 Miles

The Universal Orlando Resort is located in the heart of Central Florida, just minutes away from all the best that Orlando has to offer. Walt Disney World is just 8.6 miles away, making it an easy day trip for guests staying at Universal Orlando Resort. The Orlando International Airport (MCO) is just 16.4 miles away, making it a quick and convenient option for travelers coming from out of town. And for those looking to enjoy some time in the sun, the nearest beach is just a short drive away (65.3 miles to Cocoa Beach). With so much to see and do nearby, Universal Orlando Resort is the perfect place to stay for your next Orlando vacation.