Just like airlines, Disney and Universal use dynamic pricing, meaning that ticket prices and hotel rates fluctuate based on demand. This can have a big impact on your vacation budget!
The bottom line? Certain times of the year are simply more expensive due to school breaks, holidays, and special events (looking at you, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and Halloween Horror Nights!).
Every Orlando vacation has a few key elements that shape the final price. These are the big-ticket items—the non-negotiables—that will set the foundation for your budget. The good news? There are plenty of ways to adjust your budget to fit your needs, whether you’re planning a budget-friendly getaway or a once-in-a-lifetime vacation.
A Guide to Making Magic Happen
So, you’re dreaming of a vacation to visit Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando First off—great choice! Whether you’re envisioning yourself strolling down Main Street, U.S.A. or grabbing a Butterbeer in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, there’s nothing quite like an Orlando vacation. But let’s be real—these trips aren’t cheap, and planning them can feel as complex as navigating the Grid on TRON Lightcycle / Run.
Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras 2025 is back, and it’s bringing more than just dazzling parades, bead-throwing madness, and live music that’ll have you dancing like a Minion on a sugar rush. This year’s International Flavour’s of Carnaval is a foodie’s dream, serving up a globetrotting feast that rivals even the most magical Butterbeer infused fantasies. From New Orleans-inspired classics to international street food, Universal has whipped up a menu that’ll make your taste buds scream louder than a first-time rider on VelociCoaster.