What’s a Split Stay?
A split stay means you’ll spend part of your trip at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel, and the other part at a Universal Orlando Resort hotel. It’s the perfect way to enjoy both destinations while maximizing convenience and minimizing stress.
Why Universal Now Deserves At Least 3 Days
With three theme parks — Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and now Epic Universe — plus the option to add Volcano Bay, Universal has become a multi-day destination more than ever before
Here’s my new recommendation:
3 nights / 3 park days at Universal is now ideal.
- This gives you one full day in each theme park.
- If you want time at Volcano Bay, add an extra day!
Staying at a Universal hotel gives you built-in perks, shorter commutes, and more overall park time — something a rushed one-day visit can’t offer.
How Long Should You Stay?
Here’s what I typically suggest for the smoothest, most enjoyable Orlando vacation:
- Walt Disney World: 5 nights → plenty of time to visit all 4 parks without feeling overwhelmed.
- Universal Orlando: 2–3 nights, but truly 3 nights is the sweet spot now that Epic Universe is open.
Just like Disney, Universal has hotels for every style and budget, from value options to luxury Signature Resorts.
And don’t forget to build in a rest day if your schedule allows. With 6–7 theme parks total, your body will absolutely thank you for a little break.
Worried about how you'll get from Disney to Universal?
I can arrange your transportation between Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando ahead of time so you don’t have to worry about how you’re getting from one resort to the other. Just pack your bags and go — I’ll handle the logistics.