12 Important Tips for Universal Orlando With Autism

Universal Orlando Resort can be a stressful place for people with autism. You should know. I love parks, but I’m autistic.

Over the years, I’ve learned a lot while enjoying my time and trying not to get too stressed out. These are Universal Orlando Resort’s 12 key facilities for people with autism.

1. Go on a less crowded day

Large crowds in parks can be a source of great stress for people with autism. Fortunately, there are some tools that can help you choose the best and least crowded days for sightseeing.companies like undercover traveler has created a calendar that predicts when parks will be busiest and least crowded. Wait times for attractions are another way to determine how crowded each area is that day.

2. Take breaks when you need them

In my experience, breaks are essential for everyone, not just neurodivergent people. Still, I believe it’s essential for autistic people to step away and take time to decompress when everything gets too much. My family likes to go back to the hotel for a few hours to cool down and even take a nap if needed.

3. Use ear protection in noisy areas

This tip is important for anyone who wants to participate in Halloween Horror Nights. The fear zone is full of things that go bump in the night, chainsaws, and screams. Adding narrow halls with loud noises can make the maze even worse. If you have a way to be quiet, you can make your time more enjoyable. But it’s not just this spooky time of year. Shows and rides can be quite noisy. We highly recommend bringing some kind of earplugs.

But be careful! Many of Universal’s rides do not allow earmuffs to be worn inside the rides, but more on that later.

4. Take advantage of quiet spaces that are gentle on the senses.

Like Disney World, Universal has quieter areas within the park that are less crowded. Unlike Disney World, Universal Orlando has a quiet room in the Family Health Services building at Universal Studios Florida. Universal has also released an online booklet for people with disabilities that includes a complete guide to quiet spots at each park.

5. Beware of loose article restrictions

For more strenuous rides, all luggage must be stored in a locker before entering the line. This includes earmuffs, headphones, and any items that are not attached to you. Fortunately, most rides allow the use of “spongy” earplugs.

6. Be aware of possible sensory issues

Universal can be a pretty intense place. Rides and shows have a variety of smells, movements, and special effects that some people may find unpleasant. Before you go, it’s a good idea to identify what makes you uncomfortable and see what has special effects. Thankfully, the aforementioned guide released by Universal lists each park’s rides, including descriptions, requirements, and special effects used.

There are also signs at the entrance to the attraction explaining what to expect. However, if you are sensitive to smells, you may want to stay away from the ET Adventure rides. Personally, I like it, but it’s quite old and the water has a strange smell.

7. Make effective use of the park app

Using the Universal Orlando parks app is a very useful tool. For example, you can check wait times for rides and attractions. The app also allows you to check restaurant menus and order food on your mobile. A map is also included for easier navigation.

8. Take someone with you

Even in stressful situations, it’s always reassuring to have a loved one by your side. Having someone with you to ground you, take you out of a situation, and make sure you’re taking care of yourself can make a world of difference.

9. Check the restaurant menu

If you or someone you’re visiting with has specific safe food needs, it’s a good idea to research the menu of the restaurant you want to visit in advance. The menu can be viewed online or in-store. universal orlando App. If you want, you can bring snacks to the park that you know are safe.

10. Download apps to use with Line

It doesn’t necessarily mean you can fidget or distract yourself from waiting in line. However, in most cases you will have a mobile phone. There’s nothing wrong with downloading a few apps without worrying about waiting times. be careful. Cell phones are considered loose property and must be put away before entering certain vehicles. Unless you have deep enough pockets and are part of something like VelociCoaster or The Incredible Hulk, you need to be safe when bringing it to the line.

11. Maximize your Premier Pass benefits on Universal Express after 4 p.m.

Here’s a tip if you already have a Premier Pass or are considering it. The Premier Pass is Universal’s premium annual pass, so unless you’re a frequent visitor, we don’t recommend buying it just for this tip. Enough disclaimer, let’s talk about Express Pass. These are Universal’s “Fast Passes,” which allow you to access rides faster through fast-moving lines.

You can purchase one Express Pass that allows you to skip the lines once per ride, or you can purchase an unlimited Express Pass that allows you to skip the lines as many times as you like. Both can be quite expensive. If you already frequent Universal and have a Premier Pass, it includes an unlimited pass after 4 p.m. Honestly, the Express Pass is something I think Universal does better than Disney World.

With Express Pass, there is almost no wait time and everything is walk-on. Hear from someone who’s had a Premier Pass for several years. You can do a few things in the morning, come back in the afternoon, take a break, pass by at 4 o’clock, come back, and then you can start work.

12. Consider the IBCCES Personal Accessibility Card

The Individual Accessibility Card (IAC) is the universal version of the Disney DAS pass. It’s convenient for people who can’t wait on conventional lines. IAC requires more steps than a DAS pass, but it may be exactly what you need for your trip. You must also register your card within 30 days of your trip. Proper documentation and discussion of requested accommodations with a Universal team member is also required.