How Much Does Parking Cost At Universal Studios Orlando?

This article is here to break things down and show you how much parking actually costs at Universal Studios Orlando. There are many different options, so you should understand how this is calculated before going to the parks. This is updated for the 2022 season and will provide you with the answer to how much does parking cost at Universal Studios Orlando.

How Much Does Parking Cost?

Universal Studios Orlando has an impressively large parking garage along with other surface lot options. The parking garage charges $27-$60 depending on the type of parking you choose. When choosing between a garage, surface lot, or public transit, the public transit option is obviously the cheapest.

Here are the daily rates Universal Studios charges for parking:

• Prime Parking – $60
• Prime Upgrade – $33
• RV / Bus Parking – $32
• Regular Parking – $27

Why is Parking So Expensive?

To Be honest I do not have a clear answer to why it is so expensive to park. I understand there is a maintenance cost to maintain and operate the parking garage and lots, but for me, theme park parking always seems a little bit of a scam and is nothing more than a money-making machine for theme parks.

I guess you could also consider the security and parking employees an expense that needs to be paid for. However, these parks make a killing off parking for those who are not staying on any of the parks’ property hotels.

For the most part, they offer discounts for tickets for more than 1 day. This means that it’s almost cheaper to purchase a 5-day ticket than it is a two-day ticket. So let’s say you and your family do go to the park for 5 straight days that’s $27 a day and your weekly cost for parking ends up being $135 just for your car to sit in a parking spot.

Now that’s a money-making machine, especially when you estimate there to be enough spaces for over 10,000 cars. If full just at the flat rate that would account for over $270,000 in revenue each day.

That’s mindblowing…

How much does Valet parking cost at Universal Studios?

Valet parking at Universal Studios Orlando is available but can be costly. Before 6 pm valet parking will cost you $27 for 2 hours and $75 for over 2 hours.

After 6 pm the rates are as follows:

• $27.00 for 2 hours
• $40.00 for over 2 hours
• $50.00 for over 2 hours on Mardi Gras concert nights

For pass holders, there are better options and a way better price. If you are preferred annual pass holders you can get up to 50% off. The best deal however is if you have a premier annual pass that gives you free valet parking that is subject to availability.

What Time Can You Park for Free?

There is free parking for park guests after 6 pm. This is not available during their Halloween Horror Nights.

If you are going to City Walk and going to a matinee movie, you can get free regular parking between 11 am – 6 pm with the purchase of 2 or more Universal Cinemark tickets. You will have to pay the fee upon arriving but then get reimbursed when you present the movie ticket.

Is there a place to be dropped off for free?

Yes, you can be picked up and dropped off at Universal Studios Florida. There is a dedicated location for this service. You must follow the signs for Uber, taxi services, and other drop-off services. The location is in the north parking garage in the Jurassic Park section.