How is it in late August?

[agent86]

I just booked a trip for my girlfriend and myself to go in just about 3 weeks. It will be a really short trip. We are getting there on 8/23 and leaving on 8/26. I noticed the hours drop back to closing at 7pm by then, but I assume that's because kids are returning to school and that's probably why.

Does anyone know what the crowds are like during this time? I've been there in most other months, but never during that specific time. Should we even bother purchasing a Universal Express Pass? The price for it drops to around $25 during that time, but I'm wondering if most of the attractions will be pretty much walk on anyway.

I was actually just there in June, and never dreamed I'd be going back so soon. But we got a really good deal on airfare and hotel.

 

[jen2009]

I just booked a trip for my girlfriend and myself to go in just about 3 weeks. It will be a really short trip. We are getting there on 8/23 and leaving on 8/26. I noticed the hours drop back to closing at 7pm by then, but I assume that's because kids are returning to school and that's probably why.

Does anyone know what the crowds are like during this time? I've been there in most other months, but never during that specific time. Should we even bother purchasing a Universal Express Pass? The price for it drops to around $25 during that time, but I'm wondering if most of the attractions will be pretty much walk on anyway.

I was actually just there in June, and never dreamed I'd be going back so soon. But we got a really good deal on airfare and hotel.

we went in august of 2007. the crowds were small and the parks were open late on the special days. the only thing i could say was that it was VERY HOT!!!! make sure to drink plenty of water and stay cool. otherwise than that, the price made up for it. have fun!!

 

[WDWKat26]

Late August is great, because the crowds are small. All of the Florida kids are back in school, which makes the wait times lower. But, like Jen said above me it's REALLY hot. As long as you don't mind the heat you'll be fine. My suggestion is to wear your bathing suit to the park, head to Toon Lagoon at IOA to cool down. As for the Studios, go to Curious George's play area - there's tons of water!

 

[lisak09]

We went late August last year & we're back in Orlando on the 15th August this year. I didn't think the crowds were too bad last year but we did still buy the Universal Express Pass'es. We will probably get them again this year as i think its worth it.

 

[crazydaveh]

Like others have said, it's HOT here in August, so keep cool with the Happy Hours at the bars in the parks!

 

[patches39]

what is a universal express pass? i am going on aug 28th. we have never heard of this before.

 

[khelinski]

what is a universal express pass? i am going on aug 28th. we have never heard of this before.

It's Universal's own version of fast pass (and in case you do not know what that means, it's a pass you get to bypass the long lines, hence the name).

Only damper is Universal's version entails you buying it. :shrug: In my own personal opinion, I find it a great rip off, but many others claim it's worth it.

And if you are going for a short amount of time (a day or two), there is a lot to see and do, so it may actually be worth it for own self. Just realize you are coughing up extra money for it.

 

[patches39]

so it is for universal, not disney then? thanks for answering!

 

[crazydaveh]

Only damper is Universal's version entails you buying it. :shrug: In my own personal opinion, I find it a great rip off, but many others claim it's worth it.

And if you are going for a short amount of time (a day or two), there is a lot to see and do, so it may actually be worth it for own self. Just realize you are coughing up extra money for it.

If it's a hot and really busy day, or if it's the Holidays... It's worth it, especially if you have children with you!

You get this free if you stay at one of the Universal resorts.

 

[agent86]

Thanks everyone for your responses! I really appreciate the advice. Gosh, I had pretty much ruled out getting the Express Pass because as khelinski mentioned, I've always kind of thought of it as a bit of a rip off. But since we will only have one day to see both parks, and I really want my girlfriend to see as much as possible, maybe we'll do it.