ORLANDO, Fla. – Universal Orlando stared offering free parking after 6 p.m. this week that could boost Universal CityWalk as a popular destination for people who skipped the theme parks, opting for the district's shopping, dining and entertainment options.
“Everyone gets free parking after 6 p.m., starting today!” Universal Orlando tweeted Wednesday.
Theme Park spokesperson Sarah Porter said complimentary parking will be open to all guests after 6 p.m., except for on nights when Halloween Horror Night events happen. This year’s Halloween Horror Night dates have not been announced yet.
The free parking change could be competition for the already free parking options at the completely redesigned Disney Springs.
Universal Orlando has two parking garages with access to the theme parks and Universal CityWalk.
Before 6 p.m., parking fees range from $30 for preferred parking to $20 for regular parking. Florida residents were already offered free parking after 6 p.m. with a state-issued ID.
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Should guests skip the Islands of Adventure or Universal Studios all together, they can take advantage of the free parking after 6 p.m. at CityWalk.
TFW EVERYONE gets FREE parking after 6pm, starting today! (Not valid on HHN event nights.) pic.twitter.com/BBsZ884Wre
— Universal Orlando Resort (@UniversalORL) February 1, 2017
Universal CityWalk stores and restaurants open from 11 a.m., and some nighttime locations close as late as 2 a.m.
The nightlife-driven destination doesn’t require a ticket to visit the variety of dining options, including the new Toothsome Chocolate Emporiums & Savory Feast Kitchen, Hard Rock Café and Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville.
CityWalk also has a movie theater, mini-golf course, and on certain dates, live entertainment.
Islands of Adventure and Universal close as early as 6 p.m. on some days and as late at 10 p.m. a few days of the month.
Universal is set to open their latest addition, Volcano Bay, a water theme park, on May 25. The new park's hours have not been announced yet.
For more information on Universal Orlando theme park hours and parking click here.
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