How to Get From Aventura to the Universal Parks (Transportation Guide)
When our clients stay at Universal’s Aventura Hotel, we often get asked how to get from this resort to the parks.
Luckily, it’s incredibly easy to get around. Below, I will “walk” you through the best ways to reach Epic Universe, Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, CityWalk, and Volcano Bay.
Aventura to Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and CityWalk:
Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and CityWalk all share the same main entrance complex, so the transportation is the same for all three.
Complimentary Shuttle Buses
The easiest and most common way is by using Universal’s free shuttle buses. The buses start running an hour before the parks open (including Early Park Admission hours) and stop running an hour after CityWalk closes (roughly 2am).
They operate continuously throughout the day, picking you up right outside the hotel and dropping you off at the main security hub near CityWalk. From there, you walk through CityWalk to reach either Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure.
Although not perfect, I’m typically impressed with the frequency of buses, which is every 10-15 minutes. Even if you just miss the bus at your hotel, it’s not long until the next one shows up.
To get back to Aventura, you meet at the same spot you were dropped off. It can get busy at certain times, such as when the park closes.
Walking Path
If you’re up for some exercise, there’s a pedestrian pathway that connects Aventura to CityWalk. It’s about 20 minutes, depending on your pace. This can be a nice option in the morning or evening when the Florida sun isn’t quite so strong.
The approximately 1.5-mile walking path ends at CityWalk, right next to Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville and incredibly close to Islands of Adventure.
One benefit of walking is that you will go through a small security checkpoint here, where the line is usually short. As opposed to going through the main central security checkpoint, where the bus passengers and general parking enter.
Rideshare or Taxi
For ultimate convenience, you can call an Uber, Lyft, or taxi. Drop-off is right at the same central security hub as the buses, making this a great choice if you’re in a hurry, coming back late at night, or simply don’t want to share a bus with dozens of other people.
It’s a short drive, so the cost of an Uber is usually around $10 one-way.
Aventura to Epic Universe:
Epic Universe is Universal’s brand-new theme park. Transportation from Aventura to Epic Universe looks a little different than the other parks, since it’s at a different location.
Complimentary Shuttles
The only free way to get to Epic Universe from Aventura is to take the designated shuttle bus. It picks you up right outside the hotel and takes about 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic, to get there.
Universal has confirmed there will be free shuttles running between the resort hotels (including Aventura) and Epic Universe. These buses will likely pick you up in the same spot as the ones going to CityWalk.
Rideshare/Taxi
Since Epic Universe is farther away than the other parks, using Uber or Lyft is a convenient option if you don’t want to wait for the shuttle. Expect the ride to take 10–15 minutes, depending on traffic.
No walking!
Epic Universe is too far away from Aventura to walk. You need to catch a ride on the bus or take an Uber/Lyft/taxi.
Aventura to Volcano Bay Water Park:
One of the best perks of Aventura is its location directly across the street from Volcano Bay.
Dedicated Walking Path
There’s a short, exclusive walking path from Aventura’s back entrance straight to Volcano Bay’s security gate. You’ll be at the park in just a few minutes. No bus needed.
No Shuttle Buses!
Because it’s so close, Universal does not provide a shuttle bus to Volcano Bay from Aventura.
Final Tips
- Use the water taxis at Sapphire Falls:
There are no water taxis at Aventura Hotel, but it’s a short walk to the ones at Sapphire Falls Resort. From there, you can ride along a beautiful waterway to CityWalk, providing easy access to Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida. It’s also a separate security line from the bus drop-off and general parking, which saves time!
- Buses typically run every 10–15 minutes, so you’re never waiting long.
- Walking paths are safe, well-lit, and a great way to avoid crowds.
- Rideshares are a good backup plan if you’re running late or don’t want to share a bus with dozens of other guests.
- If Volcano Bay is on your list, Aventura is one of the absolute best hotels for convenience. It doesn’t get any closer!
No matter which park you’re heading to, staying at Aventura Hotel makes it simple to get around Universal Orlando.
Between the walking paths, free shuttles, and convenient rideshares, you’ll always have an easy way to get where you need to go.
If you’d like personalized tips to make your vacation even smoother, or if you’d like me to handle the planning for you, I’d love to help.
From choosing the best tickets to booking the right hotel and sharing insider advice, I make sure your trip to Universal Orlando is stress-free and full of fun.
Ready to start planning? Contact us today to book your Universal Orlando vacation!
