Anyone who follows me on Twitter (@JoeCortez) may recall my rather recent experience at a gaming convention in Orlando. Both the flight and hotel were an easy decision, thanks to my colleague’s tips on how to save money by being a mystery shopper and the ability to get bonuses by status matching at my hotel chain.
The one challenge I faced was what to do after I bombed out after losing straight sets.
Widely considered the amusement park capital of America, Walt Disney World and Universal Studios Orlando headline a number of tourist attractions in the area. Most important to my quest for personal amusement were the two “free” areas of both resorts: Disney Springs and Universal Citywalk.
Separated by only ten miles, my curiosity had to be satisfied: which amusement park free area was the best? Armed with little more than a phone and walking shoes, I set out to find out.
Disney Springs: A low-cost adventure for all types of families
My first stop took me to Disney Springs, the free shopping district that is connected by bus and taxi to all of the Walt Disney World resort parks. As the hubs created to keep those staying in the Disney Resort within the resort, this shopping district did not disappoint.
With over 100 retailers in walking distance, shopping options abound for those looking for the right souvenir or memento from their Orlando trip. Furthermore, while most of the shops had some sort of Disney theme to them, not all of the shops were branded by a Disney property (now including Star Wars and Marvel). Among the offerings in Disney Springs were a cigar shop, a bowling alley and full bar, as well as restaurants ranging from fast-casual to reservations-required.
Shopping was not the only attraction at Disney Springs. The more interactive items included rides in an observation balloon with a view of the Disney theme park property. At $20 per ride, it could have been a frugal experience for one – but an expensive venture for a family.
This brings me to the one con I experienced with Disney Springs. Despite being outside of the theme park area, I found myself paying resort prices for almost everything. From the food options to even low-cost souvenirs, everything I ran across would cost nearly as much as if I were in the theme park proper.
With an interest in seeing more than met my experience, my next stop took me up the road 12 miles, and a taxi ride of $25. Lesson learned: utilize public transportation or ridesharing when in Orlando.
Universal Orlando CityWalk: Something for everyone, but geared towards adults
Competing directly with Disney Springs is the Universal Orlando CityWalk: the free area outside the Universal Theme Parks, leading directly into each. After a quick stop through a TSA-style security checkpoint, I was free to roam the attraction area outside of both Universal Studios Orlando and Worlds of Adventure.
Unlike Disney Springs, CityWalk was noticeably smaller, but offered direct access to the theme parks. While Disney Springs had a mix of stores from brands I was well aware of, Universal CityWalk offered a lesser mix of brands, from their own retail shops to global stalwarts like Hard Rock Café. When it came time to eat, I had my choice of everything from fast-casual to full-service restaurants. To my surprise, the fast food options were actually affordable, with prices similar to what I would find outside of the theme park area.
During my walkthrough, I found many of my entertainment options were limited to certain hours of the day, with many of them opening in the evening and closing around 2 a.m. Among them were a karaoke bar featuring a live band, an Irish Pub and a dance club featuring local DJs. Outside of those attractions, what was there left to do besides eat, shop, or visit the theme parks? Watch a movie, or play miniature golf at one of the two courses.
Which “free” area offers the best for my buck?
Both free areas offer something unique for different audiences. Disney Springs is definitely oriented towards family fun, offering all the shopping, attractions and performances to keep everyone amused for the day. However, Universal CityWalk was definitely geared more towards the adults, with plenty of fun for when the sun goes down and the kids go to bed.
If I were forced to stay at an amusement park with a family, Disney Springs would definitely be my first choice of amusement park area fun, while Universal CityWalk is where I would go in the evening with a group of friends. No matter which you choose, each offers at least a quarter-day’s worth of entertainment and a well needed break from amusement park overload.
Which amusement park free area is your favorite? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!
Written by Frugal Travel Guy @ http://www.frugaltravelguy.com
Written by Frugal Travel Guy @ http://www.frugaltravelguy.com