About Universal CityWalk
Universal CityWalk is the dining, shopping, and entertainment complex connecting Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay. Spanning the walkway between the parking structures and the theme parks, CityWalk features over 30 restaurants, bars, shops, and entertainment venues. Admission to CityWalk is free.
History of Universal CityWalk
Universal CityWalk opened in 1999 alongside Islands of Adventure as the entertainment hub of Universal Orlando Resort. Modeled after Universal CityWalk in Hollywood, the Orlando version has grown into a premier nightlife and dining destination. The complex has been continuously updated with new restaurants and venues, including the addition of VIVO Italian Kitchen, Toothsome Chocolate Emporium, and Bigfire.
Park Areas & Lands
🎵 Entertainment Row
Live music and nightlife venues including Rising Star karaoke, Red Coconut Club, and the groove dance club.
🍽️ Restaurant Row
Over 20 dining options ranging from quick-service to upscale table-service restaurants.
🎬 AMC Universal Cineplex
A 20-screen movie theater with reclining seats and dine-in options.
Must-Do Attractions
- Toothsome Chocolate Emporium - A steampunk-themed restaurant and chocolate factory with towering milkshakes, artisan chocolates, and full dinner menu
- Bob Marley - A Tribute to Freedom - Live reggae music venue recreating Bob Marley's home in Kingston, Jamaica with outdoor courtyard seating
- Rising Star - Interactive karaoke experience where you perform on stage backed by a live band - one of the most fun nightlife spots in Orlando
- Blue Man Group - The iconic Blue Man Group performs at their dedicated theater at CityWalk with high-energy shows combining music, art, and comedy
- Bigfire - Open-fire cooking restaurant serving flame-grilled steaks, seafood, and craft cocktails with a rustic-chic atmosphere
Insider Tips
- CityWalk is free to enter - no admission required for dining or shopping
- Parking is free after 6 PM, making CityWalk an affordable evening out
- The CityWalk Party Pass ($13) provides access to all nightclub venues for one night
- Toothsome Chocolate Emporium does not take reservations - arrive before 6 PM or after 9 PM to minimize waits
- Happy hour deals at multiple restaurants make CityWalk a more affordable dining option than in-park restaurants
- The miniature golf courses (Hollywood Drive-In Golf) are open late and fun for groups
Best Times to Visit
CityWalk is busiest on Friday and Saturday nights and during holiday periods. Weekday evenings offer a more relaxed experience. Restaurants are most crowded from 6-8 PM. After 10 PM, the nightlife scene picks up with live music and dancing.
Tickets & Pricing
CityWalk is free to enter. Individual venues have their own pricing. CityWalk Party Pass ($13) covers nightclub admission. Blue Man Group tickets start at $59. Hollywood Drive-In Golf starts at $17. AMC movie tickets at standard pricing.
Dining at Universal CityWalk
CityWalk's dining lineup includes Toothsome Chocolate Emporium (steampunk-themed chocolate factory), Bigfire (open-fire grilled cuisine), VIVO Italian Kitchen (fresh pasta), Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food, The Cowfish (burger and sushi fusion), Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville, and NBC Sports Grill and Brew. Quick-service options include Bread Box Handcrafted Sandwiches, BK Whopper Bar, and Menchie's Frozen Yogurt.
Official Resources
Group Visit to Universal CityWalk? BusBrother drops your group at the front gate and picks you up after the fireworks. No parking fees, no rideshare surge. Round trip, multi-stop, ADA accessible. Get a free quote.