Universal CityWalk Orlando is a Florida vacation must-see. It’s so much more than a gateway to the Universal Orlando Resort theme parks (all park visitors pass through it). It’s really an Orlando destination unto itself.
The 30-acre entertainment and dining complex is loaded with restaurants, entertainment, shopping and nightlife. You could easily spend a whole day there and never be bored, and if you’re visiting the theme parks, it’s a great way to take a break from the crowds and grab a relaxing bite to eat. Also, Universal CityWalk Orlando remains open until 2 am so you can enjoy plenty of nightlife after the parks close.
If you’re staying in one of the on-site hotels (see my post on Loews Royal Pacific Resort), it’s a short water taxi ride or stroll away.
Restaurants
I’ve been to Universal CityWalk Orlando so many times now that I’ve eaten in almost every restaurant there. My goal is to conquer them all! During my recent media trip, I ticked another one off the list and enjoyed a phenomenal meal at The Cowfish – a newly opened sushi burger bar. Yep, I said sushi burger bar — they serve both, and they do it very, very well!
The Cowfish serves loads of sushi and gourmet burger options and even a fusion of the two called “Burgushi”. Our group started by sharing some appetizers — fried pickles, Parmesan truffle fries and edamame, and I think we got close to cleaning those plates!
I ordered the Texas Longhorn Burger and they cooked it exactly as I asked which very rarely happens for me, so it was a big dang deal. It was an extraordinarily delicious half-pound beef burger with cheddar cheese, onion strings, jalapeño bacon, tangy BBQ sauce, lettuce and tomato on a brioche bun with a choice of sides. Since we had fries as an appetizer, I opted for grilled vegetables.
And then dessert happened. Oh how it happened. We sampled key lime and mandarin cheesecake, lemon berry shortcake, cinnamon sugar wontons, cookies and milk, ice cream and a “yummy roll” which was pastry cream, gummy strips rolled with sponge cake and sweet almond wrap. Save room for dessert; it’s worth it! Oh, and it’s worth mentioning that the wait staff was superb.
Another Universal CityWalk Orlando restaurant I tried for the first time was Antojitos, an authentic and lively Mexican eatery. Since we were eating really late that night, I just had an appetizer as a meal. We also had fresh guacamole prepared tableside, and enjoyed a live band on stage as we ate dinner. It was a really fun atmosphere, and the food was incredible.
Click here to check out all the other Universal CityWalk Orlando restaurants.
Entertainment
Hollywood Drive-in Golf – Mini-golf is an activity the entire family can enjoy, and the 36 holes on this course capture the fun and silliness of 1950’s horror movies.
Movies – There are 20 screens at this AMC movie theater, including IMAX, so whether it’s a rainy day or just an evening off your feet, going to a movie is a great option.
Blue Man Group – If you get the chance to go see Blue Man Group at Universal Florida, go! I saw it last fall with my daughter, and we had the best time. I can’t even tell you how much we laughed!
Nightlife
Whether you’re looking for live music, dancing, karaoke, or a dueling piano bar, you’ll find it within Universal CityWalk Orlando. About half of our blogger group were regulars at Rising Star while we were there. It’s karaoke, but it’s karaoke with a live band and that’s the first time I’ve ever heard of that. Fun!
My favorite place to go is Pat O’Brien’s for the dueling pianos, great food and delicious Hurricane cocktails. They take song requests, but even if you don’t ask, I guarantee you’ll hear songs you love. It’s so much fun!
Adults age 21 and over also have the option of buying a “Party Pass” ($11.99) to club hop without paying individual cover charges for the whole evening. You can’t beat that, since there are a good half dozen venues to visit.
Shopping
With more than 60 places to shop, including a Universal Studios store, you’re not likely to go home empty-handed. You can buy traditional souvenirs, apparel, accessories, jewelry, shoes, pretty much anything you could want.
For more information on Universal CityWalk Orlando, visit the Universal Orlando Resort website.
Jim B. Myles says
You must had a good time. Thank for sharing, it’s absolutely adorable
dickvincedorry says
a perfect place to hangout and dine. . .
Angela Christoper says
I’ve never been there, looks exciting and fun. You had a tons of fun experienced. I’d love to go there one day.
jueal says
you’re not likely to go home empty-handed. You can buy traditional souvenirs, apparel, accessories, jewelry, shoes, pretty much anything you could want.
valerie g says
looks like a blast. we love blue man. we are actually seeing them next month.
Amanda Love says
We’re heading to Disney World this summer but we’re going for 2 weeks and Universal is on our list to head to so thanks for this post.
TweenselMom says
Your place seems so be so cool, we’d love to be there sometime.
Tonia @TheChattyMomma says
I absolutely love CityWalk. It’s such a nice place to take a break in between parks too. There’s food for everyone which makes my life easier. No fighting with the kids. We all get what we want there.
Peachy @ The Peach Kitchen says
I hope I get to visit Universal Citywalk in Orlando. The Burgushi is very intriguing! Looks like you had lots of fun!
Modern Pilgrim says
I will be in Orlando next summer so I will check some of these out. Thanks for sharing! I love Universal Studios!!
Ashley says
That burger looks amazing! I can’t wait to go to Universal and see the Universal CityWalk Orlando!
Jhoveleen says
Those foods look delicious! Hopefully we could visit Florida one day, it is a place with full of fun!
Lena says
Such a great place to visit with so much to see and so much to do. One day I will get there
candice says
what fun! i can’t wait to explore this with my family.
Alicia says
I love Orlando, but have never been to these destinations! I will have to remember these for next time. I have not been though since 2003.
Melanie says
That looks like a ton of fun! Lots to do and see. Great pictures!
Katherine says
Totally love the blue man group. They are amazing!
Jennifer @ Mom Spotted says
I’ve always done Disney but recently decided after our next trip I want to try Universal now that they boys will be getting older. You just convinced me! I never knew that Universal was so big!
Life as a Convert says
The food and entertainment look amazing. I’d love to go visit one day!
Julie M. says
I haven’t been to Universal Studios in so long. But I’m definitely feeling jealous right now!
Censie says
Looks fun!! I have never been to Florida!
Mariana says
This part of Universal looks so fun! So many great places to eat!
AJ @ NutriFitMama says
I want to go here, it looks like a ton of fun!
Yona Williams says
What a fun picture you and your daughter took with the Blue Man Group guy! I love visiting places that have a lot of bright lights, color, and food!
RUBZONLINE says
One of the places I wanted to visit is Orlando, Florida. I wanted to visit all the resorts there and experience the sights and sounds it offers. It is a dream destination for me and my kids.
Thanks for sharing your photos. They are wonderful!
Ellen ThatChicMom says
What a fun thing to do, I haven’t been since I was a kid so obviously I never saw this side! I would love to go as an adult now!
Tough Cookie Mommy says
It definitely looks like a lot of fun. I definitely would like to visit with my family and have some fun.
katrina g says
sign me up, that looks like a blast!!!
Bonnie @ wemake7 says
I would love to visit there someday! Looks like a great time with great food and activities.
CourtneyLynne says
Universal Studios really is the best place ever!!! So much to do. Blue man group really is a great show too. I loved it when I saw it 🙂
CourtneyLynne says
Universal studios I
Emily says
You always have so much fun with your daughter. I hope my kids want to hang out with me when they grow up. Love the new blog!
Chrystal @ YUM eating says
My mother and I were always very close. I always make time to hang out with her. I hope kiddo does the same when she gets older.
Camesha says
We have city walk here in the LA area. We don’t go nearly enough!
I don’t think we have Cowfish though! That place sounds fabulous. Two of my faves, burgers and sushi!
dogvills says
It looks like you had a blast. I love the selection of food. It looks so good
Ashleigh Walls says
Oh I would love to eat at Antojitos! It sounds and looks fantastic, live music too? That had to be a fun atmosphere.
Debra says
Wow! This looks like SUCH a fun place!
Chrystal @ YUM eating says
That places looks like a foodies dream come true. I have no idea how I would pick which place to eat at.
Stephanie C. says
Wow – this looks like so much fun! The food – the things to see. I would definitely want to visit the Cowfish – that food….so yummy looking!
noelle d says
I had no clue there was so much to do besides just the theme parks!!!
Thanks for the heads up!!!
Lois Jones says
Wow, there really is a lot to do there. The food looks amazing!
Ericka Chatman says
It looks like you had an amazing time at Universal CityWalk Orlando! I’ve never been to Orlando so I’ll have to put this on my list of things to do when I visit.
Kelly Hutchinson says
I had no idea there was so much night life at Universal. My kids would love the Drive IN Golf and the Karaoke.
Ashley @irishred02 says
the cowfish looks like a place I would love to eat. thanks for sharing
Wendy says
We spent some time in Orlando this summer, and our favorite place was Universal and CitiWalk! There was so much to see and do! My son is begging to go back.
Cat Davis says
I just love City Walk! The Vivo Italian Kitchen is my favorite restaurant there. I can’t wait to get back and get some more chicken parmigiana!
Ann Bacciaglia says
Universal CityWalk Orlando looks like an amazing place. The food looks delicios. I would love to go to Universal Orlando.
Roselynn says
I have never been to Orlando, but I imagine the possibilities for entertainment. I really would love to go for the food if nothing else, I have heard of a lot fantastic restaurants.
Dawn McAlexander says
We were in Orlando in October, but we missed out on Universal Studios. That just means we will have to go back 🙂 The City Walk looks super cool!
Franc Ramon says
There are a lot of food and entertainment attraction at Universal Citywalk. This makes it a perfect place for the family.
Avry says
I’ve decided I need a vacation! How fun and upbeat all your pictures look
Dawn McAlexander says
I told my husband just the other day that I need a vacation every three months! Haha! Now we’ll see if he follows through…
Penelope says
This is someplace I’d love to visit with my family. There really is something for everyone, and most of it is great for all ages and family friendly…and you guys look so awesome by the way!
Kori says
It really looks like there’s a lot to do there! From the food to the nightlife to the shopping. I also love that they have a party pass option.
Elaina says
This looks like so much fun! And the restaurants look like they have a great menu!
cat says
I haven’t been to universal orlando, but I hope to soon. I will definitely be checking this out. Thanks for sharing!
Jocelyn McGaffic says
I’ve only been to City Walk once since moving to Florida. Your post makes me want to make another trip!
Crystal Wachoski says
It looks like you had a fabulous time. I will have to try Cowfish.
lisa @bitesforbabies says
The sights looks amazing but I have to say that I am more attracted by the food!! In the last couple of years, all I can think about when I travel is what and where to eat, lol!
michele d says
I’ve been there many many times. The nightlife there is unbelievable!
Lauren says
I’m so excited that you got to see the blue man group! I love that show so much!
Shaney Vijendranath says
I’ve never been to Orlando or the U.S but I really want to visit soon. You guys have such great tourist attraction places. It would definitely be one awesome holiday.
Pauline C. says
I would love to come and visit Orlando again! I can’t to see Universal CityWalk! I’ve been hearing so many good things about it!
Aubrey says
Wow, I have never been to Orlando and that looks like a ton of fun! I’m definitely going to need to make a trip.
Nina Say says
It looks like you had a blast on your trip! I just yelled at my husband that I was going to start planning a trip to Universal CityWalk! lol The food might be the part I’m most excited about! Thanks for sharing your experience!
Lois Alter Mark says
This makes me want to go back and visit Universal! I love the picture of you with Blue Man!
Local Adventurer says
pat o briens was our go-to place when we visited orlando.. which used to be a lot more when we were living in Atlanta and it was driveable. i had no idea blue man group was out there too! 🙂 we saw the one in vegas and loved it!
celebbabylaundry says
I love walking on the city walk, it’s so beautiful and fun!
Myrabev says
I definitely would love to visit Orlando one day, I need to add to a future bucketlist. The Restaurant sounds and looks awesome and the food delicious, sushi/burger joint that’s a new one for my books
Jenny says
I have not heard of the city walk before!!! I think I could eat myself into a food coma there all the food looks amazing!
Pauline C. says
Universal CityWalk is my favorite destination in Orlando! I can’t wait to go there again this fall! The food there is amazing!
Jenny Temcio says
The city walk looks like so much fun! I love Orlando!
Stacey- Travel Blogger says
That burger looks amazing! I would love to have all of that food lol!
Echo says
CityWalk looks like such a great place! That food looks so delicious and it looks like the entertainment was on point!
Britney says
It’s been a few years since I’ve been there but this makes me want to go back!
HilLesha says
I have never been to Orlando, but it’s definitely on top of my list! It looks and sounds like there are so many wonderful things to do.
Ann BAcciaglia says
I went to Universal Studios a couple years ago and I would love to go back. I want to try the food that you listed in your post! The parmesan fries such really good.
Annie M says
I wish I got to explore the City Walk in LA more. Too much to do & too little time 😛
vidya sudarsan says
Looks like an amazing place! I’m going to show your post to my family.. and see if we can visit Orlando this summer. We have never been to Orlando.
Mama to 5 BLessings says
Wow looks like there is so much to do and many choices to eat at! What a great place to go!
Shauna says
You know… I haven’t been for years but want to go so badly now. So thankful that you shared your fun times.
Chubskulit Rose says
We have been to Orlando but did not visit Universal City Walk. Looks like a place to visit when you want to have a lot of fun.
Lesley says
I haven’t been to the one in Orlando before. Sounds like you had a really nice time.
Vera Sweeney says
I had no idea that there was so much to Universal!! This looks like a blast and would be fun to explore!
Karen says
oooh, all the food looks so good. I could go to Orlando just for a “eating vacation”.
Chrysa says
I really loved eating at The Cowfish. Everything was delicious, but I could totally fill up just on the desserts!
Marcie W. says
Who knew Universal had so much to do without even stepping foot into the actual park? It looks like you could easily spend a day or two perusing the entire CityWalk area and still not see everything.
Sara P. (@SensiblySara) says
Those cheese fries look fantastic, but Cinnamon Sugar Wontons?! That sounds AMAZING!!
Maggie says
I would love just walking around until 2 am and looking at everything! So awesome!
Debra says
I’ve been to Universal City Walk in LA, but not in Orlando. Next time we visit the area, we’ll have to go there – looks like lots of fun and good food!
Trisha says
Since I am sort of a night owl, I love that they are open until 2 am! If I’m ever in Orlando I will have to visit Universal CityWalk!
Stephanie says
Looks like so much fun! We’ll have to check this out! Thanks for sharing.
Carol Cassara says
Yummy food and fun things to do, what is not to like?
Jenn says
Looks like so much fun! WE havent been yet next time we are in the area this is for sure on this list of places to visit!
Pam says
It’s on my list of places to go too! I’ll be checking it out when I’m in the area.
Pam says
Cowfish sounds so amazing! I love the idea of sushi and burgers.
Jennifer H says
We love visiting Universal and CityWalk. Cowfish is the bomb! They service & food is great!
Heather says
Oh that looks like a lot of food, entertainment and good food seems pleasant enough for me!
Tara says
I have yet to go to Florida but when I do plan my trip there I now want to go check out universal Citywalk!!! I love how you photographed all the food and fun through your own perspective! Wonderful post!
Jamie says
Citywalk sounds like so much fun! What is better than great food and shopping? We are going to Orlando next year and plan to stop by Citywalk!
Stephanie Hebert says
I am hoping to book a vacation to Disney soon so this will be a great addition to our trip for the adults to have some fun too! Love the ideas!
Sharon Rooney says
I have not been to Universal CityWalk Orlando. It looks like a great place to see and the food look amazing, so many choices.
Wendy says
Oh I LOVE THAT PLACE! We went for the first time last year and it was out favorite place! So much fun stuff to do!
Terri Ramsey Beavers says
Oh goodness, all of that food sounds and looks amazing. The entertainment looks like it’s rocking too. What a fun place, I have some great childhood memories centered around Orlando and other areas around there.
Dominique Goh says
I haven’t been to Orlando before but Citywalk looks like a great place to stay with all the food and entertainment nearby.
Katie says
I haven’t been to the Universal City Walk in Orlando, but I have been to the one in the LA area. I must say, Cowfish has me drooling!
Lorane says
Great looking Food! I’ve been seeing a lot of Tasty looking Burgers on here. The entire experience looks amazing
Cara (@StylishGeek) says
I have been there and I absolutely enjoyed it! It was for a business meeting though, so next time I go there it has to be with my family! 🙂
Lesley says
I’ve been to the city walk in Hollywood (Universal Studios) and it was pretty good back in the day. It’s been many, many, many years since I’ve been though. Orlando is on my bucket list of places to go with the kids soon.
agatapokutycka says
I hope I will get to visit it one day.
Alissa Apel says
I’d love to see The Blue Man Group. That area looks like it has just about everything to eat.
Christie says
I’ve been DYING to try Cowfish! I’ve heard the burger sushi fusion food is amazing. Your pics look yummy
Rachee says
The food! Oh my word! It looks so good. I am adding this to my list of places to visit.
Ty says
I’ve never been to Florida but I’ve always wanted to go! The food looks amazing and it looks like the perfect place to unwind for the weekend!
lisa says
We go to Orlando this summer so I will have to check out these places at Universal!!
becca says
We love CityWalk. We spend a lot time there when we drive down to Orlando.
Amy Desrosiers says
Wow, this looks like you had such a fun time! I have never been to Florida, but when I do this will be my first stop!
Julie says
I didn’t know how much stuff there was in Orlando! Looking forward to taking a trip there.
Jeanine says
This is one place I have heard lots about and would love to check out one day! Must get to Orlando!
Jeff Taylor says
This sounds like a great side vacation for adults! Thanks for the great review and pictures!
Scott says
We love the Blue Man Group! Need to make sure we go visit them in Florida next time we’re down there!
Stephanie Reed says
Cowfish is really making some inroads into fusion cuisine with Burgushi! There’s no way I’d be able to stroll around to see what else is available after a big meal, though. 🙂
Debbie Denny says
I really need to go back and see all these spots. Been a while.
Alena Belleque says
I’ve never been to Orlando (or Florida, for that matter), and your posts are making me want to change that in a hurry. What fun!!
Terry says
I will be going here for sure. If not in April, then next year. I will be in Florida for 2, maybe 3 months.
Jamie H says
I didn’t realize there was so much for adults to do at Universal! I’d love to visit sometime!
Meagan says
I had no idea Orlando was so much fun! I’d be in heaven with all of those restaurants!
Shop with Me Mama (Kim) says
We love this place! So many fun things to do!! That blue guy still scares me though, LOL.
Amber Nelson says
How fun. I have never been to Orlando, but it is on my list!
harriet says
I go there all of the time when I am in Orlando. It is fun 🙂
Jessica Harlow says
This is definitely our our family bucket list! It looks like so much fun! The food looks amazing and I love that they are open until 2am for night walkers! 🙂
Joseph says
City Walk is a great place to take the family. All year round this is a great place to visit.
Jenn says
Orlando isn’t just for kids any more! I didn’t realize there was so much fun things to do and see for ADULTS!! I really want to see the blue man group too!
Stefani Tolson says
I have been to Florida twice but haven’t seen the Citywalk yet. I want to take a family trip to Florida so the kids can see the state!
[email protected] says
Oh Liz! This looks like SO much fun!! And what beautiful, delicious food! Thanks for sharing all the great tips!
Maggie C says
I haven’t been to CityWalk since the last time I was at Universal was when it was still being constructed. However, it sounds like a great place to enjoy a night out.
Patty says
Sounds like you have everything you need for a fun vacation in one spot. The Cowfish sounds like a fun restaurant. Now I want a burger and sushi!
Amber Edwards says
Oh goodness, there is so much to do at Universal CityWalk Orlando! I’d need to schedule a full 2 weeks to get everything done. Not to mention all the fine dining. Oh how I love trying new restaurants and foods!
Melanie says
I have never been to Universal CityWalk Orlando, but I can safely say that it is now on my bucket list. That Texas Longhorn Burger from The Cowfish looks delicious. What a neat concept for a restaurant!
Ladena says
Universal CityWalk looks so cool! Look at all the food options! We hope to go to Orlando soon, I’ll have to stop at Universal CityWalk for sure.
Brittany @ Clumps of Mascara says
Wow so many things to do at City Walk! I’ve never been there but have always wanted to go and I love posts that have helpful information for planning a trip! Thank you!
Catherine S says
City walk is a great place to go hang out with friends and family. We really enjoy going to the Hollywood Drive-In golf. All the food looks really yummy.
Alison says
We’ve never been to Orlando, but we’re planning a trip next year – this looks like something I can’t wait to do!!
Willow says
I have only been to Florida once, for a blogging conference, so I didn’t leave the hotel much. That food looks AMAZING!
Penny Struebig says
Great review! I have a friend who is taking her daughters there on Spring break. I’m forwarding her your link so she can see this.
Lindsey Silvestrini says
This looks like an incredible place to visit. I’m going to add it to my bucket list!
Stacie @ Divine Lifestyle says
The last time I was there was about seven years ago. It was great then, but I REALLY want to see what’s new now.
Jennifer says
That looks AWESOME! Universal knows how to make any and everything exciting.
Michelle F. says
The pictures show you had an amazing experience. I went so many years ago and had a lot of fun.
Jeannette says
It looks like there is tons to do there! We are headed to Orlando next week and we’ll definitely have to check it out!
Katriza says
Wow this looks like a great place to go for a fun vacation! Thanks for sharing!
Dawn says
I haven’t been to Universal in so long. I’d love to get back there and see all the amazing changes!
{Erica}EverythingMomandBaby says
Looks like so much fun!!!
Scarlet says
Ahh! You got to see the Blue Man Group! How cool! I love all your photos and I can see there is tons to do there!
Demetra says
You had me at fried pickles, parmesan truffle fries and edamame! I’ll be sure to check out Cowfish the next time we’re in Orlando.
AJ @ NutriFitMama says
I have been to the Universal City Walk in California but not in Florida. It looks like a fun time!
Jennifer at Making Our Life Matter says
I really want to get to Florida! Universal is at the top of our list, and now that I see all these cool road trips, I really want to get there. Thanks for the great suggestions!
Saidah @ ApronsAndStilletos.com says
We’re going to Universal this summer and I can’t wait. We’ve never really done much at City Walk when the kids were smaller but might check it out now that they are older.
Sue says
Looks so cool – that burger sushi bar looks really awesome
and that dueling piano club would be so much fun! I want to go 🙂
Christine Luken says
Wow, that looks like the place to go for great food and entertainment! Hubby and I have always wanted to see a Blue Man Group show.
Maureen @ A Debt Free Stress Free Life says
Looks like you had a great time! Love all there is to do.
Robin (Masshole Mommy) says
That was my first time at CityWalk and I want to go back so I can eat at more of the restaurants there. It was so much fun to hang out there.
Rebecca Swenor says
Universal CityWalk seems like it is the place to be indeed and have something for everyone. I love the Blue Man Group and I am jealous for sure. It looks totally amazing at night there. Thanks so much for sharing.
Angelic Sinova says
I really like Universal CityWalk. I was just there in December when I was visiting for Christmas and New Year. It’s so lively and there’s always something new to see and do. I absolutely LOVE the Blue Man Group (although I’ve only seen them here in Chicago!) <3
Robin (Masshole Mommy) says
I’ve seen the BMG in Boston 4 or 5 times over the years & I would love to see the one in Orlando to see if it’s any different.
XmasDolly says
I’m so happy to hear th dueling pianos is still there. We went there on our Honeymoon in 1999. That was the year that The Islands of Adventure first opened. It was fantastic. Then we went back a couple more times after that, but the dueling pianos was the best place ever to mingle and have the best entertainment ever. My husband even got up and sang… of course he had a lot of that green beer in him too. bwahahahaha It is a great place to go and have great fun. Thanks for refreshing my memory on great memories we made there.
Candy O says
Wow what a wonderful time you must have had! Definitely things I’ve never seen at City Walk! I need to go back and enjoy it with my honey.
Stacie @ Divine Lifestyle says
I haven’t been to Universal in forever. I want to get back in the worst way!
Tough Cookie Mommy says
This is such a fun destination. I love all of the venues and the fun activities.