Unlocking Universal - Your Key to Universal Orlando
Join Holli, a longtime Universal enthusiast and dedicated travel professional, as she takes you on an exciting journey through the magic of Universal Orlando. In each episode, you’ll discover the latest news, practical tips, and hidden gems that will elevate your next visit.If you’re a seasoned park-goer or just starting to explore the wonders of Universal, Holli’s insights and insider knowledge will empower you to plan an unforgettable adventure.From in-depth reviews and expert advice to answering your most-asked questions, Holli is here to ensure you have everything you need to unlock a seamless experience.With her passion for the parks and lively conversations with other destination specialists, you’ll gain fresh perspectives that celebrate the joy of Universal Orlando and beyond.So, whether you’re an Annual Pass holder or Universal-curious, hit subscribe and join Holli as she sets you up right to make memories you’ll cherish forever!
Episodes
32 episodes
32. Top 10 Holiday Offerings at Universal Orlando (2025 Guide to Parade, Grinchmas, Wizarding World & More)
It’s the most festive time of year at Universal Orlando, and in Part One of this two-episode holiday special, I’m sharing the Top 10 holiday offerings included with your park ticket. From the Macy’s parade and the Who-liday Spectacular...
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Season 1
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Episode 32
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13:59
31. Epic Universe at Six Months: What’s Changed, What’s Next & What You Need to Know | Universal Orlando
Epic Universe is officially six months old — and ohhh, do we have a LOT to talk about.In this episode, I’m breaking down what I thought Epic Universe was going to be, what it actually turned out to be, the surpri...
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Season 1
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Episode 31
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21:21
30. Your Universal Questions: Linking Tickets, Express Passes, and Getting to Volcano Bay
Have you tried linking your Universal Orlando package or tickets early and got that mysterious “nothing happens” moment? You’re not alone. In this episode of Unlocking Universal, Holli breaks down what’s really going on behind that app...
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Season 1
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Episode 30
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12:34
29. Why Your Old Universal Ticket Strategy Won’t Work in 2026 | Universal Orlando
2026 brings a brand-new ticket structure to Universal Orlando Resort — and the strategy that worked before won’t cut it anymore. In this episode, Holli breaks down everything that’s changing and what it means for your next vacation: from the ad...
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Season 1
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Episode 29
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10:27
28. Smart Strategies: 5 Ways to Save Money on Your Universal Orlando Vacation
Think waiting for a discount is the best way to save money at Universal Orlando? Think again. In this episode, Holli turns the key on the real strategies that keep more dollars in your pocket — without cutting corners on the fun.
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Season 1
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Episode 28
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15:38
27. Halloween Horror Nights 2025 Hype Sheet, Part 2: Jason, Terrifier, ScareZones, Shows & More | Universal Orlando
The fog hasn’t lifted yet… it’s time for Part 2 of my HHN 2025 Hype Sheet! Brian’s back with me as co-host, and we’re picking up exactly where we left off—with my epic Jason Voorhees soapbox. 🔪From there, we charge into my top hype cate...
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Season 1
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Episode 27
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27:54
26. HHN 2025 Hype Sheet, Part 1: Last Call, Half-in-the-Coffin & Potential Killers | Universal Orlando
It’s HHN Hype Time! The fog is rolling in, and this year I’m not braving it alone—my husband Brian is joining me as co-host for this special 2-part hype episode. Together, we’re breaking down the HHN 2025 Hype Sheet.Forget the tired 1–10...
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Season 1
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Episode 26
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33:09
18. Unlocking Express: Your Key to Shorter Lines at Universal Orlando
*UPDATE* As of August 22, 2025, Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry and Mine-Cart Madness are participating attractions for the Universal Express Pass at Epic! 🥳Ever stared at a list of Universal Orlando Express Pas...
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Season 1
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Episode 18
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11:07
25. Refillable Cups: A Complete Guide to Freestyle, Hotel Mugs & Souvenir Sippers | Universal Orlando
Confused about Universal Orlando’s refillable cups? You’re not alone! Between Coca-Cola Freestyle® cups, hotel refill mugs, and souvenir sippers, it’s easy to get turned around on what works where.In this episode of Unlocking Univers...
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Season 1
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Episode 25
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14:09
24.Your Epic Questions Answered, Volume 3: Rest Days, Refillables & First-Timer Strategy
What do you get when you mix spring break ticket strategy, a slightly mysterious refillable cup, and a first-timer heading into Epic Universe without Early Park Admission?You get this episode of Unlocking Un...
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Season 1
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Episode 24
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15:49
23. Behind the Screams: HHN’s Best Bonus Experiences | Universal Orlando 2025
The haunted houses may be the main event at Halloween Horror Nights, but the bonus experiences are where the real horror nerds thrive—and today, I’m breaking them all down.In this episode, I dive into:Unmasking the H...
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Season 1
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Episode 23
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14:27
22. Universal Orlando Transportation Guide: Airport Transfers, Shuttles & More
Planning how to get from the airport to your Universal Orlando hotel—and maybe over to Disney or Port Canaveral too? From airport confusion to rideshare sticker shock to missed shuttle pickups, things can go sideways fast if you’re not pr...
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Season 1
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Episode 22
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15:39
21. HHN 2025: Frequent Fear & Scream Early: Maximize Halloween Horror Nights | Universal Orlando
Planning more than one night at Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights? This episode is for you.I’m breaking down the multi-night ticket options—commonly referred to as Frequent Fear Passes—and how each one works, plus who gets the ...
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Season 1
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Episode 21
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12:55
20. Your Epic Questions Answered – Volume 2: Lockers, Bathrooms, Accessibility & More | Universal Orlando
From sprained ankles to sneaky bathroom tips—I'm tackling another round of listener questions about Universal Orlando’s new Epic Universe!Have you ever wondered what the difference is between facial recognition and photo validatio...
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Season 1
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Episode 20
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9:40
19. HHN 2025: What You Really Need to Know About Single Night Tickets & Express | Universal Orlando Halloween Horror Nights
Halloween Horror Nights might sound like it’s only for the horror fanatics… but what if I told you there’s more to it than just jump scares?Whether you're fog-curious, a little hesitant, or already dusting off your scream squad shirt, th...
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Season 1
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Episode 19
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8:19
17. Your Epic Universal Questions Answered - Volume 1 | Universal Orlando
*UPDATE* As of August 22, 2025, Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry and Mine-Cart Madness are participating attractions for the Universal Express Pass at Epic! 🥳New Park. New Questions. From Express Pass ...
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Season 1
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Episode 17
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19:16
16. Beyond the Thrills: Unlocking Universal Orlando for the Chill-Seekers
Think Universal Orlando is just for coaster fanatics and thrill junkies? Think again. In this episode, Holli is unlocking the slower, softer, still-magical side of Universal—designed for those who’d rather wave a wand than white-knuckl...
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Season 1
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Episode 16
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14:24
15. Unlocking Epic Universe: My First Visit - Celestial Park, Dark Universe & What I Didn’t Expect |Universal Orlando
🎆Get a No-Obligation Quote HERE!My Epic Universe plans didn’t exactly go as expected—and that turned out to be ...
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Season 1
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Episode 15
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9:04
14. Planning 101: How Many Days Do You Need for Universal Orlando Now with Epic?
Four parks. Almost a dozen hotels. Endless opinions on Facebook.Now that Epic Universe is joining the party, the answer to the big planning question has changed: How many days do you actually need to experience Universal Orlando?
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17:27
13. Epic By the Numbers | Universal Orlando's Biggest Leap Yet!
How big is Epic Universe? Big enough to need new roads, new hotels, and a whole new way of thinking about theme parks. In this episode, we’re breaking it all down—from acreage to animatronics, portals to power grids—with the jaw-droppi...
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Season 1
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Episode 13
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8:41
12. Universal Orlando for the Senses: Unlocking the Magic of Immersion
What is it that makes Universal Orlando so unforgettable?It’s not just the thrill rides or epic IPs—it’s how the parks feel. In this episode, we're diving into the sights, sounds, scents, tastes, and tactile touches that turn a ...
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16:53
11. Don't Let These 3 Myths Sabotage Your Dream Trip | Universal Orlando
In this episode of Unlocking Universal, Holli dives into three significant myths that might be ruining your Universal Orlando vacation plans. Discover why the traditional 'slow season' no longer exists and how year-round promotions and changing...
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Season 1
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Episode 11
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16:46
10. Single-Day Epic Universe Tickets Are Here—What You Need to Know
Epic Universe is opening in just 70 days—and now, single-day tickets are available for everyone! But before you hit that “buy now” button, let’s talk strategy. In this episode, I’ll break down why booking a package is still the smartest move (h...
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Season 1
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Episode 10
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11:17
9. Butterbeer Season Returns; More Powerful Wands, and Epic Universe Myths Busted
Not everything is as it seems... Magic is evolving, monsters are stirring, and some of the biggest stories about Universal’s next chapter? They’re just plain wrong.In this episode, we’re diving into Butterbeer Season at Universal Orlando—celebrati...
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Season 1
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Episode 10
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30:22
8. More New Fun Coming in 2025 as Volcano Bay Nights & Horror Unleashed Opening Date Announced | Universal Orlando and Las Vegas
🌊 Volcano Bay After Dark & Universal Horror Unleashed Opening Date! 🌙Universal Orlando just announced something brand new—a limited-capacity, separately ticketed nighttime event at Volcano Bay! 🌋✨ For the first time ever, guests can experience thi...
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Season 1
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Episode 8
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18:57
