Electric vehicles are becoming more popular everyday. So what do you do if you drive an electric vehicle and you’re heading to Universal Orlando? Parking and charging stations for electric vehicles are available throughout Universal Orlando, and here’s what you need to know.
Electric vehicles at Universal Orlando theme parks, CityWalk, and Volcano Bay
There are charging stations for electric vehicles in the main parking area if you are visiting Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure, Universal’s Volcano Bay, or CityWalk. However, there are only four stations total — two for Teslas and two for other manufacturers — and they are located at Valet Parking.
There is no charge to use the charging stations; however, you will need to pay for Valet Parking in order to access them. It is customary to provide gratuity to the attendants who assist with parking your car.
The cost for Valet Parking at Universal Orlando is determined by when and how long you park your car:
Before 6 pm
$27.00 for 2 hours
$75.00 for over 2 hours
After 6 pm
$27.00 for 2 hours
$40.00 for over 2 hours
For Preferred Annual Passholders
50% off Valet* (after first visit; subject to availability)
For Premier Annual Passholders
Free* (Subject to availability)
Premier Annual Passholders must pick their vehicle up before 7:00 PM each night Halloween Horror Nights is held. If you fail to pick up your vehicle by that time, you will be charged $45 for valet parking.
When pulling into the Valet Parking area, you will need to let the attendants know that you wish to use the charging stations. There is an acknowledgement form for you to sign, indicating that you understand your vehicle will be moved once it is charged.
Electric vehicles at Universal Orlando hotels
In addition to the four stations in the primary garage, there are electric vehicle charging stations at each of the hotels. Each hotel has at least two charging stations in their parking areas.
Similar to the theme parks, there is no additional charge to use these charging stations. However, regular parking charges apply. Each hotel has a parking area, and this is where you will find the charging stations. Listed for you later is a comprehensive list of hotel-specific charging station locations.
Some hotels, like Loews Sapphire Falls Resort, have Tesla stations that are only accessible by using Valet Parking. Officially speaking, there is a two-hour limit on the charging stations at each hotel. However, there isn’t any indication that this is strictly enforced. Just be aware of this policy and considerate of others who may need access to the same service.
Charging station locations at each hotel
Endless Summer Resort – First floor of the parking garage; four charging stations; free for guests with parking; guests only
Universal’s Aventura Hotel – Second floor of the parking garage (by the elevators); four charging stations; $14/day for guests, off-site visitors $10 for under 30 minutes, $45 after 30 minutes
Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort – Charging stations located on each floor (two Tesla chargers and one Clipper Creek); free for guests with parking
Loews Sapphire Falls Resort – Located in valet parking; can request to self-park, but still requires leaving key with valet; six charging stations; $32 per day to valet park at hotel
Loews Royal Pacific Resort – Located in valet parking; six charging stations; $29 per day to valet park at hotel
Hard Rock Hotel – Located in valet parking; six charging stations; $42 per day to valet park at hotel; guests only
Loews Portofino Bay Hotel – Located in parking garage and in valet; six charging stations total (three on level 2 of the garage, 3 in bottom sub-level); free for guests with parking
Additional information about electric vehicles at Universal Orlando
- Always ask the Front Desk for assistance if needed.
- It is nice to be mindful of moving your vehicle to a regular parking spot once it is fully charged.
- Usually there are a few stations available, but it can get very busy on peak days or during busy seasons.
- You can find locations of chargers, along with reviews, throughout Orlando at PlugShare and Drive Electric Orlando.
Electric vehicle charging stations near Universal Orlando
- Orlando International Drive Premium Outlets – 4951 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819
- Wawa – Tesla Supercharger – 6500 West Sand Lake Road, Orlando, FL 32819
- Rialto Shopping Center – 7335 W. Sand Lake Road, Orlando, FL 32819
- Pointe Orlando – 9101 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819
- A number of hotels near Universal Orlando have chargers as well. Be sure to ask before booking.
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