Universal Travel Agent Des Moines, IA
A Des Moines, IA, Universal travel agent can take care of your vacation's bookings and logistics so that you can enjoy the experience stress-free. They help your Universal Orlando Resort trip be the best it can be.
At Me and The Mouse Travel, we specialize in helping people plan meaningful vacations in a practical way. Our Universal experts make the process easier by getting ahead of problems and being there to support you when things go wrong.
Learn More About:
- The ways a travel planner can make the process go smoother
- Types of people who can benefit from expert vacation planning services
- The different theme parks at Universal, and their highlights
- The attractions you won't want to miss
- Length-of-stay advice to help you get the most from your trip
- Pro tips to help you have a good time
- Advantages and events for going on a Universal vacation in different seasons
- Answers to Des Moines Universal Travel FAQs
We treat your vacation planning as if it were our own. Your Des Moines, IA, Universal travel agent can help you make decisions about when to go and what to do when you're there. No matter where you are in the process, you can reach us at 1-855-764-2539, tell us about your trip online, or get a free quote to develop your trip plan.
How Your Des Moines, IA, Universal Travel Agent Can Enhance Your Trip
For any traveler, a Universal travel agent in Des Moines, IA, can keep you on track. For any trip, they can:
- Design a vacation that includes activities that are good fits for you
- Work with your budget to maximize savings through bundles, and avoid surprise fees
- Provide backup if something goes wrong, and you need to make adjustments
- Help you get a big-picture view of what your vacation will look like
- Save you time and energy from the planning process so that you can focus on other parts of your life beforehand, and the fun while you're there
Beyond general support, an expert Des Moines, IA, Universal travel agent can:
- Keep you informed of seasonal events that would appeal to you
- Help you decide on what activities are most important for you to experience
- Ensure you're prepared with essentials like the Universal Orlando Resort App
- Help you decide on any other attractions you'd like to visit in Orlando
Additionally, for Universal trips, Me and The Mouse travel planners don't charge any fees. Our agents are compensated by Universal, and your trip planner will respect your budget when putting together a vacation plan.
Your trip should reflect your interests, and you deserve a plan that goes beyond cookie-cutter vacations. Your Des Moines, IA, Universal travel agent is there to share expert insights.
Who Works With a Universal Travel Agent in Des Moines, IA?
Almost anyone can have fun at a trip to the Universal Orlando Resort, but it's not always clear how to make the best plan for your group. Asking a travel agent for help can make the process easier.
- Busy people who want to go on vacation can get help planning it out.
- Novice travelers can stop themselves from making mistakes and discover things to do that aren't as well known.
- Multi-generational travel groups often benefit by finding activities that appeal to everyone, and/or effective ways to divide their time.
- Multi-destination travelers who are trying to fit Universal as a smaller experience.
When you call Me and The Mouse Travel, you get help creating a vacation that works for you, regardless of who you are.
Universal Orlando's Theme Parks
You can't go wrong with any of the Universal Orlando Resort theme parks: Epic Universe, Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay. You can plan a trip just around any one of these parks, or you can set up a bigger, do-it-all adventure.
Epic Universe
Opening in May 2025, Epic Universe is Universal Orlando's newest theme park. It combines a variety of fictional worlds centered around the Celestial Park. Within that hub, you can find food, rides, and a convenient location to stay in the Universal Helios Grand Hotel.
Within the Epic Universe park, you can visit:
- The Ministry of Magic – Experience multiple eras from the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
- Dark Universe – Get transported back to the Golden Age of Hollywood to see monsters from decades past.
- Isle of Berk – See original shows and experience the world of How to Train Your Dragon.
- Super Nintendo World – Power up your visit as you meet classic Mario characters.
Universal Studios Florida
Universal Studios Florida was the first theme park built in the Universal Orlando Resort, and has grown and developed over the years. You can visit DreamWorks Land to explore timeless animation classics and go for high-speed chases with from the Fast and the Furious.
When you're done with those, you can see the intersection between film and the world around us in the World Expo, or race through New York with Jimmy Fallon. You can find attractions and rides all across Universal Studios Florida, with something that's right for everyone.
Islands of Adventure
For an excitement-filled outing, be sure to visit the Islands of Adventure. Go on rides based on franchises like Marvel, Jurassic Park, and King Kong. These high-speed adventures will have your heart racing as you run from dinosaurs and soar with superheroes. Once again, you can visit the Wizarding World and take a ride on the Hogwarts Express.
If you need a break from the adrenaline, Toon Lagoon and Seuss Landing give you space to breathe and relax. Some calmer rides in these spots present a welcoming atmosphere to all kinds of guests.
Volcano Bay
Volcano Bay gives you a chance to either relax or dive into the action. You can visit the beach, go for a light swim, or just lay back on the sand for a while. But when you've gotten an itch for adventure again, there are plenty of rides available to you.
Some of the most well-known attractions here are:
- Waturi Beach
- Kopiko Wai Winding River
- Puihi of the Maku Puihi Round Raft Rides
- Kala & Tai Nui Serpentine Body Slides
- TeAwa The Fearless River
Attractions at Universal You Won't Want to Miss
When you sit down to plan your trip to the Universal Orlando Resort, it can be hard to pick out which attractions are the best. While your Des Moines, IA, Universal travel agent can help you pick out the ones that are the best fit for you, here are some of the most popular ones:
Hogwarts Express
Hogwarts Express is a joy for everyone who rides it. Because it connects Diagon Alley to Hogsmeade, you can travel between the Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida parks. And along the ride, you'll get to see Harry and his friends.
The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man
The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man gives you a chance to be news reporters in a fantastic version of New York City.. It features 3-D action that is sure to capture the hearts of any Marvel fans in your group. You'll face off against a gallery of classic villians in this award-winning ride for the ages.
Krakatau Aqua Coaster
Karakatau Aqua Coaster is one of Volcano Bay's most exhilarating rides. On it, groups of up to four will get to ride canoes through the Volcano itself. It's hard to find another water ride that will top this one at Universal. This one will be a hit for any thrill-seekers in your group!
Hiccup's Wing Gliders
Hiccup's Wing Gliders is a must-ride for any How to Train Your Dragon fans. Your family will get to see Hiccup and Toothless, experience high-speed flight through the skies, and see the Isle of Berk from the air. The smooth and gradual pace makes this one a hit even with people who ordinarily don't enjoy roller coasters.
Revenge of the Mummy: The Ride
Revenge of the Mummy combines the horror and comedy of the 1999 film. With speeds of up to 40 miles per hour and terrors from ancient Egypt, prepare yourself for an intense adventure. For adults ready to face off against Imhotep, experience one of the most well-regarded indoor roller coasters on Earth.
How Long Should You Stay at Universal?
The answer varies from group to group. Some people want to see everything and need a longer trip, while others are happy to focus on just one park for a day. When you work with a Universal travel agent in Des Moines, IA, you'll get a plan that balances your energy and interests.
Your trip could look like one of the examples below, or something else entirely:
- 1-2 Days: See all that one park has to offer, or split your time and see the best of a couple parks
- 4-5 Days: See all of the parks back-to-back
- 6-7 Days: Take some time to explore other parts of the city in addition to Universal
Pro Tip: Consider staying at one of the on-site hotels. These can save you travel time and gas, letting you focus on the theme park experience. If your group has children, it also gives a convenient home base for some much-needed breathing room.
6 Des Moines, IA, Universal Travel Agent Tips for a Memorable Trip
Even with your Des Moines, IA, Universal travel agent helping you out, there are lots of things to keep in mind when preparing for a visit. Here are six pieces of advice to help you have the best trip possible:
- Contact an Agent Early – To maximize your chances of getting a good promotion, reach out to a travel planner at least 6 months before your trip.
- Double-Check Your ID – Don't try to get onto a flight without a REAL-ID-compliant ID or other accepted ID form.
- Bring a Water Bottle – Especially for summer trips, you'll need to stay hydrated. The good news is that Universal provides free refills for waterbottles.
- Plan Ahead and Arrive Early – If you want to beat the crowds, you'll need to decide which attractions are the most important to you and be at the gate before opening time.
- Consider an Express Pass – An Express Pass is a popular option to reduce your time in lines and give you more time on the rides.
- Look Into On-Site Hotels – Many people don't consider staying on-site, but doing so keeps you closer to the park, gives you more time on rides, and saves you from spending on car rentals and parking.
When Should You Visit Universal?
You don't have to plan your trip for the summer! In fact, there are lots of benefits to planning your trip for another time of the year. Below, we've outlined some of benefits for visiting Universal in each season, and the types of events you can look forward to.
| Season | Benefits | Events |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Smaller crowds and great promotions. | The Universal Orlando Mardi Gras is a festival with fun for all. |
| Summer | Groups with children can take advantage of summer break. | See character parades during the day and firework shows at night. |
| Fall | Milder temperatures and more manageable crowds. | The Halloween Horror Nights are sure to enthrall any horror fans in your group. |
| Winter | Shortest wait times for attractions and comfortable weather. | Grinchmas and the Holiday Parade highlight a series of seasonal events. |
The theme parks are always changing at Universal, and your travel agent is the best person to help you pick the right time to go.
Des Moines, IA, Universal Travel Agent FAQs
Is Universal a good option for a day trip?
Yes! A day trip to Universal can be a very enjoyable time. The caveat is that you won't be able to visit all of the parks, and will have to choose which attractions are most important to you.
Are travel agents expensive?
Me and the Mouse Travel offers its Universal Orlando travel planning services for free. Our agents are paid directly from Universal for helping customers book their trips, so you don't have to worry about trip advisor costs.
Is it better to stay at Universal or off-site?
Staying on-site at Universal offers many advantages:
- Free parking
- Reduced travel time
- Get into the parks early
- You could get a discount on park passes
When is the cheapest time of year for a Universal vacation?
Early fall and late winter are good options to plan a more affordable Universal trip, as long as you avoid holidays like Halloween and Christmas.
What day of the week is the slowest at Universal?
Tuesdays and Wednesdays tend to be the slowest, with fewer people wanting to visit in the middle of the week. The most crowded times to go, in contrast, are Fridays and Weekends.
Can I realistically visit Disney World and Universal Orlando on the same vacation?
You can! But it will take some additional planning. To ensure that you're prepared for both resorts, you'll need a Universal travel agent in Des Moines, IA, that is also a Disney World trip planner.
Is Universal worth it for people who aren't fans of roller coasters?
Yes! You can find many things to do at Universal that don't include roller coasters. There are lots of atmospheric areas, character encounters, and shows that are available to you, as well as the beach at Volcano Bay.
Start Booking Your Trip With Your Des Moines, IA, Universal Travel Agent Today
Your Des Moines, IA, Universal travel agent is someone who can help you design the perfect trip for you. And once the trip is underway, they should still be able to provide support if you need to make any changes.
For customized travel plans in Des Moines, call Me and The Mouse Travel. We will treat your vacation as if it were our own. In addition to Universal Orlando, we also offer blanket vacation planning services.
Work with a Universal travel agent in Des Moines, IA, today by calling us at 1-855-764-2539, requesting a free quote, or using our online contact form.