Universal Travel Agent Des Moines, IA
A Des Moines, IA, Universal travel agent is your vacation planning partner, solving problems and giving you time back. They help your Universal Orlando Resort trip be the best it can be.
At Me and The Mouse Travel, our goal is to help you plan meaningful vacations in a practical way. Our trip planning experts help things go smooth by stopping problems before they arise and being there to support you when things go wrong.
Learn More About:
- How a travel agent improves your trip
- Examples of who can benefit from professional vacation planning services
- The different theme parks you can explore at Universal
- The top things to do at the resort
- Benefits of different length-of-stay options
- Expert advice to help you have a good time
- The value of going on a Universal vacation in different seasons
- Answers to Des Moines Universal Travel FAQs
You can get started planning your trip right now. Your Des Moines, IA, Universal travel agent can help you make decisions about when to go and what to do when you're there. Whatever trip planning support you need, you can talk to one of our team members at 1-855-764-2539, send us a note online, or request a free travel quote to develop your trip plan.
How Your Des Moines, IA, Universal Travel Agent Can Enhance Your Trip
Whevever you are in the planning process, a Universal travel agent in Des Moines, IA, can keep you on track. Wherever you're going, they can:
- Create a personalized trip plan to fit your needs and interests
- Work with your budget to maximize savings through bundles, and avoid surprise fees
- Act as a lifeline when things go awry, and you need to change plans
- Stop you from overcommitting or losing track of the bigger picture
- Anticipate roadblocks before they happen, and stop them from throwing your plans off course
On top of that, for the Universal Orlando Resort in particular, your agent can:
- Update you on any new additions to the park
- Help you decide on what activities are most important for you to experience
- Ensure you're prepared with specialized tools like the Universal Orlando Resort App
- Highlight other parts of Orlando that might appeal to you while you're there
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 something built just for you. Your Des Moines, IA, Universal travel agent can give you a personalized trip.
What Types of People Benefit From Working With a Universal Travel Agent in Des Moines, IA?
There's plenty of fun things to do at the Universal Orlando Resort, but it's not always clear how to make the best plan for your group. For many people, getting expert advice can enhance their travel experience.
- Large families who have a lot to coordinate can offload that work to an agent.
- New travelers can get tips to avoid common pitfalls and learn about less-well-known activities which they'd really enjoy.
- Mixed age groups can get help picking a mix of attractions that are fun for everyone and give space to individuals.
- Multi-destination travelers who want to incorporate Universal into a larger trip and want to make the most of their time.
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. Each of these parks can offer a full experience on its own, or you can combine everything into one mega-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 access to the Universal Helios Grand Hotel if you're staying on site.
There are four main areas you can visit in Epic Universe:
- The Ministry of Magic – Be there for the history of Harry Potter's Wizarding World.
- Dark Universe – Seek out countless thrills that harken back to the Golden Age of Hollywood.
- Isle of Berk – See original shows and experience the world of How to Train Your Dragon.
- Super Nintendo World – Travel to lands based on the beloved characters Mario and Donkey Kong.
Universal Studios Florida
Universal Studios Florida is the original theme park in the Universal Orlando Resort, and combines stars from the screen with locations from across the world. You can see Springfield U.S.A. of Simpsons fame and return to Harry Potter's world in Diagon Alley.
When you're done with those, you can escape from aliens at 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. Additionally, you get another chance to experience magic as you use your wand to cast spells in Hogsmeade.
On top of live-action film franchises, you can visit timeless cartoon worlds in Seuss Landing and Toon Lagoon. Featuring classic franchises like Popeye and the Cat in the Hat, people of all ages will find something to enjoy.
Volcano Bay
Volcano Bay is a water park available in the Universal Orlando Resort. There's plenty of space to set up an umbrella on the beach and just enjoy the view of the lagoon. But when you want to chase thrills again, you can check out some of the most thrilling rides in the whole resort.
Some of the most well-known attractions here are:
- Waturi Beach
- Tot Tiki Reef
- 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
Deciding you want to go to Universal Orlando is easy. Deciding what your must-see attractions are can be hard. It's hard to go wrong with any ride, but your Des Moines, IA, Universal travel agent can help you determine what will work best for your group. Below are some options that are particularly popular:
Hogwarts Express
Hogwarts Express does more than just transport you to the wizarding world. Because it connects Diagon Alley to Hogsmeade, you can travel between the Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida parks. This gives you a chance to experience parts of Harry Potter's adventure firsthand and gives you easy access to features for all ages.
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. Guided by Spider-Man, you'll face off against the Sinister Syndicate in this award-winning ride for the ages.
Krakatau Aqua Coaster
Karakatau Aqua Coaster is one of Volcano Bay's most exhilarating rides, giving you a look at the volcano's inner workings. There are twists and turns throughout, and a thrilling finale to finish things off. Remember to pack goggles and wear your swimsuit!
Hiccup's Wing Gliders
Hiccup's Wing Gliders let's you experience an all-new machine from Hiccup's workshop. Your family will get to meet favorite characters, soar with dragons, 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 is a sequel to a the classic movie franchise. 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, go for a ride on one of the most well-regarded indoor roller coasters on Earth.
How Long Should You Stay at Universal?
The amount of time you spend in Universal should be tailored to fit your group. Be sure to include enough time to see all the attractions you want to, and also some breathing room. To make a plan that fits your needs, your Des Moines, IA, Universal travel agent will get to know you and your interests.
Here's a breakdown of some possible timelines:
- 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 a leisurely pace for your vacation and enjoy some downtime
Pro Tip: Look at the on-site hotels for a place to stay. You can get more time to explore the parks by cutting down on transportation. If you have kids, or just want a space to recover, a room on-site is invaluable.
6 Des Moines, IA, Universal Travel Agent Tips for a Memorable Trip
Your Des Moines, IA, Universal travel agent will help you with the planning details, but there at the end of the day there are some things only you can control. Here are six of our best tips to give you a smooth trip:
- Get Started Early – In order to get the best deals, start working with your travel planner early, at least 6 months before you're planning to go.
- Double-Check Your ID – Don't try to get onto a flight without a REAL-ID-compliant ID or other accepted ID form.
- Pack a Refillable Water Bottle – Don't let heatstroke ruin your vacation! Keep a water bottle nearby to stay hydrated, and take advantage of the free refill stations.
- Get to the Park Before Opening Time – 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 can help you shorten your wait times and focus on the fun.
- Look Into On-Site Hotels – Staying on-site not only saves you the costs of parking, gas, and a car rental, but also gives you more time at the parks instead of driving.
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 offers great family fun. |
| Summer | Groups with children can take advantage of summer break. | Several parades and firework shows throughout the season. |
| Fall | The summer crowds and heat both start to go down. | Universal's Halloween Horror Nights can add a spooky element to your trip. |
| Winter | Smaller crowds, shorter lines, and temperate weather. | Grinchmas and the Holiday Parade highlight a series of seasonal events. |
Beyond the events, the Universal parks themselves are always undergoing updates and changes. A travel agent can help you get ahead of these and plan the right trip for you.
Des Moines, IA, Universal Travel Agent FAQs
Does Universal work 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.
How expensive are travel agents?
You don't have to pay anything when you book a Universal Orlando trip with Me and the Mouse Travel. Our agents are paid directly from Universal for helping customers book their trips, so you don't have to worry about trip advisor costs.
Should I stay at an on-site Universal hotel?
By staying on-site at Universal, you can take advantage of the following:
- No parking fees
- Shorter commute
- 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 (September) and late winter (January-February) are normally the most affordable times to visit Universal, as long as you avoid holidays.
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 also visit Disney World on the same trip as Universal Orlando?
You can! Though this will take additional time and coordination. When deciding on a Universal travel agent in Des Moines, IA, look for someone who can also handle Disney World vacation planning.
Is Universal worth it for people who aren't fans of roller coasters?
Yes, it's still worth it to visit Universal Orlando for attractions other than the rides. There are lots of atmospheric areas, character encounters, and shows that are available to you, as well as the beach at Volcano Bay.
Work With a Universal Travel Agent in Des Moines, IA, Now
Your Des Moines, IA, Universal travel agent is someone who can help you design the perfect trip for you. You want someone who will create a custom plan that fits your family's interests and timeline.
For customized travel plans in Des Moines, call Me and The Mouse Travel. You can trust us with your family's trip; when you call one of our agents, you're getting someone with experience and a team to back them up. On top of Universal Orlando, we also offer blanket vacation planning services.
Start planning your trip 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.