When planning a vacation, you’ll have Universal Studios and Disney World for the options.
But is Universal Studios part of Disney? No, they’re separate companies with different owners and histories. Universal Studios has parks in Orlando, Hollywood, Japan, and Beijing, while Disney has its own collection of magical kingdoms.
The confusion makes sense because both are entertainment companies with theme parks, characters, movies, and the colorful gift shops.
Also, they’re so close to each other in Orlando that it’s easy to assume they’re connected.
In this post, I’ll talk about the is Universal Studios part of Disney.
We’ll look at who owns what, how these parks differ, which can be better for your family, and answer the questions about their relationship.
The Overview of Universal Studios
Universal Studios parks are owned by NBCUniversal, which is part of Comcast Corporation.
They’ve built their identity around bringing movies and TV shows like Harry Potter, dinosaurs from Jurassic World, the yellow Minions, and Transformers.
The Universal parks are global. You’ll find Universal Studios in Orlando (Florida), Hollywood (California), Osaka (Japan), and Beijing (China).
Each park has its own attractions, but they are around that magic feel.
The parent company structure goes like this: Comcast owns NBCUniversal, which owns Universal Parks & Resorts.
Disney parks are different.
The Walt Disney Company owns them, and they focus on Disney’s original characters, classic fairy tales, and acquired franchises like Star Wars and Marvel.
While Universal goes for the “you’re in the movies” vibe, Disney creates fantasy worlds.
Who owns Universal Studios Orlando?
Universal Studios Orlando is owned by NBCUniversal, which is part of the Comcast Corporation.
The company bought Universal parks in 2009 when they acquired an interest in NBCUniversal. In 2013, Comcast bought the shares to gain complete ownership.
The Universal Orlando Resort has grown over the years.
It includes two theme parks (Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure), a water park called Volcano Bay, and the CityWalk entertainment district with restaurants, shops, and nightlife.
Is Universal Studios owned by Disney?
Universal Studios is NOT owned by Disney. This is the biggest misconception in the theme park world.
These are separate companies that compete against each other.
As I mentioned earlier, Universal Studios is owned by NBCUniversal, while Disney parks are owned by The Walt Disney Company.
They’re major rivals trying to compete with big attractions, better technology, and immersive experiences.
According to travel industry reports, this has been great for visitors.
Both companies keep pushing the envelope with new attractions and technologies.
Key Differences Between Universal Studios and Disney World
If you’re planning a vacation, knowing the differences between these parks can help you choose the right one for your family.
These two entertainment giants have different vibes, ride types, and experiences despite being only 10 miles apart.
Theme and Atmosphere
Universal Studios has a grown-up, action-packed feel.
Going inside the Universal is like stepping onto movie sets.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Islands of Adventure is mind-blowing in its details.
Disney World, on the other hand, creates fairy tale environments that feel like different worlds.
Magic Kingdom’s Fantasyland isn’t trying to recreate a movie set but it’s trying to transport you to a magical reality.
Disney focuses on storytelling and character interactions that create emotional connections.
My younger clients come back talking about meeting Mickey rather than being on rides.
Types of Rides
Universal Studios has amazing thrill rides and simulators.
The roller coasters like the Incredible Hulk and Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit are business for thrill-seekers.
They also love their screen-based simulator rides that make you feel like you’re flying with Harry Potter or racing with Fast & Furious characters.
Disney offers a wide range of ride intensities, but keeps things family-friendly.
You’ll find boat rides like “it’s a small world,” moderately thrilling rides like Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, and an intense experiences like Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster.
Audience
Universal Studios targets teens and adults who want movie-themed thrills and exciting attractions.
It’s perfect for families with old kids, movie buffs, and anyone who loves Harry Potter.
Most of the cool rides have height requirements of 42″ or more.
Disney World caters to the wide age range, from toddlers to grandparents.
It’s magical for families with young children.
The Disney brand creates nostalgia for adults while introducing new generations to their classic characters.
Size of the Park and Offerings
Universal Orlando is compact with three parks: Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay water park.
You can walk between the main parks and ride the Hogwarts Express train. This makes it possible to experience Universal in 2-3 days.
Disney World is MASSIVE in comparison with four theme parks (Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom), two water parks, and 25 hotels across the property.
Technology and Immersion
Both parks are tech wizards, but they use technology. Universal loves cutting-edge simulators and screen-based attractions.
The Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride combines screens, animatronics, and a ride system to create something magical.
Disney focuses on subtle technology that enhances storytelling.
Their Audio-Animatronics are lifelike, and new attractions like Rise of the Resistance blend multiple ride systems so you don’t notice the technology.
Universal studios or Disney world, which is better?
It depends on what you’re in the mood for. Based on my experience of Florida vacations, here’s my take:
Universal Studios is better if:
- Your kids are teenagers or older
- You love movies, especially Harry Potter
- Your group wants more thrilling rides
- You have limited time
- You prefer a compact, walkable experience
Disney World is better if:
- You have young children
- You love Disney characters and classic animation
- Your group prefers gentler rides with variety
- You have more time
- You want that “vacation kingdom” experience with diverse parks
Many of my clients split their vacation between the two resorts.
Maybe 2 days at Universal and 4-5 days at Disney. This way you get to experience everything Orlando has to offer.
Are Universal Studios or Disney World connected in any way?
Despite being 10 miles apart, these parks have zero connections.
They don’t offer joint tickets, combined packages, or shared transportation.
Each wants you to spend your entire vacation exclusively.
According to Orlando tourism reports, about 40% of visitors visit both resorts.
This has created unofficial “connector” services, third-party shuttle companies that will transport you between the resorts.
Rideshares like Uber and Lyft make it easy to bounce between the parks.
Many Disney employees moonlight at Universal on their days off, and the opposite.
The Orlando theme park community is small, and workers swap stories about both companies.
Is Disney buying universal studios?
This rumor comes up every few years, but there’s no truth. In fact, Comcast has been investing money into their theme parks to compete with Disney. Their upcoming Epic Universe park is a $1+ billion project designed to keep Universal.
According to financial analysts who track the industry, a merger would face antitrust concerns.
Disney owns so many entertainment companies that adding Universal would create a monopoly in the theme park and entertainment world.
Disney’s parks division reported revenue of $28.7 billion in 2022, while Comcast’s theme park division reported $7.5 billion the same year.
These are healthy competitors with no plans to join.
Conclusion
Is Universal Studios part of Disney but they’re separate companies with different owners, different creative approaches, and a competition that pushes both to create amazing experiences.
Universal focuses on movies, thrills, and teen and adult experiences, while Disney creates family-friendly environments based on their classic characters and stories.
Both are amazing vacation destinations that give unique experiences.
When planning your Orlando vacation, consider what your family enjoys.
The most important thing is matching the right park to your family’s interests, ages, and vacation style.
Universal Studios is not part of Disney world but they are both separate.
So, the question of “Is Universal Studios part of Disney” is common and comes up everytime but they have their own identities.
FAQs
Universal Studios and Disney World are about 10 miles apart in Orlando. Driving between them takes 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and which Disney park you’re heading to. Magic Kingdom is very far from Universal.
Universal Studios is cheaper than Disney World across the board. A 1-day, 1-park ticket to Universal costs about $109-139 depending on the season, while Disney’s single-day tickets range from $109-189. Universal’s Express Pass is less expensive than Disney’s Lightning Lane system.
This comparison isn’t quite since Disneyland is in California while Universal has parks in both California and Florida. If we’re talking about Universal Hollywood vs. Disneyland in California, Disneyland offers more rides, better theming, and a complete vacation experience. Universal Hollywood is small and can be done in a day.
No, Disney World is bigger than Universal Orlando. Disney World spans about 25,000 acres with four theme parks, two water parks, 25+ hotels, and multiple golf courses. Universal Orlando covers only 840 acres with two theme parks, one water park, and eight hotels.
