What better place to throw a few back with friends than a theme park? Welcome to Universal Orlando. Three incredible parks, Volcano Bay, Islands of Adventure, and Universal Studios, are linked together by a bustling City Walk.

As you might already know, these are not your nephew’s kiddie-party theme parks. There is plenty to entertain even the most mature adults in your group— including alcoholic beverages. Afterward, our vacation rentals in Davenport and Kissimmee, Florida, provide the perfect respite from the buzzing amusement park atmosphere where you can nurse your hangover or rehydrate for another day in the park.

Of the three Universal Orlando parks, Islands of Adventure is often hailed as the “most adult” or the park jam-packed with the most adrenaline-pumping thrill rides. But Universal Studios certainly packs a punch in the adult beverage department.

We’re taking a dive deep into the cold beverage scene of Universal Studios to show you where you can find the best bars and nightlife within (and around) this particular Orlando theme park.

1. Chez Alcatraz

Photo Credit: Sunshyne Robinson

Situated on the Fisherman’s Wharf look-alike of the San Francisco-themed land right next door to a massive Great White Shark photo op, you can sip on some specialty rum cocktails at this full bar. Reminiscent of a sea-farers sports bar, the most popular menu items are the Bloody Marys and The Bruce (named after the shark itself). The Single Rider is a secret “off-the-menu” concoction frequently ordered by regulars. Don’t forget to order yourself an appetizer to tide you over.

2. Finnegan’s Bar & Grill

Photo Credit: Dariia Belkina

Finnegan’s offers a huge selection of beer that you won’t find anywhere else in the park. But it’s their take on a classic drink, the gin and tonic, that truly makes the Irish American pub worth a quick stop. They are also a full-service restaurant serving up classic bar eats like burgers and chicken wings.

3. Duff Brewery

The Duff Brewery is sure to evoke nostalgia among those of drinking age. The Simpsons was a staple of our childhood, after all, and with outdoor seating and light fair-style snacks such as soft pretzels and corn dogs, you can kick back and watch the Simpsons play on repeat.

4. The Fountain of Fair Fortune

Photo Credit: chettarin

This wizard-friendly watering hole is, without a doubt, one of the best places to grab a themed drink within Universal Studios.

Here, you can sip on a fruity, non-alcoholic pumpkin juice or enjoy an extra large Butterbeer, which just might be the best drink in the entire park. While you’re enjoying the wizarding world, don’t forget to pop over to Hog’s Head pub (if you have the multi-park ticket) or the very British dining room of the Leaky Cauldron for other novel drinking opportunities.

Stops to Make On Your Way to Universal

These iconic bars are located in the Universal City Walk area just outside Universal Studios. Many of these fun bars are also featured in Universal Studios Hollywood’s City Walk on the other side of the country.

5. Bar 17 at Aventura Hotel

Photo Credit: Brent Hofacker

This snazzy bar is built for adult theme park adventurers. Unlike other drinking destinations on this list, this place is a bar first, a restaurant second, and has very little to do with the immersive attractions located elsewhere in the park and CityWalk. This bar is an all-around excellent rooftop bar whether you’re in town for Universal Studios or not! Come here for a stunning sunset after a long day in Universal.

6. Beachclub

Photo Credit: Oksana Mizina

You don’t have to stay at the resort to enjoy the amenities. The sprawling “Universal Orlando Resort area” has many bars, including sports bars, lounges, and rooftop bars. One of the best is inside the Hard Rock Hotel. This rooftop poolside bar makes you feel as though you’re on a tropical vacation. Enjoy some seafood snacks like Ahi tuna and a bit of a kitschy Caribbean vibe to cap off your day in Universal Studios.

7. Fat Tuesday

Photo Credit: Rimma Bondarenko

  • 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL (City Walk)
  • fattuesday.com
  • Ambiance:
  • $
  • Recommended Menu Item: Slushies in a quirky take-home cup

Let’s go to Bourbon Street without ever leaving Universal Studios. This waterfront stand has loads of flavored slushies that are the perfect afternoon cool-off opportunity on a hot Florida day. The drinks here are extra large and extra strong so be sure to imbibe responsibly.

8. Great Movie Escape

Photo Credit: Alexander Mogilevets

This one is for those of you who pride yourself on finding the lesser-known hidden gems in every destination. This is actually an escape room! But don’t worry, you’re not supposed to drink AND participate. Sip on popcorn-flavored falernum and chocolate-smoke-flavored old-fashioned inside this Jurassic Park and Back to the Future-themed bar.

9. Margaritaville

Photo Credit: Marie-matata

  • 6000 Universal Studios Plaza #704, Orlando, FL (City Walk)
  • margaritavilleorlando.com
  • Late Night Volcano Bar with Dancing + A Tropical Vibe
  • $$
  • Recommended Menu Item: Loaded Landshark or flavored Margarita

You’ve likely heard of Jimmy Buffett and his famous Margaritaville. While it lends itself to a tropical Mexican paradise, it’s truly 100% American through and through. Voted the number one burger in Orlando and often a host of live music and live entertainment, it makes for a perfect place to grab a bite, a beer, or a strawberry margarita and relax in the afternoon.

If you’re specifically looking for the best restaurants in Central Florida, we’ve got you covered.

10. Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food

Photo Credit: Mariyana M

The brightly colored facade of this eatery draws you in, and the tasty fried Mexican cuisine and friendly bartenders keep you there. You won’t regret filling up on empanadas, burritos, and tacos while you down margaritas and listen to live Mariachi music.

The list of places to drink in City Walk on your way to Universal Studios is long and ever-growing. If you have time, you can always pop into NBC Sports Grill & Brew, Pat O’ Brien’s, or Bigfire for one of their signature drinks!

Stay Near Orlando’s Universal Studios

If you’re looking for accessibility, comfort, luxury, and an excellent location for your next getaway to Orlando, look no further. Our vacation rentals are perfectly situated to get you into Jurassic World or Dreamworks Land quickly and conveniently while also offering a quiet haven to sleep in, just far enough away from the noisy Universal and Disney parks nearby.

Book your Element vacation stay today!

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