Do they validate parking? It seems if I'm going to be spending $150+ on a mesl, I shouldn't have to cough up $20 more to park just because we want to go in the afternoon (before 6pm).

Not sure. We stayed at the Portofino so we took the water taxi.

No one on City Walk, etc validates parking because you pay prior to going in. However, to complete with Disney Springs, Universal does not charge parking after 6 regardless if you are going to parks or City Walk.

They do not validate

No idea got either the bus or a uber everytime we went to city walk or universal

If you're staying close by use Uber or Lyft. Even if you spend $20 on them, they will get you closer and you won't have to worry about the crazy drivers on Kirkman or I-4 after a few drinks.

Parking was free!

There is no parking validation

No they don't.

My hotel had shuttles to city walk universal cabana bay beach

I would have to say probably no. You can get valet parking very close to the restaurant but it will cost you $45. Depends on how much you want to walk as to which one is best for you.

I really don't think so.

Not sure the hotel we stayed at provided shuttle to and from city walk.