When families travel to Orlando, Florida, they normally head straight to Walt Disney World and overlook other parks. Although Universal Orlando Resort offers more thrilling rides than Disney World, there are plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy at all three of Universal’s parks: Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure and the newest, Volcano Bay Waterpark.
One of the best parts of Universal Orlando Resort is you can do both parks in one day; I recommended spending the extra money on the Express Pass so you can skip the lines for most of your favorite rides. Before heading to the theme park, do research on ride height requirements so you know which ones are appropriate for your children. Also, stay up to date on all COVID-19 safety updates and procedures here.
Start the day at Universal Studios Florida and head straight for Despicable Me Minion Mayhem — this ride usually draws long lines, so get in and out before the wait gets too long. The adorable little minions and gang take you on a virtual adventure through the laboratory and, after the ride, stick around and show off your best moves at the minion dance party.
Next, get in line for Revenge of the Mummy. This indoor roller coaster is one of the best, taking you on twists and turns while trying to escape the evil mummy. Some other amazing rides you should make sure are on your list are E.T. Adventure, Race Through New York starring Jimmy Fallon, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts and, for the older kids, Hollywood’s Rip Ride Rockit.
Once you’ve finished everything you want to do, hop on Hogwarts Express: King’s Cross Station for a nice ride through London — keep an eye out the window because you never know who might pop up. Once you reach your stop, you’ll be in Hogsmeade in Islands of Adventure park.
Before setting out to explore the park, try the delicious ButterBeer in Hogsmeade. Since you are in Hogsmeade already, start with the Harry Potter rides. Head to Hogwarts for Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, where you join Harry Potter and friends on a flying broom ride through Hogwarts, and then follow Hagrid on a Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure through the forbidden forest.
Other rides in Islands of Adventure to make sure you ride are Cat in the Hat, Jurassic Park River Adventure and, for the older kids, The Incredible Hulk Coaster.
If your family is a fan of waterparks, spend a day at Volcano Bay; whether relaxing by the pool or taking on the thrilling rides, your family is guaranteed to have a good day.
Read This Next
#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedMultigenerational
Apr 22, 2024Travel Sustainably with BWH Hotels
BWH Hotels invites family travelers to experience sustainable practices across its global portfolio. The brand prioritizes sustainable and responsible tourism through its Because We Care program and various partnerships with eco-friendly brands.
Sponsored Content
Unearth Seoul’s Hidden Gems
Filled with hidden treasures waiting to be discovered, Seoul invites travelers to unearth its many gems, and Seoul Tourism Organization is here to help travelers do just that. Through thoughtfully created initiatives like the Theme Tourism County Competition, Seoul Tourism Organization works closely with local districts to identify and showcase what makes each district unique and charming in all seasons.
Parents
Apr 22, 20244 Gift Ideas for Mother’s Day
Mother’s Day fast approaches, and all mothers and mother figures deserve something extra special this year. Treat the mom in your life, whether she’s an outdoor enthusiast or host extraordinaire, to these four great gifts.
Multigenerational
Apr 19, 2024Family-Friendly Offerings from Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection
Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection includes the largest portfolio of luxury all-inclusive resorts in the world — many of them perfect for family travelers. And two current offers might entice your family even more.
Sponsored Content
Make the Most of Hamad International Airport When Transferring
Making travel plans can be exciting; did you know planning on how to spend time at the airport the right way can enrich the overall trip experience? As a transfer hub, traveling through Doha's Hamad International Airport is a unique experience, as waiting never feels like waiting at one of the best airports in the world.
Cruising
Apr 15, 2024Some of Europe’s Best Day Cruises
A week cruising along the Danube or the Rhine may be the stuff of dreams for many, but family travelers can enjoy views from the water in ways kinder to the family budget. Many riverside cities offer scenic cruises, and some Baltic or Mediterranean ports have daytrips to nearby islands or coastal attractions. In several cities you can cruise the canals, and in Switzerland you can spend a day cruising on Lake Geneva, with sightseeing stops in lakeside towns.
ShareThis