Universal Orlando Resort — Attraction in Orlando

I think I have the most passionate hogwartz fan on the planet. My first time there. But I have to tell you what happened before the trip!! Ok my kid has read every book on Harry Potter and even the books by its ghost writers about the mauraders before Harry. A must read. She then tells me I have to be sorted into a house prior to my arrival. So after doing this test - she tells me I am a hufflepuff and that she is too. Now these hufflepuff are mellow herbologists if you catch my meaning and want to be liked. Not me but anyway there color is yellow and I do not look good in this hue. So two nights before the trip my daughter calls me and said you are going to have to sit down. She got our tests wrong and I am actually a slitheran . I bought all new outfits and found I was supporting the wrong house. I had an identity crisis. Though this house had some bad eggs they are known for being determined, leaders and wear green which looks fabulous on me. But my daughter says she would take all the hufflepuff gear off my shoulders.... I think I got played for a new wardrobe! The jury is still out on this.

We prepaid for two days... you need three What I liked is they have escalators- a necessity if you are not fond of walking and your feet ache at the end of your day!!! Disney does not have this- cautionary tale.

The different locations have something for everyone but no cover. Please bring water canisters free refills all over the park and if you have flavor packets you will thank me later

When you walk in you think you are in New York- it is not Disney with the horticulture it is industrial.

Stopped for pizza and gelato. Advisory it does not taste like New York pizza. Avoid at all cost! Next to it was bodega. For 4 dollars we had a huge portion of fruit. That satisfied without the price tag, I do not know if you have seen enchanted but their was a 1 legged pigeon, who I feel was a paid actor because he found us twice for good and was fed because of his disability and knew how to get his daily meals.

Universal had a parade and unlike Disney you are watching these actors keep in character from some iconic shows with a lot of extra urban flavor like professional bike riders performing stunts.

And behind every studio a surprise we saw bumblebee from transformers, listened to some amazing singers and then yes rode rides!! Now I am not tiny but fit on 95 percent of the rides! Big girls rule!!!

My favorite was TRON Go early because my daughter saw the line was 40 minutes wait and after we got there it was 110 minutes but wow what a rush, I had fun also at men in black/ you know big city bug wants to take over NYC. It was a shooting game and my daughter was laughing at me because I was a terrible shot and then they said hit the red button and only mine lit up to win 100,000 points! Yea my daughter was having a fit!!

No long wait times, rode the auto bots/ excellent and surprisingly good and then went to see Jimmy Fallon race. I loved the employees who kept in character and made us feel like we were not important- I loved it and had seats to wait our turn like we were on a live taping. You gotta do this one for sure.

Oh and yes the villains were in full effect at despicable me. I laughed all the way to the end and gave me great ideas for license plate names! Fun for all.

What I truly loved was you can get free lockers as many as you need for each ride you are going on so not to lose your possessions. At Disney they are only at the front of the park. So you must be strategic as to when you need a change of outfits,

And Universal did something extraordinary they made a separate kiddie park full of shriek and donkey. Water rides and if you do not want to spend it was a very nice change. We even got to meet kungfu panda and learn stretches - it was very tranquil.

Okay I know I said we were there for the wizarding world. I bought a chocolate frog??? Good but very pricey. I drank butter beer - my daughter loved it. It is an acquired taste. We had a chicken patty at hogsmead--and...

Orlando Universal Resort is truly a world-class destination, offering an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. From the moment you step into the resort, you're transported into a realm of excitement, adventure, and magic that Universal Studios is renowned for. Each aspect of the resort—from the thrilling rides to the spectacular shows, impeccable service, and beautifully themed environments—is designed to immerse guests in a cinematic universe that delights the senses and stirs the imagination.

The resort's two theme parks, Universal Studios Florida and Universal's Islands of Adventure, each offer a unique blend of attractions and experiences. Universal Studios Florida invites guests to "ride the movies" with attractions like "The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley," where you can explore the cobblestone streets, shop for wizarding gear, and even take a ride on the Escape from Gringotts coaster. Meanwhile, Universal's Islands of Adventure provides more thrilling rides and adventures, including the incredible "Jurassic Park River Adventure," a drenching plunge into a dinosaur-filled landscape, and "The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man," a groundbreaking 3D ride that has won numerous awards for its innovation.

One cannot speak of Universal without highlighting "The Wizarding World of Harry Potter." Split between the two parks, this part of the resort is a must-visit for fans and newcomers alike. The Hogwarts Express connects the two areas, offering not just a convenient mode of transport but also an experience filled with enchantment and surprise. Hogsmeade Village in Islands of Adventure is breathtaking in its authenticity, while the aforementioned Diagon Alley in Universal Studios offers an immersive experience that is second to none. From sipping on Butterbeer to experiencing the thrills of the Hogwarts Castle ride, these areas are a testament to Universal's commitment to authenticity and detail.

The resort also excels in its dining options, ranging from quick snacks to full gourmet meals. Each restaurant and food stall is carefully themed to enhance the immersive experience. For instance, the Leaky Cauldron in Diagon Alley doesn’t just serve British cuisine; it plunges you into the very heart of a Harry Potter story. Additionally, the CityWalk area offers a variety of dining experiences that cater to every taste and budget, from the vibrant atmosphere of Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville to the fine dining at Emeril’s Restaurant Orlando.

Accommodations at Universal are equally impressive, with several on-site hotels that cater to a range of preferences and budgets. Each hotel is themed meticulously, such as the Hard Rock Hotel, which offers a rock ‘n’ roll atmosphere combined with luxury, or the more laid-back Caribbean-inspired Loews Sapphire Falls Resort. The convenience of staying on-site also includes early park admission and free transportation to the parks, adding value and ease to your stay.

Universal's customer service is notable for its friendliness and efficiency. Staff members go out of their way to assist guests, demonstrate enthusiasm, and contribute positively to the overall experience. Whether it’s helping guests navigate the parks, providing insider tips on how to best enjoy the attractions, or creating magical moments for children, the staff are truly Universal’s unsung heroes.

In conclusion, Orlando Universal Resort offers more than just a vacation—it provides an epic adventure into the realms of fantasy and excitement. Its combination of thrilling rides, immersive environments, quality dining, and excellent accommodations make it an outstanding choice for families, couples, and solo travelers looking for an experience that goes beyond the ordinary. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a movie buff, or just looking to create some magical memories, Universal Orlando is the...

From the moment you step into Universal Orlando’s Islands of Adventure, you know you’re in for something extraordinary. This park offers a perfect blend of thrilling rides, immersive environments, and exceptional guest experiences that make it deserving of a full 5-star rating. Whether you’re a roller coaster junkie, a fan of beloved franchises, or simply looking for a day packed with fun, Islands of Adventure delivers on every level.

Incredible Ride Selection Islands of Adventure is a playground for thrill seekers and family fun alike. From high-speed launches on The Incredible Hulk Coaster to the multi-sensory adventure of Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, the park boasts rides that are not only adrenaline-pumping but also expertly themed and engaging.

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey itself is a groundbreaking attraction that combines state-of-the-art robotics, immersive storytelling, and breathtaking visuals. The ride transports you into the wizarding world like no other, blending physical sets and innovative technology to create an unforgettable experience. But that’s just one of many gems.

Other standout rides include Jurassic Park River Adventure, where you get to experience a thrilling plunge amidst life-like dinosaurs, and Skull Island: Reign of Kong, an intense journey through the mysterious jungle filled with incredible animatronics and effects. Every ride is meticulously crafted to deliver excitement, narrative, and unique thrills.

Immersive Theming and Environments What truly sets Islands of Adventure apart is its immersive themed lands. Walking through The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, you’re surrounded by the sights, sounds, and even smells of the magical world. From the quaint shops to the towering Hogwarts Castle, every detail is designed with fan dedication and craftsmanship.

The park’s other themed areas, including Marvel Super Hero Island, Toon Lagoon, and Jurassic Park, offer equally impressive environments that pull guests into their stories. The attention to detail in architecture, costuming, music, and even ambient noises creates a rich, believable world you want to explore for hours.

Guest Experience and Entertainment Beyond rides and theming, Islands of Adventure offers excellent guest services and entertainment. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable, maintaining a welcoming atmosphere throughout the park. The entertainment options, from live shows to character meet-and-greets, add to the immersive experience and provide plenty of photo opportunities.

Dining options are varied and themed, with unique eateries like the Three Broomsticks offering authentic wizarding fare. While the food is pricier than average, the quality and thematic immersion justify the expense.

Accessibility and Crowd Management Islands of Adventure is well designed for accessibility, accommodating guests with disabilities effectively to ensure everyone can enjoy the park. Though crowds can be heavy during peak seasons, the park’s layout and use of virtual queues (such as Universal Express Pass) help manage wait times and improve the overall flow.

Final Thoughts: A Must-Visit Theme Park Islands of Adventure isn’t just a theme park — it’s a full sensory experience that combines thrilling rides, masterful storytelling, and immersive environments in a way few parks can match. Whether you’re flying alongside Harry Potter, escaping dinosaurs, or zooming through superhero adventures, the park consistently delivers excitement and wonder.

For these reasons, I give Islands of Adventure a well-deserved 5 out of 5 stars. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone who loves theme parks, and it promises memories that will...