Universal Islands of Adventure is home to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade Village as well as 6 other islands each with its own theme, multiple attractions and dining options. Islands of Adventure has more thrill rides than Universal Studios, so be sure to check the height requirements prior to your visit. There are even really cool height testers outside the entrance to the park.
Both parks offer child swap programs that allow one member of a party with a small child to wait with that child, in a very nice waiting area, while the rest of the party rides. Then the adults swap, so everyone can enjoy the attraction. Most of the swap areas I visited had chairs, a changing table and some had lockers and a TV playing a movie or show that related to the theme of the ride.
Port of Entry is home to the park entrance and their version of the Lighthouse of Alexandria (one of the seven wonders of the ancient world). It is also home to many park services, including first aid, stroller/wheelchair rentals and more. You can also find shops and refreshment options here.
Wizarding World of Harry Potter is easily one of the most popular reasons guests visit Islands of Adventure. From the moment you step through the gates of the village, you are transported to Hogsmeade and can see Hogwarts Castle looming in the distance. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade Village is home to 2 thrill rides – the Dragon Challenge and Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey as well as the family friendly Flight of the Hippogriff. You can sip on Butter Beer or Pumpkin Juice from one of the snack carts, dine at Three Broomsticks or even view a Tri-Wizard Cup Pep Rally. Don’t miss out on Ollivander’s Wand Shop. This shop is more than just a simple shop – it is a complete experience as you watch a young wizard select their first wand.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade Village is open an hour prior to the park’s opening for guests staying at one of Universal’s Deluxe property hotels. Plan your trip accordingly though – the Wizarding World is scheduled for an amazing expansion this upcoming summer. At Universal Studios, you will be able to visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – London/Diagon Alley and ride the Hogwarts Express from Diagon Alley to Hogsmeade Village, making visiting 2 parks in one day even easier!
Jurassic Park – As we’ve already covered ( https://travelwiththemagic.com/live-adventure-jurassic-park/) the island of Jurassic Park transports you to the jungle where you will find the Jurassic Park Discovery Center and Camp Jurassic. Don’t miss visiting the center and seeing how the DNA was cloned and, if you’re lucky, you might even get to see a baby dinosaur hatching! You can ride the Jurassic Park River Adventure (note – you will get VERY wet!!) or young guests can enjoy Pteranadon Flyers.
Don’t miss the wacky world of Dr. Seuss in Seuss Landing. Here you will get to relive your childhood favorites such as Green Eggs and Ham (a dining establishment), One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish (a fun family friendly ride), and even the Zax bypass. If you visit during November and December, you’ll feel as you have stepped right into Whoville. You won’t want to miss Grinchmas – the live action retelling of “Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (only available during the holiday season).
Lost Continent is based on the ruins of Greece and Northern Africa. Here you’ll find shows such as Poseidon’s Fury and The Eighth Voyage of Sinbad Stunt show. Don’t be fooled by the word show – Poseidon’s Fury is an interactive experience. You’ll be guided by an archeologist through the newly discovered darkened ruins of Poseidon. Be careful – you might be caught in the middle of a battle between good and evil! Lost Continent is also home to the award winning Mythos Restaurant.
Toon Lagoon is home to the wettest rides on property – Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls and Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge Rat Barges. You’ll also find an interactive children’s play area where they can soak guests riding the Bilge Rate Barges.
Comics rule the day in Marvel Super Hero Island. You’ll find Spider-Man, the Incredible Hulk, X-Men and other Marvel characters and streets and alleys themed after their comic series. There are 4 major attractions including the Incredible Hulk Coaster, Dr. Doom’s Fearfall and the Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man. The Incredible Hulk Coaster does 7 inversions and reaches a speed of 67 mph! Dr. Doom’s Fearfall is not for the faint of heart (watch the ride drop a couple of times before you ride and you’ll understand!) The 3-D Spider-Man ride is a simulator ride. Keep your eyes open for a cameo (or two) by Stan Lee. Of course, there are also shops and dining locations as well. This area is very loud (not the best place to head if you have a child sleeping in the stroller!)
Would you like to experience the thrills of Universal’s Islands of Adventure? Please email me at Amy@TravelWithTheMagic.com or you can find me on Facebook so I can book your family’s adventure at Universal Orlando! You can also call me at 1-800-670-4312, ext 129. I can’t wait to plan your family’s MAGICAL vacation!
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