Let’s Talk About Universal Studios Orlando
As everyone knows, I generally going to Walt Disney World a couple of times a year. I usually only spend a single day in Universal Studios, but this past trip I spent 3 days.
Now, WDW and USO are very different. I would say one is more gentle and the other is more thrilling. That’s not to say that both parks don’t have something to offer everyone.
There are a number to 3D rides at Universal Studios which are not always great for those who suffer from motion sickness, like myself, but I do always enjoy myself.
As a solo traveller, I generally get through both parks in less than a day. I find the the parks to be much smaller so it really doesn’t take to get through.
Where To Stay
Universal Studios has some really great resort options in all kinds of price points. As I don’t usually stay on property, I was excited to see what Universal Endless Summer Dockside Inn & Suites had to offer.
The food court has enough to offer that everyone should be happy. Like other Universal Resort properties, there is a Starbucks and gift shop in the lobby. The pool seems to offer enough space to enjoy (it was closed most of the days I was there due to weather). The rooms are basic but very comfortable.
The sand and surf decor was relaxing and calming. There are laundry rooms on 3 different floors that make it easy to do a quick load, they do cost extra! My biggest pet peeve of this resort was the elevators, they took forever!!
While it is true that most Universal Studios resorts are not *technically* on property, they are all in very close. There are free shuttle buses to and from CityWalk that run daily. I honestly never waited more than a couple of minutes. The buses run very frequently and are easy to get to. All buses and parking go to CityWalk, the dining and shopping area, where you will go through security and then head towards either Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure.
I am looking forward to staying here again in September so I can enjoy that pool!
Islands of Adventure
Now, which park to start your day in is a personal choice, I personally always start in Islands of Adventure.
I usually head to the park for opening and go straight to the Croissant Moon Cafe for breakfast. I love the theming of the Port of Entry. If you walk through slowly enough, be sure to listen. It’s not just the sights, but the sounds as well.
There is some great shopping and snacks to be found in Port of Entry, don’t rush through too quickly!
Most people go through and head straight to the bigger rides like The Hulk or rides in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. I like to head to Seuss Landing and take in all the colourful sites before it gets busy for the day.
Wizarding World of Harry Potter
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter in located in both Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios. With a park to park ticket, you can ride the Hogwarts Express between the 2 parks. If you are a Harry Potter fan, this is the area for you!
These areas get crowded pretty early in the day. Go through this area with patience. The stores are fairly small, and the dining areas are very popular.
Grab a butterbeer and stroll through Diagon Alley. Visit the shops in Hogsmeade. Take an out of control mine car through Gringotts and sneak out of the castle to watch Quidditch with Harry.
Dreamworks Land
I was excited to see the new Dreamworks area in Universal Studios. This new area is, frankly, adorable. It is fun to see and kids will certainly love the water play area’s.
Like most of the other area’s in Universal Studios and Islands of adventure, this area is still quite small. Kids will love the rides, show and character meet and greets. There are several fun play areas.
I would definitely recommend this area for those visiting with kids. Parents can have a break while the kids can play!
Many Amazing Islands
Kids will love Seuss Landing and Springfield USA. Teens will love Super Hero Island and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Adults will love it all!
While I personally don’t spend a lot of time at Universal, mostly due to the fact that I can’t do most of the rides, it is a very fun way to spend a day or so!
Something EPIC is coming…
Ok, but who else is excited?? Universal EPIC Universe is set to open on May 22, 2025.
This new park will include areas like Super Nintendo, Ministry of Magic, How to Train Your Dragon, and Dark Universe. There are also 3 new resorts coming!
While we do know some information about what to except, we wont really know until the park opens!
If you are interested in learning more, or planning a trip, please reach out to [email protected].