A Practical Guide to Universal Studios Orlando

Jade shares all the essential info and tips to this mega popular attraction in Florida

Universal Studios, Orlando is one of the most desirable places to visit whilst in Florida, as well as being a world class attraction. Universal Studios itself is a large complex which is sectioned into different parts. In brief “City Walk”, “Island of Adventures” and “Universal Studios” are the 3 main parts that make up Universal as a whole. On arrival at Universal Resort there is designated car parking facilities for those driving or if you are using the frequent shuttle bus services you will be transported to the Universal bus station (the bus station and the car park offer easy access straight to the entrance). Although you will have to pass through quick security bag check, from then on you will be taken through to the first section “City Walk”.

City Walk is a family-friendly social scene with a thriving atmosphere. A variety of restaurants, shops, cinema, clubs and bars can be found which are open until early hours in the morning. There are many themed dining spots and well renowned names such as Hard Rock Café, Fossil and Billabong. City Walk is a great place to shop and unwind after a day of adventure. It might help to mention, that some restaurants will require a reservation but this does not apply to all. There is an information stop on entrance to City Walk, where you will be able to make reservations and even check over the menus of each restaurant before making your decision and of course they will be able to answer any other questions you may have. Onwards from City Walk you are able to carry on either left towards “Island of Adventures” or right towards “Universal Studios”.

Island of Adventures is Universal's more thrill seeking adventure park, home to adrenalin pumping rides, which include “The Incredible Hulk”, “Spiderman”, “Jurassic Park” and the new “Harry Potter's Wizarding World”; it is without a doubt one of the more popular parks. Once you have passed the ticket kiosk it a helpful idea to grab a couple of map guides to help you study the layout of the park and this way you can also figure out which direction you wish to go. If you do not wish to use the map all the time, having it in you bag can become helpful if you get lost, or if the kids suddenly decide they want to go on a specific ride. All the rides in the park are located and referenced on the map along with first aid centres and restrooms (in the case of an emergency).

Harry Potter's Wizarding World is one of Universal's newest arrivals after the success of the film saga. The highly anticipated development (located in the Island of Adventure Park) includes Hogwarts castle, Hogsmeade village and all of famous shops seen in the films, including Ollivander's wand shop and Honeyduke's sweet store. As you enter the village of Hogsmeade you will be greeted by the Hogwarts Express and you will pass through the village and shops up-to Hogwarts castle. The real life experience will transform you into Harry Potter's world and the whole wizarding experience. With plenty to see; whether your want to fly along side Harry through the castle grounds or purchase your own Hogwarts robe, your first wand from Ollivander's or perhaps you just want to clench your thirst with a butter beer? The Wizarding World of Harry Potter will not leave you disappointed.

Back at City Walk, down towards the right hand side is another popular attraction at Universal. This section of the complex is known as “Universal Studios” where just before the entrance you will see the famous Universal globe (a great photo opportunity as everyone takes full advantage). The studios are home to the more movie themed virtual/stimulation rides, where you will actually feel like you are with the characters. Some of the first rides you will come across are Shrek 4D and Minion Mayhem (Minion Mayhem is one of the new rides from the films Despicable Me, fully equipped with its own minion army). Then depending on the direction you go you will shortly come across other popular rides like Transformers 3D , Twister, The Mummy, Men in Black, The Simpsons, ET and The Terminator. There are also scheduled times for the show stopping parades featuring many characters from favourite movies produced by the studios. Both parks at Universal are home to different characters so it might come in handy to have an information guide to hand so you can easily check out times and locations so you don't miss out.

Tips

Mobile Apps – there are many mobile applications that you can download before you plan your visit to Universal Studios. The apps allow you to have an interactive guide along with useful information such as ride waiting times, restaurants reservation options, etc…. There are many different apps available so read the information section to see which ones are right for you. Remember! The apps will only work if you have access to the internet or international roaming, be sure to check this before hand.

Waterproof Macs - if you plan on hitting the water rides at Universal make sure you remember to bring your own waterproof mac or buy one outside of Universal. If you decide last minute that you want to keep covered buying one at the store could set you back a small fortune especially if you're buying for a whole family (the little costs add up).

Fast Passes – Fast passes are great in avoiding endless queues waiting for the rides, during the summer queues can take hours to go down as this is the busiest time of the year. Although everybody has the same idea; fast passes will still make the waiting time shorter. Out of peak seasons waiting times are significantly reduced and more manageable although fast passes are still available. Fast passes are additional to your standard tickets and can be purchased before arrival or when you are there. Prices also vary.