Universal Studios Florida

by Alice Griffin

Heading to Orlando this summer? Then a trip to a theme park is a must.

Universal Studios has two fantastic theme parks, Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios. Each park has something for everyone, whether you like action-packed roller coasters, water rides, 4-D shows, or carousels. This information on the best rides, navigation tips and the must-see sites of Universal Studios will ensure you make the most of your visit to one of the world’s most exciting theme parks.

 

1. Islands of Adventure at Universal Studios

Islands of Adventure is Universals newest theme park and consists of five islands: Marvel Super Hero Island, Toon Lagoon, Jurassic Park, the Lost Continent, and Seuss Landing. Having visited Islands of Adventure numerous times while living in Orlando, I’ve accumulated some handy tips that’ll help you navigate the park and prioritise the best rides if you’re short on time.

 

The rides 

All the rides at Islands of Adventure are thrilling. If it’s thrills and spills you’re after, Marvel Island should be your first stop in the Islands of Adventure. The most worthwhile rides to go on in Marvel Super Hero Island are the Incredible Hulk Coaster and the Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man.  Lines for these rides can reach up to 90 minutes – so be sure to get there early to beat the queue. If waiting in line isn’t your thing, then you should consider purchasing an Express Pass. Express Passes allow you to skip past long lines, ensuring you get to experience all the attractions on offer.

 

Popeye and Bluto’s Bilge Rat Barges

The next island, Toon Lagoon, is home to epic water rides – the perfect way to cool down in the Florida heat. A Toon Lagoon favourite is Popeye and Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges, a white-water rapids ride that will get you soaked. Be sure to take off your shoes and place them in the bins provided before riding – there is nothing worse than walking around a theme park with soggy shoes!

 Jurassic Park

The third island at Universal Studios, Jurassic Park, is home to the uber-fun ride, the Jurassic Park River Adventure. On board, you’ll watch out for dinosaurs aplenty, but just be wary of the Raptors and T-Rex!

Fire and Ice Dragons

The fourth island at Universal Studios’ Islands of Adventure is the medieval-themed Lost Continent. Currently, the Lost Continent is being transformed into the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.  The new island is rumoured to open in late 2009.  The Lost Continent’s main attraction is Duelling Dragons, an inverted roller coaster featuring two dragon coasters known as the Fire and the Ice dragons.

Dr. Seuss

The final island at Universal Studios’ Islands of Adventure is Seuss Landing. Themed around the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss,  this island is ideal for the little ones, with tamer rides like the Cat in the Hat and the Seuss Trolley Train Ride proving popular here. Even though this island was designed for children, all ages have fun here.

 

2. Universal Studios

The Universal Studios slogan, ‘ride the movies,’ is epitomised in this buzzing film-fanatic park.

 

Revenge of the Mummy

Full of sharp turns and drops, Revenge of the Mummy is one of the latest rides at Universal Studios. The indoor coaster features scarab beetles, fire, and of course the Mummy himself!

Men in Black

A ship of alien invaders has landed in Manhattan and you must save the city. This interactive ride enrolls you as a ‘Man in Black’, giving you full MIB autonomy to laser up those alience! From one Man in Black to another – aim for the eyes!

Shrek

Shrek is a fantastic 4D show, following the story of all your favourite characters from the original Shrek movie. This 4D extravaganza attacks all your senses and  entertains thoroughly from start to finish.

Jaws

Board your boat in Amity and tour the marina that Jaws once terrorized, but beware! – rumour has it that there’s a new Great White in town. For excitement, fright, suspense and definitely a few screams, don’t miss this great ride!

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