Universal Studios in Orlando has two entertaining attractions that kids in particular will love. Universal Studios Florida, which focuses on movie-based rides and behind-the-scenes displays, and Islands of Adventure, a theme park based on cartoon characters, which features thrill rides and wonderful play areas for young children.
Universal Studios theme park has more than 40 rides, shows, and attractions, including the popular Shrek 4-D and the high-tech Revenge of the Mummy that hurtles guests through Egyptian tombs on a psychological thrill ride. Younger kids particularly enjoy A Day in the Park with Barney and Fievel's Playland in Woody Woodpecker's Kidzone.
At Islands of Adventure, thrill rides are tops with kids school-age and older. Some favorites include the Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man, which combines 3-D action and dizzying special effects with a surprise drop into total darkness; and The Incredible Hulk coaster, which goes from 0 to 40 miles per hour in two seconds flat. Younger children like to linger in Seuss Landing, which is based on the popular Dr. Seuss books. They can play in the If I Ran the Zoo water playground or enjoy a ride that transports them into the pages of The Cat in the Hat.
Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure
Address: 6000 Universal Blvd., Orlando, FL
Telphone: 407/363-8000
Hours of Operation: Hours vary
Admission: Adults, $77; children, $63
To learn more about family vacation destinations, see:
- Family Vacations: Learn about hundreds of family vacations in destinations all over North America.
- Orlando City Guide: Find out where to stay, what to do, and where to eat when you visit this magical city.
- Florida State Guide: Learn about Mobil Travel Guide-rated hotels and restaurants in Florida, as well as other recreational activities.
- Scenic Drives: For those who think that getting there is half the fun, we have compiled more than 100 of the most scenic drives throughout the country.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:Laura Sutherland is a widely acknowledged authority on family travel and has published several books on the topic, including Best Family Ski Vacations In North America and Tropical Family Vacations.
