Volcano Bay

This article is not aimed at describing the rides, but rather the basics of getting in and around the park.

Getting there:-

a) If you are staying at one of the Universal resorts hotels, you can make full use of the free buses that run to Volcano Bay from your h...

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Volcano Bay 2017

We have just come back from our first visit to Universal’s, all new, water theme park, Volcano Bay. It was my nieces 21st birthday and her request to celebrate it with all the family that were in Florida – quite a mixed bunch! As well as her and her boyfriend, there was her mum and dad, sister, me a...

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Amusing Children of Different Ages at Universal and Island of Adventures

What do you do with a Harry Potter mad child and a toddler at the same time. Well that happened to us last year so the family had to split in two. The one with the toddler had to enjoy hours of Doctor Seuss, Camp Jurassic and the kiddies playground. Our toddler was almost 3 and spent hours running t...

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What to do with different age children at Universal Studios - part 2

On your second Day, start at Universal Studios and again split up and meet at lunch time to swap over. But first, both children will love Shrek the 4D movie. (So will the adults). Our toddler squealed with delight when the seats moved when Shrek and Fiona’s carriage moved. The toddler will love E. T...

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Diagon Alley at Universal Studios

The second of Universal’s themed Harry Potter lands opened just before we visited our villa this summer and we couldn’t wait to see it! We purchased unlimited two park tickets as we had heard queues could be long and we wanted to be able to ride on the new ‘steam train’ between parks.

...

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Men in Black at Universal

One of my Favourite Rides in Universal Studio.

I sat down at my desk today and thought “what is the best show or ride in Universal studios” at first writing such an article seems easy but then I started to think what the best ride in universal studios is really, it’s a difficult decis...

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Universal Studios

Universal Studios Park Review at Orlando Florida.

The theme park Universal Studios is a must visit if you are on vacation in Florida. It is joined with Islands of Adventure, and their motto of “Two incredible theme parks, too incredible to miss” is absolutely true. The parks are suit...

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Harry Potter - Universal Studios Orlando

One of the newest rides in Universal Studios Islands of Adventure is the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Build on the back of the huge movie and book franchise, the ride is one of the most impressive and popular in Florida.

No expense seems to have been spared to make the ride as au...

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Men in Black - Universal Studios

Universal Studios in Orlando is located around 30 minutes from the short term rental properties and communities in Davenport and Clearmont. The park is joined by its sister park Islands of Adventure and forms part of the ‘Universal Studios Resort’ complex.

Universal Studios is aimed at the w...

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What’s so great about Universal Studios Part 4

Disaster; originally this was Earthquake based on the blockbuster film from the 70’s which starred some very big names such as Charlton Heston and William Holden, the show is essentially the same as it was but with another name. It shows you how many of the movie special effects were made and filmed...

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What’s so great about Universal Studios Part 5

So we have just done the Men in Black “Alien Attack” ride which is really great fun, it’s only a short walk to the next ride “The Simpsons Ride” now I can remember this ride when it was the “Back to the Future Ride”, yes I know I am starting to show my age now but I loved this ride then riding in th...

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What’s so great about Universal Studios Part 6

OK so we just spent some time in play area of Curious George goes to the Town and now dads soaked and battered from all the foam balls that the kids have hurled at you in Big Yellow Hats Ball Factory
Next is a ride on Woody Woodpeckers Nuthouse roller Coaster thought Woodys nut factory, woodys ...

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Our Last Visit to Islands of Adventure Part 1

As we visit our villa at least once a year, and my parents who are retired have the luxury of going twice, we tend to have multi day passes for all the Parks. When the girls were younger we tended to spend the majority of our days at Universal Studios but as they are now teenagers we tend to spend a...

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Our Last Visit to Islands of Adenture Part 2

After enjoying chicken and fries at the Fire Eaters Grill the adults in our party went over to look at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. This attraction opened recently on some vacant land plus some land previously home to a part of the Lost Continent.

Ever since this has opened the w...

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Mini Golf at Universal.

Did you know that there is mini golf at Universal? well, there is!

This new facility has opened under the escalators and has 2 themed courses to choose from (or you can play both for a discounted price) Naturally, the themimg for both of these courses are based on what Universal is famou...

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Halloween at Universal.

At the time of my writing this article, there are only 9 weeks to go before the first Universal Halloween Horror Night.

If you have never been to one of these spectacular nights then you must go. If you have been then you will know how awesome they are but did you also know that they cha...

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The new parade at Universal.

2012 seems to be shaping up to be an epic year for new attractions in the parks and I have another one to tell you about.

Coming up trumps this time are our good friends at Universal.

A good parade always punctuates a day in a park nicely and I can now tell you that Universal...

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My favourite Universal experience.

So having thought long and hard about my favourite Disney experience I turned my attention to Universal Studios.

The first park opened way back in 1990 and I well remember seeing it built. This was followed by Islands of Adventure which has now overtaken the original park in terms of vis...

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Enjoying City Walk

When we go to Citywalk in the evening we usually go early so we have a leisurely stroll along the front between Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure first.

When the girls were younger on the hot summer evenings they used to love to run in and out of the water fountains that sprout ...

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Spiderman the Ride - Universal Studios Islands of Adventure

The Amazing Adventures of Spiderman is located in Universal Islands of Adventure. The ride is based on a state of the art 4-D experience that totally immerses the riders in a visual and physical onslaught from start to finish. If you have not been on this ride before I would seriously recommend it! ...

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Universal Studios - Rip Ride Rockit

One of my favourite parks in the whole of Orlando is Universal Studios. Over the years the park has evolved and morphed into one of the Worlds finest theme parks for the whole family. Key to their success is their constant upgrade of the older rides and the best use of their available space. The fir...

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One of my Favourite Rides in Universal Studio

I sat down at my desk today and thought “ what is the best show or ride in Universal studios” at first writing such an articles seems easy but then I started to think what the best ride in universal studios is really

Jaws has to be one of the best although it’s looking pretty old by now and...

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Simpsons Ride - Universal Studios Florida

The Simpsons Ride is located at the far side of Universal Studios in Florida. The ride replaces the old Back to the future ride which was a massive favourite with the public, but lost some appeal due to the younger audience not having watched the old film. It was decided that due to their popularity...

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Poseidon’s Fury At Universal IOA

As you wind your way around the Islands of Adventure at Universal Studios you will come across a hidden gem ( tucked away behind the talking tree that squirts water over everyone) is Poseidon’s Temple
This is a very impressive looking setting looking like a proper full size temple on the outsid...

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Jurassic Park River Adventure at Universal

This ride comes with a warning “You may get wet” and let me say you probably will get wet a little but it’s perfect for a very hot day

Sometimes this ride gets very busy and the queues can be quite long for it so it’s best to time your visit either first thing or around three or 4 o’clock ...

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Toon Lagoon at Universals IOA

Toon Lagoon is a great area within the islands of adventure which has a couple of really fantastic water rides such as Popeye and Blutos “Bilge Rat Barges” and Dudley Doo Rights ” Rip Saw Falls”

Popeye and Blutos Bilge Rat Barges is a absolutely fabulous ride, it is without doubt the best w...

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Jaws Ride at Universal Studio

The Jaws ride must have been running for 20 years now at the Universal Studios Park in Orlando and rumours are that it will close its doors in 2012 for good to make way for a new attraction so visit this attraction soon if you get the chance.

I have visited this attraction many many times and...

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Jaws at Universal Studios

If you have seen the film ‘Jaws’, and in all honesty who hasn’t, you will want to take this ride if only to see how the film has been adapted into a theme park attraction.

Jaws is a five minute water ride, so if you don’t want to get wet you might want to give this one a miss. However, g...

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Islands of Adventure - Universal Orlando

Islands of Adventure at Universal, Orlando is in my view the best park in Florida. It was built in 1999 right next door to Universal Studios to cater for the slightly older guests who like a little more thrill rides as well as keeping the younger ones entertained.

If you are after an actio...

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Enjoying Jaws at Universal Studios

No visit to Universal Studios is complete for our family without going on the boat ride Jaws. No matter how many times we go on this ride although it is a little bit cheesy we always manage to scream a little as well as laugh a lot. I believe it originally opened in the early 1990s and although in i...

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Early Morning at Universal

As with the other parks we find it is always best to arrive as close to opening time as possible, this gives you the advantage on getting on the popular rides while the Parks are still relatively quiet.

You have a choice of how to plan this. Some families decide that as they are likely t...

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Enjoying Kidzone at Universal Studios

If you have younger children try to leave plenty of time to go around Kidzone at Universal Studios. If possible try to go to this part of the Park early in the day as it does get very busy and there is nothing worse than having to queue in the heat with tired children.

Even as the girls ...

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Universal Halloween Nights.

Over the years, I have found that many of my guests do not realise that the Universal Halloween nights run through september and october (on selected nights)

Well they most certainly do and at the foot of this article I will list the dates.

If the Disney Halloween nights are f...

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The Simpson Ride at Universal

The Simpson Ride at Universal

Many of us regular visitors at Florida will remember the old back to the future ride at Universal Studio’s ride, although an old ride it was one of the best rides there in my opinion

In line with more current trends Universal decided to update the...

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A Review Of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

As a very dedicated but somewhat disillusioned Potterphile, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter had a lot to live up to in my mind.

When I think of Harry Potter, I remember what I fell in love with when I first began the series. Hogwarts and its many quirks. Hogsmeade, butterbeer, Zonko’s,...

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Universal Meal Deal

The Universal Orlando Resort offers visitors a very economical dining option called the Universal Meal Deal. You can purchase a wrist band at any point throughout the day at the participating restaurants as well as dining reservation booths and certain merchandise stores throughout the parks. If you...

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Universal..........a history.

The Universal Studios theme park opened its gates to the public in 1990 aftre 8 long years of meticulous planning.

Of course, there already was a Universal Studios theme park in Hollywood that had grown out of studio tours.

The rivalry between Disney and Uuniversa...

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Islands of Adventure.............a history.

Islands of Adventure is the 2nd theme park in Florida owned by Universal. This park opened in 1999.

However, the concept for Islands of Adventure was in the planning even before Universal Studios opened.

Jay Stein was the recreation chief at the time and he had a ro...

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Harry Potter...Not a fan?

I have never read a Harry Potter book or seen a Harry Potter film; there I have said it! But I bet there are many of you out there who could say the same.

So when we visited Universal recently I wondered how much enjoyment I would get out of it.

Of course no one who reads a n...

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After Dragons Challenge at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

By the exit of Dragons Challenge there is a shelter with seats, so you are able to protect and cool down from the sun. There are souvenir shops up the village full of Harry Potter merchandise. You can even buy the school Uniform. On the right side of the street there is an animal shop and then Olliv...

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As I finish my day at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

As you move on you can see a ride which is called Flight of the Hippogriff, which used to been the Flying Unicorn. This has changed a lot as there is a new train – a hippogriff as its body and matching scenery. Queuing times vary around 10-15 minutes. As you queue Hagrid will give you a talk about t...

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The Forgotten Universal Studios.

With all the excitement over the new Harry Potter feature at Universal’s Island of Adventure, it may be easy to forget all the great rides there are at the Universal Studios. I should suspect a great many people head straight for Harry Potter when they arrive in Orlando and then spend the rest of th...

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Mardi Gras Concerts February 2011

Are you going to visit Orlando February, March or April? If so then you may be lucky enough to be able to visit Universal Studios and celebrate Mardi Gras. This amazing event is the largest Mardi Gras celebration outside of New Orleans. The streets of Universal Studios, Orlando are where it takes pl...

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Mardi Gras Concerts – Universal Studios March and April 2011

This series of concerts takes place in Universal Studios, Orlando as part of the Mardi Gras celebrations.

March 5th
Lynyrd Skynyrd
This American rock band was formed in Jacksonville Florida in 1964, and they became prominent in 1973. Sadly, three members of the band died in a ‘...

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Seuss Landing at Islands of Adventure

Keeping very young children entertained and occupied can be a trial at the best of times and if you start to run out of ideas head for the Islands of Adventure at Universal. Inside you will find Seuss Landing, over ten acres designed almost entirely for the youngest members of the family, although t...

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The World of Harry Potter

I have to hold my hand up and tell you I know very little about Harry Potter. I haven’t read any of the books. I have watched some of the Harry Potter movies. So I did have a general idea who Harry Potter was and what was involved in his world.

But even so I was very excited when Univers...

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Toon Lagoon at Islands of Adventure

At Islands of Adventures Toon Lagoon, there are more than 150 cartoon characters that inhabit this colourful part of the park. As you stroll down Comic Strip Lane you will see Betty Boop, Hagar the Horrible and Krazy Kat to name just a few of the famous residents.

There are some great wa...

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Jurassic Park River Adventure – Islands of Adventure

I usually give the water rides at miss at theme parks, one because I’m a whimp and don’t want to get soaked and secondly because I don’t want to spend the rest of my day walking around dripping wet.

However, my daughter convinced me that this was one water ride where I would not get a so...

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Overview Of Islands of Adventure

Twinned with Universal Studios, the Island of Adventures is my favourite Orlando theme park. The recent addition of the Harry Potter Wizarding World has cemented its' popularity in my child-like mind.

In the world before Harry, the Islands had more than enough to keep me occupied and enterta...

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NBA City – Universal

Those of you who love basketball, will enjoy NBA City, established in 1999 and which is situated between Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios. As you approach, you can see a huge 30 feet+ statue of the NBA logoman. If you are feeling daring you can shoot some hoops outside to win a prize or li...

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The Wizarding World of Harry Potter (11)

Headed along I4 to go to Islands of Adventure and experience the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Got ourselves parked in the Jaws area car park and wandered down to the park entrance. The crowds were not bad at all, probably because it was a bit chilly by local standards that day. We decide...

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Tips when visiting Universal

I thought you may like a couple of general tips that apply to both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure which could be of help and interest to you before you actually ‘try the parks’.

Universal Orlando makes a special effort for its disabled guests, in fact they employ many disabled st...

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The Blue Man Group

Having seen the Blue Man Group in New York, we decided to check out the local performance at Universal Orlando Resort.

The show is housed at The Sharp Aquos Theater which is situated between the 2 Universal theme parks, adjacent to the Hard Rock Café.

Having purchased our tickets onl...

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Ride Restrictions for Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure – updated October 2010

Every ride and attraction within these two theme parks has a sign at the entrance that lists the height requirements for the ride and also warnings about certain medical conditions

Children under 48' (1. 22 meters) must be accompanied by an adult at all times and on all attractions.

...

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Visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

We were all very excited when what seems like ages ago Universal announced it was going to include the attraction of Harry Potter at its Island of Adventure Theme Park. In fact it is only three years since Universal announced this addition of a “Theme Park within a Theme Park”. Now in 2010 we intend...

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The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter opened in June 2010 in Islands Of Adventure. During our recent holiday we were able to experience this new addition to the theme park.

The village is quite small and compact and due to it’s popularity can be very crowded. A sign at the entrance reads “Plea...

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Popeye and Blutos Raft Ride

Popeye and Bluto’s Raft Ride at Universal Islands of Adventure Florida

Do you want to get wet? No, I mean really, really wet. This ride is the most fun that you can ever experience, the rafts sit around ten people who strap in with lap seat belts before the raft is released, beware, put all c...

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Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey

Hogwarts: the one place that pretty much every child secretly hopes he or she will be invited to attend when the heralded eleventh birthday rolls around.

Unfortunately, I did not receive my green-inked letter, and to my utter astonishment and very real disappointment, I have never met anyone...

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The Blue Man Group Reviewed

Ever since James Cameron’s highly acclaimed movie ' Avatar' was released, at least a few mentions of floating mountains, Pocahontas, and blue people are going to crop up.

So, naturally, as I was strolling through City Walk at Universal, Orlando on my way to see the Blue Man Group, I had alie...

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The Wizarding world of Harry Potter

The Wizarding world of Harry Potter

We were lucky enough to be offered the chance to go to universal studio this week on Monday for a preview of the new attraction of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

As you walk through the archway that leads to Hogsmeade village the first thing tha...

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Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey - Rumours and Facts

FACT: This Thursday (25 March), Universal will be announcing the opening date for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

RUMOUR: At the same time, Universal will also announce more details about the new ride, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.

In advance of this, I thought it woul...

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A preview of The Harry Potter park.

As I write there has been no date fixed for the opening of the new Harry Potter park, but all signs are pointing to spring 2010.

This long awaited park stand in the grounds of the Universal Islands of Adventure and has been styled by the artists and directors of the Harry Potter films. These...

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Universal Studios Tips for your day

A few tips for enjoying your day. We had a great time at Universal studios, parking (February 2010) was $14 and you parked in a multi story car park which was quite near to the parks and had “travelators” to speed up your journey there. We had not been to Universal Studios for about 8 years and had ...

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Mardi Gras Universal Studios

If you are going on holiday to Orlando between February and April, a ‘not to be missed’ night out is the Mardi Gras nights at Universal Studios.

In 2009 the theme was ‘Let the Music Move You’, and featured concerts from various bands including KC and the Sunshine Band, Frankie Valli and the ...

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Toddlers at Hollywood Studios

Hollywood Studios is popular with little ones as they get to meet friends from the popular ' Playhouse Disney' Channel. At ' Playhouse Disney Live on Stage' toddlers get to dance and sing along with Bear In The Big Blue House and his friends, plus Rolie Polie Olie, Stanley and friends from the Book ...

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Osborne Family Spectacle of Lights

If you are ever lucky enough to be in Orlando during the Christmas holiday season this is one attraction that you definitely must not miss! Commencing after Thanksgiving until just after the New Year this magnificent spectacle of lights is featured in Walt Disney World’s theme park Hollywood Studios...

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Places for Snacks at Hollywood Studios

There always seems so much choice so I thought I would write about some of the places we have had a drink, snack or meal at Hollywood Studios.

At the ABC Commissary you will find and Art Deco themed counter service restaurant with the Posters paying homage to the entertainment industry. It h...

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Rip Ride Rockit

Universal has a new roller coaster ride called Rip Ride Rockit, which had a soft opening while we were in Florida in August 2009, but on our August trips to Universal, either the ride was closed, or the queues were two hours plus long, and we did not manage to ride. However, we were determined to ri...

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Universal Studios vs Disney

I often get asked is Universal Studios better than the Disney parks?

Normally people who are on their very first visits ask this because they are trying to decide whether to visit just the Disney parks or both Disney and Universal Studios as well

This is a difficult question to answer...

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Toon Lagoon at Universal studios

Toon Lagoon! Well this is an area dominated by water rides I think that there is a clue in the name, another clue would be the signs that are dotted around the area saying ' You WILL get Wet! ! '

When you venture into the Toon Lagoon area you will recognise the characters from the cartoons w...

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DRAGON CHALLENGE - UNIVERSAL ISLANDS OF ADVENTURE

There are many good rollercoaster’s in Orlando, some being up there with the World’s best. Dragon Challenge at Universal Studios Islands of Adventure is well renowned as being one of the best in Florida and in the US. The ride is situated in the back end of Islands of Adventure in the lost continent...

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Visit Universal for Half a Day

If you have visited Universal Studios before you will know that visitors to both Universal Orlando theme Parks park in the same parking garage, then walk through CityWalk on their way into the Parks. You need to leave at least half an hour (an hour in the summer) to park and walk to either Park gate...

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Eating on a Budget – Hollywood Studios

I suppose planning your meal stops when visiting a theme park is hardly high on the agenda but, for families with children or those on a budget, it is worth considering what options are available.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios is well represented by a varied choice of eateries ranging from full...

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Enjoy a Morning at Hollywood Studios

If you get up early enough it is possible to enjoy a morning at Hollywood Studios concluding with lunch at the Hollywood Brown Derby. However we always make reservations for lunch prior to our visit to the Studios as this is a popular restaurant.

Be sure the check the Park’s opening times be...

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Islands of Adventure Information

For those that have not been to Islands of Adventure before I hope you will find this information useful.

I feel you need a full day here because there is so much to see and do that you will be occupied non stop from park open to park close. In the high season when the queues are longer you ...

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Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit

On our last visit to Orlando in Sep of 2009 we were looking keeping our eyes peeled for the start of the new ride to hit Orlando’s Universal Studios, Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit. This new ride can be seen from the entrance to Orlando (right behind the Hard Rock café) and is very impressive indeed.

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Sneak Preview - The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Hogsmeade Shops and Restaurants

As you enter the Wizarding World of Harry Potter through the iconic archway, the first thing you will see (on your right) will be Hogsmeade Station. The distinctive red steam locomotive (bellowing out steam) whistles to announce your entry into this magical world.

Just past Hogsmeade Station...

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Sneak Preview - The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Rides and Attractions

Just past Hogsmeade Village sits the Dragon Challenge, a ride based around the first task of the Tri Wizard Challenge. You must make your choice to challenge either the Chinese Fireball or the Hungarian Horntail dragon. Only the bravest, or most foolhardy, wizards will take the challenge a second ti...

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Universal Studios Revisited

Many years ago, before we started our family, my husband and I enjoyed a visit to Universal Studios. We had a great day enjoying attractions such as Back to the Future, King Kong and Jaws. Though we have been to the Orlando area several times since then, we had never returned to Universal Studios be...

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Islands of Adventure for little kids

Whilst Disney is brilliant for little kids Islands of Adventure tends to cater more to the older kids and teens, however if you are taking younger ones to Islands of Adventure don’t despair - there is still plenty to keep them amused. You just need to do a little research before you go to make sure ...

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Universal Studios for Little Kids

Whilst Disney is brilliant for little kids Universal Studios tends to cater more to the older kids and teens, however if you are taking younger ones to Universal Studios don’t despair there is still plenty to keep them amused you just need to do a little research before you go to make sure the whole...

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Best and Worst Rides at Universal Studios

When time is tight it is sometimes worth knowing which rides are worth queuing up for and which are not.

This can depend a lot on the ages of your party obviously. Some rides all ages will enjoy, some are only for older children and adults and then there are the rides which are really only s...

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Jurassic Park IOA

It was not until I visited Islands of Adventure with my brother and niece that I really appreciated this park. This was in early December and the parks were quite due to most people rushing around getting ready for Christmas. On my previous visits this park had been very crowded with long queues for...

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The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal

There has been much anticipation and speculation about the forthcoming ‘Wizarding World of Harry Potter’ which is due to open at Universal in the not too distant future, and it will be the first themed environment based on JK Rowlings’ most popular books. It is expected to be a theme park within a t...

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Mummys Revenge

We had not been on this ride before but now my niece had reached 10 she was beginning to become a little more daring with her choice of rides. The park was due to close in half an hour and the wait was only 10mins (the wait time for this ride didn’t seem to be listed on the information boards howeve...

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All about Universal Studios Florida

Universal Studios in Florida started life in June 1990 inspired by its fellow location in California, namely Universal Studios Hollywood. From the very beginning it was decided that the facility take on the role of both theme park and studio ‘all in one’. This differs from the California venue in as...

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All about Universal’s Islands of Adventure Florida

Universal’s Islands of Adventure opened in May 1999 as part of a large expansion to the existing Studios. This was part of a large plan to turn the whole facility into a resort complex with hotels, restaurants and shops. The theme of the park is portrayed as an exploration from the main port (Entran...

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New Roller Coaster at Universal Studios

A visit to Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure in Orlando is always an exciting prospect as these parks have some of the wildest roller coasters to be found in Florida. My children love to experience ' The Hulk' and ' Duelling Dragons' , but soon it will be even better when Universal open thei...

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Stormforce Islands of Adventure

Many of the rides at Marvel Super Hero Island are a little scary for younger children however you will find that Storm Force Accelatron is the most kid-friendly attraction on this island.

Storm Force Accelatron is located between The Incredible Hulk Coaster and Cafe 4 and can be easily misse...

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Universal Studios - City Walk

Universal City Walk is located at the entrance to Universal and Universal Island of Adventure. The area is made up of many restaurants, shops, clubs and a large cinema complex.

To access Universal City walk is free apart from the car parking fee of $11, however if you are already in one of t...

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TERMINATOR 3-D: Universal Studios

Terminator 2: 3-D ride is located in Universal Studios, Orlando Florida. The ride is based on the time between T2 and T3 films, where John Connor has to try and defeat Cyberdine Systems and stop the end of the World.

The ride is a mix of 3-D effects and stage show that gives the audience the...

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San Francisco - Universal

In the real world San Francisco and Amity are two separate areas located on opposite sides of USA. However in Universal Studios they are combined together in one large themed section, located between New York and World Expo. They are both on the Universal Lagoon.

The Lagoon is a good spot to...

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Flying Unicorn - IOA

As the Flying Unicorn, which is in the Lost Continent, is a little out of the way, be sure you look to your right just before crossing the bridge to enter Jurassic Park. It is located just pass Dueling Dragons.

If you have a Universal Express Pass you may want to take advantage of it here. W...

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The Incredible Hulk

This unmistakable green snaking shape can be seen for miles around Islands of Adventure. It is only when you enter Marvel Super Hero Island, to your left after you pass through Port of Entry the gateway to Islands of Adventure, that you realize its sheer scale and distinctive sound.

The Incr...

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Twister - Universal Studios

This attraction is located on 57th Street, next to the BoneYard.

There are no height restrictions for this show and although the show lasts approx 20 minutes the tornado scene takes only 3 minutes from beginning to end.

If you are in a wheelchair you may remain seated. However this s...

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Toon Lagoon - IOA

We usually combine a visit to Islands of Adventure with a visit to Universal Studios and we find we often split up with older children and adults going on the scarier rides whilst the younger ones do the kiddy things with their Grandparents.

You can get Universal Express Passes for certain r...

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PRODUCTION CENTRAL -UNIVERSAL STUDIOS

Universal Orlando Resort started with the Universal Studios Florida Theme Park in June 1990, known by many back in those days as " the little park that couldn’ t. " It did not have a good opening or good press and spent many years regrouping and changing its attractions. These days i...

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THE LOST CONTINENT -ISLANDS OF ADVENTURE

When you enter the Lost Continent you will realise it is not a very " theme park" like area as you travel through the three mystical sections.

The first section, when entering from Seuss Landing, is the Lost City, followed by Sindbad Village and Merlin Woods. Be on the look out for...

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The Amazing Adventures of Spiderman at Universal Studios

The Amazing Adventure of Spiderman can be found in Marvel Super Hero Island at Universal’s Islands of Adventure. This 3-D ride is actually the first attraction in the history of theme parks to combine moving vehicles with specially filmed 3-D action.

You will find yourself touring the Daily ...

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Universal City Walk

Universal City Walk is Universal’s answer to Downtown Disney and Disney’s Boardwalk. It too is set around a lake and has a mix of restaurants, clubs, cinema screens and shops.

Unlike its Disney rivals though it’s not located in a separate area away from its parks but is the gateway to Univer...

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Shrek Quiz - How much do you know about Shrek?

One of the first things I do when I visit Universal Studios, Orlando, Florida is make straight for Shrek-4D, that fantastic attraction which tells the amusing story of Shrek’s honeymoon adventure. It really is an unmissable show, as not only do you watch an original 3-D movie, but you can feel, hear...

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Men in Black (MIB) at Universal Studios

There are lots of great rides in the Universal Studio’s but for me one of the best has to be the Men in Black ride. I can remember when they were building this ride at the height of the Men in black feature films popularity

It is one of the most popular by far and I would suggest that you arr...

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What to do at City Walk

City Walk at Universal is a fabulous place to do some shopping and having older teenagers we often find that they want to spend more time in the parks than us, so while they’re getting their fix of the high speed roller coasters, shows and attractions in Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios we...

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Halloween Horror Night - Universal

If you are in Florida in late September or October and you do not mind being scared go to the Halloween Horror Nights at Universal.

This is a separate ticket event and is not included in your park admission ticket or pass. No costumes, make-up or masks will be allowed in the park. Guests are...

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Universal Studios - New York (3)

If ever you have visited New York or perhaps even just dreamed of doing so you are sure to enjoy a few hours in New York at Universal. Here you will see replicas of The Palace Theatre, NY Library and other famous Big Apple landmarks.

If you are lucky and you time your vacation visit right, y...

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Universal Studios - A Short Guide

Whenever I go to America my one of my favourite places to go to is Universal Studios (right next to another park called Islands of Adventure). I like going there because it has great rides such as the E. T. ride where you fly through space on a bike and visit E. T’s home planet. I also like going on...

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Islands of Adventure

Whenever I go to America, one of the things that I most enjoy is going to the theme parks. I love doing them because it brings unimaginable things to life. It takes you on an adventure of your own. One of the parks I most enjoy going to is Islands of Adventure. At first it seems like a hyper rollerc...

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Wheelchair user's Guide to IOA

I am not the world’s most adventurous thrill seeker so this by all means is not a comprehensive list. I hope another wheelchair user more adventurous than I am will add to this.

First of all –if arriving by car –do bring your disabled blue badge with you. The authorities do recognise our UK ...

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Wheelchair User's guide to Universal Studios

I am not the world’s most adventurous thrill seeker so this by all means is not a comprehensive list. I hope another wheelchair user more adventurous than I am will add to this.

First of all – if arriving by car – do bring your disabled blue badge with you. The authorities do recognise our ...

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Shows at Universal Orlando

Universal is probably best known for its rides/attractions based on recognisable movies. However between the two theme parks, there are shows that have maybe a little less publicity, but which certainly give the parks plenty of character. While not competing with the live entertainment offered by Ci...

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Universal’s Mardi Gras 2007

This year Universal are running their Mardi Gras extravaganza from the 2nd February – 14th April

There are several ways to enjoy and join in the festivities…

Firstly there are the concerts – these take place in the park.

Feb 3rd 8.30pm - Los Lonely Boys

Feb 10th 8.30pm –...

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Citywalk At Universal

Citywalk is located between Universal two theme Parks, Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. It is a 30 acre entertainment complex! A lot of the shops and restaurants are open all day, however it really comes into it’s own during the evening.

There is the AMC movie theatre with 20 wall...

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Fear Factory - Halloween Horror Night at Universal

After 14 years plus, our daughter had finally reached the age when Mickey’s Halloween celebration was not going to cut it, and it was time to venture into the horror of Horror Nights, Universal’s Halloween Horror Night – Sweet Sixteen.

We had done our research, and only realised as we w...

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Universal Halloween Horror Nights

Having been to Universal Studios Orlando Halloween Horror nights many years ago it was great to hear from friends and family who have just visited that Universal have made this attraction even better. From all reports it has become far scarier!

Over the years this event has become part and pa...

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Shrek 4-D

Shrek 4-D is, in my opinion, one of the best attractions at Universal Studios – actually it might actually be my very favourite. The first Shrek film is one of my all-time favourite films – I can watch it over and over and still find it funny – so when I first went to this attraction I was hoping th...

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E.T Adventure

Have you every wondered what it would be like to ride a bicycle through the sky? At E.T. Adventure in Universal Studios you can give it a go!

The ride is based on the hugely successful Steven Spielberg film and is very, popular. Be prepared for very long queues when the park is very busy and ...

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Universal Studios, a Dad's view

The alternative to the Disney parks are the excellent Universal Studios 2 parks, the Universal Studios park is one of my favourites because it has in my view more grown up rides than some of the Disney parks.

The Universal Studios Park was the original and only Universal Park until 1999 when ...

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More about Universal Studios

Men in Black Alien Attack is one of my favourite if not my favourite ride in Universal Studios, not only do the adults like this ride but the kids will also. You undergo training which includes riding through an alien strewn town, but best of all you have an alien zapping gun and you can shoot as ma...

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City Walk

Our evening usually City Walk, which is situated between Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, is a great place for an adult’s night out. We usually take the I4 and follow the Universal Studio signs.

starts with a gentle stroll through the shops. My Father always visits Cigarz which spe...

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Universal Studios

Universal Studios in Orlando is a theme park not to be missed. Situated next to Islands Of Adventure it opened in 1990 and has over 110 acres, sub-divided into six main areas and set around a huge man made lagoon.

Here are a few of the favourite rides.

Shrek 4D
I...

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We all love IOA, but every trip? Well maybe?

We don’t tend to go to Islands Of Adventure (IOA) on each visit to Orlando , this was likely because we are real Disney fans and our daughter was still growing up!! But on our recent visit, we just didn’t fit everything thing at all (I think we take things slower these days!!) and as we now travel w...

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Universal Orlando – Part 1

Universal Studios, Orlando’s original movie theme park, Islands of Adventure and CityWalk, a dining and shopping as well as nightclub complex, are bordered by residential neighbourhoods near International Drive, Orlando, Florida. In an expansive but accessible complex with two parking areas it’s eas...

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Universal Orlando – Part 2

San Francisco Amity combines two sets. One part is the wharves and warehouses of San Francisco’s embarcadero and Fisherman’s Wharf districts with cable car tracks and the red brick Ghirandelli chocolate factory while the other is the New England fishing village terrorized by the shark in ‘Jaws’.

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Universal Orlando – Part 3

Animal Planet Live is an Ark of animals. A racoon opens the show and Lassie, the well loved collie, makes an appearance. You’ll also see Gizmo, the parrot and other animals. It’s a fun show suited to young children.

‘Curious George Goes to Town’ is a no line, no waiting interactive aqua play ...

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Universal Studios

Having not been to Universal for well over 3 years now, I was pleasantly surprised that they have updated some of the park and included even more rides and attractions than before. Some of the new rides have replaced the older ones (King Kong), but some of them have been built on new areas. Hopefull...

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Universal Citywalk (3)

Located just in between Universal and Universal Islands of adventure is Universal Citywalk. Situated around a large lake, Universal Citywalk is an ideal place to arrive and meet people, having many shops, restaurants and things to do.

Many people who visit Orlando Universal and Universal Isl...

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Universal CityWalk

Disney and Universal are two of the major reasons for planning a vacation to Central Florida (as well, as the weather, shopping, golf, restaurants etc). For several years Disney were able to offer evening entertainment outside their theme parks through the clubs, shops and restaurants at Downtown Di...

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The Hulk (at Islands of Adventure)

As you drive up to Universal Islands of Adventure you will catch yourself mulling over the thought of a roller coaster with 7 inversions. That’s enough to come in at 5th place on the list of the world’s greatest coasters. You’ve done the research, and still can’t decide if you believe what people ha...

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Universal City Walk

Situated at the approach to the Universal Parks this is a great place that is really jumping in the evenings.

You make your way from the car park, along the moving walkways, towards City Walk. There is a whole range of shops and restaurants awaiting you. Everything from coffee or ice cream to...

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Universal Studios - World Expo

World Expo creates the atmosphere of a World's Fair Exposition and is home to some of Universal Studios most popular attractions, Back to the Future and Men in Black - Alien Attack. This area has just these 2 rides, is pretty small and lacks the theme element of the other areas.

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Universal Studios - Kidzone

Here is a guide to each area of Universal Studios with info on the rides, restaurants and shops in each “land”

The different areas consist of:

• Production Central
• New York
• San Francisco/Amity
• World Expo
• Kidzone
• Hollywood

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Universal Studios - Production Central

Production Central is your first stop once you enter the Park and where Universal really showcases the Studios part of its name. Hosting a number of programs for the American Health Network cable channel, as well as other films, television shows and commercials, Production Central is home to the ...

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Universal Studios - New York

Here is a guide to each area of Universal Studios with info on the rides, restaurants and shops in each “land”

The different areas consist of:

• Production Central
• New York
• San Francisco/Amity
• World Expo
• Kidzone
• Hollywood

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Universal Studios - Ride the Movies!!

Universal Studios – Ride the Movies!!

Universal Studios is one of our “Must do’s” on every visit. Being a film buff I never tire of reliving some of my favourite films either as a ride or a show. But even if you aren’t a film fanatic there is plenty to enjoy at this working film studio.
<...

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Best Water Ride Ever - Popeye

I love water rides and this one at Island of Adventure is the best of the bunch by far, they say you will get soak they lied…………you will get soaked through to the skin but is such brilliant fun.

The ride is based upon Popeye and his rivalry with his arch enemy Bluto. Each raft holds 12 peopl...

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Islands of Adventure at Universal Studios

This is the second Universal Studios Park to open in Orlando and is the thrill seekers Mecca in Orlando. Situated adjacent to the original Universal you park at the same place and walk through City Walk to reach both parks.

Once through the gates get yourself a park map and work out the rides...

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Universal Studios - San Francisco/Amity

Here is a guide to each area of Universal Studios with info on the rides, restaurants and shops in each “land”

The different areas consist of:
Production Central
New York
San Francisco/Amity
World Expo
Kidzone
Hollywood

San Francisco is the place to experience ...

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Dr Doom - A Cowards View

Dr Doom’s – Freefall a cowards view.

On our last trip to Orlando we finally managed to get to Island’s of Adventure (IoA) and what a brilliant attraction it is.

At this point I must confess, the reason it has taken so long to get to IoA is the fact I’m a coward and hate “Roller Coast...

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‘Must do’s’ at Universal’s Islands of Adventure

As villa owners our guests often ask us what are the ‘must do’ attractions at each of the parks. Obviously this does depend on the age and make up of your party however these are our ‘must do’ rides and attractions at Universal’s Islands of Adventure.

Many people mistakenly believe that if y...

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Stress Free at Universal's Islands of Adventure, Orlando

Great ideas for a stress free and fun day at Universal Studio s Islands of Adventure.

For families with older children and teenagers, we think we have found an excellent formula to get the most out of this theme park without too much queuing.
Instead of arriving at 9.00 when everyone i...

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Halloween at Islands of Adventure

October 2002 was the first time that Universal had held their special ‘Halloween nights’ at Islands of Adventure, prior to this it had always been held in the Universal Studios park.  The park closes for the day at approximately 5pm to allow the staff time to prepare for the events of ...

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