1st timers with kids(11&2) need a plan for USF

[motoxmom]

Okay, this will be our very 1st family trip to USF...We will be driving and staying off-site at Star Island Resort. We plan to visit USF on a Thursday and getting there when park opens.

We plan on splitting up with the kids...DH and DS(11yr.)...me and DD(2 1/2)
So can some one give us a plan of attack! What should we ride first and what do ya think my DD will enjoy the most? Also, any suggestions/tips on restaurants or other things will be greatly appreciated.

I have a question about tickets(we have 1 day tiks)....We have 3 tickets...DD is free. Wondering if DS would rather do IOA ..can DH and DS go during the AM and then can I use DH's ticket and go with DS in afternoon while DH uses my ticket for USF and goes with DD? My DS heard there is a BMX and Skateboard stunt show at IOA and he's big in all that Xtreme stuff.

 

[kellymonaghan]

The IOA stunt show should be on through Labor Day, but call to check (407-363-8000).

If DS like coasters then IOA may be better. The Mummy at USF is a coaster too and pretty nifty.

For DD, I'd suggest most of the day at KidZone in USF. There's Barney, the Curious George water play area, and the animal actors show. She might also enjoy Shrek and Jimmy Neutron (in the stationary seats)

 

[Patch'sD]

Your Daughter most likely will enjoy either IOA or USF. IOA has a lot ot Kids things to Do. Camp Jurassic, Me Ship the Olive, and Suess Area all have interactive play Areas. These could be done while you or your husband are riding coasters and such. Same goes for USF with the Woody Woodpecker area. Barney and Curious George and such. At IOA your daughter could do Cat in the Hat, One Fish, Two Fish, The Carozuessel, Flying Unicorn kid Coaster and Storm Force. At USF you have Jimmy Neutron, Shrek 4D, ET, Woody woodpecker Coaster, and Nickoledian.

For same day re-entry you need to show your ticket and Hand Stamp. I don't think your plan will work. You might try to upgrade your tickets to one day two park tickets. They sell them at the gate only and they are about $ 75.00 per ticket.

I think you would have a ball at either park for the day. A tough choice but with two great parks neither choice will give you a bad result.