We, too, were first timers this year and are fanatic Disney fans. There are things we like at both parks, my DD16 and myself do prefer WDW. My DS 6 hated it the first two days because of the dark and loud rides. I kept telling him that the rides were a show they put on for us and nothing was real in them. By the end of our 5th day, he loved all the dark, loud, "scary" ride. You don't mention the ages of your kids but I'm sure they will have fun.
There were plenty of rides for the younger kids as well - Suess Landing, Jurassic Park play area at IOA and Kids Zone, Fievel's playland and Curious George water play and ball factory at US were places he really enjoyed. There are lots of rides the teens enjoyed as well - the rollercoasters, Spiderman, MIB.
We did have a very good time at Universal and are very glad we went. I'm sure we will return some day. Just try not to compare every bit of it to WDW (like I found myself doing).
We have been there several times, Our son is 18 and loves the parks. They are geared a little more for the teenage group I think. If you can afford to stay at one of their resorts it makes it nice because your "fastpass" on rides is included. There is a deal running during certain months (we are going in April) if you stay 4 or more nts. they include 2 adult tickets. If you belong to AAA go thru their website to purchase any tickets you may need as you will get a discount and can print the reciept and at the park gate present cc used and confirm. # and the tickets will print. We stayed at Portifino last time. Very nice. We are trying Royal Pacific this time. I think there is plenty to do but yes, don't compare it to Disney.
