Differences between Universal in CA vs Orlando?

[buzzrelly]

Hello-I have never been to either place, but my kids went to CA last year and visited Universal there. We are planning on going to Universal/IOA in April 2015. The other day we were visiting Six Flags New England and while we were walking in I started talking about how excited I am to be going to Universal next April and the kids told me that Universal is more like Six Flags than like Disney.
Ack! Is this true? I really dislike Six Flags, the only reason I go is because it is close and the kids have season passes that their dad bought for them. I mostly end up sitting on a bench while they ride the roller coasters.

I know it isn't going to be exactly like Disney, but I was hoping for more of a Disney feeling than a Six Flags feeling...KWIM? I am wondering if the park in CA is terribly different than the one in Orlando?

We are planning on 3 days, staying on site at RPR. Thanks!

 

[Lynne G]

For one, the California one is smaller, the citywalk has different stores/restaurants, and there are rides and shows that are different than in Orlando. Orlando has 2 parks, IOA and US, so there's alot more to do and there's more shows to see.

As for comparisons, I would not compare. Disney is generally geared to all family enjoying. My teens find it too kiddy most of the time. Universal definitely has more thrill rides and coasters, but if you take your time, there is plenty to do that does not involve coasters, and the potter areas are so well themed that you think you were in the movies.

Take time and look at Universal's website. That will get you a better idea of the rides and all that is available.

 

[RMulieri]

I haen't been to Universal Hollywood, but my Dh has and said it is much smaller.Universal Orlando has 2 parks plus citywalk.There are definitely thrill rides and coasters,but younger kids and non-thrill riders can have a great time.Both my DH and my 10 yr old are NOT thrill or coaster riders and they absolutely LOVE Universal Orlando.IOA and the Studios also have some of the best theming anywhere.
DO NOT compare it to Disney, DO NOT go in expecting it to be anything like Disney and you will have an absolute blast.Disney is Disney and Universal is Universal, and no it is not a glorfied Six flags

 

[Dee2013]

I get really motion-sick, but I have gone back to UO several times and can't wait to see Diagon Alley in September!

I did do ET and also the Seuss Trolley, plus Shrek and Despicable Me on the stationary seats, though! make sure you go through the queues of things you aren't riding- they all have exits at the end. The Hogwarts Castle is not to be missed!

Lots to see and experience!

 

[yoopergirl]

Universal in California is way smaller and doesn't have the huge roller coasters like they do at Universal Flordia/IOA.

 

[hpfan100]

The studios in CA is a working studio with several attractions. Most people go to see the famed back lot tour and ride a few rides. It is small and with lower crowds can be finished in a half day. Things are in the works to change it up though.


As for Florida, universal is a great resort. Two theme parks, city walk and hotels walking distance from it all. Some of my favorite areas are potter, Seuss, jurassic park and ET. I find uni a nice alternative to disney and nothing like six flags.

 

[rangebob]

Universal is no Disney. But then again Universal is no Six Flags park. I've been to all 3 of the parks that you mention. I have a son that is no thrill ride person and we wouldn't really do anything at Six Flags (any). They are a glorified carnival (actually state fair) in a permanent location. Universal Hollywood is more toward that actual film/TV production with their biggest item is the backlot tour. Universal Florida is full of rides that all can do. My son has plenty to do at all of the Universal parks.

 

[bumbershoot]

" the kids told me that Universal is more like Six Flags than like Disney."

I haven't been to the CA one so I can't speak to what they might have experienced.

And as we know from reading opinions, one person's "omg this place is gorgeous and themed down to the signs on the walls" is another person's stark "this isn't Magic Kingdom" moment.

I find Universal Florida to be incredible. Lovely, nicely themed, fun, thrilling to just walk around and see the sights. I love being there.

 

[buzzrelly]

Phew! Glad to hear that it's not like a huge Six Flags! I don't mind that it's not like Disney, as long as there are some rides for all of us to go on together, since I don't do big roller coasters. I'm looking forward to seeing both Harry Potter areas, and trying butter beer, etc. And the hotel looks really nice too. I think comparing it to the CA park isn't really fair. Guess we will have to see and judge for ourselves next April. Thanks for all of the replies!