First time: IOA or USO

[ERJmommy]

Which park would you recommend for two 9 year old boys and one 5 year old girl? We are thinking of a mid November trip (13-18) and will do MK and the Christmas party at MK but are also thinking of traveling over to US for one day. While DD is still young enough to appreciate the magic of MK, I think the boys would like to try something else. We just want a taste to see if a full Universal trip would be something to consider in the future. Also, do you think we'd need Express Pass this time of year?

 

[Metro West]

Which park would you recommend for two 9 year old boys and one 5 year old girl? We are thinking of a mid November trip (13-18) and will do MK and the Christmas party at MK but are also thinking of traveling over to US for one day. While DD is still young enough to appreciate the magic of MK, I think the boys would like to try something else. We just want a taste to see if a full Universal trip would be something to consider in the future. Also, do you think we'd need Express Pass this time of year?

With Diagon Alley open at the Studios during your visit, crowds will be higher than in the past. Actually both parks will be more crowded due to HP areas. I think either park would be a good choice for your children. Both parks have rides/shows that everyone would enjoy. Are your kids HP fans? If so, you will need a park to park ticket to ride Hogwarts Express...not just a single park pass. If you've never visited before, check out the Universal Orlando website and see what rides interest them and then YouTube for ride videos.

You should wait until you arrive before purchasing EPs...they are non-refundable and date/park specific.

 

[schumigirl]

Have a look at Universalorlando.com and see what sort of things would appeal most to them.

Both parks have a fantastic selection of rides and shows, but definitely wait and see how busy the park is before considering EP......as Metro says they are non refundable

 

[sporter]

If I had to do only one park it would probably be IOA.

Harry Potter first.
Then do Jurassic Park.
Ripsaw falls.
Pluto's water ride.
Spider Man.

 

[TinkerbellsMagic]

IOA - if you are only going to one park. The super hero area will be an awesome experience for your boys! My son got his picture made with Spiderman, Storm, Rogue, Dr Doom, Spiderman, Green Goblin, Capt America, Cyclops and Wolvarine! The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is great too! Make sure to eat at Mythos!

Yes, express pass!

 

[Planogirl]

I'll go against the grain and say USO. We love the Mummy's Revenge, Men in Black, Despicable Me, Transformers and the Terminator. Plus there are kid areas, lots of characters and several shows.

However, the food is better in IOA and I'd hate to miss Spiderman, Jurassic Park and the Cat in the Hat. Plus you'll have Harry Potter at both.

I would get at least a one day park to park.

 

[RAPstar]

It is also pretty easy to get most of the headliner attractions done in one day. Especially since you'll be there in November. It will be busier cause of the new Potter section, but hopefully not as bad as the peak summer times.