First time to IOA questions

[kellia]

We are going to Universal for the first time the last week of January. We have to see Harry Potter! . I have a few questions.

From what I've read, it looks like Sunday is the best day to go. Is that right? Or won't it matter for this time of year?

Can we bring drinks/snacks in to the park?

What type of bags are the best to bring? Are backpacks or cross-body purses allowed or will we have to put them in a locker? Do I have to wear the stupid fanny pack?

If we get there at 9am, how long will it take to get through the park? We have 3 kids, 17 and two 9 yo.

Please share any tips for first-timers! Thanks!

 

[RMulieri]

Sunday is fine.Crowds will be low, but there is alot of tour groups down there this month,so plan accordingly.You can be drinks/snacks into the park but will need some place to put them.NO crossbody, handheld ,wristlet or backpacks will be allowed on certain rides and will require being locked up .You can use a fanny pack( those arre allowed) as long as they are unobtrusive and do not interfere with rides harnesses.IF the fanny pack is the size of a small toddler with all sorts of bottles etc hanging off it, that will also have to be locked up.If IOA is opening at 9am for the public, you will want to be there BEFORE Than about 830am and have tickets ready.Once the park opens you can make your way to Harry Potter( all the masses will be going that way).Be aware that onsite guests get into the park an hour before the public , so that area of the park will already have plenty of people in it ( even at the slower times of year).If Ollivanders interests you, do it first.They only tak about 20 people in the store at a time and the line builds and stays long.After that Forbidden Journy.After that you can feel free to move thru the park as you wish..How long park touring takes depends on what your interests are ,how busy it is and how your party tours.

 

[disney queen]

We, too, are going to US for the first time at the end of May. My kids have to see HP! We are staying at Old Key West at WDW. Any suggestions as to how to get there, what to do first, etc would be appreciated. I have made reservations for lunch at Mythos. Thanks

 

[Metro West]

We, too, are going to US for the first time at the end of May. My kids have to see HP! We are staying at Old Key West at WDW. Any suggestions as to how to get there, what to do first, etc would be appreciated. I have made reservations for lunch at Mythos. Thanks

If you aren't familiar with IoA, you should look at the Universal website to acclimate yourself with the park and the attractions. Then check out YouTube for ride videos so you can see what you're getting yourself into.

We have a transportation sticky that answers any travel questions you might have so check that out too.

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2494908

If you have any specific questions, let us know.

 

[macraven]

ditto on what metro west stated.


get familar with the layout of the parks.
make note of the restrooms and food places you are interested in.
check out the food menus in advance so you can plan your day.

eat at off hours to avoid crowds. (before 11:45 or after 1:30)

pick up the park guide map when you enter so you can find the hours of shows and entertainment in advance for the day.