First time to Universal!

[extravaganzamom]

Hi guys, I and my husband have been to Disney World four times over the past three years. We are going on an unexpected trip Nov.28 thru Dec. 5, 2008. My husband(63) is wanting to try something new so I was thinking about Universal. I looked over their site for a little bit but am feeling a bit like a fish out of water. I sure would appreciate a little advice. I have no clue as to how much time to devote or what to see. I know we don't like rock n rollercoaster or tower of terror at Disney World. Love thundermountain kind of people. I'm a planner and sure would appreciate some help!

 

[d4est]

Are you spending the entire time at Uni? Are you staying on site?

If you are there the entire time, you should be able to see and do everything you want, especially if you are staying on site as you will enjoy the wondrous perk of using the express entrance EVERY TIME by flashing your hotel key card!

Uni is so much fun. Just keep in mind that it is not Disney. It's different and incredible in it's own special way. There are lots of things to see and do.

If you like Thunder Mt., then I would guess you'd enjoy the Mummy at the studios--an indoor coaster that doesn't go upside down. The Simpson's is a new simulator ride. Men in Black is along the lines of Buzz Lightyear, but kicked up a notch and more adult themed (no cutesy aliens etc). The Rocky Horror show is a hoot. Jaws is a classic. We enjoy Twister...the queue is very detailed. Haven't been on the new Disaster... Jimmy Neutron is a fun, simulator type...fun for all ages. Shrek is 4D and quite funny.

At the Islands, there's Spiderman--not to be missed. Very impressive. If you like flume rides, Ripshaw Falls is great. Think Splash Mt. but with a more intense drop. Same with Jurassic Park. There's also Popeye & Bluto's Bilge-Rat Barges, kind of like Kali River Rapids, but with more action. In the land of Suess there are several cute kiddie rides that we enjoy. The Cat in the Hat is fun and we like the High in the Sky Trolley. There are coasters to be had, but you said you didn't like RnR, so I'm guessing you wouldn't enjoy Hulk or the Dragons. Also, FearFall is way more intense than Tower of Terror, so you'll probably skip that too.

Not sure what else you want to know. If you have specific questions, fire away!

 

[extravaganzamom]

Thanks for the reply, Laurie. This is an impromptu visit. Our neighbor just called me last night offering their timeshare condo at "Westgate Resort". I've never stayed offsite from Disney World but thought this would be a good opportunity to see what else is "out there". I'm leaving my comfort zone sort of speak. I expect we will go one or two days if needed to go to Universal. Thanks again for the info on the rides. Do you have any good suggestions for a counter service?

 

[Metro West]

I expect we will go one or two days if needed to go to Universal. Thanks again for the info on the rides. Do you have any good suggestions for a counter service?

For good counter service, I would recommend Louie's at the Studios and Thunder Falls Terrace at IOA. One full day at each park should be enough time for you to see and do everything.