How many days? (I know, I know....it's an annoying question - sigh.)

[disney-super-mom]

We've NEVER been to a Universal park, not even in California, but we're planning an Orlando vacation with our boys (will be 8 and 4), and would like to really spend some of our time at Universal Studios/IOA.

We for sure would stay at one of the on site hotels for express line access, and most likely when we visit it will be sometime in the off season (late August, Sept, Oct, Nov, early Dec, Jan, Feb). So, keeping those things in mind, how long should we plan to stay here in order to see and experience both parks?

Also, any suggestions or tips are most welcome.

 

[richvalle]

Hello,

We just got back from a trip where we had 7 full days for going to the parks. I have 3 kids (10, 8, 6).

We were able to do US in one day. We spent 2 full days at IoA and could have spent more. We also spent 2 days at SeaWorld.

We used 2 days for staying at the hotel (Portofino) and letting the kids play in the pools and looking around Citywalk.

Good luck!



rv

 

[damo]

Three days is a nice length. 1 day for each park and then 1 day for going back and doing things again.

 

[disney-super-mom]

Sounds good! Three days/two nights is what I was planning, so it's fits in perfectly with our plans.

I'm just wondering how much our boys will like Universal Studios/IOA? I'm thinking they're going to LOVE it, considering Spiderman, the Grinch, Jimmy Neutron, Cat in the Hat, Shrek, Sponge Bob, Dinosaurs, etc...is all there, and of course being boys, those characters are some of their FAVORITES!

 

[richvalle]

Our boys liked IoA more then US. I'm guesing you'll do 1 day at US and 2 at IoA.

In US they liked the Woody Zone best. The ball factory was a big hit and they rode the Woody rollercoaster 10+ times.

The Animal Show was fun too.

rv

 

[Fan2CSkr]

Sounds good! Three days/two nights is what I was planning, so it's fits in perfectly with our plans.

I'm just wondering how much our boys will like Universal Studios/IOA? I'm thinking they're going to LOVE it, considering Spiderman, the Grinch, Jimmy Neutron, Cat in the Hat, Shrek, Sponge Bob, Dinosaurs, etc...is all there, and of course being boys, those characters are some of their FAVORITES!

IOA has a quick Marvel parade a few times a day (see daily guide for times). The characters come through Marvel Island on quads stopping for photo ops and autographs. Be on the look out for Crash Bandicoot at Universal, the kids love him. There is lots to get and keep their attention and they should really love it! The Spiderman breakfast at Confiscos is always a hit for character interaction.

 

[AlexandNessa]

Since you've never been to Universal, I would suggest starting here:

http://disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1353733

It's the sticky of FAQs. Happy planning.

 

[JunieJay]

Sounds good! Three days/two nights is what I was planning, so it's fits in perfectly with our plans.

I'm just wondering how much our boys will like Universal Studios/IOA? I'm thinking they're going to LOVE it, considering Spiderman, the Grinch, Jimmy Neutron, Cat in the Hat, Shrek, Sponge Bob, Dinosaurs, etc...is all there, and of course being boys, those characters are some of their FAVORITES!

Just a warning: my boys went to Universal a few years ago and when given the choice now Universal versus Disney, they always pick Universal. Its a very "boy" themed park, imo. I wish Disney would get rid of some of the princess theming and make it a little more appealing for my boys and we might reach a happy medium.

 

[disney-super-mom]

Just a warning: my boys went to Universal a few years ago and when given the choice now Universal versus Disney, they always pick Universal. Its a very "boy" themed park, imo. I wish Disney would get rid of some of the princess theming and make it a little more appealing for my boys and we might reach a happy medium.

I agree, there is a lot of girl oriented Disney stuff...maybe a little too much.

On the up side, if our boys find they love Universal/IOA as much or more than Disneyland/WDW, then our family trips will morph into combo Universal/Disney trips instead of just one or the other. Personally, I would LOVE that!

 

[robvia]

3 days and 2 nights is fine. Late August and September are great because crowds are light. If you can take the kids out of school during this time, then do it.

Try to check in early, you'll get your magic keys even if you room is not ready. Fly in the day before and stay at a cheap hotel so you can do this.

 

[disney-super-mom]

IOA has a quick Marvel parade a few times a day (see daily guide for times). The characters come through Marvel Island on quads stopping for photo ops and autographs. Be on the look out for Crash Bandicoot at Universal, the kids love him. There is lots to get and keep their attention and they should really love it! The Spiderman breakfast at Confiscos is always a hit for character interaction.

Oh my gosh, I had NO IDEA that you could meet Crash Bandicoot there!!! Ryan, our soon to be 8 year old, would absolutely FLIP OUT to meet him! I mean he would literally GO BANANAS!!!