Is it worth a one day trip?

[spima3]

DH found out he will be in FL for business next week. He will be about 45 minutes from US/IOA. IF he gets a day off, would it be worth it for them to drive over for the day?
If so, which park would be better? Any tips?
We've never been before, and although the kids and I are probably going late 2010, he won't be with us. So it's probably now or never for him. TIA

 

[DeblovesPoohbear]

It's summer, so it's going to be crowded.
Which one is better is a difficult question. It really depends on what they are into. Universal Studios has The Mummy Coaster, the New Simpsons Ride (incredible), Men in Black,jaws, lots of great shows.

Islands has alot of thrill rides, Hulk Coaster, Spiderman, Ripsaw Falls,
Dueling Dragons.

 

[d4est]

If it were me, I'd jump at the chance! Having been there, I'd squeeze in my favs at both parks. As a family, if we had to pick one park, I'd lean toward UO because my DH doesn't do thrill rides. He really likes UO. At IOA, he'll do Spiderman, Popeye's...that's about it, I think. He's a good egg, though and puts up with waiting for Ds & me. Of course, it helps that Universal has "coldest beer he's ever tasted!"

You don't mention who, exactly, would be going...kids? Ages? What does DH like...simulators or thrills? Both? More opinions will follow if you give more details!

 

[spima3]

Well, DH will be there with one or two co-workers, no kids. They are in their late 30's to mid 40's.
I mentioned the trip because it is so close to where he will be staying; when they finish their projects early, they will usually try to see something of the local sites.
He is not a big thrill rider, so that means Universal? With only one day, I doubt they will be willing to do more than one park, especially if it's hot and crowded. Sounds like that is what he will be experiencing.
I believe there is a pass he can add on to the ticket, so if they go, they should probably get that as well?

 

[DeblovesPoohbear]

Well, DH will be there with one or two co-workers, no kids. They are in their late 30's to mid 40's.
I mentioned the trip because it is so close to where he will be staying; when they finish their projects early, they will usually try to see something of the local sites.
He is not a big thrill rider, so that means Universal? With only one day, I doubt they will be willing to do more than one park, especially if it's hot and crowded. Sounds like that is what he will be experiencing.
I believe there is a pass he can add on to the ticket, so if they go, they should probably get that as well?

Yup, it's called Express Pass
If they got that, they could probably do some attractions at both parks
Take away the waiting in line and you can get tons done!

 

[spima3]

Well, seems like everyone agrees a one day trip is worth taking. I would have done it even if it weren't , but DH is more practical.

Also, if he goes, I think he should get something for the kids, 13, 10, 8. He doesn't usually, as there often isn't any place that would have good souvenirs. Can anyone suggest a particular place at US, which I think he will definitely do, where he could pick up something interesting for the kids? and maybe his DW as well?

 

[macraven]

the studios store is the largest merch store in the park.
'
the store by the simpsons would be good if you are a homer homie.

lucy store if you love lucy...

 

[tlinus]

glad to hear he will be squeezing in the trip - just tell him to get an early start

there are tons and tons of stores in Universal and if you have AAA tell him to whip out the AAA card for a 10% discount on dining and merchandise

 

[spima3]

there are tons and tons of stores in Universal and if you have AAA tell him to whip out the AAA card for a 10% discount on dining and merchandise

Would this apply to Citywalk as well? I think they may dine there before heading back to their hotel.
I'm getting so excited and I'm not even going!

 

[DeblovesPoohbear]

Would this apply to Citywalk as well? I think they may dine there before heading back to their hotel.
I'm getting so excited and I'm not even going!

Yes, we used it at Margaritaville a week ago and got our 10%