Major differences between DW and USF

[perdidochas]

I'm a fairly experienced DW visitor. I know most of the tricks to make my family comfortable, save money, and not waste time.

How is USF different from DW?

Can we carry snacks/bottled water/sandwiches?

What are the rules regarding backpacks?

What is the most magical part about USF?

 

[holcomb-mania]

I don't think snacks are a problem (not sure), and I know I took a backpack but I can't quote you any rules about them.

I think UO/IOA is more about fun than magic (WWofHP excepted, of course ).

 

[damo]

Are you planning on staying onsite? That is the biggest difference. If you stay onsite you get unlimited express access which is the same as if you were given fast passes to every ride to use whenever and as often as you please.

The parks are geared more toward older children and adults. Emphasis is given on experiencing the ride where Disney seems to be more sit and watch oriented with a few great rides.

Yes you can carry snacks, bottled water and sandwiches. You cannot bring hard sided coolers in to the parks though. Backpacks are fine.

The most magical part of USF is that you are actually riding the movies with attention being given to re-ridability.

 

[VAN]

My family went to US a few years ago and decided once was enough. If we want thrill rides/"amusement park" we go to Cedar Pointe in Sandusky, Ohio.

Americas Roller Coast !!!

 

[damo]

I suggest you go to the website www.universalorlando.com and view the videos and pictures to see that the parks are more than just coasters like you will find as Cedar Point. There is nothing at Cedar Point that resembles anything like Men in Black, Spiderman, Jurassic Park River Adventure, Terminator, The Mummy, etc. Yes there are two coasters at IOA that are definitely matchable at Cedar Point but that is it.

I also suggest that you go into google maps and do the street view inside the parks. You will again see that this is not simply an amusement park.

 

[Metro West]

I'm a fairly experienced DW visitor. I know most of the tricks to make my family comfortable, save money, and not waste time.

How is USF different from DW?

Can we carry snacks/bottled water/sandwiches?

What are the rules regarding backpacks?

What is the most magical part about USF?

1). They are as different as night and day...apples and oranges...too many differences to discuss. You should check out the website for an overview of what to expect: www.universalorlando.com

2.) Yes...you can carry snacks/bottled water/sandwiches into the parks.

3.) You can carry in backpacks...they will be searched.

4.) Universal doesn't have magic...it has it's own vibe which is completely different from Disney...luckily.

 

[Planogirl]

I think of Universal as being all about adventure while WDW has the magic thing. That adventurous spirit is its own form of magic though. I also think that Universal is more about the new while WDW is more about nostalgia. Of course WDW does have new things and Universal has some memories but overall that how I picture them.

Most magical part of USF? Maybe the theming in IOA? I personally get lost in the Lost Kingdom theming.

 

[Metro West]

I personally get lost in the Lost Kingdom theming.

Yes...The Lost Continent is very detailed.

 

[ChrisFL]

I'm a fairly experienced DW visitor. I know most of the tricks to make my family comfortable, save money, and not waste time.

How is USF different from DW?

You won't see as many strollers everywhere

You can eat at incredible restaurants without having to make reservations 6 months in advance

Both Theme Parks, Resorts and the Citywalk Entertainment Complex are within walking distance, or you can take a boat between resorts. No buses.

Cutting-Edge attractions that Disney hasn't topped yet

Overall it's just more exciting and upbeat than WDW

 

[ChrisFL]

My family went to US a few years ago and decided once was enough. If we want thrill rides/"amusement park" we go to Cedar Pointe in Sandusky, Ohio.

Americas Roller Coast !!!

Funny, that wasn't the question the OP was asking, and US/IOA are THEME parks, not amusement parks

 

[macraven]

universal has mummy dust.........

 

[psac]

universal has mummy dust.........

Funny, I like that. Yeah, to agree with everyone, Universal doesn't have the "magic" that WDW does. In some ways, I do find that a little lacking. But on the other hand, the conveniences of the parks do make up for it. Being able to walk up to Mythos (great restaurant) and get a seak for lunch without advanced rezzies is just really nice. Also as people said, if you can stay on site, it's really freaking nice to not have to wait on lines more than 15 minutes long (and most under 5.)

 

[Coach81]

errrmmmm how 'bout ticket prices for one????

But seriously... Disney is our fav place.. but we enjoy USF as well from time to time.. it is a ton of fun.. Have a great time!!!