New to Universal

[klstiger]

Hey all! I am looking for advice about visiting Universal. This is our "real" first time visiting. (I've visited for a day but with a convention and had private access and didn't have to buy tickets). Well this time, my son, by then 9 yr and I love thrill rides. We are going to WDW for a week and want to spend a day over at Universal.
We are looking at the Friday or Saturday after Thanksgiving 2013. Are the thrill rides in one park or buy tixs to both? Can the thrill rides be done in one day or do we need two? Is thanksgiving day extremely ridiculously busy? advice on hotels near by? We will be driving there. Advice on when to buy tickets, seems like they run specials????
I will continue reading here but hoping for info to jump start my research...
TIA!

 

[BrinkofSunshine]

There are thrill rides in both parks. However, Islands of Adventure has more of the thrills. I'd suggest doing a park hopper or spend a day at each. They're worth it.

Both of those days are busy for the parks. If you can wait one more day, the Sunday after Thanksgiving is very quiet (I was there today, 10 minute wait for the most popular ride for most of the day). If you have to chose Friday or Saturday, I'd recommend staying at one of the three on-site hotels. With your room keys you'll receive complimentary Express Pass entry for most of the rides in the park. Plus, the hotels are great. You can also buy the Express Pass if you don't stay on-site, but it can sometimes be as much, if not more than the price of park admission and it is only good once per ride, while the hotel Express Pass is unlimited.

 

[Metro West]

Advice on when to buy tickets, seems like they run specials????

Undercover Tourist offers the best prices so you should check their website. Sometimes Costco will run ticket specials but since Transformers will be open by the time you visit, I doubt there will be many specials especially during a heavy travel time like Thanksgiving.