New to Universal

[Dementia]

Hi! Turns out we have been lucky enough to have been given one day-two park passes to Universal/IoA on our upcoming trip, so we'll probably go May 26th (on a Thursday). It would be me, and DD(5) (and possibly my bro and GF and best friend and her DD-12). Now I have NEVER been to Universal before, and probably won't get back for quite some time (so I guess I want to make the most of this visit). I may have missed the thread if there was one, but what do you suggest as tips/must sees/avoids for the first timer to be able do both in a day? What are some hints, the rides to ride, the things to see, etc...

looking forward to your answers.. Thanks!!

 

[Tekneek]

In IOA, you must check out everything in Seuss Landing. The rides are great for little ones, IMO, and the overall look/feel of the section is tremendous.

 

[Motherfletcher]

Thats the last day of school here so it might be less crowded. Given the party I'd start at USO before the park opens. Hit Shrek, Jimmy Nuetron, Mummy (if 5 y.o. is adventurous), MIB, Jaws, ET, T2, Horror Make-Up, Beetlejuice. Move to IOA and get for Express Hulk, do Spiderman, Jurrasic Park River Adventure, Suess Landing, Hulk (if time), go the Popeye and Ripsaw to get wet! You missed Dueling Dragons but I'm guessing that coasters aren't high on your list.

 

[spatenfloot]

With a 5 yr old, definitely skip the mummy ride (too scary). Definitely go to Jimmy Neutron at US. At IoA, visit all of Seussland (at opening is best), Flying Unicorn, and Bilge Barges (wet ride). Maybe Spiderman if 5 yr old is brave.

Adults and teens should not miss Hulk, Spiderman, Mummy, MIB, and Dueling Dragons.

Also be sure to use Express passes whenever possible and single rider line for MIB (your group will get split up but you will save tons of time).

 

[buzz2400]

You might not be able to use the fast pass system. Someone I know went last year and single day tickets did not allow you to use the fast pass system. We go every summer. What I have found is that you need to go on shrek as soon as the park opens. This ride gets very long lines. At IOA we have found that spiderman and hulk gets long lines so fast pass is always good to use. We have found though that the dueling dragon roller coaster never really gets long. We have found that you really need fast pass for most other rides at IOA. Also for young children red fish blue fish are very slow loading rides and very long waits so that is something you would want to do in the morning.