Our First, Last and only visit to Universal...yuck!

[damo]

No matter what theme park you go to, if you go at a busy time, not at park opening and with no planning you are very unlikely to have a good time. I am curious about what was dirty though.

 

[Foladar]

No matter what theme park you go to, if you go at a busy time, not at park opening and with no planning you are very unlikely to have a good time. I am curious about what was dirty though.

I agree, I think you can just about remove the "Universal Studios" part of the title and put ANY theme park name - and it COULD be truthful about parks, but some of it seems a bit exaggerated to say the least. I love both parks, Universal and Disney .. but Universal is such a value that it's all I prefer to do. I don't mind Disney once in a while, but a yearly pass for $99 a year is pretty cheap seeing three days alone in Disney is $120 (Fla resident rate, $170ish for out of towners). I don't mind people disliking Universal, less lines for me

 

[MartDM]

4. If you are offended by the way I described the clientele, so be it. Sorry, it it looks, acts, walks and most importantly TALKS like a thug, most likely it is a thug. I am sorry for the 1% or so that choose to act, talk, walk and behave like this and are perfect members of society.

I'm sorry you choose to stereotype people like that - it's sad & detrimental to our society.

 

[flatline]

I'm sorry you choose to stereotype people like that - it's sad & detrimental to our society.

at least someone else sees it. that was one of the comments that flew me into my rant. I'm as white as a saltine cracker and I was thinking 'borderline rascism.'

 

[ChrisFL]

I should've guessed that on the Universal Thread I was going to get flamed whether deserved or not...my fault.

However, I seriously have to wonder if I am the only one in the world, on the only day of the year saw this behavior. I respect others opinions, but expect the same in return. To reply to previous posters...info. is below.

1. Agreed upon more planning. I didn't plan any touring plan for Universal and probably should have. But no amount of planning would change the overall feel and clientele I observed @ Universal.

2. The only Disney Park I'm aware of that sells alcohol in kiosks is Epcot. I have never seen alcohol ever sold at any other park. Of course I am not a big drinker so I may be wrong on this.

3. We chose Islands of Adventure because a local had told us that was the place to go for young children. Her bad and mine apparently.

4. If you are offended by the way I described the clientele, so be it. Sorry, it it looks, acts, walks and most importantly TALKS like a thug, most likely it is a thug. I am sorry for the 1% or so that choose to act, talk, walk and behave like this and are perfect members of society.

5. I walked in with a VERY open mind and was looking forward to a new experience. I was not biased in any way.

6. I seriously doubt I am the only one who feels this way about Universal. Being on this thread was clearly a mistake. I truly value how all of you so diplomatically and tactfully voiced your opinions, but they are not mine.

AGAIN, this is my experience and I am certain there are hundreds of thousands of people who disagree with me. As an American citizen I am proud to live in a country where people are free to have and voice their own opinions. This is mine.

Obviously you haven't experienced much of the youth of america if you think that everyone that looks a certain way is automatically a "thug".

You claim to have walked in with an open mind, yet you didn't read any signs, tour maps or anything to see how to enjoy the parks the right way? So you didn't go to any kid-friendly rides in Seuss Landing since the lines were too long, or did you give up before even making your way there?

You can be proud of your opinion all you want, but it's clear that you didn't try very hard to have a good time, everything you've posted makes it sound quite the opposite.

 

[Fan2CSkr]

First of all, to all the Universal lovers out there, please don't flame me, this is my opinion of Universal & Islands of Adventure..these are just my personal observations.

OK, where to begin...Well, after reading about the Kids free + 3 extra days deal, I decided it was time to try Universal. For $200 for all 4 of us for 5 days seemed like a no brainer, so I went for it.

We planned 2 whole days, one for each park...turns out, only 1/2 day was needed.

First of all the cost of parking is a joke! Maybe it's because I have never had to pay for parking @ Disney that this threw me off, but anyway, to pay $14 for "preferred" parking that still took over 10 mins. to reach the park is ridiculous. I still kept an open mind and made the trek. Got to the shops (I know it has a name, but don't know what it is) another 10 minutes walk to the parks. What I did notice with all this walking is the difference of patrons. Now, without trying to offend anyone, I am going to try to describe the guests as diplomatically as I can. Let's just say that I felt like I had walked into east LA. Many of the people were teenagers and 20-25. Many had foul mouths and were acting like gangsters. Using "street lingo" very loudly and offensively. I truly felt intimidated just with the type of visitors I was seeing.

After FINALLY getting into Islands of Adventure, I was surprised. I thought the theming and colors were very nice. I liked all the water features, but the rides were way spread out and WAY overloaded lines. We decided we HAD to go on Spiderman with our boys and ended up waiting well over an hour. The way the line spread out was very misleading and had I known how long the line was, I never would've ridden it. As it turns out, Spiderman was singlehandeldy the most expensive ride we've ever ridden, it cost $200 (it was the only ride we rode). The ride itself was great, but not worth the length of wait.

We headed over to Toon Lagoon and beyond and the kids were trying out the water features all the way there. Let's just say the kids there (and completely unattentive parents) were completely out of control, rude, dirty and unpleasant. I told my kids to stay out from now on. The shops had almost NO ONE in them which indicated to me the level of quality overall of the park and it's merchandise. Again, just my personal opinion, no flames please. Then I saw younger guests drinking alcohol. I think that reason may have been the one that pushed me over the edge. I firmly believe that alcohol should not be served at a theme park where children abound. I didn't see anyone drunk or acting badly, but I'm sure it's only because I didn't stay long enough.

Finally after walking and walking and walking and finding almost no rides that DS4 could ride, I was done. I wanted out, and I wanted out now! Honestly, I would have paid another $200 for someone to just get me out quicker, seriously.

Basically, Universal was DIRTY, overpriced, unbelievably long lines, served alcohol and attracted a crowd that I didn't feel comfortable being around. Again, just my .02, but if you're used to Disney Quality and have younger children, I would suggest skipping Universal and spending your money @ Disney.

What do you think might happen if someone posted on the Disney boards, A thumbs down , a yuck and then asked not to be flamed after admitting you only did ONE ride before forming an opinion? There is plenty to do with a 4 and 8 year old.

I'm wondering what you hoped to achieve by sharing your personal observations here? The parks are NOT dirty. Universal is NOT overpriced but in line with Disney and actually I find prices to be a bit less. Alcohol is served all over your beloved Disney and I believe children abound there in great numbers. You spotted a young person drinking alcohol and you think that HAD to lead to finding drunks if you put the time in? Thats just outrageous.

As far as your comment to describe the guests without offending anyone here, why??? Do you really think anyone believes that many Universal guests YOU encountered had foul mouths were under 20 and acted like gangstas? So tell me, whats it like to walk into East LA? I really dont know what you meant by that statement but I have a feeling it wasnt a compliment.

I honestly feel you are so blinded by Disney that you just arent open to any other possibilities. There are many other theme parks and its a bonus that they arent all the same as Disney.

I should've guessed that on the Universal Thread I was going to get flamed whether deserved or not...my fault.

However, I seriously have to wonder if I am the only one in the world, on the only day of the year saw this behavior. I respect others opinions, but expect the same in return. To reply to previous posters...info. is below.

1. Agreed upon more planning. I didn't plan any touring plan for Universal and probably should have. But no amount of planning would change the overall feel and clientele I observed @ Universal.

2. The only Disney Park I'm aware of that sells alcohol in kiosks is Epcot. I have never seen alcohol ever sold at any other park. Of course I am not a big drinker so I may be wrong on this.

3. We chose Islands of Adventure because a local had told us that was the place to go for young children. Her bad and mine apparently.

4. If you are offended by the way I described the clientele, so be it. Sorry, it it looks, acts, walks and most importantly TALKS like a thug, most likely it is a thug. I am sorry for the 1% or so that choose to act, talk, walk and behave like this and are perfect members of society.

5. I walked in with a VERY open mind and was looking forward to a new experience. I was not biased in any way.

6. I seriously doubt I am the only one who feels this way about Universal. Being on this thread was clearly a mistake. I truly value how all of you so diplomatically and tactfully voiced your opinions, but they are not mine.

AGAIN, this is my experience and I am certain there are hundreds of thousands of people who disagree with me. As an American citizen I am proud to live in a country where people are free to have and voice their own opinions. This is mine.

1. ANY planning at all would have helped. I am totally not getting the feel and the problem with Universal's clientele.

2. As stated in many above posts alcohol is served at Disney all over minus the MK.

3. Dont blame others good intentions for directing you to the wrong park. She didnt know you or your family and honestly YOU would have had to read to figure that one out since many famlies prefer IOA for the little ones.

4. Looks are deceiving and images misleading. Perhaps your perception is narrow. Your perception is not my reality.

5. You are not biased in any way? Whats with the gangsta, thug, East LA alcohol drinking comments? Sounds biased to me and not conducive to an "open mind".

6.You received many considerate responses to your posts, sorry I couldnt be one of them. You see, your opinions are not mine either.

 

[Sleeping Jedi Beauty]

To the OP, you're not the only one with a low opinion of US/IOA. My parents went once and have vowed never to return. And after US/IOA's recent ad campaign ripping Disney I don't see myself going there either. An ad campaign encouraging people to visit US/IOA is fine, but telling people to visit US/IOA because Disney is for little kids and old fuddy-duddies tells me that the product Universal offers is inferior since they can't talk about how good they are without mentioning why they think their rival is weak.

 

[flatline]

Fan2CSkr...

perfectly worded, I don't have your level of patience and just rant from time to time. I'm not the type of person to read such a scathing, misinformed post and urge them to reconsider them to revisit UO. I'd rather they stay far, far away.

 

[flatline]

To the OP, you're not the only one with a low opinion of US/IOA. My parents went once and have vowed never to return. And after US/IOA's recent ad campaign ripping Disney I don't see myself going there either. An ad campaign encouraging people to visit US/IOA is fine, but telling people to visit US/IOA because Disney is for little kids and old fuddy-duddies tells me that the product Universal offers is inferior since they can't talk about how good they are without mentioning why they think their rival is weak.

here we go again, your mom and dad visited UO. you've never been there, grow up and make your own decisions.

 

[Pooh Fan]

I'm sorry you did not enjoy yourself at IOA. My family loves Universal. In fact, we end every Orlando trip with 4-5 days onsite at Universal. We feel as though there is something for all of us to enjoy. My family DS 7 included love the coasters. I could not ever imagine showing up without a plan--especially without the FOTL you get for staying onsite.

 

[sha_lyn]

MK isthe only WDW parkthat does not sell alcohol. Are as equall disturbed by the presence of alcohol in MGM, Epcot, Animal Kingdom, BlizzardBeach, typhoon Lagoon and Downtown Disney?

How have you cheated your way around paying for parking at WDW? or have you only stayed onsite?

You do realize that WDW doesn't screen their guest either. Those so called thugs were probably visiting WDW other days ofthe week.

How have you avoided lines at WDW during peak summer weeks?

Finally after walking and walking and walking and finding almost no rides that DS4 could ride, I was done. I wanted out, and I wanted out now! Honestly, I would have paid another $200 for someone to just get me out quicker, seriously.

This is the most ridiculous thing in your post. The only things your 4 yr old could not do at IOA were Hulk. Dr Doom and Dueling Dragons (and possibly Rip Saw Falls).
I take it you didn't even bother to go to SeussLanding where everthing is geared toward the youngsters.
So yiou didn't even bother going to US to see the Barney Show, Shrek, Jimmy Neutron etc, but had 5 day tickets.
I fell sorry for your kids. You let your disney colored glasses and the huge chip on your shoulder get in the way of their vacation.

 

[thelionqueen]

OK, thanks again for the well worded and tasteful posts. To address yet more comments, here goes.

1. I "cheated" my way out of parking at Disney because I stay on site, always have always will.

2. I didn't make it to Seuss landing because I was so disgusted by what I had seen in 3 hours I didn't feel it necessary to go that much farther in the park.

3. As far as "cheating" my kids out of an enjoyable experience due to my "ignorance" or "bias" they wanted to leave an hour before I had had my fill.

4. If referring to my "Disney Colored" glass as expecting quality, customer service and wholesome family entertainment, then yes, the glasses are on and will stay on.

5. As far as a "scathing and misinformed" post goes, I guess you missed the part where I emphasized many times that this is MY opinion and everyone is entitled to one. I guess if my views don't match yours, I'm misinformed..sorry for MY ingorance.

6. As far as " I'm as white as a saltine cracker and I was thinking 'borderline rascism" I've see MANY people with bumper stickers who consider being called a Thug a compliment. I personally don't take it as a compliment or an insult. A thug has many different meanings and parallels. To me a thug is someone who acts in a way that projects a lack of courtesy and TO ME is intimidating. Would I call this a generalization, maybe, racism...give me a break!

7. "Looks are deceiving and images misleading. Perhaps your perception is narrow". True, looks can be deceiving and yes my description was probably generalizing. "Your perception is not my reality" Again, it is MY perception and I never implied, intended or wanted it to be anyone's reality.

8. "You received many considerate responses to your posts, sorry I couldnt be one of them. You see, your opinions are not mine either" A HUGE thanks to those considerate responses, I appreciate them. You see, I never wanted my opinions to be yours, and frankly am glad they're not.

9. "As far as your comment to describe the guests without offending anyone here, why??? Do you really think anyone believes that many Universal guests YOU encountered had foul mouths were under 20 and acted like gangstas? I don't care what anyone believes, this is what I encountered." Maybe they had a conference, maybe they were all siblings, I don't know, nor do I care. This is what I observed.

10. If you've never been to East LA, you'll have to experience that for yourself. Those who have been there need no explanation.

11. "I'm sorry you choose to stereotype people like that - it's sad & detrimental to our society" Are you serious??

I don't feel the need to justify anything else, just trying to relay my experience. Perhaps posting this on this thread was not the smartest thing to do..I've learned my lesson. Having read some of the ridiculous posts on this thread, I am choosing not to read any others or post any other replies. You can take whatever you want from my posts. But I can assure you, I am NOT racist in any way shape or form, I do love Disney but that did not affect my perception of US. And I respect the value of everyone's right to their own opinion even if I do not share it. You all should be very happy that this Racist, Disney Colored Glasses wearing, child neglecting, closed minded and stuck up person will not lengthen your lines @ Universal.

Have a great day!

 

[flatline]

another thing I'm curious about the OP's comments...since you fled in terror regarding the 'clientele' after a half day...

where did you have lunch? I'd love to hear your dining reviews.

 

[flatline]

You all should be very happy that this Racist, Disney Colored Glasses wearing, child neglecting, closed minded and stuck up person will not lengthen your lines @ Universal.
Have a great day!

and Florida's a better place without your type of tourism.

 

[JohnnySharp2]

Hi all,

I am from England and visit Florida every year.
I have read most of the posts on this thread.

We have always fully supported Universal and have APs, they are just brilliant value for money.
For us it's not a competetive thing between Disney and Universal, we like them both.

IOA is totally different than any other theme park, ideal for thrill rides and coaster seekers.
There are attractions for children but Universal has more rides and fun for little one's.

I echo what many have said and that bad planning can make you day at ANY park a bad experience, if the parks are going to be busy then getting there early is essential.

Many people on these boards seem to have a Disney obsession and are always willing to put down Universal.
If people behave in a bad way , whether it be a teenager or parent then the only people responsible for their actions are themselves to blame Universal for people's 'loutish' behaviour is frankly ridiculous.

I really don't get the 'dirty' suggestions at all, I have never seen any evidence of that.

 

[Sleepy]

Many people on these boards seem to have a Disney obsession and are always willing to put down Universal.

I find this as well, but what I find amusing about this particular thread is that we have a Disney liking person who has not given Universal a chance under the right circumstances. This person feels Universal is the worst place to go for a vacation and that is their right, but at the same time, I could not count the number of times people have posted on the Disney boards, what a horrible experience they had at DISNEY. Everything from the hotel room, the lines, the rude guests, prices, food, etc. I'm sure the same person on this thread, who has a problem with US would tell the person complaining about their experience at Disney, the same advice as we are giving them. Plan, research and know what to expect. Don't let the initial impression turn you off forever.

To the OP, I am surprised to hear the alcohol comment from a seasoned Disney person. Especially one who visits and plans using the DIS. I have read several threads asking people if they "Drink around the countries of Epcot". These threads get many replies.

 

[mslclark]

That is too bad that somebody told you IOA was the park to visit with small kids. That's probably the worst US advice I've ever heard, and it sounds like it ruined your trip. I'd never take small kids to IOA, there just not that much to do. US has much more for the younger ones to do, and it seems smaller and easier to walk around. It's also a shame you didn't make it to Suess Landing, that should have been your first stop with the little ones - the theming is awesome there - just like a Dr. Suess book!

After 4 trips to USF, I've found the parks to be just as clean as the WDW parks were in our last 4 trips there too. We love USF parks and always have a blast, but I have older kids and teens.

I'll agree with you on the parking - guess what: resort guests pay for parking too - $10 added to your bill every night! The one thing that really irks me about USF resorts. And it is quite a hike from the parking deck to the parks, but not any worse than the walks I've taken at Disney parking lots.

 

[Motherfletcher]

An old boss told me, "Be careful who's baby you're calling ugly."
You come to this forum and say don't "flame" me but I hate everything you love. Stay in East LA, Cheech. You won't be missed.

To the OP, you're not the only one with a low opinion of US/IOA. My parents went once and have vowed never to return. ... I don't see myself going there either.

What a milk toast! Mommy won't let me go to USO! You shouldn't go if you still drink your milk with both hands!

 

[Jules224]

We have been to US several times and love it we have never had any problems, we haven't ever been to IOA but we have 2 small children and after looking into the park realised it wasn't the best one to go to until they are a bit older.

 

[JulyGirl]

Count me among the "gangsters" who love IOA.