Please help me plan...

[lizardqueen]

DH and I spent 1 day each at IOA and USF back in 2001. That was the first and only time we were there. Now, instead of going to Disney, we are going to try a Universal only trip. How long do you suggest? What are some of the best activities? We are planning on staying offsite to keep the costs down. What are your favorite restaurants? Any tips or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

By the way, we are planning on sometime in early (after the 4th) to mid July and it will be just the 2 of us.

 

[rwdavis]

We just did the same thing back in January. We spent a full day at USF and most of the next day at IOA and finished back at USF. 2 Days is enough for both these parks done in full. The water rides at IOA are fun but you will get wet if not fully drenched. Spiderman was a cool ride. We do pretty much everything at USF.

We really liked Margaritaville for dinner. We spent some time over at Downtown Disney. Skip Planet Hollywood unless you want to look at the memorabilia. In the past we've eaten at Emerol's (very good) and next year plan a visit to Hard Rcok for dinner.

 

[robvia]

Most people will tell you to stay onsite to get FOTL.
Did you already pick a hotel?
There are some across the street you can walk from, that would save on parking.
Offsite across the Street
I like the Best Western. A step up would be the Amerisuites (now Hyatt).
The best plan is to do the two visit approach each day. During peak times like July, the park opens at 08:30am, but it's not official, just happens. You want to arrive at 8am and be first into the park. That will give you 2 hours of walk on rides. The herd of people shows up at 11am.
Go back to your room in the afternoon and rest. Then return at 5pm for the 360 show which happens at 09:55pm.

Most popular restaurants will be
Mythos for lunch.
Margaritaville for dinner.