Still Hesitant About Going...Please Help

[toystoryduo]

About a month or so ago, I posted a question on these boards about whether or not we should go to US/IOA. Well, as you can see from my countdown, we have less than three weeks to go and we still haven't decided whether or not to go to US/IOA.

My DD (age 2.5) LOVES Shrek, and we really want to take her to US to see it. So, that is not a problem. However, we are looking for rides that we can ride together as a family. (2 adults, 2.5 year old, 1 year old) Personally, I love Earthquake and Jaws, but those rides probably aren't the best choices for little kids. My DH loves Back to the Future (my stomach can't take it ) and Terminator, and is looking forward to MIB, DD, Spiderman, and Hulk. (Again, rides that little kids may not enjoy or even be able to ride.)

I think our hesitancy lies in the fact that we are not sure that we are going to get our money's worth. We haven' t been to US since 1997 and we've never been to IOA. My question is: Do you think it's worth it? Is there enough for children to do to keep them happy? Are there rides that we can go on as a family? Which days are best to go? Please give us your honest opinions because we have to decide soon!

Thank you for your help!

 

[damo]

What a tough decision! There are some shows at Universal that the 21/2 year old would like, Barney, Animal Show as well as Jimmy Neutron and Shrek. Maybe even ET. At IOA there are the Pteranadon Flyers, the play areas, One Fish Two Fish, the Caro-suess-el, Cat-in-the-hat (ask them for a no spin car for the little ones), talking fountain, and LOTS to see.

They will enjoy it more when they are older.

I guess it all comes down to money! I'm sure you will all have fun, although you will have to do some baby-swaps. I guess you could compare it to Epcot, MGM or Animal Kingdom and many rides in Magic Kingdom. That's just a really hard age.

Sorry I can't be of more help, I really think it is going to have to be a personal decision and your attitude about how much fun it is will most likely make it or break it for the kids!

 

[Prince Eric1]

I empathize with your question. We too talked about going to Universal and taking the kids, but we didn't know if the kids would enjoy it and decided to wait a couple of years. The kids are now 8 and soon to be 6, so we think it may be time. Luckily for us, we get to get a preview by going for 3 days for our anniversary, which many wouldn't have that luxury. I would almost have to say that if I was down there anyway and if your kids love Barney anywhere near as much as my kids did at that age, that the Seuss landing and seeing Barney alone may be worth it just for the expression on their faces. The worst case scenario is that they are only occupied for a half a day, but those memories may last forever.

 

[gschmerl]

Try this link for info on what little ones can do at Universal.
http://www.usoinfo.com/Parkinfo/kids.html

 

[SpideyHulk24]

All of you will have fun. We felt this way about our 3 year old and he loved it!!! He did not get bored and did alot!!!

 

[JessicaR]

My youngest son was 3 for our first trip oldest was 7, they had a ball! Plenty of fun to be had all over the parks. Hope you enjoy!

 

[Whoville_Nut]

http://www.usf.i8.com/USO_For_Kids.htm here is a UO guide for kids.

 

[KIRSTIN'S MOMMY]

We took our dd, now 3, when she was 1.5 yrs. old. She loved it!!! We are going back in 20 days and she is so excited! Be warned though, that Shrek and Jimmy Neutron have 40" height requirements, although I think there are stationary seats for those not tall enough to ride. My dd keeps asking us to measure her every day! She has about an inch to go...I sure hope she makes it.