Taking the wife, 8 year old and 5 year old to Universal for the first time (tips request)...

[UGA03]

We've always been Disney people but time to make the Universal jump.

Staying at Cabana Bay from April 3rd-7th

Going to do 3 days at Studios & Islands of Adventure and a hotel day.

Any general (or detailed) tips for a newbie on food, best rides, secrets, etc. I'll review the whole board but wanted to at least start this thread. Thanks in advance.

 

[macraven]

Do check out the trip reports section
Even if it is dated, a lot of the info is still current

Also take a read of the hotel threads

 

[jolene63]

You are going during a popular spring break week. The last time we were there that week, the lines were very long. Just be prepared for that so you aren't disappointed. The weather is amazing this time of year though.

 

[kbelle8995]

Cabana Bay is great resort. You will find lots to do. Two pools a good splash pad, bowling alley, arcades. And a good food court with lots of options. It will be busy. Also staying at CBBR gives you early entry to HP. Take advantage of this.

 

[Skywalker3]

It will be a busy spring break time, so just be prepared. Lines!!! look over maps, the app, ahead of time, kinda talk about what everyone wants to do, look at height requirements, etc. have some backup plans, etc. Not sure if your kids are of similar heights? or thrill levels? We went one time when 1 kid was tall enough for some rides, and 1 was not. Wasn't a big deal, just had to split up sometimes, and find fun things for each to do.
We LOVE Universal, but it has quite a different vibe/feel than Disney, so just be aware. Very fun but different.
Not sure what kinds of places y'all eat at Disney? like QS's w burgers/nuggets, or more variety???
At Universal, it's so easy to go back to the hotel mid-day, go to the pools, etc.
We only do Universal about every 2-3 years, (although finally got an AP this year!) and found SO much great info in the Universal threads. Hope y'all have a great trip!

 

[springtime]

I just posted a thread called “Things I wish I knew…” We have done two Disney trips, and found Universal to be a different experience.

 

[kbelle8995]

For me At this point, I find that Universal lack of MEGA planning and days when it actually not crowded (with the exception of Hogsmeade) a breath of fresh air. If you need to do Harry Potter do it early.

Also since you have young ones may I suggest Camp Jurassic Park play area. Lots of caves to explore, playground and slides and if they get bored with standing in line this is a great place to go. I also highly recommend Suess Landings.

 

[musika]

Not specific to Universal, but as the parent of a small kid I would measure them at home, then measure again. Talk a LOT at home about what will happen if your kiddo is denied entrance at a ride due to height. Rather they be pleasantly surprised they made it rather than upset because their heart was set on it - especially if the big kiddo still gets to ride. Keep in mind the "thrill" level might still be too much for the 5 yo even if they are tall enough. My two kids are still somewhat cranky at me about Tower of Terror lol.

 

[Kit Jackson]

It depends on what your kids are into. Are they into thrill rides? Is someone a huge Harry Potter fan? Are they into Simpsons? I'm a big fan of Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, King Kong, Minion Mayhem, ET, and the Jimmy Fallon ride (I know some people hate the Jimmy Fallon ride). My favorite places to eat in the park were Mythos and BumbleBee Man's Taco Truck. I loved the ice-cream at Florian Fortescue and the banana ICEE near King Kong. In CityWalk I enjoyed Toothsome and the NBC Sports Grille. The Harry Potter sections are incredibly detailed and fun to walk around in, especially for fans of the books/movies. Springfield is also fun for the Simpsons fans. The Simpsons ride isn't as good if you are in the 2nd row of the ride vehicle. The shows in different areas of the parks are fun if you have the time or want a break from rides for a bit.

Think about any issues your kids have had with rides in the past (dark, drops, motion sickness, ride intensity) and take that into account.