Touring Question

[misse336]

We are going on a last minute trip to US/IoA next week. None of us have ever been there before. We have the hotel booked (onsite) and have 3 days for the parks. The plan is to do US the first day, IoA the second day and to catch things that we either missed the first/second day or loved and want to ride again on the third day. I know that we won't be able to do everything, but hope to see a lot of each park. We aren't big HP fans (none of us have read any of the books or seen any of the movies) although we are planning on visiting those areas too due to the awesome theming and great rides. I will be there with a 10 year old, 7 year old and 5 year old (so we will need to do rider swap sometimes).

I have been searching the internet for suggested touring plans and found this site. My questions for people who have been there before is: 1. Does it look doable? and 2. Is there anything not on there that is a must see? It says that it is accurate and up to date but want to make sure that it is and that the advice given is good. Thanks for your help.


Edited - It's not letting me post links to the touring plans - I will cut and paste parts of it in for opinions.

 

[misse336]

Removed at the request of the copyright owner- WebmasterAlex

 

[misse336]

Removed at the request of the copyright owner- WebmasterAlex

 

[schumigirl]

You really don't need such a detailed plan at Universal.

Especially if you are onsite.

 

[misse336]

Removed at the request of the copyright owner- WebmasterAlex

Sorry, I didn't even think of copyright issues I was just trying to get around not being able to post a link. Sorry about that.

 

[misse336]

You really don't need such a detailed plan at Universal.

Especially if you are onsite.

Even if you are there in August (summer) and can only go Friday/Saturday/Sunday? It just seems like it would be a really busy time with people trying to squeeze in last minute vacations. We plan to be there next weekend.

 

[schumigirl]

If you have Unlimited EP from one of the 3 onsite deluxe hotels doesn't matter when you go.

We have walked on to The Hulk when the regular queue was 90 minutes and we went on twice in less than 15 minutes.

If you are at Cabana Bay then make use of EE. If it's really too busy you could purchase EP.

Universal does not require commando planning. One of the reasons we love it so much......we just do not plan.

 

[Lynne G]

Actually, 3 days is perfect. And, if you get done everything in one park, if you bought 2 park passes, you can go to the other park. They are not far apart.

Since you are onsite, take advantage of the early entry to enjoy the Potter areas an hour before the general public. That's the time to ride the Forbidden Journey in Islands of Adventure's potter area, and the Grigott's ride in the Studios potter area first thing. Both rides to not take the express pass.

With your small kids, I'd ride the Pteranodon Flyers once the park opens to the general public. You can get there by using the bridge from potter land to dino land. It's only for smaller kids, so all cannot ride unless paired with a small kid. It's a fun ride, but has very slow capacity and the line is mostly in full sun.

Other than that, use your express pass and enjoy any of the other rides. Most of the time, the first hour of normal open is not as crowded.

We'll be there in less than 3 weeks, and we are excited. We really enjoy the Universal parks. I agree with Schumi, there's not much to plan, other than getting up early at least 2 days, then riding whatever you want. Also enjoy the shows, the animal and horror make up shows are great for the whole family.

 

[glocon]

Let me just make this suggestion....

In order to get the most out of the Harry Potter sections of the park, you and your kids should watch the first couple of the Potter movies. The lands are incredibly themed, but if you have seen the movies, they will be truly magical!

Like being IN the movie!