Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure?

[lacy1101]

We are going to visit family in Tampa in mid-October. Having never been to Universal before (just can't seem to give up the time while at Disney!), I thought we might take one day and visit Universal. If you could only do one, which would you choose - Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure?

BTW - we are a family of four: me, 42; DH 42; DS 15; DD 12. Thanks!

 

[Melisa1]

Thats a tough one!

I guess for me it would be US - but I absolutely love IOA too! I guess if you have one full day, there might be more to do at US. What do you think homies?

 

[Spidey7]

I personally think that IOA is the best park in the world. But if you guys get in early, you should be able to do both. At least hit the highlights at both parks, depending on how the crowds are. You should at least plan on trying to do both, since your tickets will allow you to do both. Its easier if you have the onsite room key fast passes, but I would try.

 

[Metro West]

But if you guys get in early, you should be able to do both.You should at least plan on trying to do both, since your tickets will allow you to do both.

I don't think you'd have any trouble doing both parks during mid-October...especially during the week.

 

[yaytezIOA]

Tuesday through thursday in mid october. DO BOTH PARKS!!!

 

[lacy1101]

Unfortunately, I am going to have to pick one. This is a very last minute decision (made by me I might add!) and our budget will only allow for a one day-one park ticket. Now what?

It looks like we will probably be there on Tuesday or Wednesday.

 

[Metro West]

Unfortunately, I am going to have to pick one. This is a very last minute decision (made by me I might add!) and our budget will only allow for a one day-one park ticket. Now what?

It looks like we will probably be there on Tuesday or Wednesday.

What kinds of rides do you like? If you like coasters and water rides, go to IOA. If you'd rather have some thrills and a calmer day, go to the Studios. It's a shame you can't do both because I think it's only a $10 difference between the 1 day 1 park and the 1 day 2 park.

 

[lacy1101]

You know, you're right. I was looking at the price for the 2 park unlimited admission up to 7 days. The differences in price for what I'm considering is:

1 day/1 park = $289.64
1 day/2 parks = $332.24

Difference: $42.60

That might be a little more doable. Do you really think we could handle both parks in 1 day? From what I can tell, the hours are 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.

 

[Jakey Rowling]

Definitely doable, we did this when we got a 2 park express pass in July and it will be a lot less busy for you.

I'd do IOA first, I'd assume the gates opened at 8.30 as July.
You will be amazed at what you can get done by lunchtime and then off to US.

Hard work but definitely enjoyable.

 

[BroadcastNewsMSU]

It is possible to do both parks in one day. Go to IOA first. Ride Spiderman first, followed by Hulk. Then make your way around the rest of the park clockwise. You should be able to do most of IOA in 4-5 hours before heading to US.

However if you if you only want to go to one park, I think your kids would probably enjoy IOA more.

 

[curlyjbs]

With a 15 yo & 12 yo I say definetely do IOA!!! We just returned and my kids (15, 13 & 11) never wanted to leave IOA. They "liked" US but they LOVE thrill rides and besides the Mummy there's really nothing that "thrilling" in US. The shows are great though!

If the crowds are low you could easily do both parks even if you dont have express passes.

~Connie