Universal trip w/ smaller kids

[minnie4me]

DH and I haven't been to universal studio in at least 11 years, when there was only Universal studio. We frequent WDW every other year or so. I love it, and DH always enjoys it alot, but would like to try something different. Looking toward 2008, say May thru mid July, and would be traveling w/ a DS that is 5& 1/2. Is there enough for him to do at the two parks? I have heard a few people complain w/ Kindergarten age children, not enough to do here for them. He is tall, but skinny, so want him to "fit" into bigger rides safely. He is pretty brave when it comes to the action shows etc...loves Spiderman and super hero type things, and is a fan of Dr Seuss books, so thought that section might be ok. Are there kids clubs at hotels? Spa for adults? the Riverwalk be of interest to him? I need some good info/advice from those who frequent US. Thanks for the help...

 

[Fan2CSkr]

DH and I haven't been to universal studio in at least 11 years, when there was only Universal studio. We frequent WDW every other year or so. I love it, and DH always enjoys it alot, but would like to try something different. Looking toward 2008, say May thru mid July, and would be traveling w/ a DS that is 5& 1/2. Is there enough for him to do at the two parks? I have heard a few people complain w/ Kindergarten age children, not enough to do here for them. He is tall, but skinny, so want him to "fit" into bigger rides safely. He is pretty brave when it comes to the action shows etc...loves Spiderman and super hero type things, and is a fan of Dr Seuss books, so thought that section might be ok. Are there kids clubs at hotels? Spa for adults? the Riverwalk be of interest to him? I need some good info/advice from those who frequent US. Thanks for the help...

My kids have been going a few times a year since they were little (3years old) and just love it. CityWalk is fun and offers kids meals at each restaurant as well as eye candy walking around (games, fountains and such). Each park has children's play areas that are elaborate and much time can be spent there. Each on-site has a kids camp and my kids have visited all 3 and had a great time every time! Portofino Bay has a Mandara Spa. I have been a few times and it was great.

A boy especially will enjoy all the super heroes at Marvel Island as well as the parade they have during the day with autograph and picture opportunities. Your son will fit on what he fits on and the rest you can child swap on the lines.

I think 5 1/2 is a great time to explore these parks!

 

[Mainebound]

DH and I haven't been to universal studio in at least 11 years, when there was only Universal studio. We frequent WDW every other year or so. I love it, and DH always enjoys it alot, but would like to try something different. Looking toward 2008, say May thru mid July, and would be traveling w/ a DS that is 5& 1/2. Is there enough for him to do at the two parks? I have heard a few people complain w/ Kindergarten age children, not enough to do here for them. He is tall, but skinny, so want him to "fit" into bigger rides safely. He is pretty brave when it comes to the action shows etc...loves Spiderman and super hero type things, and is a fan of Dr Seuss books, so thought that section might be ok. Are there kids clubs at hotels? Spa for adults? the Riverwalk be of interest to him? I need some good info/advice from those who frequent US. Thanks for the help...

My sons LOVED Universal parks at age 5 (and much younger). Here's my view: is there enough to do at either park to give a 5 year old boy a fantastic day? YES!!! However, if you walk around the park counting up the rides he is not tall enough for, instead of focusing on all the fun he IS having, you may, like the other folks you mention, feel it is "not worth it."

I think Universal parks are especially great for the typical 5 year old boy due to the preponderance of super heroes, Nickelodeon, dinosaur, shark, and other stereotypically "boy" themed rides, events, and characters, and many many opportunities to get soaking wet, as well as to soak your unsuspecting family members.

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[yaytezIOA]

There are plenty of things for him to do, as well as plenty of things to explore, which is why my kids have loved Universal so much. Islands of Adventure, yeah there are some rides that smaller kids cant go on.....like three of them......but for the most part, everything else is a go, especially if he is brave. But my biggest thing to say to people is EXPLORE! There is so much to explore, so many playgrounds, so many little nook and crannies to lose yourself in....and thats just IOA.
http://disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1353733

 

[palavra]

Although we haven't been yet, I think my daughter (4) will love Universal and IOA. She's seen pictures and can't wait to go. I think all think all the playareas will be great. I'm amazed at all the things there seem to be to do for young kids at these two parks!