US or IOA

[mimi1973]

I am planning on going to either Universal or Islands of Adventure. I can only go to one park, and I can't decide which one. Give me your opinions of which park you think 2 adults would enjoy more. Thanks!!!!

 

[JohnnySharp2]

It's difficult because they are both great, however I would lean towards US as it is my favourite.
I suppose IOA is more for thrill seekers and coaster lovers, whilst if you like the movies US is probably a better experience.

As they are literally a couple minutes walk apart, it is possible to do both in one day, I know that is not what you are asking though.
That would be the ideal solution.

 

[Illuminations06]

If you enjoy thrill rides, go to IOA. Dueling Dragons, Ripsaw falls, Spiderman, Hulk,.... all are AMAZING rides there. On the other hand, US is a great park, plus it has the Mummy (an attraction you wouldn't want to miss). If you can only stay one day at Universal, an option is to buy a one day two park pass.
Whatever you decide, I am sure you will have a wonderful time at Universal!!!

 

[bubba's mom]

I agree....if you want "thrills", definately IOA. The only thrill at US is Mummy (which, btw, is great!!). If you can get a 2park ticket, I agree...bounce between the 2 parks....they are only about a 5 minute (if that) walk apart! US has more shows and "tamer" rides while IOA has more "thrills"....but, I agree w/ everyone else, both parks are great!

 

[lovethemagic]

I think it totally depends on whether you like thrill rides and roller coasters. Although I love the theming of IOA, if you are not a fan of roller coasters and thrill rides, there's not much for you to go on beyond the attractions more geared towards kids.

Universal has more of the Disney-level thrills and few rides that would be scary for an adult and can be a good choice for adults as long as you're not looking for the above.

 

[FayeW]

Only you can decide which park is best. Go to the universal website, and check out the rides and attractions in each park.That should help you make your decision! Have fun, they are both terrific parks! (I could never pick just one!)

 

[JawsCPA]

We just returned from our first trip to Universal. We spent plenty of time in both parks. DH and I (in our 40s) would have to say Studios was the best for us. DH does not do coasters. IOA is great for the water rides. But if I could only pick one, I would pick US. It really depends on what you like.

 

[Gina35]

We usually do both parks in one day (myself, DH, DDs in early 20s, DS 17, DD's bf 24, and DSIL 28). The "kids" would say DEFINITELY do IOA. That park is an absolute must every time we go. They are "so-so" about US. We enjoy both parks. The water rides at IOA are terrific, and so is Spiderman. The kids love the coasters. We've been to Universal in LA and in Fla several times, so we don't mind not seeing all of the attractions. Last time we went, we started in US for Mummy and Shrek and then moved over to IOA, which worked out great. If you've never been to either, I agree that the 2-in-1 day would be best for you. If you must choose, refer to what "Lovethemagic" said. That's the best way to put it: US has more attractions like Disney. IOA has more thrill rides.