What to do with my grandmother?

[bryannem]

I have never been to Universal and my grandmother hasn't been in over 10 years. She surprised me and is taking me to Orlando for 4 days while I am visiting her, so my question is what rides/attractions are appropriate for a 75 year old woman? Should we try to do both parks? Or just focus on Islands for Harry Potter?

Any suggestions would be very much appreciated! I know nothing about touring these parks and I will do some research myself, but I wanted to ask the experts!

 

[TanyaS]

There are several shows that would be no problem whatsoever such as Animal Actors and Horror Make-Up.

In the Disaster attraction, they ask for a "sweet granny" volunteer to act on stage. Get your granny to raise her hand for this, it is a hoot!

Some of the rides are no problem, such as Jaws. Others are clearly roller coasters and only your granny would know if she was up for them.

Some others are more difficult to figure out in advance. For example, the Jimmy Neutron attraction had the seats bounce up and down hard enough that I was a little worried about my own back (I've had surgery on it in the past).

You do get wet on MANY of the rides and shows. Very different from WDW in this respect.

The Harry Potter section has two roller coasters (one not scary, one typical) and the Forbidden Journey ride. I had no problem with the FJ ride what-so-ever, but my friend who gets motion sick didn't care for it at all. You are strapped in pretty well, but the car does tilt and lean and zoom about. Has your grandmother read all the books? Does she love HP? If so, then go for it!

Have a great time! My grandmothers are both deceased, but some of my best memories are of my grandmother taking me to Six Flags each year as a child.

 

[nhrenee]

I think Shrek and Jimmy Neutron have stationary seats.

ET is a very gentle ride.

When are you going?

 

[bryannem]

We will be there February 28-March 2. we are also doing Disney, so trying to decide between 2 days at Universal and 1 at Disney or vice versa.

She has had some health problems recently. I will have to ask her about FJ. I definitely don't want her to pass out on a ride!

I am very excited to go with her. One more adventure for the books.

 

[Metro West]

I think Shrek and Jimmy Neutron have stationary seats.

They do indeed.

 

[keishashadow]

We will be there February 28-March 2. we are also doing Disney, so trying to decide between 2 days at Universal and 1 at Disney or vice versa.

She has had some health problems recently. I will have to ask her about FJ. I definitely don't want her to pass out on a ride!

I am very excited to go with her. One more adventure for the books.

i'd be more concerned re overall stamina, especially in the Florida heat/humidity. how mobile is grandma? lots of walking for somebody possibly out of shape/frail and seats to take a rest are @ a premium back near HP. Might want to discuss whether she's interested in an ECV or WC rental.

 

[Tink2Day]

I think it's WONDERFUL that she's taking you. So much fun.

I'm not quite to that age but I enjoyed sitting in the various areas and soaking up the ambience, especially in WWOHP. I saw a number of people doing the same thing. Sitting there with their Butterbeer or Pumpkin juice just listening to the theme music and seemingly enjoying it, I know I could have stayed in WWOHP and Jurassic Park relaxing that way for a long time!

Most of all enjoy each others company and make sure she takes plenty of rest breaks (my feet STILL hurt 2+ months later but it was )

 

[bryannem]

She's got pretty good stamina and lives in Florida for half the year, but I am going to ask her about the ECV option. I just want her to enjoy herself. I think she will love WWoHP and people watching too.
I think if we just walk around and take in the ambiance, we will be good

 

[minniejack]

I giggle every time I see your title--it reminds me of Throw Mama From the Train for some odd reason or Griswolds Family Vacation.

 

[Tink2Day]

I giggle every time I see your title--it reminds me of Throw Mama From the Train for some odd reason or Griswolds Family Vacation.

Glad I'm not the only one! Nice that it's in reference to something good, because I'll bet that question is asked about SOME grandmothers, by some in a not so nice way
Certainly got my attention and reminded me of a trip we took with a bit of a crowd in the car and everyone asking "Who is going to be Aunt Edna?"