Which park for older adults?

[mhaley]

My parents want to join us for one day when we are visiting US/IOA. We have four full days so taking it slow one day won't bother us. My parents have limited stamina so which park has the least amount of walking? We will be staying at the HRH so I know they can easily go back to the hotel if they want. They really like to be with our kids at the parks but last year we took them to the Magic Kingdom and the walking was waaaay too much. (I still don't think they have fully recovered).

 

[Typhoon John]

Without a doubt, I would say that Universal Studios would be the better of the two. Before I explain, let me say, too, that if they (and you) are interested, Sea World is the most relaxing and casual park in Orlando, IMHO. There's no stress and they can sit and enjoy the shows and atmosphere with the kids and not have to knock themselves out trying to hurry around.
OK, back to US/IOA. I always found Universal Studios to be a really charming park. I like Islands a lot, but for those that went to the Studios from the first year it was opened, the Studios just has a nice feel to it and you can really get into wandering around the set streets. But, since a lot of wandering around is what you want to avoid, there's still plenty of stuff to do that old and young can do together, like Shrek and Earthquake. One hidden gem is the Curious George play area. It's a good place to let kids of all ages run wild while the older crowd can sit back and watch. One thing, though, I told my parent's to go on Back to the Future shortly after it first opened, and it was too much for them. They liked the park a lot, but didn't do intense rides very well. Keep that in mind before strapping anyone into Revenge of the Mummy.
Hope this helps.
- John

 

[damo]

They can easily go on everything except Mummy and Back to the Future at Universal Studios. My elderly parents really enjoy that park. My 80 year old mother likes Back to the Future (but no one else does!!!)

There are stationary seats if they really need those (in the simulator rides). Make sure you ask before you go into the theatres.

 

[the Dark Marauder]

There are stationary seats if they really need those (in the simulator rides). Make sure you ask before you go into the theatres.

Not on BTTF, though.