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Review: Orlando Universal Studios & Island of Adventure

Universal Orlando Globe--directly in front of park

Two Parks for Everyone!

Revised 4/2021

Dear Polite Traveler,

To celebrate my 60th birthday, my husband and I decided to visit the Orlando Universal Studios.  I was a bit concerned about our choice since we are not "roller coaster" people anymore and that seemed to be the focus of the park.  However, I wanted—more like needed—to see and do everything Harry Potter.  Universal Orlando delivered on that essential and more.  Surprisingly, we both loved every single moment of our four-day visit. 

Note: Follow CDC and Universal’s guidelines when visiting.  Always wear your face mask when in public.   



It’s not all about the rides!

Also surprisingly, this theme park is not all rides.  It is full of real movie sets.  Each is like a unique world where the guest can immerse him or herself deeply into the experience.  For example, guests can meet and mingle with “Spider-Man “and many other superheroes on the Island of Adventure.

Shows and more shows!

Most are live theater as if the action was happening at that very moment and we, the guests, are part of the action.  The actors are skilled, believable, and entertaining.  Plenty of music as well. 

Speaking of music (and dance), the wizarding world's most popular performers Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees treat guests several times each day inside Diagon Alley.   Alternately, the wizarding world may have Celestina and the Bandshees, but The Blues Brothers rock an entire block in "New York".  People of all ages danced and sang to the songs delivered perfectly by these talented performers.  (video)

 But what about the rides?

There are rides for everyone in this park.  Some rides are a bit too violent for small children and older guests like me.  However, we found many that we could experience.  Since Universal is a studio, not just a theme park, most of the rides included a “story “which we found enchanting.  For example, inside the “Transformers” 3-D ride, we joined Optimus Prime and the Autobots fight Megatron and the Decepticons.  

How about those with disabilities?

Guest Assistance Pass for those with disabilities 

The Universal park designers appeared to have everyone in mind when planning this park.  There are ramps and elevators everywhere for those in wheelchairs.  Those with “invisible” disabilities like me—I have MS

—found assistance as well.  Universal offers a “Guest Assistance” pass.  This pass allows people like me to skip the mainline if the wait is more than 30 minutes.  Often, I was allowed to skip the line anyway.  No one wanted me to stand in line.

Note: please do not abuse this generous gift if able-bodied.  It’s not fair or polite to Universal or to those who tire easily.

Final Notes

The parks are squeaky clean and beautiful.  Employees are helpful, polite, and approachable.  Everyone appeared to want to make our visit amazing—and it was. 
This is a park for everyone—old, young, with or without children.  There is something for everyone inside the gates.  Will we return?  Absolutely! 

Please Read

Venue Review: Sapphire Falls Resort

Dining on the Cheap in Universal Orlando

Review: Entertainment at Universal Orlando 

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