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 Leave it to Universal to completely out-do even themselves. While the set designs throughout Universal Studios are impressive, Islands of Adventure will simply amaze you. From the minute you enter the gates, you’re off on a journey through exotic lands and fantastic, imaginary places. The lighthouse located just inside the Port of Entry stands towering in the sunlight as a beacon to travelers both coming and going while just beyond stands a massive stone archway, crumbling as if it were centuries old, with the inscription: “The Adventure Begins,” and so it does.
Take Time to Smell the Flowers
Really take the time to look around as you make your way through the parks, both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. The meticulous attention to detail is simply out of this world. Each and every time I am there I am astonished as I notice yet another element and find myself even more amazed at how painstakingly detailed the sets and backdrops truly are. The re-creations of New York, San Francisco, and Hollywood in particular at Universal Studios and the fantasy worlds of the Port, Seuss Landing, Jurassic Park, the Lost Continent, and Marvel Super Hero Island in particular at Islands of Adventure are simply spectacular and absolutely not to be overlooked as you rush to get to the rides. Half of the fun is taking in the incredible surroundings that assist in transporting you to a very different place and time, somewhere where you have no cares, no worries, only adventures (and plenty of fun, of course).
Click here to view an Islands of Adventure park map
 The Port of Entry
Resembling an exotic seaport marketplace full of unique restaurants and shops, the Port of Entry is also the home to many of the services necessary to your survival, or at least a day at the park. Guest services, locker rentals, wheelchair and stroller rentals, as well as restrooms and an ATM are all located just before you reach the archway leading into the park. It’s here that you can pick up park guides, make dining arrangements, and simply get organized for the day.
As you make your way to the far end of the Port of Entry, where yet a second crumbling stone archway stands, you will find yourself standing at the shore of the Great Inland Sea, around which the entire park is laid out. As you stand in the large plaza looking out over the park, contemplating just which direction to take, take into consideration the ages of your children. If they’re younger, consider heading to the right toward Seuss Landing. If they’re older, consider heading to the left toward Marvel Super Hero Island. The mornings are rather quiet (before 11:00 a.m., anyway), so the lines then are relatively reasonable no matter which direction you choose. The afternoons bring out the crowds and the inevitable queues.
Dining in the Port of Entry
Croissant Moon Bakery
*
$-$$ ($$ by the time you add a drink to your order)
Specialty: Pastries and desserts
Indoor Counter service – very limited indoor seating
Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
The Croissant Moon Bakery offers a small selection of sandwiches along with a much larger selection of pastries, muffins, pies, and cakes. Coffee drinks and a variety of cold drinks are available as well. Seating is quite limited with only a few small tables indoors and only a small handful more outside.
Confisco Grill (and Backwater Bar)
**
$-$$
Priority seating is available.
Specialty: Mediterranean, American (kids menu)
Sit-down full service – indoor and outdoor seating
Open for lunch and dinner
Confisco Grill Menu
The casual waterfront atmosphere is inviting and comfortable. A feature that sets this eatery apart (in addition to the really good food that’s served here) is the upstairs seating, offering one of the best views in the park while dining. In addition to a rather varied and better than average appetizer selection, the menu includes sandwiches, wraps, soups, and salads. Pastas and larger entrées (including fish, steak, ribs, and fajitas) are available as well. The kids’ menu includes chicken strips, burgers, ravioli and mac n’ cheese nuggets.
On Thursdays through Sundays (though only seasonally), Spiderman and his friends stop by for a character breakfast buffet. The Backwater Bar is set off to the side a bit, which in my opinion is a plus for both those patronizing the bar as well as those dining at the restaurant. Seating is plentiful both inside and out, offering some of the most spectacular views in the park. This of course is due to its location on the corner between the Port of Entry and the rest of the park.
Cinnabon
*
$
Specialty: gigantic cinnamon buns
Outdoor walk-up snack spot
Open for lunch and dinner
Cinnabon is yet another great place to stop for a breakfast on the go, though those sticky gooey (and gigantic) cinnamon buns make for a great snack as well. There is a small outdoor seating area with a few tables and chairs, but most just get them to go.
Shopping in the Port of Entry
Resembling a bazaar from a far-off land, shops line the entire area from one end to the other, some featuring unique merchandise well worth a look-see.
Port Provisions is a very small shop located just before you reach the park’s exit featuring t-shirts and trinkets for those last-minute souvenir shoppers.
Islands of Adventure Trading Co. is by far the largest shop in the area. It features t-shirts, shorts, and other apparel in addition to a selection of jewelry, sun supplies, and toys.
Magic Rice features a unique line of jewelry.
If you’re in the mood for a treat, Island Market and Export Candy Shoppe features a large selection of sweets and candies.
With its canopies draped above, Ocean Trader Market offers a bit of shade to shoppers perusing the array of decorative items and knickknacks found inside.
The Port of Entry Christmas Shop features holiday ornaments and decorations.
Seuss Landing
Straight out of the pages of one of Dr. Seuss’s classic tales comes the whimsical, colorful, and altogether fanciful land of Seuss Landing. You simply have to see it to believe it.
If I Ran the Zoo
Rating: Fun for little ones
Description: Interactive outdoor play area
Ages: Best for kids under 5.
This whimsical outdoor play area is filled with pint-sized tunnels, slides, and plenty of hands-on activities to keep little ones busy. The wading pool and water play areas practically ensure that someone is going to get wet ,so bring along an extra set of clothes or a bathing suit just in case.
The Cat in the Hat
Rating: Fun +
Description: Indoor ride (track)
Ages: Best for kids ages 4 to 6, but appropriate for any age.
As you spin about making your way along the track in your oversized Seuss-style couch, you find yourself following right along with the classic tale of The Cat in the Hat all the way from beginning to end. Along the way you’ll pass by scenes taken right from the book, each brought to life by some rather unique special effects. While the narration can be heard in the background as you make your way through the story, it is at times difficult to understand.
The movements of the vehicle are a bit jerky, and at times it spins rather suddenly, though overall the experience is relatively mild. If you have really young children the spin can be turned off (just ask the attendant), but my 3-year-old was simply enthralled. There are a few moments of darkness, but the light reappears before anyone has time to be frightened.
One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish
Rating: Fun +
Description: Outdoor children’s ride (moves up and down and all around)
Ages: Appropriate for kids of any age
Universal Express Valid Here
Much like Walt Disney World’s Dumbo or Magic Carpet, One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish moves all around and up and down, but with a slightly unique twist. As you ride, listening to the lyrics and following the instructions is imperative unless you’re prepared to get a bit wet. Riders control whether they move up and down, and if you happen to go up when you should have gone down, watch out! You will get wet as the water squirts and fountains spray as you pass by.
High in the Sky Suess Trolley Train Ride
Rating: Fun
Description: Indoor/Outdoor track ride
Ages: Appropriate for any age
For more than 7 years this attraction stood still, its track hanging high above winding through Seuss Landing, the occasional colorful car whizzing by…empty. After Universal did a bit of tweaking the whimsical ride is once again running taking riders on a journey though seven classic Seusian scenes taken from tales such as .
Be aware that kids who are afraid of heights may find the ride slightly unnerving as a portion of the track runs outdoors, high above the walkways of Seuss Landing, intertwining through a handful of the rides and one of the restaurants.
Caro Seuss-el
Rating: Fun +
Description: Merry-go-round
Ages: Appropriate for any age
Universal Express Valid Here
This is not your ordinary carousel as it is filled with some of the most whimsical Seuss characters you can imagine. This should come as no surprise in Seuss Landing, where everything is extraordinary. Characters from some of the classics come to life from the elephant birds straight out of Horton Hatches an Egg to the cowfish from McElligots Pool, all with blinking eyes and wagging tails. There is stationary seating as well for younger children needing to ride on your lap. (This is one of the very few rides that allows hand-held infants.)
Characters, Characters, Everywhere
What Orlando theme park would be complete without its share of character meet and greets?
Seuss Character Zone
Kids can listen in as two of Dr. Seuss’s classic tales, Green Eggs and Ham and The Cat in the Hat are read aloud at the All You Can Read. Each book is read only once each day, so be sure to check the Adventure Guide to find out which book is being read and at what time.
Dining in Seuss Landing
Filled with a variety of eateries, Seuss Landing has something to satisfy everyone in the family whether you’re in the mood for a meal or simply a snack.
Circus McGurkus Café Stoo-pendous
**
$-$$ ($$ after you’ve added a drink or dessert to your meal)
Specialty: American, Italian (kids menu)
Open for lunch and dinner
Circus McGurkus Café Stoo-pendous Menu
This is the largest restaurant in Seuss Landing (and one of the largest in the park). As its name implies, the billowy and colorful decor resembles that of a Seuss-style circus tent (of grand proportion). Adding to the décor is a giant trapeze suspended from high above with characters swinging and spinning about.
Circus cars line the walls and are filled with booth-style seating while tables fill the large open areas in the center. If you prefer the Florida sunshine, there is a small outdoor seating area as well. The menu includes pizza, pasta, fried chicken, and salads.
Hop on Pop Ice Cream Shop
*
$
Outdoor walk-up snack spot
It should come as no surprise to find an array of ice cream treats on the menu here as the façade is shaped like a gigantic ice cream cone.
Moose Juice Goose Juice
*
$
Outdoor walk-up snack spot
Fresh and frozen fruit drinks, fruit cups, and other snack foods are on the menu here.
Shopping in Seuss Landing
The shops found along Seuss Landing are filled with Seuss souvenirs for kids both young and old.
From t-shirts to toys, you’ll find just the right souvenir for Cat in the Hat fans at Cats, Hats, & Things offers. Those bright red stripes are on everything along with the Cat, Thing 1, and Thing 2.
The Mulberry Street Store is filled with t-shirts and toys.
At All The Books You Can Read Books you’ll find books, books, and more books everywhere you turn.. They stock single volumes and entire sets, CDs, and videos. There’s even plenty of space to sit down for a bit and read one or two.
Snookers & Snookers Sweet Candy Cookers offers plenty of sweets, most of which are sold in bulk.
The Lost Continent
 The transition from one island to the next is practically seamless, which is very impressive considering the extreme differences in architecture and atmosphere between them. The whimsy and cotton-candy colors of Seuss Landing fade, and within moments you’ve entered the next island, finding yourself completely enveloped in its theme, surrounded by the sights, sounds, and surroundings of the Lost Continent. It’s almost as though you have stepped through a portal, transporting you to a completely different world. The audio effects are gradual as well, fading as you near the end of the first island and gradually increasing in volume as you make your way into the next. The soundtracks, which were created specifically for the park, truly reflect each island’s atmosphere, making the entire experience that much more believable.
A blend of mysterious mythical places, the Lost Continent is home to remnants of Atlantis, Merlinwood, and Sinbad’s Village, all filled with regal beasts, legendary creatures, and gods.
Standing guard at the entrance to the Lost Continent (no matter which side you enter from) is an enormous griffin clad in iron and with fiery torches by his side. His presence as guardian of the entryway is rather imposing, but as he too is based in mythology, he is a most appropriate choice. Just beyond lies the ancient ruins of Poseidon’s temple with his tremendous trident fallen nearby, painstakingly and most realistically re-created. Across the way stands a gigantic, cavernous, extinct volcano carved with faces of the titans and streaming with waterfalls.
Poseidon’s Fury
Rating: Fun
Description: Walk-through show
Ages: Best for kids over 8.
Universal Express Valid Here
Beyond the Fallen Hand that still grips the tremendous trident lie the ruins of Poseidon’s temple. As you enter this massive structure, crumbling and in ruins, the lights flicker as if something is awry, but onward you go. The actual experience begins as you are guided through the ruins by an archaeological assistant (as the professor who normally would lead the way has mysteriously gone missing). As you wait in the room for the actual tour to begin, the professor’s assistant (still hoping that the professor will reappear in time) reveals the legend of how the site is haunted by the spirits of those who perished in a fierce battle. Suddenly the spirit of Darkenon is awakened and an unknown chamber is revealed, where of course the show truly begins. The spirits that haunt the ruins begin battling once again, becoming more intense as you find your way to the final chamber.
To get to the chamber, however, you must pass through a tunnel, swirling with thousands of gallons of water--an extremely unique and really cool feat, I must say. You are warned that if you go too far you might never see daylight again, but you press onward to the final chamber. It is here that the stupendous final battle begins.
From beginning to end, the entire experience is fairly intense. The queue makes its way through a very dark and ominous chamber where even on the quietest of days you may find yourself waiting for a rather long time. (This is a show, not a ride, so people queue up early, sometimes up to a half hour prior to the scheduled starting time.)
During the pre-show, references are made to ghosts, curses, and haunting, all of which can trigger great fear in many youngsters. The entire experience of feeling trapped with no way out may also alarm some children. In addition, there are explosions, flames, and moments of sudden darkness all of which can be overwhelming for small children. While there is no movement as in a ride, the entire experience is fairly intense and scary for most children under the age of 8.
As you continue through, you will find yourself right in the middle of an open-air market filled with shops covered by colorful tents and artisans selling their wares.
The Mystic Fountain
While more of a minor distraction than an actual attraction, the Mystic Fountain is well worth a quick stop. It will actually speak to you and at times is rather funny, but watch out if you’re standing too close--you may find yourself getting quite wet. (It is a fountain, after all.)
The Eighth Voyage of Sindbad
Rating: Fun +
Description: Stunt show
Best for kids over 6
Universal Express Valid Here
This live-action stunt show is packed full of amazing special effects, explosions, pyrotechnics, and of course plenty of death-defying stunts. The story line has Sindbad on yet another adventure searching for treasure. He soon finds himself having to battle the evil sorceress Miseria to rescue the beautiful Princess Amora and to make off with the treasure. The set is spectacular as are the effects. It is similar in nature to the Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular at Disney-MGM Studios, but with that famous Universal touch.
The special effects--with all of the loud noises and shooting flames--can be a bit too intense for younger children.. In addition, some of the characters are grotesque enough to frighten. Just up the way, the gnarled and knotted roots form the entrance to the Enchanted Oak Tavern (a great place to stop for lunch), while just across the plaza stand the 2 gigantic stone dragons that guard the entry to the Dueling Dragons Coaster.
Dueling Dragons
Rating: Fantastic
 Description: Thrill ride, roller coaster
Ages: Best for coaster fans over the age of 12
Restrictions: There is a 54” height requirement to ride.
Universal Express Valid Here
Two tremendous stone dragon heads, one fire and one ice, greet you at the entry. A rather long walkway leads to the ruins of a stone castle, where the bulk of the queue waits as well. As is the norm with Universal rides, the stage is set while you wait. A video reveals the story line behind the ride you are about to embark on. It is then that you will have to decide which coaster (or dragon) to ride, each offering riders a very different experience.
If you really want a thrill, ride in the front, where the experience of narrowly missing the intertwined coaster is far more intense. There’s even a separate line just for the front car, though the line is generally pretty short. Both coasters are inverted, so you will find yourself dangling below the track from overhead, with your feet hanging freely below the seat. The entire ride is a series of high-speed near misses as the two tracks intertwine.
Because of the way the tracks are laid out, the ride itself is far more abrupt and jerky than other coasters found in the park, making the experience even more intense.
The Flying Unicorn
Rating: Fun
Description: High-speed roller coaster
Ages: Best for children 6 and up.
Restrictions: There is a 36” height requirement to ride.
Universal Express Valid Here
Touted as a roller coaster for younger children, I can’t say that I would call it tame. Though the theme is innocent enough, it is still a high-speed roller coaster whipping around and up and down the track. It is certainly mild in comparison to the other coasters in the park, making it a good choice for beginners. I would be wary of allowing anyone under 5 to ride.
Merlin can often be seen wandering throughout the marketplace or around the plaza in front of the Enchanted Oak Tavern, happy to stop for a photo or to chat for a bit.
Dining in The Lost Continent
Mythos Restaurant LC
***
$$-$$$
Specialty: American, Seafood, Mediterranean (kids menu)
The giant oak façade is just a preview of what to expect inside. You’ll feel as if you’re eating inside a tremendous tree stump surrounded by gnarled and knotted walls, some of which form booths along the restaurant’s perimeter. In the center of the restaurant, high above, is a small circular skylight of colorful glass, and one of the few sources of outside light.
The entire restaurant is rather dimly lit, with the exception of the outdoor patio just beyond the large back door. A huge fireplace and cauldron can be seen off to the side not too far away from the small tavern area (the Alchemy Bar) set back a bit from the main seating in the restaurant. The menu features hickory-smoked barbeque chicken and ribs along with corn on the cob, corn muffins, and more. The only kids’ meal offered is macaroni and cheese served in a bread bowl. The portions are rather large, so sharing may be an option if the kids prefer something other that mac n’ cheese.
Fire Eaters Grill
**
$ -$$
Specialty: Greek, American
Outdoor walk-up counter service (small amount of outdoor seating alongside)
Open seasonally for lunch and dinner
Fire Eaters Grill Menu
One of the best fast-food spots in the park, this relatively unassuming little stand features gyros, chicken fingers, and salads. A small outdoor seating area is located just alongside with just a few tables and chairs. Located right in between (though across the way) Sindbad and Poseidon, it makes a great stop right before or just after the shows.
The Frozen Desert
*
$
Outdoor walk-up snack spot
This little stand features ice cream treats to cool you off on a hot day.
Shopping in the Lost Continent
Treasures of Poseidon features t-shirts and trinkets, many related to the sea.
The Coin Mint is the place to go for hand-minted coins. Half the fun is watching as the proprietor creates the coins, smashing down the weighted machine to mint them right before your eyes. You can even have it put on a chain if you wish (for an additional cost). Just be aware that the coins are not inexpensive, running from around $25 to more than $65, depending on whether you choose silver or gold, what design you pick, and what size the coin is.
Historic Families Heraldry features some rather fanciful family tree charts (you will need to fill in the details) as well as histories (based on your surname) and coats of arms. In addition, if you find yourself in need of a sword or two, there is an array of choices available.
Star Souls Psychic Reading is filled with fortune-tellers who will read your palm and tell of your future - all for a price, of course.
The Pearl Factory is filled with pearl jewelry. You can even have jewelry made from pearls picked right from an oyster.
The Dragons Keep offers treasures in keeping with its name - pewter dragons, crystal balls, and other mystical trinkets, along with a handful of t-shirts.
Chimera Glass is of course filled with plenty of treasures and trinkets created out of glass
Jurassic Park
Gigantic stone slabs laden with electric fencing and lit by torches mark the entry to the island. As you enter, the dense foliage rustles and the muted sounds of a screeching dinosaur can be heard in the background.
Jurassic Park Discovery Center
Rating: Fun +
 Description: Indoor mini-science center
Ages: Best for kids ages 10 and under, but appropriate for all ages.
A pathway leads down from the main walkway directly to the rather impressive main entry. Take a moment to look out over the lagoon as the view from the large outdoor patio offers a fabulous view of the entire park. The first thing to grab your attention as you enter the cetner is the gigantic T-Rex skeleton that reaches well up into the second level of the building. Kids can scan fossils, examine dinosaur eggs, and even watch as some hatch in the nursery. There are several interactive (and somewhat educational) games to play as well, all of course related to learning about dinosaurs. The second level is dedicated to Dinostore, the Discovery Center’s store, as well as the Burger Digs, an indoor fast-food spot (both listed in more detail below).
Jurassic Park River Adventure
Rating: Fantastic
Description: River raft ride
Ages: Best for kids ages 10 and up (but some kids around 7 or 8 and up may be fine).
Restrictions: you must be at least 42” to ride
The ride begins as an innocent tour through Jurassic Park, offering riders an up-close view of the dinosaurs that roam the island (which I must say are some rather realistic recreations).
Suddenly the raft goes off-course, and you find yourself dangerously close to the raptors. The boat is diverted to the environmental systems building, but don’t think you’re out of harm’s way just yet. The course has now turned dark and ominous. After yet another narrow escape from some of the island’s nastier inhabitants, out of the dark comes the most ferocious threat of all, a gigantic T-Rex. Just moments later you’re plunging down an 85-foot drop, the “longest, fastest, steepest water descent ever built” and in the pitch dark at that.
The dinosaurs are re-created with great realism and can be extremely frightening to younger children. Add to that the period of darkness, the sudden appearance of the gigantic T-Rex, and the very intense drop near the end of the ride, and it’s a sure bet that younger kids will be sleeping with you tonight (and most likely the next few nights as well).
Camp Jurassic
Rating: Fantastic
Description: Interactive themed play area
Ages: Best for kids ages 5 to10 (but there are a few spots appropriate for toddlers tool).
This prehistoric playground is the perfect place to let the kids run around and use up some of their excess energy. Older kids (5 and up) will enjoy this area far more than toddlers, but there is still plenty for younger ones too. The entire area resembles abandoned amber mines, full of tunnels, rope ladders, and subterranean caves to explore.
The slide right near the entrance will keep toddlers happy for hours. There are other slides as well, in addition to waterfalls and an entire water play area full of spitting dinosaurs. The kids can get extremely wet here so a change of clothes (or a bathing suit) may very well be in order. We found Camp Jurassic the perfect spot to wait while some of the kids rode the Pteranodon Flyers just next door.
While there is only one exit, the area is definitely large enough to get lost in, especially for younger children. It’s filled with winding pathways and caves, and after a while it all starts to look the same. Sections of the path are rigged with hidden speakers, and screeching dinosaurs can be heard as you pass by. I would highly suggest accompanying any children under the age of 7. Additionally, the terrain is a bit rough in areas, and younger kids may take a tumble. Having Mom or Dad around would definitely be safer all the way around.
Pteranodon Flyers
Rating: Fair to fun
Description: Hanging glider of sorts
Ages: Best for kids over 8
Restrictions: There is a minimum height of 36” and a maximum height of 56” (unless accompanied by a child meeting the height requirements).
Flying high above the park you’ll swing and sway and fly through the air able to see almost the entire park below. This is by far the shortest ride in the park (only 80 seconds) and at times has some of the longest waits.
While designed for kids, the open feeling as your legs dangle below combined with the sheer height of the ride can be a bit scary for some. Additionally, the birds sway back and forth, accelerating throughout the ride, and though it only lasts 80 seconds is not as gentle as you may think.
Dining in Jurassic Park
Pizza Predattoria
*
$
Specialty: pizza
Outdoor counter service
Open for lunch and dinner
Pizza Prediatoria Menu
For a quick bite you can grab a slice of pizza or a hoagie on the go. If you prefer to sit, there are a few tables right nearby under the cover of umbrellas to protect from the sun.
The Burger Digs
*
$-$$
Specialty: burgers (kids menu)
Indoor counter service
Open for lunch and dinner
The Burger Digs Menu
Located on the upper level of the Jurassic Park Discovery Center, this casual eatery offers burgers, of course, as the main menu item, but you can also order chicken sandwiches. There is plenty of indoor seating as well a small outdoor patio area.
The Watering Hole
As this is simply an outdoor bar, a detailed explanation is really not all that necessary.
Thunder Falls Terrace
**
$-$$
Specialty: American (kids menu)
Indoor counter service
Open for lunch and dinner (seasonally)
Thunder Falls Terrace Menu
This restaurant offers some great views of the Jurassic Park River Adventure ride as it emerges from the containment area. Although it’s a counter-service restaurant, it is one of the prettiest in the park, with several rooms, many of which featuring large picture windows and nice views. In addition, there is an outdoor patio area with a nearby waterfall and lots of lush landscaping. The menu features barbeque chicken and ribs as well as wraps, soups, and salads, many with sides like corn on the cob and roasted potatoes (much like the menu from the Enchanted Oak). Like the Enchanted Oak, however, the prices are a bit high, and while the portions are large and quite delicious, feeding an entire family here can add up to a sizable bill.
Shopping in Jurassic Park
Dinostore, located on the top level of the Jurassic Park Discovery Center, stocks an array of toys, games, books, and puzzles (some educational). There are a few t-shirts, but if it’s clothing you’re looking for, head over to the Jurassic Outfitters for a much larger selection.
Jurassic Outfitters, filled from top to bottom with toys and apparel (and plenty of other souvenirs), has everything little dinosaur fans could ever want. It’s also a great place to grab an extra pair of shorts or a t-shirt if the kids get soaked at Camp Jurassic.
Toon Lagoon
After departing through the gigantic stone gates of Jurassic Park and leaving the dinosaurs behind, you will find yourself surrounded by the colorful comical world of comic strips come to life in Toon Lagoon.
Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls
Rating: Fun +
Description: Flume ride
Ages: Best for kids ages 8 and up
Restrictions: You must be at least 44” to ride
Some old favorites are back in the spotlight as Dudley Do-Right and Snidley Whiplash are at odds once again, setting the stage for this rather unique flume ride. This one’s almost as much fun to watch as it is to ride, and believe me, plenty of spectators line up along the bridge to do just that. Universal has of course added their twist to the flume so it should come as no surprise that there are actually 2 dramatic drops to contend with here, each unique in its own way. In the end, the result is much the same--a gigantic splash (or two)--and while you may not get drenched, you will wet.
The drops are quite intense, much more so than on the average flume ride, and definitely more intense than they appear to onlookers. There are also a few moments where riders are sent below the surface of the water, and though you’re not actually submerged, the special effects can be alarming to younger children.
Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges
Rating: Fun + to Fantastic
Description: Water raft ride
Ages: Best for kids ages 6 and up
Restrictions: you must be at least 42” to ride
Popeye , Bluto, and Olive Oyl are the main characters spotlighted on this water ride. The large round rafts (holding up to 12 passengers) carry you through a series of twists and turns, dips and drops, some packing a pretty good punch. There’s no getting around the fact that this ride will soak you right to the bone, so be prepared ahead of time and bring along extra clothes and sneakers. Drying out after this one will take a while. While not nearly as intense as the drop in Jurassic Park, some of the course may still be a bit to intense for younger kids. If you have kids who hate splashing water, don’t even consider riding this one, but older kids can’t seem to get enough of it.
Me Ship, The Olive
Rating: Fun
Description: Interactive play area
Ages: Best for kids ages 3-8
While the older kids are riding Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges, the younger kids can squirt them with the water cannons from above (not that they’ll notice the additional water). The ship is filled with slides, climbing nets, water squirters, and other little gadgets to play with. While not a particularly large play area when compared to others in the park, it is a great place for kids to let off a bit of pent-up energy.
Dining in Toon Lagoon
The Comic Strip Café
**
$-$$ ($$ by the time you add in a drink in some cases)
Specialty: American (kids menu)
Indoor counter service
Open for lunch and dinner
Comic Strip Café Menu
The Comic Strip Café has a little bit of everything from salads to sandwiches, pizza, and pasta, with a little bit of Chinese and Mexican added in for good measure. There are actually 4 separate counters, each offering its own little menu. As the name suggests, there are comic strips covering the walls.
Cathy’s Ice Cream
*
$
Outdoor snack spot
Hot fudge sundaes are the specialty here, but there are plenty of other ice cream treats on
the menu too.
Marvel Super Hero Island
Walking into Marvel Super Hero Island is like walking straight into a gigantic Marvel Comic book. Everywhere you turn tremendously oversized and rather detailed figures of some of the more famous (as well as infamous) characters are lurking about. The buildings are bursting with color and, somewhat erratically shaped, flat in appearance as if literally taken off the pages of the comics they were created from.
The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man
Rating: Fantastic
Description: 3-D Simulator Ride
Ages: Best for kids ages 6 and up
Restrictions: you must be at least 40” to ride
Universal Express Valid Here
Part ride part 3-D adventure this is the most technologically advanced and complex ride in the park. While waiting in the queue the storyline is set as you are guided through the offices of the Daily Bugle where you discover that the evil Doctor Octopus, and a handful of Spiderman’s arch nemeses are on the loose in New York City, seeking to steal the Statue of Liberty. Before you know it you’re recruited to help save the city from imminent door and destruction. The ride (if you can actually call it that) is simply amazing (pardon the wording here). The cars take you (along a track) spinning and speeding through the streets of New York, right in the middle of all the action as Spider- Man fights it out with all of the evildoers. The vehicles are simulators and even as they move along the track, they also move up and down and all around at the same time.
As you move through the elaborate sets you’re surrounded by some of the most spectacular 3-D effects as the story plays out with you right in the middle of it. The characters, larger than life, feel as if they are coming right at you right along with pieces of the exploding buildings as they fly through the air. Spiderman seemingly lands right on top of your car, giving you quite a jolt as he does, to save the day (and of course you). The biggest and best thrill however comes where else but at the end, when before you know it you’re plummeting from atop of a 400-foot high skyscraper towards the street below. This is all of course a feeling created by visual and 3-D effects combined with the
hydraulics of the vehicle, the ride is no way a roller coaster. It’s by far the best ride in the
park.
The 3-D effects are quite realistic (cartoon characters or not) and when combined with the movement of the vehicle the entire experience can seem rather intense. While ride itself is a bit jerky at times, it’s not overly dynamic. If motion sickness is an issue, the end of the ride will the most problematic as you feel like your being thrown off the building, however if you simply close your eyes (missing one of the best parts however) the feeling should subside. My five year old loved it however I can’t say as I would necessarily recommend it for most kids under seven or eight years old.It’s definitely fairly violent and the characters are somewhat scary for most young kids.
Doctor Doom’s Fearfall
Rating: Fun + to Fantastic (but only for thrill ride junkies)
Description: Freefalling Ride
Ages: Best for kids over at least 12
Restrictions: There is a 52” height requirement to ride
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Doctor Doom has devised a sinister device to extract every ounce of fear from his victims in hopes that the end result, fear juice, will finally rid the world of the Fantastic Four. After being strapped into your seats, your legs dangling below, you’ll be thrust 150 feet up into the air with such a force that it may take your stomach longer to catch up with you than the time the actual ride lasts. After the initial drop, with a few more ups and downs added in for good measure, Doctor Doom may very well have added an ounce or two of fear instead of draining it from you.
The height of the ride alone is enough to scare most kids who really shouldn’t be riding, however if that doesn’t do the trick the screams emanating from the riders may. The initial thrust upwards is extremely forceful and definitely the most frightening part of the ride, especially since most people don’t expect it. Most think it’s the drop they have to worry about.
Storm Force Accelatron
Rating: Fun
Description: Spinning Ride
Ages: best for kids ages 4 and up
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Storm, one of the X-Men’s superheroes, finds herself battling against Magneto™ and once again your right in the middle of all the action. Spinning platforms, spinning cups, it’s dizzying, literally. While I generally don’t like to compare rides between parks, it’s very much like the Tea Cups at the Magic Kingdom, it just has a lot more kick to it. The cup spins within a circular section that spins, within a platform that spins.
Those with motion sickness should probably stay away from this one. While you can control your own car to a degree, the rest you cannot. Otherwise it is a relatively mild ride.
The Incredible Hulk Coaster
Rating: Fantastic
Description: High Speed Roller Coaster
Ages: Best for kids ages 10 and up
Restrictions: you must be 54” to ride
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After making your way through the laboratory where you learn that you may very well be the key to reversing the gamma rays effects. Once you’ve boarded, the climb begins, slowly at first, then…BOOM…your off, thrust through the tunnel at an incredibly dizzying speed. From there you’re off on one of the wildest rides ever built. Between the loops and inversions, and the dramatic dives down into and through the underground trenches you may feel as if you yourself have transformed into the Hulk. The entire ride is incredibly smooth, unlike most other roller coasters that feel jerky and forceful. The entire experience is much easier on the body than you might expect. While my first reaction was not to allow any of my kids on it, after riding it with his father, my seven
year old couldn’t get enough of it (mostly due to the incredibly smooth ride - he couldn’t stand the Dueling Dragons coaster because of the quicker jerkier turns).
This is a high-speed coaster no matter how smooth it may be. The heights it reaches, the loops and inversions it makes, and the dives (that seem as if they are going to send you pounding right into the ground below) are intense. All you have to do is look at it and your stomach will drop a notch (or two).
Character Meet and Greets
Spiderman and the Marvel Super Heroes appear throughout the day (consult your adventure guide for times) for autographs and photo ops. Remember however, the Marvel comics are not cute and cuddly characters and may be somewhat frightening to younger children, especially the villains!.
Dining on Marvel Super Hero Island
Captain America Diner
**
$-$$ (by the time you add in a drink)
Specialty: American (kids menu)
Indoor Diner-style eatery
Open for lunch and dinner
Captain America Menu
With gigantic superheroes looking over your shoulder, you know our safe from harms way here. The menu is pretty much what you would expect from a diner, with burgers, chicken, salads, and sandwiches. There is plenty of indoor seating with a small outdoor area as well.
Chill Ice Cream
Outdoor Walk Up Snack Spot
$
Floats, cones, and sundaes as well as a variety of cold drinks can be found on the menu here.
Cotton Candy
Outdoor Walk Up Snack Spot
$
You’ll find churros, soft pretzels and of course cotton candy on the menu along with a selection of cold drinks.
Café 4
*
$-$$
Specialty: Variety (kids menu)
Indoor Counter Service
Café 4 Menu
Italian favorites such as pizza and pasta, as well as salads and subs are all served here. It’s a rather popular spot as it is so close to the Hulk however there is plenty of seating both indoors as well as out. Just next door (through the hole in the wall- put there intentionally of course) is an arcade full of games, just be prepared to pay a bit extra to play.
Shopping in Marvel Super Hero Island
The Spiderman Shop features a mostly t-shirts and toys
Oakley of course features an array of better sunglasses, with a handful of other accessories as well.
The Marvel Alterniverse Store is filled with t-shirts, comic books, and collectibles.
Character Meet and Greets at Islands of Adventure
It would seem that every park has gotten into the act of character meet and greets, and Universal Orlando is no exception. Kids (and adults) can get up close and personal with plenty of friendly characters throughout the park. Check the Attractions & Show Times Guide (be sure to pick one up as you enter the park) for locations and schedules as they can change daily. You’ll generally find a handful of characters milling around throughout the park however Kings Row and Comic Strip Lane (located in Toon Lagoon) is one of the parks character hotspots (and plenty more taking part in the Toon Trolly Beach Bash).
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