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 Take one part production studio, two parts theme park, and add a dash of Steven Spielberg - the result: Universal Studios. State-of-the-art rides and shows based on the hottest blockbuster movies along with back-lot sets that would rival those actually used to make the motion pictures themselves bring the movies to life for everyone to experience.
Universal Studios is divided into 6 individual “sets” all surrounding the center lagoon, in addition to the “Front Lot” (which is home to most of the park’s guest services). Just think, you can travel from New York to San Francisco and Hollywood without ever having to hop on a plane, though a bit of walking is involved. Each set surrounds you with the sights, sounds, architecture, and atmosphere of the location it was based on, right down to the tiniest of details, making you feel as if you might really be there instead of in Florida.
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 a Universal Studios park map
The Front Lot
As you enter the park’s main entrance you find yourself standing in the Front Lot, the perfect place to take a moment or two to get organized for the day. There is an ATM in case you need some extra cash, and a mail drop in case you forgot to mail that postcard from the hotel. The kids can take a last-minute bathroom break (no doubt the first of many) before you start off for the day, and you can rent a stroller to hold all of your stuff and of course your kids. Lockers, for storing all the stuff you don’t feel like lugging around all day, are located on both sides as you walk in, with larger ones over to the left.
The lockers, rented by the day, cost around $8 for the smaller ones and $10 for the larger ones. Telephones, restrooms, guest services, as well as the first aid station, studio audience center, and family and vacation services are also all located here.
If there is a show currently taping, there will be a sign posted right out in the middle of the plaza, but if you just can’t wait until you get there to find out, you can call ahead (though only about 2 weeks at the most) to see what will be happening while you’ll there (407-224-6355). To get tickets - yes, they are free - head over to the Studio Audience Center or guest services and they can help. Just inside the park off to the right is a small booth where you can make dining arrangements for anywhere in the park or even in the entire resort.
Production Central
With the huge soundstage buildings all around you, you may feel as if you are in the middle of the studio’s back lot instead of in a theme park, but it’s all just part of the atmosphere.
Jimmy Neutron’s Nicktoon Blast
Rating: Fun + to Fantastic
Description: Motion simulator (high-speed space chase)
Universal Express Pass Valid Here
Ages: Best for kids ages 4 and over though appropriate for kids of any age
Restrictions: Kids under 40” must sit in the stationary seating
Jimmy Neutron, one of Nickelodeon’s most popular characters, has recently made his way to the big screen right here at Universal Studios Florida. You will find yourself in a large open theater-style setting, with a huge screen before you and the seats sectioned off into several “ships,” each able to accommodate several riders.
After one of his wacky inventions has been stolen by the evil egg alien Ooblar the Yokian, Jimmy, with a little help from his Nickelodeon friends (and you, of course), must rescue both his invention and the world. The kids will love the very familiar characters, including Sponge Bob, the Rugrats, and other favorite Nicktoons, and they will certainly appreciate all the action. The motion-based seating will make you feel as if you are riding right along, bumping, jerking, tilting, and lurching all the way. To give you a better idea, think of it as a far less intense theater version of Back to the Future: The Ride.
There is a small interactive play area as you exit the ride with a few fun activities, though a few minutes should be more than enough before moving on.
 The ride simulates a high-speed chase and so accelerates and stops very suddenly, tilts, dives, and bumps about rather forcefully. It may be a bit too intense for some children. What’s great for younger kids, though, is the large open-theater setting, making the whole experience a bit less scary than other simulator rides. There is a stationary seating area if you think the kids just aren’t quite ready for such a jarring experience, or if they are at all prone to motion sickness. (For kids beginning to feel queasy, looking at something stationary like the wall or the seat should help them get their bearings and feel a bit better.)
Shrek 4-D
Rating: Fun +
Description: Mild motion seating/3-D movie
Universal Express Pass Valid Here
Ages: Best for kids ages 4 and over.
In true Universal style, the pre-show is entertaining in itself as Mirror narrates, and Pinocchio along with the Three Little Pigs find themselves held captive by the ghost of Lord Farquaad until they reveal the whereabouts of Princess Fiona. Once the story line is set, it’s through the doors, into the theater, and on to the show. Donning your “Orge Vision” glasses, you sit back and experience the adventure. The movie is more of a continuing adventure picking up on the original story line but not reliving it. It is quite well done, and for those who enjoyed either movie, this ride is bound to be a hit.
The seating is motion-based, but it is extremely mild compared to full-fledged motion-simulator rides. But there are loud noises, 3-D effects, and a few of those touchyfeely sensory effects, which may frighten younger children, though preschoolers should still fare pretty well. If 3-D effects are a cause for alarm, simply leave the glasses off, and if the sensory effects are an issue, there is one in particular that may cause a great deal of trouble. Trust me, you’ll know when it’s about to happen, but by then it’s too late, and if your kids don’t like spiders (though it’s only a very momentary feeling), they may be rather upset as the creepy little eight-legged creatures seem to scamper about them.
So You Know:
Sensory effects add a little kick to a handful of the rides and attractions throughout the parks, but sometimes kids who can handle the scariest and wildest of roller coasters that have them practically hanging from their feet hundreds of feet in the air can find a simple tickle or squirt of water or even a shot of air absolutely frightening. This is probably simply because it is unexpected, but whatever the reason, these effects can freak out even the biggest thrill-ride junkie (under the age of, say, 8). I will never forget sitting outside of one such attraction (at a different park) as my two youngest children napped and watching as my three older children, then 5, 7,and 8, came out, each one sobbing because the touchy-feely effects had just completely terrified them. Who knew?
Just across from the exit kids can have a souvenir photo taken with Donkey and Shrek - for a few extra dollars, of course. You’ll also find a spot to make monsters out of your little ones. Monster make-up face painting and temporary tattoos are located just nearby as well (down from the Universal Studios Monsters Café - appropriate, don’t you think?).
The face painting runs around $10 to $12, depending on the design.
Dining in Production Central
Monsters Café
**
$-$$
Speciality: Pizza, pastas, chicken (kids menu)
Open (Seasonally) for lunch and dinner
Indoor, Cafeteria style
Monster’s Café Menu
The only restaurant in all of Production Central is the Monsters Café. The entire restaurant is a celebration of the monster movie classics, full of black-and-white photos and plenty of movie memorabilia. Their menu offers a variety of choices from chicken to pasta and pizza, and the prices typically hover around $6 to $9 for a meal. The life-size statues, monster memorabilia, and monster movie theme carried throughout the 4 large themed eating areas may be a bit much for younger kids, but older kids - say, over 6 or so - will most likely get a real kick out of it.
There is a little-known entrance to the Hard Rock Café just near the old Nickelodeon Studios are that gives you the option of eating there without having to leave through the park’s main gates and walk all the way around through CityWalk to get there.
Shopping in Production Central
It shouldn’t surprise you that the very first thing you come upon after entering the gates is the absolute largest store in the park, the Universal Studios Store. Try to think about it not so much as the first thing you come upon but rather the last thing. With a convenient location just near the exit (or entrance, if you must), it is a great place to shop for souvenirs on your way out of the park. You can find a little bit of everything here, from tshirts to plush toys, mugs, jewelry, and more.
On Location is the place for photo supplies, sundries, sunglasses and tote bags, as well as some small souvenirs like t-shirts and those last-minute pick-up items.
Studio Sweets will tempt your will power with giant cookies, candies, and sweets. Most of the candy is sold in bulk, but there are some neat boxed treats to remind you of Florida, including chocolate and gummy alligators.
Nickstuff is filled top to bottom with everything Nickelodeon, offering clothing, toys, games, and plenty more.
Shrek’s Ye Old Souvenir Shoppe features (what else?) Shrek t-shirts and toys, but you’ll find plenty of other neat Shrek stuff as well.
So You Know
Be forewarned: I’ve learned from much personal experience that if your kids see something anywhere in the park that they absolutely must have, it’s best not to turn to them and say, “We can get that at that great big store back by the exit on our way out.” It may be true, but more than likely it isn’t. Many of the stores, especially the ones located just beyond the ride exits, carry some very unique merchandise not found elsewhere in the park. Unless you don’t want your kids to have the item, buy it right then and there.
You may save yourself having to huff it halfway around the entire park (because you know very well that kids are not always particularly reasonable when they are overstimulated and overtired). If your objection is that you don’t want to carry it around all day because of its size, value, or fragility, have it delivered back to the Universal Studios Store (at no extra charge), and you can pick it up on your way out. If you’re staying at one of the Universal Orlando resorts, you can even have it delivered to your room.
As a Note:
Production Central and New York both require a bit of backtracking if you intend on seeing every last bit of them. While the main attractions are located right on the main walkway, a handful of interesting sites are located along the side streets. The other sets are designed a bit better allowing you to simply follow the walkways around the lagoon.
New York
Twister…Ride It Out
Rating: Fun
Description: Walk-through/standing attraction
Universal Express Valid Here
Ages: Best for kids over 10 (but some kids 7 and over may fare well); PG-13 rating.
As you make your way through the winding queue you’ll come across some rather large movie props have been carefully placed about, and a video plays on the monitors above, running tapes of history’s most terrifying tornados complete with tornado trivia questions flashing across the bottom. In the brief and rather intense introduction that plays on the large screen once you’ve entered the building, a minute or two is spent on the background of the blockbuster movie Twister. This is followed by a brief look at the real deal-- narrated by Helen Hunt and Bill Paxton--showing you the sheer intensity and power associated with tornados. Then it’s on to what appears to be a stage set straight out of the movie itself. Suddenly it becomes difficult to differentiate your tour through the set and the reality of being smack in the center of an actual tornado. You may want to quite literally hold onto your hats for this part since, as you make your way onto the porch, a 5-story-tall tornado suddenly appears out of nowhere before your eyes, bringing with it the intense winds, pounding rains, and deafening sounds that such a storm would actually produce. This one will blow you away--literally.
Your first hint should be the PG-13 rating--this attraction (as it’s not really a ride) is simply too intense for younger kids. It is not so much the special effects alone, but the overall feeling of being caught up in a wild and raging tornado. Now, this is not to say that kids say around 8 or so couldn’t handle the experience--most probably could. However, this is where you as a parent have to use your judgment regarding your kids’ personalities. If loud noises, explosions, fire, intense wind, and rain are at all a cause for alarm, then this would be a particularly poor way to start the day. Just the concept of being trapped in the middle of a whirling, twirling twister (which is re-created in a quite realistic way) may be too upsetting for young children and some older ones as well.
The Blues Brothers
Rating: Fair to Fun
Description: Outdoor show
Ages: Best for kids ages 10 and up
In traditional Blues Brothers fashion, Jake and Elwood strut about the stage, belting out rock n’ roll tunes, topping it all off with their infamous and rather loud rendition of “Soul Man.”
Revenge of the Mummy
Rating: Fantastic
Description: Indoor high-speed roller coaster
Universal Express Valid Here
Ages: Best for kids ages 10 and up.
With the popularity of The Mummy and The Mummy Returns, it is no surprise that Universal jumped all over the opportunity to bring The Mummy back to life once again, this time right here in Orlando. This ride is unprecedented (which should in no way surprise you at Universal). This ride was 10 years in the making, and its technologically advanced propulsion design and spectacular array of special effects combine to create a ride that is quite literally like no other in the world.
You will find yourself transported to the ancient Egyptian tomb of Imhotep, shadowy special effects surrounding you to create a feeling of foreboding as you make your way farther into the chambers and catacombs. You will be warned to go back and to heed the curse of the Mummy, but by then it is too late as you suddenly halt only to be hurled backward into the darkness, drawn farther into the depths of the terrifying underworld of Imhotep and the ancient Egyptian gods. The entire ride is in shadowy darkness and a spectacular set, creating the illusion that you have become part of the adventure as the coaster pitches and dives its way through the ancient tomb desperately trying to escape the curse. But beware--just when you think it’s over, the Mummy will prove he isn’t willing to release you quite yet.
The absolutely amazing special effects, including the use of some extremely advanced robotics, flames, and fireballs, along with the advanced state-of-the-art technology used to create the coaster itself make the entire experience second to none. Thanks to the high-tech magnetic propulsion system, the ride itself is extremely smooth, making the experience just that much better.
There may be no inversions or loop-de-loops here, but the thrust backward early in the ride comes with no warning, and the entire coaster itself is a real doozy. The actual ride itself aside, the visual and sensory effects are enough to cause panic in most adults, let alone young kids, no matter what their age. The entire ride takes place in almost utter darkness, with every twist and turn a surprise. Fireballs and robotic figures seem to jump right at you.
Universal has touted this as a “psychological thrill ride,” and believe me when I say that this ride will confront riders with some of their greatest fears, from their fear of the dark, of bugs, and of fire, to the fear of falling, and absolutely the fear of being out of control.
Dining in New York
Finnegan’s Bar and Grill
**
$$-$$$
Specialty: Irish (kids menu)
Indoor Full Service with both a Bar and Dining Area
Open for lunch and dinner
Finnegan’s Bar and Grill Menu
Finnegan’s is part Irish pub--offering ale, beer, and other similar spirits topped off with live entertainment that an actual Irish pub might offer--and part full-service restaurant. Specialties include shepherd’s pie, bangers and mash, Irish stew, and what Irish restaurant would be complete without corned beef and hash? While it is a pretty decent restaurant, it is really not a place I would head with kids since there are so many other great choices throughout the park that would be more appropriate in terms of atmosphere and kid-friendly fare.
Louie’s Italian Restaurant/Starbucks
***
$-$$
Specialty: Italian (kids menu)
Indoor, Cafeteria Style
Open for lunch and dinner
Louie’s Italian Restaurant Menu
Italian fare from pizza to pastas (soups and salads too) will please everyone in the family, and the atmosphere is strictly casual. You may feel as if you were dining at one of the little familyowned Italian eateries found along the streets of New York itself. The decor is mixed, one section with black-and-white tile and red-checkered curtains at the windows, strands of lights strewn across the exposed duct and wood ceilings, while the other features golden accents and stamped ceilings. The entire restaurant is open and airy, with oodles of seating and a friendly feel about it. If you’re in need of a pick-me-up, there’s a Starbucks off in the back corner featuring their usual array of specialty coffee drinks. There’s a small outdoor seating area on the side facing San Francisco.
Turkey Leg Alert
There’s a turkey-leg cart just across the street from Louie’s if you prefer to walk around drumstick in hand. They also sell drinks and chips. The combo (turkey leg, soda, and chips) will run you a bit over $8.
Shopping in New York
Aftermath, aptly named, is located just beyond Twister…Ride It Out. Of course it features everything from t-shirts to toys, and practically anything else you can think of that has to do with cows, pigs, trucks, and tornados. You’ll even find a handful of country-style kitchenware.
Sahara Traders wares may not exactly be pharaoh’s treasure, but t-shirts and toys and costume jewelry are plentiful here.
While touring the streets of New York, you or your kids can get a psychic reading (running anywhere from $15 to $75), get temporarily tattooed (running anywhere from $5 on up), have henna body art drawn almost anywhere on your body, or have a caricature drawn for a great souvenir (running between $15 and $36).
San Francisco/Amity
Once again Universal has made the impossible possible, combining San Francisco’s Embarcadero and Fisherman’s Wharf districts with the small New England coastal village of Amity, and thanks to the set designers and movie magic that Universal is so well known for, one set just flows seamlessly right into the next. One minute you are walking along past the Ghiradelli chocolate factory seemingly plucked right from Fisherman’s Wharf, the next you are standing next to the catch of the day along the shores of a small New England town, which in this case happens to be a tremendous shark hanging from the hook for all to see.
Disaster
Rating: Fantastic
Description: Demonstration/simulator ride
Universal Express Valid Here
Ages: Best for kids ages 7 and up
As you enter the San Francisco subway system, you find yourself guided through 2 separate theaters, the first of which offers the audience a glimpse into how some of today’s movies use some rather unique special effects to create some of their most spectacular scenes. A series of small sets are displayed to show how some of the more spectacular scenes from the original movie were filmed. Previously Charlton Heston--by video, of course--provided a glimpse into how the special effects were created and the amazing stunts were preformed for the original motion picture that he starred in over 20 years ago, but times have demanded a more updated presentation. Live demonstartions now let you in on a variety of special effects secrets used in todays movie making before moving on to the main event. Then it’s on to the main event. After boarding your subway car bound for San Francisco, the lights begin to flicker, the car begins to rumble, and before you know it you are in the middle of an earthquake of disastrous proportion (8.3 on the Richter scale, to be precise).
Everything soon begins to fall apart all around you as the car heaves and shakes, the ground buckling beneath you. The next thing you know a tanker truck is crashing in from above where the ceiling has begun to crumble and cave in, and suddenly flames are erupting and water starts rushing in, flooding the subway. Then, as fast as it all began, it ends, and the calm returns, though it may take your stomach a few additional minutes to realize this. A really unique feature is how the subway cars each move independently, so as one is heaving upward, the other is crashing downwards creating a much more realistic effect.
The entire experience of being in the middle of an earthquake can rattle younger riders who still have difficulties telling fantasy from reality, especially with such realistically re-created effects. Even individually the special effects (falling buildings, crashing flood waters, and erupting flames) are a bit much for younger kids, and the movement of the subway car is rather violent and jerky, shaking you about quite aggressively.
 JAWS
Rating: Fun +
Description: Boat ride
Open seasonally
Universal Express Valid Here
Ages: Best for ages 7 and up
The great white shark has come back once again to terrorize the small New England town of Amity. After making your way through the boat dock, you will board a small boat for your tour of the Amity harbor. Passengers soon realize that they are in very real danger of falling prey to the gigantic great white that lurks within its waters once again. A boat just ahead is found sinking, with the remains of another not too far away. Suddenly the calm of the water is broken as Jaws springs to life, jumping out of the water and heading--where else?--straight for you. And just in case you’re wondering--yes, you will get wet, maybe even soaked.
The idea of being attacked by a shark and in the middle of open water may be enough in itself to wreak havoc with younger kids, not to mention some older ones as well. The boat is tossed about with a fair amount of force, but the tilting is what may prove the most bothersome. In addition, there are some rather loud explosions and pyrotechnic effects, all of which tend to bother younger kids.
Dining in San Francisco/Amity
There are plenty of eateries in San Francisco and Amity offering everything from a quick bite on the go at the Midway Grill to a full-fledged sit-down meal at Lombard’s Seafood Grill.
Richter’s Burger Co.
**
$-$$
Specialty: Burgers, chicken (kids menu)
Indoor Counter Service
Open for lunch and dinner
Richter’s Burger Co. Menu
Designed to look as if it has already felt the effects of San Francisco’s earthquake just up and across the way--with its walls and ceilings showing some wear and tear, crumbling just a bit here and there--this fast-food eatery offers the family-friendly fare of burgers, chicken, fries, shakes, and soft drinks. It is a great place with kids as the atmosphere is casual, the service is fast, and the menu is sure to be a hit with every age. With offerings like the Big One, the Aftershock, the San Andreas, and the Faultline, you have to chuckle a bit at the menu. There’s a small seating area up on the second level just toward the back of the restaurant, with the downstairs seating actually running all the way through and into the back of the store next door. Only a small number of seats are located outdoors.
Chez Alcatraz
*
$
Specialty: Seafood and sushi
Outdoor walk-up counter service
Open for lunch and dinner
Chez Alcatraz Menu
As if it were located right along Fisherman’s Wharf, this outdoor stand offers walk-up service with a small amount of outdoor seating. They offer a menu that includes shrimp cocktail, California rolls, chili cheese bread bowl, supreme nachos, and a turkey wrap platter. Most kids will find the choices a bit farther along more appealing.
Lombard’s Seafood Grille
***
$$-$$$
Specialty: Seafood and steak (kids menu)
Indoor (with outdoor seating available) Full service dining
Open for lunch and dinner
Lombard’s Seafood Grill Menu
Located out on the pier overlooking the waterfront as if you were right on Fisherman’s Wharf itself, Lombard’s Seafood Grill offers great food from appetizers to deserts, a fabulous view from its large glass windows looking out onto the water, along with a casually elegant atmosphere with its brick interior and wrought-iron accents. The small indoor pond, surrounded by an ornate wrought-iron fence, features a handful of fish. The menu is varied and fairly extensive with a concentration on seafood, but they also offer steak, chicken, salads, along with a children’s menu for those who wish to attempt it. While it is truly a great restaurant, I can’t say it is a particularly family-friendly choice, as it caters to adults seeking a more upscale atmosphere. There is outdoor patio seating that runs the length and wraps around to the back of the restaurant, while indoors there are two levels of tables.
This one’s best for kids over 8 or so (or at least those who can sit through a fullservice meal at an upscale restaurant without incident).
San Francisco Pastry Co.
**
$
Specialty: Pastry, desserts, drinks and a limited selection of sandwiches
Counter service (with very limited outdoor seating)
Open for lunch and dinner
This little pastry and coffee shop across from Earthquake--The Big One offers some tempting treats to get you through until your next meal--though I have to say some of the offerings are large enough to be a meal in themselves. They also offer a small selection of sandwiches and a fruit plate if the treats are not enough to tempt you, but the treats seen through the glass cases are hard to resist. Coffees and soft drinks are available to wash it all down. There is no seating inside, but a small covered patio in front offers a seat in the shade while you eat your treats.
There’s also seating along San Francisco’s waterfront just ahead. Kids may appreciate a handful of the desserts, possibly even the fruit plate, but they’ll probably prefer the ice cream shop a bit farther along
Boardwalk Snacks (previously the Boardwalk Funnel Cake Co.).
*
$
Specialty: Snacks
Outdoor counter service
Open for lunch and dinner
If you’re in the mood for a gigantic funnel cake, this is just the place. With a variety of toppings to choose from, it may be hard to pick just one, and the whipped cream is just an added bonus. If you’re looking for something to cool you down, soft-serve ice cream is on the menu as well.
Midway Grill
*
$
Specialty: Snacks, hot dogs, hoagies
Outdoor counter service
Open for lunch and dinner
Midway Grill Menu
Located just near the Midway at the Boardwalk area in Amity (hence the name), this outdoor stand offers a quick pick-me-up or lunch on the go. Nathan’s hot dogs, Italian sausages, cheese steaks, and fries are the fare here. If you prefer to sit, there are a few picnic benches along the side.
So You Know:
Having the choice of a wonderful little walk-up food stand is great when you’ve got kids in tow. Younger kids don’t always want to eat or aren’t always hungry when the rest of the family is, and it offers a chance to pick something up on the go when they do finally decide that they’re hungry. The last thing you need to do is pay full fare for a big lunch at one of the restaurants when you know very well that they have absolutely no intention of eating it. Knowing that there are other options for a quick onthe- go snack (or meal) will put your mind at ease. So don’t worry, when the kids are hungry there are plenty of these stands throughout the park, and the kids most certainly won’t go hungry.
Shopping in San Francisco/Amity
San Francisco Candy Factory offers an array of bulk candy and boxed sweets, cookies, and other tempting treats.
Quint’s Surf Shack has a small selection of resort wear and surfer-themed clothing. You can find some neat beachy jewelry and knick-knacks as well.
Oakley’s specialty is sunglasses, which are very much in order in Florida. If you want better than souvenir-style sunglasses, than this is the place to go. There is another Oakley outpost in Islands of Adventure.
World Expo
Compared to the rest of the park, the World Expo is far less spectacularly themed. The buildings that house Men in Black Alien Attack, as well as the Back to the Future The Ride are rather plain-looking and modern in appearance, but it’s not always what’s outside that counts.
Fear Factor Live
Rating: Fun +
Description: Stunt show in a stadium setting
 Ages: Best for kids ages 8 and up
Universal Studio’s newest show is a direct relative of the blockbuster TV show Fear Factor. Bringing reality TV to the theme parks …well, only Universal could pull that one off successfully. Casting for the show is done earlier in the day, at least an hour and 10 minutes ahead of time. A long list of criteria must be met to participate. Be sure to check the Web site for the most up-to-date details. The show begins by introducing each of the 6 contestants via the large monitor set in the cityscape set. The host teases the audience with hints of what stunts they’re about to attempt, and the show begins. Many of the stunts seen on TV are performed, just in a more structured environment and on a far smaller scale. Be prepared for wild stunts, pyrotechnics, icky bugs, and gruesome, gross dietary delights. Audience members who volunteer to participate may wish they hadn’t as no one is immune to the stunts that involve creepy crawly creatures or slimy sludgy smoothies. If you’re a fan of the show, you’ll likely like the live version, though young kids (under 5 or 6 years old) may not be so impressed.
Men in Black Alien Attack
Rating: Fantastic
Description: Interactive indoor ride
Universal Express Valid Here
Ages: Best for kids ages 6 and up.
Restrictions: Must be at least 42” tall.
 The lines can get long at this one, as it is by far one of the most popular rides in the park and with good reason. The line outside winds around it would seem forever at times, but once inside (and usually faced with yet another lengthy line) you are distracted and entertained by rather amusing aliens taking over the building. Once you have boarded the vehicle, it is your job to rid the world and the universe of these invading alien bugs as you spin and whiz through the Manhattan cityscape zapping them with your lasers (before they zap you, that is--which, by the way, makes you spin even more).
Now, in addition to zapping those crazy creatures for points, you will be competing against your fellow recruits, and your score will determine the outcome of your ride, with a dozen different scenarios possible. The ride, the robotics (or animatronics, as they’re called), and the special effects all combine to make for a really cool ride. This is similar to Buzz Lightyear over at Walt Disney World, but let me remind you that this is Universal Orlando, so there much more zip and zing to it. The ride is more intense, and the scenery and animatronics are far more edgy (not to mention icky and gooey). If you have seen the movie, you’ll have a pretty good idea what to expect. The whole idea is to make you feel as if you are right in the middle of the battle with those big bugs, and believe me, it comes across rather convincingly.
The ride spins and moves about with a fair amount of speed, and at times it is quite jerky and abrupt, though if you have the smaller kids sit in the center they should fa re much better. There is some light from the zapping lasers and cityscape scenery, but most of the ride takes place in a very dimly lit to dark atmosphere, and add to it some (well, over 120) rather convincing creatures popping up and out at you from pretty much everywhere, with a particularly humungous and hideous creature waiting for you near the end of the ride, and it could certainly be cause for panic in some younger children. The aliens are much more of a concern here than the ride itself. Luckily, this is a ride with the Child-Swap option available just in case. If you have made it through the line and some of your kids are antsy from the pre-show or the aliens they see en route to the ride itself, this is a good indication that riding would not be such a hot idea, and if that is the case you can let the attendant know before you get to the boarding area and head for the Child Swap area instead (or out altogether if necessary).
So You Know:
It’s now required that you use the electronic lockers just outside the entrance if you have any bags or belongings. If you’re heading here from Amity, you may miss this as it’s not obvious until it’s too late and you’re about to enter. The large sign is posted and is far more obvious if you’re coming from the other direction (from Hollywood Boulevard and Back to the Future The Ride). Either way, it takes a few minutes to use the lockers, which require that you carefully read the directions. They’re electronic - no keys necessary. Your fingerprint (taken by placing it on the screen) is your key. The screen takes you through how to work the lockers and tells you exactly which locker to use. DON’T take the wrong locker by mistake. There are lots of other people milling about doing the same thing you are, and with several screens (each specific to a section of lockers) if you’re not paying attention in your rush to get to the ride, you may claim the wrong number locker and when you come to retrieve your items your fingerprint won’t work.
Back to the Future The Ride
Alert: On March 30th, 2007, Back to the Future became part of Universal Studios past. Even though the attraction is one of the best in the park (at least in my opinion), Back to the Future is closing down, and this time for good.
The Simpsons Ride (Opening Summer 2008)
Rating:
Description: High-speed motion simulator/movie (indoor)
Universal Express Valid Here
Ages: Best for kids ages at least 6 or 8 and up
Restrictions: You have to be at least 40” tall
The Simpsons have come to Universal Orlando – more specifically to Universal Studios. Replacing “Back to the Future, The Ride” in 2008, The Simpsons Ride will have guests rocketing along with the Simpson family on a hysterical, almost unimaginable adventure.
They’ll experience a side of Springfield previously unexplored as they enjoy the new ride’s interpretation of thrill rides, dark rides and “live” shows that make up a newfantasy amusement park dreamed up by the show’s cantankerous Krusty the Clown. This is unlike other simulator rides that have a more theater-style setting such as Jimmy Neutron or Star Tours at Walt Disney World, all of which provide a level of comfort as you are able to look elsewhere to get your bearings. Here your only option is to close your eyes. Being seated in front heightens the experience.
Assuming this ride retains a good portion of its predecessors qualities (remember Back to the Future: the Ride?), it is a forceful ride. The abrupt stops and starts, sudden pitching and diving, and banking turns are intense and can bump even an adult around the vehicle, so you can imagine how a smaller child may feel. Segments of the movie may be inappropriate for younger kids, but in all likleyhood, they would already have been warded off by the height requirement. If motion sickness is cause for concern, stay off of this one. Although you can momentarily calm the feeling by looking away from the screen or closing your eyes, that won't help more than a fluttering feeling at this ride, unless you plan on turning your head for the entire experience (and even that probably won't help, as the ride is so aggressive).
So You Know
If by the time you have reached this point in the park, you are in need of refreshments, there is a great little place to cool off right between Men in Black Alien Attack and Back to the Future The Ride where you can grab a soft drink and a spritz of cold water under the mist machines to ward off the Florida heat. Roboasis is a self-service refreshment station where you can buy a soda pop from the machines and enjoy the cooling effects of the misting bar and Coke bottle mist stations.
Throughout the area you’ll find carts where the kids (or you) can get airbrush tattoos, photos with your face inserted onto your favorite character, movie star, or magazine cover, hair-wraps, and caricatures.
Dining in World Expo
Just across from the Roboasis is a small snack cart that offers a good selection of fresh fruit and a few cool drinks.
International Food and Film Festival
**
$-$$
Specialty: American, Asian, and Italian (and ice cream) (kids menu)
Indoor food court/cafeteria style
Open for lunch and dinner
International Food and Film Festival Menu
The food-court atmosphere is casual but tends to get rather loud at times with all of the commotion, but the plus to this is that if you have tired and somewhat irritable kids in tow, no one will notice. In keeping with the theme of the World Expo, there are movies playing in a variety of foreign languages on the monitors above, and an array of movie posters from all over of the world line the walls. Each area offers a fair selection of items from spaghetti to stir fry, gyros to meatloaf, and plenty of other items in between. The meals are a bit more substantial than in some of the other fast-food eateries in the park, so this is a pretty good choice if you are looking for a reasonably sized meal, not just a quick on-the-run sort of meal, without necessarily having to deal with sit-down service.
Shopping in the World Expo
If it has to do with aliens, you will probably find it at MIB Gear.. T-shirts, toys (including a vast array of space guns), and assorted movie-related merchandise can be found from floor to ceiling, which in this case is saying a lot as the ceiling reaches well above normal heights.
A Word on Souvenirs
There are stores both big and small at practically every exit to every ride in the park, with some offering rather unique merchandise, others not. Set down the ground rules for souvenir shopping early on and you should be able to avoid a problem at the end of every ride. Something that works with my kids (and believe me, they do like to shop) is to give them an allowance, with some money coming from us and some that they have earned by doing some extra chores around the house before we go. When it is their money and they know they have a limit, it gets spent much more wisely. They may need reminding that they may not be able to buy something absolutely everywhere they go, but if you help them out and keep them on track letting them know how many places you will be going, how much money they have left, how much money will be taken away if they purchase an item, and so on, it all works out rather well in the end (not perfectly, but well).
Woody Woodpecker’s Kidzone
This entire area is dedicated to younger kids, with whimsical architecture and spacious play areas, cheerful characters, and family-friendly shows.
Animal Actors On Location
Rating: Fun + to Fantastic
Description: Outdoor (though covered) stadium show
Universal Express Valid Here
Ages: Great for kids of all ages
This production is a combination of video clips (on a huge screen), live action, and animal antics, all mixed in with a bit of audience participation and dash of comedy, so it pretty much runs the gamut. The animals are adorable and the antics amusing. Taking their cues from the Animal Planet programming on television, this show is great familyfriendly fun and shouldn’t be missed if you have kids. It also provides a chance to sit and relax for a few minutes, which, depending on which way you decided to tackle the park, may be very much needed by this point.
A Day in the Park with Barney
Rating: Fun + for tinier tots, forget it for kids over 5
Description: Indoor theater show
Universal Express Valid Here
Ages: Best for kids under 5
If your kids love the big purple Dinosaur, there is nowhere better to watch him and his pals BJ and Baby Bop sing and dance about. In fact, there is nowhere else at all where you can catch him live. After the pre-show, kids and parents alike head for the theater, where the stage--made to look like an outdoor park--is set for fun. The show begins with Barney singing and dancing an array of kid’s favorite sing-along songs, entrancing every tyke in the place. The kids will love the special effects including the gentle wind, falling leaves, and snow that emanate from the cloud-{#}and star-filled sky above. After the show, Barney pays attention to each and every child, which allows for a great photo opportunity. Just beyond the theater after you exit there is a hands-on play area for younger kids aptly named Barney’s Backyard, where they can make some music of their own. In this indoor park that feels as if it’s outdoors, you’ll find a neat little tree house for climbing and exploring, a sandcastle for climbing through, a water play area for racing boats, a train and train station, as well as a variety of other really rather unique activities.
Curious George Goes to Town
Rating: Fun +
Description: Interactive play area (with plenty of water)
Ages: Best for kids under 6, but some a bit older may enjoy it as well.
Just as Seuss Landing looks as if it has been plucked right from the pages of one of the classic Seuss tales, this wonderfully whimsical play area looks as if it was taken right from one of the beloved tales of Curious George. It is designed to look like a town square where you might very well have found George and the Man in the Yellow Hat. While some areas are dry, most of the town is devoted to getting wet and in whimsical ways that delight children (and their parents). Water squirters of every imaginable sort, dancing jets, and buckets splashing over gallons and gallons of water provide hours of fun for the little ones. This one, however, requires a change of clothes or at the very least a towel (which of course you can purchase just nearby) by the time the kids are finished (making it a good choice for just before you leave). In addition is the Ball Factory, where thousands of those small soft, colored balls are flying around from blasters, ball bins spilling over, and of course from the kids themselves. There are benches for parents who would rather watch than get wet, but joining in will give you an excuse to monkey around just like the kids. With plenty of places to play for even the littlest kids in the family, and plenty more for the preschool set, this is by far one of the best areas to let them loose for a while.
Universal has become much more aware of the need to provide for the younger children in the family if they are going to continue to draw families to their parks. Even though there are substantially fewer offerings for younger children at Universal, tiny tots and preschoolers simply don’t require nearly as many rides and attractions to keep them happy and content, and a few will do. While older kids are chomping at the bit to head to the next latest and greatest thrilling experience within moments of getting off of the first one, younger kids are content to simply stay and play right where they are having the most fun.
Woody Woodpecker’s Nuthouse Coaster
Rating: Fun
Description: Outdoor roller coaster
Ages: Best for kids over 5 and those not yet ready to tackle the Incredible Hulk Coaster.
Restrictions: Kids must be at least 36” tall to ride.
While this is definitely a coaster for kids, it still has a bit of zip to it--after all, this is Universal Orlando. The cars are made to look like packing crates, and the coaster itself is rather inviting with all of its bright colors and cartoonish features, all just screaming kid friendly.
Be Aware: Younger kids, say around 3, may meet the height requirement, but the ups and downs of the ride may still be a bit overwhelming at that age.
Fievel’s Playland
Rating: Fun +
Description: Outdoor play area and waterslide
Ages: Best for kids ages 4 and up (a bit older for the waterslide, but you be the judge).
In keeping with An American Tale, this play area features plenty of oversized props with a western flair to explore. There are giant boots to walk through, supersized spoons to see-saw on, and spider webs and even a cow skull to climb on. Keep in mind that Fievel is a mouse, and everything in his playland is larger than life so that the kids can imagine the world from his perspective. There are neat places for sliding, bouncing, and splashing around, and there’s even a waterslide smack dab in the middle of everything.
The waterslide has a particularly neat feature for uneasy parents--a monitor allows you to see as your kids at the top before they slide down so you can still keep an eye on them. It does, however, require that Mom or Dad ride along unless the kids are over 40” tall. The play area itself doesn’t require any waiting to enter, but the waterslide is quite a different matter. Because it is so popular with the kids and because it can only handle a few riders at a time, the lines can get pretty long. There is a smaller area nearby for toddlers with a ball pit and smaller slide so no one will be left out of the action here.
The waterslide, as with all Universal Orlando rides, has a bit of zip for a kids’ ride and may be too much for some unless you ride along with them. Having the younger kids watch for a few minutes before making any decisions on this one would be wise.
E.T. Adventure
Rating: Fun
Description: Indoor ceiling-suspended ride
Universal Express Valid Here
Ages: Best for kids ages 3 and up
Just when you thought you had made it through the line on the outside, you will find yourself facing yet another line on the inside, though by this point that should not really be a huge surprise given that is the way most of the rides, especially the most popular ones, tend to work. The scenario is set as you enter: you discover that your help is needed to get E.T. home to save his planet from imminent destruction. Surrounded by the dark wooded forest throughout the queue (much like the woods from where E.T escaped in the movie), you hand the attendant your passport and then hop on one of the bicycles (or gondola if you are unable to ride yourself or have kids in tow who are under 40” tall-- hand-held infants are not allowed under any circumstances) to escape capture by the police much like in the ending of the original movie, except here you continue on to E.T.’s home planet and of course save the day. On your way out, E.T. says good-bye and thank you to each person by name, which kids really get a kick out of if they are paying enough attention. The passports you handed the attendant upon boarding the ride are encoded with your name (which the attendant will ask for on your way in). It’s a pretty neat feature for the kids.
Dining in Woody Woodpecker’s KidZone
The Kid Zone Pizza Company
*
$-$$
Specialty: American fast food and snacks
Outdoor counter service/ snack spot
Open for lunch and dinner
Kid Zone Pizza Company Menu
This is another one of those wonderful quick pick-me-up places, especially good for younger kids who for the most part don’t exactly eat meals that aren’t on the go, certainly not very well anyway. They offer pizza and chicken fingers, two kid-friendly favorites, with fries and fruit cups on the menu as well. Prices do tend to be on the high side, hovering somewhere between $6 and $8, which can buy you more substantial meals elsewhere in the park, but I suppose that convenience has a price. There is a small amount of outdoor seating, though it is more likely that you or at least the kids will be heading for the play areas eating as you go, not necessarily sitting down.
Shopping in Woody Woodpecker’s Kidzone
The Barney Store--I don’t really need to explain this one, do I? Those plush purple dinosaurs are available here in every size imaginable, not to mention plenty of Barney videos, toys, and clothes.
E.T.’s Toy Closet and Photo Spot has plenty of E.T. toys and t-shirts, but the unique feature here is the opportunity to have your photo taken on a bike seemingly flying through the moonlit sky with E.T. along for the ride in the bike’s basket, just as if you are in the famous escape scene from the movie.
Cartoon Store offers kids’ toys and plush animals to please any child, and if the kids (younger ones anyway) are in need of a quick change of clothes, this might very well be a good spot to stop as well.
Hollywood
As you walk down the street, the buildings seem to glitter in the sunshine. The ornate architecture will once again astound you, making you feel as if you are truly strolling along Hollywood Boulevard. I always have to stop for a minute and take in the entire street, looking down it from the World Expo, as I think it is by far the absolute prettiest set in the park, especially at sunset (though San Francisco comes in a close second).
Universal Horror Make-up Show
Rating: Fair to Fun
Description: Stage show
Universal Express Valid Here
Ages: Better for kids over 10
Restrictions: There is a PG-13 rating
This show is for those who love the truly gross and disgusting as it rather gruesomely illustrates how both make-up and computerized special effects are used to create some rather some well-known (and some not so well-known) monsters. They even let you in on a few secrets as to how some of the scarier special effects are created, warning all the while not to try this at home. Along with the actors on stage demonstrating their technique, film clips add to the experience, showing scenes from The Fly and The Mummy among others. The PG-13 rating is due both to the frightening nature of the special effects, as well as to some of the comments made throughout the show.
This one is most definitely for older kids, over 10 at least, who will not wake up in the night screaming from nightmares. Smaller kids would do best to stay away--far, far away--from this one. Even though the show is informative, explaining how the effects are created, you still see plenty of blood and gore and just plain gross effects, and to younger kids it is as good as the real deal.
Terminator 2: 3-D
Rating: Fun + to Fantastic
Description: 3-D movie/stage show
Universal Express Valid Here
Ages: Best for kids over 8
A cross between live action, 3-D movie, and sensory effects, this blockbuster has it all. Fans of the Terminator movies will be most appreciative of finding themselves right in the middle of all the action. The pre-show (which takes place along the queue via monitors) sets the stage as we are warned of the possible doom and gloom that is imminent if SkyNet, the latest and greatest threat to society, is not dealt with and soon. Then it’s on to the theater. As with the movies themselves, this is a rather violent show, with actors that seem to jump right out of the screen (and they actually do, I might add) right along with the amazing 3-D effects, all the while battling it out with the enemy. It is as if you are smack in the middle of futuristic battle you saw in the Terminator movies.
The lines can get quite long, so if you have an Express Pass for this may be a good time to use it (unless you get there fairly early on in the day).
If your kids don’t like 3-D movies, touchy-feely sensory effects, explosions, and loud noises, this show is definitely not a good idea. The characters alone are enough to scare younger kids, but add in all of the action, noise, and special effects that seem to surround you, and you have a recipe for disaster.
Lucy: A Tribute
Rating: Fair to Forget It for younger kids; Fun for older kids, adults, and fans who love Lucy
Description: Exhibit
Ages: Appropriate for all ages.
Kids will most likely be bored, but their parents won’t if they were fans. In this little corner of Hollywood, you will find scripts, costumes, memorabilia, and more gathered in tribute to the famous redhead Lucille Ball. Fans of I Love Lucy will appreciate the film clips and rare home movies being shown, while others can try their skill playing ”California Here We Come,” a trivia game where the Mertzes and the Ricardos are headed to California and you have to get them there by answering the trivia questions correctly.
Dining in Hollywood
Café La Bamba
*
$-$$
Specialty: BBQ, chicken, burgers, and drinks (kids menu)
Indoor (with outdoor seating as well) cafeteria style
Open for lunch and dinner
Café La Bamba Menu
Resembling a Spanish villa with its tile accents and earth-toned walls, this eatery offers not the Spanish or Mexican food you might expect, but barbecue ribs and pork, rotisserie chicken, and burgers. I have to say that the atmosphere is a bit more relaxing, set back as it is off the main drag among the trees and shrubbery. The theme, while not reflective of the food, is also a nice change of pace since it is not necessarily related to a particular blockbuster movie or ride--it’s just a nice place to eat. There is both indoor seating and an outdoor patio. If you’re in the mood for a drink, the Cantina Bar offers a variety of interesting concoctions.
Mel’s Drive-in
**
$-$$
Specialty: American fast-food (kids menu)
Indoor (with limited outdoor seating) counter service
Open for lunch and dinner.
Mel’s Drive-In Menu
This 1950s diner is complete with vintage cars parked right out in front for full effect, and of course the pink neon lights help too. Straight from American Graffiti, Mel’s Diner is a great place with kids in tow, offering burgers, hot dogs, salads, and shakes all to the beat of the be-bop-do-wop music playing in the background. There is plenty of seating, mostly indoor, with booths found along the walls looking out to the park through the large glass windows. The smaller outdoor seating area has a view of the central lagoon.
I love how the kids’ meals come in a cardboard 1950s-style car.
Schwab’s Pharmacy
*
$
Specialty: Ice cream, sandwiches
Indoor soda fountain-style eatery
Open for lunch and dinner
Schwab’s Pharmacy Menu
Resembling an early 1950s drugstore with a soda fountain in the back, this eatery offers the ice cream and sandwiches that might have been on the menu back then. There are only a few booths and a small section of counter seating available in this rather small shop. Vintage photographs line the walls, many featuring the original Schwab’s Pharmacy. In addition to the food, you can also pick up a few pharmacy items such as Tylenol, aspirin, and similar over-the-counter remedies. Even Dramamine is available here.
Kids of every age will appreciate the ice cream treats and shakes, but only those who are willing to down a sandwich instead of a hot dog or burger will appreciate the lunch menu.
Beverly Hills Boulangerie
*
$-$$
Specialty: Pastries, sandwiches, coffee
Indoor counter service
Open for lunch and dinner
Beverly Hills Boulangerie Menu
Located near the park entrance, this is a great stop-off for breakfast if you haven’t had anything in your rush to get to the parks. There is an array of pastries (desserts too) and coffee to get you started on your day. Lunch is also available, with a variety of sandwiches, soups, and salad to choose from. Kids who actually like sandwiches rather than fast food will appreciate this small eatery more than other kids will. Everyone will appreciate the muffins, croissants, turnovers, and of course the desserts.
Shopping in Hollywood
If you’re in the mood to play dress-up, you can take your pick of costumes and have your photo taken for a remembrance at Williams of Hollywood. The cost varies greatly depending on how many people are in the photo, in addition to the size and how many copies you desire.
Cyber Image offers Terminator toys, space guns, t-shirts, and other Terminator merchandise, with a selection of “No Fear” t-shirts available as well.
Silver Screen Collectibles features merchandise that celebrates the legendary stars of the silver screen. You will find t-shirts, posters, postcards, movies, and more, with a small section dedicated entirely to Lucille Ball, who was most certainly a legend in Hollywood history.
Character Meet and Greets at Universal Studios
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 the daily schedule as well a list of the characters that may be appearing that day.
Nighttime Entertainment
Universal 360: A Cinesphere Spectacular, Universal Orlando’s newest seasonal show, made it’s debut just this past summer. Spread across the center lagoon featuring 4 tremendous projection “cinespheres” this spectacular nighttime show makes guests feel as if they’re in the midst of their favorite blockbuster films as projected images appear and change throughout the show. 300 outdoor speakers ensure that music surrounds the entire lagoon while laser and pyro-technic effects add a bit more spark and sparkle to the already spectacular visuals.
Photos and logo courtesy of Universal Studios |
