So, You Are Thinking About Going to Universal

Want to get away this holiday season but still be a part of the action? Come on down to Universal in Orlando, Florida! With three parks AND a nightlife area, there are a multitude of things to do! From drinking butterbeer and getting your own wand, to coming face-to-face with dinosaurs, there are things to do no matter what you are into! I, personally, have not been there many times in my life, but I still have my favorite rides, lands, and treats! Similarly to my Disney vacation planning article, today I will explain to you what you need to know when going to Universal.  

Also like in my Disney vacation article, I will be discussing the hotels first. In total, there are nine hotels and just like at Disney, there are different ranks for the hotels based on price value. The cheapest values include Endless Summer, Dockside, and Surfside. These do not have a lot of theming and I recommend these for if you don’t plan on spending a lot of time in the rooms and just want to head straight to the parks! The next rank includes the Aventura Hotel and Cabana Bay. I, myself, have stayed there; and for a decent price, the hotel still feels high-maintenance even with a retro 60’s feel. The next rank includes the Loews Sapphire Falls Resort, and the last is  the Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Royal Pacific Resort, and Loews  Portofino Bay Hotel. I also stayed at the Portofino Bay Hotel, and with it’s Italian, rustic theme, it really makes you feel like you are on a high-price vacation! As always, remember to base your hotel off of the reason for  your stay!  

Universal may have less parks than Disney, but they still have tons of fun to share and discover. Their more-well known park, Islands of Adventure, includes the memorable rides and lands like Harry Potter World or Marvel Super Hero Island. If you are trying to find the rides without a surrounding theme, then you are thinking of Universal Studios. This park has popular rides like The Simpsons, for example. Also, in my opinion, this park seems a little more laid back unlike Islands of Adventure that is really “in your face” and energetic. Because I have not been there many times in my life, I do not have a favorite park, but make sure to experience them both!   

Finally, you need a place to eat. Whether this is a big family meal, or just a small, mid-day snack, Universal has plenty of restaurants to choose from. Thunder Falls Terrace, located in Jurassic Park World, is a great place for lunch or a snack. Choose from options of chicken, smoked turkey legs, wraps, and salads. Depending on what you are feeling like eating, they have something for you! For a more fine-dining experience, check out Antojitos. This is your typical sit-down, Mexican restaurant, so for food, think house made guacamole and melty-cheese-filled quesadillas. This past weekend, I had been there myself, and between the amazing food, and incredible atmosphere, it is totally a must-do! If you are interested in the idea of “dinner and a show” this is the place for you! 

Like I said before, Universal has a good variety of options whether its food, hotels, or even just the parks. And just like with Disney, Universal has its own perks! I hope I enlightened you on what makes Universal so special. 

Hope to see you there!