Islands of Adventure ~ Universal Orlando Attractions

It is a difficult decision when deciphering which attractions and theme parks in Orlando you should be visiting. Walt Disney World is the typical first choice amongst most travelers to the city beautiful. And why not? If you have little ones, this has to be on your to-do list. Although, if you have tweens and teens in your party or maybe you’re just a group of friends looking for some grown-up adventure and thrills, then Universal Studios in Orlando is right where you want to be!

If you are looking for some real action- This is the place.
Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios are two separate parks within the same entrance of Universal and that doesn’t mean you will be able to visit both in one day either. They are absolutely packed with attractions and you will surely get your monies worth when you buy a combo tickets in order to visit both parks. Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure have gathered a number of “best attraction” awards over the years and it would be in your best interest to visit these exciting roller coaster rides and virtual attractions:

• The Amazing Adventures of Spiderman (awesome 3-D adventure)
• Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges (a water ride where your bound to get soaked)
• Cat in the Hat (cute ride for the younger ones)
• The NEW Simpsons Ride (voted best new theme park attraction for 2008)
• E.T. Adventure (an unforgettable childhood classic)

If you are on vacation in Orlando during late September through early November, then get ready for some good old-fashioned scares at Halloween Horror Nights of Universal Studios in Orlando. It’s world famous and themed with everything Halloween! From haunted houses and graveyards, to ghost and goblins lurking in the streets. Nervous to visit Halloween Horror Nights? All jokes aside, you should be. For those of you who like the chills and thrills of Halloween, you must plan to visit this annual event.

Whether you’re a local or a tourist looking for a night out on the town- CityWalk at Universal is your answer. This hot spot offers a variety of adventure after dark whether you simply seeking a social atmosphere, a romantic dinner for two, or maybe you just want to get your groove on with a group of friends! With over 8 fabulous venues and plenty of restaurants to accompany the party streets, you won’t run out of fun but you may be short on time. If you plan to take a break for a hearty meal during your day at the park, we highly suggest you visit The Latin Quarter (offering authentic delicacies from Central America, South America, Mexico and the Caribbean) or take a boat ride over from CityWalk to Portofino Bay Hotel which hosts the unforgettable Mama Della’s Ristorante. Featuring italian cuisine, this place is cozy enough for any couple or suitable for a large family gathering in a formal dining room setting just like your at home. The portions are large and full of local flavor. If it’s your first visit, we say go for the Lasagna and splurge for any of the desserts! Let’s not forget that you will find The Hard Rock Cafe here too!

There’s so much to do at Universal Studios, you definitely need to plan two days for this trip to BOTH fun-filled parks. Book your Orlando vacation home and stay only minutes from all of the action!