Amazing Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Studios has absolutely something for everyone. If you like to sit at the top of a high rollercoaster and plummet at speed to the ground before being whisked back up into the sky whilst screaming your head off or maybe getting soaked on a water ride, there are plenty of these rides to keep you entertained!

There are ever evolving rides and additions each year. Currently there’s Shrek, Minions, Spider Man, Transformers, Jurassic Park, Kong, Jimmy Fallon race through New York and the old favourite “ET” which was my favourite. Not forgetting all you Harry Potter Fans out there - the Wizardly World of Harry Potter is simply amazing. Walk through Diagon Alley, pop into Ollivander’s to purchase your interactive wand where you can undertake magic spells around the Alley. If you are brave enough, go into Gringott’s bank and ride the indoor rollercoaster, then run through the wall at King’s Cross Station Platform 9 ¾ and take the Hogwarts express over to Islands of Adventure before arriving at Hosgmeade for more rides, thrills and a Butter Beer (or ice cream!) Both Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios have kid’s zones (Seuss Landing and Woody Woodpecker) for smaller children.

Don’t forget the shows, fantastic parades and the opportunity to meet your favourite Marvel Character or Minion around the parks too.

I also visited Volcano Bay, which is the new waterpark that opened in June this year, with many thrill rides. My own favourite is the lazy river but watch out - you will get wet!

The parks are open in the evening too, these times depend on the time of year and each day there will be a notice of the opening times. I would recommend the Cinematic show at Universal Studios, showcasing 100 years of Universal films with water show and fireworks, and a top tip is to eat at Lombardo’s in the park who offer a set two course meal followed by sweet treat buffet while watching the show on their seated veranda - a great view.

City Walk is open until 2am every day with a huge choice of different restaurants and bars, my favourite was The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium – amazing unique food! If you are staying on site, the water taxis run until 2am to take you back to your onsite hotel.

I would recommend staying onsite even if it just for maybe a few days during your stay in Orlando. All the onsite hotels are walking distance to the entrance, it is much easier to use the shuttle bus or water taxi. Three of the hotels, Lowes Portofino Bay, Lowes Royal Pacific and Hard Rock also include express passes, so a 1-night stay at either of these hotels will include a two day express pass each. With express passes costing from $99 per person per day (on top of the normal ticket price) a stay in one of these hotels will pay for itself, especially in busy school holiday and peak times when queues are long.

There is much more to say about Universal Orlando Resort, please get in touch for some more hints and advice on this fantastic destination.