Welcome to Universal! Whether you are preparing for you first trip to Universal or have visited several times before, the Universal parks and resorts in Orlando are very impressive.  The two theme parks at Universal have so much to offer and in this two-part series includes the breakdown of what you can find in each park.  In this first installation is an overview of Islands of Adventure.

Port of Entry: At the entrance of Islands of adventure stands the Pharos Lighthouse, which is based off the original in Alexandria.  This icon lets you know you are in for adventure and serves as an excellent gateway into all of the islands in IOA.  And don’t forget to pick up your Christmas ornament at the Port of Call Christmas shop!

Superhero Island:  This area is for the more adventurous Universal guests with several thrill ride.  Go upside down on the Hulk, drop 200 feet on Dr. Doom’s Fear Fall and go on a virtual adventure on the Amazing Adventures of Spider Man ride.  If you have a Super Hero appetite, don’t miss the Marvel character dinner at Café 4.

Toon Lagoon:  Other than adorable comic strip decorations in this land, the theme of Toon Lagoon is WET! With Bluto’s Blige River Barges and Dudly Do Right’s Rip Saw Falls, if you don’t walk out of this area soaked, then you definitely missed out.  Both of these rides prove to be a hilariously good time for families.  You won’t leave Toon Lagoon without a smile.

Skull Island:  Go from the bright colors and light environment to the dark, dreary and somewhat intimidating Skull Island.  The highlight here is Kong: Skull Island and it does not disappoint! This combination ride-through, virtual ride is really fun…and a little scary!

Jurassic Park:  All the prehistoric fun can be found in the Jurassic Park adventure area.  It not only has the Jurassic Park River Adventure, but also has one of the best character meets of anywhere in Orlando.  The Raptor Meet and Greet with a “real-life velociraptor” was one of the highlights for my family.  This area also has some of the best photo opportunities in the park.

Hogsmeade: Harry Potter fans can find half of the Wizarding World in Islands of Adventure at Hogsmeade.  You truly feel like a Hogwarts student, sampling Butter Beer and flying around with Harry himself on Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.  You can also catch the Hogwarts Express back to London (Universal Studios park) in Hogsmeade.

Lost Continent:  By the time to arrive at the Lost Continent, you will need to take a break so it’s a perfect time to take in dinner a show.  The real highlights of this area are the Eight Voyage of Sinbad live adventure show and Mythos restaurant.

Seuss Landing: And finally, for all of the small kids and adult kids at heart is the nostalgic Seuss Landing.  This colorful section of the park is home to a great view at Islands of Adventure: the High in the Sky Trolley.  Also fun for all ages is the Caro-Seuss-al and Red Fish, Blue Fish.   While you’re here, ask someone to see Zax Bypass, the spot where they originally broke ground on Islands of Adventure.

If a Universal vacation is on your horizon, make sure to plan a day at Islands of Adventure.  To book your Universal Studios vacation, please contact your Me and The Mouse Travel Specialist.