Blog Posts Tagged reservations

Restaurant Review: Mythos at Islands of Adventure

1/1/2022 • Reviews, Universal Studios • When you think of theme-park food, it doesn’t usually conjure up images of delectable cuisine, but Mythos at Islands of Adventure (IOA) changed that perception for us and all by happenstance. Jason and I just recently took a trip to Universal Orlando Resort and wanted to hit up IOA to ride Hagrid’s after a very relaxing day at Volcano Bay. (Side note: Hagrid’s might be the best ride I’ve ever ridden. I highly recommend it). Anyway, we were making our way through IOA when we encountered the “towering rock formations, cascading waterfalls, and ancient figures carved” into the rock that is the restaurant which was intriguing in and of itself. We took one look at the menu and knew right away we had to eat there! We were extremely fortunate as they were able to seat us in the indoor dining room within 10 minutes without reservations, although they do […]

Enjoying Butterbeer at Universal Studios Orlando – The Ultimate Guide

12/30/2021 • Blog, Reviews, Universal Studios • A trip to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort wouldn't be complete without enjoying a  Butterbeer. A perfect day at Universal Studios Florida starts with a visit to Diagon Alley and a Butterbeer.  We like to start our day with a ride on Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts when wait times are low due to our early access to the parks as a resort guest. Enjoying a Butterbeer at Universal is just one of the many ways to feel immersed in this magical world. Butterbeer comes in six delicious forms of tasty treats! Which version should you try? Each treat offers something unique, so the Me and The Mouse Team is here to give you a full breakdown of Butterbeer at Universal Studios and where to find it in the Wizarding World. COLD BUTTERBEER The traditional cold drink (secret recipe) is often described as a cream soda with butterscotch and shortbread flavors. It’s a sweet […]

Universal’s Aventura Hotel

12/28/2021 • Blog, Reviews, Universal Studios • Universal’s Aventura Hotel is one of Universal’s newer hotel options. It’s located between Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort and Loews Sapphire Falls Resort. It’s also within walking distance to Volcano Bay and offers views of all 3 Universal Orlando theme parks. Aventura is definitely a resort to consider when visiting Universal Orlando. Aventura is a smaller, modern resort with a lot to offer. Not only does it have standard rooms, deluxe rooms, and kids suites, but you can also upgrade to a Skyline View for breathtaking views from the highest floors of the tower building. With the upgraded view, you’ll be sure to see all of the parks from your window. It makes you feel more part of the excitement of being in the middle of it all! The food and drink offerings at Aventura are like none other. At the Urban Pantry food hall in the main lobby, you’ll […]

Transportation Options from Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB)

12/21/2021 • Blog, Universal Studios, Walt Disney World • If you are reading this blog post, chances are you have found cheap flights from Allegiant to Orlando and are curious about your best options for transportation to Walt Disney World or Universal Orlando Resort. Allegiant flies into Orlando Sanford Airport (SFB) in Sanford, FL, which is northeast of Orlando, FL, and is considerably farther away from your travel destination than Orlando International Airport (MCO). One way to Universal Studios is about an hour’s drive. And for Walt Disney World, about an hour and twenty minutes. Both travel times depend upon construction, and I-4 traffic! Because of this, Having safe, reliable transportation to/from SFB is very important! So what are your options? There are no complimentary transportation services available at SFB to either theme park destination, but there are paid services available. Me and The Mouse Travel recommends the following, and can assist you with these booking options. Please note […]

Universal’s Endless Summer Resorts

12/18/2021 • Blog, Reviews, Universal Studios • Surf’s up! Endless Summer: Surfside Inn and Dockside Inn, are two incredible new options for lodging during your next Universal stay! Located adjacent to each other, both Dockside and Surfside offer rooms with two queen beds with either a standard or pool view, but they also offer a second option for larger parties – two-bedroom suites! And the price point for these rooms is phenomenal! While the standard two queen rooms will comfortably sleep four, the family suites are larger at 440 square feet and will sleep up to six people! Both room types offer a single bathroom (the suite with double sinks), queen beds, ample storage, as well as a small kitchenette. Each kitchenette includes a microwave, a mini-fridge, a coffee maker, and a picnic table – perfect for families! Downstairs you will find a full quick-service restaurant with grab and go options as well as made to order […]

Walt Disney World vs. Universal Studios – Which is Best for Your Family?

12/16/2021 • Blog, Tips, Universal Studios, Walt Disney World • My clients often come to me wanting to plan the perfect Orlando getaway but question which theme park is the best fit for their family. Both Universal Studios and Walt Disney World offer unforgettable experiences and tons of fun for everyone, however, they are unique destinations with many differences. While the decision can be difficult, I’m here to point you in the direction of your perfect vacation! One of the main differences between the resorts is the size. Walt Disney World is much larger than Universal Studios. Some people love the endless possibilities, while others find this overwhelming. If you fall into the latter category, don’t let this discourage you! You will not be able to see everything Disney has to offer on your first visit. Disney becomes more manageable if you make a list of must-dos before your trip. The attractions you choose will depend on the ages of […]

Vacationing at Universal Orlando’s Hard Rock Hotel

12/14/2021 • Blog, Universal Studios • If vacationing like a Rockstar piques your interest, then Universal’s Orlando Hard Rock Hotel might be your next vacation destination! The resort offers luxury accommodations with distinct rock and roll theming throughout, from the moment you enter the lobby and smell the “essence” of a Rockstar, to your hallway stroll which takes you past some incredible rock n’ roll memorabilia, such as one of John Lennon’s suits or even Elvis’ pajamas. The resort offers several types of rooms and suites, all of which are adorned with musical touches and luxury appointed features that will not disappoint. The mirrors in the rooms even show notches of heights for some of your favorite celebrities Justin Timberlake or even little Shirley Temple. The resort also offers club level rooms which include continental breakfast, soda and water throughout the day, and then an evening reception featuring appetizers, smaller entrees, like chicken or hot dogs, […]

Shutterbutton’s – Bring Home a Magical Memory of Your Time in Diagon Alley

11/30/2021 • Reviews, Tips, Universal Studios • They say a picture is worth 1000 words but a moving photo from your time spent at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter? There aren’t enough words to express the fun and magic that you experience at Shutterbutton’s. Located in Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida, Shutterbutton’s is a wizard photography store that captures both moving and still photographs for wizards to share with their friends, even muggles. Sessions are available for up to 4 people at a time and are recorded in one of two simple photography rooms, each with a green screen and an old-fashioned camera. Props such as robes and wands can be borrowed but if you plan on purchasing either of these as souvenirs, I recommend you purchase them before your appointment so you can have them at your disposal. Ollivander's Wand Shop happens to be located across the road from Shutterbutton’s so you can first […]

Vacationing at Universal’s Orlando Hard Rock Hotel

11/26/2021 • Tips, Universal Studios • If vacationing like a rockstar piques your interest, then Universal’s Orlando Hard Rock Hotel might be your next vacation destination! The resort offers luxury accommodations with distinct rock and roll theming throughout, from the moment you enter the lobby and smell the “essence” of a rockstar, to your hallway stroll which takes you past some incredible rock n’ roll memorabilia, such as one of John Lennon’s suits or even Elvis’ pajamas. The resort offers several types of rooms and suites, all of which are adorned with musical touches and luxury appointed features that will not disappoint. The mirrors in the rooms even show notches of heights for some of your favorite celebrities like Justin Timberlake or even little Shirley Temple. The resort also offers club level rooms which include continental breakfast, soda and water throughout the day, and then an evening reception featuring appetizers, smaller entrees, like chicken or hot […]

Jurassic World Kid’s Suite

11/23/2021 • Reviews, Universal Studios • Some 65 million years ago dinosaurs ruled the earth. Today an encounter with one of these massive creatures is impossible unless you visit Universal Orlando, then it’s totally possible! If you have a Dino loving kid in your family then a stay in a Jurassic World Kid’s Suite at Loews Royal Pacific Resort is a must. These 670 square feet 2-bedroom suites take you on an adventure to the Isla of Nublar. 2 twin-size gyrospheres in the kid’s room offer not only an awesome place sleep but a bit of separation from the adult’s room. The Jurassic World theming is all over the kid’s room from the valley mapping carpet to the massive landscaped scenery on the walls. A lighted desk which has a large map of Nublar above it, a full-size closet, and an entertainment center with a large TV are also included in each of the kid's rooms. […]