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11/13/2021 • Tips, Universal Studios Orlando •
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 […]
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11/11/2021 • Reviews, Universal Studios Orlando •
When visiting Universal Orlando Resort, the most magical time you and your family will have is visiting the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Hogsmeade! Universal has pulled out all the stops to make this the most authentic guest experience possible - you can read about all these worlds have to offer HERE and by searching the Me and the Mouse blog! One experience that is truly unforgettable is a ride on the Hogwarts Express. Only those with a “Park to Park” ticket (meaning you are able to visit multiple parks in one day) at Universal Orlando Resort are allowed to take part in this experience. If you don’t currently hold a Park to Park ticket, ask your travel specialist for an upgrade! Guests can board the Hogwarts Express either at Platform 9 ¾ at Kings Cross Station in Universal Studios, OR, at the station in Hogsmeade in Islands of […]
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11/9/2021 • Reviews, Universal Studios Orlando •
For the common Disney fan, Universal Orlando may not appear to have as many great table service options as Walt Disney World, however, I was pleasantly surprised on my recent visit. The Kitchen at Universal’s Hard Rock resort was fantastic! With cool theming, great food, reasonable prices, and a convenient location, The Kitchen is a fabulous option for Universal Orlando-guests. First of all, when you walk into the restaurant, you are greeted with cool, laid-back, rock star décor. Since we had an early lunch reservation, we were just arriving as the restaurant was opening so being able to see the restaurant without anyone it in, makes you really take in the ambience. One of the most unique decorations there are the personalized chef jackets of all of the musician guest chefs who come in to cook in The Kitchen. That’s right! Famous musicians randomly come and cook at the restaurant in the open area […]
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11/6/2021 • Reviews, Universal Studios Orlando •
So this blog almost didn’t happen…twice. “Why?” you may ask… because the food is so good I destroyed it before I got pictures. True story. If you’ve read my blogs before, you know I like food, and burgers are my thing, so when we discovered Cowfish in Universal’s Citywalk, a mere 90 minutes away from us, I was elated because we literally travel across the country for food. Cowfish is the perfect nightcap after a long day running around Universal’s theme parks and is conveniently located a short walk from each park on your way out of the Citywalk complex. It’s a three-story restaurant with some cool views if you are seated on the patio or third-story deck. It boasts some underwater theming and even a trio of interactive screens on the way in to occupy your time while you wait. Because it’s so popular, there is almost always a […]
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7/3/2026 • Reviews, Universal Studios Orlando •
One of the most popular questions I am asked is “Where is the best place to eat at Universal?” Unlike Disney, Universal’s in-park dining selections are fairly limited and if you are in the mood for something a little better than burgers, chicken fingers and fries, it is really convenient to leave the park and head to CityWalk. With so many selections for table service restaurants with prices comparable to in-park counter service restaurants, I highly recommend a table service meal at CityWalk as a much-needed break from the parks. On my last trip, I visited NBC Sports Grill and Brew and it was my absolute favorite meal. For a bar and grill, this restaurant had a huge variety of pastas, burgers, steaks and comfort food selections. My table enjoyed the Chicken Mac and Cheese, Chicken Pot Pie and the Smokehouse Stack Burger. As much as we each enjoyed our […]
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10/27/2021 • Tips, Universal Studios Orlando •
Universal Orlando opened its gates to the most incredible and advanced water theme park I have ever seen. It is no wonder this is a very popular (and very crowded) park! Here are three tips to enjoy your experience and dodge some of the crazy crowds. Tip #1 When Should I Get There? I have three very different recommendations on when to arrive to make sure you get in and not have to deal with horrible lines. Your best bet is to arrive at the park opening and claim your chair at Waturi Beach. This works even better if you are staying on-site and eligible for Early Morning Hours. You will be guaranteed entry and will have your choice of chairs and the best view of the breathtaking volcano. My second recommendation is after 4 pm. Guests that have arrived in the morning are exhausted, sunburned, and ready to leave, which means you […]
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10/25/2021 • Reviews, Universal Studios Orlando •
Step back to a simpler time in this retro-style resort. Depicting the feel of the 1950s and ’60s, this resort makes you feel you have walked onto the set of Mad Men and the Brady Bunch. Cabana Bay may be considered a value resort, but it is a fabulous well-appointed, and clean resort and perfect for families with their spacious family suites, that sleep up to 6 people or their 2 Bedroom suites, that sleep up to 8. All family suites make dining more convenient for busy families with each suite fully equipped with kitchenettes complete with microwaves, mini-refrigerators, and a kitchen sink. Each living area also has its own flat-screen TV. If water fun is on your agenda, you can enjoy two large pools, one is complete with a lazy river. In my opinion, the best part of Cabana Bay is the fact it is adjacent to the all-new […]
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10/20/2021 • Reviews, Universal Studios Orlando •
Looking for a unique experience while visiting Orlando? So was I - on Valentine’s Day while visiting my daughter. What comes to mind when you think of Valentine’s Day? Perhaps flowers and candy? Perhaps chocolate? Yes, indeed. The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium and Savory Feast Kitchen at Universal’s CityWalk is perfect for a Valentine’s Day celebration. Let’s be honest - this place is perfect to visit any day of the year! If I lived closer – I would be sure to visit frequently so I could try practically everything on the menu. The Chocolate Emporium is a full-service restaurant, bar, and confectionary with a steampunk theme. It is two stories with seating on both levels. The menu offering is tremendous making it hard to choose just one item. Their brunch menu is served all day featuring unique crepes, waffles, French toast, and quiches. Also served are soups and salads, sandwiches and […]
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5/8/2026 • Epic Universe, Reviews, Tips, Universal Studios Orlando •
Are you ready for some Muggle Magic? Universal Orlando’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter is one of the most immersive and impressive themed lands ever created. It is no wonder that this area is very popular and always crowded. In order to get the most out of the Wizarding World with the least amount of hassle, you must go in with a plan. By following the steps below, you are sure to experience all that your Muggle heart desires without the aggravation of lines, crowds and excessive waiting. Step 1 – Diagon Alley in Universal Studios Park Congratulations! You’ve been accepted into Hogwarts so now you must pick up all of your supplies. Stepping into Diagon Alley is like stepping into the movie. Never have I experienced such a feeling of being a part of the story. You will want to spend some time here experiencing all of its beauty. […]
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5/27/2026 • Reviews, Universal Studios Orlando •
Loews Sapphire Falls is a beautiful resort conveniently located one mile from the entrance of Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. Full of lush Caribbean scenery and breathtaking waterfalls, this resort hotel is sure to make you feel like you are in a relaxing tropical paradise, not in the middle of a theme park. Walking into the lobby of this resort was very impressive. The spacious lobby is decked out with a giant beach ball chandelier. You can also see a view of Islands of Adventure from the windows. The check-in process was absolutely flawless. The desk staff was extremely friendly and efficient. It took only 10 minutes from check-in to being in my room! My room had two queen beds and a standard view. However, I still had a great view of the water surrounding the resort. Each room comes equipped with a Keurig coffee maker, flat-screen television and mini-refrigerator. The […]
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