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Universal Islands of Adventure

The Incredible Hulk Coaster® at Universal Islands of Adventure, Part of Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Islands of Adventure

Hours 9 a.m. – Closing Times Vary Park hours are subject to change.

Adventurers, explorers, book-lovers and thrill-seekers will be awed by the unbelievable experiences that await at Universal Islands of Adventure — a world where heroes, myths and legends become real at  Universal Orlando Resort .

Save on discount tickets:  Universal Orlando Resort

Explore both lands of  The Wizarding World of Harry Potter ™ as you board the Hogwarts™ Express from King’s Cross Station in  Universal Studios Florida  and arrive at Hogsmeade™ Station in Universal Islands of Adventure. (A Park-to-Park ticket is required for travel on the Hogwarts™ Express. Additional restrictions apply.)

This half of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ at Universal Orlando Resort is home to Hogwarts™ castle and Hogsmeade™ village. On select nights, watch in awe as a dazzling spectacle of music and lights are cast against the majestic backdrop of the castle during The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts™ Castle show. Here, you can enjoy themed shopping, dining and entertainment, as well as feats of wizardry on Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™, Flight of the Hippogriff™ and Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure ™.

Discover: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ : Tips for the Best Experience

The park’s newest thrill is a never-before-seen species of coaster: Jurassic World VelociCoaster, based on the blockbuster movie franchise. Spanning more than 4,700 feet of track, it is Florida’s fastest and tallest launch coaster, featuring a story that expands what you’ve seen on the big screen.

Jurassic World VelociCoaster also boasts a series of intense maneuvers that will catapult you up to 70 mph and more than 150 feet in the air, including two pulse-pounding launches; a one-of-a-kind, 360-degree barrel roll; a zero-gravity inverted stall; and going airborne during the towering “Top Hat,” propelling you 155 feet in the air before an 80-degree drop. Brave the hunt!

Not enough action for you? Barrel down Jurassic Park River Adventure, where a white-knuckle river journey through the famous dinosaur land culminates in a pitch-black, 85-foot drop. Even little ones can have some primeval fun at Pteranodon Flyers. Then, run with the undisputed king of the apes at Skull Island: Reign of Kong.

If comic books are more your thing, meet some of your favorite costumed adventurers at Marvel Super Hero Island ® . Populated by icons such as Captain America, Wolverine, The Green Goblin and others, it also features heart-pounding attractions like The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man ® , The Incredible Hulk Coaster ® , Doctor Doom’s Fearfall ® and Storm Force Accelatron ® .

Next, the young and the young-at-heart can step into beloved childhood storybooks at Seuss Landing™. Inspired by the works of Dr. Seuss and designed with younger guests in mind, this area’s attractions are fun for the whole family, including The Cat in the Hat™, The High in the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride!™, One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish™, and Caro-Seuss-el™.

For even more animated adventures, check out Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls ® and Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges ® . Just be prepared for a soaking when you climb aboard these fast-paced water rides. You also stand a good chance of getting wet at Poseidon’s Fury, an innovative walk-through exploration of an ancient Greek temple.

All this plus live shows, character meet-and-greets, dining and shopping built around some of the greatest legends — and you’ll only find it in Orlando.

Don’t miss out on all the fun at Universal Islands of Adventure,  Universal Studios Florida , and  Universal Volcano Bay , and at a discounted price. Purchase discount tickets today from Visit Orlando powered by BestofOrlando.com .

Ticket Types

Build your ultimate adventure at Universal Orlando Resort with your choice of tickets.

Base Tickets

These starter tickets are designed for visiting either Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure or Universal Volcano Bay. One park per day. Multi-Day Park-to-Park Tickets are also available.

Park-to-Park Tickets

Visit two or all three Universal Orlando Resort parks in the same day. Multi-Day Park-to-Park Admission Tickets are also available.

Travel Tip : When you’re planning your visit to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™, please note that Diagon Alley™ is located in Universal Studios Florida and Hogsmeade™ is located in Universal Islands of Adventure. Jumping onboard Hogwarts™ Express (magical train transport between The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ — Hogsmeade™ and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ — Diagon Alley™) is only possible with a park-to-park ticket.

Universal Express Pass

When you add Universal Express ride access to your theme park admission, you get to skip the regular lines at most of your favorite rides and attractions and fit way more fun into your day. Separate theme park admission required.

Participating attractions and rides at Universal Islands of Adventure (subject to change without notice):

• The Amazing Adventure of Spider-Man®
• Caro-Seuss-el™
• Doctor Doom’s Fearfall™
• Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls®
• Flight of the Hippogriff™
• Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™
• The High in the Sky Seuss Trolley Train!™
• Hogwarts™ Express: Hogsmeade™ Station (park-to-park admission ticket required; additional restrictions apply)
• The Incredible Hulk Coaster®
• Jurassic Park River Adventure™
• Poseidon’s Fury
• Skull Island: Reign of Kong
• Storm Force Accelatron®

There’s an adventure at every turn as you explore the innovative rides and attractions featured at Universal Islands of Adventure: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ — Hogsmeade™, Marvel Super Hero Island®, Toon Lagoon™, Jurassic Park™, The Lost Continent, Seuss Landing™ and Port of Entry. Please note that some experiences at Universal Islands of Adventure are not suitable for all ages and heights.

The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man ®

Match Marvel’s Spider-Man step for step as he slings webs, climbs walls and scales towering buildings, then topples to the sidewalk in a 400-foot virtual drop. Help him stop the evil Sinister Syndicate from taking the Statue of Liberty hostage. Amazing special effects and 3D technology make being in Spider-Man’s shoes an epic adventure.

Height restrictions : 40 inches (102 cm). Children under 48 inches (122 cm) must be accompanied by supervising companion.

Caro-Seuss-el™

Hop on a multi-colored, whimsical creature from Dr. Seuss’ beloved books. You’ll be mixing and mingling with the likes of Elephant Bird, and more, while Horton the Elephant sits atop of the carousel as the official mascot. All and all, it’s a gentle and wonderfully silly ride.

Height restrictions : Children under 48 inches (122 cm) must be accompanied by supervising companion.

The Cat in the Hat™

Expect plenty of shenanigans when The Cat in the Hat™ and Thing One™ and Thing Two™ conveniently arrive when mom and dad aren’t home. It’s whimsical and wonky fun experiencing this sassy reenactment of Dr. Seuss’ beloved classic storybook.

Height restrictions : 36 inches (92 cm). Children under 48 inches (122 cm) must be accompanied by supervising companion.

Doctor Doom’s Fearfall®

You know it’s going to be an ominous ride when you approach a pair of foreboding, 200-foot high towers. Beware, Doctor Doom is intent on collecting your fear in his latest evil contraption! Jet skyward 185 feet, then be whizzed back faster than the force of gravity.

Height restrictions : 52 inches (132 cm)

Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls®

Ride along as Canadian Mountie Dudley Do-Right dashes to save sweet Nell Fenwick from the clutches of Snidely Whiplash, who’s imprisoned Nell in a sawmill. Splash down on your log flume as the adventure unfolds, and expect plenty of action along the way: Ripsaw Falls features a 75-foot drop and an exploding dynamite shack.

Height restrictions : 44 inches (112 cm). Children under 48 inches (122 cm) must be accompanied by a supervising companion.

Flight of the Hippogriff™

This family-friendly roller coaster spirals and dives around the pumpkin patch before swooping past Hagrid’s hut.

Height restrictions : 36 inches (92 cm)

Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure™

The newest thrilling addition to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ invites you to fly beyond the grounds of Hogwarts™ castle and deep into the Forbidden Forest. Featuring state-of-the-art coaster technology and an engaging storyline, this freewheeling thrill ride will bring you closer than ever to some of the wizarding world’s rarest magical creatures.

Height restrictions : 48 inches (122 cm)

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™

Soar above the grounds of Hogwarts™ castle as you join Harry Potter™ and his friends on a thrilling adventure. Groundbreaking, state-of-the-art technology (and a little magic) creates a one-of-a-kind ride.

The High in the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride! ™

There are twin tracks on this trolley ride, offering two different experiences. One track gives you all the Seuss Landing™ scoop, while the other track continues with the Sneetches™ storyline introduced in the queue. Either way, it’s loads of light-hearted fun. You may even get a chance to circle diners from above at Circus McGurkus Cafe Stoo-pendous.

Height restrictions : 36 inches (92 cm). Children under 48 inches (122 cm) must be accompanied by a supervising companion.

The Incredible Hulk Coaster®

The Incredible Hulk’s powerful force continues to reign supreme on this epic roller coaster. Brace yourself as you propel upwards of 67 mph while twisting and turning along the track. Swirl upside down and jet through a mind-blowing, zero-gravity roll, and hear the roar and experience the power of Bruce Banner’s alter ego.

Height restrictions : 54 inches (137 cm)

Jurassic Park River Adventure

As an unsuspecting Jurassic Park tourist, prepare to set off on a fascinating boat ride that quickly goes awry. After you’re nudged off course by a menacing dinosaur, the power shuts down and you end up in the Raptor Containment area, where hungry velociraptors are now on the loose. Things get worse by the minute when your only escape from the jaws of a mighty T. rex is an 85-foot drop into complete darkness.

Height restrictions : 42 inches (107 cm). Children under 48 inches (122 cm) must be accompanied by a supervising companion.

Jurassic World VelociCoaster

Get ready for a new species of roller coaster. Speeding through the jungle, rising high above the terrain, it’s Jurassic World VelociCoaster, an exhilarating experience that will thrill you down to your DNA. Get a close look at the Velociraptors — hear their snarls, feel their breath, and come face-to-face like never before. Then board your vehicle for a high-speed sprint through the park’s Velociraptor paddock. You’ll feel the rush of the hunt as you race alongside these nimble predators before twisting and soaring high above the land and water. Two intense launches. Four inversions. It’s the new top of the roller coaster food chain.

Height restrictions: 51 inches (130 cm)

One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish™

Climb into a colorful, comical fish vehicle and fly up and down and round and round. Inspired by the iconic Dr. Seuss tale, this ride will tickle you pink with fountains that squirt in time to the music.

Height restrictions : Children under 48 inches (122 cm) must be accompanied by a supervising companion.

Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges ®

Hang on tight as you spin out of control on a whirlwind river rapid ride. Aid Popeye the Sailor Man on a hilarious rescue mission to save Olive from smarmy Bluto. Bring your sense of adventure — and a towel.

Pteranodon Flyers

Take off on a flying swing under the wings of a giant Pteranodon. The ride provides awesome views of Camp Jurassic while you take flight on a breezy adventure with a prehistoric creature.

Skull Island: Reign of Kong™

Embark on a 1930s-style expedition to Skull Island inspired by the King Kong movie. Traverse swamps and jungles swarming with prehistoric predators and terrifying creatures. Things get eerie as your crew descends deeper into the heart of the island: King Kong looms in the shadows roaring, ready to protect his domain.

Some of your favorite characters come to life during live shows and entertainment at Universal Islands of Adventure.

The Mystic Fountain

Be sure to make a wish at The Mystic Fountain. It’s home to a legendary Water Spirit — mischievous and very much alive. It breathes, speaks, spouts riddles and tells jokes. Watch out, as he might even shoot water at you if it suits his fancy.

The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts™ Castle

On select nights, experience a dazzling spectacle of music and lights when projections are cast against this majestic castle. It’s a beautiful way to end your day at Universal Islands of Adventure.

Oh! The Stories You'll Hear!™

You’re invited to an adorable read-along at this wonderful show. Set on a small stage, it features big performances from some of your favorite Dr. Seuss characters: Sam from Green Eggs and Ham , The Cat in the Hat along with Thing One™ and Thing Two™, The Grinch™, and the Lorax. Watch them happily dance and be a part of a truly original story time where Dr. Seuss’ beloved tales jump off the pages and onto the stage.

Poseidon’s Fury ®

You'll be guided down the dimly lit ruins of the ancient Temple of Poseidon by an expert archeologist from the Global Discovery Group. Suddenly, the tour takes an unsuspecting twist as everyone is thrust into a massive battle between Poseidon and Lord Darkenon. Fireballs, shooting lasers and water explosions ensue. Will you escape doom and rise to the surface before the ancient temple comes crashing down?

Triwizard Spirit Rally

Cheer on students from Hogwarts™, Beauxbatons and Durmstrang as they build excitement for the highly anticipated Triwizard Tournament.

Spider-Man, Captain America, Wolverine, Storm, Green Goblin and Doctor Doom are the Marvel® Super Heroes you may encounter during your day at Universal Islands of Adventure. Don’t forget to team up with your favorite Super Heroes at the Marvel® Character Dinner.

Check out the numerous character zones at Universal Islands of Adventure, including Classic Comic Book Characters, Dr. Seuss Character Zone, Raptor Encounter and more. (Please note that all characters at Universal Islands of Adventure are subject to change without notice.)

These immersive lands at Universal Islands of Adventure are fun for all ages.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™

Hogsmeade™ is home to Hogwarts™ castle, where you can experience the unforgettably thrilling adventures, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™, Flight of the Hippogriff™ and Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure™. Keep in mind, though, there's much more to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ than what's found within Universal Islands of Adventure. Put on your robe, grab your wand, and get tips for the best experience.

Marvel Super Hero Island®

Stroll the streets of Marvel Super Hero Island for your chance to see Spider-Man, Captain America, Cyclops, Wolverine, Storm and Rogue, as well as Marvel Villains like Doctor Doom and the Green Goblin.

Seuss Landing™

Oh, the places you’ll go at Seuss Landing™. See some of your most beloved Dr. Seuss characters in person, including The Cat in the Hat™, Sam I Am, Thing One™ and Thing Two™, and The Grinch™.

Appearance of characters is subject to change without notice, and not all characters listed are guaranteed to appear at the same time, or on the same day.

Stop and play at these cleverly crafted play areas that are bound to add to the fun at Universal Islands of Adventure.

Camp Jurassic

Transform into a junior explorer at Camp Jurassic, where kids can explore caves and an echo cavern, as well as wander through a mysterious amber mine. There’s adventure and excitement at every turn. Don’t miss the Thunder Lizard Trail, where little ones can make the ground rumble and shake with the roar of a mighty dinosaur.

If I Ran The Zoo™

Find yourself immersed in the pages of Dr. Seuss’ most popular books as you meet exotic and quirky animals like the tizzle-topped, tufted Mazurka from the island of Yerka. Smile while your kids hitch a ride from a multi-humped, colorful cow or play a silly game of Tic Tac Joe. Kids love being amateur zookeepers to imaginary, whimsical beasts.

Jurassic Park Discovery Center

Make friends with a fossilized T. rex, test your dinosaur DNA to discover what kind of dinosaur you would have been, and head over to the nursery to examine dinosaur eggs. Don’t be surprised if you catch a velociraptor hatching! These are just a few of the treats in store for kids at this interactive activity zone.

Me Ship, The Olive ®

It’s all hands on deck at this colorful, imaginative play area inspired by Popeye’s famous ship named after his sweetheart, Olive. Three decks of fun await kids as they climb cargo nets, toot horns, crawl through not-so-secret passageways and whiz down slides. The second deck is famous for its water cannons, where little guests can squirt unsuspecting passengers.

Whether you prefer to socialize with Marvel® Super Heroes or break bread with fellow world explorers, there’s a variety of great dining options. Here are some standouts you won't want to miss.

Captain America Diner ®

Expect Marvel® Super Hero decor to be on full display as you enter this Super Hero diner. Families can sit down and relax in the ultimate Marvel hero hangout while munching on cheeseburgers, chicken sandwiches, salads and more.

Circus McGurkus Cafe Stoo-pendous™

Eat under the brightly colored big top and prepare to be wowed by the circus. Nutty creatures and quirky acrobats performing high above are sure to enhance an already playful ambiance. It’s a kid-centric menu featuring alphabet soup, mac & cheese, personal pizzas, and more.

Confisco Grille

Imagine hundreds of confiscated items from world travelers and explorers just lying about as if they were props on a movie set. That’s the scene at this cleverly designed eatery featuring food from around the world. Take a break from exploring exotic places. There really is something for every world traveler here: house specialty pad thai, fajitas, salmon Santa Maria and more.

Mythos Restaurant

Jagged rock formations, trickling waterfalls and carvings of mythical ancient gods await you at this table-service restaurant in the Lost Continent. An eclectic menu offering everything from risotto to sushi to beef medallions, coupled with a mystical ambiance, make this a unique dining experience. The spanakopita dip, a well-loved appetizer, is a special treat.

Commemorate your travels and interactions with Marvel ®  Super Heroes, magical creatures and wild beasts with wonderful souvenirs that will live on long after you return home.

Cats, Hats & Things™

The Cat in The Hat™ and his mischievous cohorts are showcased in this fun-loving store, jam-packed with all things Dr. Seuss. Head over to the Converse sneaker wall, where you will be able to select Seuss socks and sneakers. Families will love the Thing One™, Thing Two™ and Thing Three™ pajama sets.

Islands of Adventure Trading Co.

Encounter a host of exploration-themed merchandise perfect for everyday adventures. Grin at the enormous banner outside of the shop promoting the largest selection of Universal Islands of Adventure souvenirs. There’s definitely a wide selection of wonderful items to satisfy a variety of ages and tastes.

Island Market and Export Candy Shoppe

Candy-lovers and dessert-lovers may never want to leave this purveyor of sugary confections. Once inside, you will want to head straight to an enormous glass counter with a tempting display of candy-, chocolate- and caramel-dipped apples and strawberries, plus brownies, chocolate turtles and specialty candy.

Jurassic Park Outfitters

Take a break from exploring the jungles of Isla Nublar and load up on plenty of Jurassic Park goodies. There’s no shortage of Jurassic-themed outer wear, merchandise, memorabilia and more. Oh, and you might want to pick up a beach towel if you just exited Jurassic Park River Adventure.

Marvel Alterniverse ®

Fortify your Marvel® Super Hero collection with a creative mix of merchandise. Spot Spider-Man signing autographs and striking poses. Discover everything Marvel® Super Hero: apparel, collectibles, mugs, toys and amazing souvenirs.

Add even more value to your Universal Islands of Adventure visit by planning your trip during special events.

Holidays at Universal Orlando

Anyone can “Ho-ho-ho” and “Fa-la-la” for the holidays. But if you want to scream and laugh your jingle bells off, you’ve got to awesome up your holiday at Universal Orlando Resort. Join the celebration of Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ with festivities in both lands. Catch the larger-than-life balloons of Universal’s Holiday Parade Featuring Macy’s. Enjoy The Grinchmas™ Who-liday Spectacular starring the Grinch™. And top it off with a stay at one of Universal’s spectacular hotels. From the parks to the hotels to Universal CityWalk, there’s themed entertainment, food and fun around every corner. It’s the biggest, loudest, awesomest holiday celebration of the season. And it’s only at Universal Orlando Resort.

VIP Experience

Feel like a celebrity on this specialized guided tour. You’ll be personally escorted through Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure or both theme parks. This experience includes:

• Priority access to all rides and attractions
• Exclusive behind-the-scenes experiences 
• Complimentary valet parking for one vehicle 
• Reserved seating at shows
• Complimentary breakfast and lunch on the day of your tour (select tours)
• Complimentary full-service dinner at one of Universal’s dining venues on the day of your tour (select tours)

Please note : Separate theme park admission required for all VIP experiences.  

10 Reasons to Visit Universal CityWalk

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Islands of Adventure: The Complete Guide

Universal Studios

Planning Your Trip

Things to do, what to eat and drink, where to stay, getting there, money saving tips.

One of the most sophisticated and elaborate theme parks in the world, Islands of Adventure is also a visual feast. Like Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom, it is divided into themed lands–in this case, "islands"–stationed around a lagoon. Each island, including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter , Jurassic Park, and Marvel Super Hero Island, is meticulously themed and is designed to immerse guests and help advance the attractions' storylines. Unlike Disney’s sugarcoated Magic Kingdom, Islands of Adventure features many edgy, high-octane attractions.

Part of the Universal Orlando resort—which also includes Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Volcano Bay water park, multiple hotels, and the CityWalk dining, shopping, and entertainment complex—there’s plenty to consider when planning a visit. When should you go? What are the can’t-miss attractions? Where should you dine? How about the hotels? Let the adventure begin!

Best Time to Visit : The time of year with the least amount of visitors (and the lowest ticket and hotel prices) is mid-January to mid-February. It’ll be a bit busier, but still relatively quiet, in September, October, early November, mid-December, April, and early May. The crowds will be bigger still in late May, early June, and late August. The peak season coincides with summer school vacations, from late June to early August, as well as Thanksgiving, and Easter. The very busiest time is the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day.

It should come as no surprise that the notorious Florida heat and humidity is at its most intense from late spring through early fall. Note also that the Atlantic hurricane season, which can cause havoc in Florida, runs from June through November with a peak period of August to October. You might want to consider buying travel insurance if you plan a visit at those times.

Getting Around: Because it is so compact, it’s fairly easy to make your way throughout the theme park resort. In general, cars are more of a hassle than a help. Located at either end of CityWalk, it’s an easy walk between the two theme parks. All of the area hotels offer shuttle buses to the central garage that leads to the parks and CityWalk. Most of the hotels are also connected by water taxi. With the exception of the Endless Summer resorts (which is located a short distance away, but not contiguous to the rest of the Universal Orlando campus), all of the hotels share a lovely garden path for guests who would prefer to hoof it to the parks.

Travel Tip: All of Universal’s hotel guests have access to Early Park Admission. Use the benefit to get into the theme park before the general public and explore the Wizarding World of Harry Potter as well as other select attractions.

Be sure to download the official  Universal Orlando Resort app  and avail yourself of its features and resources. Also, familiarize yourself with Universal’s Virtual Line program, which is available through the app. Use it to make onsite reservations for select attractions. Learn more about how to  skip the lines at Universal Orlando .

Arthur Levine

By far, the most popular and must-do section of Islands of Adventure is The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Hogsmeade. It was the first theme park land to capitalize on the beloved franchise. Located inside the iconic Hogwarts Castle, The Forbidden Journey of Harry Potter is one of the finest achievements in park attractions. The land also offers a fabulous second e-Ticket ride, Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Coaster , which is a wild, launched ride. The Hogwarts Express , a themed attraction in its own right, shuttles passengers between Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley at Islands of Adventure's sister park, Universal Studios Florida.

There are many other highlights throughout the park, including the the world’s first roving motion base 3D simulator ride, The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man ; the rip-roaring immersion tunnel attraction, Skull Island Reign of Kong ; and two kick-ass coasters , The Incredible Hulk and Jurassic World VelociCoaster . You will get completely soaked on the two water attractions at Toon Lagoon, Popeye & Bluto's Bilge-Rat Barges (a river raft ride) and Dudley Do-Right's Ripsaw Falls (a log flume ride). Our advice: Wear sandals and a bathing suit unless you want squishy socks and wet underwear.

• Check out other must-see attractions in our picks for the 12 best rides at Universal Orlando .
• If you’re really into screaming, check out the resort’s 11 most thrilling rides .
• If you will have young children visiting the park with you, then you’ll want to target Universal’s best rides for kids . Seuss Landing, which is themed to the books and characters created by Dr. Seuss, is specifically designed for youngsters.

We have more articles for you to peruse, including how to enjoy Universal Orlando if you hate thrill rides as well as an overview of the best of Universal Orlando . 

Courtesy of Universal Orlando Resort

The food is generally quite good throughout Universal Orlando, and Islands of Adventure is no exception. The full-service Mythos Restaurant, which boasts wild architecture themed to the Greek Gods, is particularly good. The varied menu includes everything from pad Thai to grilled lamb chops. The menu at Confisco's Grille, located near the front of the park, is perhaps even more eclectic. The food is on par with Mythos, but the restaurant is generally less busy.

Because everything is so close to one another, you could easily leave the park for a meal at CityWalk and return. One of our favorite restaurants there is The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen for its huge menu filled with tasty dishes, creative and scrumptious milkshakes, and a whimsical steampunk theme. Other good choices include Bigfire, which features delicious wood-charred dishes, and Vivo Italian Kitchen, which gives guests scissors to cut their pizzas.

We strongly recommend that you make advance reservations for Universal’s full-service restaurants or you may find that you’ll either have a really long wait or be shut out all together. Reservation info is available by clicking on the restaurant of your choice at Universal Orlando’s Web site .

For quick-service restaurants, consider Three Broomsticks, the Harry Potter-themed eatery in Hogsmeade. There you will find English fare such as shepherd's pie and beef pasties. Many quick-service restaurants, including Three Broomsticks offer mobile food ordering via Universal’s phone app.

You haven’t truly visited Islands of Adventure until you have tried Butterbeer, the incredibly popular Potter-themed beverage . It comes in a variety of forms, all of which are delicious and addictive.

You could stay off property and probably save money—but not that much. Operated in partnership with Loew’s Hotels, Universal Orlando’s hotels come in a variety of tiers. With the opening of the Endless Summer resorts, Surfside Inn and Suites, and Dockside Inn and Suites, Universal has set a new bar in affordable, “value” hotels. Prices are generally comparable to budget properties along International Drive and in Kissimmee, but the hotels offer surprisingly comfortable and lovely accommodations as well as benefits such as early admission to the parks and complimentary transportation to the parks. As noted above, the Endless Summer properties are detached from the main campus but are a short shuttle bus away.

A step up from Endless Summer are the Prime Value properties: Aventura Hotel and Cabana Bay Beach Resort . The latter offers a compelling, retro, mid-century theme and perhaps the best pools of any Universal hotel. The rates are affordable, and, as with Endless Summer, Cabana Bay has suites that can accommodate large groups, but don’t command high rates.

Universal’s mid-range Preferred-level property, Sapphire Falls Resort, has a Caribbean vibe that extends to its island-inspired eateries, Amatista Cookhouse and Strong Water Tavern. The top-level Premier properties include the Royal Pacific Resort , the Hard Rock Hotel, and the Portofino Bay Hotel. All are exquisitely themed and nicely appointed.

In addition to affordability, there are other compelling reasons to consider staying at Universal’s hotels . Check out our picks for Universal Orlando’s best hotels .

The primary airport serving Universal Orlando is  Orlando International Airport. To get to and from the airport, which is about 25 minutes away, Universal offers SuperStar Shuttle , a shared shuttle bus service. A less expensive shuttle service, Mears , is also available. Other options include taxis, ride sharing services such as Uber and Lyft, and rental cars.

• Purchase park tickets  in advance . Save time by bypassing the ticket lines at the park and, more significantly, save money on the discounted online rates.
• Consider the value that Universal’s Premier hotels offer. In addition to the amenities, themeing, and upscale aesthetics, guests receive complimentary 2-Park Universal Express Unlimited ride passes included in the room rate. Pass holders get to skip the regular lines of most attractions as many times as they wish. The passes can sell for over $200 per person during busy periods. That can make the hotel rates a particularly good deal, especially at the Royal Pacific, which offers the lowest rates of the three Premier properties.
• Check Universal Orlando’s official site for special deals and offers . The resort offers money-saving hotel and ticket combo packages.
• If you or somebody in your family is a member of the military or a veteran, you could save money on park tickets by purchasing a discounted Military Freedom Pass . Universal Orlando began offering the special passes in 2021. The resort also offers members of the military discounted stays at its hotels as well as vacation packages.

Your Trip to Universal Orlando: The Complete Guide

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10 Best Reasons to Stay at a Universal Orlando Hotel

Tips for Visiting the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Plan Your Visit to Universal Orlando

Ways to Skip the Lines at Universal Orlando

Your Guide to Visiting Universal Orlando During the Pandemic

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Universal Orlando Tickets: Prices, Discounts, and Where to Buy

November at Universal Orlando: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

The Best Time of Year to Visit Universal Orlando

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1-Day Islands of Adventure Touring Plan for 2024!

This post may contain affiliate links, view our disclosure policy .

Are you looking for the perfect 1-day Islands of Adventure touring plan to outsmart the crowds and get the most out of your experience at Islands of Adventure?

Need a summary of Universal Express Pass tips, arrival, and rope drop tips, as well as tips on how to plan your day in the park to maximize efficiency and decrease time spent standing in lines?

Our Islands of Adventure touring plan highlights all of these topics and offers a step-by-step morning and afternoon itinerary for spending 1-day at Universal’s Islands of Adventure.

Be sure to stick around to the end for additional information and touring tips for the Harry Potter fans in your group!

Table of Contents

Universal Studios Orlando Resort

For those of you who are new to the Universal experience, Florida’s Universal Orlando Resort consists of:

• Two theme parks ( Universal Studios  and  Islands of Adventure )
• A water theme park ( Volcano Bay )
• A shopping, restaurant, and entertainment complex ( Universal CityWalk Orlando )
• Six onsite Loews Hotels
• An upcoming theme park called Epic Universe that is expected to open in 2025.

Together, this theme park and entertainment resort complex covers 541 acres of land and welcomes over 11 million annual visitors from all around the world.

The following article is a sample 1-day touring plan for Florida’s  Islands of Adventure  theme park whose primary attraction is The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade.

The best itinerary for Islands of Adventure involves utilizing this practical touring plan and customizing your final ride and attraction choices based on your family’s interests.

Islands of Adventure Touring Plan

Touring plans make it easy for you to get the most out of an experience by outlining the order you should visit rides and attractions, allowing you to enjoy the top experiences in the park.

Having a game plan before heading into the park is one of our 45 tops for visiting Universal Orlando that you absolutely don’t wait to miss!

Both our Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios touring plans were created for those visiting the Universal theme parks for one day each.

This itinerary also assumes that you are entering the park at the opening time and staying into the evening, giving you plenty of hours to see and do everything.

Finally, although we utilized this Islands of Adventure itinerary while staying on-site (which granted us automatic Universal Express Passes), it may still be used by visitors who do not have an Express Pass – we’ll show you how!

Want to know how we got free Express Passes? Learn all about our stay at Loews Royal Pacific !

Islands of Adventure Hours

Universal’s Islands of Adventure hours vary, by the day, by the month, and by the season.

It is very important to check the  Theme Parks Hours schedule  for the day that you plan on visiting Islands of Adventure so that you can plan your experience accordingly.

The Universal Studios theme park hour calendar also includes information on what days offer Islands of Adventure Early Park Admission, as well as lists temporary attraction closure information.

Early Park Admission  is a free perk when you book a Universal vacation package, stay at a resort hotel, or use your Preferred or Premier Annual Pass.

This perk allows you to enter a designated Universal theme park 1-hour before the scheduled opening (select days only).

Additional planning tip:  Take note that Islands of Adventure and CityWalk hours, as well as daily showtimes, are not released until approximately 1 calendar month in advance.

Islands of Adventure Crowd Calendar

Our Islands of Adventure itinerary assumes moderate to high crowds at the park when lines are expected to be long.

This exact plan was utilized when crowds were rated 9/10 according to  Touring Plans .

No matter when you visit, however, this 1-Day Islands of Adventure touring plan is optimized and ordered so that walking and your wait in lines are minimized.

Islands of Adventure Express Pass

There is no denying that when the Islands of Adventure crowd calendar predicts moderate to high crowds, waiting in lines can become incredibly draining and time-consuming.

To help offset time spent standing in lines, Islands of Adventure allows you to add Universal Express access to your theme park admission.

Universal Express is an  all-day  pass that allows you to skip the regular lines – and use a special Express Pass line – at select Universal attractions.

If you are staying on-site at one of  Universal’s premier resort hotels , Universal Express Unlimited is free for every day of your visit. (Your hotel keycard serves as your Universal Express pass.)

If you are not staying on-site and wish to purchase Universal Express passes, the cost varies by day and expected crowds – so during peak times, prices will be higher.

Current prices can be found on the Universal Orlando Resort website .

Additional planning tip:  Universal Express is separate from regular admission. In other words, you must purchase BOTH an Islands of Adventure base ticket along with an Express Pass add-on.

It’s easiest to buy both your theme pass tickets and Express passes online ahead of time (though there are kiosks in the park for Express Passes as well).

Click here to find out the qualifying rides, exact wait times, and an explanation of whether or not we think Universal Express is worth it !

1-Day Islands of Adventure Itinerary

Prior to visiting Islands of Adventure, we recommend that you download the official Universal Orlando Resort app on the  App Store  or the  Google Play Store .

The app provides wait times, showtimes, a resort-wide map, and a chance to make ride reservations via the Virtual Line experience when capacity is being closely managed.

When available, the Virtual Line experience allows guests to pick a time to return to an attraction via the app, so they’re reducing the time they’re waiting in the physical queue line.

Virtual Line availability and selections will vary daily, and guests should visit the app while onsite to view available attractions.

In the past, Virtual Line has been available for Skull Island: Reign of Kong, Pteranodon Flyers, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, Hagrid’s, and the Ollivander wand experience.

Additional planning tip: Keep in mind that the Virtual Line reservation system only works if you are physically inside the park and may not be available during the time of your visit.

Universal Orlando Resort has a parking and transportation structure consisting of two gigantic multi-story parking lots and a centralized transportation hub that allows you to access Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, CityWalk, and Volcano Bay.

The parking garage opens 2 hours before the official park opening to accommodate those eligible for Early Park Admission.  ($27/day for self-parking, $60/day for prime parking.)

If you are driving to the resort and are not eligible for Early Park Admission, we recommend arriving at the Universal parking garage 75 minutes prior to the official opening.

It then takes approximately 15 minutes to walk from the parking garage to the park’s entrance turnstiles.

This brings you to the entrance a perfect 60 minutes before the official opening.

Alternatively, Universal Orlando on-site resort transportation to the parks via water taxis and shuttles begins 2 hours before the official opening, or 1 hour before Early Park Admission.

Guests staying on-site during peak periods should catch the first ride of the morning in order to be the first into the Wizarding World during the early entry period.

Additional planning tip: Due to a strict bag and locker policy and the fact that personal belongings are not allowed on many of the rides, be sure to review what to bring to Universal in your day bag as you prepare for your visit.

Likewise, be sure to review the requirements associated with the lockers at Islands of Adventure as you will need to store your belongings while riding most rides.

Entering the Park

As of now, Universal Orlando does not require advanced reservations to get into any of their Orlando theme parks.

In addition, they are no longer limiting capacity as they had been during the pandemic.

With that said, we always recommend getting to the turnstiles 60 minutes prior to park opening, especially on projected busy days.

This act has long been known as ‘rope-drop’.

Rope drop involves getting to Islands of Adventure before it begins operating for the day so that you can be among the very first guests to enter and enjoy the attractions.

Rope dropping is the single most important key to an efficient touring plan in order to avoid long lines. First thing in the morning, there are shorter lines and fewer people.

The same four rides you experience in 1 hour upon rope dropping can take as long as 3 hours after 10:30 AM.

Additional planning tip:  On days when Islands of Adventure does not offer Early Park Admission, the gates typically open 30 minutes before the advertised opening.

At this time, guests are allowed in and held at either the entry into Seuss Landing (Hagrid’s Motorbike rope drop) or Marvel Super Hero Island (Incredible Hulk rope drop).

While waiting, use your Universal app to see if any Virtual Line reservations are available for that day.

Islands of Adventure Touring Plan: Morning

Because of their enormous popularity and the fact that neither of them qualifies for Express Pass, we recommend your first rides be either of the two biggest headliners in the park: Hagrid’s Creatures Motorbike Adventure or Jurassic World VelociCoaster (Islands of Adventure’s newest ride).

I personally recommend doing Hagrid’s first, as most people will be heading to VelociCoaster first just because it’s newer.

With that said, begin the approximate 15 – 16 minute walks to Hogsmeade immediately upon rope drop without stopping for anything.

When you arrive at Hogsmeade, get in line for Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and experience what we think is one of the best theme park rides of all time!

Then make your way to VelociCoaster – an absolutely amazing thrill ride that you’re gonna love!

Additional planning tip: Be aware that both Hagrid’s and VelociCoaster are known to experience occasional technical difficulties upon opening and/or throughout the day.

If and when this happens, it will throw a major wrench in your touring plan.

If either of these rides are shut down upon park opening, start with the Incredible Hulk Coaster.

Morning Itinerary

Our morning Islands of Adventure itinerary contains several of the overall best rides at Islands of Adventure !

Along with being the best rides, they also experience the longest wait times.

For this reason, we suggest visiting them as soon as possible upon park opening.

This will require a bit of zig-zagging due to the layout of the park being that of a loop – but nonetheless, it will lead to the shortest waits at some of the most popular rides.

*Rides with (EP) written behind them qualify for Universal Express Pass.

1. Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure

2. Jurassic World VelociCoaster

From there, I recommend heading back to Hogsmeade as the afternoon crowds there are outrageous.

Plus, as one of the most exciting parts about the park, it’s hard to save it for last.

3. Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey (EP)

4. Flight of the Hippogriff (EP)

5. Get a butterbeer…of course , then walk quickly back to the front of the park and ride:

6. The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man (EP)

7. The Incredible Hulk Coaster (EP)

8. Doctor Doom’s Fearfall (EP) – we personally, always skip this one.

Note:  This plan does not assume you’re using  child swap , which allows parents to swap supervising a child who does not meet a height requirement without waiting in line twice.

If you do use child swap, your day will move more slowly as you have to wait for two people to ride each ride.

Islands of Adventure Touring Plan: Afternoon

1. Lunch at the Comic Strip Cafe: This quick-service restaurant lane is located in Toon Lagoon.

The menu features burgers, hot dogs, pizza, pasta, Chinese cuisine, fish, chicken, and more – something that everyone will enjoy!

2. Skull Island:  Reign of Kong (EP) – expect a long wait, unless using Express Pass

3. Jurassic Park River Adventure (EP) -expect a long wait, unless using Express Pass

4. Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls (EP)

5. Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges

6. Pteranodon Flyers

7. If you and your kids have an interest, explore Seuss Landing and ride:

• The Cat in the Hat (EP)
• One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish (EP)
• The High in the Sky Seuss Trolley (EP)
• Caro-Seuss-el (EP)

8. Poseidon’s Fury (EP) With a visit to Mystic Fountain afterward

9. Last, head back to Hogsmeade and experience The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle which are displayed on select dates and start times .

10…And if you still have energy, ride Hagrid’s and VelicoCoaster again!

To recap, here’s a rough outline of what your Islands of Adventure itinerary should look like.

• Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
• Jurassic World VelociCoaster
• Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
• Flight of the Hippogriff
• The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man
• Incredible Hulk Coaster
• Doctor Doom’s Fearfall
• Skull Island: Reign of Kong
• Jurassic Park River Adventure
• Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls
• Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges
• Pteranodon Flyers
• The Cat in the Hat
• One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish
• The High in the Sky Seuss Trolley
• Caro-Seuss-el
• Poseidon’s Fury
• Mystic Fountain

Universal Studios Dining

One of the  top tips for visiting Universal Orlando Resort  is to skip the typical hot dogs and chicken tenders in order to indulge in the unique (and amazing!) dining options that are exclusive to Islands of Adventure.

In fact, the best itinerary for Islands of Adventure includes eating at a themed restaurant, such as The Three Broomsticks in Hogsmeade.

Its traditional British food and perfectly Harry Potter rustic tavern-themed atmosphere make for an experience that you simply cannot find anywhere else.

Check out this super helpful guide to all the  best food and drinks at Universal Orlando Resort  for more information.

And don’t forget! Universal offers several different dining plans that can add convenience and help you save money.

We like using the Quick Service dining plan which can be purchased right at the register. It includes a quick service meal (entree + drink), and a snack.

Additional planning tip:  You can make online reservations ahead of time for full-service restaurants and Universal CityWalk in order to avoid the lines during busy seasons.

If You Want More Harry Potter Fun

For Harry Potter fans, a trip to Universal Orlando Resort tops their list of must-see-and-do vacation destinations!

If you’re a Potterhead you will absolutely not be disappointed by the immersive theming of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Likewise, you’ll definitely want to add additional time to your Islands of Adventure itinerary in order to enjoy it.

Universal’s Harry Potter experience includes Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida and Hogsmeade at Islands of Adventure.

You must buy a Park-to-Park ticket to be able to visit both parts of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in one day by way of riding Hogwart’s Express.

Along with the other 29  best tips for visiting the Wizarding World of Harry Potter , be sure to stop inside the famous Ollivander’s Wand shop in either Hogsmeade or Diagon Alley.

Here, you can purchase both standard and interactive wizard wands as well as participate in a wand-fitting demonstration. 

Through a sensor in the tip of the interactive wands, wanna-be wizards and witches can perform 25 spells through both Diagon Alley  and  Hogsmeade.

This requires being on the lookout for gold medallions along the walkways signaling you when to cast spells.

Potterheads can look forward to lighting the chandelier in the window at Flimflam’s Lantern or to repairing a suit of armor at the blacksmith’s with a simple wave of their wand.

I am confident that you’re now off to a great start in planning your day at Islands of Adventure! What was the most helpful part of the Islands of Adventure touring plan? Jen

If you liked reading our 1-day Islands of Adventure itinerary, continue planning your Universal Orlando vacation here:

Universal Orlando Touring Plans:

• Universal Studios Touring Plan: 1-Day Itinerary

Universal Orlando Tips:

• 45 Tips for your First-Time Visit to Universal Orlando
• What to Bring to Universal Studios (+Day Bag Tips)
• 9 Big Differences Between Disney World and Universal Studios
• Loews Royal Pacific at Universal Orlando: 9 Reasons to Stay
• A Complete Guide to the Lockers at Universal Orlando
• The 7 Best Restaurants in Universal Citywalk

Universal Orlando Rides:

• Top 7 Best Rides at Islands of Adventure
• Top 7 Best Rides at Universal Studios Florida
• Is Universal Express Pass Worth It? A Detailed Look!

*Click here for our exclusive FREE Family Vacation Packing List and BONUS Theme Park Bag Packing List to complement your Universal vacation!

* Before leaving, be sure to check our  Travel Resources Page  to find exclusive travel discounts and to book hotels, rental cars, and guided tours.*

Jen Brommer is a family travel expert. She has been featured as an authority on several notable travel websites and is a member of the Family Travel Association (FTA), Midwest Travel Network, and TravMedia global media network.

A prominent content creator and influencer on Instagram, Jen has over 150K unique monthly blog readers from countries all over the world. She has spent the last 16 years planning fun, and hassle-free family vacations for her family of 5.

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If we ever make it back to Universal I will definitely give your tips a try!

Thanks for reading! We are hoping to get back there sometime soon too!!

This looks like a great day! We’ve never been, but hope that we can visit sometime soon.

It is a great theme park! You definitely won’t regret going!!

This might be my number one post quarantine place we are going to go! I still have not been!

Meet ya there! Ha 🙂

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Universal's Islands of Adventure

Last updated: April 30, 2024

Islands of Adventure (IOA) is the Universal park most similar to Disney’s Magic Kingdom . It has kid-friendly rides and cartoon characters, thrill rides in a sci-fi city, and a boat ride past animatronic animals. It’s also got Hogsmeade – an entire land devoted to Harry Potter – and Seuss Landing , dedicated to the cartoon characters of Dr. Seuss. Islands of Adventure is the most popular of Universal Orlando’s theme parks. It’s got more than two dozen attractions, doesn’t require park reservations, and is constantly updated with new rides. Islands of Adventure will feel crowded even during the low season. We can help you see everything with minimal waits in line.

Today's Park Information and Crowd Levels

Islands of Adventure Current Closures / Refurbishments

When to visit.

Islands of Adventure is one of the most-visited theme parks in America. It also draws crowds from Universal Studios Florida next door. That makes it tough to figure out the best time to go. Luckily, that’s what TouringPlans does well.

We track wait times at Islands of Adventure all day, every day of the year. Check the Crowd Calendar to see what what times will be like on the day of your visit. Crowd Levels vary a lot depending on when you choose to go. Levels can change often, too, so make sure to check back often.

Islands of Adventure Waits In Line

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Planning Your Day

Islands of Adventure’s lands are placed around a giant lagoon, meaning you’ve got to walk through one land to get to another. And the popular lands like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Hogsmeade and Marvel Super Hero Island are on opposite sides of the park. With everything spread out, it’s hard for first-timers to see where crowds are forming. With the right planning and the right tools, you can save a lot of time standing in line.

At TouringPlans we use data and math to make your vacation better.

See which Islands of Adventure attractions are best for your family. We’ve collected over 80,000 guest surveys from every ride, show, and attraction in Universal Orlando. Results are organized by age group, so you can find the best things to do for your family.

See Islands of Adventure Attractions and Ratings →

See which attractions benefit most from Universal Express. Universal Express has rules. And Universal won't tell you how to get the most for your money. We will.

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Save up to 2 hours a day, using our researched and tested plans, or create and customize your own.

Use our app to keep you updated throughout your stay with the latest park hours, closures, and wait times.

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“i rode velocicoaster 5x, and it's more incredible every time”, what to see and do.

Hogsmeade is the first theme park land ever dedicated to Harry Potter. Islands of Adventure continues to expand the land’s rides, shows, and activities. Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventures is the highest-rated attraction in the park, and one of the highest-rated rides in any Disney or Universal theme park in the country.

Don’t Miss These Harry Potter Attractions:

Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey

Hogwarts Express - Hogsmeade Station

Ollivanders Experience in Hogsmeade

Many of islands of adventure’s other top-rated attractions are thrill rides:.

Jurassic World VelociCoaster

The Incredible Hulk Coaster

The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man

Jurassic Park River Adventure

These are the Top-Rated Attractions for Small Kids at Islands of Adventure:

Dudley Do-Right's Ripsaw Falls

Popeye & Bluto's Bilge-Rat Barges

Flight of the Hippogriff

The High in the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride!

Once it's dark, most nights the Hogwarts Castle facade in Hogsmeade serves as the canvas for a Harry Potter-themed projection show. Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle is the standard show, but there variations for the Halloween and Christmas seasons.

Check out how you can make the most of your time with our Attraction listings with reviews and ratings.

Parades & Entertainment

Find show times and plan how to work this fun into your day using our Lines UOR app or the link below.

Lines are inevitable, but we can recommend the best times to visit each attraction in Islands of Adventure. See sample wait times below.

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For a more relaxed sit-down meal, Islands of Adventure has two choices, but only one of them is rated above average: Mythos Restaurant , which serves pizzas, pastas, sandwiches, and salads. With over 11,000 restaurant surveys from Islands of Adventure, we’ll show you where to find the best food and best values for your family’s meals.

It’s safe to say that Islands of Adventure probably made enough money selling butterbeer in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter to pay for the entire park. Butterbeer is so popular that you can get it in three varieties: as a soda, a frozen slushie, and hot. Butterbeer is the highest-rated food item in Islands of Adventure, and it’s not even close. Don’t miss it. Because there’s so much to see at Islands of Adventure, a fast meal at a quick service restaurant is probably your best bet. The highest rated quick service restaurant in the park is Three Broomsticks , in Hogsmeade, serving fish 'n chips, shepherd’s pie, Cornish pasty, ribs, chicken, and salads. Next-best is Fire Eater's Grill , serving gyros, chicken tenders, hot dogs, and salads.

Dining resources to make your trip delicious

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New DreamWorks Land is just the beginning. Universal Orlando shares big summer plans.

Dreamworks land at universal orlando to open june 2024. when does epic universe, the brand new theme park, open sometime in 2025..

Ever wanted to train alongside Po, perform with Poppy or even swim in the swamp with Shrek? You'll soon get your wish (except that last one).

Universal Orlando Resort revealed its new DreamWorks Land will officially debut on June 14, along with several other new experiences for guests to enjoy this summer.

“We are thrilled to debut an array of never-before-seen experiences for the entire family to enjoy from day to night,” Karen Irwin, President & COO of Universal Orlando Resort, said in a press release. “These new experiences – coupled with the amazing attractions currently in our theme parks – will allow our guests to create lasting memories that will make this summer truly unforgettable.”

Where is DreamWorks Land?

The new themed environment inspired by DreamWorks Animation films and characters will be located where  Woody Woodpecker's KidZone used to be, near E.T. Adventure.

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Starting June 14, guests can explore the vivid worlds of some of DreamWorks Animation’s most beloved characters from "Shrek," "Trolls" and "Kung Fu Panda."

"The expansive new area will feature interactive play areas, character meet-and-greets, an all-new indoor live show experience, unique treats and photo-worthy moments that are fun for the whole family," Universal Orlando shared. "Guests will be able to explore Shrek’s Swamp, enjoy the Trollercoaster, interact with Po in the Panda Village, encounter characters like Gabby from 'Gabby’s Dollhouse' and so much more."

Several popular characters will also be featured in a new multisensory live show called DreamWorks Imagination Celebration.

New fountain and drone show coming to Universal Studios Florida

Universal Studios Florida lagoon will come to life with an all-new nighttime show, CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular.

Universal shared the new show will include iconic scores and scenes from films that have inspired Universal Orlando’s past, present and future attractions – including Warner Bros. Pictures' "Harry Potter" and "Fantastic Beasts" films, "Jurassic World," "Jaws," "Shrek," "Ghostbusters," "Trolls," "Back to the Future," Universal monsters, "Transformers," "How to Train Your Dragon," "E.T.," "Fast and Furious," "The Super Mario Bros. Movie," "Minions," "The Mummy," and "King Kong."

The lagoon show will feature 228 fountains reaching heights of up to 131 feet, 4K projection mapping, an original composition featuring newly arranged scores meticulously crafted for each scene, and more than 600 drones.

Universal and more for under $100 a day: Summer ticket deals at Florida theme parks

Universal Orlando to debut new parade based on beloved films

Universal's new parade is perfect for any parkgoers who love films. Beginning Wednesday, July 3, Universal Studios Florida will debut its Universal Mega Movie Parade – a spectacular celebration of iconic movies.  

"Universal Mega Movie Parade will be Universal Orlando’s biggest daytime parade to date and combine 13 brand new floats, nearly 100 performers – including dancers, skaters, stilt walkers, poi performers and more – and special effects to create a jaw-dropping experience where guests can relive classic film moments in a whole new way," Universal shared in its press release.

New themed merchandise heading to parks

Guests visiting the parks can already start gearing up for the new entertainment coming this summer with specialty merchandise celebrating the new experiences, including clothing, drinkware, headbands themed to beloved DreamWorks characters, and more.

In the coming months, Universal Orlando’s Summer Tribute Store will complement the new parade experience and feature themed rooms, merchandise, and photo ops inspired by some of the films that will be seen in the Universal Mega Movie Parade.

Hogwarts Castle gets a new Harry Potter-inspired projection show

Universal officials conjured up some magic for its final announcement.

On select nights, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade at Universal Orlando's Islands of Adventure will delight guests with a new nighttime projection show, Hogwarts Always. The show seeks to take guests on a journey through iconic moments of a school year at Hogwarts, all set against the majestic backdrop of Hogwarts Castle.

The show will also feature four different endings that celebrate each Hogwarts house and will culminate with a colorful pyrotechnic display. Fans should also listen for dialogue from beloved characters like Professor Dumbledore, Hagrid, the Sorting Hat and more throughout the show.

What month will Epic Universe open?

In addition to DreamWorks Land and all the other new experiences, Universal Orlando will see some other exciting additions to its resort soon — a brand  new theme park . Just not this year.

Universal hasn’t yet announced an opening date for Epic Universe, only that it will open in 2025.

Epic Universe will feature five lands guests can explore. Altogether, it will have “more than 50 awe-inspiring attractions, entertainment, dining and shopping experiences,” according to a press release from the resort.

• Celestial Park   – The first-world guests enter the park will feature relaxing gardens, a “wet play area,” a grand carousel, and Starfall Racers, a dual-launch racing roller coaster with 5,000 feet of track and speeds up to 62 miles per hour. Celestial Park will also serve as the gateway to Epic Universe’s four other worlds, which will be accessed by themed portals.
• How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk  will give fans of the “ How to Train Your Dragon ” franchise a chance to finally soar like Hiccup, Astrid and their fellow Dragon Riders do on screen.
• Dark Universe  - Guests can expect to “encounter everything from the experiments of Dr. Victoria Frankenstein to the shadowy landscape where monsters roam in a world of myth and mystery.”
• Super Nintendo World  will bring guests into the fan-favorite video game franchise for adventures with Mario, Princess Peach and more, like at  Universal Studios Hollywood .
• The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Ministry of Magic  will blend "1920s wizarding Paris from Warner Bros. Pictures’ ‘Fantastic Beasts’ films with the iconic British Ministry of Magic from the Harry Potter series,” according to Universal Orlando, which is already home to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Hogsmeade and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley.

Contributing: Eve Chen, USA TODAY

New 'Hogwarts Always' Castle Projection Show at Universal Islands of Adventure Will Have Four Different Endings

T he Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade in Universal Islands of Adventure is getting a new castle projection show: “Hogwarts Always.”

“Hogwarts Always”

The show, debuting on June 14 , replaces  “The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle,” which closed for “refurbishment” last May.

“Hogwarts Always” will be performed on select nights, taking “guests on a journey through iconic moments of a school year at Hogwarts.”

From supply shopping in Diagon Alley, and the exhilarating ride aboard the Hogwarts Express, to participating in the Sorting Ceremony, celebrating the House Cup winner and so much more, this visually stunning experience promises to captivate witches, wizards and Muggles of all ages.

“Always” is a reference to a famous Professor Snape line in “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows,” the final book and film in the original series.

There will be four different endings to “Hogwarts Always,” each celebrating a different Hogwarts house (Gryffindor, Slytherin, Hufflepuff, or Ravenclaw). The show will culminate in a colorful pyrotechnic display. There will be dialogue from Professor Dumbledore, Hagrid, the Sorting Hat, and more “Harry Potter” characters.

Watch our video of the final performance of “The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle” at Universal Islands of Adventure below.

For more Universal Studios news from around the world, follow Universal Parks News Today on Twitter , Facebook , and Instagram . For Disney Parks news, visit WDWNT .

The post New ‘Hogwarts Always’ Castle Projection Show at Universal Islands of Adventure Will Have Four Different Endings appeared first on WDW News Today .

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• VIP Tour Experience at Universal Orlando Resort

If you’re looking for the red-carpet experience at Universal Orlando Resort, a VIP Experience guided tour may be just the thing for you. With multiple options spanning both Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure , this is a perfect way to feel like a celebrity as you “live the movies.”

Each VIP Tour permutation has its own special benefits, which we cover for you in-depth on this page. Before we do, however, it’s really important to point out one key item: the VIP Experience does not include theme-park admission. Please keep this in mind when pricing everything out.

Now, with that out of the way, let’s walk that red carpet!

Skip to: Overview | Options | Pricing | FAQ

What is the VIP Experience?

No matter which VIP Tour you choose, there are a few key benefits that you’re guaranteed to enjoy. The first, as you might have guessed, is a VIP tour guide to escort you on a group tour through Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, or both. These guides are experts on all things Universal Orlando, so even if you think you know everything there is to know about the parks, you’re sure to be blown away by the fun facts and insider knowledge they share with you.

All VIP Tours also offer priority front-of-the-line access to all rides and attractions, including the ever-elusive Pteranadon Flyers and all of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter . (Yes, that means you’ll get to ride Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure with no line, virtual or otherwise!) Other benefits of VIP Tours include:

• Exclusive behind-the-scenes experiences (photography not permitted)
• Complimentary Valet parking
• Reserved seating at shows (excluding the seasonal Mardi Gras and Mannheim Steamroller concerts)
• Complimentary continental breakfast and lunch
• Unlimited Express Pass access throughout the rest of the day following your tour
• Exclusive VIP lanyard and credentials
• Discounts at select Universal merchandise locations throughout the resort

How many VIP Tour options are there?

Before you get to reap all those VIP rewards, you’ll have to first choose which experience is right for you. We’ve broken down all the options below:

1-Day, 1-Park Experience

A 1-Day, 1-Park VIP Tour lasts for five hours and includes priority entrance into a minimum of eight major attractions at either Universal Studios Florida or Islands of Adventure (you get to choose the park, though your tour guide sets the itinerary). And while you will receive all of the benefits listed above, keep in mind that you’ll only enjoy a free continental breakfast if your tour begins at or before 11:00 am. Generally, though, the 1-Day, 1-Park Experience kicks off at 9:30 am, so your chances of enjoying that meal are high!

1-Day, 2-Park Experience

A 1-Day, 2-Park VIP Tour lasts for seven hours and includes priority entrance into a minimum of 10 attractions at both Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. Besides the additional park and tour length, the main difference between a 1-Day, 2-Park Experience and its singular-park counterpart is that this version includes lunch at a full-service restaurant. You can expect this tour to (usually) begin at 9:30, 10:30, or 11:30 in the morning.

Private VIP Experience

If you’d rather travel with just your own party, rather than in a group with other individuals, you can opt for the exclusive VIP treatment with this experience (which lasts for the whole day!). Besides receiving the undivided attention of your tour guide, the main draw of this option is the chance to create your own itinerary (for the non-private VIP Tours, your guide lays out the agenda for you). You’ll also enjoy three full-service meals, including dinner, at one of Universal Orlando’s restaurants and receive a three-day My Universal Photos package.

There are a few options if you’re in the market for a Private VIP Experience, including the only two-day tour available:

• 1-Day, 1-Park Tour (availability may vary)
• 1-Day, 2-Park Tour
• 2-Day, 2-Park Tour

How much does a VIP Experience cost?

As you might have guessed, the price of your VIP experience will vary drastically depending upon which tack you take. The one consistent here, though, is that all ticket prices are the same regardless of age – that means your two-year-old will have to pay just as much as you do to enjoy all that exclusive access!

• 1-Day, 1-Park: $229
• 1-Day, 2-Park: $239
• Private VIP experiences: prices vary; call 1-866-346-9350

Remember: in addition to the cost of a VIP Tour, separate theme-park admission is required. Furthermore, guests that are under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.

VIP Experience Breakfast Menu

Available to Private and Non-Private VIP Tours that start at or before 11:00 am

House Baked Pastries

Dark Chocolate Chip Muffin

Flaky Butter Croissant

Blueberry Streusel Muffin

Elderberry Croissant

Fresh Cut Fruit

Golden Ripe Pineapple

Vine Ripe Strawberries

Oats & Yogurt

Overnight Oats Steeped in almond milk, agave, crunchy almonds, chia seeds, toasted coconut flakes

Vanilla Bean Yogurt Whole grain oat and wheat granola with slivered almonds and cinnamon

Warm Apple Oatmeal Flan

Hot Offerings

Applewood Smoked Bacon

Pork Sausage Links

Fluffy Scrambled Eggs

Red Bliss Potatoes Served with carmelized onions

Savory Buttermilk Biscuit Sandwich Filled with braised mushrooms, leeks, scrambled eggs

VIP Experience at Universal Orlando – frequently asked questions

Do i need to buy a vip experience ticket in advance.

No, you don’t need to, but we strongly recommend it, as quantities are limited, and – you never know – Universal may sell out the morning of your arrival. Just as with Halloween Horror Nights , our motto is it’s better to play it safe and order in advance than be disappointed the day of!

Do I get to choose my itinerary for a VIP Experience?

That depends on which VIP Tour you go with. For the Non-Private 1-Day, 1-Park or 1-Day, 2-Park experiences, you’ll be touring with other traveling parties, so in the spirit of fairness, the day’s agenda will be determined by your tour guide. If you’d rather make the plans yourself, you’ll need to purchase a Private VIP Experience.

Is a VIP Experience worth it?

It depends on what you’re looking to get out of it. If you’ll only be in Orlando for a few days and want to make the most of your time at Universal Orlando Resort, a VIP Tour is a great way to do so. The priority front-of-the-line access can’t be beaten, along with the exclusive backstage experiences and insider tips from the VIP guides. Even if you’re a seasoned Universal veteran, you’re still bound to learn something new thanks to their expertise.

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Universal orlando | walmart to close all 51 health centers, including 8 in central florida, things to do, theme parks, universal orlando, universal orlando | universal reveals new parade, lagoon show, dreamworks land’s opening date.

Universal Orlando has set an opening day for its DreamWorks Land at Universal Studios theme park and unveiled summertime plans for a new parade, new nighttime lagoon show and new castle projection show at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Hogsmeade.

DreamWorks Land is scheduled to debut June 14, Universal announced Monday. The area will feature activities based on movies such as “Shrek,” “Trolls” and “Kung Fu Panda.”  It will also feature a “multisensory live show” titled “DreamWorks Imagination Celebration.” The new land, which includes a ride called Trollercoaster, has been built on part of the former Woody’s KidZone , which closed in January 2023.

June 14 will also mark the first performance of “CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular,” a nighttime show with 600 drones, 228 fountains and 4K projection mapping. Universal said the show will use music and scenes from films that have “inspired Universal Orlando’s past, present and future attractions.”   It listed “Jaws,” “Ghostbusters,” “Back to the Future,” “King Kong,” “E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial,” “Fantastic Beasts,” “How to Train Your Dragon” and others.

Disney sets August start date for Epcot Food & Wine fest

That evening, “Hogwarts Always” will debut next door at Islands of Adventure theme park. The show will feature “iconic moments of a school year” at Hogwarts, Universal said.

The new Universal Mega Movie Parade will roll into Universal Studios on July 3.  It will be the park’s largest daytime parade to date, the resort said, with 13 new floats, almost 100 performers and a 16-foot Stay Puft Marshmallow Man on the “Ghostbusters” float.  A “Jurassic Park” unit will bring up the rear of the parade.

Icon Park introduces fresh eats, more live music

Universal has not shared a daily schedule for the new presentations, although its website lists the parade, castle show and lagoon show as being presented on “select days.”

Email me at [email protected] . Threads account: @dbevil . X account: @themeparks . Subscribe to the Theme Park Rangers newsletter at orlandosentinel.com/newsletters .

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Universal Orlando announces DreamWorks Land opening date: What to know

• Updated: Apr. 29, 2024, 8:31 p.m. |
• Published: Apr. 29, 2024, 2:45 p.m.

"Hogwarts Always" -- a new nighttime projection show, is among the new summer attractions announced by Universal Orlando Resort. (Universal Orlando Resort)

• Warren Kulo | [email protected]

Universal Orlando Resort will open its newest land -- DreamWorks Land -- on June 14, the Florida resort announced Monday, but the new land isn’t the only new attraction set to debut this summer.

DreamWorks Land will feature characters from DreamWorks Animation, including Shrek, Trolls and Kung Fu Panda. Built on the site of the former KidZone inside Universal Studios park, the new land will feature rides including a Trolls Trollercoaster, Po’s Kung Fu Training Camp and Shrek’s Swamp Meet.

Guests can also enjoy their favorite characters in DreamWorks Imagination Celebration -- “a multisensory live show that will bring beloved DreamWorks stories to life like never before,” according to NBCUniversal.

Also set to debut this summer is CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular -- a new nighttime show in the lagoon inside the resort’s Universal Studios park; Hogwarts Always, a new castle projection show in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter’s Hogsmede section in Islands of Adventure; and what the park is billing as its “largest daytime parade to date,” the Universal Mega Movie Parade.

“We are thrilled to debut an array of never-before-seen experiences for the entire family to enjoy from day to night,” said Karen Irwin, President & COO of Universal Orlando Resort. “These new experiences - coupled with the amazing attractions currently in our theme parks - will allow our guests to create lasting memories that will make this summer truly unforgettable.”

The company released additional details on the new attractions:

CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular : Set to debut alongside DreamWorks Land on June 14, the new show water-based show will celebrate the emotional power of music by leveraging the iconic scores and scenes from blockbuster films that have inspired Universal Orlando’s past, present and future attractions – including Warner Bros. Pictures Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films, Jurassic World , Jaws, Shrek, Ghostbusters, Trolls, Back to the Future, Universal Monsters, Transformers, How to Train Your Dragon, E.T., Fast and Furious, The Super Mario Bros. Movie, Minions, The Mummy and King Kong.

The lagoon show will feature 228 fountains reaching heights up to 131 feet; 4K projection mapping; an original composition featuring newly-arranged scores for each scene; and more than 600 drones -- “all coming together to envelop guests in a breathtaking display of unforgettable cinematic moments,” according to the resort.

Universal Mega Movie Parade : Scheduled to start July 3, the new daytime parade will be a celebration of iconic movies E.T. , Back to the Future , Jaws , Ghostbusters , Jurassic World , Illumination’s Minions and Sing and DreamWorks Animation’s Trolls and Kung Fu Panda . The parade will combine 13 new floats, nearly 100 performers – including dancers, skaters, stilt walkers, poi performers and more, coupled with special effects.

Parade-goers will see a 16-foot Stay Puft Marshmallow Man atop a Ghostbusters float; a Jaws-themed float with a drum line performing the score from the classic film; and a Gyrosphere, Raptors, and Tyrannosaurus rex on a Jurassic World float, among other elements.

The park’s rotating Tribute Store will be themed to the new parade experience, including new merchandise and photo opportunities inspired by the films featured in the parade.

Hogwarts Always castle projection show : The new projection show on Hogwarts Castle inside Hogsmede at Islands of Adventure will feature a tour de force of iconic moments of a school year at Hogwarts, including supply shopping in Diagon Alley, a ride aboard the Hogwarts Express, the Sorting Hat Ceremony, and celebrating the House Cup winner, among other elements.

The show will also feature four different endings geared to each of the four Hogwarts houses, and culminates with a pyrotechnic display.

Still to come, of course, is an opening date for Universal Orlando’s much-anticipated new park, Epic Universe, scheduled to open in 2025.

For more information, including ticket prices and hotel reservations, visit the Universal Orlando website .

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