Islands of Adventure

Universal owns two theme parks in Orlando, and here are the pictures of our day at Islands of Adventure. We had a great experience, even though we went on a Holiday (President's Day)  and I was expecting lots of people and long lines. There was none of that. The lines were not bad at all, and this park is also designed in a way that the waiting is an experience. The biggest draw here is the Harry Potter ride, and I have to say that it was amazing. I was truly impressed with the quality of the full experience. The ride itself was a simulation and you truly felt like you were flying high above the Hogwarts on a broomstick. Fun for kids and adults alike. 

This huge tower sits at the entrance to the theme park

Upon entering, you walk through this structure - pretty cool! 

This was the cartoon area

This was entrance to the Harry Potter Land

The size of the buildings was amazing. 

Hogwarts

Inside Hogwarts, you walk through the castle while waiting to get on the actual ride

The talking portraits of Hogwarts

Aladdin's eastern land - we went to see a live Aladdin Show which was lots of fun

Wolverine and the kiddos

The Spiderman ride was a bit scary for the little one, even though she's a big Spiderman fan. (Don't ask!)

Dr. Seuss Land was very cute

Upon leaving...

 

Universal Studios

During our winter break in Orlando, Florida, we went to three theme parks. The first day was spent at Universal Studios. I had never been there before and had heard some mixed reviews. However, it was a lot of fun, for both adults and kids. Compared to the Disney theme parks, the lines wer much shorter, and the waiting time was designed to entertain you so the waits did not seem that long. Most of the rides were 3D simulation rides, which I actually really liked, since I am not much for the roller coasters anymore...

Entrance to the Universal Studios theme park

The "movie sets" were cool - this one was New York, the Public Library.  

There was a Mardi Gras parade at night, complete with floats and throwing the beads. 

The transformers ride was a big hit the man of the house.. 

I liked the Disaster "movie production" where you took part in making the movie

You can also audition for a live Fear Factor show...

Fear Factor competitors drinking a smoothie made out of all kinds of gross stuff...
they also had to complete pretty difficult tasks being suspended from the ceiling on wires, etc. 

The park was beautifully made!

My artsy shots...

Lots of food options both inside the theme park, as well as right outside...

All in all, if you're going to Orlando, I would definitely recommend visiting the Universal Studios. You don't have to be a big movie buff to enjoy it.