Universal Studios Orlando

Universal Studios and Universal Islands of Adventure are, in fact, two separate parks but I have to pair them together because of the Harry Potter Hogsmeade train that you only get to ride if you purchase the Park-To-Park pass. Both parks have a Harry Potter World, and whether you are a Harry Potter fan or not, your mind will be blown at both locations. That is not to say that you can complete both parks in one day. Kyleigh and I did a pretty good job knocking out our must-sees on the first day but that second day was really good for the ones we skipped, only to find them to be amazing after all, AND to repeat rides. As high in demand as Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure was and given that they don't accept the Express Unlimited Pass for that ride, Kyleigh and I still made it on FIVE TIMES! Each time was well worth it!!

I would not call my self a roller coaster lover, which is one of the reasons Universal Studios is more up my alley. Sure there are some roller coasters on site but for the most part, it is simulations. Universal Studios does a fantastic job making you feel like you were immersed in an adventure when you really didn't go too far.

Universal Hotels

There are many times where a hotel is just a place to lay your head but when traveling to Universal Orlando, staying on property will make all the difference for your time and your money. With four different hotel categories, you can find a hotel that will work perfect for your family. All Universal Orlando hotels guests get exclusive EARLY PARK ADMISSION. Universal Orlando guests staying at one of the Premier hotels also enjoy the Express Unlimited Passes which you will want to purchase anyway.

Value Hotels $

Surfside Inn & Suites

Dockside Inn & Suites

Transportation to Parks:

-Shuttle Bus

Prime Value Hotel $$

-Universal's Cabana Bay

-Universal's Adventura

Transportation to Parks:

-Shuttle Bus

-Walking Path

Preferred Hotel $$$

-Loews Sapphire Falls

Transportation to Parks:

-Water Taxi

-Shuttle Bus

-Walking Paths

Universal City Walk

You can't miss the City Walk on your way to Universal Studios or Universal Islands of Adventure. You literally walk right through it. It is free to enter and they have a number of shops and restaurants that you will want to be at so plan your time accordingly. My favorite: Toothsome Chocolate Emporium. Their friendly staff is dressed in steampunk attire, which is so fun. Not only is the food delusions, but they have the best milkshakes!! After milkshakes, were were able to pick up some souvenirs and cool off along the walking paths before heading back to the hotel for a dip in the pool.

Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Truth be told, the main reason we jumped on an airplane was to see The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. It did not disappoint! Our Express Unlimited Passes got us through the lines quickly on Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, Flight of the Hippogriff, Hogwarts Express, and Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts. Only Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure did not accept the Express Unlimited Pass. Even still, the wait for Hagrid's ride was entertaining as we weaved through various rooms within the ruins where Hagrid keeps his belongings.