Universal/ IOA in a Day


Kid-Friendly Universal Orlando Plan

Hey Gina, here is my take on a fun, flexible itinerary designed your family visiting Universal Orlando with a preference for gentle rides. Below is a step-by-step outline to help you make the most of your day, with suggested afternoon “skip” points if you need a break, plus recommended CityWalk dining options.

MORNING: Universal Studios Florida

Despicable Me Minion Mayhem

  • Arrive at park opening to beat the rush.
  • Go on a kid-friendly 3D adventure with Gru and the Minions.
  • Note: Stationary seating is available if you prefer less motion.

Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast

  • Next door to Minion Mayhem.
  • Grab a blaster and move along a conveyor belt shooting targets.
  • No height requirement; a fun, interactive way to compete as a family.

Knight Bus & London Waterfront

  • Snap photos with the Knight Bus conductor and talking shrunken head.
  • Enjoy the thematic London street facade before diving into more attractions.

(Optional) The Bourne Stuntacular

  • High-tech live stunt show with action sequences.
  • Advisory: Loud noises and simulated gunfire—feel free to skip if Charlie is sensitive or you want to save time.

DreamWorks Land

  • Explore this new area near KidZone with interactive play zones.
  • Meet characters from Trolls, Kung Fu Panda, Madagascar, and more—great for quick photos and fun interactions.

E.T. Adventure

  • Classic dark ride: board bicycles to help E.T. save his home planet.
  • Gentle, nostalgic experience for all ages.

Lunch at Illumination’s Minion Café

  • A whimsical, Minion-themed quick-service restaurant.
  • Kid-friendly food options and playful decor make it a hit with Charlie.

Diagon Alley Exploration (Wizarding World of Harry Potter)

  • Ollivanders Wand Experience: Let Charlie possibly be “chosen” by a wand.
  • Check out Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes, Quality Quidditch Supplies, and Knockturn Alley for a spooky-cool atmosphere at Borgin & Burkes.
  • Skip Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts if Charlie dislikes coaster-style thrills.

Hogwarts Express (King’s Cross Station)

  • Board the train to travel to Islands of Adventure in an immersive, story-driven journey.
  • Tip: You need a Park-to-Park ticket.

AFTERNOON: Islands of Adventure

Hogsmeade Village

  • Wander through the snowy wizarding streets under Hogwarts Castle.
  • Optional Rides:
  • Watch for the Frog Choir or Triwizard Spirit Rally for short musical shows.

Jurassic Park Discovery Center & Camp Jurassic

  • Hands-on dinosaur exhibits inside the Discovery Center.
  • Camp Jurassic playground features rope bridges, caves, and water cannons—perfect for letting Charlie explore.
  • Skip River Adventure and VelociCoaster if avoiding large drops/thrills.

(Feeling Tired?) Go to Seuss Landing Early

  • If energy is fading, skip Toon Lagoon (water rides) and Marvel Super Hero Island (thrill rides).
  • Head directly to Seuss Landing, which has gentle, imaginative attractions.

Toon Lagoon – Me Ship, The Olive (If You Have Time & Energy)

  • A fun playground aboard Popeye’s ship.
  • Skip the water rides if you don’t want to get drenched.

Marvel Super Hero Island (Optional)

  • Primarily thrill rides, but you can meet characters like Spider-Man or Captain America on the streets.
  • Great for quick photo ops if Charlie enjoys superheroes.

Seuss Landing

  • Cat in the Hat – gentle, whimsical dark ride with some mild spinning.
  • One Fish, Two Fish – kids control the ride vehicle’s up/down motion to avoid water sprays.
  • Caro-Seuss-el – playful, interactive carousel with Dr. Seuss creatures.
  • High in the Sky Seuss Trolley Train – overhead train tour offering lovely park views.
  • Look for Seuss characters wandering around or catch a short stage show.

EVENING / CITYWALK DINING OPTIONS

If you want a nighttime Hogwarts Express ride back to Diagon Alley, this is a beautiful way to see the Wizarding World after dark.

Alternatively, exit the parks and enjoy dinner at Universal CityWalk:

Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen

  • Steampunk-style restaurant known for its over-the-top milkshakes and playful desserts.
  • Whimsical setting with “mad scientist” theming—kids love it.
  • Food is decent (burgers, pasta, flatbreads), but the real draw is the sweets.
  • Reservations recommended. Let me know if you’d like help with that!

Vivo Italian Kitchen

  • Excellent choice for freshly made Italian pasta, pizzas, and entrees.
  • Typically more reliably tasty if you’re craving authentic Italian flavors.
  • Reservations recommended. Happy to assist if you need them.

For a more casual bite, CityWalk also offers many grab-and-go spots like BreadBox or even quick dessert stops like Voodoo Doughnut.

After dinner, you can browse CityWalk’s shops, catch some live music, or simply call it a night and get ready for more theme park fun the next day!

If you have any questions or need help with reservations, feel free to reach out!

Text/ Call: 475-238-0684