Islands of Adventure

Islands of Adventure is one of two theme parks at Universal Orlando; the other -- Universal Studios Florida-- is just a short walk away.

The two are linked by CityWalk, an entertainment zone with clubs, shops and restaurants such as NBA City or the NASCAR Cafe. Nearby are Universal's three hotels: the Portofino, Hard Rock Hotel, and Royal Pacific Resort. (Guests get front-of-the line ride access!) All are connected by walkways and by waterways with free water-taxis.

What's special about Islands of Adventure for families?

Islands of Adventure is made up of five "islands": Marvel SuperHero Island, Toon Lagoon, Jurassic Park, The Lost Continent, and Seuss Landing.

Little kids will love Seuss Landing, based on the books of Dr. Seuss. Cat in the Hat ride and One Fish Two Fish are highlights.

Also for young kids: Camp Jurassic is a giant play zone with slides, rope bridges, and water squirters. Nearby is Pteranadon Flyer: try this one first thing in the morning, as waits can be long.

Any kid at least 40" high will probably be clamboring to ride The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man, an exciting 3-D simulator thrill ride.

Islands of Adventure has three fun wet rides. Dudley Do-Right's Ripsaw Falls, in Toon Lagoon, is similar to Disney's Splash Mountain; you will get completely soaked. Popeye and Bluto's Bilge Rat Barges will soak you, too. The Jurassic Park ride finishes with a good chute drop.

Poseidon's Adventure, in the Lost Continent, is a fun attraction also, ending with a grand fire and water battle.

Last but definitely not least for Teens and 'tweens are Islands of Adventure's thrill coasters: The Incredible Hulk Coaster, and Dueling Dragons. Doctor Doom's Fearfall is popular too, yanking you 150 feet up, and then letting you drop.

Things to keep in mind about Islands of Adventure:

• there are three great ways to avoid line-ups
• if at all possible, stay at a Universal Orlando resort. You'll get nice digs plus the best front-of-the-line ride access. All three resorts have great "beach pools", and free water-taxi shuttles to the parks. Check the Universal Orlando site for deals.
• some rides have minimum height requirements, for kids-- see Height Restrictions at Orlando Trip Planner. For ex., kids 40" can ride Spiderman with an adult; you need 52" for The Hulk.
• buy dual-park passes for admission to Universal Studios Florida also

-continue to Top Tips for Visiting Islands of Adventure

-explore Universal Studios Florida theme park
-explore the Hard Rock Hotel Universal Orlando