Fun Things at Universal Orlando to Spark Joy

Step into the magic of Universal, where every moment is brimming with wonder and excitement! Whether fulfilling your wizarding destiny or seeking a snippet of stardom, these fun things at Universal Orlando Resort are perfect for your electrifying adventure.

Instagram-Worthy Character Greetings

Imagine the gleeful smiles as you pose next to some iconic figures from Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios. Whether it’s Dora the Explorer leading you on a new quest or Spiderman swinging in for a snapshot, these meet-and-greets are heartwarming chapters you’ll want to reminisce about again and again.

Thrilling Rides for the Whole Family

Thrill-seekers in the crew, step right up! Dare to face the straight-down drop of the Revenge of the Mummy‘s ancient curses or take a wild simulator ride on TRANSFORMERS: The Ride 3-D. These escapades promise a roller coaster of exhilaration!

For the bravest of the brave, the VelociCoaster in Jurassic World awaits, promising unrivaled thrills. Zoom at high speeds, with heart and pulse racing, dodging the fierce velociraptors that chase you down – all within a breathtaking prehistoric setting.

For a voyage into the unexpected, climb aboard Skull Island: Reign of Kong. Don your 3D glasses for a jaunt through a land of giants and marvel at the mystery – friend or foe, you decide when you meet the mighty King Kong.

Brace yourselves for the roar of the Incredible Hulk Coaster, a lightning-fast flight with loops and swoops that will have your adrenaline pumping at superhuman speeds. It’s an epic challenge you’ll want to conquer again and again.

Just note that junior riders must be 54 inches tall to board this beast, my favorite thrill ride at the Universal Orlando Resort property.

*Some attractions may include intense features such as pyrotechnics or simulated gunfire.

Want more things to see and do in Orlando? We’ve got suggestions in this post: Exciting Weekend Guide to Orlando (Minus the Theme Parks)

Potterheads Bucket List

Calling all Potter fans! The Wizarding World of Harry Potter remains an enchanting sanctuary, casting its spell over everyone who visits. Feel the rush as a dragon breathes fire in Diagon Alley or stroke the dusty spines of magic wand boxes in Ollivanders. 

Step into the spellbinding world of Hogsmeade at Islands of Adventure and ride the enchanting Hagrid’s Magical Motorbike Adventure, one of the most fun rides at Universal.

Discover the latest wizard fashion at Madam Malkin’s, then indulge in the sweetest of treats at Sugarplum’s. And don’t miss the Escape from Gringotts for a heart-pounding ride or the mystery of strolling through Platform 9 ¾.

Indulge in a famous Butterbeer, cold or frozen, and a must when visiting the Wizarding World, and savor British pub favorites at Three Broomsticks.

Tip: Travel between King’s Cross Station (Universal Studios) and Hogsmeade (Islands of Adventure) aboard the Hogwarts Express. Dual park admission is required.

Fun For All Ages

Experience Universal Studios Florida’s tribute to the movies with an array of thrilling attractions and family-friendly entertainment, such as Woody Woodpecker’s Nuthouse Coaster, a whirlwind of fun, KidZone, and then shake a leg to the rhythm-and-blues charm of the Blues Brothers Show.

Join Gru and his lovable Minions on Despicable Me Minion Mayhem for an experience that mingles the heart-pounding fun of a simulator with the enchantment of 3D/4D animation. It’s a riot!

In the nooks and crannies of The Lost Continent, a hidden gem sparkles with mischief – the Mystic Fountain. Get ready for bouts of laughter as this sassy fountain playfully sprays water your way.

For teenagers searching for that surge of adrenaline, Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls is the ticket to joyous escapades and a splashy showdown with that climactic 75-foot drop. Don’t forget a spare set of clothes—you’ll emerge from this venture drenched!

Treasure seekers unite at the Universal Legacy Store, a trove of exclusive memorabilia and magical collectibles. While it might be sunny outside, Universal’s Port of Entry Christmas Shoppe allows the spirit of the holidays to twinkle all year round.

Marvel Mayhem

Marvel Super Hero Island is easily one of the most popular and fun lands at Islands of Adventure, Universal Orlando. The area was built around the Marvel Comics superheroes—Wolverine, Spider-Man, Captain America, and Incredible Hulk.

It opened in 1999, but Marvel Comics’ popularity has gone through the roof since then, hence its continued relevance at the park.

Take advantage of the electrifying excitement of Marvel Super Hero Island by snagging photos with Wolverine, posing with the villains, and soaring with the greatest superpowered stars.

You’ll also have a chance to meet some superheroes and evil villains for photos. Rides include Incredible Hulk Coaster, Dr. Doom’s Fearfall, Storm Force Acceleration, and The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man. 

Indulge Your Taste Buds in the Adventures

Rise and shine for the VIP breakfast at Café La Bamba, where you can rub elbows with the stars of Go Diego Go, Dora the Explorer, SpongeBob SquarePants, and the Minions. The seven-hour experience includes priority entrance into a minimum of 10 attractions. 

Are you feeling regal? Mythos Restaurant is your palace, serving up dishes of lore amidst an oasis of flavor. The Chicken Hearts of Romaine Caesar salad is just the beginning of an Epicurean odyssey.

When your tummy starts talking around midday, Louie’s got you covered with delicious spaghetti and meatballs that’ll have you saying, “Mamma Mia!”

And when the day’s adventures have left you thirsty, unwind with a crafty libation at Backwater Bar—a toast to the stories yet to unfold and memories waiting at every corner of Universal Orlando Resort.

Extremely and Uniquely Universal

Prepare for a day packed with wild rides, laughter, and movie magic at Universal Orlando. It’s not just a trip—it’s a leap into a universe where every moment is an epic story waiting to unfold.

Springfield offers a dose of nostalgia with its tributes to The Simpsons, complete with iconic giant pink donuts! Whether you share or go solo on this indulgence, it’s as delicious as it is emblematic.

The excitement increases with Race Through New York, Starring Jimmy Fallon. It’s just like being in the audience of his live show! Be captivated and amused all at once, and keep an eye out for the ingeniously crafted details highlighting that unmistakable late-night humor.

Wander down Memory Lane at Toon Lagoon, where kiddos and grown-ups alike will enjoy the fun exploding off the comic strips. Snack on sweet ice cream delights at Cathy’s, munch on a sandwich at Blondie’s, and watch your little ones caper about Me Ship, The Olive, like seafaring explorers on the high seas.

You’ll get the best park views in Seuss Landing aboard the High in the Sky Seuss trolley train ride. It is like stepping into the pages of a storybook, with Seuss Landing unfolding beneath you in vibrant color.

Grab treats from Snookers and Snookers Sweet Candy Cookers.

Now, if your family dares, sneak a look at the spellbinding Horror Make-Up Show. Don’t jump too much when things go kaboom – it’s all part of the spooky fun!

Award-Winning Halloween Horror Nights

And speaking of creepy offerings, how about the epic Halloween Horror Nights? This has to be the best-haunted attraction or event in the country!

From 6:30 PM until the wee hours of the morning on select dates, the park becomes the setting of a creep-fest featuring around ten haunted houses, many centered around popular horror movies or series, with levels of scare factor.

There are also specialty foods, drinks, and shows during the horror nights. Scaredy cats, never fear —there are safe zones along the route.

A Stone’s Throw to World-Class Hotels

For that retro ’50s Florida vacation vibe, consider staying at Cabana Bay Beach Resort to bask in its nostalgic glory, complete with a lazy river, energetic bowling alley, and pathways leading to Volcano Bay. The Dial soap and vintage touches are guaranteed to make you smile.

Imagine a slice of paradise where luxury meets lush tropical vibes—that’s Loews Royal Pacific Resort. Indulge in gastronomic delights, from exotic eats to fresh sushi, and immerse yourself in their lagoon-style pool, a haven adorned with a sandy beach and tantalizing poolside libations.

Lounge in the tropical serenity of Loews Sapphire Falls Resort or get pampered in the luxurious tranquility of Loews Portofino Bay’s 13,000 sq. ft. Mandara Spa. Each experience, from Caribbean charm to blissful Balinese massage, is tailored to soothe your sense of adventure.

The sleek Aventura Hotel (blue skyscraper) casts its gaze over the Universal Orlando Resort, a modern haven where indulgence meets innovation without breaking the bank. There’s a Starbucks in the lobby, and the pool is an urban oasis.

Memorable Munchies at Citywalk

Are you craving a sweet treat or a hearty meal at Universal CityWalk? Meander into the other-worldly Toothsome Chocolate Emporium. With every bite of their heavenly Chocolate Almond bread swirled with salted caramel butter, smiles are guaranteed.

Don’t skip the heartier fare – the Totchos and Coffee & Chocolate Stout Buffalo Wings are pure delight, stamped with our YUM approval!

Remember to savor those awe-inspiring milkshakes that come in the cutest mason jars – they’re a marvel all on their own!

Step into VooDoo Doughnut for a taste sensation that goes beyond the ordinary. Dare to try the extraordinary Bacon Maple Bar, the color-popping Grape Ape, or the mischievously named Dirt Doughnut.

Now, for a taste sensation like no other, set a course for Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar. Culinary creativity abounds with cheeseburger sushi rolls and the legendary burger that leaves you saying, “Thank you, thank you very much.”

Capture the park’s memories (and breathtaking views) from high above as you dine.

Swing by Jimmy Buffet’s Lone Palm Airport for a laid-back island vibe. Tantalizing cocktails like Bahama Mama and JalaMango margarita ensure it’s always five o’clock.

Universal Studios Orlando: THE Family Vacation Spot

While the list of things to do at the Universal Orlando Resort is endless, you are guaranteed plenty of thrills, screams, laughs, smiles, gasps, and memories for the whole family at this beloved park.

For your information, the complex’s official name is Universal Orlando Resort, though it is mostly called Universal Orlando, Universal Studios, or simply “Universal.”

I was comped tickets for Universal Studios Orlando and attended as a guest of a conference and most recently, IPW, in Orlando. As always, reviews and opinions are 100% mine and unbiased.

Check out our other Orlando posts:

Discovery Cove: Orlando’s Best-Kept Secret

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