It is summertime in Orlando, and that means that the theme parks are hot spots for vacationing families and tourists on summer break. It is still possible to get so much done at Universal Orlando and have a wonderful time! However, if you are anything like me and try to avoid standing in long lines, I have a few tips to share with you to have the best day at Universal’s Islands of Adventure. I like to break up the long lines and seek out some much-needed A/C whenever possible. There is so much to discover and do at Universal Orlando and I think it is so important to have list of your must do’s before you even step foot into the park.
Without further ado, here are 5 secrets for a busy day at Islands of Adventure:
#1 Take a Spin on The Cat and the Hat
The Cat in the Hat is located close to the entrance of the park in Seuss Landing. This tops my list because you get some wonderful air conditioning, and I have never seen this ride have a long line. Usually, the wait time clocks in at 5 minutes on their clocks which essentially means as quick as you can walk to the boarding area. Guests must be at least 36 inches tall for this attraction, but it is very family friendly and a wonderful quick escape from the hustle and bustle outside.
#2 Go on an (air-conditioned) Adventure at Poseidon’s Fury
I think Poseidon’s Fury is a hidden gem at Universal Orlando. You will most likely have to wait a little bit for the next show to begin. I believe they run about every 30 minutes or so, unless you are lucky enough to hit it just right! Luckily, the queue air conditioned and I think the adventure is well worth the wait. This is not a ride, it is a show, but you are in for a treat! If you have not checked out Poseidon’s Fury yet, you should definitely add it to your list.
#3 Have a Chat with the Mystic Fountain
The Mystic Fountain is located a little past Poseidon’s Fury and right before you enter into Hogsmeade. I cannot guarantee that the mystic fountain won’t be sleeping when you visit, but if they are awake, you are in for a wonderful time! Enjoy chatting with the Mystic Fountain and be ready to laugh (and possibly get wet). There is never a dull moment when anyone is chatting with the Mystic Fountain.
#4 Window Shop in Hogsmeade at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
It is just like window shopping in real life, except you likely have not seen any of this stuff in real life. When you are tired of waiting in lines, I invite you to take a stroll around Hogsmeade and enjoy some window shopping. Also, take the time to stop into the stores that are open and explore all the merchandise for sale. Even if you are not planning on buying anything, there are some wonderful easter eggs located throughout. You can also purchase an interactive wand and interact with many of the store windows!
#5 Tour the Jurassic Park Discovery Center
Next up we have the Jurassic Park Discovery Center. It is located near VelociCoaster and there is so much to explore in here. First off, it includes some wonderful A/C and also many places to have a seat and relax. You can also explore numerous exhibits including a nursery where you can examine eggs and even witness one hatch at certain times of the day. There are models of dinosaurs, a DNA sequencing activity, a gameshow activity and so much more. You can also browse merchandise from VelociCoaster and step outside to get an amazing view of the coaster flying by. Additionally, there is a quick service restaurant and additional gift shop located on the first floor. This would also be a great place to take some cover from the Florida thunderstorms as there is plenty to explore indoors.
These are just a few of the things you can do at Universal Orlando’s Islands of Adventure when you are trying to avoid some of the crowds on a busy day. All of these places are great things to insert throughout your day to take a break from the heat, people or lines. What other things are on your list on busy days? Let me know in the comments! Thanks for reading and happy travels!