I have been to both Walt Disney World and Universal Studios Florida multiple times, and each one has its perks, but overall, I think Universal Studios wins for best theme park. Disney World is a wonderful place if you want to feel like a kid again, but Universal Studios offers a more mature experience. Disney is huge and tons of fun, but often leaves you overwhelmed and feeling like you need a vacation from your vacation. Universal offers just the right amount of attractions, awesome hotels and a great nightlife. Here's why I think Universal Studios is actually the happiest place on earth.
The Parks
On one side is Universal's Islands of Adventure, and you sure will find adventure here. This park offers something for everyone. For the superhero fans, you have the Marvel Comics area, which includes a thrilling Incredible Hulk Coaster, Doctor Doom's Freefall and The 3D Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man ride which puts you right in the action as Spider-Man saves New York City. Throughout the day you will see the superheros and villains running around scaring visitors and stopping for pictures. This park also includes a Jurassic Park, Popeye and Dr. Seuss section, bringing your favorite stories, myths, comic books and movies to life.
On the other side is Universal Studios Florida. In this park, there are many thrillers to keep you entertained all day. As soon as you enter the gates, you will see the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit. This is a roller coaster like no other. On this coaster you get to rock out to a song of your choice, while climbing straight up its 17-story drop. It also video tapes your ride and you have the option to watch and buy it after you get off. This park also has Revenge of the Mummy, an indoor coaster, equally as thrilling. You also can battle along side the Transformers in their 3D ride as they protect the planet. If you are a Simpsons fan, you will love the Springfield neighborhood. Here there is a 3D ride, along with iconic foods from the show. This park also has a multiple shows that will keep you cooled down and entertained.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
Although this is not a separate park of its own, it sure does feel like it. In Islands of Adventure there is Hogsmeade. Here you get to explore the village and live out your dream of receiving your letter and visiting Hogwarts. Inside Hogwarts you'll join Harry, Ron and Hermione in an interactive ride like no other. On the Universal Studios side, you can explore Diagon Alley and the Gringotts Bank. Inside the bank is a thrilling 3D ride where you get navigate through the vaults as Harry, Hermione and Ron try to escape. In both Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley, you'll have the opportunity to taste iconic foods from the book and movies including Butterbeer and Pumpkin Juice. You can also eat at Three Broomsticks and stock up on chocolate frogs from Honeydukes. The Hogwarts Express also allows you to travel between both Hogsmeade and London which is an experience like no other. Before you leave this area, make sure to stop by Ollivanders to get your wand and your other wizard supplies.
The On-Site Hotels
The on-site hotels provide you with the opportunity to literally stay on site. These resorts allow you to walk or take a short boat ride to and from the parks. Being this close allows you to sleep in and skip the crowds in the parking lots. Since they are so close, it's easy to come back and hop in their pools to cool off and then go back to the parks when the sun goes down. Also, staying in on one of Universal Studios' hotels allows you to skip all the lines with their Express Pass and offers you many other exclusive park benefits. Staying at one of their hotels really makes the whole experience even more enjoyable.
The CityWalk
In between the two parks is Universal's CityWalk. Here you can find multiple restaurants including Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. and the largest Hard Rock Cafe. There is shopping, live music and lots of nightlife. There is something here for everyone in the family, no matter what age. This is the perfect way to end your day and spend your evening.
The experience at Universal Studios is one of a kind and offers something for everyone. Sorry Disney, you're great, but Universal is better.
