Universal Orlando Resort (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Universal Orlando Resort?
What makes it 95% Kids-Friendly: Seuss Landing, DreamWorks play zones, Child Swap, and many 5-12 friendly shows make the resort a near-ideal full-day destination for children.
Positives:
- Family services: Baby Care Centers, stroller rentals, and Child Swap make visiting easier with young kids.
- Interactive play zones: Play areas like Curious George and Camp Jurassic offer breaks and free entertainment.
Challenges:
- Long wait times: Popular rides often exceed 60-minute queues, especially in peak season.
- High costs: Park tickets, food, and extras like lockers add up quickly for a family of four.
What is Universal Orlando Resort?
- A resort complex in Orlando that comprises multiple theme parks—Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and the Volcano Bay water park
- A themed entertainment destination centered on Universal Pictures and pop culture franchises, with rides, live shows, and interactive attractions
- A campus that integrates on-site hotels, dining venues, and retail districts within cinematic environments
What is so special about Universal Orlando Resort for with kids?
- Magical rides like Hogwarts Express unite both parks.
- Gentle attractions and play zones for ages 3–12.
- Child Swap and Baby Care Centers ease family logistics.
- Volcano Bay adds water fun and virtual queuing.
- Early arrival and express options reduce wait times.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 days
Why 2-3 days visit duration is ideal for with kids: Gives families time to explore both parks and Volcano Bay without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Universal Orlando Resort
Ride the Hogwarts Express:
Travel between Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure on a themed train experience.
Tip: Use your 2-park ticket to board at King's Cross and Hogsmeade Station early to avoid lines.
Explore Seuss Landing:
Enjoy kid-friendly rides like Caro-Seuss-el and The Cat in the Hat in a Dr. Seuss universe.
Tip: Visit during morning hours when lines are shorter and use shaded seating areas for breaks.
Experience DreamWorks Trolls Trollercoaster:
Junior coaster in DreamWorks Land perfect for younger children.
Tip: Ride with your 3-year-old using Child Swap for the adult coaster seat if needed.
Take E.T. Adventure:
Gentle dark ride where kids help E.T. return home on suspended bikes.
Tip: Board near park opening to enjoy this classic with minimal wait.
Cool off at Volcano Bay:
Water park with wave pools, lazy river, and kid-friendly slides.
Tip: Reserve lockers and use TapuTapu bands to hold your place in virtual lines.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Universal Orlando Resort
- Arrive early: Start at park opening to hit top attractions with shorter waits.
- Use virtual lines: TapuTapu at Volcano Bay and Express Pass for rides help avoid standby queues.
- Pack snacks and water: Bring refillable bottles and small snacks to stay hydrated and save on park prices.
Reviews of Universal Orlando Resort
alex capogrosso
Visited in July 2025 and had a fantastic time. Visited Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Epic Universe, and enjoyed all three parks. We stayed onsite at the Stella Nova (see separate review) and ate at several in-park restaurants (also reviewed). As an avid Harry Potter fan, each area of the park has attractions from Wizarding World. The other rides are just as fun.
KaLyn
* highly recommend downloading the universal app as the wait times and map are easy to navigate and great information to have on hand* ** I would also recommend purchasing lightning tickets for at least one day or if there is a credit card sign up where you get lightning tickets if you were preapproved would recommend doing that as well** We had a blast going to every ride. Every staff member we...
Miranda Beebe
Epic universe was the favorite park for my group and I. We loved the large roller coasters, and many of the experiences. The Untrainable Dragon is a really cool show for all ages; our group of 5 adults enjoyed watching it. I was thrilled to find delicious and different vegan options easily at all three parks, thank you! The staff at the parks was also extremely helpful at directing me towards othe...
delaine urdaneta
⭐ Universal Parks are a must-visit for anyone craving immersive adventures and high-energy fun. Each park offers unique experiences, from cinematic nostalgia to futuristic innovation, making them stand out among global theme parks. If you’re planning a trip, prioritize Islands of Adventure for thrills and Universal Studios for storytelling magic, while keeping Epic for New...
Leo M
A Timeless Favorite — Universal Studios Orlando I’ve been visiting Universal Studios Orlando since 2006, and somehow I love it more every single time I go. The park has an amazing blend of nostalgia and excitement — from timeless classics like the E.T. Adventure to the incredible rides in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Universal has a way of making every visit feel special. The atmosphere,...
When is the best time to visit Universal Orlando Resort (Orlando, United States)?
Summer brings high heat and afternoon storms; pack ponchos and refillable water bottles. Winter offers milder weather and festive holiday decorations November–January.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| One-day 2-park tickets (4) | USD 661.72 |
| Volcano Bay tickets (4) | USD 320 |
| Meals & snacks | USD 140 |
| Total Estimated | USD 1,121.72 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Universal Orlando Resort
Address: 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819, USA
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