11 Best Things to Do in Universal Orlando

While other theme parks around town tend to cater more towards certain age groups or tastes, Universal Islands of Adventure has got it all. There are live-action stunts to entertain the kids, while rollercoasters and themed rides tower overhead. Immersive simulators place you in the middle of your favourite movie, ideal for those who prefer their adrenaline fix to be a bit closer to the ground.

Opened in 1999, Islands of Adventure is made up of 8 different areas, including the amazing Wizarding World of Harry Potter, The Lost Continent, Jurassic Park and more. Don’t miss a chance to grab a selfie with Captain America or watch one of the spectacular shows. 

Universal Studios Florida draws in bumper crowds with its long line-up of Hollywood-inspired rides and attractions. Part of the wider Universal Orlando complex, the theme park focuses on delivering an immersive movie experience, with state-of-the-art technology used throughout the range of simulators. Be amazed at the majestic dragon guarding Gringotts Bank, explore space with E.T. and ride the Caterbus family-friendly coaster with your favourite Trolls characters.

If you time your visit right, you’ll get to enjoy magical seasonal events at Universal Studios, like colourful Mardi Gras parades and a party in Whoville with the Grinch himself. A handy thing to have is the park app, which lets you check times for parades, shows and current ride times.

Universal’s Volcano Bay water park is one of Orlando’s most recognizable attractions thanks to the 200-foot conical mountain which roars periodically and emits lava-esque fluid at night. This is Universal Studios’ first water park, and they have a nice mix of relaxing rides like a lazy river and wave pool together with more cutting-edge, high-speed rides like aqua coasters and 70-degree plunge slides.

Plenty of lockers are available and you can prepay credit onto a wristband, so you’re able to buy snacks and drinks throughout the day without needing to carry cash.

Icon Park is a popular entertainment plaza on International Drive. This plaza is home to Madame Tussauds Orlando, SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium and the incredible 7-D Motion Theater. Ride the Orlando Wheel, a famous 400-foot observation wheel that offers a breath-taking panoramic view of the city, and the charming, hand-crafted Carousel on the Promenade.

Dining options range from casual fast food like Buffalo Wild Wings to cozy restaurants like Evoo Fresh Mediterranean Kitchen. Date nights will be even more memorable at Icon Park’s bars, especially with many happy hour deals. To save even more money, you can purchase package tickets for the biggest attractions.

The Blue Man Group is a comedy, theatre, rock concert and dance party combined. Enjoy an outrageous and sensory show from this worldwide group of talented performers at the specially built venue in ICON Park.

Featuring an upbeat trio of multi-instrumentalists, the Blue Man Show in Orlando has several episodes of audience participation and appeals to pretty much all ages. These shows offer something exclusive to Orlando that you won’t see at other Blue Man Group shows, creating a truly immersive experience.

Madame Tussauds Wax Museum Orlando has 6 sections dedicated to famous celebrities, sports stars and historical figures for you to pose with and photograph. The wax sculptures are stunningly lifelike, so you can get up-close and personal with Albert Einstein, The President of the United States, Michael Jackson, Angelina Jolie and so many more.

Once you’ve lifted a helicopter with Superman, slam dunked with Shaquille O’Neal and starred in Taylor Swift’s latest music video, why not visit the some of the other incredible attractions at Icon Park? Combo tickets are available so you can save money on entrance fees.

The Universal Orlando CityWalk is a dynamic and bustling dining, shopping and entertainment complex. It’s located just before the entrance of Universal Orlando Resort and access to the whole area is completely free.

Kids will love the number of exciting, themed restaurants to enjoy their evening meal at, including Bigfire, an innovative campfire cooking restaurant, and the world’s largest Hard Rock Café. When it comes to entertainment, karaoke at Rising Star will never disappoint, while thrill-seekers should head to the Great Movie Escape to immerse themselves in Jurassic Park. Hot tip: if you don’t like the idea of carrying souvenirs around the theme parks, purchase one from the Universal Studio Store at CityWalk instead.