Universal Theme Park Orlando

About Universal Studios

This cinematic theme park occupies more than 100 acres in the heart of Orlando, Florida. While it may seem that central Florida is dominated by the Disney resort complex of parks, Universal Studios offers guests the unique experience of literally riding the movies they love, from classic favorites such as Jaws and E.T.: The Extra Terrestrial, to modern blockbusters like Men In Black and Shrek.

Visiting Universal Studios

A visit to a movie theater may involve no more than a couple of hours worth of entertainment and tasty snacks, but riding the movies at Universal Studios is a much more intense experience.

Rides

The rides at Universal Studios may not have loops and drops, but they use special effects in such masterful ways that guests can truly believe they are immersed in their favorite movies. Popular rides include:

• Shrek 4-D: This three dimensional movie is made into a full-scale ride by adding motion simulator seats that bring viewers along on Shrek and Princess Fiona’s wacky honeymoon. Stationary seats are also available for guests who may be sensitive to abrupt motion.
• Jaws: Riders on this aquatic attraction may need a bigger boat to hold its thrills as they survive an assault by the legendary 32-foot great white shark.
• Revenge of the Mummy: This roller coaster is powered by three sets of linear induction motors that speed guests through hieroglyphic-carved tombs and past rampaging fireballs at speeds up to 40 miles per hour.
• E.T. Adventure: Riders will mount their own flying bikes high above stunning scenes for this nostalgic trip with E.T. to his home world, where he will deliver a personalized greeting to every rider in his delicate, wistful way.
• Men In Black: Alien Attack: More than 100 different alien species are on the rampage in this futuristic ride, and riders are armed with laser guns to help save the world by fighting back.
• Earthquake: A quake measured at 8.3 on the Richter scale awaits riders on this detailed attraction, where they will survive a broken subway tunnel line, 65,000 gallons of rushing water, falling roadways, and out-of-control fires.

Shows

While every ride is a show in and of itself, the Universal theme park Orlando location also offers superb entertainment options for guests to enjoy. Throughout the park, details such as a Hollywood Walk of Fame and movie props are on display, and regular shows offer visitors a glimpse of Hollywood’s secrets and excitement. Horror makeup demonstrations, animal actor tricks, musical revues with popular characters such as the Blues Brother and Beetlejuice, and loving tributes to Hollywood legends such as Lucille Ball are all available.

For Kids

At first it may seem that this type of advanced special effects park would not appeal to youngsters, but Universal Studios offers several options just for kids in Woody Woodpecker’s KidZone. There is an interactive play area with wet and dry attractions modeled after the frenetic life of Curious George, a more vigorous play land with the popular Fievel character, a sing-a-long show with well-loved dinosaurs Barney and Baby Bop, and Woody Woodpecker’s Nuthouse Coaster for the whole family to enjoy. Children will also love meeting their favorite cartoon characters, such as Spongebob Squarepants, Shrek, and the Rugrats kids.

Dining

Movie snacks can be predictable -- popcorn, candy, nachos, and soda -- but there is nothing predictable about the food at Universal Studios. Just as the rides are more innovative and detailed than their on-screen inspiration, so too is the food more decadent and delicious than cinema snacks. Treats include pizza, pasta, salads, seafood, corned beef, cheesecake, ice cream, wraps, ribs, hot dogs, and many international selections. Guests interested in trying many dining options or who plan to take all their meals in the park may want to investigate the Meal Deal wristband that allows guests unlimited refreshments at select locations for one price -- $25 for adults and $14 for children.

More Universal Theme Park Orlando Information

Movie tickets are easy to buy but Universal Studios tickets are more flexible than the most innovative theater.

Tickets

Single day admission tickets start at $67 for adults and $56 for children. Full week passes for both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure are available for $80. Guests can also add the Express Plus Pass to their admission that gives them faster access to rides for $20 to $46, depending on the dates – passes are less expensive during slow periods. Exclusive private group rates are also available, and Florida residents can enjoy discounts on many Universal Studios ticket options.

Contact Information

For more information about the Universal theme park Orlando location, guests can visit the official website, call (407) 363-8000, or write:

Universal Studios Florida
1000 Universal Studios Plaza
Orlando, FL 32819