UNIVERSAL ORLANDO – WHERE MOVIES COME TO LIFE
Orlando is the place where childhood dreams come true. Most families immediately think of Disney World when they plan a trip to Florida, and of course Disney is pure magic. But just around the corner you’ll find another world of adventure: Universal Orlando Resort.
Universal feels different. A little cooler, a little more adventurous and with a healthy dose of Hollywood magic. Here you don’t just watch your favourite movies… you step right into them. From wandering through the streets of the wizarding world of Harry Potter to meeting dinosaurs and superheroes, Universal is a place where the whole family becomes part of the story.
For families with older kids and teenagers, Universal is often the highlight of an Orlando trip. But even younger children will love the colourful worlds, shows, characters and the feeling that every corner has a surprise waiting.
Getting to Universal Orlando
Universal Orlando is located in the heart of Orlando, Florida, about a 20-minute drive from Orlando International Airport.
Flying from the Netherlands, you can easily combine Universal with a bigger Florida road trip. Many families start in Orlando and continue towards the beaches of Florida, the Keys or even a Caribbean cruise from Miami.
From Disney World, Universal is also easy to reach by car or taxi, making it possible to combine both worlds during one holiday.
The Universal Orlando parks
Universal Orlando Resort consists of several parks and entertainment areas. The classic Universal experience revolves around:
- Universal Studios Florida
- Universal Islands of Adventure
- Universal Volcano Bay water park
- Universal CityWalk for restaurants, shopping and entertainment
For families visiting for the first time, we would recommend spending at least two days here. That way you don’t have to rush from attraction to attraction, but can actually enjoy the atmosphere.
Because let’s be honest… sometimes the best memories are not made while waiting in line for the next ride, but while drinking a giant colourful drink, exploring a themed street or watching your kids completely disappear into another world.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – pure magic
Even if you are not a huge Harry Potter fan, this part of Universal is simply incredible.
Walking into Diagon Alley feels like stepping into the movies. The details are amazing: the buildings, the shops, the sounds and even the smallest magical touches.
Older kids will especially love exploring the wizarding world, trying interactive wands and travelling between the two Harry Potter areas with the Hogwarts Express (with a park-to-park ticket).
Our tip? Don’t rush through this area. Take your time. Look around. Step into the shops. Order a Butterbeer. These are the moments your kids will remember.
Highlights at Universal Orlando with kids
Universal is famous for its thrilling attractions, but you definitely don’t need to be a rollercoaster fan to enjoy the parks.
🦖 Jurassic Park area
Walk among dinosaurs, explore the jungle atmosphere and imagine what it would be like if these prehistoric giants really came back to life.
🦸 Superhero adventures
Marvel fans will love stepping into the world of superheroes, with exciting attractions and plenty of photo opportunities.
🎬 Movie magic at Universal Studios
From famous movie locations to spectacular shows, this park feels like walking through a giant film set.
🌴 Volcano Bay
Need a break from the Florida heat? Universal’s tropical water park is the perfect place to slow down for a day. With sandy beaches, a huge volcano as the centrepiece and both relaxing and adventurous water attractions, it’s a great addition to your Orlando itinerary.
Our tips for visiting Universal Orlando with kids
Don’t try to do everything
This is probably our biggest Travelicious tip.
Universal is not about racing from one attraction to another. It’s about the experience. Choose your favourites, leave room for spontaneous moments and remember that Florida heat can be intense.
A slower day often becomes the best day.
Stay hydrated and plan breaks
Florida sunshine combined with walking all day can be exhausting, especially for children.
Take breaks, enjoy a cold drink and consider going back to your hotel for a swim in the afternoon if you are staying nearby. Orlando holidays are a marathon, not a sprint.
Consider staying at a Universal hotel
Staying at a Universal Resort hotel can make your visit much easier. You are close to the parks, can enjoy resort facilities and some hotels offer extra benefits such as early park access or Express Pass benefits depending on the hotel category.
It’s especially convenient when travelling with kids because you can escape the crowds and heat whenever you need a little break.
Buy your tickets before you go
Universal tickets are often cheaper when booked in advance. If you are visiting multiple parks, look carefully at park-to-park options, especially if travelling with Harry Potter fans because the Hogwarts Express connects the two Harry Potter areas.
For tickets, tours and experiences we usually recommend comparing options before you travel:
👉 Book your Universal Orlando tickets here
Universal or Disney World?
The question every family asks: should we choose Disney or Universal?
Our answer: why choose?
They are completely different experiences.
✨ Disney is about fairy tales, princesses, nostalgia and childhood dreams.Want to know more
🎬 Universal is about movies, adventure, action and a little more excitement.
For families with teenagers, Universal often becomes a favourite. For younger children, Disney may still have the biggest wow factor. But combining both gives you the ultimate Orlando experience.
Where to stay in Orlando
You have plenty of options in Orlando:
- Stay close to Universal for convenience
- Choose International Drive for restaurants and more budget-friendly hotels
- Combine a Disney stay with a Universal day trip
For families, we love having a hotel with a pool. After a day full of excitement, jumping into the water is sometimes the best attraction of the day.
👉 Find family-friendly Orlando hotels here
Final Travelicious thoughts
Universal Orlando is one of those places where you can see your children’s imagination come alive.
Whether they are casting spells in Harry Potter’s world, searching for dinosaurs or simply walking through streets that look like they belong in a movie, Universal creates those unforgettable holiday moments.
Our advice? Don’t treat it like a checklist. Slow down, enjoy the details and let yourself be part of the adventure.
Because that’s what family travel is all about.
✨ Making memories together.
