Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure: Best Value Around?

Maple Leaf Visitors Center and www.mapleleaftickets.com is a family owned and operated discount ticket agency located in Kissimmee, Florida and recently mentioned the premier publication Travel Magazine. Since opening our doors over 32 years ago, we have seen a lot of change in the area. Most importantly, Universal Studios Orlando has really stepped up its game and has been offering a great family entertainment value of any major theme park in the area. Although Disney is in a league of its own, Universal has slowly made its way to being a premier tourist destination, offering some of the best state of the art rides and roller coasters around. What also sets Universal apart from the rest of the pack is the entertainment value families get with their money.

Islands of Adventure is one of my favorite parks to visit. It has something for everyone both young and old. Islands of Adventure opened its gates at the end of May, 1999. What I love about this park is that it has roller coasters and incredible movie themed rides. It also has a huge section dedicated for kids. So there is definitely something for everyone. My favorite coaster in the park is the Incredible Hulk. I won’t spoil the surprise that happens in the beginning, but it definitely wakes you up with a jolt. Another great thing about the park is how well it’s laid out. I like to walk in, start the day off with the Incredible Hulk Coaster and walk around the park doing all the rides. By the time you’re done, you’re already walking towards the exit so no back tracking, which is a plus.

One of the biggest draws to the park is of course Islands of Adventure ‘Hogsmead’. Although, I’m not a fan of the movie or books, you don’t have to be to experience this section of the park or the rides. They have a great smaller family coaster called the Flight of the Hippogriff. It’s definitely just the right size to cater to the younger kids in the family. Of course the main draw is the Harry Potter and the Forbidden journey ride. It is awesome and a must see. Even if you’re not familiar with the story or the characters it’s still one of the most fun rides to do. If you’re with a smaller group and don’t mind being separated. I highly recommend the single riders line which can save you a lot of time.

Since you really don’t interact with your friends or family on the ride, the single riders line is the way to go…especially on days where wait times can run up to 60+ minutes. Islands of Adventure keeps my family and I coming back on a fairly regular basis because it just never seems to get old. It’s a great place to just take your time and enjoy one ride at a time.