Great Family Adventures at Universal Studios Orlando

For years, Universal Studios Orlando played second favorite to its world-famous neighbor, Walt Disney World Resort. Today, the park is more popular than ever with exciting attractions and invigorating rides for kids and parents alike.

Universal Studios Orlando is comprised of two parks: Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. The original section is, of course, the place where state of the art attractions such as The Mummy, Fear Factor and Shrek 4-D can be found. Islands of Adventure, which is just a short walk from the original park, is filled with excitement for all ages, ranging from high thrills roller coasters to Dr. Seuss.

Filled with water soaking rides and super-hero coasters, Islands of Adventure is a fun place especially for little tots to enjoy rides with mom and dad. Packed with rides for kids and adults, the park features several 5 uniquely themed islands. Upcoming enhancements include a new Harry Potter themed area scheduled to open in 2009.

Guests who stay at any of the three hotels hosted by Universal will gain front of the line priority on all attractions at both theme parks. The Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Royal Pacific Resort and the Loews Portofino Bay Hotel are all part of Universal Studios Orlando and provide free water taxi shuttles to and from the park.

Everything guests need during their stay is available at either park or at the adjacent Universal CityWalk complex. CityWalk is an area where guests can find places to eat and shop and be entertained long after the theme parks close. Open from 11am to 2 am daily, CityWalk features novelty and souvenir shops, clothing stores and a surf shop.

Several quality restaurants can also be found at CityWalk, including Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., Jimmy Buffet Margaritaville and Emeril's Restaurant - to name a few. A variety of hopping nightclubs offer live music nightly and there are special event shows such as highly popular, Blue Man Group.

For more information on Universal Studios Orlando and to make reservations, go to www.OrlandoFunParks.com.