Islands of Adventure is the newer of Universal's two theme
parks, and by far it has proven to be a succesful entry.
With an estimated 5.5 Million visitors in 2001 (less than
the 7.2 Million estimated to have visited Universal Studios
during the same period), Islands has done it's job in drawing
more visitors to the revamped destination.
In our opinion, Islands is the better of Universal's
two theme parks,offering a greater depth of theming and
attractions, and in general, a much better day of fun.
Islands of Adventure is divided into 6 primary areas,
all of which circle a lagoon in the center of the park.
On a typical day, if you arrive early enough, you can
hit all the major attractions in less than 1 day. Of course,
during busier periods (weekends and summer in specific),
that is much tougher to do, and in any case, that pace
will not allow you to really soak up the atmosphere and
some of the side attractions that really give Islands
of Adventure it's charm. We provide these TOURING TIPS
for your consideration when visiting Islands of Adventure.
Tip #1: Especially
if you have kids, BRING SUN BLOCK. Suess Landing
is comprised of bright, iridescent colors. Colors
that do a good job of reflecting sunlight. As a
result, you could get a lot more sun than you bargained
for at Suess Landing. If you have kids, you will
want to make sure you bring plenty of sun block.
Tip #2: The rides that
look to be the 'big draws' are Spiderman and Incredible
Hulk Coaster (Marvel Super Hero Island), Dueling Dragons
(Lost Continent), and Jurassic Park River Adventure (Jurassic
Park). Expect these attractions to fill up quickly.
Tip #3: Islands of Adventure
is a very WET park. On most rides you will experience
some kind of water. On rides like Jurassic Park
River Adventure you may get somewhat wet. On Popeye
and Bluto's Bilge Rat Barges, however, you will get SOAKED,
same is true for rides like Dudley Do-Right's Ripsaw Falls.
Be sure to wear clothing that will be comfortable when
wet, or at least bring a change of clothing with you.
Tip #4: For a very good,
sit down meal, be sure to try Confisco Grille at the Port
of Entry. On your way into the park, stop by and
make priority seating arrangements for dinner. The
food is first rate (on par with MGM's Brown Derby) and
the prices are excellent (dinner for 2 including appetizers
and dessert cost us $45 before tip). For lunch,
consider Thunder Falls Terrace in Jurassic Park.
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