Universal Studios vs. Islands of Adventure

A visit to Universal Orlando is a great option if you are planning a trip in Orlando, Florida. There are many things to consider when planning a trip at Universal. Firstly, do you want to spend the day at Universal Studios?

Their themes are the main difference between Universal Studios Studios and Islands of Adventure. Universal Studios focuses on television and movies, while Islands of Adventure focuses on superheroes and other magical creatures.

Both parks offer The Wizarding World of Harry Potter experiences, but the rides and experiences are different.

Before you pack your bags and head to Florida, here are some things to consider.

Differences between Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure

You might be wondering which parks are worth visiting if you’re thinking of taking a vacation soon. It all depends on the type of experience you are looking for and which rides you like. Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, two of the three Universal Orlando Resort amusement park options, are available.

The themes are what distinguish Islands of Adventure from Universal Studios. Universal Studios is centered around television shows and movies and many rides reflect this.

Islands of Adventure, on the other hand, features thrill rides and adventure, since the park is themed around heroes and magical creatures.

Universal Studios has Diagon Alley for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter while Islands of Adventure features Hogsmeade.

Each park has its own hours of operation. You can walk between the parks and purchase a park to-park ticket. This gives you access to both parks in one day.

Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure can be found between City Walk and the many dining and entertainment options.

Alternately, park-to-park ticket holders can take the Hogwarts Express train from Hogsmeade at Islands of Adventure to Diagon Alley at Universal Studios. Harry Potter fans will enjoy this fun experience.

What can you expect from Universal Studios

Universal Studios has 13 attractions and rides for both young and old. The top attractions and rides include:

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  Despicable me Minion Mayhem.
  

• 
  E.T. Adventure.
  

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  Harry Potter and The Escape from Gringotts
  

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  Race Through New York, featuring Jimmy Fallon.
  

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  Revenge of the Mummy.
  

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  The Simpsons Ride (pictured below).
  

What can you expect from Islands of Adventure

Islands of Adventure is a place where thrill-seekers are welcome. There are 19 attractions and rides at the park, including:

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  Flying with the Hippogriff
  

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  Harry Potter’s Forbidden Journey and Harry Potter.
  

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  Jurassic World VelociCoaster (pictured below).
  

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  One fish, two fish, red fish, blue fish
  

• 
  The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man
  

• 
  The Incredible Hulk Coaster.
  

Admission fees

As you plan your vacation budget, you might be curious about the costs of each park. Universal Orlando Resort ticket prices can vary by season and date — this is a common practice in amusement parks.

It costs the same to visit both parks, which is a good thing. With a park-to–park ticket, you can visit Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure simultaneously. Or, you can purchase a single-park ticket.

These ticket prices are for guests who wish to spend the day in one of the parks:

• Adults: $109-$159 for a dated tickets or $165 for an flexible, non-dated ticket to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure.

• Children: $154 to $154 for an dated ticket, or $160 to purchase a flexible non-dated entry ticket to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure.

If you wish to visit Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure simultaneously, the following ticket prices are applicable:

• Adults: $164-$214 for a dated tickets or $220 for an flexible non-dated ticket that allows park-to-park entry on the same day.

• Children: $159 – $209 for a dated tickets or $215 – flexible non-dated tickets for park-topark access on the same day.

Which is better: Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure?

It may be worth it to visit both parks if you have the money or time to spend in one park.

If you are not sure, you can consider which park offers the best experience for you based on your interests as well as the type of experience you want. Universal Studios might be right for you if your preference is for a park that focuses on movies and TV, but has a relaxed atmosphere. Islands of Adventure is the place to go if you love superheroes or thrill rides.

It doesn’t matter what you choose, it will be a great experience.

(Top Photo courtesy of Universal Orlando Resort).