Universal Finally Announces Harry Potter Expansion

At last Universal has let the cat out of the bag and admitted to what most fans have known for months. The expansion at Universal Studios Florida that took over what was once Amity will now be the London of Harry Potter lore. Behind the London facade sits Diagon Alley. The Hogwarts Express will connect USF with the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in IOA. The announcement also confirmed that the massive show building we've all been seeing will become a thrill ride based on Gringotts Bank. A restaurant and several shops are slated to appear in the expansion as well. Can't say we're surprised, but at least fans can begin planning their Potter-filled vacations for 2014 with confidence now.

© 2013 Universal Orlando Resort. All rights reserved.

Universal Orlando Resort Weekly Update: April 21 - April 27

Weekly Express Pass Prices

Universal Studios Florida

Sun - Sat: $34.99

Universal Studios Florida U-Bot
Sun - Sat: $17.99

Islands of Adventure

Sun - Sat: $49.99

Islands of Adventure U-Bot
Sun - Sat: $29.99

2-Park Pass

Sun - Sat: $55.99

Universal Studios Florida

Park Hours

Sunday - Thursday: 9:00am - 8:30pm
Friday - Saturday: 8:00am - 6:00

Show Times

A Day in the Park with Barney

Sun - Sat: 11:30am, 12:30pm, 2:00pm*, 3:15pm, 4:30pm

Animal Actors On Location!

Sun - Thurs: 12:00pm, 1:30pm, 3:30pm, 4:45pm, 6:00pm
Fri: 11:15am (meet and greet), 2:30pm, 3:45pm, 5:00pm
Sat: 10:45am, 12:15pm, 2:00pm, 3:15pm, 4:30pm (meet and greet)

Beetlejuice's Graveyard Revue

Sun - Thurs: 12:45pm, 2:00pm, 4:00pm, 5:30pm
Fri - Sat: 12:30pm, 2:30pm, 4:30pm

The Blues Brothers

Sun - Thurs: 11:00am, 12:00pm, 1:30pm, 2:45pm, 4:00pm

Fri - Sat: 11:00am, 12:00pm, 1:15pm, 2:45pm, 4:00pm

Fear Factor Live

Sun - Thurs: 1:00pm, 2:30pm, 5:00pm, 6:30pm
Fri - Sat: 12:00pm, 1:30pm, 4:00pm, 5:30pm

Horror Make-Up Show

Sun - Thurs: 12:45pm, 1:30pm, 3:00pm, 3:45pm, 4:30pm, 5:45pm, 6:30pm, 7:15pm
Fri - Sat: 11:00am, 11:45am, 12:30pm, 1:15pm, 2:30pm, 3:15pm, 4:00pm, 4:45pm

Terminator 2 3-D

Sun - Thurs: Continuous shows from 11:30am - 7:30pm
Fri - Sat: 11:00am, 11:45am, 12:30pm, 1:15pm, 2:45pm, 3:30pm, 4:15pm, 5:00pm, 5:30pm

* Show offers a sign language interpreter

Character Meet & Greets

Hollywood (May include: Doc Brown, Marilyn Monroe, Lucy, Betty Boop, Popeye and Olive Oyl, The Simpsons, Men in Black, The Blues Brothers, Miss Scarlet, Shaggy and Scooby Doo)

Sun - Sat: Throughout the day from 9:00am to 4:15pm

Meet Shrek and Donkey near the Shrek 4-D exit

Sun - Sat: 10:00am to 12:45pm & 1:30pm to 4:15pm

Meet SpongeBob SquarePants in the SpongeBob StorePants

Sun - Sat: 10:00am to 1:00pm & 1:30pm to 4:15pm

Character Party Zones at the intersection in front of Mel's Drive In

Despicable Me

Sun - Thurs: 10:45am (this set only in front of Lucy - A Tribute), 1:05pm

Fri - Sat: 9:15am (this set only in front of Lucy - A Tribute), 10:55am

SpongeBob SquarePants

Sun - Thurs: 11:20am, 1:40pm

Fri - Sat: 9:40am, 11:20am

Hop

Sun - Thurs: 11:55am, 2:15pm

Fri - Sat: 10:05am, 11:45am

Dora the Explorer and Diego

Sun - Thurs: 12:30pm, 3:00pm

Fri - Sat: 10:30am, 12:10pm

Universal's Superstar Parade

Sun - Thurs: 5:00pm

Fri - Sat: 2:00pm

Universal's Cinematic Spectacular

Sun - Thurs: 8:30pm
Fri - Sat: No show scheduled

Special Attraction Hours

Disaster!

Sun - Thurs: Continuous shows from 10:00am - 8:30pm
Fri - Sat: Continuous shows from 10:00am - 5:30pm

Fievel's Playland, Curious George Goes to Town, and Woody Woodpecker's Nuthouse Coaster

Sun - Sat: Open at 10:00am

Fievel's Waterslide

Sun - Sat: Opens at 11:00am

Special Dining Hours

Lombard's Seafood Grille

Sun - Thurs: 11:30am - 7:30pm
Fri - Sat: 11:30am - 4:30pm

Finnegan's Bar and Grill

Sun - Thurs: 11:00am - 7:00pm
Fri - Sat: 11:00am - 5:00pm

Schwab's Pharmacy

Sun - Thurs: 1:00pm - 7:00pm
Fri - Sat: 12:00pm - 5:00pm

Cafe La Bamba

Sun - Sat: 9:00am Character Breakfast Only

Islands of Adventure

Park Hours

Sunday - Tuesday: 9:00am - 7:00pm
Wednesday: 9:00am - 6:00pm
Thursday: 9:00am - 7:00pm
Friday - Saturday: 8:00am - 6:00pm

Show Times

The Eighth Voyage of Sinbad Stunt Show

Sun - Sat: 12:30pm, 2:00pm, 4:00pm

Poseidon's Fury

Sun - Tues, Sat: Continuous tours from 11:00am to 6:00pm
Wed: Continuous tours from 11:00am - 5:00pm
Fri-Sat: Continuous tours from 11:00am - 5:30pm

Hogwarts Frog Choir on the stage outside Hogwarts

Sun - Sat: 10:30am, 11:30am, 12:30pm, 2:00pm, 3:00pm, 4:00pm

Triwizard Spirit Rally on the stage outside Hogwarts

Sun - Sat: 11:00am, 12:00pm, 1:00pm, 2:30pm, 3:30pm, 4:30pm

Oh! The Stories You'll Hear in Circus McGurkus

Sun - Sat: 10:30am, 11:30am, 12:30pm, 2:30pm, 3:30pm, 4:30pm

* Show offers a sign language interpreter

Character Meet & Greets

Classic Comic Book Characters in Toon Lagoon (May include: Betty Boop, Popeye and Olive Oyl, Beetle Bailey)

Sun - Sat: 11:15am to 2:00pm & 2:30pm to 5:00pm

Marvel Villains (May include: Dr. Doom, Green Goblin)

Sun - Sat: 10:30pm, 11:30pm, 12:30pm, 2:30pm, 3:30pm, 4:30pm

Marvel Super Heroes (May include: Captain America, Wolverine, Cyclops, Rogue, Storm)

Sun - Sat: 11:00am, 12:00pm, 1:00pm, 3:00pm, 4:00pm, 5:00pm

Spider-Man

Sun & Thurs: Continuously from 9:40am to 6:45pm
Mon - Wed, Fri - Sat: Continuously from 9:40am to 5:15pm

Seuss Landing Characters (May include: Cat in the Hat, The Grinch, Sam I Am, Thing 1 and Thing 2)

Sun - Sat: 10:00am, 11:00am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm, 3:00pm, 4:00pm

Special Attraction Hours

Popeye & Bluto's Bilge-Rat Barges and Me Ship, The Olive
Sun - Sat: Open at 1:00am

Jurassic Park Discovery Center

Sun - Sat: 10:00am to 5:00pm

Dragon Challenge
Sun - Thurs: Opens at 12:00pm
Fri - Sat: Opens at 7:00am for early park admission

Special Dining Hours

Mythos

Sun - Sat: 11:00am - 4:00pm

Confisco Grille

Sun - Fri: 11:00am - 4:00pm
Sat: 11:00am - 5:00pm

Wimpy's Hamburger Stand

Closed for the season

CityWalk

Blue Man Group

Sun: 7:00pm
Mon - Thurs: 8:00pm
Fri & Sat: 6:00, 9:00

Universal Studios Orlando FAQs - What are the Ride Height Restrictions?

How tall to you have to be to ride?

For your safety, many of the rides at Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure have height restrictions.

For these rides, a height sign is located outside the attraction's entrance. If you suspect that a member of your party may be too short, please stop and have them checked. Sneaking past the first height sign will just result in your child getting measured further on - potentially creating a very disappointing situation after a long wait in line. For more tips on height signs, please see our post: How to Handle Height Signs.

Here are the current height restrictions for all of the attractions at the Universal Orlando Resort:

Universal Studios Florida

• Woody Woodpecker’s Nuthouse Coaster – 36” to ride, over 48” to ride alone
• Despicable Me Minion Mayhem – 40” to ride, over 48” to ride alone (There are non-moving seats here where anyone can sit, regardless of height)
• Men in Black: Alien Attack – 42” to ride, over 48” to ride alone
• E.T. Adventure – 34” to ride, over 48” to ride alone
• Revenge of the Mummy – 48” to ride
• The Simpsons Ride – 40” to ride, over 48” to ride alone
• Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit – 51” to ride. If you’re taller than 79” you cannot ride

Islands of Adventure

• The High in the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride – 34” to ride, over 48” to ride alone
• Flight of the Hippogriff – 36” to ride, over 48” to ride alone
• Pteranodon Flyers – Between 36” and 56” to ride. If you’re taller than 56” you need to have a child with you
• The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man – 40” to ride, over 48” to ride alone
• Jurassic Park River Adventure – 42” to ride, over 48” to ride alone
• Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges – 42” to ride, over 48” to ride alone
• Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls – 44” to ride, over 48” to ride alone
• Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey – 48” to ride
• Dr. Doom’s Fearfall – 52” to ride
• Dragon Challenge – 54” to ride
• The Incredible Hulk Coaster- 54” to ride

Why do you have to be over 48” to ride alone?

The Universal Orlando Resort has a strict safety policy stating that if a person is less
than 48” tall they have to experience many attractions with a supervising companion. A
supervising companion should be an adult or older sibling.

Do you have a question about the Universal Orlando Resort that isn't answered here? Email us and we'll be happy to respond promptly. Your question may also be featured in a future blog post.

Universal Orlando Resort Weekly Update: April 14 - April 20, 2013

Weekly Express Pass Prices

Universal Studios Florida

Sun, Sat: $49.99
Mon - Fri: $34.99

Universal Studios Florida U-Bot
Sun, Sat: $29.99
Mon-Fri: $17.99

Islands of Adventure

Sun - Sat: $59.99

Islands of Adventure
Sun - Sat: $29.99

2-Park Pass

Sun - Sat: $69.99

Universal Studios Florida

Park Hours

Sunday: 9:00am to 7:00pm
Mon, Tues, Thurs: 9:00am to 8:30pm
Wed: 9:00am to 8:00pm
Fri: 8:00am to 6:00pm
Sat: 9:00am to 10:00pm

Mardi Gras - Saturday, April 20

French Quarter Courtyard Activites: Begins at 4:00pm

Live in the Courtyard: Daddy Mack Blues Band at 4:15pm, 5:30pm, 6:30pm

Parade: 7:45pm

Live in the Music Plaza: The All-American Rejects at 8:30pm

Show Times

A Day in the Park with Barney

Sun - Sat: 11:30am, 12:30pm, 2:00pm*, 3:15pm, 4:30pm

Animal Actors On Location!

Sun & Wed: 1:30pm, 3:30*pm, 4:45pm, 6:00pm
Mon, Tues, Thurs, Sat: 12:00pm, 1:30pm, 3:30pm*, 4:45pm, 6:00pm
Fri: 12:45pm, 2:30pm, 3:45pm*, 5:00pm

Beetlejuice's Graveyard Revue

Sun & Fri: 12:30*pm, 2:30pm, 4:00pm
Mon - Thurs: 12:45pm*, 2:00pm, 4:00pm, 5:30pm
Sat: 11:45am, 1:00pm*, 2:45pm, 4:00pm, 6:00pm, 7:15pm

The Blues Brothers

Sun - Thurs: 11:00am, 12:00pm, 1:30pm, 2:45pm, 4:00pm

Fri - Sat: 11:00am, 12:00pm, 1:15pm, 2:45pm, 4:00pm

Fear Factor Live

Sun: 1:00pm, 2:30pm, 5:00pm*
Mon - Thurs, Sat: 1:00pm, 2:30pm, 5:00pm*, 6:30pm
Fri: 12:00pm, 1:30pm, 4:00pm, 5:30pm

Horror Make-Up Show

Sun: 12:30pm, 1:15pm, 2:00pm*, 3:15pm, 4:00pm, 4:45pm, 5:30pm, 6:15pm
Mon - Thurs: 12:45pm, 1:30pm, 3:00pm*, 3:45pm, 4:30pm, 5:45pm, 6:30pm, 7:15pm
Fri: 11:00am, 11:45am, 12:30pm, 1:15pm, 2:30pm*, 3:15pm, 4:00pm, 4:45pm
Sat: 11:30am, 12:30pm, 2:00pm, 2:45pm*, 3:30pm, 4:15pm, 5:00pm, 5:45pm, 6:30pm, 7:15pm, 8:00pm, 8:45pm

Terminator 2 3-D

Sun: 11:30am, 12:00pm, 12:45pm, 1:30pm, 3:00pm, 3:45pm, 4:30pm, 5:15pm, 6:00pm
Mon, Tues, Thurs: Continuous shows from 11:30am to 7:30pm
Wed: Continuous shows 11:00am to 7:00pm
Fri: 11:00am, 11:45am, 12:30pm, 1:15pm, 2:45pm, 3:30pm, 4:15pm, 5:00pm, 5:30pm
Sat: Continuous shows from 10:30am to 9:30pm

* Show offers a sign language interpreter

Character Meet & Greets

Hollywood (May include: Doc Brown, Marilyn Monroe, Lucy, Betty Boop, Popeye and Olive Oyl, The Simpsons, Men in Black, The Blues Brothers, Miss Scarlet, Shaggy and Scooby Doo)

Sun - Sat: Throughout the day from 9:00am to 4:15pm

Meet Shrek and Donkey near the Shrek 4-D exit

Sun - Sat: 10:00am to 12:45pm & 1:30pm to 4:15pm

Meet SpongeBob SquarePants in the SpongeBob StorePants

Sun - Sat: 10:00am to 1:00pm & 1:30pm to 4:15pm

Character Party Zones at the intersection in front of Mel's Drive In

Despicable Me

Sun - Thurs: 10:45am (this set only in front of Lucy - A Tribute), 1:05pm

Fri - Sat: 9:15am (this set only in front of Lucy - A Tribute), 10:55am

SpongeBob SquarePants

Sun - Thurs: 11:20am, 1:40pm

Fri - Sat: 9:40am, 11:20am

Hop

Sun - Thurs: 11:55am, 2:15pm

Fri - Sat: 10:05am, 11:45am

Dora the Explorer and Diego

Sun - Thurs: 12:30pm, 3:00pm

Fri - Sat: 10:30am, 12:10pm

Universal's Superstar Parade

Sun - Thurs: 5:00pm

Fri - Sat: 2:00pm

Universal's Cinematic Spectacular

Sun, Wed, Fri: No show
Mon, Tues, Thurs: 8:30pm
Sat: 10:00pm

Special Attraction Hours

Disaster!

Sun: Continuous shows from 10:00am to 6:30pm
Mon, Tues, Thurs: Continuous shows from 10:00am to 8:00pm
Wed: Continuous shows from 10:00am to 7:30pm
Fri: Continuous shows from 10:00am to 5:30pm
Sat: Continuous shows from 9:45am to 9:30pm

Fievel's Playland, Curious George Goes to Town, and Woody Woodpecker's Nuthouse Coaster

Sun - Sat: Open at 10:00am

Fievel's Waterslide

Sun - Sat: Opens at 11:00am

E.T. Adventure
Sun: Opens at 9:00am
Mon - Sat: Opens with the park

Special Dining Hours

Lombard's Seafood Grille

Sun & Fri: 11:30am - 3:00pm
Mon, Tues, Thurs: 11:30am - 7:30pm
Wed: 11:30am - 6:30pm
Sat: 11:30am - 10:00pm

Finnegan's Bar and Grill

Sun: 11:00am - 6:00pm
Mon - Thurs: 11:00am to 7:00pm
Fri: 11:00am - 5:00pm

Sat: 11:00am - 9:00pm

Schwab's Pharmacy

Sun: 1:00pm - 6:00pm
Mon - Thurs: 1:00pm - 7:00pm
Fri: 12:00pm - 5:00pm
Sat: 12:00 - 8:30pm

Cafe La Bamba

Sun - Sat: 9:00am Character Breakfast Only

Islands of Adventure

Park Hours

Sunday: 9:00am to 8:00pm
Mon - Wed: 9:00am to 7:00pm
Thurs & Sat: 9:00am to 8:00pm
Fri: 8:00am to 6:00pm

Show Times

The Eighth Voyage of Sinbad Stunt Show

Sun, Thurs - Sat: 12:30pm*, 2:00pm, 4:30pm

Mon - Wed: 12:30pm*, 2:00pm, 4:30pm, 6:00pm

Poseidon's Fury

Sun, Thurs, Sat: Continuous tours from 10:00am to 7:00pm
Mon - Wed: Continuous tours from 10:00am - 6:30pm
Fri: Continuous tours from 1:00am - 5:30pm

Hogwarts Frog Choir on the stage outside Hogwarts

Sun - Sat: 10:30am, 11:30am, 12:30pm, 2:00pm, 3:00pm, 4:00pm

Triwizard Spirit Rally on the stage outside Hogwarts

Sun, Thurs, Sat: 1:30pm, 2:30pm, 3:30pm, 4:30pm, 6:00pm, 7:00pm
Mon - Wed, Fri: 11:00am, 12:00pm, 1:00pm, 2:30pm, 3:30pm, 4:30pm

Oh! The Stories You'll Hear in Circus McGurkus

Sun - Sat: 10:30am, 11:30am, 12:30pm, 2:30pm, 3:30pm, 4:30pm

* Show offers a sign language interpreter

Character Meet & Greets

Classic Comic Book Characters in Toon Lagoon (May include: Betty Boop, Popeye and Olive Oyl, Beetle Bailey)

Sun - Sat: 11:15am to 2:00pm & 2:30pm to 5:00pm

Marvel Villains (May include: Dr. Doom, Green Goblin)

Sun - Sat: 10:30pm, 11:30pm, 12:30pm, 2:30pm, 3:30pm, 4:30pm

Marvel Super Heroes (May include: Captain America, Wolverine, Cyclops, Rogue, Storm)

Sun - Sat: 11:00am, 12:00pm, 1:00pm, 3:00pm, 4:00pm, 5:00pm

Spider-Man

Sun, Thurs, Sat: Continuously from 9:40am to 7:45pm
Mon - Wed, Fri: Continuously from 9:40am to 5:15pm

Seuss Landing Characters (May include: Cat in the Hat, The Grinch, Sam I Am, Thing 1 and Thing 2)

Sun - Sat: 10:00am, 11:00am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm, 3:00pm, 4:00pm

Special Attraction Hours

Jurassic Park Discovery Center

Sun - Sat: 10:00am to 5:00pm

Dragon Challenge
Sun - Thurs: Opens at 12:00pm
Fri - Sat: Opens with the park

Special Dining Hours

Mythos

Sun & Sat: 11:00am - 6:00pm
Mon - Fri: 11:00am - 4:00pm

Confisco Grille

Sun & Thurs: 11:00am to 6:00pm

Mon, Wed, Fri : 11:00am to 5:00pm
Sat: 11:00am to 7:00pm

Wimpy's Hamburger Stand

Closed for the season

CityWalk

Blue Man Group

Sun: 7:00pm
Mon - Thurs: 8:00pm
Fri & Sat: 6:00, 9:00

Universal Studios Orlando FAQs - Am I Going to Lose My Shoes?

Dragon Challenge in the
Wizarding World of Harry Potter

This ride makes me think I’m going to lose my shoes. Should I leave them in a
locker? Can I set them off to the side and get them after I ride?





Please bring your shoes with you on every attraction at Universal Orlando. In case of a ride evacuation, your shoes will be needed to protect your feet. Here are some tips for protecting your shoes on various attractions:

Dragon Challenge

There are two ways to keep your shoes here: take them off and place them on your seat before sitting down, or keep you ankles crossed for the entire ride.

Dr. Doom’s Fearfall

Sit down then kick your shoes off. Once this ride is in motion, no one will enter your ride area, keeping all of your stuff very secure. Also, you’ll be finishing the ride exactly where you started, so you won’t have to go far without your shoes.

Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges

There is a large covered area in the center of the boat that is designed to (hopefully) keep important belongings dry. Once seated, place your shoes in this covered area for your best chance of keeping them dry. However, this is not a guarantee. A good rule of thumb for this and other water rides is to leave anything you don't want to get wet behind. While you need to have your shoes with you, you could bring a pair of sandals that you wouldn’t mind getting wet to wear on the water rides rather than your comfortable
walking shoes.

Do you have a question about the Universal Orlando Resort that you don't see an answer for? Email us and we'll respond right away. Your question may also be featured in a future post!

Universal Orlando Resort Weekly Update: April 7 - April 13, 2013

Weekly Express Pass Prices

Universal Studios Florida

Sun - Sat: $49.99

Universal Studios Florida After 4pm

Sun - Mon: $25.99
Tues - Sat: N/A

Islands of Adventure

Sun - Sat: $59.99

Islands of Adventure After 4pm

Sun - Mon: $35.99
Tues - Sat: N/A

2-Park Pass

Sun - Sat: $69.99

Universal Studios Florida

Park Hours

Sunday - Thursday: 9:00am to 8:30pm
Friday: 8:00am to 6:00pm (Grad Bash 6:00pm to 2:00am)

Saturday: 9:00am to 10:00pm

Mardi Gras - Saturday, April 13

French Quarter Courtyard Activites: Begins at 4:00pm

Live in the Courtyard: The Rockin' Jake Band at 4:15pm, 5:30pm, 6:30pm

Parade: 7:45pm

Live in the Music Plaza: Pitbull at 8:30pm

Show Times

A Day in the Park with Barney

Sun - Sat: 11:30am, 12:30pm, 2:00pm*, 3:15pm, 4:30pm

Animal Actors On Location!

Sun - Thurs, Sat: 12:00pm, 1:3opm, 3:30pm*, 4:45pm, 6:00pm
Fri: 11:45am (meet and greet), 12:45pm, 2:30pm, 3:45pm, 5:00pm

Beetlejuice's Graveyard Revue

Sun - Thurs: 12:45pm, 2:00pm, 4:00pm, 5:30pm
Fri: 12:30pm, 2:30pm, 4:00pm

Sat: 11:45am, 1:00pm, 2:45pm, 4:00pm, 6:00pm, 7:15pm

The Blues Brothers

Sun - Thurs: 11:00am, 12:00pm, 1:30pm, 2:45pm, 4:00pm

Fri - Sat: 11:00am, 12:00pm, 1:15pm, 2:45pm, 4:00pm

Fear Factor Live

Sun - Thurs, Sat: 1:00pm, 2:30pm, 5:00pm, 6:30pm

Fri: 12:00pm, 1:30pm, 4:00pm, 5:30pm

Horror Make-Up Show

Sun - Thurs: 12:45pm, 1:30pm, 3:30pm, 3:45pm, 4:30pm, 5:45pm, 6:30pm, 7:15pm

Fri: 11:00am, 11:45am, 12:30pm, 1:15pm, 2:30pm, 3:15pm, 4:00pm, 4:45pm
Sat: 11:30am, 12:30pm, 2:00pm, 2:45pm, 3:30pm, 4:15pm, 5:00pm, 5:45pm, 6:30pm, 7:15pm, 8:00pm, 8:45pm

Terminator 2 3-D

Sun - Thurs: Continuous shows from 11:30am - 7:30pm
Fri: 11:00am, 11:45am, 12:30pm, 1:15pm, 2:45pm, 3:30pm, 4:15pm, 5:00pm, 5:30pm

Sat: Continuous shows from 10:30am - 9:30pm

* Show offers a sign language interpreter

Character Meet & Greets

Hollywood (May include: Doc Brown, Marilyn Monroe, Lucy, Betty Boop, Popeye and Olive Oyl, The Simpsons, Men in Black, The Blues Brothers, Miss Scarlet, Shaggy and Scooby Doo)

Sun - Sat: Throughout the day from 9:00am to 4:15pm

Meet Shrek and Donkey near the Shrek 4-D exit

Sun - Sat: 10:00am to 12:45pm & 1:30pm to 4:15pm

Meet SpongeBob SquarePants in the SpongeBob StorePants

Sun - Sat: 10:00am to 1:00pm & 1:30pm to 4:15pm

Character Party Zones at the intersection in front of Mel's Drive In

Despicable Me

Sun - Thurs: 10:45am (this set only in front of Lucy - A Tribute), 1:05pm

Fri - Sat: 9:15am (this set only in front of Lucy - A Tribute), 10:55am

SpongeBob SquarePants

Sun - Thurs: 11:20am, 1:40pm

Fri - Sat: 9:40am, 11:20am

Hop

Sun - Thurs: 11:55am, 2:15pm

Fri - Sat: 10:05am, 11:45am

Dora the Explorer and Diego

Sun - Thurs: 12:30pm, 3:00pm

Fri - Sat: 10:30am, 12:10pm

Universal's Superstar Parade

Sun - Thurs: 5:00pm

Fri - Sat: 2:00pm

Universal's Cinematic Spectacular

Sun - Thurs: 8:30pm
Fri: No show scheduled

Sat: 10:00pm

Special Attraction Hours

Disaster!

Sun - Thurs: Shows from 10:00am to 8:00pm
Fri: Shows from 10:00 to 5:50

Sat: Shows from 9:45am to 9:30pm

Fievel's Playland, Curious George Goes to Town, E.T. Adventure, and Woody Woodpecker's Nuthouse Coaster

Sun - Sat: Open at 10:00am

Fievel's Waterslide

Sun - Sat: Opens at 11:00am

Special Dining Hours

Lombard's Seafood Grille

Sun - Thurs: 11:30am - 7:30pm
Fri: 11:30am - 3:00pm
Sat: 11:30am - 8:30pm

Finnegan's Bar and Grill

Sun - Thurs: 11:00am - 7:00pm
Fri: 11:00am - 5:00pm

Sat: 11:00am - 7:00pm

Schwab's Pharmacy

Sun - Thurs: 1:00pm - 7:30pm
Fri: 12:00pm - 5:00pm
Sat: 12:00 - 9:00pm

Cafe La Bamba

Sun - Sat: 9:00am character breakfast

Islands of Adventure

Park Hours

Sunday - Monday: 9:00am - 8:00pm
Tuesday: 9:00am - 7:00pm
Wednesday - Thursday: 9:00am to 8:00pm
Friday: 8:00am to 6:00pm (Grad Bash 6:00pm to 2:00am
Saturday: 9:00am to 8:00pm

Show Times

The Eighth Voyage of Sinbad Stunt Show

Sun - Thurs, Sat: 12:30pm, 2:00pm, 4:30pm, 6:00pm

Fri: 12:30pm, 2:00pm, 4:30pm

Poseidon's Fury

Sun - Mon: Continuous tours from 10:00am - 7:00pm
Tues: Continuous tours from 10:00am - 6:30pm
Wed - Thurs, Sat: Continuous tours from 10:00am to 7:00pm
Fri: Continuous tours from 11:00am to 5:30pm

Hogwarts Frog Choir on the stage outside Hogwarts

Sun - Sat: 10:30am, 11:30am, 12:30pm, 2:00pm, 3:00pm, 4:00pm

Triwizard Spirit Rally on the stage outside Hogwarts

Sun - Mon, Wed - Thurs, Sat: 1:30pm, 2:30pm, 3:30pm, 4:30pm, 6:00pm, 7:00pm
Tues, Fri: 11:00am, 12:00pm, 1:00pm, 2:30pm, 3:30pm, 4:30pm

Oh! The Stories You'll Hear in Circus McGurkus

Sun - Sat: 10:30am, 11:30am, 12:30pm, 2:30pm, 3:30pm, 4:30pm

* Show offers a sign language interpreter

Character Meet & Greets

Classic Comic Book Characters in Toon Lagoon (May include: Betty Boop, Popeye and Olive Oyl, Beetle Bailey)

Sun - Sat: 11:15am to 2:00pm & 2:30pm to 5:00pm

Marvel Villains (May include: Dr. Doom, Green Goblin)

Sun - Sat: 10:30pm, 11:30pm, 12:30pm, 2:30pm, 3:30pm, 4:30pm

Marvel Super Heroes (May include: Captain America, Wolverine, Cyclops, Rogue, Storm)

Sun - Sat: 11:00am, 12:00pm, 1:00pm, 3:00pm, 4:00pm, 5:00pm

Spider-Man

Sun, Thurs, Sat: Continuously from 9:40am to 7:45pm
Mon - Wed, Fri: Continuously from 9:40am to 8:15pm

Seuss Landing Characters (May include: Cat in the Hat, The Grinch, Sam I Am, Thing 1 and Thing 2)

Sun - Sat: 10:00am, 11:00am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm, 3:00pm, 4:00pm

Special Attraction Hours

Jurassic Park Discovery Center

Sun - Sat: 10:00am to 5:00pm

Dragon Challenge
Sun - Fri: Opens at 12:00pm
Sat: Opens at 9:00am

Special Dining Hours

Mythos

Sun - Sat: 11:00am to 6:00pm

Confisco Grille

Sun - Thurs: 11:00am to 6:00pm

Fri : 11:00am to 5:00pm
Sat: 11:00am to 6:00pm

Wimpy's Hamburger Stand

Closed for the season

CityWalk

Blue Man Group

Sun: 7:00pm
Mon: No show schedules
Tues - Thurs: 8:00pm
Fri - Sat: 6:00pm, 9:00pm

Universal Studios Orlando FAQs - How do Ride Lockers Work?

The Universal Orlando Resort offers a variety of attractions from roller coasters to water rides. Many of these do not allow loose items and therefore offer a free locker for the duration of the ride. To ensure the quickest and most enjoyable experience, it's always a good idea to be prepared for these restrictions before you hop in line.

Every theme park handles things differently and the rules that applied at Disney World or SeaWorld may not be in place here. These FAQs will help you navigate the Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure Attractions with bag restrictions.

If you have a question that's not answered below, feel free to email us. We'll write you back right away, and may even publish your question in a future post.

Can I take my bag/stuffed Minion/Butterbeer Mug/overly large camera on the ride?

If you're going into a show, yes. If it's a thrill ride, probably not. Any ride at Universal Orlando that doesn’t allow loose items offers lockers that are free while you are riding. A full list is provided below.

Which rides offer free lockers?

Universal Studios Florida

• Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
• Revenge of the Mummy
• Men in Black: Alien Attack

Islands of Adventure

• The Incredible Hulk Coaster
• Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
• Dragon Challenge
• Jurassic Park River Adventure
• Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge Rat Barges
• Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls

How do the lockers know if I’m still riding?

There is a locker attendant located at each attraction locker area, and this person monitors the current wait time. When the wait time for the ride goes up, they adjust the amount of free period accordingly.

My locker won’t open unless I pay. But I was on the ride. Help!

At each attraction locker area, there is a locker attendant. Find this person and explain your situation to them. Chances are there’s a reason why you went over your time, such as a brief attraction down time. The attendant is able to see how long your belongings have been in your locker, and they are more than willing to assist in getting your stuff out.

What sorts of things should I leave in my locker?

Anything that doesn’t easily fit in your pocket should be left behind. Things like glasses, wallets, cell phones, and shoes can all come along. In fact, of all of these things, definitely bring your shoes. Guests must have their shoes and shirts with them at all times while riding rides at Universal Orlando.

Is there an alternative to using the lockers?

If your entire party is riding, you'll need to place all your loose belongings in the lockers provided. If you have someone who's staying behind, it may be easier to leave your items with them. Parties with a child who is too short to ride can leave their bags with the person who's waiting with the child. This allows you to keep your diaper bag and other essentials with you while you're waiting in line - a must for long wait times with small children.

Simpsons Area Construction Update

Construction beside The Simpsons Ride

On a recent visit to Universal Studios Florida, we discovered that several construction walls near The Simpsons Ride have been removed, revealing the facades of a few new buildings. True to the prevailing rumors, one looks to be a replica of Moe’s Tavern, while another is strikingly similar to a Krusty Burger.

As avid Simpsons fans, we were able to compare the facades at Universal Studios Florida with “The Simpsons Tapped Out" app. The Moe’s Tavern and Krusty Burger are definite matches. However, the third is still a mystery. Our current internal debate is whether this looks like another fast food establishment known as the Gulp ‘N Blow, or the Phineas Q. Butterfat’s 5600 Flavors Ice Cream Parlor. The ice cream place would make sense, as there’s already a fast food establishment here with the Krusty Burger. As Kent Brockman always says, “Only time will tell.”

Compare these facades and let us know what you think below!

Islands of Adventure: Jurassic Park

Entering Jurassic Park is an experience straight out of the movie. The iconic park sign with flickering torches towers above and the unmistakable theme song envelopes you as you step though into a world out of time. This is the largest of the islands in Islands of Adventure, covering 21 acres.

This island is created with authenticity in mind. The plant life was specially selected to resemble prehistoric trees and ferns from the Jurassic period. The rustic rope fences along the walkways are only the first line of defense. Further back in the foliage you can see the electrified fences that separate you from the dinosaurs. If you have any doubt that you're surrounded by prehistoric wildlife, just take a moment to listen. You'll hear the distinct trumpeting calls of dinosaurs echoing from the dense vegetation.

Everywhere you look you'll see dinosaur-themed elements that are accurate to what you would expect from John Hammond's theme park. This is surely what he hoped that it would be. The trash cans feature peaceful dinosaur silhouettes parading around them. The streets have the imprints of ferns and leaves. Even the light fixtures feature three-toed dinosaur claws around each orb. If you ever wanted to step into the movie and see Jurassic Park the way Hammond hoped it would be, this island is as close as you'll ever get.

Fern imprints on the streets

Dinosaurs adorning the trash cans

From the back, the Discovery Center is a near perfect replica of the Welcome Center that greets Dr. Ellie Sattler, Dr. Alan Grant, and Dr. Ian Malcolm in the first movie. Head up to the waterfront and you'll get a stunning look across at the other islands around the park.

Jurassic Park Discover Center as seen from across the lagoon

You can enter Jurassic Park from Toon Lagoon or a bridge from the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. A second bridge connects Jurassic Park to The Lost Continent, allowing you to bypass the Wizarding World. However, this bridge isn't always open. It's located off to the right of the Watering Hole, near the back of the Discovery Center if you'd like to check.

Photo Ops

Jurassic Park is filled with exciting photo opportunities, from dinosaurs and vehicles you'll easily recognize from the films, to panoramic views of other areas in the park. The T-Rex in particular is a very special photo opportunity. Here you'll find a new type of photo technology that allows you to include your whole party in one perfectly framed photo, without relying on the dubious skills of a friendly-looking stranger. Scan your park ticket, wait for the red numbers to count down, and pose for your picture. You can check out the photo at the front of the park on your way out.

Spinosaurus photo op

Across from Jurassic Park Outfitters, a couple photo booths offer photo cards and photo strips. This is another handy option if you want to include a couple people in the shot without holding the camera out in front of yourself or asking a stranger for help.

You'll find a less technologically advanced photo op near the DinoStore, where the Spinosaurus from Jurassic Park III is poised above another JP jeep. If you're interested in posing by a jeep sans dinosaur, there's a much less crowded photo op for you down the path beside the Watering Hole. Additional dinosaurs can be found inside the Jurassic Park Discovery Center.

Attractions

• Jurassic Park River Adventure: Thrilling water ride; 42" height requirement
• Pteranodon Flyers: Suspended aerial ride circling Camp Jurassic; guests must be between 36" and 56" tall, guests over 56" must be accompanied by a child
• Camp Jurassic: Outdoor play area for children
• Jurassic Park Discovery Center: Indoor play and exploration area
• Triceratops Encounter: Walk-though dinosaur encounter; only opens seasonally

Characters

Though there aren't any straight-from-the-movie characters in Jurassic Park, you can spot a dinosaur caretaker in the streets with a baby dinosaur from time to time. Keep your eyes open for this rare find.

Dining and Snack Stands

Inside Thunder Falls Terrace

Dining in Jurassic Park often gives you the sensation of eating in John Hammond's dream of a dinosaur-themed park. The Burger Digs is reminiscent of the cafeteria where Tim and Lex encounter the raptors, and Thunder Falls Terrace is surely the elegantly appointed restaurant that would have embodied Hammond's "spare no expense" ideal. Dining options in Jurassic Park include:

• The Burger Digs: Burgers and chicken; counter service; indoor dining room
• Pizza Predattoria: Pizza and meatball subs; counter service; outdoor tables
• Thunder Falls Terrace: Rotisserie chicken, ribs, and salads; cafeteria-style; indoor dining room
• The Watering Hole: Nathan's hot dogs, wings, and nachos; counter service; outdoor tables

Snack stand offerings:

• The Food Chain: Ice cream and churros
• Natural Selections: Fresh fruit and churros
• Jurassic Park Hot Dogs: Hot dogs
• Jurassic Park Popcorn: Popcorn, churros, ice cream

Shopping

Gift shops include:

• Dinostore: In the Jurassic Park Discovery Center; features amber jewelry and fine sculptures
• Jurassic Outfitters: At the exit to the Jurassic Park River Adventure; emphasizes toys, tees, and movie merch

Along the streets in Jurassic Park, you'll also find:

• Temporary tattoos and braids by Pizza Predattoria
• Leather bracelets and jewelry by Pizza Predattoria

Smoking Areas

• Between the splash area beside Jurassic Park River Adventure and Thunder Falls Terrace(look for the area where the boats descend from the building and splash onto the river)
• Across from the Burger Digs
• Near the waterfront side of the Jurassic Park Discovery Center (take the path around by the Watering Hole and follow it past the jeep and off to the right)

Restrooms

• Between the splash zone and the exit for Jurassic Park River Adventure
• Beside Pizza Predattoria

Universal Orlando Resort Weekly Update: March 31 - April 6, 2013

Weekly Express Pass Prices

Universal Studios Florida

Sun - Thurs & Sat: $59.99

Friday: $49.99

Universal Studios Florida After 4pm

Sun - Thurs & Sat: $30.99

Friday: $25.99

Islands of Adventure

Sun, Fri & Sat: $69.99

Mon - Thurs: $79.99

Islands of Adventure After 4pm

Sun, Fri & Sat: $35.99

Mon - Thurs: $40.99

2-Park Pass

Sun - Sat: $89.99

Universal Studios Florida

Park Hours

Sunday - Friday: 9:00am to 9:00pm

Saturday: 9:00am to 10:00pm

Mardi Gras - Saturday, April 6

French Quarter Courtyard Activites: Begins at 4:00pm

Live in the Courtyard: Mississippi Rail Company at 4:15pm, 5:30pm, 6:30pm

Parade: 7:45pm

Live in the Music Plaza: Kool & the Gang at 8:30pm

Show Times

A Day in the Park with Barney

Sun - Sat: 11:30am, 12:30pm, 2:00pm*, 3:15pm, 4:30pm

Animal Actors On Location!

Sun - Sat: 12:00pm, 1:30pm, 3:30pm*, 4:45pm, 6:00pm

Beetlejuice's Graveyard Revue

Sun & Fri: 12:30pm*, 2:15pm, 4:00pm, 5:30pm

Mon - Thurs & Sat: 11:45am, 1:00pm*, 2:45*, 4:00pm, 6:00pm, 7:15pm

The Blues Brothers

Sun - Fri: 11:00am*, 12:00pm, 1:30pm, 2:45pm, 4:00pm

Sat: 11:00am*, 12:00pm, 1:15pm, 2:45pm, 4:00pm

Fear Factor Live

Sun - Sat: 1:00pm, 2:30pm, 5:00pm*, 6:30pm

Horror Make-Up Show

Sun - Fri: 11:15am, 12:15pm, 1:45pm, 2:30pm*, 3:15pm, 4:00pm, 4:45pm, 5:30pm, 6:15pm, 7:00pm, 7:45pm, 8:30pm

Sat: 11:30am, 12:30pm, 2:00pm, 2:45pm*, 3:30pm, 4:15pm, 5:00pm, 5:45pm, 6:30pm, 7:15pm, 8:00pm, 8:45pm

Terminator 2 3-D

Sun - Fri: Continuous shows from 10:30am - 8:30pm

Sat: Continuous shows from 10:30am - 9:30pm

Studio Brass Band (in front of Lucy - A Tribute)

Sun - Sat: 9:25am, 10:15am, 11:25am, 12:20pm

* Show offers a sign language interpreter

Character Meet & Greets

Hollywood (May include: Doc Brown, Marilyn Monroe, Lucy, Betty Boop, Popeye and Olive Oyl, The Simpsons, Men in Black, The Blues Brothers, Miss Scarlet, Shaggy and Scooby Doo)

Sun - Sat: Throughout the day from 9:00am to 4:15pm

Meet Shrek and Donkey near the Shrek 4-D exit

Sun - Sat: 10:00am to 12:45pm & 1:30pm to 4:15pm

Meet SpongeBob SquarePants in the SpongeBob StorePants

Sun - Sat: 10:00am to 1:00pm & 1:30pm to 4:15pm

Character Party Zones at the intersection in front of Mel's Drive In

Despicable Me

Sun - Fri: 10:45am (this set only in front of Lucy - A Tribute), 1:05pm

Sat: 9:15am (this set only in front of Lucy - A Tribute), 10:55am

SpongeBob SquarePants

Sun - Fri: 11:20am, 1:40pm

Sat: 9:40am, 11:20am

Hop

Sun - Fri: 11:55am, 2:15pm

Sat: 10:05am, 11:45am

Dora the Explorer and Diego

Sun - Fri: 12:30pm, 3:00pm

Sat: 10:30am, 12:10pm

Universal's Superstar Parade

Sun - Fri: 5:00pm

Sat: 2:00pm

Universal's Cinematic Spectacular

Sun - Fri: 9:00pm

Sat: 10:00pm

Special Attraction Hours

Disaster!

Sun - Fri: Shows from 10:00am to 8:30pm

Sat: Shows from 9:45am to 9:30pm

Fievel's Playland, Curious George Goes to Town, and Woody Woodpecker's Nuthouse Coaster

Sun - Sat: Open at 10:00am

Fievel's Waterslide

Sun - Sat: Opens at 11:00am

Special Dining Hours

Lombard's Seafood Grille

Sun - Sat: 11:30am to 9:00pm

Finnegan's Bar ang Grill

Sun - Fri: 11:00am to 8:00pm

Sat: 11:00am to 9:00pm

Schwab's Pharmacy

Sun - Sat: 12:00pm to 8:00pm

Cafe La Bamba

Sun - Sat: 9:00am to 11:00 Character Breakfast and 12:00pm to 5:00pm regular servie

Islands of Adventure

Park Hours

Sunday - Thursday: 8:00am to 10:00pm

Friday - Saturday: 9:00am - 10:00pm

Early Park Admission for onsite resort guests

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Caro-Seuss-El

Sun - Thurs: 7:00am

Fri & Sat: 8:00am

Show Times

The Eighth Voyage of Sinbad Stunt Show

Sun - Thurs: 12:00pm*, 1:15pm, 2:30pm, 4:45pm, 6:00pm, 7:15pm

Fri - Sat: 12:30pm*, 2:00pm, 4:30pm, 6:00pm

Poseidon's Fury

Sun - Sat: Continuous tours from 9:30am - 9:00pm

Hogwarts Frog Choir on the stage outside Hogwarts

Sun - Thurs: 9:00am, 10:00am, 11:00am, 12:30pm, 1:30pm, 2:30pm, 3:30pm, 4:30pm, 5:30pm, 7:00pm, 8:00pm, 9:00pm

Fri - Sat: 10:00am, 11:00am, 12:00pm, 1:30pm, 2:30pm, 3:30pm, 4:30pm, 5:30pm, 6:30pm, 8:00pm, 9:00pm

Triwizard Spirit Rally on the stage outside Hogwarts

Sun - Thurs: 9:30am, 10:30am, 11:30am, 1:00pm, 2:00pm, 3:00pm, 4:00pm, 5:00pm, 6:00pm, 7:30pm, 8:30pm, 9:30pm

Fri - Sat: 10:30am, 11:30am, 12:30pm, 2:00pm, 3:00pm, 4:00pm, 5:00pm, 6:00pm, 7:00pm, 8:30pm, 9:30pm

Oh! The Stories You'll Hear in Circus McGurkus

Sun - Sat: 10:30am, 11:30am, 12:30pm, 2:30pm, 3:30pm, 4:30pm

* Show offers a sign language interpreter

Character Meet & Greets

Adventurer Woody the Woodpecker in the Trading Company

Sun - Sat: 9:30am to 12:15pm & 1:00pm to 3:15pm

Classic Comic Book Characters in Toon Lagoon (May include: Betty Boop, Popeye and Olive Oyl, Beetle Bailey)

Sun - Sat: 11:15am to 2:00pm & 2:30pm to 5:00pm

Marvel Villains (May include: Dr. Doom, Green Goblin)

Sun - Sat: 10:30pm, 11:30pm, 12:30pm, 2:30pm, 3:30pm, 4:30pm

Marvel Super Heroes (May include: Captain America, Wolverine, Cyclops, Rogue, Storm)

Sun - Sat: 11:00am, 12:00pm, 1:00pm, 3:00pm, 4:00pm, 5:00pm

Spider-Man

Sun - Sat: Continuously from 9:40am to 8:15pm

Seuss Landing Characters (May include: Cat in the Hat, The Grinch, Sam I Am, Thing 1 and Thing 2)

Sun - Sat: 10:00am, 11:00am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm, 3:00pm, 4:00pm

Special Attraction Hours

Jurassic Park Discovery Center

Sun - Sat: 10:00am to 7:00pm

Special Dining Hours

Mythos

Sun - Sat: 11:00am to 8:00pm

Confisco Grille

Sun - Thurs: 11:00am to 8:00pm

Fri - Sat: 11:00am to 9:00pm

Wimpy's Hamburger Stand

Sun - Sat: 11:00am to 5:00pm

CityWalk

Blue Man Group

Sun - Sat: 6:00pm, 9:00pm

How to Handle Height Signs

Height Sign for Dr. Doom's Fearfall

Height signs are a necessary part of any theme park. Roller coasters and thrill rides have mandatory height requirements for the safety of all riders. Despite how it may seem, these restrictions were not put in place to torture the smaller members of your family or incite tearful temper tantrums. They are there, quite simply, to make sure that everyone leaves the park as healthy as they were when they came in.

Having spent an extensive amount of time in theme parks, we've seen both the good and the bad of parent reactions to height signs. In the vast majority of cases, situations surrounding these height restrictions can be managed with smart parenting. Children typically feed off of the emotions of the party as a whole - and parents in particular. If you follow these steps, you can navigate height signs easily.

Measure Before You Go

It's helpful to have some general idea of how tall your child is before you leave for your vacation. To stay on the safe side, measure your child barefoot. Practice standing up straight and tall so he'll be prepared for being measured at height signs within the park.

If your child is within half an inch of a particular milestone, don't promise him anything in this height range. If he looks like he's just over 38" tall, by all means get excited about those attractions in the 36" range. When it comes to the 38" attractions, maintain that you'll just have to see when you get there.

Measure Outside the Ride

The entrance to The Incredible Hulk Coaster 

If you have a child who may not meet the height restrictions for a certain attraction, always look for the height sign outside the attraction and have a team member measure your child there. A team member will usually stop you to measure, but on a busy day you may be able to sneak into the queue. This will just result in a major disappointment further down the line if your child is too short. They will be measured before getting on the attraction, and if they don't meet the requirement, you'll be sent to the exit regardless of how much time you wasted standing in line. Always check first.

Don't Interfere with the Measuring Process

Encourage your child to stand up tall and hold his head straight for the measuring process, but do not get down on the ground and begin measuring yourself. This is the team member's job and your interference only makes it more difficult. Your child's head must hit the height stick in order for him to ride. No matter how close he is, if he doesn't touch he won't be riding.

Don't celebrate success until the team member lets you know that your child is indeed tall enough to ride. Too many times parents see a child that is very close and begin clapping and cheering far too soon. This just accentuates the disappointment if the child cannot actually ride.

Keep Your Cool at All Times

If your child is too short, don't scream, argue, sigh audibly, or make a sad face. Don't do anything to indicate that this is a bad thing. After all, it's no one's fault that your child can't ride. Smile, thank the team member, and head excitedly to the next attraction. Congratulate your child on standing up tall and holding still to be measured. Many children who are too short for an attraction don't even fully comprehend what they're missing. If you don't let on, they'll never know.

Make the Wait a Treat for Too-Short Riders

There's no need for your entire party to skip every attraction that your child is too short for. At the Universal Orlando Resort, you can all wait in line together. Use this wait time as a great opportunity for that family bonding that you always hope for on vacation. Keep your eyes open for some of the cool decorations and theming that you find in the queue. Play word games. Do what you can to enjoy this time.

Child Swap Wait Area for Spiderman

When you get up to the ride, at least one member of the party must wait with the shorter rider in a special child swap waiting area. In some attractions, such as Shrek 4-D and Spiderman, you'll have a television with cartoons to watch. These areas are often air conditioned and offer a comfortable place to sit and rest for a few minutes. When the first round of riders gets off, the individual who was waiting will get right on the ride without waiting in line again. As long as one person stays with the child, others can ride twice.

Bring some special treats to keep young children entertained while they're waiting in these areas. Keep these treats for the shorter children only, so they get to play with something fun that's just for them.

If one of the adults in your party is passing on the attraction completely, this individual can take the child to another attraction, or off to explore some gift shops while others ride.

Understand that Every Case is Unique

Though it doesn't happen often, from time a time a child will get onto a ride once but be stopped a second a time and deemed too short. You may hit the height sign for one ride that says 38" inches but fall too short of the next 38" ride. Measure for each and every ride if your child is in that delicate area where they're just barely hitting a certain height. If you can't ride, just move on.

Can you complain and ask for a manager? Sure. Do you have the option of complaining to Guest Relations? Of course. It's up to you how far you want to press the issue, but keep in mind that your attitude sets the tone for the rest of the party, and you can always shrug it off, move on, and find something else to do. There are so many options that you should never be lacking in choices for every member of your party.

The Bottom Line

Height signs can be a hassle for everyone involved, but they are there to protect you and your children. If your child is even a fraction of an inch too short, there's no need to risk their safety for a minute or two of thrills. Carefully research the kid-friendly options in your park of choice so you have plenty of safe alternatives up your sleeve for small children.

The Supply Vault: Transformers Gift Shop

Location: Universal Studios Florida: Production Central/New York

Though Transformers: The Ride won't open until summer 2013, the gift shop's door are already wide open for business. This shop is surprisingly small, so if you're able to get in and check it out now, by all means do so. Once the ride dumps start, it will undoubtedly be an uncomfortable crush of people.

If you're a Transformers fan, this is a must-see stop for all the shirts, hats, backpacks, and mugs you could want. If you love really really big zippers, you'll also be excited about the bags available in this store. Even if you're not a big fan, this is a great place to stop.

Television screens on the walls show some great action scenes while control panels in the center have lots of buttons and switches to play with. Though they don't seem to really do anything, they'll entertain younger guests endlessly.

Though there are lots of options available in the store to suit any taste, here are our picks for the coolest shirts at the Supply Vault:

 

Universal Orlando Construction: Facts and Rumors

If you've been near the Universal Orlando Resort over the last year, you've undoubtedly spotted the numerous cranes towering over the park. Head inside and you'll find construction walls seemingly around every corner, particularly in Universal Studios Florida. Wondering what all this work is about? Here are the current facts and rumors regarding the extensive work going on at USF and IOA.

Updated March 10, 2013

Fact:

• Transformers: The Ride is slated to open in the summer of 2013. The gift shop for the ride is already open and Transformers stilt walkers are on hand during the day for photo ops.
• Extensive construction around Simpsons: The Ride indicates an expansion to this area of the park. This was heavily teased in a recent newsletter to annual passholders which features a picture of the Simpsons next to a promise for future updates about park construction.
• Construction along Turkey Lake will be the site of a fourth Universal hotel, the Cabana Bay Beach Resort. Reservations are available for the resort as early as March 31, 2014.

Rumor:

• The Simpsons expansion will include at least two restaurants to replace the International Food and Film Festival. The facade clearly depicts signs that resemble the Krusty Burger and Moe's Tavern. A third sign in the center looks suspiciously similar to that of Phineas Q. Butterfat's, though no announcements have been made to substantiate this (we just like ice cream).
• The waterfront Simpsons construction will include another attraction in the area, though the size of the construction site would necessitate something relatively small.
• The massive construction project taking place where Amity once was will become London from the Harry Potter books. This is rumored to include a Gringott's Bank roller coaster ride, the Leaky Cauldron, and several shops from Diagon Alley.
• The construction wall in the Lost Continent beside Hogsmeade marks the spot of one of two stations for the Hogwarts Express to connect Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. The other station will be somewhere in the USF expansion.

Stay tuned for future construction updates as they become available!

How to Find Guest Parking at Universal Orlando

Here at Universal Landing we get a lot of emails from Team Members telling us how guests always seem to accidentally end up in the employee parking lot. After scouting the parking lot ourselves,we can understand where the confusion may come from.

The lot is obviously connected to the parks, as you can clearly see places like Krustyland and Hogwarts from the road. There are large signs that say “Universal Orlando Resort,” with a much smaller (and more difficult to read) “Human Resources” under it. When you park and approach the gate, there are security guards awaiting your arrival. If you know nothing about theme parks, it could be easy to assume you’re in the correct place.

You are not.

The easiest way to determine if you’re parking in the correct spot is to ask yourself one simple question: did you pay to park? If yes, then you’re probably in the right place. Also, the official guest lot is a giant two-section parking structure with five levels for parking. Did you not enter a huge parking garage with Universal-themed sections? Are you simply standing in a large parking lot? If you find yourself in the latter, then you are in the incorrect lot.

Universal Orlando’s Human Resources has an address that is often confused for the resort’s address. As such, this location is put into GPS units and guests find themselves in, you guessed it, the employee lot.

For you GPS users, the official address of the Universal Orlando Resort is:

6000 Universal Boulevard
Orlando, FL 32819

This address will take you to the main parking garage for the resort.

What’s that you say? A simple address isn’t good enough for you? You’re an advanced GPS user? That’s okay. Below you’ll find the Geocode that can be programmed into a GPS unit that will take you directly to the main guest parking:

Latitude: 28.47399
Longitude: -81.46228

Always remember that Universal Orlando was designed with people who may never have been from to this country in mind, so it’s fairly simple to navigate. There are gigantic signs that point to any possible location that you may need to get to. Once you make it to the resort, follow these signs and you’ll be fine.

Mardi Gras at Universal Studios Florida 2013

© 2013 Universal Orlando Resort. All rights reserved.

Mardi Gras is just days away and we're already anticipating the showers of beads, the excitement of the parade, and one of the best music lineups this event has had. Admission to Mardi Gras is included with your park ticket to Universal Studios Florida. To make the most of the festivities, make sure to snag your parade-viewing and concert-viewing spots early. Though you can hear the concert from a distance, seating on the lawn in front of the Superstar Stage is first come-first serve. The 2013 music lineup and Mardi Gras nights are as follows:

• February 9 - Lifehouse
• February 16 - Steve Miller Band
• February 17 - Boys Like Girls
• February 23 - Trey Songz
• March 2 - Demi Lovato
• March 9 - Montgomery Gentry
• March 15 - Sean Kingston
• March 16 - Matchbox Twenty
• March 22 - Austin Mahone
• March 23 - Phillip Phillips
• March 30 - Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo
• April 6 - Kool & The Gang
• April 13 - Pitbull
• April 20 - The All-American Rejects

The Watering Hole

Location: Islands of Adventure - Jurassic Park

Set a little away from the beaten path, this little food and drink stop is perfect for a fast bite to eat. The menu features the chicken wings that you can't find on the menu at Pizza Predittoria anymore, as well as Nathan's famous hot dogs. The drink menu is also excellent with lots of alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. Shaded outdoor tables are available.

Menu:

Nathan's Chili Dog Combo with Chips - $8.49
Bowl of Loaded Chili with Onions & Cheese - $5.49
Chicken Wings with Ranch and Celery - $7.99
Nachos with Cheese - $3.99
     -add Chili - $1.69

Fruit Cup - $3.39
Pretzel - $2.99

Beverages:
Coke, Coke Zero, Diet Coke, Sprite, Barq's, Fanta, Hi-C Pink Lemonade
Regular - $2.69
Large - $2.99
Minute Maid Apple or Orange Juice - $1.99
Bottled Spring Water - $2.75

Frozen Beverages:
Non-alcoholic Strawberry, Pina Colada, or Blue Raspberry - $3.75
     -with Alcohol - $7.75

Beer and Wine
Draft Beer/Souvenir Pilsner
Miller Lite - $6.00/$8.00
Yuengling - $6.50/$9.00
Sam Adams Seasonal - $6.75/$9.25

Bottled Beer
Miller Lite & Coors Lite - $6.00
Heineken - $6.50
Fosters - $7.50

Wine by the Glass
Chardonnay and Merlot - $6.00

** Menus and pricing are subject to change at any time **

Super Hero Island Cotton Candy

As with all the snack food stands in Super Hero Island, this spot has a blunt straightforward name, just like you're walking through the pages of a comic book. If you're looking for spun sugar, there's no better place to stop for a little bite of pure hyper energy.

Menu:

Fresh Handmade Cotton Candy - $2.99

Cinnamon Churro - $2.99

Pretzel - $2.99

     -add Cheese - $0.79

Coke, Coke Zero, Diet Coke, Sprite, Barq's Root Beer

Regular - $2.69

Large - $2.99

Minute Maid Apple or Orange Juice - $1.99

Powerade -$2.89

Bottled Spring Water - $2.75

Icee - $3.99

Souvenir Icee Cup - $9.99

Souvenir Cup Refills - $3.09

** Menus and pricing are subject to change at any time **

Universal Studios Holiday Celebration 2012

The holiday season is upon us once again, and Universal Orlando will officially begin their Celebration tomorrow, on December 1. Below are some of the exciting activities and events that you can look forward to.

Grinchmas

© 2012 Universal Orlando Resort. All rights reserved.

Where: Seuss Landing, IOA

The Wholiday Spectacular stage show brings the beloved story of the Grinch to life. Even if you don't catch the show, it's worth taking a leisurely stroll through Seuss Landing to soak up the atmosphere. Festive Whos will be seen strolling the streets, enjoying the holiday season.

You can also Meet the Grinch in person at select times throughout the day. Check your park map on the day of your visit for exact times.

A special Character Breakfast with the Grinch and Friends is taking place on select dates throughout December. You must have reservations, so book your table now. Prices are $24.99 for adults and $10.99 for children. Dates and times are as follows:

December 1-2, 6-9, 13-25: 8:00am, 9:00am, and 10:00am

December 26-31: 7:00am, 8:00am, 9:00am, and 10:00am

Mannheim Steamroller

Where: Music Plaza Stage in USF

Mannheim Steamroller will be performing their great Christmas hits live on eight different nights as part of Universal's 2012 Holiday celebration. This concert is free with your park admission. Performances will take place at 6:00pm on December 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, and 23. 

© 2012 Universal Orlando Resort.
All rights reserved.

Macy's Holiday Parade

Where: Universal Studios Florida

The Macy's Holiday Parade will step off in Universal Studios on December 1 and take place daily through January 1. This parade includes many of the very same floats that you've seen in Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. Be prepared for lots of sparkling floats, confetti-filled streets, giant balloons, and an appearance by Santa Clause himself.

Special Holiday Shows

Where: Universal Studios Florida

During the month of December, A Day in the Park with Barney will become A Barney Holiday with special holiday songs and dances.

The Blues Brothers will put on The Blues Brothers Holiday Show as well with festive Christmas songs in their rocking routine.

Transformers: The Ride Coming to Universal Orlando

A special opening to Universal's Cinematic Spectacular has officially announced the coming of Transformers: The Ride to Universal Studios Florida. Check out the announcement below:

PYQ at CityWalk

The newest addition to CityWalk is a fantastic little shop called PYQ (pronounced "pick"). This small store is like a brick and mortar Perpetual Kid with a dash of the apartment wares typically found in shops like Urban Outfitters thrown in. You'll find all the bizarre and awesome little gadgets you didn't know you needed till you entered, but can't live without when you leave.

If you want a taste of PYQ from the comfort of home, shopping online at the sites mentioned above will give you a great sample of this type of merch. The finger monsters that you'll find in a glass jar at the counter at PYQ are often known to stow away as a surprise extra in Perpetual Kid orders.

To find PYQ, turn right when you get to the end of CityWalk's main drag and you'll find it on the right as you're headed to USF.