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Tackling Universal with Toddlers: A Guide for Parents

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Taking Tiny Ones to Universal Doesn't Need to Be Scary

Everything You Need to Know to have an Epic Universal Day!

“It’s more of  a big kid park.” “We will take them when they are older.” “I just don’t think they would have fun.” These are just some of the many misconceptions I hear when people say they don’t want to take their tiny ones to Universal Orlando. What if I told you Universal Orlando had a lot for toddlers to do and some of the best playgrounds? You would probably think I had lost my mind, but as a theme park enthusiast and mom of twins who have essentially grown up at the parks, I am here to tell you it is absolutely true!

While I would agree that Universal Orlando isn’t the most BABY friendly, it is definitely TODDLER friendly. In my opinion the best time to start taking your kids to Universal Orlando doesn’t have so much to do with age, but with height. Starting at 36 inches a lot of possibilities open up for kids in the world of Universal. I am here to coach you on all of the must see and do attractions when taking tiny ones to both Universal Orlando and Islands of Adventure!

Adventure Awaits at Islands of Adventure

tackling universal with toddlers

Islands of Adventure is home to so many thrilling attractions that it is easy to overlook all of the attractions for little ones! At Islands of Adventure you can enter the world of huge blockbuster hits and classic stories we all know and love. Islands of Adventure is broken up into different lands, but my favorites for kids are Jurassic Park, Seuss Landing, and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Hogsmeade. Let’s break it down by section so you have all the know on what your tiny ones might want to experience.

Step in to the Movies at Universal Orlando

Kids and Adults alike can experience an epic time based on beloved films and series!

While the Universal Orlando side is going to have fewer attractions for kids than Islands of Adventure, it still has a lot to do! Universal Orlando takes the movies to new heights and is just getting started as it has several new family attractions coming soon. My best advice is to get the park-to-park pass so you can experience both sides and all the family-friendly fun!

Understanding Which Rides to Skip

One common misconception about the height requirements at any theme park is that they indicate a level of appropriateness when it comes to who can ride. This, however is not the case. The height requirement is only what is required for PHYSICAL safety on the ride. Whether a child can handle it or should experience the attraction is going to be completely up to the parent or guardian. In the lists provided, I mentioned attractions that I think are pretty toddler- safe, meaning most kids won’t have an issue on these or be scared by them, but there are other attractions not mentioned there that have a lower height requirement.

When entering a ride, always take a look at the warning signs so you know what to expect from the attraction. These signs will indicate the intensity of the attraction and will often say things like “loud noises”, “dark spaces”, or “sudden stops”. These are all good indicators that the attraction may be  too intense for smaller riders, despite the height requirement. I want to attach a list of rides that have  lower height requirements, but do feature more intense elements.

  • Transformers: the Ride 3-D (40 inches)
  • Men in Black Alien Attack (42 inches)
  • Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts (42 inches)
  • Fast & Furious- Supercharged (40 inches)
  • Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon (40 inches)
  • The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man (40 inches)
  • Skull Island: Reign of Kong (36 inches)

Universal is the Place to Be for Fun as a Family!

Universal is a place for everyone to have fun, regardless of their age. If you have been doubtful about taking tiny ones to Universal, let this guide be your sign from the Universe to go and have the ultimate day of fun at Universal Orlando! To keep up with the rest of our theme park tips, make sure you keep up with our theme park guide so you never miss a beat.

Curated by

Florida Living and Exploring | Twin Mom | Theme Park Enthusiast | Experiencing Everything Life Has to Offer with Toddlers...

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