Disney or Universal? What will you choose?

Many visitors to Orlando seem to have the misconception that the Walt Disney World theme parks are targeted towards families with younger children and that Universal is more for teenagers and young adults. In actuality both Disney and Universal have something to offer for thrill seekers of all ages. Follow us on our breakdown of all 6 of the Disney theme parks and the three Universal Orlando parks, we will even give some invaluable advice on what tickets are available.

 

Walt Disney World Theme Parks

The obvious place to start is Disney’s Magic Kingdom, home to its iconic castle and featuring a number of Orlando’s classic attractions, such as Space Mountain and Splash Mountain, not to forget the legendary character parades and enchanting firework displays that take place here. Many of the rides throughout the Disney parks have no height restrictions but this is not to say that visitors of all ages won’t enjoy them.



Arguably Disney’s most innovative park is Epcot, characterised by its vast selection of interactive and educational attractions, designed in the 2 realms of Future World and World Showcase. A place where attractions meet your favourite Hollywood films can be found at Hollywood Studios, home to a number of award winning simulator attractions as well as some of Disney’s jaw dropping thrill rides, including the Tower of Terror. Or for a completely unique experience, Disney’s Animal Kingdom is a must see, with over 1,700 animals to interact with, as well as high-speed thrills and jungle trails to explore.



If you’ve had enough of land activities, Disney’s 2 waterparks are certain to keep you entertained for a couple of days at least. Typhoon lagoon offers guests the opportunity to swim with sharks, unwind on one of its white sandy beaches and relax along its lazy river. Then there’s Blizzard beach, offering aquatic lovers some of Orlando’s fastest and tallest water slides, exhilarating wave pools and a fantastic selection of family raft attractions.



 

Universal Orlando Resort Theme Parks

Once only comprising of one park in Orlando, but now containing Universal Studios, Universal’s Island of Adventure and Wet ‘n Wild water park has led to Universal becoming a major rival of Disney. At universal Studios you can step into the screen of some of your favourite films, such as Transformers the Ride 3D, intertwined with start-of-the-art rides at this working TV and movie theme park.



Then there is the hugely popular Islands of Adventure theme park; your very own personal playground. Unquestionably the most popular attraction here is the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, found nowhere else in the world and is scheduled to expand later in 2014. Other must see attractions include The Amazing Adventures of Spiderman ride, the Incredible Hulk Coaster, as well as gripping shows and parades such as the super-hero parade.



Your final stop off is Universal’s Wet ‘n Wild water park, arguably Orlando’s most popular water park, situated only minutes away from Universal Orlando. This park is excellent in offering a selection of high speed thrill rides such as Brain Wash and the Flyer as well as multi-person rides, which are ideal for families. Visit Blastaway Beach (the largest water area for families in Florida) and explore its 15 slides, 160 soakers and a 60 foot sandcastle.



 

Walt Disney World & Universal Attraction Tickets

Of course there is the option to purchase Disney and Universal tickets separately. For Disney you can select 7 day, 14 day & 21 day premium tickets (starting at £280 for adults) allowing guest’s unlimited access to the Disney parks for the duration of their ticket. Or for Universal you can select a 2 Park or 3 Park Bonus Ticket (starting at £118 for adults).

 

However, why not combine both Disney and Universal on your Orlando holiday to explore the best of both of these magical and futuristic worlds. Tickets such as the Disney & Universal Combo Pass (£405 for adults) or an Orlando Freedom Ticket (£490 for adults) allows you to do just this; commonly a much more cost effective way of purchasing attraction tickets.

 

Top tip: Always purchase your Orlando theme park and attraction tickets before you travel to save time and money