Universal Studios Islands of Adventure

Universal Studios Islands of Adventure is part of Universal Studios Florida, but it’s really a park in its own right. So what’s the difference between the two Central Florida theme parks?

Harry Potter, for one. Dragons are another.

Here’s a little more about what makes Islands of Adventure so different from the well-known Universal Studios Florida.

The Thrill of it All

The biggest difference between the two parks is in the amount of thrill rides. Islands of Adventure is chock-full of roller-coasters and rides where you experience the picture like you were in it – Spiderman and Harry Potter are just two examples.

I did mention roller coasters, and there are two rather large ones — The Incredible Hulk Coaster and Dragon Challenge. Plus, there’s a “Doctor Doom’s Fearfall” which is one of those where-did-the-floor-go straight down rides.

Show Me!

There are shows at Islands of Adventure; just not as many as at Universal Studios proper. The three main shows are The Eight Voyage of Sinbad, Oh! The Stories You’ll Hear and Poseidon’s Fury (a special effects show).

Where’s Lunch?

The two parks aren’t that different in this respect — eating lunch or dinner. Both have table service and fast-food (excuse me, “quick service”) restaurants.

There is one difference, however. Mythos Restaurant has some of the best food at any theme park — anywhere! It is of course table service, in the fine dining category — but for lunch only. Call for reservations, because it’s super-popular.