Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
tination. Behind closed doors,however,thetwocompanies shareaPepsi-versus-Coke
rivalry that keeps both working hard to gain a competitive edge. The good news is
that all this translates into better and better attractions for you to enjoy.
BEWARE OF THE WET AND WILD
LILIANE
Consider yourself warned: Several attractions at Islands of Ad-
venture will drench you to the bone.
ALTHOUGH WE HAVE DESCRIBED
Universal's Islands of Adventure as a direct compet-
itor to the Magic Kingdom, there is one major qualification you should be aware of:
Whereas most Magic Kingdom attractions are designed to be enjoyed by guests of
any age, attractions at Islands of Adventure are largely created for an under-40 pop-
ulation. The roller coasters at Universal are serious with a capital
S
, making Space
Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain look about as tough as Dumbo. In fact, seven
out of the nine top attractions at Islands are thrill rides, and of these, there are three
that not only scare the bejeepers out of you but also drench you with water.
For families, there are three interactive playgrounds as well as six rides that
young children will enjoy. Of the thrill rides, only the two in Toon Lagoon (described
later) are marginally appropriate for little kids, and even on these rides your child
needs to be fairly hardy.
GETTING ORIENTED AT ISLANDS OF
ADVENTURE
BOTH UNIVERSAL THEME PARKS
are accessed via the Universal CityWalk entertain-
ment complex. Crossing CityWalk from the parking garages, you can bear right to
Universal Studios Florida or left to Universal's Islands of Adventure.
