Universal’s Islands of Adventure

Photo by David De Vos
Photo by David De Vos
Photo by Tara Harrison
Photo by Brynne
Photo by Brynne


Across this theme park’s five islands, experience the magic of Harry Potter™, the danger of Jurassic Park®, the heroics of Marvel superheroes and more.  

As the name suggests, Universal's Islands of Adventure® is a magnet for adventure lovers. Each of its five islands features thrilling rides. This is a favourite destination among visitors to Florida’s Universal Orlando® Resort. From the magical world of Harry Potter™ to prehistoric lands of Jurassic Park®, get ready for an unforgettable experience.

Start your day at the Port of Entry®. Its towering centerpiece, the Lighthouse, beckons visitors night or day. This area has no rides but is a great place for shopping or having a snack.

Find your inner superhero at Marvel Super Hero Island®. Get your blood pumping on The Incredible Hulk Coaster®. Help vanquish villains in 3-D at The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man® thrill ride. During the daily superhero parade, meet your favourite Marvel characters.

Splash in the water-themed rides of Toon Lagoon®. Tumble down the log flume in Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls®. Hop aboard Popeye and Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges® on a river rafting mission to rescue Olive.

Prehistory meets the present in Jurassic Park Discovery Centre®. This island is modelled after the theme park in the original Jurassic Park® film. As you enjoy its roller coasters and water rides, you’ll meet Triceratops, Tyrannosaurus rex and other dinosaurs.

If you have read the Harry Potter™ books and anxiously waited for your letter from Hogwarts™, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ makes that dream a reality. Race through Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™ or sample a butterbeer in Hogsmeade™ village. From the outside, the hulking stone Hogwarts™ castle looks as if it’s been here for centuries. Inside, its roller coasters, games and other attractions bring the books to life. For speedy admission to the rides, arrive early in the day.

The Lost Continent® brings ancient myths to life. Brave Poseidon’s Fury® and watch The Eighth Voyage of Sindbad® Stunt Show. Children of all ages love Seuss Landing™. Rides, restaurants and live shows recreate the world imagined by Dr. Seuss.

Universal's Islands of Adventure® is open 365 days a year. Take a short drive to Universal Studios’ other theme parks, Wet ‘n Wild® and Universal Studios Florida®.

Reviews of Universal’s Islands of Adventure

4.6
Top destination
5 - Excellent
134
5 - Excellent 67%
4 - Good
55
4 - Good 27%
3 - Okay
10
3 - Okay 5%
2 - Disappointing
2
2 - Disappointing 1%
1 - Terrible
0
1 - Terrible 0%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Hagridd ride is excellent

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller

Avoid thew new Hagrid ride - 3 hour queues and the ride breaksdown constantly.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Get there for 8.15 and go straight to Hagrids motorcycle ride if you want to avoid a 3 hour queue

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller

Go in the morning... Especially if visiting in July and August. You have to appreciate in these months there are daily thunderstorms and this can shut down the outside rides and potentially be scary for kids. They usually happen between 4pm and 7pm so I would suggest to plan your evening meal around the weather so as not to ruin your day 

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Things to do near Universal’s Islands of Adventure

Universal’s Islands of Adventure offers a range of thrilling activities for visitors, including exciting adult rides and adventurous attractions perfect for adrenaline junkies. Guests can also explore the entertainment options at the Universal Aventura Hotel, featuring shopping and theatre experiences. Whether seeking a heart-pounding adventure or a leisurely day of exploration, there's something for everyone at this captivating destination.

Shopping

The nearest shopping destination is Orlando International Premium Outlets, just 1.6km away, offering a vibrant mix of entertainment and family-friendly vibes. For a bit more variety, Florida Mall is 8.0km away, while Mall at Millenia is 4.8km from the park, both providing excellent shopping experiences.

Recreation

Explore the Kia Center for a vibrant sports atmosphere, perfect for fitness enthusiasts. Enjoy a round at Shingle Creek Golf Course, surrounded by picturesque landscapes, or challenge your family at Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf, where adventure meets fun in a lively setting.

Adventure

Universal’s Volcano Bay, a thrilling waterpark 1.1km from Universal’s Islands of Adventure, offers exhilarating water rides and relaxation areas. For a unique experience, iFly Orlando, located 1.1km away, lets you enjoy indoor skydiving. Additionally, the Lake Cane Tennis Center, 1.6km away, provides adventurous tennis activities.

Nightlife

At Universal’s Islands of Adventure, the nightlife buzzes with excitement. The Orlando Eye at ICON Park, a stunning ferris wheel, offers breathtaking views. Nearby, Wonderworks invites you to a whimsical arcade adventure, while Sleuth's Mystery Dinner Show combines culture and entertainment for a delightful family evening.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Universal’s Islands of Adventure

Within and around Universal’s Islands of Adventure, visitors can enjoy a vibrant mix of attractions, including thrilling theme parks, serene lakes, and engaging arts centres. This diverse selection caters to those seeking cultural experiences, family-friendly activities, and outdoor adventures, ensuring a memorable holiday for all. Whether you're exploring imaginative rides or relaxing by the water, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

  • Universal Studios Florida: Experience the magic of movies at this thrilling theme park, located a mere 644m from Islands of Adventure. With exciting rides and attractions themed around your favourite films, it's perfect for family entertainment and unforgettable memories.
  • Orange County Convention Center: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Orlando at this arts centre, situated 4.8km away. Hosting various events, exhibitions, and conventions, it showcases the artistic flair of the region and offers a glimpse into local creativity.
  • Universal CityWalk: Just 644m from Islands of Adventure, this lively tourist precinct features a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere with outdoor spaces that make it ideal for relaxation and fun.

Best time to go to Universal’s Islands of Adventure

The best time to visit Universal’s Islands of Adventure is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January60.6°F (15.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
February64.4°F (18.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March67.6°F (19.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April72.7°F (22.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
May77.2°F (25.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June81.1°F (27.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July82.4°F (28.0°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August82.6°F (28.1°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
September80.4°F (26.9°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
October75.2°F (24.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
November68.5°F (20.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December64.4°F (18.0°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Universal’s Islands of Adventure

To save money on your trip to Universal’s Islands of Adventure, consider visiting during the cheaper months of August to September and November. Book your hotel at least one month in advance for the best rates, and look for last-minute deals on Expedia. Tuesdays are typically the least expensive days to stay, while Saturdays are the most costly. Utilise Expedia’s tools to filter for budget accommodations and consider package deals for flights and activities. Don’t forget to check for free cancellation options to ensure flexibility in your plans.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Universal’s Islands of Adventure are August to September and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Universal’s Islands of Adventure is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Universal’s Islands of Adventure is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Universal’s Islands of Adventure is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To uncover the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially reduce your expenses by combining your hotel reservation for Universal’s Islands of Adventure with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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