Traveling to any theme park with toddlers, and babies can be an overwhelming thought, especially a theme park like Universal Orlando that is not “meant for little ones”. Thankfully it doesn’t have to be a challenging day. With the following tips and tricks, we are here to help make your next Universal trip a fun one for the WHOLE family!
Universal Orlando theme parks are known for their thrills and sometimes chills as you explore attractions like Revenge of the Mummy or the Horror Make-Up Show. Magical Experiences through The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, or whimsical Seuss Landing for the kids or kids at heart. But what is there to ride for the little ones? Unfortunately not much. What do parents do that want to ride? Or families that have big kids, and babies? Thankfully Universal Orlando Parks has thought of that, and there is many ways to still enjoy Universal even when traveling with those tiny tots that are not quite big enough to ride anything.
Don’t worry- those littles under 3 are free to enter and free to enjoy the many shows, and experiences that do not require them to be a bit bigger!
Getting Around
First things first, you’ll need a plan on how you are going to get that little one around the parks all day. Unlike other Orlando area theme parks, there is not a size or stroller-type regulation at Universal Orlando or Islands of Adventure. You can also rent a stroller at both parks. However, strollers can not be taken in shows, or line queues as you are waiting for Rider Swap, so for those young toddlers or little babies we do recommend a baby carrier of some sort.
Rider Swap Areas
All of the rides at Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure accommodate a system called Child Swap, also known as Kid Swap or Baby Swap. This allows younger guests to skip a ride (either because they are not tall enough or they do not want to go) and gives everyone else at the party an opportunity to ride the attraction without having to go through the queue all over again. To use the system, let the attendant at the front of the ride’s entrance that you would like to use Child Swap. It is important to ask before you enter the queue because each attraction handles Child Swap a little differently. Some have separate rooms, others have general areas, and a few may have a separate line depending on how busy the parks are when you visit.
Newer rides such as The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man or Fast & Furious – Supercharged have themed Child Sawp waiting areas.
Things they CAN do
Universal Studios Orlando and Islands of Adventure have plenty to offer beyond rides. From shows, to character meet & greets, and play areas there are tons to do for the little ones tagging along on your Universal Orlando day. There’s one ride for littles in Universal Studios that you never have to worry about a height requirement for – Hogwarts Express. A way to get back and forth from Diagon Alley to Hogsmeade in Islands of Adventure, the trip has different scenery depending on which way you’re going. In Universal, there are also shows like, Animal Actors on Location. An adorable live show with actual movie and television animal stars. There has previously been a kids-only area that was recently removed for new projects, and we are patiently waiting to see what will happen next!
Islands of Adventure has Seuss Landing. There you’ll find the many stories of Dr, Seuss that have come to life for the young or young at heart looking to explore. 2 rides in this area can accommodate the under 3 crowd. Caro-Seuss-el and One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish. There is also a show- Oh! The Stories You’ll Hear!
Don’t forget the characters’ meet & greets! You can have a chance to meet many of your favorite friends from Trolls, Spongebob & Friends, Bumblebee, and many more!
Baby Care Areas
Nursing rooms/baby care areas are a wonderful resource to use when at the parks with your infant. Each room has a rocking chair, dimmable lighting, changing station, plugs, and a small microwave. These facilities are available in the First Aid Station at Family Services, located to the right of the Lost And Found in Universal Studios Orlando, at the Health Services main station, located on Canal Street in the New York area, in the First Aid Station at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, and in the First Aid Station at Universal’s Volcano Bay. You can also find baby diaper changing stations in all park restrooms, as well as extra accommodations in the family restrooms.
What to bring
It is easy to question why tiny humans need so much stuff, and just when you think it can’t get any worse- you go on vacation with your tiny humans. While having an extra bag can seem inconvenient at times, it is worth having a few extra things with you just in case! The following are a few theme park must-haves when traveling with babies and toddlers.
- Stroller/Baby Carrier
- Snacks & Drinks
- Hat & Sunscreen
- Change of clothes
- Stroller Fan
- Baby Headphones
- Well Stocked Diaper Bag- wipes & diapers
- Light Jacket/Blanket
- Rechargeable Battery Pack
With any trip with little ones, it is important to keep an open mind to a change in the game plan as needed. Taking advantage of resources provided by Universal Orlando parks for young ones like Rider Swap or Nursing Room, creating a plan of attractions your littles CAN do, and keeping everyone hydrated is my top priority whenever we travel to Universal Parks. Creating memories with your family that will last a lifetime always makes it worth taking those little ones along!
Contact one of our Travel Ease Universal theme park travel advisors today for help in planning your next Universal trip with your kids of all ages!