Universal Studios Florida has been taking guests behind the scenes and straight into some of the greatest movies and TV shows since opening in 1990. Over the years, classic attractions like Jaws and Back to the Future have been removed, but only to make way for bigger and better things, continuing Universal Orlando’s dedication to updating and innovating with their latest attractions.

Universal Studios Florida is not a normal theme park by any means. Most of the park still retains the feeling that it’s an actual working movie and television studio whether you’re walking past the soundstages of Production Central or on the backlot sets of Hollywood and New York. The secret is in the immersion. Each area of the park envelops you in the world they have created. Sure, the streets of San Francisco isn’t as exciting and impressive as stepping into The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley, but each location has a realism that helps transport you to the different worlds.

If you’re looking for thrills, you’re in luck. Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, Revenge of the Mummy, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, and TRANSFORMERS: The Ride-3D.  Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, E.T. Adventure, and MEN IN BLACK Alien Attack will have the whole family having a blast. Entertainment like The Blues Brothers Shows, Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees, and Universal Orlando’s Horror Make-Up Show showcase that the park has more to offer than just rides.

The entire park isn’t made of gold. Some attractions like Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon and Fast and Furious – Supercharged could be skipped and you wouldn’t miss a thing. That’s just one person’s opinion though – you might feel differently!

Dining is also a critical part of your day at Universal Studios Florida! You can’t go wrong with grabbing a bite at Leaky Cauldron inside Diagon Alley or a quick sandwich or salad at TODAY Cafe. If you have some extra time, you can sit down for a bit at Finnegan’s Bar & Grill and enjoy a pint. You might be tempted by restaurants like Mel’s Drive-In and Louie’s Italian Restaurant, but I’d keep walking. You won’t have the worst meal of your life, but there are better options. My favorite? A Duff Beer in Springfield with tacos from Bumblebee Man’s Taco Truck. Just save room for dessert and specialty drinks around the park!

There are plenty of shopportunities inside Universal Studios Florida. The Universal Studios Store at the front of the park has you covered on the essentials, but explore other shops throughout the park for more. You can never go wrong with the amount of shopping inside The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley. The Film Vault is a go-to spot for Universal movie buffs, but Williams of Hollywood is home to props actually used at Universal Orlando Resort! Who wouldn’t want to take home a piece of the magic. Even the Hello Kitty shop is adorable, but totally not my style.

Rides, entertainment, dining, and shopping. Universal Studios Florida has it all and more!

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