Universal Studios Orlando for Toddlers: A Helpful Guide for Families with Smaller Children
Navigating Orlando theme parks can be tricky, especially when you add toddlers or smaller children to the mix. Which theme parks are better for littles? Which parks will get you the most bang for your buck? Family vacations are not easy on the wallet these days, so making the right decision can be stressful.
As you quickly run down all the obvious answers in your head, you may land on Walt Disney World, specifically Magic Kingdom, especially if you are traveling with toddlers. But don’t overlook that other huge theme park in Orlando, Universal Studios. Without giving it a fair assessment, you might be losing out on a big vacation opportunity!
There are sections of Universal Studios Orlando geared specifically for toddlers and smaller children that many may not even be aware of, and that’s what we’ll get into in this article. I want to provide you with all of the options for you and your toddler so you can make the most informed decision before booking your next vacation.
I will admit, I do not have small children. But, I have a bitty-sized niece and nephew, and many friends who have children. So I do know a thing or two about visiting theme parks with smaller children.
One piece of advice I will give before getting into the list of attractions is to know your child and what he/she likes and dislikes. In the post below, I will list all possible activities at Universal Orlando for toddlers, but there may be some that aren’t your kid’s speed, and that’s ok! There are plenty of options to choose from, but knowing what your kid will enjoy is key. Focus on those areas and you’ll have a great time!
I will also mention that while I think Universal Studios Orlando offers awesome options for kids, some of the attractions are very dated (in my opinion). Unless I’m really off the mark, Woody Woodpecker, Curious George, and Fievel are not mainstay characters these days. Even E.T had his own place and time. These attractions and play areas are wonderful for children, but the characters may not be as recognizable to them as to the adults.
Let’s explore what Universal Studios Orlando has for toddlers!
Woody Woodpecker KidZone
Within this one-defined area at Universal Studios are so many wonderful choices for toddlers and parents. There isn’t one thing in this space that you will need to question or wonder if it’s appropriate for your littles.
- Woody Woodpecker’s Nuthouse Coaster is a short, low impact roller coaster meant to introduce little kids to this type of amusement park attraction. If you are familiar with the Barnstormer coaster in Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World, this will look and feel exactly the same. The ride lasts about one minute and is a great thrill ride for the little ones.
- Animal Actors on Location is a live animal show featuring dogs, birds, pigs and a menagerie of other animals. The host or hostess shows the audience how animals are trained and positively reinforced for their good behavior. The 25-minute show often uses audience members throughout (mostly children), so be sure to raise your hand if you want to participate! Kids of all ages love this show.
- Curious George Goes to Town is an open play area great for small children. If your kids (or you) love to get wet, this is the place to be with numerous pipes, spigots and spray guns to get you soaked. Be sure to bring along a change of clothes! There is a dry area for those kids who prefer not to get wet.
- E.T. Adventure has been around since the park’s opening day. Based on the movie from 1982, take a wild adventure with E.T. to his home planet. This ride is dated for sure, but still a hit with toddler and younger children.
- Fievel’s Playland is another open play area in this section of the park. Based on the 1986 movie Fievel An American Tail, this play area is great for toddlers. Giant sized structures and items blanket the play area for kids to climb under, over and inside. There is also a 3-story water slide that kids love!
Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem
This simulator attraction is synced with a cartoon projected on an IMAX-like screen using 3-D technology. If you are a big fan of those cute little yellow Minions, you and your toddler will love this ride! Note for this attraction, stationary seating is available for those prone to motion sickness and for children less than 40 inches tall.
Hogwarts Express – King’s Cross Station (Diagon Alley)
Considered more an attraction than just transportation between Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, this interactive train ride is a thrill for any Harry Potter fan and is great for all ages. Lines generally move quickly but can build mid-afternoon. Keep this in mind if you have toddlers that don’t like to wait in line too long! Not every attraction or activity in Diagon Alley may be for toddlers and they may not be up to speed on every Harry Potter adventure, but Diagon Alley is worth a visit.
Kang & Kodos Twirl ‘n’ Hurl
Welcome to Springfield! Home of the Simpsons. Familiar with Dumbo the Flying Elephant attraction at Walt Disney World? This is the exact same attraction with Bart Simpson’s humor. Little kids love it, but like many similar attractions, the loading time is slow, making wait times longer. Toddlers may not understand the jokes, but they will still enjoy the ride.
Honorable Mention: Parades
Who doesn’t love a good parade!? It is such a great way to see all your favorite characters and dance to fun music! There are several parades at Universal Studios throughout the year (Mardi Gras parade, Macy’s Holiday parade, etc.). Children of all ages enjoy these parades, but toddlers and young children absolutely adore them! The sights, sounds, color, etc… are perfect for them to laugh, dance, and sing with all of their favorite characters! Be sure to check the entertainment guide for the full schedule when you visit.
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