Things To Do in Universal Studios Florida

Age Appropriate Rides/Shows

Here, as in Walt Disney World, height and age restrictions aren't bent to accommodate a screaming child. Even where restrictions don't exist, some shows have loud music and pyrotechnics that can scare young kids. Check the attraction descriptions that follow to make sure your child won't be unduly disappointed or frightened.

Overall, Universal Studios does a much better job in the way of entertaining its guests while they wait in line for the attractions (though recent upgrades at Disney have ensured there are a few notable exceptions). Many have preshows or TV screens with previews or introductions to the attractions.

They've also got it all over the House of Mouse when it comes to beating the sun -- many of the attractions here have waiting areas under some sort of cover or, in some cases, indoors (unless the line is so long that it extends beyond these areas, which it sometimes does in the busiest seasons). It is also exponentially easier to get from your car (or resort) to the parks. From the parking lot, if you have kids and all of the gear that comes with them, pack your stroller and bring it along -- you will be able to walk directly to the parks, though it can be a long haul for small feet (and there are no trams from the parking decks to the theme parks).

Elevators, moving sidewalks, and covered walkways will take you up to the entrance of CityWalk. And, if you're staying at a Universal resort, you'll be glad to know that all three resorts are relatively close by and are serviced by a water taxi that'll drop you off in CityWalk (and the Hard Rock is within walking distance). I'm not saying that you will not have to wait at all -- it can take several minutes -- but not nearly as long as some trips at Disney can.

Every major attraction has a theme store attached, many of them selling unique merchandise. Although the prices are high when you consider you're just buying a souvenir, the Hard Rock Cafe shop in adjacent CityWalk is popular and has a small but diverse selection of Hard Rock everything (including memorabilia with astronomical sticker prices). For just about everything else a la Universal, the Universal Studios Store carries a decent selection of toys, T-shirts, and souvenirs.

More than two dozen other shops in the park sell collectibles. Be warned, though, that unlike Walt Disney World, where Mickey is everywhere, Universal's shops are specific to individual attractions. If you see something you like, buy it; you probably won't find it in another store. If you did forget to pick something up, there's a shop-by-phone service -- call 407/224-5800, describe the item and where you think you saw it, and the likelihood is they'll be able to help you out. There is also a Universal store at Orlando International Airport, but it mainly carries the usual souvenirs.

At Universal, you can have your purchases delivered to It's a Wrap at the front of the park so you don't have to schlep that 5-foot-tall E.T. around the park with you. Allow at least 3 hours for delivery.

International Drive Area -- (locally, this road is almost always referred to as I-Drive.) Extending 8 or so miles northeast of Disney between Highway 535 and the Florida Turnpike, this busy thoroughfare is one of the most popular tourist districts in the area, in part because it is filled with so many restaurants, shops, hotels, and attractions. From indoor skydiving and glow-in-the-dark golf to dozens of themed restaurants and shopping spots, this is the tourist strip in Central Florida. Its two main shopping draws are the Orlando Premium Outlets-Vineland Avenue, just off south I-Drive , and the Orlando Premium Outlets-International Drive (previously Prime Outlets Orlando), located at the northernmost end of I-Drive . Another I-Drive shopping spot, Pointe Orlando (407/248-2838; www.pointeorlandofl.com), features an ever-growing collection of upscale restaurants, clubs, and specialty shops in an outdoor setting. Thanks to extensive renovations, the completely re-created space includes winding walkways, shaded courtyards, fountains, and inviting lighting.

Great Buys at Universal Studios Florida

Here's a sampling of the more unusual gifts available at some of the Universal stores. Of course, in addition to these options, you can find the standard tourist fare, with a staggering array of mugs, key chains, T-shirts, and the like. I've tried to include things you wouldn't find (or consider buying) anywhere else.

• E.T.'s Toy Closet and Photo Spot -- This is the place for plush stuffed animals, including a replica of the alien namesake.
• MIB Gear -- If you find yourself in need of a ray gun or alien blaster, this is the place to buy everything out of this world.
• Universal Studios Store -- This store, near the entrance, sells just about everything when it comes to Universal apparel, and there are plenty of toys and trinkets as well. Logo blankets (made of supersoft jersey -- think comfy sweatshirt) are one of the more useful souvenirs sold here.