Kid Friendly Attractions at the Universal Orlando Theme Parks

Unlike its neighbor to the south (Walt Disney World), the theme parks at the Universal Orlando Resort are better known for their “thrill” rides and attractions as well as its less family-friendly events like Halloween Horror Nights.  So if you have children ages 12 and under, should you not consider Universal Orlando for your family vacation destination?

The answer is that you should definitely consider Universal as your families vacation destination.  There is so much to do for younger children and families that it just might take a few days to accomplish it all.

One of the best thing about the Universal Orlando Resort is that its two parks, Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, are located right next to one another.  You can “park hop” without having to get in your car or wait for another type of transportation – it’s a quick walk from one front entrance to the other.  Therefore, all the “kid” rides and things to do are within one place.  

There are individual kid centered areas at Universal, one of which is featured in each of the two parks. Universal Studios Orlando features DreamWorks Land while there is Seuss Landing in Islands of Adventure (which is themed after the stories of Dr. Seuss).

Following is a summary of all the great family-friendly rides, attractions, shows, experiences and spectaculars you can expect from your visit to Universal.  You will find that there is more than enough to do for families with young children.

Kid Friendly Rides and Attractions

The Universal theme parks have a wide range of kid friendly rides and attractions that are perfect for children 12 and under.  Following is a summary of each individual ride. 

Cat in the Hat ride

As you enter Seuss Landing in Islands of Adventure you are greeted by an extra large red and white hat which is your first sign of the Cat in the Hat ride.  Take a ride with the Cat and experience a fun filled adventure with Thing 1 and Thing 2.

Despicable Me Minion Mayhem

If you child loves the Despicable Me movies and the minions, then this ride is perfect for them.  Ride along with Gru, the girls and the minions on a crazy adventures.  This is a motion simulator which can get a little bouncy but there is also stationary seating in the first row.

This ride is located in Production Central within Universal Studios Florida and is one the first rides after the front gate. 

One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish

One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish is an aerial carousel-style ride where you can control when your fish goes up and down.  Be careful not to get wet as you go round and round. 

This ride is located in Seuss Landing within Universal’s Islands of Adventure.

The High in the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride

The Seuss Trolley Train ride is one of our favorites and gives the best view of the not only Seuss Landing but of almost the entire park.   Your ride above Seuss Landing is based on the story of Dr. Seuss’ Sneetches.

This ride is located in Seuss Landing within Universal’s Islands of Adventure.

Caro-Seussel

The Caro-Seussel is a good old fashioned style merry-go-round, just with a Dr. Seuss theme.  All the “horses” as characters from the story lines.  This ride is located in Seuss Landing within Islands of Adventure.

Flight of the Hippogriff

The Flight of the Hippogriff is a Harry Potter themed family-friendly roller coaster.  It’s a perfect coaster for first timers as it does not have any inversions and limited drops.  Say hello to Buckbeak for us.

This ride is located in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade within Islands of Adventure.

Hogswarts Express at Hogsmeade Station / Kings Cross Station

Pass through Platform 9 3/4 and hop on the Hogwarts Express train ride from either Hogsmeade Station in Islands of Adventure or Kings Cross Station in Universal Studios Florida.  You will join Harry, Hermoine and Ron as they make their journey as you travel from one park to the other.

Important note: This ride requires a park-to-park pass since you board at one park and disembark form another.

Pterandon Flyers

One of the best kid friendly rides in Islands of Adventure, you will fly high above Jurassic Park in this two person ride.  Important note: You will need a child with a height between 36 and 56 inches to.  Two persons above 56 inches will not be allowed to ride.

Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges

You are going to get wet on this white water raft ride that is themed after the Popeye cartoon.  This is the perfect ride to do on a hot summer day in central Florida – just make sure your belongings remain fully covered.

This ride is located in Toon Lagoon within Islands of Adventure.

Storm Force Accelatron

Storm Force Accelatron is a high speed version of a spinning tea cups type of ride; and also with X-Men theming.   The riders can spin the ride car as fast or slow as they would like.

Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon

We would never though of the Race Through New York Starring Fallon as a good kid ride until we took a family member who is an eight year old boy.  Needless to say, this is now his favorite attraction in the park.  You will race Jimmy through the streets of New York in this hilarious and action packed attraction.

This attraction is located in the New York area within Universal Studios Florida.

Trolls’ Trollercoaster

This family-friendly roller coaster is perfect for the first time riders.   This ride is located at DreamWorks Land within Universal Studios Florida.

The ET Adventure

The ET Adventure is a classic and one of the best rides at Universal.  You will travel with ET through space to save his home planet.

This ride is located at the Woody Woodpecker’s Kid Zone within Universal Studios Florida.

Kang & Kodo’s Twirl ‘n’ Hurl

Kang & Kodo’s is another aerial carousel-style ride that is themed after The Simpsons television show.  You control when your spaceship goes up and down on this fun ride which has a Simpsons twist.

This ride is located in the Springfield area within Universal Studios Florida. 

Other Rides

If you have kids that are adventurous and love more thrilling rides, have them also try:

• Men in Black Alien Attack
• Transformers: The Ride 3-D
• Jurassic Park River Adventure
• Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls
• The Simpsons Ride
• Villain-Con Minion Blast

Learn about these rides and more by checking out our Definitive Guides to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. 

Themed Play Areas

Both Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure have a number of themed play areas for kids of all ages to run around and just have a good time.

If I Ran the Zoo

Located in Seuss Landing within Islands of Adventure, this interactive playground is themed after the story of Gerald McGrew from the Dr. Seuss books.

Kung Fu Panda Village

Join Po in Kung Fu Panda Village which features a water playground known as Po’s Kung Fu Training Camp. This playground will include water cannons, dump buckets and other features where guests can cool off from the Florida heat.  There is even a carousel themed after Mr. Ping’s Noodle Shop.

And for those looking for more action, they can join the Panda arm in Po Live!  This digitally based attraction is an interactive meet & greet where guests can talk to Po and learn the secrets of being a Dragon Warrior.

Jurassic Park Discovery Center

This two-story facility is part playground and part entertainment/education.  Learn about fossils and our planets past as well as check out baby dinosaurs up close and personal.  If you get there are the right time then your kids may even see a dinosaur hatch from an egg.

The Jurassic Park Discovery Center is located in the Jurassic Park section of Islands of Adventure.

Camp Jurassic

One of the most fun play areas in Universal, Camp Jurassic features caves, themed slides, nets, suspension bridges and water cannons.  It is fun for big kids (adults) as well as the younger ones.  The water cannons make for a refreshing break on a hot summer day in central Florida.

Camp Jurassic is located in the Jurassic Park section of Islands of Adventure just adjacent to the entrance to the Pteranodon Flyers ride.

Me Ship, The Olive

Located just behind the Bilge-Rat Barges in Islands of Adventure, this playground is a multi-story themed ship with play areas, slides and water cannons to soak the riders below that are on the barges.

Shrek’s Swamp

Shrek’s Swamp at DreamWorks Land in Universal Studios Florida is an enchanting and interactive area where guests can immerse themselves in the whimsical world of Shrek. This themed zone features playful elements such as climbing structures, water play areas, and detailed recreations of Shrek’s iconic home.

Parades and Shows

Universal host’s some of the best parades and shows throughout all of the Orlando area theme parks.  The main parade is very character focused and runs every single day at Universal Studios Florida.

Universal’s Mega Movie Parade

Universal Orlando Resort has unveiled its largest and most spectacular daytime parade yet, the Universal Mega Movie Parade. This highly-anticipated event boasts an impressive lineup of floats and performers, including dancers, skaters, and stilt walkers. Guests can expect to be mesmerized by the mix of special effects and captivating performances as fan-favorite films leap off the screen and come to life on the streets of Universal Studios Florida.

Kicking off every evening at 6 p.m., this parade promises an immersive experience, celebrating iconic movies such as Jurassic World, Ghostbusters, and Illumination’s Minions. Starting and ending at the gates next to Universal Orlando’s Horror Make-Up Show, the parade loops through the park’s Hollywood section, offering numerous opportunities for guests to catch a glimpse of their beloved characters.

The Blues Brothers

You will see Jake and Elwood Blues of the Blues Brothers driving around Universal Studios Florida in a former police car.   Their rhythm and blues show features some of their best hits.

Located in the New York section, showtimes vary to make sure you check the schedule for the day.

Frog Choir and the Tri-wizard Spirit Rally

You will find shows daily just outside Hogwarts Castle in Islands of Adventure of both the Frog Choir and the Tri-wizard Spirit Rally.  If you find yourself there for the holiday season, the choir puts on a special show for Christmas.

Animal Actors on Location!

A live show featuring a number of amazing animals that show you how they work in movies and television shows.  There are dogs, cats, birds and more.  The the daily schedule for showtimes on the great show.

Animal Actors on Location!is located in Woody Woodpecker’s Kid Zone within Universal Studios Florida.

Universal Orlando’s Horror Make-up Show

This is a fun and humorous show that has just a slight bit of gore, but is suitable for all ages.  Showtimes vary so check park guide on the day of your visit.

Universal’s Horror Make-up Show is located in its own theater in the Hollywood section within Universal Studios Florida.

Amazing Interactive Experiences

Ollivanders “Magic” Show

If you have never seen this show before and a Harry Potter fan, this is not to missed.  Mr. Ollivander will pick someone from the audience where he guides a number of different magic wands to chooses the wizard.

Located in both Hogsmeade Village and in Diagon Alley, there is a “show” in each of the two theme parks.

Spell casting at Hogsmeade and in Diagon Alley

After you get your wand from Mr. Ollivanders wand shop, your kids will enjoy casting spells at the many different spell “locations” in both Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley.   Each wand includes a map of all the places where you can cast spells.

Don’t forget to go into Knockturn Alley to check out some of the spells in an area that caters to the “Dark Arts”.  Knockturn Alley is located off Diagon Alley in Universal Studios Florida.

The Mystic Fountain

Spend a few minutes at the Mystic Fountain, it is time well spent.  You kids can talk to the fountain who is quite a funny character.  This experience in located in The Lost Continent within Islands of Adventure.

Gringotts Money Exchange

You can ask the goblin behind the counter a question and Gringotts Money Exchange which is located in Diagon Alley within Universal Studios Florida.

Character Meet & Greets

While there are a few fixed locations for character meet & greets, you will find that Universal sends out its characters at varying times during the day. You will need to check the daily scheduled for when the characters will be available.

• Illumination Characters
  • Meet Gru, Margo, Edith, Agnes, the Minions and Vector from the “Despicable Me” series.
  • Characters from “Sing”
• Transformers
  • Encounter Optimus Prime, Bumblebee, and Megatron.
• The Simpsons
  • Meet Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, and sometimes Krusty the Clown and Sideshow Bob.
• SpongeBob SquarePants
  • Say hello to SpongeBob, Patrick, and occasionally Squidward.
• Shrek’s Swamp Meet
  • Meet Shrek, Fiona and Doney
• Marvel Super Heroes
  • Meet Spider-Man, Captain America, Wolverine, Cyclops, Rogue, and Storm.
• The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
  • Interact with characters like the Hogwarts students, Beauxbatons and Durmstrang performers, and the Knight Bus conductor.
• Blue from Jurassic World
  • Encounter the raptor Blue in a thrilling meet and greet.
• Dr. Seuss Characters
  • Meet the Cat in the Hat, Thing 1 and Thing 2, and other beloved characters from Dr. Seuss books.
• Popeye and Olive Oyl
  • Say hi to Popeye, Olive Oyl, and sometimes Bluto.
• Scooby-Doo and the Gang
  • Meet Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Velma, Daphne, and Fred.
• Characters from the Movies
  • Marilyn Monroe
  • Beetlejuice
  • Doc Brown (Back to the Future)
  • Meet Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Velma, Daphne, and Fred.

Character Dining

In addition to character meet & greets there area a number of other character offerings including character dining so your kids can interact with their favorite Universal personalities.

• Marvel Character Dinner:  Located within Cafe 4 in Islands of Adventure on select nights, your kids will meet their favorite Marvel super heroes including Captain America, Spider-Man, Wolverine, Storm and Rogue.  Theme park admission is required.
• The Grinch and Friends Character Breakfast:  Offered only during the holiday season,  your kids will enjoy a buffet breakfast including pancakes and eggs with The Grinch from your favorite holiday story by Dr. Seuss.   Theme park admission and reservations are required.

On-site Universal Hotels when Traveling with Kids

Universal has a number of resort hotels that are perfect for families traveling with young children.  These hotels are range from the luxury resorts to those suited for more budget conscious travelers.

• Despicable Me Kids’ Suites: You kids will spending the night with their favorite minions around custom designed decor themed after the popular Universal movie.  Located in the Lowes Portofino Bay Hotel, there is a separate master bedroom with a king bed for mom & dad as well as one single room entrance.
• Jurassic World Kids’ Suites:  Themed after the movies, your kids will sleep in a room filled with dinosaur decor right down to the footprints in the carpet. Located in Lowes Royal Pacific Resort, there is a separate master bedroom with a king bed for mom & dad as well as one single room entrance.
• Cabana Bay Beach Resort Family Suite:  Universal offers a 430 square foot family suite at the Cabana Bay Beach Resort that sleeps up to six people and has a bathroom that allows three people to get ready at once.   The suite includes a kitchenette with mini-ridge, sink and microwave oven.  
• Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites 2-Bedroom Suite:  One of Universal’s newest hotels has the perfect room for families with children.  Their two-bedroom suite sleeps up to six in a 440 square foot suite with a room with two-queen beds and a separate room with another queen bed.  The bathroom is designed to allow three people to get ready at once and the room features a kitchenette with picnic table.
• Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites 2-Bedroom Suite (Opening Soon): This brand new hotel also offers a two-bedroom suite similar to that in the Surfside Inn and Suites.

Other Fun Things for Kids

In addition to all the amazing things we listed above, the parks at Universal have a number of places with carnival games and arcades where your kids can win prizes and bring how a souvenir.

You can also check out the seasonal offerings which have a number of family-friendly offerings.  These are highlighted by Holidays at the Wizarding World and Universal’s Mardi Gras (which is very family friendly).  If you want more information about these special events, please check out our definitive guides.