We just got back from Universal (and Islands of Adventure) yesterday. We had a great time! Beautiful weather and 3 fun-filled days. We went during mid-week, Tues, Wed and Friday, off peak season, so the lines were 5-45 mins long, with the H.Potter rides being the longest. We rode everything! We saw The Transformers' Bumble Bee and Optimus Prime doing photo ops, and a dancing street show with Marilyn Monroe. We also saw a tall Egyptian guy on stilts, the Doc from Back to the Future, and Homer and Bart Simpson. So don't be discouraged by some of the reviews. If you walk around, you'll see all kinds of characters and all the shops and restaurants are open. I was expecting it to be underwhelming and understaffed because of covid, but it was fully staffed, beautiful, clean and relaxing. You do have to wear a mask indoors, but at least they are trying to keep us safe. They do constantly remind people to wear their masks correctly. There are so many visitors from other countries, I think it's the most responsible thing to do. There are hand-sanitizer stations everywhere, so you don't have to bring your own.
We loved the Harry Potter Escape from Gringotts ride and the Race through NY Jimmy Fallon rides the best. I do wish there were more coasters here. The Mummy ride was closed for reno. I didn't really care for the wait/line at the Transformers. It's very close quarters and so loud! It's way too stuffy in there. Most all rides at Universal are the 3D rides, and the Harry Potter Forbidden Journey ride did give me motion sickness, so I just closed my eyes until the end. Luckily, I didn't barf.
We had lunch at the Leaky Cauldron. The service was friendly, the atmosphere is fun and my son loved his fish and chips and Butterbeer.
Ticket prices aren't cheap, but the park is really beautiful, it still feels magical during covid, and we will definitely return.
Response from Host
Jan 2022
Hey there!
Thanks for your review! Sounds like you had an incredible time at our parks. We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed our attractions, atmosphere, and theming and that you were satisfied with most of the wait times you encountered. I'm very sorry to hear that our attraction options and some experiences did not meet your expectations. It is certainly never our intention to disappoint our Guests in any way and I sincerely apologize for any inconveniences you experienced during your visit. I will be sure to formally document your concerns and share them with the appropriate Leadership Teams. Feel free to reach out to our Guest Services Team at 407-224-4233 and reference this review, if you would like to discuss your experience further. Still, I hope during your visit you were able to enjoy one of our newest action-packed shows, Bourne Stuntacular. We hope to see you again soon!
Alex