Today, I want to share our recent family getaway to Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites, and our day at Universal’s Islands of Adventure Theme Park. Grab a cup of coffee, and join me as I share helpful tips from our experience that, well, was very fun but not quite Disney-level enchanting.
We were headed to Daytona for the Rolex 24 car race and we decided to surprise the kids with a quick stop at Universal Studios in Orlando. We are huge Disney fans and had not yet visited Universal with the kids. With an avid Harry Potter enthusiast, this was a great time to give it a try!
Calm Retreat: Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites
Our journey began with checking into the Surfside Inn and Suites, and let me tell you, the beachy vibes and laid-back atmosphere instantly put us in vacation mode. The resort has a vibrant surf theme, complete with surfboard accents, sunshine-filled colors, and a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for families. Check in was easy and the staff were very friendly. 
Our room was spacious and had all the amenities a busy family could ask for – comfy beds, a mini-fridge for snacks, and a view of the fish shaped pool. The kids were thrilled with the surfboard-shaped headboards, too!
One of the major perks of staying at Surfside Inn and Suites is the exclusive Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™. We made the most of this advantage, beating the crowds and enjoying the magic before the sun was fully up.
A Day of Magic and Thrills: Universal’s Islands of Adventure
After a quick breakfast at the resort’s Beach Break Cafe, we hopped on the complimentary shuttle to Universal’s Islands of Adventure. We knew we only had time for one park and chose Islands of Adventure because our mega Harry Potter fan had not finished all of the books yet and there are a few spoilers in Diagon Alley in Universal Studios that we wanted to avoid. Islands of Adventure also included more rides that our youngest thrill seeker could ride based on height. The excitement was palpable as we approached the park, ready for a day filled with thrills and adventure.
Our first stop was the iconic Hogwarts Castle in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™. As a mom, seeing the sheer joy on my kids’ faces as they experienced the magic of this enchanting world was priceless. We explored Hogsmeade, tried Butterbeer (a must!), and even rode the incredible Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™ and the Flight of the Hippogriff™.
Next up, we ventured into Seuss Landing, a whimsical paradise straight out of Dr. Seuss’s imagination. The vibrant colors, playful rides, and beloved characters brought out the kid in all of us. The Cat in the Hat ride was a particular favorite and the kids had fun watching a street performance about the Lorax. 
As the day unfolded, we conquered the thrilling rides in Marvel Super Hero Island and experienced the jaw-dropping wizardry of The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man. We did not go on The Incredible Hulk Coaster or the Velocicoaster. Lines were long and not everyone in our group was tall enough.
Fueling the Fun: Dining Delights
A day of excitement works up quite an appetite, and Islands of Adventure doesn’t disappoint when it comes to dining options. We indulged in a mix of quick bites and sit-down meals, the highlight was most definitely the Three Broomsticks™. The diverse menu options catered to every member of the family, from picky eaters to adventurous foodies.
A Day Well Spent, but Disney Wins the Crown
As the sun dipped below the horizon, we made our way back to Surfside Inn and Suites, tired, but very happy. Universal’s Islands of Adventure did provide a day of solid fun and thrills. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ had its moments, the superhero escapades were entertaining, and we couldn’t complain about the overall experience.
Yet, if we’re honest, there’s a certain magic that we’ve come to associate with another famous park in town. Universal’s Islands of Adventure is enjoyable, no doubt, but it lacks the enchantment that we always find at Disney.
The rides were good, the food was fine, and the atmosphere was lively, but it left us with a yearning for that extra touch of fairy dust that Disney seems to effortlessly sprinkle on every corner of their parks. So, if given the choice, we’d probably opt for a day at Disney next time. Until then, we’ll cherish the memories made at Universal, knowing that the allure of Disney’s magic is something we won’t be able to resist for too long. Here’s to more adventures, wherever the mouse or wizard may lead us!
