Enough Time at Universal? - PassPorter - A Community of Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, and General Travel Forums
PassPorter.com
Award-winning travel guidebooks

   guidebooks   |   news   |   podcasts   |   boards   |   blog   |   worksheets   |   photos   |   articles   |   updates   |   register   |   follow us on


Forums Closed
As of January 1, 2019, we have closed our forums. This is a decision we did not come to lightly, but it is necessary. The software our forums run on is just too out-of-date and it poses a significant security risk. The server software itself must be updated, and it cannot be without removing the forums.

So it is with a heavy heart that we say goodbye to our long-running forums. They came online in 2000 and brought together so many wonderful Disney fans. We had friendships form, careers launch, couples marry, children born ... all because of this amazing community.

Thank you to each of you who were a part of this community. You made it possible.

And a very special thank you to our Guides (moderators), past and present, who kept our forums a happy place to be. You are the glue that held everything together, and we are forever grateful to you. Thank you aliceinwdw, Caldercup, MrsM, WillCAD, Fortissimo, GingerJ, HiddenMickey, CRCrazy, Eeyoresmom, disneyknut, disneydani, Cam22, chezp, WDWfan, Luvsun, KMB733, rescuesk, OhToodles!, Colexis Mom, lfredsbo, HiddenMickey, DrDolphin, DopeyGirl, duck addict, Disneybine, PixieMichele, Sandra Bostwick, Eeyore Tattoo, DyanKJ130, Suzy Q'Disney, LilMarcieMouse, AllisonG, Belle*, Chrissi, Brant, DawnDenise, Crystalloubear, Disneymom9092, FanOfMickey, Goofy4Goofy, GoofyMom, Home4us123, iamgrumpy, ilovedisney247, Jennifer2003, Jenny Pooh, KrisLuvsDisney, Ladyt, Laughaholic88, LauraBelle Hime, Lilianna, LizardCop, Loobyoxlip, lukeandbrooksmom, marisag, michnash, MickeyMAC, OffKilter_Lynn, PamelaK, Poor_Eeyore, ripkensnana, RobDVC, SHEANA1226, Shell of the South, snoozin, Statelady01, Tara O'Hara, tigger22, Tink and Co., Tinkerbelz, WDWJAMBA, wdwlovers, Wendyismyname, whoSEZ, WildforWD, and WvuGrrrl. You made the magic.

We want to personally thank Sara Varney, who coordinated our community for many years (among so many other things she did for us), and Cheryl Pendry, our Message Board Manager who helped train our Guides, and Ginger Jabour, who helped us with the PassPorter-specific forums and Live! Guides. Thank you for your time, energy, and enthusiasm​. You made it all happen.

There are other changes as well.

Why? Well, the world has changed. And change with it, we must. The lyrics to "We Go On" for IllumiNations say it best:

We go on to the joy and through the tears
We go on to discover new frontiers
Moving on with the current of the years.
We go on
Moving forward now as one
Moving on with a spirit born to run
Ever on with each rising sun.
To a new day, we go on.

It's time to move on and move forward.

PassPorter is a small business, and for many years it supported our family. But the world changed, print books took a backseat to the Internet, and for a long time now it has been unable to make ends meet. We've had to find new ways to support our family, which means new careers and less and less time available to devote to our first baby, PassPorter.

But eventually, we must move on and move forward. It is the right thing to do.

So we are retiring this newsletter, as we simply cannot keep up with it. Many thanks to Mouse Fan Travel who supported it all these years, to All Ears and MousePlanet who helped us with news, to our many article contributors, and -- most importantly -- to Sara Varney who edited our newsletter so wonderfully for years and years.

And we are no longer charging for the Live Guides. If you have a subscription, it's yours to keep for the lifetime of the Live Guides at no additional cost. The Live Guides will stay online, barring server issues and technical problems, for all of 2019.

That said, PassPorter is not going away. Most of the resources will remain online for as long as we can support them, and after that we will find ways to make whatever we can available. PassPorter means a great deal to us, and to many of you, and we will do our best to keep it alive in whatever way we can. Our server costs are high, and they'll need to come out of our pockets, so in the future you can expect some changes so we can bring those costs down.

Thank you, thank you, thank you for your amazing support over the years. Without you, there's no way us little guys could have made something like this happen and given the "big guys" a run for their money. PassPorter was consistently the #3 guidebook after the Unofficial and Official guides, which was really unheard of for such a small company to do. We ROCKED it thanks to you and your support and love!

If you miss us, you can still find some of us online. Sara started a new blog at DisneyParkPrincess.com -- I strongly urge you to visit and get on her mailing list. She IS the Disney park princess and knows Disney backward and forward. And I am blogging as well at JenniferMaker.com, which is a little craft blog I started a couple of years ago to make ends meet. You can see and hear me in my craft show at https://www.youtube.com/c/jennifermaker . Many PassPorter readers and fans are on Facebook, in groups they formed like the PassPorter Trip Reports and PassPorter Crafting Challenge (if you join, just let them know you read about it in the newsletter). And some of our most devoted community members started a forum of their own at Pixie Dust Lane and all are invited over.

So we encourage you to stay in touch with us and your fellow community members wherever works best for you!

Best wishes for a wonderful and magical new year!

Go Back   PassPorter - A Community of Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, and General Travel Forums > PassPorter's Florida Destinations Beyond Walt Disney World > Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure
Register


Welcome! We're happy you've found the PassPorter Community -- the friendliest place to plan your vacation to Walt Disney World, Disney Cruise Line, Disneyland, and the world in general! You are now viewing the PassPorter Message Board Community as a guest, which gives you limited access. As our guest, feel free to browse our messages by selecting the forum you want to visit from the list below.

To post messages and ask questions, join our FREE community today and you'll get access to tools and resources not available to guests, such as our vacation countown timers, "living" avatars, private messaging system, database searches, downloads, and a special PassPorter discount code. Registration is fast, simple, and completely free. Just click the Join Our Community link.

If you think you've already joined, log in below now. If you don't remember your member name or password, please visit our Member Name and Password Recovery page. You are also welcome to contact us.

Reply
 
Thread Tools Display Modes
Old 03-30-2011, 08:46 AM   #1
tink305
Community Rank: Sightseer
 
Join Date: Mar 2011
Posts: 95

Post Thanks / Like
Enough Time at Universal?

Hi all! On my august trip, im interested in going to Universal.I havent been there in many years. I'll have my 13 and 15 year old kids with me.They have never been there.To be honest none of us are interested in the Harry Potter thing. I know there is the other section I cant remember the name? Thats where i would like to go. Ok, so how long do you think is enough time to spend there? Do you know of any discounts because it seems the prices on top of an almost 2 week stay at WDW is steep..I even looked into on site hotels.Wow,very pricey.But i dont think its to be missed.
tink305 is offline  
 
Reply With Quote
Old 03-30-2011, 12:18 PM   #2
jimmymac
Community Rank:
Legend Extraordinaire
 
Join Date: Apr 2004
Location: New York, NY
Posts: 35,829

Post Thanks / Like
Universal Studios is actually 2 separate parks - Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. Harry Potter is in Islands of Adventure. Each park requires a separate admission. Both parks have a lot of great rides - much more intense than any at WDW. Staying on site gives you front of the line priviliges. I'd give each park a day
__________________
Jim
My Countdown Counting down to:
My Previous Trips2015 BC, 2014 BC, 2014 BWI, 2013 BC, 2013 GF, 2012 BC, 2012 OKW, 2012 BWI, 2011 BWI, 2011 BC, 2010 BC, 2010 CSR, 2010 Kidani, 2009 GCV, 2009 BC, 2008 BWV, 2008 Grand Californian, 2008 BC, 2007 BWI, 2007 POFQ, 2007 Grand Californian, 2006 BC, 2006 POR, 2006 WL, 2005 BC, 2005 BWI, 2005 CBR, 2004 CR, 2004 GF, 2004 POFQ 2004 Poly, 2003 Poly, 2003 CSR, 2003 POR, 2002 AKL, 2002 GF, 2001 AKL, 2001 Poly, 2000 CBR, 1999 CBR, 1998 ASMo, 1997 ASMSp, 1996 ASMo, 1995 ASSp, 1991 Wyndham, 1989 off site, 1985 Off Site
jimmymac is offline  
 
Reply With Quote
Old 03-30-2011, 02:09 PM   #3
chezp
PassPorter Message Board Manager
PassPorter Guide Author

Community Rank:
Legend VIP
 
chezp's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jun 2002
Location: Maidstone, Kent, UK
Concierge Level: 3
Posts: 190,285

Post Thanks / Like
I'd go with a day for each as well as a minimum.
__________________

Relaxing on board the Magic. The trip report for our back-to-back cruises on the Disney Magic has started!
My Countdown Counting down to: 2019
Happy New Year!
My PassPorter Bookshelf
My Previous Trips21 trips to WDW, 6 to Disneyland in California, 9 to Disneyland Paris, 1 to Hong Kong Disneyland, 1 to Tokyo Disney, 1 to Aulani, 1 to Hilton Head, 2 to Vero Beach and 13 Disney cruises on the Magic, Wonder, Dream and Fantasy
chezp is offline  
 
Reply With Quote
Old 03-30-2011, 02:49 PM   #4
tink305
Community Rank: Sightseer
 
Join Date: Mar 2011
Posts: 95

Post Thanks / Like
Hi.Thanks for the input.It is the Universal theme Park that im interested in.Not the Harry Potter side.But if i do decide to go at all, i would upgrade from a one day to two i think.
By any chance, does anyone remember a ride with KingKong?Not sure if it was in Universal or the old MGM?Whichever the case its gone. That was a cool ride.Just curious.
tink305 is offline  
 
Reply With Quote
Old 03-30-2011, 05:57 PM   #5
Shell_of_the_South
Yeti Chaser
 
Shell_of_the_South's Avatar
 
Join Date: Apr 2002
Location: Way down south
Concierge Level: 6
Posts: 20,411

Post Thanks / Like
Kongfrontation is long gone. It was replaced by the Revenge of the Mummy coaster, which was a definite step up!!

Keep in mind that the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is just one section of Islands of Adventure. Don't mark Islands of Adventure (IOA) off your list just because you're not into Harry Potter!! It's a beautifully themed park with some top thrill rides. Each section of the park is a themed "island" with attractions and shows: Marvel Super Hero Island, Toon Lagoon, Jurassic Park, Suess Landing, the Lost Continent, and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
__________________
http://www.passporterboards.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=56033&d=1459510965Michelle - with my step sisters!
My Countdown Counting down to: Going to be a kid again
My PassPorter Bookshelf
My Previous Trips9/00 - ASM, 11/01 - AS Sp/OKW, 7/02 - RPH, 4/03 - HRH, 7/03 - HRH, 10/04 - PC, 10/05 - POR, 5/06 - HRH, 12/06 - AKL, 4/07 - WL/CBR, 9/07 - POR, 4/08 - USF offsite, 7/09 - AKL, 9/11 - AKL, 8/12 - Cont., 12/13 - WL, 9/14- WL, 12/15 - Poly, 5/16 - AKL, 8/16 - WL, 11/16 - POFQ, 4/17 - Cont., 5/17 - WL, 6/17 - AKL

Last edited by Shell_of_the_South; 03-30-2011 at 06:03 PM..
Shell_of_the_South is offline  
 
Reply With Quote
Old 03-30-2011, 06:07 PM   #6
tink305
Community Rank: Sightseer
 
Join Date: Mar 2011
Posts: 95

Post Thanks / Like
Oooh, is that what it was called?Thanks. I just remember the ride itself and i think taking place in NY.The Universal part is more appealing to me. I remember the characters roaming around.I noticed the have a lucy tribute. Oh i love her. I know this August marks her 100th bday. I wonder if they will be promoting her exhibit more.
tink305 is offline  
 
Reply With Quote
Old 03-31-2011, 03:57 PM   #7
Wanetta Wilde
Community Rank: Passenger
 
Wanetta Wilde's Avatar
 
Join Date: Nov 2007
Posts: 25

Post Thanks / Like
Tink,

Not to beat a dead horse, but I think you are missing what everyone is saying about the HP just being a section of the park, not the entire park. The Islands of Adventure is kind of like the MGM/Hollywood Studios or Epcot part of the Walt Disney World. Just because you don't like to ride Rockin Roller Coaster, you wouldn't skip the chance to ride Tower of Terror! Or if you decide you are not going to ride the Three Caballeros ride, you would definitely not skip Soarin', right? The US and IOA are 2 totally different parks. I would think the teen boys would love them both, even the HP part if they aren't fans, unless there are lines.

I have not been to either one yet (going in June), but from what I understand, the Mummy is better than the Kong ride was. They left in certain things from the Kong ride though as hidden "mickey's" from what I was able to squeeze from a guide book I bought over the weekend. Also, DH LOATHES HP, but was willing to take a shot due to the rides in HP. He isn't going to do any of the shops and whatnots, but the Duelling Dragons ride (was another dragon ride prior to their converting it to a HP themed coaster) and also the tour of the castle and the simulator ride that follows that is supposed to be one of the best in the IOA park. They are two separate parks just like Epcot and Magic Kingdom or Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios are so try not to pass them up just because you and the guys don't like HP! There are still other rides to be ridden in that IOA park and you must ride them! Mostly so you can come back and report to me how good they were or weren't.
__________________

Wanetta
My Countdown Counting down to: WDW July 12, 2012
Woo-hoo! I am back at the World...having a blast!
My Previous TripsWDW June 1985, DCL Sept. 1999, DCL October 2001, WDW Nov. 2007, WDW Nov.2008, Oahu May 2009,WDW Aug. 2009, Oahu May 2010,WDW Dec. 2010, Kauai 2011, WDW Dec 2011, US/IOA May 2012
Wanetta Wilde is offline  
 
Reply With Quote
Old 03-31-2011, 10:34 PM   #8
bwheat2004
Community Rank: Adventurer
 
bwheat2004's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jan 2010
Location: Fayetteville, AR
Concierge Level: 6
Posts: 804

Post Thanks / Like
Keep in mind they also sell something similar to Disney's park Hopper. I think they call it a Park to Park Pass. And even if you don't want to go the the Harry Potter part there are lots of other areas that are awesome.
__________________
Brenda-Looking forward to our next Disney Trip
My Countdown Counting down to: Our 11th Trip to Disney and the 3rd trip for our Grandson (5) who is now hooked! And he will tell you that.
Hip Hip Horay!
My PassPorter Bookshelf
My Previous TripsWDW and DCL 2008, WDW 2007, WDW 2006, WDW 2005, WDW 2004, WDW 2003, WDW 2002, WDW 2000, WDW 1992, WDW 1980
bwheat2004 is offline  
 
Reply With Quote
Old 04-01-2011, 09:04 AM   #9
Wanetta Wilde
Community Rank: Passenger
 
Wanetta Wilde's Avatar
 
Join Date: Nov 2007
Posts: 25

Post Thanks / Like
Quote:
Originally Posted by bwheat2004 View Post
Keep in mind they also sell something similar to Disney's park Hopper. I think they call it a Park to Park Pass. And even if you don't want to go the the Harry Potter part there are lots of other areas that are awesome.
Yep! Bwheat is right! that is what it is called! a Park-to-Park Pass! Depending on the number of days you go (I think you said one or two?) you pay as little as $15 extra per day, but that can add up when it is $15 x 4 peeps!
Good luck, Tink!
__________________

Wanetta
My Countdown Counting down to: WDW July 12, 2012
Woo-hoo! I am back at the World...having a blast!
My Previous TripsWDW June 1985, DCL Sept. 1999, DCL October 2001, WDW Nov. 2007, WDW Nov.2008, Oahu May 2009,WDW Aug. 2009, Oahu May 2010,WDW Dec. 2010, Kauai 2011, WDW Dec 2011, US/IOA May 2012
Wanetta Wilde is offline  
 
Reply With Quote
Old 04-01-2011, 09:10 AM   #10
tink305
Community Rank: Sightseer
 
Join Date: Mar 2011
Posts: 95

Post Thanks / Like
Thanks everyone. I would love to get to go there. Im hoping i could figure it in my budget and schedule. Would anyone know off hand, i have mobility issues. I had gone to that area 2 years ago, just to Hard Rock Cafe. Anyway,i remember we had to park in a garage, then getting over to HRC seemed like such a long hike. Is it the same when you are going to the parks?I hope im explaining this right.
tink305 is offline  
 
Reply With Quote
Old 04-01-2011, 09:55 AM   #11
wishes
Community Rank: Jetsetter
 
Join Date: Aug 2004
Location: Norwalk, CT
Posts: 2,967

Post Thanks / Like
I just came back from USO/IOA. I was there for a cheer comp & had an injured cheerleader with me who needed a wheelchair to get through the parks. We rented one right where you enter from the parking garages. We had my DH drop all of us off at the drop-off area, and just went up the escalator or elevator. Right there was wheelchair rental, and it wasn't too far to get to CityWalk & the park entrances. There is also valet parking, VIP parking & handicapped parking, all close to the entrances. I have to say, the park was very doable with the wheelchair, and many times, the girls were able to get on the front of the lines because of it. I found the team members to be very helpful, as well.
__________________
First trip DW--Nov. 1975; Senior Class Trip DW--Oct. 1979; First trip w/kids--Oct. 1995; Halloween at DW--Oct. 2002; Spring Break at DW--April 2004; Christmas/Pop Warner Nationals-POR--Dec. 2005;Cruisin'--April 2008; Mom/Son trip-POP--March 2010;Taggin' along w/DD on DH's conference-BWI--Oct. 2011; 50th birthday with the Gartner Geeks--Adults only!--BWI--Oct. 2012; The Trip That Almost Wasn't--BWI--Oct. 2013; We climbed The Summit (National Cheer Competition)--ASMovies--May 2014
My PassPorter Bookshelf
wishes is offline  
 
Reply With Quote
Reply



Thread Tools
Display Modes

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off

Forum Jump

Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
Feature Article: Universal Express Pass - Getting Shorter Waits at Universal Orlando PassPorter News PassPorter News 5 09-03-2010 10:29 PM
Feature Article: Universal Express Pass - Getting Shorter Waits at Universal Orlando PassPorter News PassPorter News 0 09-02-2010 11:10 PM
Feature Article: Universal Express Pass - Getting Shorter Waits at Universal Orlando PassPorter News PassPorter News 0 09-02-2010 10:50 PM














Please login or register to hide these ads -- it's free and easy!

All times are GMT -5. The time now is 10:43 AM.

-->

Powered by vBulletin® Version 3.8.9
Copyright ©2000 - 2024, vBulletin Solutions, Inc.
Feedback Buttons provided by Advanced Post Thanks / Like v3.4.0 Patch Level 1 (Pro) - vBulletin Mods & Addons Copyright © 2024 DragonByte Technologies Ltd.
(c) 1998-2017 PassPorter Travel Press/MediaMarx, Inc.
Celebrating 19 Years of Making Dreams Come True
Ad Management plugin by RedTyger