Complete Guide to Universal Studios for Kids in 2023
Complete Guide to Universal Studios for Kids in 2023
This blog post is your complete guide when planning rides and entertainment at Universal Orlando for kids! Universal Orlando Resort is a mega amusement park full of thrilling and exciting rides, typically known to be targeted towards teens and adults. However, the park is just as much for kids as it is for the older crowd. As much as it may not seem like the best age for Universal, kids are able to have just as much fun as the older crowd.
Our guide includes venturing on age-appropriate rides, meeting silly and famous characters, and seeing all the shows and events the park has to offer. In this guide, we will cover the best rides at Universal Studios for kids, best rides at Islands of Adventure for Kids and so much more!
We hope you find this post helpful. Our goal at The Park Prodigy has always been to help you save time and money on your next Universal Orlando vacation. This includes access to the cheapest Universal Orlando tickets, as well as FREE park plans to save up to three hours in the parks!
So if you’re ready to learn more about visiting Universal Orlando with kids here’s what you need to know!
SPECIAL NOTE: If you need help picking the best time to visit Universal Orlando for your next vacation be sure to check out our Universal crowd calendar!
Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar
Universal Studios for Kids 2023
If you’re planning a family vacation, Universal Orlando Resort is an amazing destination that everyone will enjoy, including children. Many families actually worry and ask themselves is Universal kid friendly, a, but rest assured, there are numerous activities and attractions available to ensure that young ones have an unforgettable adventure. There are actually many activities and attractions for Universal Studios kids to have an EPIC adventure on between two theme parks and a third being built right now! The best part is that there are also Universal Studios rides for kids in both theme parks, which are good kiddos as little as toddlers!
Is Universal Studios little kid friendly?
Yes, we do think that Universal Studios is kid friendly and can be done with little kids too! While the recommended Universal Studios age range is a little bit older than Disney, there are a handful of rides for the little-littles too. Little witches and wizards will love the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which is featured in both Universal parks. Outside of rides Universal Orlando also has plenty of shows and Universal Orlando character interactions for kids around the theme parks!
Are there rides at Universal Orlando Resort for kids?
We are going to start this guide with one of the most common questions we receive which is, does Universal Studios have kiddie rides? And, in total Universal Studios Orlando has six rides for kids which do not include a minimum height requirement. Plus there are plenty of more rides that will be a great fit for kids who are 36-40 inches in height.
What are the Universal Studios kiddie rides?
- Caro-Seuss-El
- One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish
- Hogwarts Express – Hogsmeade Station
- Storm Force Accelatron
- Hogwarts Express – King’s Cross Station
- Kang and Kodos Twirl ‘n’ Hurl
What is a good age to take kids to Universal Orlando?
As a general rule of thumb, we find that the best Universal Studios age is seven to eight years old and above is the best age to take kids to Universal Orlando Florida. With the main reason being that many of of the rides at Universal do have height restrictions which kids start to meet right around the age of seven. So if you’re trying to get the most out of your family vacation it’s important to keep the Universal Orlando height requirements in mind.
As discussed there are still a good amount of other rides with minimum height requirements that kids will love that we will cover below. Many families can also look into activities such as the interactive Harry Potter Wands to keep little ones occupied in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. And don’t forget to take advantage of early park admission when possible! This will allow you to hop online for Ollivanders wand shop or some of the other Universal kids rides we’re about to cover in this article as soon as the parks open for regular guests.
Related Page: Universal Early Park Admission
Universal Orlando for Toddlers and Babies
The good news: there’s no admission fee for children under 3 years old. There are no age restrictions at Universal that don’t allow babies and toddler in the park. However, the Universal Studios age recommendation is a fairly mature 8 years-old. If they’re younger they probably won’t be able to appreciate much of the entertainment or be able to go on many rides, but families do have a fun experience when taking a trip together. Plus as we discussed you can enjoy Early Park Access to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter when you use early park admission!
Although the little ones may not appreciate all Universal has to offer, that doesn’t mean they’re unwelcome. Both Universal theme parks have Family Services facilities for infant and toddler care. These are equipped for changing diapers, preparing formulas, warming bottles, and providing food. Supplies are for sale, and special chairs for nursing mothers are provided along with rockers.
What rides can toddlers go on at Universal Studios?
- Caro-Seuss-El
- One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish
- Hogwarts Express – Hogsmeade Station
- Hogwarts Express – King’s Cross Station
Comparing Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure for Kids
Universal Orlando Resort offers two different theme parks full of exciting themes for both children and adults. While Universal Studios may seem like the best park for kids, Islands of Adventure has plenty of activities for children, as well.
Let’s compare the two parks, Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, to see which park will be best for kids at Universal Orlando Resort.
Universal Studios Florida for Kids
So, what is the best age for Universal Studios? The short answer, is between 7-8 years old and up. The reason being is there are not as many rides with no height restrictions as you might find at Disney’s Magic Kingdom. However this question also completely depends on the family! There are many activities for children in Universal Studios for a vast age range. Many families also enjoy the character interactions and nighttime shows at Hogwarts.
There are many thrilling rides meant for the grown-ups at the parks, making it seem like the best age to visit Universal Studios is a teen or adult. However, the theme parks make sure to incorporate everything for even the youngest fans. They even have a dedicated area for kids visiting Universal, so there really is no bad age to visit. Plus, the memories might fade a little for them, but your memories of having a blast as a family will last a lifetime!
Universal Studios is a wonderful introduction park for most families who are bringing young children to Universal Orlando Resort. There are plenty of rides available with a rather low height requirement, making it very kid friendly. Universal Studios has rides like Men in Black, where you can shoot away at intergalactic aliens for points, or E.T., which takes you on a magical bike adventure into space. You can also meet some of our favorite childhood friends like SpongeBob Squarepants or Shrek!
Related Page: All of the Universal Orlando Water Rides
2023 Universal Studios Florida Height Requirements
One of the most important things about making your Universal Studios trip with kids run more smoothly is measuring their height before you leave. Once you have that magic number, it will be easy to see which rides are available for your family to experience while in the parks. Let’s talk about the best rides for kids in Universal Studios, starting with height!
Universal Studios Orlando Rides With No Height Requirement
- Hogwarts Express – King’s Cross Station
- Kang and Kodos Twirl ‘n’ Hurl
If you have a park hopper ticket, the Hogwarts Express magical journey from Diagon Alley to Hogsmeade, just like in the Harry Potter movies! You board a train and get to hang out with all of our Harry Potter friends on the Hogwarts Express, just like it’s the first day of school at Hogwarts.
Related Page: Discount Universal Orlando Park Tickets
Universal Studios Orlando Height Requirement
E.T Adventure
Height Requirement – Minimum Height 34″ (86.36 cm)
Supervising Companion Required – Under 48” (122 cm) Requires Supervising Companion
Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
Height Requirement- Minimum Height 40″ (102 cm)
Supervising Companion Required – Under 48” (122 cm) Requires Supervising Companion
Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon
Height Requirement- Minimum Height 40″ (102 cm)
Supervising Companion Required – Under 48” (122 cm) Requires Supervising Companion
The Simpsons Ride
Height Requirement- Minimum Height 40″ (102 cm)
Supervising Companion Required – Under 48” (122 cm) Requires Supervising Companion
TRANSFORMERS: The Ride-3D
Height Requirement- Minimum Height 40″ (102 cm)
Supervising Companion Required – Under 48” (122 cm) Requires Supervising Companion
Harry Potter And The Escape From Gringotts
Height Requirement- Minimum Height 42″ (107 cm)
Supervising Companion Required – Under 48” (122 cm) Requires Supervising Companion
Men In Black Alien Attack
Height Requirement- Minimum Height 40″ (102 cm)
Supervising Companion Required – Under 48” (122 cm) Requires Supervising Companion
Revenge Of The Mummy
- You must be at least 48 inches tall to ride Revenge of the Mummy.
Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
– You must be between 51 inches and 79 inches in height to ride Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit.
Related Page: Universal Orlando Photo Pass
Best Universal Studios Rides for Kids
E.T Adventure
As the only original Universal ride left this is one of the best Universal rides for kids. Guests of all ages join E.T. on a journey from Earth to the friendly alien’s home planet. While adults feel the nostalgia from the 1982 movie, the little ones will be in awe over their journey. This wholesome adventure makes for one of the best family rides at Universal Studios Orlando.
The Simpsons Ride
Although little kids may not appreciate the longest-running sitcom, they can enjoy their ride (if they’re 40 inches or over). Clips from the hit show play before guests load onto the 4D ride vehicle. You and the kids will truly feel as if you’re being featured in one of the episodes, which will make for a good laugh.
Kang & Kodos’s Twirl ‘n’ Hurl
One of the other kid friendly rides at Universal Studios Orlando is also located in Springfield: Home of the Simpsons. Spin in flying saucers and soar above the crowds on this fun ride with no height requirement. Each flying saucer can fit an average adult with one or two kids, making this one of the fun Universal Studios rides for little ones.
Best Universal Studios Shows for Kids
One of the most entertaining things for toddlers to do at Universal Studios Orlando (and to keep them occupied so the parents can take a breather) is sit and watch live entertainment. In fact, the shows and entertainment are considered some of the best things to do at Universal. We are hoping that Universal has more Universal Studios shows for kids in the works, as they’ve closed the entire KidZone as of 2023.
Universal Orlando Resort does have Illuminations Villain-Con Minion Blast coming with the new Minion Land that will be replacing Production Central. If you have Minion loving kids, then this new Universal Studios kiddie area will have a new attraction, meet and greets and more. This new Minions Land for Universal will be opening in Summer of 2023 in Universal Studios Florida.
Animal actors on location!
The large open-air theater hosts a live show featuring Hollywood’s famous animal performers, including pigs, birds, chickens, roosters, dogs, cats, and even a skunk! Kids also may be selected to volunteer to be in the production. After the show, you get the chance to take a photo with some of the trainers and animals.
Related Page: Complete List of all Universal Orlando Rides
Best Universal Studios Character Appearances
SpongeBob SquarePants
Say hello to your favorite undersea creatures. SpongeBob, Patrick, and Squidward meet throughout the day inside of SpongeBob StorePants shop. Character appearances will vary throughout the day.
Shrek
Greetings from the swamp! The Shrek 4D show takes the audience on a hilarious adventure jam-packed with fun. However, there are parts of the show that are a bit spooky. Keep in mind that 4D means seats will remain stationary, but there will be some jolts and vibrations.
After riding Shrek 4D (which is another no-minimum height ride), stop by and see if Shrek, Fiona, and Donkey are waiting to meet you!
Despicable Me
If you’re a Universal veteran, you may remember the old Jimmy Neutron ride… Well, that ride was renovated and turned into a Despicable Me story. However, the format of the ride is basically the same as it was for Jimmy Neutron.
The Despicable Me ride is similar to the Shrek 4D adventure in the sense that it is an audience show, but is designed a little more like a simulation ride. The audience seating is sectioned off by two rows of four seats that share lap-bar. It has a height requirement of 40 inches. Be sure to meet the Minions after the ride!
Hollywood Character Zone
The Character Zone is the perfect spot in Universal for toddlers, kids, and adults to enjoy a mix of celebrity meet and greets. Fun characters like Curious George, Lucille Ball, Marilyn Monroe, Betty Boop, Woody Woodpecker and more are available for pictures. Characters like Scooby-Doo and the gang are always sure to make the kids laugh!
Related Page: Complete Guide to Universal Studios Characters
Universal Islands of Adventure for Kids
Unlike the best age for Universal Studios, you may be worried that the best age for Islands of Adventure may be different! With one of the main reasons being that Islands of Adventure does have more roller coasters when compared to Universal Studios Florida. Luckily, there are still plenty of things to do in this thrilling sister park of Universal Studios.
Islands of Adventure is a thrilling park, with plenty of modern pop culture for even the youngest of fans to enjoy. Islands of Adventure is home to the original Hogsmeade, for the Wonderful Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and the cult classic Jurassic Park, with many rides and activities for all. Unfortunately, this park is aimed more toward adults, but can still be plenty of fun for kids, as well.
Islands of Adventure Height Requirements
Universal Islands Of Adventure Rides With No Height Requirements
- Caro-Seuss-El
- One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish
- Hogwarts Express – Hogsmeade Station
- Storm Force Accelatron
Universal Islands Of Adventure Height Requirements
Skull Island: Reign Of Kong
Height Requirement- Minimum Height 36″ (92 cm)
Supervising Companion Required – Under 48” (122 cm) Requires Supervising Companion
Flight Of The Hippogriff
Height Requirement- Minimum Height 36″ (92 cm)
Supervising Companion Required – Under 48” (122 cm) Requires Supervising Companion
Cat In The Hat
Height Requirement- Min Height 36” (92 cm)
Supervising Companion Required – Under 48” (122 cm) Requires Supervising Companion
Pteranodon Flyers
Height Requirement- Min Height 36” (92 cm) Max height 56” (142 cm)
Supervising Companion Required – Under 48” (122 cm) Requires Supervising Companion
The Amazing Adventures Of Spider-Man
Height Requirement- Min Height 40” (102 cm)
Supervising Companion Required – Under 48” (122 cm) Requires Supervising Companion
The High In The Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride
Height Requirement- Min Height 36” (92 cm)
Supervising Companion Required – Under 48” (122 cm) Requires Supervising Companion
Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges
Height Requirement- Min Height 42” (107 cm)
Supervising Companio
