Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Orlando Resort is Central Florida's other major theme-park destination, anchored by Universal Studios Florida — a park built around the movies and television, from The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Diagon Alley to rides themed to Minions, The Simpsons, and Transformers.

A ride on the Hogwarts Express connects Diagon Alley here with Hogsmeade at the neighboring Islands of Adventure, and the surrounding CityWalk district adds restaurants, live music, and nightlife with no ticket required.

Universal sits northeast of the theme-park corridor, an easy drive from our Orlando homes — close enough for a day trip, or a multi-day add-on that now includes Universal's new Epic Universe park.