Conventional wisdom says that you should arrive at the theme parks very early—before rope drop—and hit as many attractions as you can. Then, around lunchtime or shortly after, head back to your hotel for a midday break. After a nap and a swim, return to the parks to enjoy the evening.
This advice works pretty well if you are staying on property and are a natural napper. But what if you are on a day trip from the surrounding area, or at the mercy of an off-site hotel’s bus schedule? I grew up in Lakeland, about 40 minutes from the parks—much too far to go home for a break, but way too close to justify a hotel stay. Fortunately, the parks are filled with places to relax and recharge without having to leave. Here are a few of my favorites at Universal Orlando.
1. Horror Makeup Show (Universal Studios)
Universal’s Horror Makeup Show has the distinction of being one of only three opening day attractions still operating, along with Lucy: A Tribute and E.T. Adventure. The show mixes horror and comedy as guests learn the secrets behind the special effects makeup in some of Universal’s most legendary films.
Although the show is terrific, there is rarely much of a line even on crowded days, making it a perfect spot to escape the crowds. The theater is dark and cool, and the seats are reasonably comfortable, providing an excellent chance to kick back and relax. The lobby is filled with fascinating displays of props from Universal’s extensive horror film collection. You are welcome to peruse the lobby collection at your leisure, both before and after the show.
2. Garden of Allah (Universal Studios)
Rumor has it that the expansive collection of buildings here will soon become a sort of walk-through attraction, but it is the gardens themselves that provide a wonderful place to relax. Surrounded by greenery that provides plenty of shade, the gardens go unnoticed by most visitors. Perch on a low wall and watch the world go by, or walk back a little further for privacy. The back side of the Garden of Allah opens to the outdoor seating for the KidZone Pizza Company, and the tables on that side are rarely in use, providing an alternate seating option for those in the know to take a break.
3. Animal Actors On Location! (Universal Studios)
This show, currently in its third incarnation, features highly trained animals from dogs to pigs. Although the amphitheater is outdoors, it is covered and cooled with fans, making it a shady and comfortable spot to take a break. The show is fairly lengthy and you are allowed to bring food and drinks inside, so grab some snacks and take time to rehydrate.
4. E.T. Adventure (Universal Studios)
This bicycle ride to E.T.’s home planet is arguably Universal’s best pick for families of disparate ages and interests, but the queue is what makes it a top choice for a midday break. One of the most immersive queues anywhere, it winds through a dark and cool pine forest, complete with piped-in scent. Skip the Express queue here, even if you are eligible, and spend some time getting “back to nature.”
5. Jurassic Park Discovery Center (Islands of Adventure)
Most visitors make a beeline for the Jurassic Park River Adventure, a high-thrill water ride sure to provide a cooling soak, but many pass right on by the Discovery Center. This dinosaur museum is open and airy, with cold air conditioning and plenty of seating, allowing you the chance to sit down and relax. Lots of activities are available for all ages, from computer-based trivia quizzes to scavenger hunts organized by Discovery Center staff. And where else can you watch a baby dinosaur hatch, and maybe even get to name it?
Pro tip: If you want to get away from it all, go out the back door of the Discovery Center. There’s a beautiful patio overlooking the lagoon, low walls to sit on, and virtually no one around.
6. Mythos (Islands of Adventure)
Voted the best theme park restaurant in the world for many years in a row, Mythos survived the cut when much of Lost Continent closed to make room for Hogsmeade. Themed as a grotto carved from solid rock, Mythos is both fun and relaxing. The top-quality food is surprisingly inexpensive for a theme park table service restaurant, and every dish seems inspired. Ask for a table overlooking the lagoon if you want to people watch, or stay away from the windows if you want to be fully transported to a mythical world.
7. Poseidon’s Fury (Islands of Adventure)
Across from Mythos in the Lost Continent, Poseidon’s Fury is a highly immersive walk-through attraction that many people never realize is there. Guided by archeologist Taylor, you will soon find yourself immersed in a battle between good and evil carried out by ancient gods. The building is dark and cool, and the special effects are truly stunning. While the attraction uses more than 200 different fire effects, it is the water tunnel that puts this one over the edge into jaw-dropping territory. If you feel up to walking and standing, a trip through Poseidon’s Fury is a highly refreshing midday break.
8. Wizarding World of Harry Potter (Both Parks)
Phase one, Hogsmeade and Hogwarts, is located inside Islands of Adventure. Phase two, Diagon Alley, is inside Universal Studios Florida. If you have a two-park ticket, the Hogwarts Express connects the two. These extraordinarily faithful reproductions do an amazing job of taking visitors inside the beloved books and films. By all means, hit the groundbreaking signature rides when you’re feeling fresh. But when midday fatigue hits, slow down and enjoy the details. People have been known to spend an entire day just poking through the shops, trying out new foods and beverages, and finding the hidden gems.
While popular wisdom suggests heading back to your hotel for a nap and a swim, this is not always practical or even desirable. Universal Orlando provides numerous quiet spots where you can get out of the sun and recharge your batteries without ever leaving the parks. Of course, if you do want to slip away from the parks for a bit, CityWalk provides a vast array of options that are normally less crowded during theme park operating hours.
