Islands of Adventure

Like Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom, Islands of Adventure is divided into themed lands -- in this case, "islands": Toon Lagoon, Jurassic Park, The Lost Continent, Seuss Landing and Marvel Super Hero Island. Unlike the sugarcoated Magic Kingdom, IOA features edgy, high-octane, to-the-limits attractions. While its coasters have great themeing, they don't skimp on the thrills. Its river raft ride won't just get you wet; you'll get completely drenched. And Spiderman is so utterly amazing, you'll be scraping your jaw off the ground wondering how in the world they did that. IOA is state-of-the-art (and then some) fun.

Highlights

• The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man roving motion base 3-D simulator ride
• The Incredible Hulk launched coaster
• The Cat in the Hat dark ride
• Poseidon's Fury presentation
• Dueling Dragons inverted racing coaster
• Popeye & Bluto's Bilge-Rat Barges river raft ride
• Jurassic Park River Adventure themed splashdown ride

Dining

• Mythos- Among the best in-park dining experience anywhere
• Confisco Grill- Good full-service restaurant, some interesting choices

Tips

• On-property hotel guests can skip to the front of most lines by simply showing their room card.
• Guests not staying at a Universal Hotel can still skip the lines by paying a premium price for a V.I.P. Guided Tour. Reservations recommended.
• Coaster lovers may want to spend the extra time waiting in the front car lines at Dueling Dragons. The near collisions between the two trains are much more spectacular.
• You WILL get soaked on IOA's three water rides. Store your belongings in the provided lockers. Wear sandals. Forget socks. You may want to bring a change of clothes -- unless you don't mind walking around in squishy underwear.

Find Universal Orlando Hotel Accommodations
Compare rates for Orlando-area hotels at About.com's booking partner, Kayak.

Universal Orlando is Wild about Harry
Fans of one of the most beloved series of books and films will be able to visit J.K. Rowling's fanciful lands and characters when The Wizarding World of Harry Potter comes to Universal Orlando in 2009. Read more about what's in the plans.

Islands of Adventure Photo Gallery Tour. One of the most sophisticated and elaborate theme parks in the world, Islands of Adventure at Universal Orlando is also a visual feast. Each "island" is meticulously themed and is designed to immerse guests and help advance the attractions' storylines. See some of the park's captivating sights.