Universal Orlando’s personality is revealed the moment you arrive in the theme parks, where music, cartoonish architecture, abundant eye candy, subtle and overt sound effects, whirling and whizzing rides, plus a throng of fellow travelers will follow you nearly everywhere. For peace and quiet, seek sanctuary at one of the resort hotels.

At a breathless pace, there’s a chance you could visit both Universal parks (Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, aka IOA) in a single day, but to do that you’ll have to invest in a Universal Express Pass. Without it, you’ll spend a good portion of that day waiting in line at the premium attractions. So allow two days, or perhaps three; a day for each park plus a "pick-up" day to return to your favorite attractions—or skip them both in favor of a leisurely day at Volcano Bay. Which attractions are the main attractions? At Universal Studios, Revenge of the Mummy and The Simpsons are always popular; at IOA, the Incredible Hulk Coaster and the Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man are hits. At both parks, it’s definitely the entire scope of shops and attractions at the Wizarding Worlds of Harry Potter.

Universal Studios appeals primarily to those who like loud, fast, high-energy attractions—generally teens and adults. Covering 444 acres, it's a rambling montage of sets, shops, and soundstages housing theme attractions, as well as reproductions of New York, San Francisco, London, and the fictional town of Springfield.

When IOA first opened in 1999, it took attractions to a new level. Each section—from Marvel Super Hero Island to Toon Lagoon to Seuss Landing and the Lost Continent—was impressive enough to suggest that Universal had out-Disneyed Disney. And when the 20-acre Wizarding World of Harry Potter–Hogsmeade opened in 2010, IOA received well-deserved worldwide attention. Universal Studios made another huge leap forward with the 2014 unveiling of a full-scale version of Diagon Alley, complete with Gringotts Bank and a magical train that departs for IOA from Platform 9¾. Knowing how Harry’s cast a spell on generations of fans, Universal is always finding ways to expand the Potter magic with new angles, attractions, and shows. So stay tuned.