Visiting Universal Orlando Without Kids

Can you visit a theme park without kids and have a good time?

Just as it's a common misconception that there's nothing to do in Florida except go to theme parks, it's also a misconception that you can only enjoy those theme parks if you're a kid, or that you should only visit if you HAVE kids.

Well guess what? That's completely false especially when it comes to Universal Orlando.

As I quickly found out during a long weekend at Universal Orlando, there's plenty in both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure for kids AND adults alike.

Here are just a few of the adult-friendly features you'll find at Universal:

Thrill rides not just for kids

There are many rides in both Universal parks that are NOT just for kids. Many of them have 48-inches-and-taller height requirements, and are not made for people afraid of heights or being turned upside down. There are 3-D motion simulation rides, roller coasters, and even some that combine the two. Universal has a few sections of its parks that are designed just for little ones, but the majority of the parks offer up rides and experiences just for the adults, too.

Adult beverages in the parks

Looking for a cold adult beverage after getting soaked on the Jurassic Park ride? Or perhaps you need something to offset the sweetness of that butterbeer? Most of the concession stands and restaurants in both Universal parks sell beer or other alcohol. You of course need to drink responsibly, but it's nice that you can just grab a drink as you're walking around.

(Bonus: If you eat at the Three Broomsticks in Hogsmeade, try their Hog's Head Brew, a unique microbrew.)

Please drink responsibly and use a designated driver, as your RoamRight policy does not cover loss resulting from or caused by being under the influence of alcohol.

CityWalk is open late

CityWalk is a stretch of (mostly) restaurants and bars in between the entrances to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. The Universal parks themselves aren't usually open very late, but the party goes on in CityWalk until well after midnight. You'll find everything here from a Hard Rock Cafe to Margaritaville to a restaurant by Emeril. Most hotel shuttles run to/from CityWalk up until about 2 a.m., so feel free to see a movie or catch a Blue Man Group show and then have a late night out.

Everybody acts like a big kid anyway

You may think that you won't enjoy a theme park like this as an adult. But theme parks have a way of making you feel like a kid again, no matter how old you are. Hang out in Diagon Alley for an hour or so, and you're bound to see adults roaming around in Hogwarts robes, waving interactive wands around to cast spells. And, at least half the time, they don't have kids with them.

What other theme parks are fun for adults too?

What do you think of these tips? Add your comments below!

Note: Available plans and coverages may have changed since this blog was published.