8 Must-Do Rides at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure (and 3 You Can Skip)

Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure are two of the most popular theme parks in the world and for good reason. They’re packed with thrilling rides, immersive experiences, and all sorts of attractions that will appeal to kids and adults alike. If you’re planning a trip to these parks, you’ll want to make sure you hit all the highlights – and avoid the time-wasters. 

Here are our family’s top picks for the rides you can and cannot miss at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. Read on after the jump. 

How do I plan the best trip ever to Universal Florida?

Universal's Hogwarts Express takes you between the parks

Attention all thrill-seekers, Harry Potter fans, and amusement park enthusiasts! If you're planning a trip to Universal Studios in Florida, you're in luck because we've got the inside scoop on how to make the most of your adventure. After a recent visit, we've compiled a list of tips and tricks to ensure your trip is as magical and efficient as possible. So buckle up and let's dive in after the jump.

Planning a Kid-Friendly Trip to Chattanooga

My hubby loves to say, "Traveling with kids isn't a vacation. It's going to another location with your children." That's why going somewhere truly kid-friendly makes life much easier. Chattanooga offers plenty to keep the kids entertained, and it's only a quick drive away from Atlanta. While not as relaxing as say, sipping mai tais on a beach, Chattanooga is a relatively low stress weekend trip from Atlanta.

Tennessee Aquarium Jellyfish
Photo Credit: Adventurous Tastes 

Atlanta Event Review: Cirque du Soleil's Kurios

Contortionist Eels at Kurios
Photo credits: Martin Girard / shootstudio.ca; Costumes: Philippe Guillotel ©2014 Cirque du Soleil

As my beloved departed Stefon would say, "Atlanta's hottest show is Kurios. It has everything: Russian strongmen, invisible lions, and a human telephone pole." What's a human telephone pole, you ask? It's that thing where men stand on each other's shoulders until their nearly 25 feet off the ground.

A Human Telephone Pole at Cirque's Kurios at Atlanta's Atlantic Station

Photo credits: Martin Girard / shootstudio.ca; Costumes: Philippe Guillotel ©2014 Cirque du Soleil