3. Pteranodon Flyers

Elegantly simple in both concept and execution, Camp Jurassic’s Pteranodon Flyers is a surprisingly big draw. The idea is that you are seated in a flying swing that is carried through the air by a massive pteranodon, a flying reptile believed to be an ancestor of the birds. Gentle yet full of motion, this ride captures the feeling of flight in a way that suspended roller coasters and even Disney’s Soarin’ simply do not. The ride is pure fun for all ages. Unfortunately, adults must be accompanied by a child between 36 and 56 inches tall in order to ride.

4. Animal Actors on Location

This stage show, located in Woody Woodpecker’s KidZone at Universal Studios Florida, combines two of the greatest draws for family fun—animals and behind the scenes magic. A few kids are chosen to be part of the show, but even if yours are not, the audience consistently feels like part of the action.

You will learn how professional trainers work with animals in the movies and, since the show is live, you’ll also learn what can go wrong! I have seen a bird fly to an audience member and refuse to return to the stage, a dog who would rather jump up than play dead, and a skunk who just wanted to play to the audience even when it wasn’t his turn.

Light-hearted, endlessly amusing, and never quite the same show twice, Animal Actors on Location rivals anything Disney has to offer for sheer family fun. Make sure to catch this one, no matter what the age and interest makeup of your group.

While it is true that Universal Orlando offers many thrilling attractions and Walt Disney World provides plenty of child-friendly things to do, drawing hard lines in the sand is unfair to both companies. Both work hard to provide a balanced mix of attractions that allow families of all ages and interests to find something that appeals to them.