After getting pregnant with my son, I found it really hard to justify keeping my Universal annual pass. If you haven’t noticed, almost all of the rides at Universal are marked unsafe for a pregnant woman. I’m not sure if this is entirely justified or not (as I was once told that I couldn’t ride the Seuss Trolley as it is “basically a roller coaster”), but regardless, no pregnant woman wants to knowingly ride something marked as unsafe – even if it defies logic. You might have to get creative, but there are ways to enjoy a full and carefree day at Universal Studios Florida, even when you’re expecting!
Note: This post only concerns Universal Studios Florida. A follow up post will cover Islands of Adventure.
1.) Take in a show
There are plenty to choose from at Universal Studios! You can watch the Blues Brothers on the streets of New York, view other guests perform stunts at Fear Factor Live, or even learn about movie magic at the Horror Make-Up Show. If you have other children, you might want to catch A Day in the Park with Barney or Animal Actors On Location!
2.) Experience Stationary Seating
Both Despicable Me Minion Mayhem and Shrek 4-D have stationary seating options. You will need to wait in the regular line, but when you reach the end a team member can show you where to sit for stationary seating. You’ll still receive 3-D glasses and you’ll view the exact same video in the exact same theater as your family. Your seat just won’t move.
3.) Ride Kang and Kodos’ Twirl and Hurl
Simpsons’ fans will appreciate this themed ride located within the Springfield area of the park. Guests board a “spaceship” and circle around a drooling alien hurling various insults at the onboard humans. This ride also overlooks the central lake, so guests will be able to see London and the New York streets from the ride.
4.) Play at Curious George Goes to Town
If you have other children, (or maybe even if you don’t) you can enjoy this whimsical water play area. There’s a small splash pad, large buckets dumping water every few minutes, and an entire “town” to explore! There’s also two “dry” play areas: a tented (read: shaded) playground and ball factory (read: an excuse to shoot your loved ones with soft, squishy balls).
5.) Meet the Characters
From Shrek to Marilyn Monroe to the Scooby Doo gang, there are a multitude of character experiences at Universal Studios Florida. You can dance with a minion, laugh with Donkey, or cower in front of Megatron. These meet and greets are awesome opportunities for pictures and video!
6.) Watch Universal’s Superstar Parade
If you haven’t seen enough characters, grab a spot for the evening parade! Cheerful music, colorful floats, and lively entertainment make this a guest favorite! Units feature current hits and favorite classic movies and shows.
7.) Explore Diagon Alley
Perhaps one of the most detailed theme park “lands” I’ve ever seen, Diagon Alley is full of shops to peruse, food to eat, and experiences to enjoy. You can have lunch at the Leaky Cauldron, buy jokes at Weasley’s Wizards Wheezes, change your human money to goblin money, and even venture down Knockturn Alley (if you dare). If you’re inclined to purchase a wand during your visit, you can also spend some time casting spells at designated areas throughout the land.
8.) Hop Onboard The Hogwart’s Express
Yes, even pregnant women can enjoy a walk through King’s Cross Station and take the Hogwart’s Express to Universal’s other theme park, Island of Adventure. The ride only takes a few moments, but you never know who (or what magical creature) you’ll encounter on the way! (Note: Because the train transports guests to Hogsmeade in Islands of Adventure, you’ll need a two park pass to ride it.)
So, as you can see, it is entirely possible to have a full day of fun at Universal Studios – even when you’re expecting. Stay tuned for a future post covering Island of Adventure’s pregnancy-friendly activities!
