Tips For Grandparents at Universal™

If you’re one of the many older adults who feel that they can’t possibly keep up with the grandkids at a theme park like the Universal Orlando Resort™, there’s good news for you! There are so many great things for people to do of all ages, and Universal^™ does a great job making sure everything is accessible. Check out these 5 tips to increase your fun.

Rent an Electronic Convenience Vehicle

Electronic convenience vehicles, otherwise known as ECVs, are electronic wheelchairs that help those with mobility issues quickly and easily get where they need to be going. Remember that even if you have no trouble walking around your hometown, Universal^™  requires a ton of walking and it’s easy to get overwhelmed before you realize it. When you get to the attractions, you’ll either park your ECV in a secured area and walk on the ride, or you can stick to the rides that allow you to drive it right on.

Choose Your Parks Wisely

There are 2 parks within Universal^™: Islands of Adventure^™  and Universal Studios^™. When you buy your discount theme park tickets you can choose a ticket that’s good for one or both parks. Note that Islands of Adventure^™  has many more thrill rides, while Universal Studios^™  has more shows and easy-going attractions.

Pack Your Bag Wisely

You can bring a bag of any size into the parks, and you should be wise in what you put in it. Smart choices include:

• Snacks
• Sunblock
• First-aid supplies
• A favorite toy for each grandkid
• Emergency phone numbers

 

Though you do want to bring enough, make sure you’re not packing so much that your bag becomes burdensome to carry throughout the day.

Find Out What Your Options Are

If you have special needs, it’s important to find out what your options are before you head to the parks. For example, there are a few rides at Universal^™ that allow oxygen tanks on the rides. Assistive listening devices are available at guest relations booths. These devices help amplify the sound on a variety of attractions, and there are also personal transmitters that can caption songs and information in queues and attractions. Some shows have sign language interpreters too! Do a little research before you head out so you’ll know how your unique needs will be met.

Use All Your Resources!

Don’t assume that because you raised your own kids you know the best way to discipline and/or reward your grandchildren. With the gadgets kids have these days, plus the higher focus on safety and security, it’s simply not the world it used to be. Talk to their parents in-depth before you leave and be sure everyone’s on the same page.