Universal Orlando bears a superficial resemblance to Disney World in that it is a multi-park, multi-resort vacation destination. But whereas Disney sprawls over a vast area, Universal Orlando is comfortably compact, allowing its guests to spend less time getting around and more time enjoying themselves. And while Disney World harkens back to an earlier time, Universal is very much of the moment, with an eye to the future.

There are two theme parks here. The original movie-studio-themed Universal Studios Florida (USF) is still going strong. It continues to add new thrills using the very latest in technology. Almost literally next door is Islands of Adventure (IOA), an attraction that takes the whole notion of “theme park” to the next level, with awesome rides and fine dining.

CityWalk is an entertainment and restaurant complex that lies between the theme parks. This is very much an adult experience, although several restaurants will also appeal to the younger set. CityWalk recognizes the ethnic diversity of America in a way that is new to theme park entertainment. It also sets a new standard for luxury, with an ultra-gourmet restaurant. And CityWalk rocks. It boasts the world’s largest Hard Rock Cafe and Hard Rock Live, a performance space that hosts some of pop music’s biggest names.

The clearest signal that Universal intends to go mano-a-mano with the Mouse is the proliferation of themed, on-property resort hotels. Portofino Bay Hotel has set its sights on becoming Orlando’s premiere resort hotel. This ultra-luxury property is a photographic reproduction of that favorite destination of the international jet set, Portofino, Italy. Here you can unwind in the splendor of high-tech suites and dine in a world-class restaurant before catching a complimentary motor launch to the theme parks. More casual is the Hard Rock Hotel, which radiates a hip California sensibility and is just steps away from the front gate to Universal Studios Florida. The Royal Pacific Resort evokes the romance of far-off Bali, just minutes away from the theme parks by foot or boat. Two additional properties are planned but they do not yet have names, let alone projected completion dates.

Just a stone’s throw away is Wet ’n Wild, a water park that Universal now owns. It has not been officially rolled into the “Universal Orlando” brand, but it is included in some ticket options and is well worth a visit. In addition to the hundreds of acres on which Universal Orlando sits, Universal owns more land nearby, fueling rumors of yet more future expansion.

Universal Orlando is a family destination. But, unlike some parks we could name, Universal seems to recognize that “families” come in all sorts of different packages. Parents with little ones will find this an almost ideal place for their kids. And yet families with teenagers will not have to worry about complaints that the rides are “dorky.” Best of all, adults who have yet to have kids, or who have grown kids, or who have left the kids at home, or who never plan to have kids at all can come to Universal Orlando without feeling that they’re in a kiddie park. And those snobbish sophisticates who think theme parks are beneath them may find themselves won over by the dazzling architecture, the luxurious accommodations, the gourmet food, and the wide array of nighttime entertainment.

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