Overlooked Experiences at Universal Orlando

If you’ve spent time on our site, you’re aware of the importance of tips and secrets to plan your day and spend as little time wandering as possible. Well when you go through your plans before 11am…what do you do before lunch? What do you do in the evening before dinner? What about that awkward time between 8pm and fireworks?

These attractions are not just amazing experiences, but they are also great to put into a relaxing day plan!


When you think about an ‘Overlooked’ Universal experience, it actually has a definition and criteria:

  1. You can’t get an Express Pass for it
  2. 9 out of 10 dentists would recommend it! (a little #StepsToMagic Humour)

Overlooked Experiences at Islands of Adventures

The Mystic Fountain

Carved of ancient stone atop the mysterious underground geysers of The Lost Continent, this feisty fountain in Sindbad’s Bazaar is home to a mischievous water spirit who speaks to (and splashes) those brave enough to match wits.

When awakened, the fountain plays music and jokes around, interacting with all who approach. Toss in a coin and you might get your wish—or a surprise squirt of H2O.


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Frog Choir

Hear the vocal stylings of this small choir of Hogwarts™ students, accompanied by the smooth bass rumbles of their giant throaty frogs. The silver-tongued students—one each from Gryffindor™, Slytherin™, Hufflepuff™, and Ravenclaw™ houses—perform familiar wizarding songs with their croaking counterparts, and an a cappella flourish.

Related Article – Things to do in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Butterbeer Photo Shoot

Butterbeer at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Diagon Alley
Butterbeer at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Diagon Alley (Image: Dustin Fuhs / StepstoMagic)

If you’re a fan of theme parks, one of the things that you have to do is remember the good times. Some of us take pics with characters and cool backdrops…but then you have folks like me who tend to do a full photo shoot with a Butterbeer!

Be a fan. Take a pic!

Raptor Encounter in Jurassic Park

Raptor Encounter at Islands of Adventure (Image: Dustin Fuhs / StepstoMagic)

Jurassic Park has always been a fun place to explore. From the hidden gems inside of the Discovery Centre to the Raptor Encounter, you should 100% try to come face to face with a dino!


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Overlooked Experiences at Universal Studios Florida

Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees

Sway and groove to the dulcet tones of wizarding world sensation (and Molly Weasley’s favorite singer), Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees. The swinging show features never-before-heard songs including ‘A Cauldron Full Of Hot, Strong Love’, ‘You Stole My Cauldron But You Can’t Have My Heart’, and ‘You Charmed The Heart Right Out Of Me’.

Knight Bus

Parked on the London Embankment is the purple, three-storied Knight Bus™, which stranded witches and wizards flag down with their wands for emergency transport. Passers-by can look in the windows and see curtains, beds, and an ornate chandelier. They’ll also hear chatter from the talkative shrunken head hanging over the steering wheel, including occasional conversation with the bus conductor.

Related Article – Best Character Experiences at Universal Orlando

The Tonight Show Museum

Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon
Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon™ – Photo by Steps to Magic

When Jimmy moved in, the history of the Tonight Show came with him.

From desks to suits and everything in between, spending time in the queue line for Race Through NYC Starring Jimmy Fallon is worth the virtual pass alone.

Oh, and say hi to #HashtagThePanda for us!

Geek Out in Springfield

Bort Keychain at Springfield USA in Universal Studios Florida
Bort Keychain at Springfield USA in Universal Studios Florida (Image: Dustin Fuhs / StepstoMagic)

With the Simpsons into their 321st season (or so it feels), there are continuous opportunities to spot the details in and around Springfield USA.

From the 7 Duff’s to the statue of Jebediah Springfield, you’ll be able to play with the world that will always give you more to explore when you look harder.

Oh, and get a photo of a ‘Bort’ nametag in the Kwik-e-Mart! Classic

Final Thoughts

Still wanting more ideas for experience on your next Universal Orlando Resort vacation? I love sharing more and more content to keep your trip planning juices flowing to build the excitement!

Dustin Fuhshttp://www.stepstomagic.com
I’m Dustin Fuhs, a theme park fanatic that has created this platform to showcase my passion, tools and opinions to create a fun and interactive experience for everyone who visits. My goal is to help you and your family have the most magical experience at Walt Disney World. In reading my articles and ideas, I hope that you can find some fantastic ways to bring your dreams into reality!

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