Usually a mouse and castle park girly, I was excited to embark on my first stay at Universal property. While this was (by far) not the first time I had been to Universal Orlando Resort, it was the first of many experiences for me.

Upon arrival at Lowes Sapphire Falls Hotel, I was greeted by an 80-degree day with palm trees...a welcome change to the frigid winter we have endured in Upstate New York. This resort is the ideal size; everything is so convenient. Honestly this hotel is beautiful, the public guest areas feel like paradise. There is even a Universal Studios gift shop right across from the concierge, perfect for pre-park or last-minute souvenir shopping.

Ahead of checking into my room, I enjoyed a delicious lunch inside the hotel at Amatista Cookhouse. Once ready, I headed to my King Bed Pool View chamber located right off the main lobby. Gorgeous vista alert! Following the beach theme of this hotel, the room made me feel like I was on a tropical getaway.

The pool at Loews Sapphire Falls resort.

Refreshed after a great night's sleep, I woke up ready to begin my park day. It's confession time. I have been looking forward to visiting their new park, Epic Universe, since the day it was announced. I cannot remember the last time I was so jazzed about something. It's easy to be disappointed when you've built something up in your head...but you'll be surprised and happy to hear I have no notes.

Staying on property at Universal meant that I could get into the park an hour early. You know I headed straight to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — Ministry of Magic to get to Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry. Have you ever wanted to travel back in time to Paris circa the 1920s? Cool....me too. Well, Epic Universe allows you to do this with a touch of magic. The hour and a half wait in line felt short because I was taking in every single detail of the queue. After experiencing the attraction, I ate at Café L’air De La Sirène. It was so easy to use the app to order and, since I used the allergy notice, a chef even came out to speak to me...and he was French! I had the most delectable sandwich on an actual Gluten-Free baguette...10 points for Gryffindor!

From here, I headed over to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD. Entering through the famous green pipe and into every gamer's dream, I was suddenly surrounded by bright colors and cute characters. Utilizing the single-riders line, I was able to bypass the long wait time for Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge. I honestly don't know what my score was...I was too busy looking at everything around me. Eventually I was able to make my own wish come true and meet Princess Peach outside of her castle... so I guess there was a castle at this park 😉

The author shares a moment with Princess Peach. 

Next on the list... Dark Universe. Admittedly, this is what I was looking forward to most. As a scaredy cat who loves Halloween, I've never braved the Universal Halloween Horror Nights. Dark Universe, however, is a portal that explores the world of the classic Universal Monsters like Frankenstein's Monster and his bride, Dracula, and the Wolfman. It's just scary enough to satisfy me...but not enough for me to panic! My most anticipated ride, Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, was SO MUCH FUN! Tip: If you're easily spooked...don't go on this ride, as it is not for the faint of heart. If you do, sit on the outside of the four-seater. Another tip: While this portal is exciting during the day, it's better at night for obvious reasons. 

How To Train Your Dragon - Isle of Berk was well done. I chose to try the rollercoaster, Hiccup's Wing Gliders. It was so cute, immersing you in the Viking lure and allowing you to pass by beloved characters Hiccup and Toothless while enjoying a very thrilling (and smooth) ride. Afterwards I ducked inside Mead Hall for a refreshing beverage and a chance to get out of the Florida sun.

A scenic view at Isle of Berk.

Closing the evening was the nighttime water show in Celestial Park, a beautiful way to end this truly incredible day.

I'd be remiss if I didn't mention my run-in with Woody Woodpecker the next day in the hotel lobby on my way to CityWalk! What a cute and unexpected photo op! I should also mention how easy it is to get to and from the parks' other destinations. Depending on where you are headed, you can take a bus or a water taxi. It took a lot of guessing out of my first stay and I felt like a pro.

Universal CityWalk was nothing short of a blast. Celebrating Mardi Gras, I got to don some beads as I was welcomed by two stilt walkers!  Heading over to Pat O'Briens for a fun time with dueling pianos. Playing classics like “Piano Man” and “Bohemian Rhapsody”, these pianists were nothing short of talented. I even got my own request played...so I naturally sang loudly and lost my voice. This wasn't well timed as I was on to the karaoke bar next. CityWalk's Rising Star is not your average venue. If you're brave enough to put your name in, you get to sing with a live band and backup vocalists. I have wanted to do this for many years. Bucket list item checked!

This stay, though only three nights, was one I will remember for the rest of my life. From Wizards and Dragons to Monsters and... Plumbers, Universal Orlando Resort...you got a star 🌟

A view of Celestial Park's dancing fountains in the evening.
 

Emily Gnacik is an Editor at AAA Hudson Valley.