Two of the most recognizable theme parks in the world, but both have something in common. They are both rivals with each other. For almost 40 years, these two parks have been butting heads with each other, but which one is the superior one? This article will show some pros and cons of each theme park.
Pros of Disneyland
Many people believe that Disney is popular because of nostalgia, which is mostly true. Around 75% of people who visit Disneyland go to remember childhood memories or try to recreate their childhood with their own kids. If you want to recall good memories at Disney, maybe a quick return will refresh your memory. Disneyland has also been a bit more kid friendly than Universal. Disney has some more recognizable characters that most children love, such as Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, etc. Most of the rides at Disney are directed towards kids because almost 30 rides have no height restrictions which allows all members of the family to ride. Disneyland is perfect for families with younger children or anyone who wants to experience the magic of Disney.
Cons of Disneyland
Disneyland might sound perfect, but anything with pros has cons. The thing that keeps most people out is the ticket prices. The prices range from $104 to $224 for one ticket. If you have a family of 5, the cheapest you can pay is $520 for one day there. That’s not even including prices for food, merch or fast passes. You could easily spend around $1000 in one day, which can leave a dent in most wallets. Most families are not able to afford to visit Disney once in their life. Another reason is how overcrowded it can be. The average number of visitors a day is close to 50,000 people. Imagine trying to get around that many people when running to a ride. There is also a huge problem with the ride lines, how long they are. Most lines in the middle of the day last for 90+ minutes for just one 2 minute ride. It is very frustrating having to waste most of your time at Disneyland in a line. All these things add up to multiple toddlers having tantrums for families, which can make the day very stressful.
Pros of Universal
Universal might not be as whimsical as Disneyland, but that is actually a pro for some people. Many younger people such as teens or young adults prefer Universal because it is not as child oriented as Disney. Many of the rides are also more thrilling. Universal has more roller coasters that are fast and scary then slow and peaceful like Disneyland. Also many of the wait times for rides are way shorter than Disneyland. The wait times average from 20 to 60 mins depending on the ride. That is shorter than anything at Disneyland. The price is expensive but still cheaper than some places. The price for 1 day tickets range from $99 to $109 for 1 person. That is about half the price for 1 day at Disneyland. Universal is great for families who want a less childish or expensive experience.
Cons of Universal
Many of the cons for Universal Studio Hollywood are very similar or the same for Disneyland. Universal is also affected by the price but in a different way. Many of the food and merchandise could add up to more than 1 ticket. If a person buys food it is around $50 to $100 and for merch it is $30 to $100+. The design of the park can be a bit confusing at times. The theme park is split up into 2 sections, the upper and lower part. It takes about 20 mins just to go up and down escalators, which can make it hard for people to get to a certain ride on time. The rides are more thrilling than Disneyland, but they heavily rely on 3D or 4D. This can disappoint many people who just want a classic thrilling ride. At Universal Hollywood they don’t have many rides. Compared to Universal Orlando or Disneyland, Universal Hollywood looks small with the 10 rides they have. Universal might be a bit disappointing than what many people imagine what it will be like.
Both theme parks are great for different things. Disneyland is great for families with young children who want to experience magic or want to feel nostalgic. Universal Hollywood is better for people who want a bit more thrilling rides or want to see things from movies that might not be meant for kids. Both have their pros and cons but it really is up to the person going. Which do you prefer, Comment Below!
Treehouse Dad. “Universal Studios Hollywood Review – Family Trip.” Treehouse Dad, 1 Oct. 2024, treehousedad.com/universal-studios-hollywood-review/.
Dover, Amanda. “Is Disney World Worth It? – This Crafty Mom.” This Crafty Mom – Free Preschool Lesson Plans, DIY Silhouette Craft Projects & Tutorials, Free SVGs, Free Printables, a Whole Lotta Mom Wisdom and More!, 1 Nov. 2022, www.thiscraftymom.com/is-disney-world-worth-it/.
