The Miscellaneous Thought Thread

[Phroobar]

MK trading Rivers of America for cartoon cars has killed that park for me. My CA family was equally dismayed. On their recent trip to join me in Orlando for a few days, we did Epic Universe, Animal Kingdom, IoA, Epcot and USF. Stayed at Sapphire Falls. Had a fantastic time.

This is a factor I think could keep gaining traction. WDW and UOR are becoming more and more like each other as WDW keeps tearing out the Original Generations attractions/themes and Universal keeps becoming more well-rounded and diverse in its offerings. Between the two resorts, there are seven of the world’s most impressive theme parks—a collection with something for just about every age and interest. Pick and choose! Combine the bubbles! Wear Epic Universe shirts at Epcot and vice-versa! Enjoy the best attractions Univisney Florida has to offer!

If I where to go back to Florida, that is exactly the parks I would go to.

 

[Phroobar]

Went hiking up in Griffith Park this morning. All of this rain made the mountains lush and the air clean. Even saw a couple of coyotes on the trail.
View attachment 899458

Can't find that in any theme park

 

[Rich T]

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The og ROA exists at DL. WDW has many rivers and boats to enjoy and ft wilderness is classic frontierland come to life. USF is the worst park of the 7 easily though.

For me, the continuing cartoon-ification of MK keeps erasing the variety and historic “groundedness” of the areas that were necessary to make the park feel balanced. WDW does have many rivers and boats… but the best, most emotional and story-driven river/boat combo of the whole property (and one of the few MK features I thought was superior to the DL original) is gone.

Totally agree that USF is currently the weakest of the 7 parks—unless you go for an event. I think Universal needs to double down on the Studio’s identity as the “Party Park,” which is where the place really comes to life. During non-special-event periods, it needs help. Combining it with Citywalk and a stay at a water taxi hotel makes for a good day.

I’m hoping the new coaster greatly helps it toward a new era where it’s more than just the back door to IoA after doing Diagon Alley.