Magic Kingdom ParkvsUniversal Islands of Adventure
Both Magic Kingdom and Universal's Islands of Adventure are rated highly by professional reviewers. On balance, Magic Kingdom ranks significantly better than Universal's Islands of Adventure. Magic Kingdom has a TripExpert Score of 89 with positive reviews from 5 reviewers including Michelin Guide, Frommer's and Travel + Leisure.
Magic Kingdom Park
Concierge
Frommer's
Lonely Planet
Travel + Leisure
Michelin Guide
Condé Nast Traveler
Travel + Leisure
3111 World Drive, Orlando, FL 32830
From $0/night
"A larger version of California's original Disneyland, its idealized mock-up of a prototypical Main Street USA spills into several themed areas."
i
The Kingdom experiences its biggest crowds on Mondays, so plan your trip accordingly.
"The Magic Kingdom still attracts millions from around the world, drawn here by the opportunity to experience the fun and fantasy that only Disney can deliver." Full review
Top choice
"When people think of WDW, they picture the Magic Kingdom, from the iconic Cinderella's Castle to Space Mountain, the Haunted Mansion and Pirates of the Caribbean." Full review
"The busiest theme park in the world (with somewhere around 17 million annual visitors), the Magic Kingdom is home base to the most famous rides in the Disney pantheon." Full review
3 Stars
"The signature park of Walt Disney World, Magic Kingdom echoes the fantasy atmosphere of a fairy tale." Full review
"It’s hard to imagine anyone having a bad time at the Magic Kingdom—it really does have almost-universal appeal, especially for families...there are quieter spaces to relax if it all gets too much." Full review
"Magic Kingdom is the most-visited theme park in the world, and right now, it's celebrating 50 years since opening as the first Disney World theme park in Florida"
20 Best Amusement Parks in the World
March 6, 2022
Universal Islands of Adventure
Concierge
Michelin Guide
Where
Travel + Leisure
Condé Nast Traveler
Travel + Leisure
6000 Universal Blvd., Orlando, FL 32819
From $0/night
"Considered by aficionados to be the best-designed amusement park on earth, IOA's designers spared little expense."
3 Stars
"Boats depart from Port of Entry... for the five themed islands set around a large lagoon, though most visitors prefer to walk." Full review
"Everyone has fun with six uniquely themed islands: Seuss Landing, The Lost Continent, Jurassic Park, Toon Lagoon, Marvel Super Hero Island and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter." Full review
"This addition to Universal Studios Florida opened in 1999 and trumpeted the site's conversion into the Universal Orlando Resort." Full review
"This is a world-class theme park with some of the most technologically advanced attractions you'll find anywhere in the world." Full review
"Islands of Adventure has lands spanning a wide range of themes from kid-friendly Dr. Seuss to popular Harry Potter. Park highlights include thrilling rides like Jurassic World VelociCoaster"
20 Best Amusement Parks in the World
March 6, 2022