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
8/10
3111 World Drive, Orlando, FL 32830
From $0/night
Concierge Concierge
"A larger version of California's original Disneyland, its idealized mock-up of a prototypical Main Street USA spills into several themed areas."
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The Kingdom experiences its biggest crowds on Mondays, so plan your trip accordingly.
Frommer's Frommer's
"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
Lonely Planet Lonely Planet
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
Travel + Leisure Travel + Leisure
"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
Michelin Guide Michelin Guide
3 Stars
"The signature park of Walt Disney World, Magic Kingdom echoes the fantasy atmosphere of a fairy tale." Full review
Condé Nast Traveler Condé Nast Traveler
"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
Travel + Leisure Travel + Leisure
"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"
Universal Islands of Adventure
8/10
6000 Universal Blvd., Orlando, FL 32819
From $0/night
Concierge Concierge
"Considered by aficionados to be the best-designed amusement park on earth, IOA's designers spared little expense."
Michelin Guide Michelin Guide
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
Where Where
"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
Travel + Leisure Travel + Leisure
"This addition to Universal Studios Florida opened in 1999 and trumpeted the site's conversion into the Universal Orlando Resort." Full review
Condé Nast Traveler Condé Nast Traveler
"This is a world-class theme park with some of the most technologically advanced attractions you'll find anywhere in the world." Full review
Travel + Leisure Travel + Leisure
"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"

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