Considering a student group trip to Universal Orlando? As someone who recently vacationed there, I would highly recommend it. Your students have the opportunity to attend a variety of educational programs and tours at the park, or simply enjoy the park as I did.
Universal Orlando is split into two separate theme parks connected by CityWalk, which offers shopping, dining and bars. The two theme parks are Universal Studios Florida, where you will find rides based on famous Universal movies, such as Despicable Me Minion Mayhem and Transformers: The Ride; and Universal’s Islands of Adventure, where you can experience the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Jurassic Park.
During my time at Universal Orlando, I discovered activities that students would love. At the Horror Make-Up Show in Universal Studios Florida, I learned how filmmakers have created gory horror movie scenes. Although I was a little nervous at first, the hosts were hilarious; I would actually consider this show to be more humorous than frightening. Personally, I enjoyed the part when an audience volunteer allowed the demonstrator to cut off her arm using a special knife. At Jurassic Park in Universal’s Islands of Adventure, my younger brother and I experimented with DNA and discovered what’s inside dinosaur eggs in the lab. We also had a blast playing in a quiz show game where we answered dinosaur trivia questions, with a little help from other guests.
Aside from the everyday activities that are available to guests, your students can partake in exciting educational programs and guided tours. Whether you are bringing a marching band, dance team, or students who are interested in filmmaking, weather, culinary arts or science and physics, your student group will walk away from the experience with more knowledge.
Guided Tours
Behind the Adventure: Discover the Science and Technology of Universal’s Islands of Adventure
On this tour, your students will learn the real-life applications of physics, technology and general sciences that were used to design and build this theme park. Your group will be able to check out how The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man and The Incredible Hulk Coaster work, and learn how literature plays a role in Universal’s Islands of Adventure.
Special FX: Learn the Secrets of Movie Making at Universal Studios
Your students will learn about the arts and sciences used to create special effects both in motion pictures and in Universal Studios’ attractions, such as Revenge of the Mummy and the Horror Make-Up Show. Also, your group will get backstage access to the soundstages and production facilities.
Learning Programs
Ride Design: Innovation in Motion
In the Ride Design program, your students will participate in an in-depth discussion about ride design and the application of science and physics when building attractions. They will also learn about what engineers at Universal Orlando use on a daily basis to design state-of-the-art attractions.
Career Preparation: Planning for Your Future
Your student group will meet Universal Orlando staffing recruiters to learn how to build a successful cover letter and resume. They will also discuss responsible social networking, professional etiquette, leadership and how to market to potential employers.
Marketing and Sales: Getting the Message Out
The Marketing and Sales program teaches students about the effective marketing and sales campaigns created to promote Universal Orlando Resort. Students learn about advertising, group sales, branding, marketing, promotions and the campaigns for attractions such as The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Our Weather: Planning for Nature
Meet with an Orlando TV meteorologist and see what goes into understanding weather patterns and the impact the weather can have on theme parks.
Culinary Arts: Recipe for Success
Learn basic food preparation principles, culinary techniques and culinary art strategy in a fun and hands-on environment. You can also have a Lunch and Learn Pizza Party.
Student Performers and Music Groups
Your students can not only visit and learn from Universal Orlando, but also take the stage and perform. Universal STARS Performance Program is the music performance program that puts your group in the spotlight. Opportunities are available for marching bands, concert bands, dance teams, choirs or other performing groups.
Stage Performances
At the CityWalk® entertainment complex, non-marching groups can entertain crowds of Universal visitors. Whether you are a jazz band, show choir, concert choir, orchestra or dance team, this experience will leave your performers with wonderful lifelong memories.
Marching
Represent your school as your marching band performs along the streets lined with cheering theme park guests. The first thing I saw when I walked into Universal Studios Florida was a parade. It immediately put me in a great mood and got me excited about what else I would find around every corner. I personally witnessed countless guests wander the streets looking for entertainment, and this is a perfect opportunity for your musically-talented student group to get the recognition they deserve.
Sound Design: Music and The Art of Foley
Coming to Universal for a band trip? Be sure to check out this workshop. Designed to reinforce National Standards for Music Education and Common Core State Standards, your students will be assigned an actual movie scene, record sound effects and experience what it’s like to be a working movie musician.
Universal Orlando is not your average theme park. There is something for your students to discover and explore around every corner, whatever their interests may be. Think outside the box for your next student trip. Combine the excitement of an amusement park with educational tours and programs to create a group trip your students will never forget.
