Universal for kids

Question

Hello! My family of 4 (including a 5 and 7 year old) are coming to LA and SD in late March. I had been planning to spend a night in Anaheim for Disneyland, but now I’m thinking maybe Universal is a better choice.

They are tall (45” and 55”) and huge Minions fans plus they like Mario and dinosaurs more than any Disney characters. They did fine at Magic kingdom but haven’t done thrill rides before. Has anyone brought kids these age to Universal and they’ve loved it? Did you find it worth the price? We would go midweek to hopefully have less crowds.

Answer

Universal Studios Hollywood can be an excellent choice for kids ages 5 and 7, especially when their interests line up with what Universal does best — Minions, Mario, and dinosaurs. Many families find that Universal offers a more focused experience for kids who prefer characters and franchises outside classic Disney. Given their heights, your kids will also qualify for most of the key rides, making the park much more worthwhile.

Below is a detailed breakdown to help you compare Universal with Disneyland and decide whether it’s worth the time and cost.

How Universal Studios fits for 5–7 year olds

Universal has fewer total rides than Disneyland, but many of its attractions are heavily themed and highly engaging for kids who love animated movies and action worlds. For Minions fans in particular, Universal has a dedicated area that’s a huge hit at this age. Super Nintendo World has also become a top destination for young Mario lovers, although it does get crowded.

Despicable Me Minion Mayhem — Height requirement is 40”, so both your kids can ride. It’s one of the most kid-friendly and fun attractions in the whole park.
Super Silly Fun Land — A huge outdoor play area with splash zones, rides, and climbing structures, perfect for younger kids needing a break from lines.
Super Nintendo World — Kids who love Mario usually adore this area. It’s extremely immersive with interactive games, character meet-and-greets, and the Mario Kart ride (42” requirement; both kids qualify).
Jurassic World Ride — Height requirement is 42”. Your 55" child will confidently ride, and your 45" child just makes the minimum. Note: this is a boat drop-style ride; exciting but not too extreme. Many younger children enjoy it.

How children respond to Universal’s ride intensity

Universal rides tend to be more screen-based and have more motion simulation than Disney. Kids who are new to “big thrills” sometimes find them intense, but most families with 5–7 year olds report that their kids handle it well — especially when they already enjoy action-heavy movies or shows. Since your kids did fine at Magic Kingdom, that’s a very positive sign.

Harry Potter rides are usually too intense for younger kids, though your taller child may ask to try them. They are optional and easy to skip.
The Studio Tour is relaxing, longer, and entertaining — great for kids who enjoy movies and behind-the-scenes fun.
Simulators (Transformers, Simpsons) may be too jerky for some young kids. You can choose based on their comfort level.

Crowds, timing, and value

Going midweek in late March is a smart choice — spring break crowds won’t peak until later in the month. Universal is smaller than Disneyland, and many families find they can comfortably finish the park in one day, especially with kids who focus more on the themed lands than every ride.

Super Nintendo World usually requires early Line Entry or virtual queue; arriving at opening helps significantly.
Minion attractions are near the entrance, making them easy to revisit if your kids love them.
Price-wise, Universal is often cheaper than Disneyland for a one-day visit, and with your kids’ interests, the value can feel higher.

When Universal is the better choice

You may want to choose Universal if your kids:

Are very excited for Minions, Mario, and dinosaurs
Don’t need lots of slower, gentle rides
Don’t mind noise, screens, or 3D effects
Prefer highly themed worlds over character parades

When Disneyland is still the better option

You may want to stick with Disneyland if your kids:

Get motion sick easily
Prefer rides that are calmer and outdoors
Love lots of small kid-friendly attractions (which Universal lacks)
Would enjoy meeting more characters and having a full-day magical “theme park” experience

Overall recommendation

Given your kids’s particular interests — Minions, Mario, and dinosaurs — Universal Studios Hollywood is arguably the better match. They meet the height requirements, the themes align perfectly, and at this age it can feel absolutely magical without being overwhelming. It also fits well into a midweek schedule with fewer crowds.

If you have time for just one park on the trip, Universal seems like the more meaningful choice for your kids' current interests. If you have time for two, you could even do Universal in LA and a one-day Disneyland visit from Anaheim afterward.

Universal for kids

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