While Universal Orlando is definitely all about the fun and thrilling rides, one of my son’s favorite things to do anytime we visit a theme park is meet characters from his favorite movies and television shows. On our trip to Universal Orlando he was excited to stand next to a Transformer and hug a Minion. And I have to admit I couldn’t wait either. Part of what makes theme parks like Universal Orlando special is that just for a moment they allow you feel fully immersed in another world, through incredible theming or through seeing your favorite characters walking down the street.
Meeting characters at Universal Orlando, reminded me a lot of meeting characters when I was a kid. There was no appointment to make you just had to time it right and hope that the line wasn’t too long for your favorite character. Luckily during our trip the lines for characters weren’t long and we were able to see many of our favorites.
Where to Meet Characters at Universal Orlando
Transformers
Right around the corner from the Transformer’s ride, you will find Optimus Prime, Megatron and Bumble Bee waiting to meet you. These characters run pretty much continuously all day, with a short break when they change characters. We were able to meet Optimus Prime and come back ten minutes later to meet Bumble Bee. We also saw Megatron another day when we exited the ride.
Despicable Me Characters, including Minions
The characters from the Despicable Me movies can be found in 3 different places around the park. The easiest place to spot them is as you exit Minion Mayhem. They will be standing off to the side just before you enter the gift shop.
We also spotted the Minions and Gru near the entrance to Woody Woodpecker’s Kidzone area.
The Minions in prison costume were also spotted near the entrance to the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, at production central. Look for them near the grass.
They can also be seen in the Character Party Zone in Hollywood that runs throughout the day and involves character photo ops in Hollywood.
Shrek and Donkey
Look for Shrek and Donkey in Production Central right across from where you can meet the Transformers.
SpongeBob and Friends
SpongeBob and friends can be found in Woody Woodpecker’s KidZone. They can also be seen in the Character Party Zone in Hollywood that runs throughout the day and involves character photo ops in Hollywood.
The Simpsons Characters
You can meet the characters from The Simpson’s in Springfield. Springfield was one of our favorite themed areas of Universal Orlando. I know everyone freaks over Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade, with good reason. but as children of the 90’s my husband and I were geeking out on how perfect Springfield is.
We saw Lisa and Bart near the entrance to Springfield.
We saw Krusty the Clown and Side Show Bob across from Kang and Kodos Twirl n’ Hurl.
Character Party Zone
Throughout the day characters appear on floats and for photo ops at the Character Party Zone. These happen at a variety of times and you can see characters from The Secret Life of Pets, Despicable Me, SpongeBob Squarepants and Dora & Diego.
Also keep your eyes out in Hollywood for appearances by Doc Brown from Back to the Future, along with lots of props from Back to the Future.
Make sure to check out our other Universal Orlando Resort posts:
Check back later for where to meet characters at Universal’s Islands of Adventure.
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