How to Tell Your Kids You’re Going to Universal Orlando

Few things compare to the joy of telling your kids you’re taking them on a Universal Orlando adventure. Whether your family loves Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, or Minions, the reveal can be just as magical as the trip itself. Here are a few creative ways to make the announcement special.

1. Deliver a Hogwarts Letter

If your family loves the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, this one is fantastic. You can buy personalized Hogwarts acceptance letters on Etsy, or make your own using parchment-style paper. If you don’t have any on hand, you can stain regular printer paper with tea bags for a vintage look. Roll up the letter, tie it with a ribbon, and hand-deliver it by “owl post.”

The letter might read something like this:

“Dear [child’s name],

We are pleased to inform you that you have been accepted to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Your term begins soon at Universal Orlando Resort. Please pack your bags for a magical adventure.”

You can even tuck the letter into an envelope with a wax seal and leave it by their breakfast plate or on the front porch for them to discover.

2. Gift it for Christmas

If you want to give this trip as a Christmas gift, instead of traditional gifts, wrap up travel essentials your family will need for the trip. Think park lanyards, ponchos, sunscreen, refillable water bottles, or themed T-shirts. You could even include a few fun extras like a wand or a Minion plush. Maybe a new suitcase?

Label each gift with clues and let the kids unwrap them one by one until they piece it together. Finish with a card or box that says, “We’re going to Universal Orlando!” It’s a fun way to make the holiday even more magical and kick off the countdown to your trip.

3. Universal Scavenger Hunt

Create a scavenger hunt around the house with small clues that lead to the big reveal. Each clue could represent something from the parks. For example, a toy dinosaur could lead to “Jurassic Park,” a banana could hint at “Despicable Me,” and a wand could represent “The Wizarding World.”

End the hunt with a small gift or sign that says, “We’re going to Universal Orlando!” If you have park merchandise or themed shirts, that’s a fun way to make the finale even more exciting.

4. Movie Night Reveal

Plan a family movie night featuring Universal favorites like “Harry Potter,” “Jurassic Park,” or “Despicable Me.” Serve themed snacks and drinks, and then end the night by announcing the trip. You could wrap the park tickets or a printed photo of the Universal globe and hand it over as the surprise.

5. Suitcase Surprise

Pack a small carry-on for each child with travel items like sunglasses, a Universal shirt, or a small toy from one of their favorite franchises. Add a note that says, “Start packing! We’re going to Universal Orlando!” You can place the suitcase on their bed or the kitchen table for them to discover.