How Does Child Swap Work at Universal Orlando?
Traveling to Universal Orlando with kids?
Not every child is tall enough (or ready) for the thrill rides. That’s where Universal’s Child Swap system comes in.
It allows adults to take turns riding without waiting in line twice, so everyone enjoys the park together. Honestly, Child Swap benefits the child who wants to ride the most, because they get to ride TWICE (once with each adult).
How It Works:
Step #1 – Enter the ride queue together.
Let the attendant know BEFORE entering the ride that you’d like to use Child Swap, as different rides have different procedures. It’s important to know what to expect before you enter the queue.
Step #2 – Arrive at the loading platform of the ride.
Once here, one of the adults will be guided to a family waiting room with the non-riding child(ren).
The other adult and child(ren) will ride the ride.
Most Child Swap rooms are indoors, air-conditioned, and include benches or chairs, along with a TV playing cartoons or ride-themed videos. You’re welcome to bring a stroller, snacks, or entertainment for your child while you wait.
Step #3 – Swap!
After the ride, the group swaps. The second adult gets their turn to ride, usually via a short accommodations line or directly at the load area. The best part is for the riding child, as they get to go on again with the other adult!
Step #4 – Everyone meets after the ride.
After both parties have ridden, you exit the attraction as a group.
A Quick Example:
I am using our family of four as an example, which includes myself, my wife, daughter, and son.
Our son isn’t tall enough to ride Velocicoaster, but he loves Jurassic World and wants to see all the exciting things in the queue. Additionally, both my wife and I want to ride Velocicoaster.
Before getting in line, we let the attendant know we want to use the Child Swap, who informs us that there is a room prior to boarding the coaster.
We stand in line, enjoying the incredible theming of the ride. Our son especially loves the raptor heads sticking out.
At the boarding area, I take my son to the Velocicoaster waiting room, while my wife and daughter enjoy the ride.
After they are done, they find me, and I am able to ride it with my daughter, who gets to go again. Once completed, we exit the ride and continue on our way!
Why Child Swap at Universal Orlando is Great…
I love that Universal has rooms specifically designed for swapping children. It means that families get to stay together and enjoy the queues. There are some amazing queues to walk through (the Harry Potter rides are incredible).
Lastly, ALL of the rides at Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios, and Epic Universe participate in the Child Swap program. So, you don’t have to miss out on anything if one of your kids doesn’t want to go on a certain ride.
What questions do you have?
I’m a Universal Orlando Travel Agent and would love to help. Ask below, and I promise to get you an answer.
