Best Things to Do with Kids at Universal Orlando's CityWalk

Enjoy a round at Hollywood Drive-In Golf. Photo courtesy of Universal Orlando
Enjoy a round at Hollywood Drive-In Golf. Photo courtesy of Universal Orlando
7/2/21 - By Charlotte B

Universal Orlando's theme parks offer a ton of kid-focused entertainment, but what about CityWalk?

Self-proclaimed as "The Epicenter of Awesome," CityWalk is Universal’s entertainment district, complete with dining, shopping, live music, and more. It is primarily known for its nightlife, but there are many things at CityWalk families can enjoy as well, from miniature golf and movies to themed dining and donuts. Read on for things to do with kids while visiting Universal's CityWalk.

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Kid-Friendly Things to Do at Universal's CityWalk in Orlando


Sing as a family at Rising Star karaoke. Photo courtesy of Universal Orlando

CityWalk’s Rising Star

This karaoke venue offers free admission and is open to all ages on Thursdays and Sundays (ages 18+ Fridays and Saturdays). Take the stage to sing your favorite songs, with help from a live band and backup singers.

Hard Rock Live

Orlando’s Hard Rock Live is a concert venue that hosts a variety of music and entertainment. Check the Hard Rock Live event calendar for the dates you will be visiting for any family-friendly shows that might be on the schedule.

Hollywood Drive-In Golf

Choose from two 18-hole courses at this miniature golf attraction – one course complete with a sci-fi theme (Invaders from Planet Putt), the other with a haunted theme (The Haunting of Ghostly Greens). Families can putt their way through movie scenes that contain interactive elements and special effects.

Splash Pad

There is a free splash ground area located in the center of CityWalk. Bring a change of clothes and let the kids splash around and cool off after a day at Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure.

Universal Cinemark

For a rainy day activity, take in a flick on the big screen at Universal’s Cinemark theater. Seating has been recently renovated with oversized recliners and extendable footrests.

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Satisfy your sweet tooth at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium. Photo by Charlotte Blanton

Kid-Friendly Restaurants at CityWalk in Orlando

Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.

Based on the hit movie Forrest Gump, this restaurant serves seafood and classic Southern favorites, as well as an expansive kids' menu. Guests can also test their movie knowledge and browse movie-themed merchandise.

The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar

Sushi AND burgers in one place? Sounds like a winner to us! The Cowfish is an innovative restaurant offering a variety of sushi and custom-designed burgers. Kids can choose from a variety of creative bento boxes on the kids’ menu. The restaurant also features a saltwater aquarium and interactive game screens in the waiting area.

Hot Dog Hall of Fame

Try out a variety of hot dogs from famous ballparks at the Hot Dog Hall of Fame. This quick-service restaurant is committed to the baseball theme, with stadium seating, ballpark graphics and signs, and artificial turf.

Toothsome Chocolate Emporium

The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium is as close as it gets to visiting Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory! Satisfy even the biggest sweet tooth with elaborate milkshakes, gourmet chocolates, and one-of-a-kind desserts. There is also a full-service restaurant with a variety of menu options.

Voodoo Doughnut

Arrive early or late to avoid the lines at this popular doughnut shop, which serves up more than 50 types of doughnuts each day. Fan favorites include the bacon maple bar, raspberry jelly-filled voodoo doll, and the Memphis mafia.

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Here's one way to get around at CityWalk. Photo courtesy of Universal Orlando

Things to Know Before You Go

Parking: Universal’s theme parks and CityWalk share the same two adjacent parking garages. Parking costs start at $26 for general parking. Free self-parking is available after 6pm for all guests (except during Halloween Horror Nights). Moviegoers can have their parking fee reimbursed with the purchase of two or more matinee tickets.

Safety Protocols: As of July 2021, face coverings are not required for fully vaccinated guests. Proof of vaccination is not required. Guests are still encouraged to maintain social distance from other parties.

Universal Orlando Resort App: Go contact-free by downloading the official Universal Orlando Resort app and order food and drinks from several participating CityWalk restaurants. You can also access a detailed map of CityWalk through the app.

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