We took our toddler to Universal Studios Orlando for the first time for her second birthday, and honestly… we had the best time, but it was very “real life” from the start. I’m sharing exactly what I packed in her carry-on (because if you think you have enough snacks—no, you don’t), plus the little activities that saved us on the plane. We also stayed at Endless Summer Surfside, which is technically a budget resort, but I was genuinely shocked at how clean, cute, and themed it is—and the suite setup was everything for toddler bedtime so Jack and I could still have an evening. Once we got into the parks, we had to figure things out fast (like folding the umbrella stroller for the bus… learn from us). We did a toddler nap “switcheroo” so we could each ride bigger rides while Annie slept. I’m walking you through what I prioritized, how I stayed strategic with wait times, and my honest ride reactions—Gringotts was epic, The Mummy was a full-blown roller coaster, and VelociCoaster is still my number one. I’m also sharing little tips that made the day easier, like using the free water bottle refill machines, trying single rider lines, and a few food stops we loved (buffalo chicken tater tots… I’m still thinking about you).