Disney does an extraordinary job when it comes to showmanship, which may be why Universal Studios has taken advantage of its distinctly non-Disney heritage to add attitude to its presentations. Universal Studios performers aren't above tossing in sometimes risqué jokes and asides to get a cheap laugh.

Although this theme park has something for everyone, its primary appeal is to those who like loud, fast, high-energy attractions. If you want to calm down, there are quiet, shaded parks and a children's area where the adults can enjoy a respite while the kids are ripping through assorted playlands at 100 mph. There are some visitors, however, who miss the sort of connection that Disney forges with the public through its carefully developed history of singable songs and cuddly characters.

The park has 444 acres of stage sets, shops, reproductions of New York and San Francisco, and anonymous soundstages housing themed attractions, as well as genuine moviemaking paraphernalia. On the map, it's all neatly divided into six neighborhoods, which wrap themselves around a huge lagoon. The neighborhoods are Production Central, which spreads over the entire left side of the Plaza of the Stars; New York, with excellent street performances at 70 Delancey; the bicoastal San Francisco/Amity; World Expo; Woody Woodpecker's KidZone; and Hollywood.

Although the park looks easy to navigate on the map, a blitz tour through it can be difficult, since it involves a couple of long detours and some backtracking. If you need help, theme-park hosts are trained to provide more information than you thought you needed. Also keep in mind that some rides -- and many restaurants -- delay their openings until late morning, which may throw a kink in your perfectly laid plans. In fact, if you arrive when the gates open, it's kind of eerie walking around in a nearly deserted theme park where it's just you and the staff. To make sure you maximize your time and hit all the best rides, follow this chapter's Blitz Tour.