Best Ride at Universal Studios Orlando: Guide to All the Rides
Universal Studios Orlando is a top destination for theme park enthusiasts of all ages. The rides at Universal Orlando offer thrilling and immersive experiences, making Universal Orlando Resort a must-visit for families and thrill-seekers.
With a variety of attractions that cater to different interests, it’s easy to see why this park is a favourite for thrill seekers and families alike. Here’s our guide to the best rides at Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure. This guide will help you plan your visit and enjoy the best rides these parks have to offer.
Key Takeaways
- Exciting Rides for All: Universal Studios Orlando offers a mix of rides for every age, including thrilling coasters like the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit and magical experiences such as Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts.
- Family Fun: With rides like E.T. Adventure and Men in Black Alien Attack, families can enjoy interactive experiences and nostalgic moments together.
- Immersive Adventures: Step into the stories of your favourite films with rides like The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man and Jurassic Park River Adventure, offering immersive experiences and stunning effects.
Best Rides at Universal Studios Florida
Universal Studios Florida offers a wide range of rides that appeal to different tastes, from magical adventures in the Wizarding World to thrilling roller coasters and engaging interactive experiences. Here are the must-ride attractions that will make your visit unforgettable.
Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
Height Requirement: 42 inches (107 cm)
Located in the heart of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Diagon Alley, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts is a standout attraction. This ride features an impressive queue with lifelike goblins that seem straight out of the Harry Potter films. The queue itself winds through the Gringotts bank lobby, giving you a close look at the detailed architecture and animatronic goblins working away. As you get closer to the ride, you’ll find yourself in the underground vaults where the real excitement begins.
The ride itself is a thrilling mix of dark ride and coaster elements, enhanced with 3-D projections. You’ll join Harry, Ron, and Hermione on a mission to retrieve a Horcrux from the depths of Gringotts. Expect sudden turns, drops, and encounters with fire-breathing dragons and other magical creatures. This blend of ride elements creates an immersive and exciting experience that captures the essence of the Harry Potter universe. After enjoying the ride, don’t miss the chance to relax in front of the attraction with a Butterbeer ice cream and watch the dragon breathe fire.
Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
Height Requirement: 51 inches (130 cm)
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit is a must. This roller coaster allows riders to choose their own soundtrack from a selection of songs, adding a personal touch to the experience. As you approach the ride, you’ll notice its towering vertical lift, which is an impressive sight on its own. Once you board, you’ll use the touch screen on the ride vehicle to select your favourite track from genres like rock, country, and pop.
The ride starts with a vertical ascent, taking you 17 stories high before you plummet down at speeds reaching up to 65 mph. The track features several twists, turns, and non-inverting loops, making it a thrilling ride from start to finish. The combination of high-speed thrills and personalised music makes this ride a unique experience that you’ll want to try more than once.
Revenge of the Mummy
Height Requirement: 48 inches (122 cm)
A welcome break from the screen-based attractions, the Revenge of the Mummy is an indoor coaster themed around the Mummy franchise. The ride begins with an exploration of an ancient Egyptian tomb, complete with dark passages and ominous warnings. As you venture deeper, you realise that the curse of the mummy is real.
The coaster takes you through high-speed twists and turns in the dark, with sudden drops and backward sections that keep you on the edge of your seat. Special effects, including fireballs, scarab beetles, and warrior mummies, add to the thrill and immersive experience. This ride is thrilling without being overly scary, although the spooky mummy theming might be a bit intimidating for younger riders. The immersive design and exciting practical effects make this ride a favourite among many visitors.
Men in Black Alien Attack
Height Requirement: 42 inches (107 cm)
This interactive dark ride takes you into the Men in Black training facility, where you can zap aliens. The ride begins as you enter the Men in Black headquarters, where you’ll be briefed on your mission to capture aliens that have infiltrated New York City. With 120 animatronic aliens, it’s engaging and fun, making it worth riding more than once to try and beat your high score.
Each rider is equipped with a laser gun and tasked with shooting as many aliens as possible to score points. The ride vehicle moves through various scenes of an alien invasion, with targets popping up all around. It’s competitive, fast-paced, and highly interactive, making it a favourite for families and groups looking to see who can get the highest score.
E.T. Adventure
Height Requirement: 34 inches (86 cm)
E.T. Adventure is the only opening-day attraction left at Universal Orlando, and it offers a charming and nostalgic experience. As you enter the queue, you’ll find yourself in a dense forest, complete with the scent of pine trees and the sound of forest creatures. The ride features a bicycle ride vehicle that takes you through E.T.’s world.
The journey begins with a recreation of the famous bike chase scene from the movie, where you’ll fly over the city to escape the authorities. Once you reach E.T.’s home planet, you’ll encounter colourful creatures and lush landscapes as you help E.T. save his friends. The combination of gentle motion and enchanting scenes makes this ride perfect for families and those looking for a bit of nostalgia.
The Simpsons Ride
Height Requirement: 40 inches (102 cm)
Fans of The Simpsons will love this motion simulator ride. The Simpsons Ride takes you on a wild journey through Springfield, filled with the show’s humour and references. The queue area is designed to look like Krustyland, a theme park created by Krusty the Clown, complete with carnival games and quirky signs.
Once you board the ride vehicle, you’ll join the Simpson family on a chaotic adventure through various attractions in Krustyland. The motion simulator technology creates a smooth and realistic experience, but it might be intense for those prone to motion sickness. The ride’s humour and attention to detail make it a must-see for fans of the show.
Hogwarts Express: King’s Cross Station
Height Requirement: None (however, children must be accompanied by an adult)
The Hogwarts Express connects Universal Studios Florida with Islands of Adventure, providing a magical and immersive way to travel between the parks. As you enter King’s Cross Station, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into the heart of London. The station is a detailed replica, complete with luggage, signs, and even a few magical surprises.
The journey on the train is filled with scenes from the Harry Potter films, giving you the feeling that you’re traveling to Hogwarts. You’ll encounter familiar characters and magical creatures along the way, making it a delightful experience for fans of all ages. This train ride is more than just transportation; it’s an attraction in itself that adds to the overall magic of the Wizarding World.
Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon
Height Requirement: 40 inches (102 cm)
This 3-D motion simulator ride, led by Jimmy Fallon, takes you on a fast-paced trip around New York City. The queue is designed to look like 30 Rockefeller Plaza, home of The Tonight Show. You’ll see memorabilia from past hosts and even catch a live performance from the Ragtime Gals, a barbershop quartet.
Once you board the ride vehicle, you’ll join Jimmy Fallon on a wild race through the streets of New York, dodging taxis, soaring over skyscrapers, and encountering iconic landmarks. The ride’s humour and high-energy pace make it a fun experience for Tonight Show fans and anyone looking for a light-hearted adventure.
Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
Height Requirement: 40 inches (102 cm)
One of the first attractions guests encounter when entering the park, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem is a simulator ride that’s great for families. The experience begins with a visit to Gru’s home, where you’ll be transformed into a Minion and trained for your new role.
The ride takes you on a hilarious and chaotic journey through Gru’s lab, with plenty of slapstick humour and surprises along the way. The motion simulator technology creates a smooth ride that’s accessible for all ages. After the ride, you can enjoy more Minion-themed fun at the nearby Minion Cafe, making this area a hit with younger visitors.
Kang & Kodos’ Twirl ‘n’ Hurl
Height Requirement: None (children under 48 inches must be accompanied by an adult)
This spinner ride, themed around the aliens from The Simpsons, offers a fun and whimsical experience, especially for younger visitors. As you board your flying saucer, Kang and Kodos will guide you through a mission to destroy Springfield. The ride spins you around in circles, providing nice views of the park while you aim at targets below.
The humorous commentary from Kang and Kodos adds to the fun, making it an enjoyable ride for fans of The Simpsons. It’s a great option for kids and a nice break from the more intense attractions in the park.
Transformers: The Ride 3-D
Height Requirement: 40 inches (102 cm)
Transformers: The Ride 3-D is an action-packed 3-D motion simulator that immerses you in the world of Transformers. The ride begins with a briefing from Optimus Prime, who explains your mission to protect the AllSpark from the Decepticons.
You’ll board a ride vehicle that moves through various scenes of a city under siege, with giant robots battling all around you. The combination of 3-D effects and realistic motion creates a thrilling and immersive experience. Fans of the films will appreciate the detailed theming and exciting ride experience, although the ride can be a bit jerky, so it may not be suitable for everyone.
Fast & Furious – Supercharged
Height Requirement: 40 inches (102 cm)
This newer ride was highly anticipated by fans of the Fast & Furious franchise. The attraction begins with a tour of the Fast & Furious headquarters, where you’ll see cars and memorabilia from the films. The queue features interactions with characters from the series, adding to the excitement.
The ride itself is a high-speed chase through the streets of Los Angeles, with explosive stunts and high-energy action. While it may not have lived up to all expectations, it still offers an exciting experience for those who enjoy the movies. If you’re short on time, there are other attractions that might be a higher priority, but fans of the franchise will still find it enjoyable.
Best Rides at Universal’s Islands of Adventure
Universal’s Islands of Adventure is home to some of the most thrilling and immersive rides in Orlando. From epic roller coasters to magical adventures, these are the top attractions you won’t want to miss.
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
Height Requirement: 48 inches (122 cm)
Located in Hogwarts Castle, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey is a must-ride for any Harry Potter fan. The queue itself is an attraction, featuring replicas of Hogwarts classrooms, the Gryffindor common room, and even a visit from the Sorting Hat.
The ride uses a unique combination of motion-based technology and immersive sets to take you on a journey through scenes from the Harry Potter films. You’ll soar over Hogwarts, dodge a dragon, and even play a game of Quidditch. While some guests may experience motion sickness, the ride’s stunning visuals and immersive experience make it worth the risk. The attention to detail and the seamless blend of real sets and digital effects make this one of the best rides in the park.
Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
Height Requirement: 48 inches (122 cm)
Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure is often hailed as one of the best rides in the park. The queue takes you through the Forbidden Forest and past Hagrid’s hut, setting the stage for the adventure to come.
This well-themed roller coaster allows you to ride on Hagrid’s motorbike or in the sidecar, each offering a slightly different experience. The coaster features multiple launches, drops, and twists as you encounter magical creatures like Fluffy the three-headed dog and a Blast-Ended Skrewt. The surprises and detailed theming make it a ride you’ll want to experience again and again.
Jurassic World VelociCoaster
Height Requirement: 51 inches (130 cm)
The Jurassic World VelociCoaster is a newer addition to Islands of Adventure and is considered one of the most thrilling rides in Orlando. The queue takes you through the Jurassic World raptor paddock, where you’ll get up close to lifelike animatronic raptors.
The high-speed roller coaster features multiple inversions, including a zero-g roll over the lagoon, and intense drops, making it a must for thrill seekers. Reaching speeds of up to 70 mph, the VelociCoaster provides an adrenaline rush from start to finish. If you love roller coasters, this is a ride you can’t miss.
Jurassic Park River Adventure
Height Requirement: 42 inches (107 cm)
What starts as a peaceful boat ride through Jurassic Park quickly turns into a thrilling escape with an 85-foot drop. The ride begins with a scenic tour of the park’s dinosaur habitats, featuring lifelike animatronics of dinosaurs like the Stegosaurus and the Dilophosaurus.
As the boat approaches the Raptor Containment Area, things take a turn for the worse. You’ll encounter escaped raptors and other dangerous dinosaurs as you make your way to safety. The ride culminates in a dramatic 85-foot drop that plunges you into the water below, providing a refreshing splash. Whether you’re a fan of the Jurassic Park movies or just love water rides, this attraction is a must-do. The final splashdown is always a crowd-pleaser.
The Incredible Hulk Coaster
Height Requirement: 54 inches (137 cm)
The Incredible Hulk Coaster is one of the most intense rides at Islands of Adventure. The ride begins with a launch that catapults you from zero to 40 mph in just two seconds, sending you straight into a zero-g roll.
With seven inversions and a top speed of 67 mph, this roller coaster is a favourite among those who love high-speed thrills. The track twists and turns over the lagoon, providing breath-taking views of the park. The Incredible Hulk Coaster is an iconic ride that continues to draw coaster enthusiasts from all over, making it a must-ride for thrill-seekers.
Flight of the Hippogriff
Height Requirement: 36 inches (91 cm)
Flight of the Hippogriff is a family-friendly roller coaster located in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. The queue takes you past Hagrid’s hut, where you’ll receive instructions on how to properly approach a Hippogriff.
The ride is short but sweet, with gentle twists and turns that offer great views of Hogwarts Castle. It’s perfect for younger visitors who may not be ready for the bigger coasters. As you coast along, don’t forget to wave to Buckbeak, who bows in greeting. The whimsical theming and moderate thrills make this ride a hit with families.
The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man
Height Requirement: 40 inches (102 cm)
Step inside your favourite comic books with The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man. This 3-D simulator dark ride immerses you in the superhero action, using ground-breaking ride technology to bring the story to life. The queue is filled with nods to Spider-Man’s world, including the Daily Bugle office and a variety of comic book references.
Once you board the ride vehicle, you’ll join Spider-Man in a battle against some of his most notorious foes. The ride combines 3-D projections with physical sets and special effects, creating a seamless and thrilling experience. The combination of humour, action, and immersive technology makes this one of the most popular rides in the park.
Hogwarts Express: Hogsmeade Station
Height Requirement: None (however, children must be accompanied by an adult)
The Hogwarts Express provides a magical and immersive way to travel between Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. The Hogsmeade Station side of the journey is just as fun as the King’s Cross Station side, making it a must-do experience if you plan to visit both parks.
As you board the train at Hogsmeade, you’ll be transported into the world of Harry Potter. The train ride features scenic views and interactive elements that bring the magic to life. You’ll encounter familiar characters and magical creatures along the way, making it a delightful experience for fans of all ages. This train ride is more than just transportation; it’s an attraction in itself that adds to the overall magic of the Wizarding World.
The High in the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride
Height Requirement: 36 inches (91 cm)
This gentle train ride offers a scenic tour above Seuss Landing. The queue area is filled with colourful Seuss-inspired décor and playful elements that set the stage for the ride.
The High in the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride features two different tracks, each telling a unique story inspired by Dr. Seuss’s beloved books. The ride vehicles are whimsical and colourful, matching the Seussian theme. It’s a great option for families and provides a nice break in the middle of a busy day at the park.
Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls
Height Requirement: 44 inches (112 cm)
Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls is a classic log flume ride with a fun cartoon twist. The queue area is filled with humorous signs and décor inspired by the Dudley Do-Right cartoon series.
The ride takes you through a series of outdoor and indoor scenes, featuring colourful characters and slapstick humour. The highlight of the ride is the final drop, a dramatic plunge that sends you splashing into the water below. Bright colours and retro cartoon vignettes make this ride enjoyable, even if you’re not familiar with Dudley Do-Right. Just be prepared to get wet, especially during the final drop.
The Cat in the Hat
Height Requirement: 36 inches (91 cm)
This dark ride takes you straight into one of Dr. Seuss’s most beloved stories. The queue area is designed to look like the pages of a Dr. Seuss book, with whimsical décor and playful elements.
The ride follows the storyline of The Cat in the Hat, with animatronic characters and colourful scenes that bring the book to life. It’s fun for kids and nostalgic for adults who remember the story from childhood. Keep an eye out for mischievous Thing 1 and Thing 2 as you go along. The gentle motion and charming visuals make this ride a hit with families.
Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges
Height Requirement: 42 inches (107 cm)
Sail through the rapids on this bumpy water ride, but be warned: you will get very wet. The queue area is designed to look like a seaside dock, complete with barrels, nets, and nautical décor.
The ride takes you on a wild journey through a series of rapids and waterfalls, with plenty of splashes along the way. You’ll encounter scenes inspired by the Popeye cartoons, featuring animatronic characters and humorous situations. Although it’s perfect for a warm Florida day, you might want to skip it if the weather is cooler or if you don’t want to walk around in soaked clothes. The ride’s lively and playful atmosphere makes it a favourite for those looking to cool off.
Caro-Seuss-el
Height Requirement: None (children under 48 inches must be accompanied by an adult)
The Caro-Seuss-el offers a fun twist on the classic amusement park carousel, with Seuss-inspired characters replacing traditional carousel horses. The queue area is colourful and whimsical, with plenty of playful elements to entertain young children.
As you ride, you’ll enjoy gentle spins and the opportunity to control the up-and-down motion of your chosen character. The characters themselves are vibrant and quirky, fitting perfectly with the Seussian theme. It’s a whimsical ride that’s perfect for young children and a great way to soak in the colourful Seuss Landing.
Pteranodon Flyers
Height Requirement: 36 inches (91 cm) to 56 inches (142 cm) (adults must be accompanied by a child)
This gentle dino-themed ride was designed for kids, so adults can only ride if they have a child with them. The queue area is themed to look like a prehistoric jungle, complete with lush greenery and dinosaur bones.
The Pteranodon Flyers take you on a leisurely flight above the Jurassic Park area, offering great views of the park as you soar along the track. The gentle motion and scenic views make this ride a relaxing and enjoyable experience for families. If you meet the criteria, you’ll enjoy great views of the park as you soar along the track.
Storm Force Accelatron
Height Requirement: None (children under 48 inches must be accompanied by an adult)
This hero-themed spinning teacup ride is fun and worth checking out if there isn’t a long line. The queue area is filled with comic book-inspired décor, setting the stage for the ride.
The Storm Force Accelatron allows you to control the spinning motion of your ride vehicle, making it as gentle or as intense as you like. It’s not the most thrilling option in the park, but it’s a good choice for families or those looking for a more relaxed ride. The ride’s interactive nature and superhero theme make it a fun experience for all ages.
Doctor Doom’s Fearfall
Height Requirement: 52 inches (132 cm)
Doctor Doom’s Fearfall is a space shot-style ride that isn’t for the faint of heart. The queue area is themed to look like a villain’s lair, with dark and ominous décor.
The ride begins with a dramatic countdown before launching you skyward at high speeds. You’ll experience a series of thrilling drops and bounces as you tower over the park. Expect thrilling drops and a villain-themed experience that’s fun for thrill-seekers. It’s a great option for those who enjoy a good adrenaline rush.
One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish
Height Requirement: None (children under 48 inches must be accompanied by an adult)
Climb aboard an adorable flying fish on this Dr. Seuss-themed spinning ride. The queue area is colourful and whimsical, with décor inspired by Dr. Seuss’s beloved books.
The ride allows younger children to control the up-and-down motion of their fish, adding an interactive element to the experience. Keep an eye out for the fountains that spray water, adding a bit of surprise and fun to the ride. It’s ideal for younger children who can control the ride vehicle, but keep an eye out for the fountains to avoid getting wet.
Skull Island: Reign of Kong
Height Requirement: 36 inches (91 cm)
This trackless dark ride based on King Kong offers impressive animatronics and a well-themed queue. The queue area is designed to look like an expedition camp, complete with tribal artifacts and ominous warnings.
The ride itself takes you on a journey through Skull Island, where you’ll encounter massive animatronic creatures and thrilling scenes. The screen-based portions of the ride are blended with physical sets, creating an immersive experience. However, the screen-based portion may not be as exciting as some other rides. Note that the queue can be spooky, so younger riders might want to sit this one out.
Final Word
Universal Studios Orlando offers a wide variety of rides that cater to all ages and interests. Whether you’re a thrill seeker looking for the most intense roller coasters or a family looking for fun and engaging attractions, there’s something for everyone at both Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure.
Plan your visit well to make the most of your time and enjoy these amazing adventures. Don’t forget to take advantage of universal express passes and check the park hours to maximise your experience.