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Table of Contents
Introduction
After months of juggling schoolwork and exams, I thought it was time to treat the kids. And honestly, what better place than Universal Studios? Sure, Orlando has its share of amazing theme parks, but Universal has a magic all its own, holding strong as the second favorite spot right after Walt Disney Resort. With us living just 15 minutes away, we’ve been there so many times it’s practically a second home, but it never gets old!
Split into three fantastic parks: Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay, this place offers a world of thrill and excitement. For over 30 years, it’s been wowing visitors from around the globe.
In this guide, I’ll dish out my top family rides at Universal Studios, mixing local know-how with a mom’s touch to get you rolling. I’ve also dropped the park names so you’ll know exactly where to drop anchor for each adventure.
Best Rides at Universal Studios Orlando, FL
As a mom who’s spent countless weekends exploring every corner of Universal Studios Orlando, I’ve come to know the ins and outs of this theme park like the back of my hand. I’ve navigated the thrilling highs, soothing lows, and everything in between, always with a keen eye on what keeps both the kids and parents smiling.
And guess what? The park features a fantastic lineup of 48 incredible rides. But which ones will guarantee smiles all around? Here’s my top 10 pick of the best rides at Universal Studios Orlando.
1. Transformers: The Ride 3D
- Height Requirements: 40″
- Duration: 5mins
- Location: Universal Studios
If you are a Transformer fan, you surely do not miss this up.
The ride drops you straight into your favorite Transformers movie, where you team up with Optimus Prime and Bumblebee and save the Earth from Megatron’s clutches. But that’s not just this. The combination of the 3D visuals, the sound effects, and the motion simulator makes you feel like you’re right there in the middle of the battle.
You’ll be ducking, diving, and racing through scenes at what feels like 60 miles per hour while trying to outmaneuver the Decepticons.
A quick heads-up: it might get a bit bumpy if you’re sensitive to motion simulators.
And if you’re visiting on a busy day, the wait can be pretty long. My advice? Hit it first thing in the morning or snag an Express Pass to skip the line and get straight to the action.
2. MEN IN BLACK Alien Attack
- Height Requirements: 42″
- Duration: 5mins
- Location: Universal Studios
Men in Black Alien Attack is a blast for the whole family. For parents like me with energetic kids, this ride is perfect. It starts with a hilarious tour, then whisks you underground to MIB HQ.
With a laser blaster in hand, you’ll battle 120 alien animatronics in a game that’s super stimulating. It is so interactive that it keeps everyone engaged, and the gentle pace makes it great for all ages. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to challenge yourself and win bragging rights!
On the safety front, the ride is well-kept, but make sure younger kids are strapped in. It’s a popular ride, so be ready for a bit of a wait, but the pre-show keeps the excitement going.
3. Harry Potter & the Forbidden Journey
- Height Requirements: 48″
- Duration: 4mins
- Location: Universal Studios
As a mom with a son who’s head-over-heels for Harry Potter, Harry Potter & the Forbidden Journey always feels like a bit of extra magic.
This ride whisks you through Hogwarts Castle, where you’ll soar over the grounds, dodge dragons, and face off against Dementors, all thanks to some jaw-dropping 4K-HD projections. It moves at a zippy 23 mph, fast enough to get your heart racing but not so fast it’ll knock your socks off.
The queue itself is like a mini adventure; you’ll wander through Hogwarts and see cool stuff like the Sorting Hat and Dumbledore’s office, making the wait fly by. Plus, the ride’s gentle pace means it’s perfect for everyone to share in the fun together.
It’s one of those rare rides that blends top-notch storytelling with family-friendly fun, making it a standout on our trips!
4. The Incredible Hulk Coaster
- Height Requirements: 54″
- Duration: 2mins
- Location: Universal Island of Adventure
If you’re after an intense thrill, The Incredible Hulk Coaster at Islands of Adventure is where you want to be. This roller coaster isn’t just any ride, it’s one of the wildest at Universal Studios. Forget the slow climbs; the Hulk launches you from 0 to 67 mph in mere seconds, giving you a heart-pounding start.
It’s a real head-spinner with over-the-shoulder restraints, lightning-fast speed, and seven inversions to flip you upside down. My family, especially my adrenaline junkie son, just can’t get enough of it. We always kick off our day with this ride. It’s like a jolt of energy that’s way better than coffee.
5. Revenge of the Mummy
- Height Requirements: 48″
- Duration: 2mins
- Location: Universal Studios
The Revenge of the Mummy is my top pick, hands down! Racing through an ancient tomb, you’re trying to outpace a bloodthirsty mummy at 45 mph. It might seem tame from the outside, but it’s a whole different ball game inside.
You’ll dodge creepy bugs, eerie fog, and sudden bursts of flames—oops, I just got startled by those flames! The mist adds a spooky touch, making it feel like the ride’s personal twist of terror.
The grand finale?
A thrilling plunge into pitch-black darkness with curses flying around. No loops, but it’s a roller coaster packed with thrills and chills, making every ride a wild, unforgettable adventure!
6. Harry Potter & the Escape from Gringotts
- Height Requirements: 42″
- Duration: 5mins
- Location: Universal Studios
Oh, let me tell you about Harry Potter & the Escape from Gringotts, another absolute favorite! Stepping into that ride for the first time felt like entering a movie set. The grand Gringotts lobby sets the stage perfectly. The elevator ride down? Pure anticipation!
When I first rode it, I was mesmerized by how realistic everything looked. That goblin animatronics are so lifelike it’s almost eerie! And the dragon at the end? I was totally blown away. The fire-breathing effect is actually a mix of water vapor and LED lights, creating a spectacular finish that left my kids (and me!) wide-eyed. For any Potter fan, this ride is a must-do!
7. The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man
- Height Requirements: 40″
- Duration: 5mins
- Location: Universal Island of Adventure
Ever dreamed of swinging through New York with Spider-Man? That’s exactly what you’ll experience on The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man! This ride has become my go-to pick-me-up whenever I need a jolt of excitement.
The thrill of joining Spider-Man on a wild chase to save the Statue of Liberty is nothing short of electrifying. The combination of heat from the simulated flames and the splash of water will make you feel like you are genuinely darting through the city.
My little superhero fan was practically bouncing off the walls, and my daughters (though slightly unexpected) were just as captivated. Their excitement was palpable; they couldn’t stop chatting about it afterward. It quickly became one of their all-time favorites!
8. The Hogwarts Express
- Height Requirements: None
- Duration: 4mins
- Location: Universal Studios
Fourth on the list of must-do rides for any Universal Studios Orlando trip is the enchanting Hogwarts Express. This train ride is the perfect way to travel between Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure, but remember, you’ll need a Park-to-Park ticket to hop on.
Whether you’re departing from King’s Cross Station or Hogsmeade Station, either way, you are en route to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
The train moves at a leisurely 7.6 mph, allowing you to take in the immersive special effects and mystical views. Each direction offers a distinct experience: from King’s Cross, you’ll see bustling London scenes and a delightful view of Platform 9¾, while the Hogsmeade route presents while the Hogsmeade route offers picturesque countryside and some whimsical surprises.
9. Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
- Height Requirements: 48″
- Duration: 3mins
- Location: Universal Island of Adventure
Universal Studios truly shines with its Harry Potter attractions, and Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure is a prime example. This motorbike ride takes you for a fascinating trip through the Forbidden Forest, reaching exhilarating speeds of up to 50 mph.
This ride boasts one of the park’s longest experiences, with its exceptional theming plunging you into Hagrid’s Care of Magical Creatures class. From the captivating pre-shows, eye-catching details, and enchanting creatures, every second is meticulously designed to enchant you. Even if the wait is a bit long, the unique launch system and immersive experience are definitely worth it.
10. Jurassic World VelociCoaster
- Height Requirements: 42″
- Duration: 2mins
- Location: Universal Island of Adventure
Ready to add another best Universal Studios ride to your must-do list? The Jurassic World VelociCoaster is an absolute must-do at Islands of Adventure. It’s one of Universal Studios’ speediest rides, hitting 70 mph and making you question your sanity as you zoom through loops and soar over the park.
You will be smashed by an an 85-foot drop that makes your stomach do somersaults, followed by intense twists and turns. Plus, it has a stunning view as you zoom past the Raptor pens, making it feel like you’re part of the Jurassic World action.
With four inversions and sky-high thrills, this coaster is perfect for anyone or a high-speed thrill with a side of cinematic excitement.
Being scared?
Don’t be. The ride is super safe, and the excitement is guaranteed.
11. Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
- Height Requirements: 51″
- Duration: 1:40sec
- Location: Universal Studios
What I call the ultimate zing, Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit is a ride highly recommended. We were a bit nervous before hopping on, so my husband double-checked the safety harnesses—better safe than sorry! What sets this ride apart is the ability to choose your own soundtrack. After you strap in and hear your favorite song, the ride starts with a gravity-defying vertical climb. Then, you’re off, zooming through twists and turns at 65 mph. It’s a pulse-pounding adventure that’s as much about the music as it is about the ride.
12. Doctor Doom’s Fear Fall
- Height Requirements: 52″
- Duration: 2mins
- Location: Universal Island of Adventure
Doctor Doom’s Fear Fall is one of the standout adrenaline-pumping rides at Universal Studios Orlando, crafted to deliver an invigorating experience. Inspired by Marvel’s infamous villain, Doctor Doom, this ride features his menacing invention that preys on your fears.
As you board, you’re propelled 185 feet into the sky in a spine-tingling ascent. The excitement peaks when you plummet back down at 40 MPH, providing a gut-wrenching freefall. What I love most about this ride is the rush of the drop combined with the dramatic villain-themed setup. It’s a quick but intense thrill that really gets your heart racing!
Upcoming New Rides at Universal Studios (2025)
So that’s to some of my favorite rides at Universal Studios Orlando. But guess what? Universal isn’t stopping there! For 2025, Epic Universal is on its way to pull out all the stops with a whole new lineup of thrilling attractions. Here’s a sneak peek at some of the soon-to-debut rides.
- Starfall Racers: Dueling multi-launch coasters.
- Curse of the Werewolf: A spinning family coaster.
- Hiccup’s Wing Gliders: A family multi-launch coaster.
- Constellation Carousel: A charming carousel.
- Dragon Racer’s Rally: Dueling Sky Fly rides.
- Monsters Unchained: A dark ride with KUKA-arm technology.
Conclusion
And that’s a wrap on my guide! I truly hope you and your family fall in love with these rides like ours. But remember, the rides are just the tip of the iceberg. Universal has so much more to offer. So, go ahead, explore, and let the adventure begin.
FAQs
1. What’s the most intense ride at Universal Studios Orlando?
Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit is Universal Orlando’s most intense ride. With a 90-degree vertical climb and up to 65 mph speeds, it’s not for the faint of heart.
2. What’s the fastest ride at Universal Studios Orlando?
VelociCoaster at Islands of Adventure takes the crown as the fastest ride, reaching speeds of 70 mph. It’s a heart-pounding adventure through Jurassic World, complete with zero-gravity moments.
3. Which ride should I not miss at Universal Studios Orlando?
Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure is an absolute must. It’s a thrilling blend of speed, magical creatures, and surprises that bring the Wizarding World to life.
4. Is there a good, family-friendly ride at Universal Studios Orlando?
Yes! The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man is perfect for families. It’s an immersive 3D experience that combines fun, excitement, and Marvel magic without being too intense.
