14 Best Rides at Universal Orlando

Whether it’s work, school, or just the endless pile of dishes waiting for you, everyone needs to get away once in a while! And if it’s an escape you’re looking for, where else can you experience wizards, your favorite movie characters, and thrilling rides that will transport you into another world?

Universal Studios in Florida is the ultimate getaway for any movie buff or anyone who wants to jump into another world. But, if you’ve started planning your trip to Universal Orlando, you might be overwhelmed with the numerous attractions available. One of the advantages of Universal Orlando is how expansive the parks are; it’s nearly impossible to see it all on just one trip! After all, there are 3 (soon to be 4!) separate parks to discover during your time visiting Central Florida. The one you might be most familiar with is Universal Studios — which is based on movies, TV shows, and pop culture.

Universal’s Island of Adventure is aimed toward thrillseekers who want to ride exhilarating rollercoasters and is home to your favorite comic book superheroes. There’s also Volcano Bay (the themed water park), and the 4th park is currently under construction. It will be called Universal’s Epic Universe and is scheduled to open by summer 2025. So, how do you choose what to prioritize and what to maybe save for your next trip? Read on to discover a list of the best rides at Universal Orlando! Trust us; you don’t want to miss out.

Universal Studios Florida

If you want to go to Universal Orlando to immerse yourself in the world of your favorite TV shows and movies, you’ll want to be at Universal Studios! This area is considered the more “family-friendly” park, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t amazing rides to check out here too.

1. Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts

Harry Potter Fans and budding young Wizards can’t miss this ride in Diagon Alley. A multi-dimensional experience located right under the fire-breathing dragon, this ride will thrust any young rider into their Hogwarts fantasy to battle Voldemort in a scene from the Deathly Hallows.

2. Hogwarts Express: King’s Cross Station

Another must-see for Potterheads is the Hogwarts Express! Standing on the platform, you’ll feel like you’re about to leave for your first year at Hogwarts yourself. In reality, this train will take you from park to park. Just remember that entry into Universal Studios will allow you into Diagon Alley, but you will need a park-to-park ticket to experience this ride.

3. Revenge of the Mummy: The Ride

If you aren’t afraid of a bit of spook, you may want to check out one of the best thrill rides at Universal Studios. This experience zooms you around at speeds of 45 mph while surrounded by darkness. Just don’t be surprised if you find some creatures lurking around with you.

4. E.T. Adventure

This classic ride will take you on a journey to save E.T.’s home planet! We always wanted to go there, didn’t you? A kid-friendly ride, this will be sure to please your youngsters and is a throwback for movie fans too!

5. Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit

Not for the faint of heart, this ride is another for thrillseekers and diehard rock-n-roll fans! After selecting your soundtrack, this ride will plummet you from the air at a 90-degree angle as you jam to your favorite tunes. 

6. Despicable Me Minion Mayhem

Have you secretly always dreamed of being one of Gru’s minions? No judgment; who can resist the Minion madness! This motion simulator ride will take you on your minion adventures, complete with chaos and a few laughs along the way.

7. Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon

Thought your trip was limited to just Orlando? You thought wrong! This 3D and 4D simulator will take you on a high-flying tour of the city that never sleeps with one of the late-night TV legends — Jimmy Fallon!

Rides at Universal’s Island of Adventure

Now for the daredevils out there… if you enjoy theme parks for the terrifying drops, scares, and other creepy-crawly antics, you’ll want to plan your trip around a visit to Universal’s Island of Adventure. This park is for the brave who want to scream their heads off with plenty of kid-friendly experiences to enjoy too). If that sounds like you, keep on reading.

8. Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure

Part of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, this ride is a rollercoaster with tons of twists and turns! If you decided to snag a park-to-park ticket and will be exploring both “worlds” or are visiting IOA (Island of Adventure) for the day, this is a must-do for anyone over 48 inches tall.

9. Jurassic World VelociCoaster

This new coaster in Orlando isn’t just known for its speed, stunning views, and ability to thrust you into a new era. The exhilarating fan-favorite film comes to life with the VelociCoaster! If you’re an adrenaline junkie who loves rollercoasters, this unquestionably should go to the top of your Orlando vacation itinerary.

10. The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man

Perhaps one of the most talked-about rides in Universal Orlando, this motion simulator acquaints you with your favorite Avengers and lets you fly through the streets of New York City.

11. The Incredible Hulk Coaster

Another ride for the thrillseekers in your group — this high-speed coaster goes up to 67 mph and propels you through the air, resulting in an upside-down hang. Check out this ride if you want to see Universal from an entirely new angle! Speaking of going high into the sky, these zipline experiences in Orlando will also take you to new heights.

12. Doctor Doom’s Fearfall

Get ready to fly through the skies… and freefall to the ground! This thrill ride is said to be fastest than the space shuttle. You’ll be strapped into a harness, blasted into the air, and then dropped back down at speeds of up to 40 mph. Have a fear of heights? Close your eyes, or maybe skip this ride and head to the next place on our list.

13. Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges

This ride is what we’d call an OG Universal experience; it opened the same day that the park did on May 28, 1999! Every outstanding theme park needs a water ride to cool you off after a tiring day of walking around and exploring, and that’s precisely what you’ll find here — a kid-friendly raft ride. Jump on aboard and head out for a nostalgic experience down a small river that runs through Universal.

14. Skull Island: Reign of Kong

Sometimes the most terrifying sight is no sight at all! This unique thrill ride steeps you in darkness as you hide from King Kong’s fury. This ride was delayed in opening and finally premiered in 2016. Was it worth the wait? We think so, but you tell us!

Don’t Miss the Best Rides at Universal Orlando

If you’re lucky enough to be planning a trip to Universal Orlando, you’re in for the time of your life! There’s so much to see and do with a theme park of this magnitude, no matter your age (or preferred level of thrills).

Already have dates in mind, but don’t have a place to stay in Orlando yet? For the most immersive getaway, you’ll find themed vacation rentals near the parks that feature your favorite characters — like this home with a Harry Potter themed bedroom. From massive 9 bedroom vacation rentals to these quaint condos in Vista Cay within minutes of Universal, we’re positive you’ll find the perfect place for you and your family.

Need help choosing your accommodations or have questions? Our team would love to help and is available 24/7 by phone or email ❤️