Thrill Seekers Start Here – 9 Must-See Attractions at Universal Studios
Do you have a need for speed? How about a hankering for horror? If so, you definitely don’t want to miss a trip to Universal Studios, Florida!
I LOVE a good thrill ride, so helping families plan a thrill-filled theme-park vacation is so much fun to me! And if a client tells me they want fast rides and exciting shows, I always recommend Universal Studios, Orlando.
Because in my opinion, Universal Studios’ thrill rides and attractions are far superior to that other Orlando theme park! (Wink, wink.)
So keep reading to get the inside scoop on my top 7 must-see rides and attractions for thrill seekers at Universal Studios, Orlando.
#9 The Bourne Stuntacular
While not a ride, The Bourne Stuntacular is an action-packed, 20-minute show featuring Hollywood’s Jason Bourne (from the Bourne movies) as he “outruns sinister characters hoping to bring him in,” according to universalorlando.com.
Parents should know that this show contains mature themes, frightening images, and intense sound effects, such as gunfire and pyrotechnics.
Pro-tip: watch this show in the middle of the day when you need a break from walking and standing in lines!
#8 Jurrasic Park River Adventure
Located in Universal’s Islands of Adventure, Jurassic Park River Adventure might be slower-paced, but it will get your heart pumping.
According to Universal: “One minute, you’re gliding along in your raft. The next, you’re face to face with a giant T. rex. There’s nowhere to turn.”
While it’s not exactly a roller coaster, be forewarned: there is an 85-foot drop.
All riders must be at least 43” tall, but those under 48” need a supervising companion.
#7 Dudley Do-Right’s Rip Saw Falls
This water ride is perfect for a summer day in Orlando! Dudley Do-Right’s Rip Saw Falls is part roller coaster, part water flume, and combines your favorite cartoons with thrilling twists and turns.
This one includes a 75-foot drop, so be prepared!
This one is great for adults, teens, and tweens, but riders under 48” require supervision.
#6 Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
Harry Potter fans can’t miss Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure! Located in Universal’s Islands of Adventure, this is a rollercoaster like no other.
Here’s how Universal describes one of its newest thrill rides: “... fly deep into the wilds of the Forbidden Forest, beyond the grounds of Hogwarts™ castle, on a thrilling roller coaster ride that plunges into the paths of some of the Wizarding World’s rarest magical creatures.”
And how’s this for a fun fact? Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure has the most launches (7 in total) of any roller coaster worldwide!
#5 Rip Ride Rockit
How about a coaster you can customize?
Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit is a towering roller coaster that lets you choose the song you’ll listen to as you soar at 65 miles/hour. With several songs to choose from, each ride offers a unique experience.
Riders must be at least 51’’ to ride, and Universal claims it’s suitable for tweens, teens, and adults.
#4 Doctor Doom’s Fearfall
If you’re afraid of heights, this is NOT the ride for you!
You can find Doctor Doom’s Fearfall at Universal’s Islands of Adventure. It shoots you 185 feet into the sky and accelerates faster than a space shuttle!
Once at the top, you’ll get a few seconds to check out a fantastic view of the Universal theme parks before plummeting back down to earth at a jaw-dropping speed.
Universal says this ride is perfect for adults, teens, and tweens. Just note that riders must be at least 52” tall to ride.
#3 The Incredible Hulk Coaster
You can find this fan favorite at Universal’s Islands of Adventure.
Opening in 1999, The Incredible Hulk Coaster is a classic coaster for a reason – it launches you 67 miles/hour into a zero gravity roll and includes 7 inversions and two subterranean trenches.
Riders beware: there is a minimum height requirement of 54”.
#2 Halloween Horror Nights
Guess what was named “Best Halloween Event” by Amusement Today’s Golden Ticket Awards for 13 years.
You get a gold star if you guessed Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights!
This frightfully exciting, ticketed event is perfect for those who love a good jump scare.
With 10 haunted houses, 5 scare zones, live entertainment, and themed food and drinks, it’s no wonder Halloween Horror Nights has become one of Universal’s most popular annual attractions.
You should know that Halloween Horror Nights requires a separate admission into Universal Studios Orlando. My best advice is to get tickets early; they often sell out well before Halloween!
#1 Jurrasic World VelociCoaster
VelociCoaster, located in Universal’s Islands of Adventure, is my favorite thrill ride at the theme parks.
Not only is it super fast, but the theming and overall experience is top-notch.
On this newer, award-winning ride, you’ll race alongside Velociraptores as you soar above land and water.
It has two launches, one of which reaches 70 mph in 2.4 seconds up a 155 ft. top-hat tower followed by an 80-degree decline! YIKES!
And of its 4 inversions, one includes an inverted stall.
The ride finishes with a 360-degree barrel roll that’s mere feet above the lagoon.
And get this: riders are restrained with a lap bar only; there’s no over-the-shoulder restraint to help you feel locked in.
So now you know why Universal dubs this ride the “apex of roller coasters!”
Riders must be at least 51” tall to experience VelociCoaster.
Let’s Wrap It Up!
Universal Studios, Orlando, is a must-experience for anyone who loves fast, exciting rides and attractions.
Here are my 7 must-see attractions at the theme parks:
9- The Bourne Stuntacular
8- Jurrasic Park River Adventure
7- Dudley Do-Right’s Rip Saw Falls
6- Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
5- Rip Ride Rockit
4- Doctor Doom’s Fearfall
3- The Incredible Hulk Coaster
2- Halloween Horror Nights
1- Jurrasic World VelociCoaster
Want more Universal Studios, Orlando, content? Check out these blog posts:
3 Reasons Universal Studios is the Perfect Family Vacation
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Vacation Package: Everything You Need to Know
Everything You Need to Know About Universal Studios Ticketing
And if you’re ready to book your own Universal, Orlando, vacation, let’s chat! I can’t wait to help you plan your next thrilling trip!!