Going to Universal and don’t know where to start? This Universal Studios Orlando rides list details all the information you need to plan which attractions you want to experience on your vacation.
The Universal theme parks in Orlando consistently rank as some of the best in the world. While the Universal Orlando resort offers a wide range of attractions, dining, shopping, hotels, and immersive experiences, it’s known as much for its rides as anything else.
While the parks at Walt Disney World are probably better overall, Universal has more thrill rides, and nothing at the Disney parks compares with the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Every Harry Potter fan needs to experience Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade at least once. Of course, I say that knowing they’ll want to return again and again.
Two world-class theme parks and a terrific water park comprise the Universal Orlando Resort. After the list of rides, I’ll break down each ride by theme park and theme park area. I’ll let you know everything you need to know about each ride, including height requirements if each ride has a virtual line, and if it’s likely to trigger your motion sickness.
Universal Studios Orlando Rides List
This post contains many lists, and I’ve broken down the information into any list you could need to know what you need to know about each ride.
First is a list of rides in each Universal Orlando park.
Following that is a list of themed areas in each park and the rides in each section.
Thirdly, is a list of each ride and everything you’ll want to know about each attraction.
Finally, I have lists of rides that will be of particular interest to you. Those lists will include which attractions have virtual queues, the accessibility options, which rides use 3-D goggles, and a few more.
The lists you’ll find at the end are for rides:
- that use a Virtual Queue
- included with “Early Park Admission”
- not included with Universal Express Pass
- accessibility information
- single rider line available
- child swap area available
- free lockers nearby
- using 3-D goggles
All that information will be important in helping you plan your park day.
Universal Studios Florida Rides
- The Bourne Stuntacular
- Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
- E.T. Adventure
- Fast & Furious Supercharged
- Fear Factor Live
- Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
- Hogwarts Express
- Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
- Kang & Kudo’s Twirl ‘n Hurl
- Men In Black: Alien Attack
- Shrek 4-D
- The Simpsons Ride
- Transformers: The Ride – 3D
- Race Through New York starring Jimmy Fallon
- Revenge of the Mummy
- Woody Woodpecker’s Nuthouse Coaster
Universal Islands of Adventure Rides List
- Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man
- Caro-Seuss-El
- Cat in The Hat
- Doctor Doom’s FearFall
- Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls
- Flight of the Hippogriff
- Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
- Harry Potter and The Forbidden Journey
- High in The Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride
- Hogwarts Express*
- Incredible Hulk Coaster
- Jurassic Park River Adventure
- Jurassic World VelociCoaster
- One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish
- Popeye and Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges
- Pteranodon Flyers
- Skull Island – Reign of Kong
- Storm Force Accelatron
- Toon Lagoon
Volcano Bay Rides List
- Honu ika Moana
- Kala & Tai Nui Serpentine Body Slides
- Ko’okiri Body Plunge
- Krakatau Aqua Coaster
- Ohyah & Ohno Drop Slides
- TeAwa the Fearless River
Universal Studios Themed Areas and Rides
You’ll want to know the layout of the parks and attractions, so here is a list of Universal Studios rides by the themed area in which they’re located.
Hollywood
Hollywood has no rides, only the Bourne Stuntacular.
New York
- Race Through New York starring Jimmy Fallon
- Revenge of the Mummy
Production Central
- Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
- Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
- Transformers: The Ride – 3D
San Francisco
- Fast & Furious Supercharged
Springfield, USA
- Kang & Kudo’s Twirl ‘n Hurl
- The Simpsons Ride
The Wizarding World’s Diagon Alley
- Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
- Hogwarts Express: King’s Cross Station
Woody Woodpecker’s KidZone
- E.T. Adventure
- Woody Woodpecker’s Nuthouse Coaster
World Expo
- Men In Black: Alien Attack
Universal Islands of Adventures Themed Areas
Here is a quick list of the themed areas in Islands of Adventure and the rides in each section.
Jurassic Park
- Jurassic Park River Adventure
- Jurassic World VelociCoaster
- Pteranodon Flyers
Marvel Super Hero Island
- Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man
- Doctor Doom’s FearFall
- Incredible Hulk Coaster
- Storm Force Accelatron
Seuss Landing
- Caro-Seuss-El
- Cat in The Hat
- High in The Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride
- One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish
Skull Island
- Skull Island – Reign of King Kong
Toon Lagoon
- Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls
- Popeye and Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges
Hogsmeade
- Flight of the Hippogriff: Hogsmeade Station
- Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
- Harry Potter and The Forbidden Journey
- Hogwarts Express
Universal Studios Florida Rides
The rides and theming of Universal Studios Florida are based on television and film. You’ll find Production Central, Hollywood, and other famous film cities along with attractions based on your favorite movies.
About 80% of Universal Studios’ attractions are indoor, and about 20% are outdoor. If you have park-to-park passes, you can use this information to make the most of any weather you experience. For example, if you’re in the parks on a rainy day, consider enjoying the indoor attractions at Universal Studios.
Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
Minion Mayhem treats you to a delightful adventure with the Minions from the Despicable Me movies. It’s a kid-friendly ride, but adult fans of the Minions will also love the ride.
Ride Type: Motion Simulator ride.
Height Requirement: Min 40” (102 cm). Under 48” (122 cm) Requires Supervising Companion.
Accessibility: “Designed to easily accommodate those transferring from their wheelchair to the ride vehicle.”
3-D Goggles Required: No. It used to use 3D goggles, but since its 2019 remodel, it no longer uses 3-D goggles.
Virtual Queue: Yes.
Express Pass: Yes.
Child Swap Available? No.
Single Rider Line: No.
Nearby Free Lockers to Secure Loose Articles: No.
Who can’t miss it? This ride is fun and funny if you love Gru and the Minions.
Motion Sickness? This ride can trigger motion sickness, especially since the seats move and shake with the ride experience. They have seats that don’t move.
Ride Tip: If you suffer from motion sickness, sit in the seats that don’t move and shake with the ride.
E.T. Adventure
E.T. Adventure is a fun ride through a story based on the movie with good animatronic effects. The ride simulates riding a bicycle and reminds me of Magic Kingdom’s Peter Pan ride. Even though the second half is weird, it is not scary, and every E.T. fan I know loves it.
Ride Type: Kid-friendly dark ride.
Height Requirement: Min 34” (107 cm). Under 48” (122 cm) Requires Supervising Companion.
Accessibility: “Capable of allowing Guests to remain in their standard wheelchair.”
3-D Goggles Available: No.
Virtual Queue: No.
Express Pass: Yes.
Child Swap Available? No.
Single Rider Line: No.
Nearby Free Lockers to Secure Loose Articles: No.
Who can’t miss it? E.T. fans of all ages.
Motion Sickness? No.
Ride Tip: Set an alert for a short wait time, and don’t miss it.
Fast & Furious Supercharged
This is a dark ride, taking you through a car chase and shoot-out adventure featuring the Fast & Furious franchise characters. I think the effects were impressive. You’ll probably enjoy the storyline if you like the movies, but I don’t connect with the story personally.
Ride Type: Dark ride motion simulation.
Height Requirement: Min 40” (102 cm).
Accessibility: Guests must transfer to the ride seat. There is no indication that this rid is is designed for easy transfer.
3-D Goggles Available: No.
Virtual Queue: Yes.
Express Pass: Yes.
Child Swap Available? Yes.
Single Rider Line: No.
Nearby Free Lockers to Secure Loose Articles: No.
Who can’t miss it? Fans of the Fast & the Furious films.
Motion Sickness? Probably.
Ride Tip: If you’re a fan of the movies, check it out for yourself. Set an alert for a shorter wait time.
Fear Factor Live
Fear Factor Live is a live show based on the Fear Factor television show that selects audience members to participate. It has been closed since the beginning of the COVID pandemic and doesn’t have a scheduled reopening date.
Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts™
An indoor steel roller coaster immerses you in a fun story with characters and actors from the Harry Potter movies. The effects are fantastic, and the story is entertaining.
Ride Type: Thrill, roller coaster, 3-D / 4-D Experience.
Height Requirement: Min Height 42” (107 cm). Under 48” (122 cm) Requires Supervising Companion.
Accessibility: “Designed to easily accommodate those transferring from their wheelchair to the ride vehicle.”
3-D Goggles Required: Yes.
Virtual Queue: No.
Express Pass: Yes.
Child Swap Available? Yes.
Single Rider Line: Yes.
Nearby Free Lockers to Secure Loose Articles: Yes.
Who can’t miss it? All Harry Potter fans will love this ride. While it is classified as a thrill ride, it is significantly less scary than Revenge of the Mummy or The Forbidden Journey.
Motion Sickness? My wife does not get sick on this one.
Ride Tip: While a single rider line is available, and you can use the Express Pass, you’ll want to experience the entire queue at least once.
Hogwarts Express: King’s Cross Station
After a trip through King’s Cross Station, the Hogwarts Express takes you on a calm voyage to Hogsmeade Station. It is the best way to travel from Universal Studios to Islands of Adventure. Watch for Harry Potter characters on the outside and inside windows.
Ride Type: Kid-friendly train.
Height Requirement: Under 48” (122 cm) Requires Supervising Companion.
Accessibility: “Capable of allowing Guests to remain in their standard wheelchair.”
3-D Goggles Available: No.
Virtual Queue: No.
Express Pass: Yes.
Child Swap Available? No.
Single Rider Line: No.
Nearby Free Lockers to Secure Loose Articles: No.
Who can’t miss it? Harry Potter fans.
Motion Sickness? No.
Ride Tip: You’ll need a park-to-park ticket to ride the Hogwarts Express. I recommend all Harry Potter fans do this at least one of their park days. Plan your day to travel back to Islands of Adventure at least 2 hours before Universal Studios closing time.
Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
Rip Ride Rocket is a rock-music-themed roller coaster with loops, helices, and a 90-degree verticle ascent. While it is primarily rock-themed, you can also select non-rock songs to listen to during your ride.
Ride Type: Roller coaster thrill ride.
Height Requirement: Min 51” (130 cm).
Accessibility: “Designed to easily accommodate those transferring from their wheelchair to the ride vehicle.”
3-D Goggles Required: No.
Virtual Queue: No.
Express Pass: Yes.
Child Swap Available? Yes.
Single Rider Line: Yes.
Nearby Free Lockers to Secure Loose Articles: Yes.
Who can’t miss it? Roller coaster enthusiasts and rock ‘n roll fans will enjoy Rip Ride Rockit.
Motion Sickness? Yes.
Ride Tip: Rip Ride Rockit is rough, and it gives me a headache, so I usually skip it.
Kang & Kudo’s Twirl ‘n Hurl
Twirl ’n Hurl is a spinning ride based on the aliens from the Simpsons franchise. Like One Fish Two Fish in Universal’s Islands of Adventure and the Dumbo ride in Magic Kingdom, you have controls to raise and lower the cars.
Ride Type: Kid-friendly spinning ride.
Height Requirement: No Min height. Under 48” (122 cm) Requires Supervising Companion.
Accessibility: “Designed to easily accommodate those transferring from their wheelchair to the ride vehicle.”
3-D Goggles Available: No.
Virtual Queue: No.
Express Pass: Yes.
Child Swap Available? No.
Single Rider Line: No.
Nearby Free Lockers to Secure Loose Articles: No.
Who can’t miss it? Younger Simpsons fans.
Motion Sickness? 1, it spins pretty slowly.
Ride Tip: Keep your ears open for insults and jokes from Simpsons characters.
Men In Black: Alien Attack
This ride takes you on an adventure with aliens from the Men in Black movie. The added fun to this one is that you get to shoot at the aliens for points, much like Magic Kingdom’s Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin.
Ride Type: Indoor dark ride.
Height Requirement: Min 42” (107 cm). Under 48” (122 cm) Requires Supervising Companion.
Accessibility: “Capable of allowing Guests to remain in their standard wheelchair.”
3-D Goggles Available: No.
Virtual Queue: No.
Express Pass: Yes.
Child Swap Available? No.
Single Rider Line: No.
Nearby Free Lockers to Secure Loose Articles: No.
Who can’t miss it? Men in Black stans.
Motion Sickness? Mostly no, but the car will spin in circles several times in a row at one point.
Ride Tip: If the park isn’t crowded, ask for “the tour.”
Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon
Relish a virtual race with Jimmy Fallon through the streets of New York City. Who doesn’t love Jimmy Fallon? Seeing the sites of the Big Apple is fun, and Jimmy Fallon cracks a few funny jokes.
Ride Type: Motion Simulator ride, 3-D / 4-D Experience.
Height Requirement: Min 40” (102 cm). Under 48” (122 cm) Requires Supervising Companion.
Accessibility: “Designed to easily accommodate those transferring from their wheelchair to the ride vehicle.”
3-D Goggles Required: No.
Virtual Queue: Subject to availability.
Express Pass: Yes.
Child Swap Available? Yes.
Single Rider Line: No.
Nearby Free Lockers to Secure Loose Articles: No.
Who can’t miss it? If you love New York City, you’ll enjoy this exciting tour.
Motion Sickness? Yes, the ride is fast-paced, with many twists, turns, and virtual ups and downs.
Ride Tip: Watch the app for a short ride time or virtual queue availability. I enjoy Race Through New York immensely, but not enough to wait in line for more than 30 minutes.
Revenge of the Mummy
Revenge of the Mummy is one of our favorite rides, partially because we’re huge fans of the film franchise and mainly because the effects are dazzling, and the ride is thrilling.
Please be advised: Revenge of the Mummy is closed from January 7, 2022, through the late summer of 2022 for “scheduled maintenance.” That seems like a long time for scheduled maintenance.
Ride Type: Thrilling roller coaster with special effects and scenes from the Brandon Frasier The Mummy movies.
Height Requirement: Min 48” (122 cm).
Accessibility: “Designed to easily accommodate those transferring from their wheelchair to the ride vehicle.”
3-D Goggles Required: No.
Virtual Queue: No.
Express Pass: Yes.
Child Swap Available? No.
Single Rider Line: Yes.
Nearby Free Lockers to Secure Loose Articles: Yes.
Who can’t miss it? Fans of The Mummy movies and fans of great roller coasters will love Revenge of the Mummy.
Motion Sickness? While it’s a fast ride with crazy twists and turns and intense special effects, my wife rides this ride time after time without feeling sick.
Ride Tip: After the ride, the exit is a very steep slope descending into the gift shop. Be mindful of that slope if you’re pushing a stroller or wheelchair.
Shrek 4-D
As of January 10, 2022, Shrek 4-D is permanently closed.
The Simpsons Ride
The Simpsons Ride is a mostly stationary motion simulation ride that takes you through an adventure with Simpsons characters. The seating area shakes and tilts along with the action on the screen, so it may cause some motion sickness. The storyline is intriguing, the effects are fantastic, and the hilarious jokes.
Ride Type: Motion Simulation, 3-D / 4-D experience.
Height Requirement: Min 40” (102 cm). Under 48” (122 cm) Requires Supervising Companion.
Accessibility: “Designed to easily accommodate those transferring from their wheelchair to the ride vehicle.”
3-D Goggles Available: No.
Virtual Queue: No.
Express Pass: Yes.
Child Swap Available? Yes.
Single Rider Line: No.
Nearby Free Lockers to Secure Loose Articles: No.
Who can’t miss it? Simpsons fans of all ages.
Motion Sickness? Yes.
Ride Tip: I’m not a huge Simpsons fan, but I love this ride. It is hilarious and fun.
Transformers: The Ride – 3D
This ride takes you through a 3-D adventure based on characters from the Transformers movies, including Optimus Prime and Megatron. I’ve only seen one of the movies, so I’m not a huge fan and not familiar with the characters or storylines. Still, this ride is a blast, and I will undoubtedly ride it each time I visit the parks.
Ride Type: Motion Simulation dark ride, 3-D / 4-D Experience.
Height Requirement: Min 40” (102 cm).
Accessibility: Guests must transfer to the ride seat. There is no indication that this rid is is designed for easy transfer.
3-D Goggles Available: Yes.
Virtual Queue: No.
Express Pass: Yes.
Child Swap Available? Yes.
Single Rider Line: Yes.
Nearby Free Lockers to Secure Loose Articles: No.
Who can’t miss it? Fans of the Transformers movies.
Motion Sickness? Yes.
Ride Tip: Even if you’re not a fan of the movies, give it a shot. Watch the app for a short wait time. I set an alert for a short ride time and was able to walk directly to the car without waiting.
Woody Woodpecker’s Nuthouse Coaster
Woody’s Nuthouse Coaster is a small roller coaster themed with the Woody Woodpecker cartoon. I love kids’ roller coasters, so I love this ride.
Ride Type: Kid-friends roller coaster.
Height Requirement: Min 36” (92 cm). Under 48” (122 cm) Requires Supervising Companion.
Accessibility: “Designed to easily accommodate those transferring from their wheelchair to the ride vehicle.”
3-D Goggles Available: No.
Virtual Queue: No.
Express Pass: Yes.
Child Swap Available? No.
Single Rider Line: No.
Nearby Free Lockers to Secure Loose Articles: No.
Who can’t miss it? Take your smaller kids on this ride.
Motion Sickness? No.
Ride Tip: Watch your knees sitting in the small car.
Rides in Universal’s Islands of Adventure
The indoor/outdoor rides ratio in Islands of Adventure is 20% indoor and 80% outdoor attractions, including three water rides. If the weather is pleasant during your park days, you can use this information to enjoy a glorious central Florida day.
Here are the rides of Universal’s Islands of Adventure in alphabetical order.
The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man
This ride takes you through a story featuring characters from the Disney XD animated Spider-Man series. I have no idea whey characters from the Disney XD show are at Universal. Just enjoy the ride!
Ride Type: Dark ride, 3-D / 4-D Experience.
Height Requirement: Min 40” (102 cm). Under 48” (122 cm) Requires Supervising Companion.
Accessibility: Guests must transfer to the ride seat. There is no indication that this rid is is designed for easy transfer.
3-D Goggles Available: Yes.
Virtual Queue: No.
Express Pass: Yes.
Child Swap Available? No.
Single Rider Line: No.
Nearby Free Lockers to Secure Loose Articles: No.
Who can’t miss it? Fans of Spider-man, thrilling stories, or fantastic effects.
Motion Sickness? Definitely.
Ride Tip: This is one of the best rides in Orlando. Don’t miss it.
Caro-Seuss-El
Caro-Seuss-el is a classic carousel, Dr. Seuess-style. It spins a little faster and is full of characters and creatures inspired by the mind of Dr. Seuess.
Ride Type: Kid-friendly carousel.
Height Requirement: No Minimum height. Under 48” (122 cm) Requires Supervising Companion.
Accessibility: “Capable of allowing Guests to remain in their standard wheelchair.”
3-D Goggles Available: No.
Virtual Queue: No.
Express Pass: Yes.
Child Swap Available? No.
Single Rider Line: No.
Nearby Free Lockers to Secure Loose Articles: No.
Who can’t miss it? If you love Dr. Seuess or carousels, you can’t miss this one.
Motion Sickness? Being a carousel, it does spin, and this one spins faster than other carousels.
Ride Tip: Some seats are interactive. Try pulling the reigns, etc.
The Cat in The Hat
The cars take you on an entertaining journey through the house and story from the famous book and movie, using clever light sequences and animatronics. If you enjoy Cat’s humor, you’ll love this ride.
Ride Type: Kid-friendly dark ride.
Height Requirement: Min 36” (92 cm). Under 48” (122 cm) Requires Supervising Companion.
Accessibility: “Capable of allowing Guests to remain in their standard wheelchair.”
3-D Goggles Available: No.
Virtual Queue: No.
Express Pass: Yes.
Child Swap Available? No.
Single Rider Line: No.
Nearby Free Lockers to Secure Loose Articles: No.
Who can’t miss it? Dr. Suess fans of all ages.
Motion Sickness? The trains twist and turn, but the people I know who are prone to motion sickness can enjoy Cat in the Hat.
Ride Tip: Listen to the dialog. The jokes are funny.
Doctor Doom’s FearFall
Your car rises quickly up the 185-foot tower, pauses, then unexpectedly drops several feet. The thrill is in the speed of the plunges but mostly in not knowing what will happen next.
Ride Type: Thrill drop tower ride.
Height Requirement: Min 52” (132 cm).
Accessibility: “Designed to easily accommodate those transferring from their wheelchair to the ride vehicle.”
3-D Goggles Available: No.
Virtual Queue: No.
Express Pass: Yes.
Child Swap Available? Yes.
Single Rider Line: Yes.
Nearby Free Lockers to Secure Loose Articles: No.
Who can’t miss it? If you want a nice view of the parks before an unexpected freefall, this is the ride for you!
Motion Sickness? Doctor Doom’s Fearfall is more scarry than sickness-inducing.
Ride Tip: Give your food time to digest.
Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls
Description.
Ride Type: Flume water ride.
Height Requirement: Min 44” (112 cm). Under 48” (122 cm) Requires Supervising Companion.
Accessibility: “Designed to easily accommodate those transferring from their wheelchair to the ride vehicle.”
3-D Goggles Available: No.
Virtual Queue: No.
Express Pass: Yes.
Child Swap Available? No.
Single Rider Line: No.
Nearby Free Lockers to Secure Loose Articles: No.
Who can’t miss it? If you want to get wet, this is one of the rides to do it! Also, if you’re obsessed with flume rides like I am, this is a great one.
Motion Sickness? No.
Ride Tip: If you don’t want to get wet, wear a poncho.
Flight of the Hippogriff
I admit that I love kid-friendly roller coasters, and for the roller coaster alone, Flight of the Hippogriff is one of the best. What makes it a must-do ride are the spectacular views of Hogsmeade Village and Hogwarts Castle. You won’t find a better vista in Orlando.
Ride Type: Kid-friendly roller coaster.
Height Requirement: Min 36” (92 cm). Under 48” (122 cm) Requires Supervising Companion.
Accessibility: “Designed to easily accommodate those transferring from their wheelchair to the ride vehicle.”
3-D Goggles Available: No.
Virtual Queue: No.
Express Pass: Yes.
Child Swap Available? No.
Single Rider Line: No.
Nearby Free Lockers to Secure Loose Articles: No.
Who can’t miss it? Harry Potter fans and roller coaster fans.
Motion Sickness? No.
Ride Tip: Flight of the Hippogriff offers stunning views of Hogwarts Castle and Hogsmeade Village.
Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
One of the new rides in Universal Orlando, Hagrid’s Magical Motorbike Adventure, is the best ride in Orlando. Harry Potter fans will appreciate the obscure easter eggs, and thrill ride enthusiasts will enjoy the various launches and drops.
Jolly Hagrid takes you on a fantastic journey and story through the Forbidden Forest. The ride will make you even more of a Hagrid fan! This ride has so much to experience, including unique vantage points, bikes vs. sidecars, and from the front of the train vs. the back.
We rode this ride at least ten times during our visit, noticing something new or enjoying a unique vantage point each ride.
Ride Type: Thrilling multi-launch roller coaster.
Height Requirement: Min 48” (122 cm).
Accessibility: “Designed to easily accommodate those transferring from their wheelchair to the ride vehicle.”
3-D Goggles Available: No.
Virtual Queue: Yes.
Express Pass: No.
Child Swap Available? Yes.
Single Rider Line: No.
Nearby Free Lockers to Secure Loose Articles: Yes.
Who can’t miss it? Fans of Harry Potter or fantastic roller coasters.
Motion Sickness? My wife road it several times without getting nauseous. One of my kids got nauseous riding in a sidecar and watching her reflection as we sped around the pond. It made her sick, but the experience is surreal, and you must try it.
Ride Tip: If you’re lucky enough to get the front bike, ride leaning forward slightly with your arms out to the side. Wow.
Harry Potter and The Forbidden Journey
The Forbidden Journey takes you on an adventure with characters and actors from the Harry Potter movies around Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry castle grounds. The effects are stunning, the story is fantastic, and the actors are convincing.
I sincerely love and appreciate that each actor gives top performances in every one of the Wizarding World attractions.
Ride Type: Thrill, Motion Simulation, 3-D / 4-D Experience.
Height Requirement: Min 48” (122 cm).
Accessibility: “Designed to easily accommodate those transferring from their wheelchair to the ride vehicle.”
3-D Goggles Available: No.
Virtual Queue: Yes.
Express Pass: Yes.
Child Swap Available? Yes.
Single Rider Line: Yes.
Nearby Free Lockers to Secure Loose Articles: Yes.
Who can’t miss it? Harry Potter fans.
Motion Sickness? Definitely, because the ride cars twist and turn in every way imaginable.
Ride Tip: If you’re not afraid of dementors, try to sit in the far right seat.
High in The Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride
This ride is more of a train than a roller coaster. I love the references to the Sneetches. Although not as good as the views from Flight of the Hippogriff, High in the Sky Seuss Trolly Train Ride will grant you unforgettable views of Seuss Landing and the lagoon.
Ride Type: Kid-friendly train ride. In the sky!
Height Requirement: Min 42” (107 cm). Under 48” (122 cm) Requires Supervising Companion.
Accessibility: “Designed to easily accommodate those transferring from their wheelchair to the ride vehicle.”
3-D Goggles Available: No.
Virtual Queue: No.
Express Pass: Yes.
Child Swap Available? No.
Single Rider Line: No.
Nearby Free Lockers to Secure Loose Articles: No.
Who can’t miss it? Fans of Dr. Seuess or great views.
Motion Sickness? No.
Ride Tip: There are two tracks, and each offers a unique experience. Try to ride both.
Hogwarts Express: Hogsmeade Station
The Hogwarts Express travels back and forth between Hogsmeade Station and King’s Cross Station. Not only is this a great way to travel between the two Universal Orlando theme parks, but each ride on the Hogwarts Express is also a unique experience.
Ride Type: Kid-friendly train.
Height Requirement: Under 48” (122 cm) Requires Supervising Companion.
Accessibility: “Capable of allowing Guests to remain in their standard wheelchair.”
3-D Goggles Available: No.
Virtual Queue: No.
Express Pass: Yes.
Child Swap Available? No.
Single Rider Line: No.
Nearby Free Lockers to Secure Loose Articles: No.
Who can’t miss it? Harry Potter fans.
Motion Sickness? No.
Ride Tip: You’ll need a park-to-park ticket to ride the Hogwarts Express. I recommend all Harry Potter fans do this at least one of their park days. Don’t ride to a park closing earlier within an hour of that park closing.
Incredible Hulk Coaster
The Incredible Hulk Coaster is the 2nd most intense roller coaster I’ve ever enjoyed. It’s majestic and gloriously green and the first thing you’ll notice after you enter Islands of Adventure. You can practically feel the gamma radiation as you wait in the queue.
My younger friends love this ride. It shoots out of dock at 40 miles per hour and reaches a top speed of 67 miles per hour. While the nonstop action is a blast, the loops and turns are a few too many G-forces for me. I wish I were younger, so I could enjoy it with less pain.
Ride Type: Thrilling roller coaster.
Height Requirement: Min 54” (138 cm).
Accessibility: Guests must transfer to the ride seat. There is no indication that this rid is is designed for easy transfer.
3-D Goggles Available: No.
Virtual Queue: No.
Express Pass: Yes.
Child Swap Available? Yes.
Single Rider Line: Yes.
Nearby Free Lockers to Secure Loose Articles: Yes.
Who can’t miss it? Roller coaster enthusiasts.
Motion Sickness? Yes.
Ride Tip: Super fun and smooth but harsh. Try to ride in an outside seat.
Jurassic Park River Adventure
A fun story through the wildlife of Jurassic Park (in other words, dinosaurs!) with a pitch-black 85-foot plunge at the end.
Ride Type: Thrill water ride.
Height Requirement: Min 42” (107 cm). Under 48” (122 cm) Requires Supervising Companion.
Accessibility: “Designed to easily accommodate those transferring from their wheelchair to the ride vehicle.”
3-D Goggles Available: No.
Virtual Queue: No.
Express Pass: Yes.
Child Swap Available? Yes.
Single Rider Line: No.
Nearby Free Lockers to Secure Loose Articles: No.
Who can’t miss it? Dinosaur fans and anyone who wants to get wet.
Motion Sickness? No.
Ride Tip: Wear a poncho if you don’t want to get wet.
Jurassic World VelociCoaster
The newest ride at the parks opened in 2021. I haven’t had a chance to ride it yet, but I hear that it’s even better than Hagrid’s Magical Motorbike Adventure. While the roller coaster alone may be one of the nation’s best, the ride is also heavily themed with Jurassic World.
Ride Type: Thrilling roller coaster.
Height Requirement: Min 51” (130 cm).
Accessibility: “Designed to easily accommodate those transferring from their wheelchair to the ride vehicle.”
3-D Goggles Available: No.
Virtual Queue: No.
Express Pass: No.
Child Swap Available? Yes.
Single Rider Line: Yes.
Nearby Free Lockers to Secure Loose Articles: Yes.
Who can’t miss it? Roller coaster enthusiasts.
Motion Sickness? Yes.
Ride Tip: There is a separate line for guests who want to ride in the first row.
One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish
One Fish Two Fish is a spinning ride like Kang & Kudo’s Twirl n Hurl or the Dumbo ride at Magic Kingdom, but themed with sea creatures based on Dr. Suess’s books.
Ride Type: Kid-friendly spinning ride.
Height Requirement: No minimum height. Under 48” (122 cm) Requires Supervising Companion.
Accessibility: “Capable of allowing Guests to remain in their standard wheelchair.”
3-D Goggles Available: No.
Virtual Queue: No.
Express Pass: Yes.
Child Swap Available? No.
Single Rider Line: No.
Nearby Free Lockers to Secure Loose Articles: No.
Who can’t miss it? Dr. Suess fans of all ages.
Motion Sickness? No.
Ride Tip: You may enjoy an opportunity to get a little wet!
Popeye and Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges
Round rafts take you through a white water adventure themed with Popeye. For added fun (I’m not sure who’s), other guests can spray water at you from Me Ship, Olive.
Ride Type: White water raft ride.
Height Requirement: Min 42” (107 cm). Under 48” (122 cm) Requires Supervising Companion.
Accessibility: “Designed to easily accommodate those transferring from their wheelchair to the ride vehicle.”
3-D Goggles Available: No.
Virtual Queue: No.
Express Pass: Yes.
Child Swap Available? Yes.
Single Rider Line: No.
Nearby Free Lockers to Secure Loose Articles: No.
Who can’t miss it? If you want to get wet, this is the ride for you.
Motion Sickness? No.
Ride Tip: You will get wet.
Pteranodon Flyers
Pteranadon Flyers is a suspended roller coaster for kids. In fact, if you don’t have a guest under 56”, you don’t get to ride it. It looks like a lot of fun and probably has great views of the park, and the Pteranodon cars are super cool.
Ride Type: Kid-friendly suspended roller coaster.
Height Requirement: Min 36” (107 cm). Max height 56”. Over 56” (122 cm) Requires Supervising Companion under 56”.
Accessibility: “Designed to easily accommodate those transferring from their wheelchair to the ride vehicle.”
3-D Goggles Available: No.
Virtual Queue: Yes.
Express Pass: Yes.
Child Swap Available? No.
Single Rider Line: No.
Nearby Free Lockers to Secure Loose Articles: No.
Who can’t miss it? People without small kids can undoubtedly miss it!
Motion Sickness? No.
Ride Tip: Please let me borrow your kid so that I can ride this ride!
Skull Island – Reign of Kong
Based on the 2005 King Kong movie, this ride lives up to the movie’s intensity. The fight scenes all around you are immersive and thrilling.
Ride Type: Thrill, Motion Simulation, 3-D / 4-D Experience.
Height Requirement: Min 36” (92 cm). Under 48” (122 cm) Requires Supervising Companion.
Accessibility: “Capable of allowing Guests to remain in their standard wheelchair.”
3-D Goggles Available: Yes.
Virtual Queue: No.
Express Pass: Yes.
Child Swap Available? Yes.
Single Rider Line: No.
Nearby Free Lockers to Secure Loose Articles: No.
Who can’t miss it? Fans of epic, monster fights.
Motion Sickness? Yes.
Ride Tip: The height requirement is shorter for this ride, but it may be too intense for small children.
Storm Force Accelatron
Accelatron is a spinning ride like the Mad Hatter Tea Party at Magic Kingdom. You can use the wheel in the middle to spin your car faster.
Ride Type: Kid-friendly spinning ride.
Height Requirement: No minimum height. Under 48” (122 cm) Requires Supervising Companion.
Accessibility: “Designed to easily accommodate those transferring from their wheelchair to the ride vehicle.”
3-D Goggles Available: No.
Virtual Queue: No.
Express Pass: Yes.
Child Swap Available? No.
Single Rider Line: No.
Nearby Free Lockers to Secure Loose Articles: No.
Who can’t miss it? Fans of spinning teacup rides.
Motion Sickness? Yes!
Ride Tip: Spin clockwise to add to your fun (and perhaps dizziness).
Volcano Bay Rides List
Volcano Bay gets admitted from most Universal rides lists because it’s a water park. Since they are mostly water slides, they don’t have the same requirements as land rides.
My friends who enjoy water parks agree that Volcano Bay is exceptional and prefer it over the water parks at Disney World.
- Honu ika Moana
- Kala & Tai Nui Serpentine Body Slides
- Ko’okiri Body Plunge
- Krakatau Aqua Coaster
- Ohyah & Ohno Drop Slides
- TeAwa the Fearless River
I have two other resources with excellent information about the rides at Volcano Bay.
For a description of the attractions at Volcano Bay, check out the Volcano Bay section of Ultimate Guide to the Best Rides at Universal.
We discussed Volcano By on my podcast, All Things Travel. Check out the Ultimate Tour of Universal’s Volcano Bay.
List of Rides With a Virtual Queue
Universal Studios Forida:
- Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
- Fast & Furious – Supercharged
- Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
- Ollivanders Experience in Hogsmeade
- Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon
- Revenge of the Mummy
Universal Islands of Adventure:
- Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
- Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
- Ollivanders Experience in Diagon Alley
- Pteranodon Flyers
- Skull Island: Reign of Kong
List of Rides Included With “Early Park Admission”
Below are the rides generally open for early park admission. Ollivander’s will occasionally open early too, but not officially and not often. The best way to ensure you get early park admission is to stay at one of the Universal Orlando resorts or purchase your tickets through a travel agent.
Universal Studios Forida:
- Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
- Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts™
Universal Islands of Adventure:
- Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
- Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
- Flight of the Hippogriff
- VelociCoaster
List of Rides Not Included With Universal Express Pass
This list of rides is not included with Express Pass, but it usually consists of the newest and most popular rides. For example, Escape from Gringotts was excluded from Express Pass before the VelociCoaster debuted.
Universal Express Pass and Express Unlimited are add-ons to your park tickets, and the prices are based on anticipated park attendance. The more crowded the park is expected to be, the higher the price for Express Pass will be.
Universal Studios Forida:
- Fievel’s Playland®
Universal Islands of Adventure:
- Pteranodon Flyers®
- Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure™
- Jurassic World VelociCoaster
Accessibility Information
I think Universal does a pretty good job of making their rides accessible. They’re not perfect, especially with the older attractions, but they are getting better.
Some rides are designed to allow guests to remain in their wheelchairs (standard wheelchairs), and some other attractions are designed for easy transfer from wheelchair to the ride. You’ll notice that a few attractions are designed for both.
Additionally, you can ask for an accessibility pass, which is similar to Express passes for skipping lines.
List of Rides Capable of Allowing Guests to Remain in Their Standard Wheelchair
Universal Studios Forida:
- Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
- Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls
- Flight of the Hippogriff
- Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
- Harry Potter and The Forbidden Journey
- High in The Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride
- Jurassic Park River Adventure
- Jurassic World VelociCoaster
- Popeye and Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges
- Race Through New York starring Jimmy Fallon
- Storm Force Accelatron
Universal Islands of Adventure:
- Caro-Seuss-El
- Cat in The Hat
- Hogwarts Express: Hogsmeade Station*
- One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish
- Skull Island – Reign of Kong
List of Rides Designed for Easy Transfer from Wheelchair
Universal Studios Forida:
- E.T. Adventure
- Hogwarts Express: King’s Cross Station*
- Men In Black: Alien Attack
- Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
- Race Through New York starring Jimmy Fallon
Universal Islands of Adventure:
- Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
- Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
- Kang & Kudo’s Twirl ‘n Hurl
- Revenge of the Mummy
- The Simpsons Ride
- Woody Woodpecker’s Nuthouse Coaster
List of Rides With a Single Rider Line
Universal Studios Forida:
- Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
- Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
- Men in Black Alien Attack
- Revenge of the Mummy
- Transformers: The Ride – 3D
Universal Islands of Adventure:
- The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man
- Dr. Doom’s Fearfall
- Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
- The Incredible Hulk Coaster
- Jurassic World VelociCoaster
List of Rides With Child Swap Available
Universal Studios Forida:
- Fast & Furious – Supercharged
- Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts™
- Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
- Men in Black Alien Attack
- Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon
- Revenge of the Mummy
- The Simpsons Ride
- Transformers: The Ride-3D
Universal Islands of Adventure:
- The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man
- Doctor Doom’s Fearfall
- Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls
- Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
- Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
- The Incredible Hulk Coaster
- Jurassic Park River Adventure
- Jurassic World VelociCoaster
- Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges
- Skull Island: Reign of Kong
List of Rides With Free Lockers to Secure Loose Items
Universal is extra diligent about ensuring no loose articles are hurled out of our pockets onto unsuspecting guests on a few attractions. They even have metal detectors on a couple of rides.
For a few of these rides, Universal offers free, easy-to-use lockers to safely store your personal items while you safely enjoy the ride without having to carry all your stuff.
Admittedly, I was a little miffed the first time I encountered this, and I thought it was a way to get us to pay for lockers. Now, I love this benefit, enjoying the attractions without carrying my backpack and shopping bag full of new magic wands.
The lockers do have a time limit, after which they’ll charge you to store your items. While you can’t “game the system,” you have plenty of time to enjoy the attraction with your items in the locker. We have frequently enjoyed attractions two or three times with our stuff in the lockers and have never incurred a charge.
Universal Studios Forida:
- Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
- Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
- Revenge of the Mummy
Universal Islands of Adventure:
- Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
- Jurassic World VelociCoaster
- Incredible Hulk Coaster
List of Rides That Use 3-D Goggles
Universal Studios Forida:
- Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
- Race Through New York starring Jimmy Fallon
- Transformers: The Ride – 3D
- Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
Universal Islands of Adventure:
- Skull Island – Reign of Kong
- Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man
Question: What is your favorite ride at Universal?
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Complete the Entire Universal Orlando Journey
Want to know the best rides at Universal and a little detail about each ride’s experience? I have a list of the best rides in the Universal parks and each park section. Check out Ultimate Guide to the Best Rides at Universal (2022).
Also, check out the following episodes of the All Things Travel podcast. We break down everything you’ll need to know about the parks.
- Episode 6: Universal Orlando Introduction
- Episode 11: The Grand Tour of Universal Studios Florida
- Episode 13: The Grand Tour of Universal Islands of Adventure.
- Episode 15: The Grand Tour of Universal’s Volcano Bay
- Episode 18: The Grand Tour of Universal’s CityWalk and Resorts.
- Episode 33: Comparing Disney World and Universal Orlando (in 2021)
- Episode 34: Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside.
- Episode 43: The Best Rides at Universal Orlando.
References:
For complete details straight from the horse’s mouth, check out the Universal Orlando Resort Guide For Rider Safety and Accessibility.