Are you planning a thrilling adventure at Universal’s Islands of Adventure but feeling overwhelmed by the multitude of rides to choose from?
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! After extensive research and personal experiences, we’ve curated a guide that will help you prioritize and make the most of your visit.
Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey as we reveal our top picks for the 10 best rides that will leave you exhilarated and wanting more.
The Top 10 Rides at Islands of Adventure
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
Ride Style: Indoor Dark Travel Ride
Most Suited To: Fantasy Loving Families
We absolutely adore “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” – it’s an unforgettable broomstick ride through the iconic Hogwarts Castle and one of our personal favorites. From the moment we embarked on this 4K-HD adventure, we found ourselves immersed in J.K. Rowling’s magical wizarding world.
During the ride, you dodge a dragon, evade dementors, and navigate numerous other magical obstacles. But the magic began even before the ride started.
Before you start the actual ride, you experience the immersive queue line, walking through the castle, with its breathtaking sights like Professor Dumbledore’s office and the Defense Against Dark Arts classroom.
The moment we stepped into the real-life Great Hall, we got goosebumps. It felt like we were living in the pages of the beloved books. This spellbinding experience is not to be missed, making it easy for us to vote it as one of the best rides.
The Incredible Hulk Coaster
Ride Style: Intense Launch Coaster
Most Suited To: Extreme Thrill Seekers
We can’t get enough of The Incredible Hulk Coaster! It’s hands down one of the most thrilling rides at Islands of Adventure.
This high-speed roller coaster launches you from 0 to 40 mph in just two seconds, and you can feel the excitement building up. You soar through seven inversions, twisting and turning at intense speeds.
The bright green loops, corkscrews, and zero-gravity rolls had our hearts racing, and the incredible G-forces left us breathless and craving more.
It’s no wonder we consider it one of the best rides at the park. So if you love a high-speed roller coaster, this is a top choice for you!
VelociCoaster
Ride Style: Launch Roller Coaster
Most Suited To: Dinosaur-Loving Thrill Seekers
You absolutely cannot miss the VelociCoaster at Islands of Adventure – it’s one of the best rides we’ve ever been on! From the moment we hopped on this heart-pounding roller coaster, we knew we were in for an adventure like no other.
As you soar through twists, turns, and inversions at speeds up to 70 miles per hour, you can feel the adrenaline rushing.
As you go through the ride you encounter life-sized velociraptors up close and the breathtaking views of the park make your heart race. It’s a prehistoric adventure that will leave you breathless and wanting to ride again and again.
Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
Ride Style: Motorbike Style Roller Coaster
Most Suited To: Harry Potter Lovers & Families
As fans of the Harry Potter series, we were beyond excited to hop on board and be whisked away into the magical world of Hogwarts.
From the moment you set foot in the queue, the attention to detail is truly remarkable. The immersive theming transports you to Hagrid’s hut, with props and artifacts that make you feel like a true witch or wizard.
Once on board, the ride vehicles are ingeniously designed to resemble Hagrid’s motorbike and sidecar, creating a unique and thrilling experience.
The motion and special effects combine seamlessly to make you feel like you’re soaring through the Forbidden Forest alongside Hagrid himself!
This ride does not feature any upside-down elements, making it great for younger riders who still want a rollercoaster thrill without too much scare!
Jurassic Park River Adventure
Ride Style: Flume Ride
Most Suited To: Over 5’s
If you’re a fan of dinosaurs and heart-pounding excitement, the Jurassic Park River Adventure is an absolute must-try!
From the moment you step into the queue, you’ll be immersed in the world of Jurassic Park, surrounded by lush landscapes and interactive displays that set the stage for the adventure to come.
Once aboard the boat, you ride through a prehistoric paradise. You’ll encounter lifelike dinosaurs that will both awe and shock you, from gentle herbivores to the fearsome T. rex.
The attention to detail in the animatronics and set design is truly remarkable, making you feel like you’re right in the heart of the action.
The attraction strikes a perfect balance between excitement and accessibility, making it suitable for families of all ages. While there are moments of intense suspense, they’re balanced by more tranquil scenes that allow you to soak in the atmosphere.
Flight of the Hippogriff
Ride Style: Junior Coasters
Most Suited To: Younger Coaster Lovers
Flight of the Hippogriff is an exciting ride at Islands of Adventure that takes you on a magical journey through the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
As you hop on your own Hippogriff, a majestic creature with the body of a horse and the wings of an eagle, you take a flight filled with twists and turns.
With its family-friendly experience and moderate thrills, this ride is perfect for all ages.
Soar through Hagrid’s pumpkin patch and enjoy breathtaking views of Hogwarts Castle as you explore the enchanting grounds of Hogsmeade Village.
The Amazing Adventures of Spiderman
Ride Style: Slow 3D Track Ride
Most Suited To: Families and Younger Riders
From the moment you step into the queue of The Amazing Adventures of Spiderman, you’ll be transported into the world of Marvel. The attention to detail is impressive, with Daily Bugle headlines and familiar characters setting the scene for the adventure.
You’ll join forces with Spider-Man as a daring reporter, and the 3D glasses seamlessly blend the real world with the comic book universe.
The state-of-the-art technology used in this ride will make you feel like you’re right there alongside Spiderman himself.
With stunning visuals, heart-pounding action, and unexpected surprises at every turn, this is one adventure that will leave you wanting more.
Dudley-Do-Right Ripsaw Falls
Ride Style: Dark Flume Ride
Most Suited To: Water Ride Lovers
This family-friendly water ride takes you on a hilarious journey with the bumbling Royal Canadian Mounted Police officer as he tries to rescue Nell from the clutches of Snidely Whiplash.
Embark on a log flume that and splashes its way through misty caves and roaring rapids.
Brace yourself for the heart-stopping drop that will leave you drenched in excitement! It’s a ride full of laughter, surprises, and refreshing fun for everyone in the family.
Skull Island Reign of Kong
Ride Style: 4D Safari Style Adventure
Most Suited To: Action Loving Families
Skull Island Reign of Kong takes you on a truck adventure into the world of King Kong. As you board your expedition vehicle, get ready for an epic journey through the treacherous jungles of Skull Island.
Keep your limbs in the vehicle as you encounter fearsome creatures, massive dinosaurs, and iconic scenes through 3D glasses from the Kong films.
The immersive storytelling and heart-pounding special effects will leave you in awe.
It’s an experience that both kids and adults will love, making it one of the must-try rides at Islands of Adventure.
Popeye’s and Bluto’s Bilge Rat-Barges
Ride Style: River Rapids
Most Suited To: Super Soakers
Popeye’s and Bluto’s Bilge Rat-Barges is a rapids water ride that is sure to get your heart pumping. Climb aboard one of 12 seater rafts and prepare for a wild adventure through the rapids.
As you make your way down the river, be prepared to get wet as you navigate sharp turns, mini dips, and even some unexpected waterfalls.
It’s a fun-filled experience that will leave you laughing and soaked from head to toe.
It’s worth noting that you are welcome to bring your belongings onto this ride, they go in the waterproof center which protects from most water splashing, but not 100%!
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Island of Adventure at Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida offers an incredible array of thrilling and unforgettable rides.
From the magical world of Harry Potter to the heart-pounding adventures in Jurassic Park, there is something for everyone.
Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping roller coasters or immersive experiences with your favorite characters, this amusement park has it all.
Don’t miss out on these top-rated attractions when you visit the Island of Adventure – they are a must-try for any adventure seeker!
FAQs
What ride should you go first in Islands of Adventure?
If you are arriving when the park opens, head to the more popular attractions first as the wait times can get long throughout the day. We would recommend choosing Velocicoaster, Hulk, or any of the Harry Potter Rides first.
What is the most intense ride at Islands of Adventure?
We would vote the Velocicoaster as the most intense in the park. This roller coaster takes you on a thrilling journey through the jungle, with high-speed twists, turns, and inversions.
Its close competition to the Incredible Hulk, but the added excitement of entering the Jurassic Park world on the Velocicoaster just tips it for us.
Are there any rides suitable for young children at Islands of Adventure?
Yes, if you are visiting with younger children, Seuss Landing is a great area that includes rides and experiences that are generally geared toward children between the ages of 2 to 12.
