Best Universal Orlando Rides 

Discover the Top 13 Rides Across Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and Epic Universe

Universal Orlando Resort is one of Florida’s top theme park destinations, featuring an impressive list of rides at Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure. While many of these attractions cater to older kids, teens, and adults seeking high-adrenaline experiences, there are still plenty of options available for visitors of all ages. What sets Universal apart is its focus on immersive, cutting-edge attractions that blend storytelling with state-of-the-art technology.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve put together this guide highlighting the best Universal Orlando rides for 2025. We’ve ranked our top choices, focusing on some of the best offerings across both parks.  From thrilling roller coasters to groundbreaking dark rides, here are the top ten experiences that should be at the top of your list for your next Universal vacation.

1. Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure

Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure is a multiple-launch motorbike steel roller coaster located in the Hogsmeade area of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal’s Islands of Adventure theme park.

Since its opening in 2019, Hagrid’s has quickly become one of the most popular attractions at Universal Orlando Resort. It holds the title of the most expensive roller coaster ever built, costing $300 million, and is also recognized as one of the most immersive experiences.

Universal describes the ride as “a highly themed roller coaster that takes guests into a different corner of the wizarding world, where they will encounter some of their favorite characters and creatures.”

The Ride

Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure combines compelling storytelling with thrilling elements.

It features a maximum height of 65 feet, a maximum drop of 17 feet, a maximum vertical angle of 70 degrees, and a total length of 5,053 feet. Hagrid’s top speed reaches 50 MPH, and while there are no inversions, the ride does include a reverse section, a drop track, and seven launches.

The launches are as follows:

• 0 to 20 mph in 1.2 seconds
• 22 mph to 30 mph in 1.5 seconds
• 0 to 32 mph in 3.5 seconds
• 27 mph to 35 mph in 2.3 seconds
• 21 mph to 41 mph in 2.5 seconds
• 37 mph to 44 mph in 1.7 seconds
• 0 to 50 mph in 4 seconds

Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure at Islands of Adventure features outstanding animatronics and immersive theming. This ride truly stands out as one of the best-themed coasters in any park, especially for Harry Potter fans! With its excellent theming combined with the excitement that thrill-seekers crave, we rank it as the top overall ride at Universal Orlando Resort.

Category: Roller Coaster

Theme: Forbidden Forest

Location: Islands of Adventure; The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade

Opening Date: June 13, 2019

Height Requirement: 48″ (122 cm)

Duration: 2:55

2. Jurassic World VelociCoaster

The Jurassic World VelociCoaster ranks just behind Hagrid’s as the second-best ride at Universal Orlando Resort and is one of the top roller coasters in any Florida theme park!

The attraction opened on June 10, 2021, and is located in the Jurassic Park section of Universal’s Islands of Adventure theme park. It is themed around the Jurassic World movie franchise.

VelociCoaster is in the steel rollercoaster (launched) category and has a height of 155 ft, a drop of 140 ft, and a length of 4,000 ft.

Since its opening, the coaster has received many accolades, and for good reason.

The Ride

Guests proceed through the queue and enter an examination room. There, you will encounter two caged animatronic Velociraptors.

Take a seat on the four-train coaster and buckle up.  The 1st launch goes from 0 to 50 in 2 seconds, and the 2nd launch goes from 40 to 70 mph in 2.4 seconds. The coaster features airtime, laterals, near misses, and four inversions, and the max vertical angle is 80°.  It’s one of the most exhilarating rides we’ve ever been on.

This ride has fantastic theming, cool animatronics, and a great layout. It’s sure to excite Jurassic Park fans and roller coaster enthusiasts alike.

The VelociCoaster only lasts 2 minutes…but what a 2 minutes it is!

Category: Steel roller coaster, launched

Theme: Jurassic Park

Location: Islands of Adventure; Jurassic Park

Opening Date: June 10, 2021

Height Requirement: 51″ (130 cm)

Duration: 2:00

3. Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ranks #3 on our Best Universal Orlando rides list.

The attraction is categorized as a motion-based dark ride within the Wizarding World of Harry Potter area of the Island of Adventure theme park. It utilizes innovative technology to transform the theme park experience like never before.

Forbidden Journey is a fascinating, in-depth exploration of the world of Harry Potter.

It uses locations and scenes in and around Hogwarts Castle as the backdrop. If you are a fan of the Harry Potter series, some of this will look familiar.

The Ride

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter-themed area is a highlight of any Universal Orlando Resort vacation.

It’s rich in detail, and the experience really immerses you in a lifelike experience that mimics the books and films.

While Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure claims the top spot in Hogsmeade, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey remains one of the standout attractions of the land.

This attraction is a wild ride that features a getaway through Hogwarts Castle, a harrowing encounter with Death Eaters, a high-flying Quidditch match, and other heart-racing moments with Harry.

The attraction also showcases a real theme park innovation with its robotic ride vehicles.

The Forbidden Journey is not to be missed, even if you aren’t a Harry Potter fan (for whatever reason)!

Category: Dark Ride

Theme: Harry Potter

Location: Islands of Adventure; The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade

Opening Date: April 7, 2016

Height Requirement: 48″ (122 cm)

Duration: 4:06

4. Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment

Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment ranks #4 on our Best Universal Orlando rides list and represents Universal’s most ambitious dark ride to date.
This cutting-edge attraction is located in the Dark Universe section of Universal’s Epic Universe theme park and features the most advanced animatronics Universal has ever created.

The ride follows Dr. Victoria Frankenstein, descendant of the infamous Dr. Henry Frankenstein, as she attempts to control the classic Universal Monsters. However, when Dracula breaks free and leads a monster revolt, guests are thrust into an epic battle for survival.

The Ride

Monsters Unchained follows Victoria Frankenstein as she sets out to continue the work of her ancestors by controlling all of the monsters! During her attempt to show her control, Dracula breaks out and leads a revolt along with the other monsters.

Guests board innovative motion-based ride vehicles that move fluidly through multiple show scenes. Some of the most impressive animatronics Universal has ever built are featured in this ride, including Wolf Man, Creature from the Black Lagoon, Mummy, and more. The ride itself is a lot more fluid than Forbidden Journey, with movements being less jerky than previous motion-simulator attractions.

The figures move faster, strike harder, and feel more alive than any creation before them. You will see them, hear them, and even feel their breath as they close in around you. The attraction features multiple pre-shows that build anticipation before the main experience.

This is Universal’s most technically advanced dark ride, combining practical effects, stunning animatronics, and immersive storytelling to create an unforgettable monster encounter!

Category: Motion-Based Dark Ride

Theme: Universal Classic Monsters

Location: Epic Universe; Dark Universe

Opening Date: May 22, 2025

Height Requirement: 48″ (122 cm)

Duration: ~5 minutes

5. Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts

Harry Potter and the Escape From Gringotts comes in at #5 on our Best Universal Orlando rides list.

The ride is themed around the Gringotts Wizarding Bank and is the flagship attraction of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter section. In our opinion, it is an instant classic!

The Ride

As the highlight of Diagon Alley, “Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts” is inspired by J.K. Rowling’s enchanting novels and the movie franchise. During one of the most intense scenes, guests are taken on a thrilling adventure alongside Harry, Hermione, and Ron.

Visitors board a roller coaster train and descend deep into the vaults of Gringotts Bank, where they will encounter Voldemort, dragons, and other magical creatures. This indoor steel roller coaster resembles a dark ride, employing special effects within a controlled environment.

Using motion-based 3D projections, live-action, and animated sequences, the ride immerses guests in an unforgettable experience. It’s truly one of the most exciting attractions in the park!

Category: Roller Coaster

Theme: Gringotts Bank

Location: Universal Studios; The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley

Opening Date: July 8, 2014

Height Requirement: 42″ (107 cm)

Duration: 5:00

6. Revenge of the Mummy

“Revenge of the Mummy” ranks #6 on our list of the best rides at Universal Resorts and is the top attraction at Universal Studios Florida. This thrilling ride offers a unique blend of an enclosed dark ride featuring impressive special effects and animatronics, along with a launched roller coaster experience. It effectively combines some of the best elements of a theme park attraction into one unforgettable ride.

If you enjoy scary rides, this one is perfect for you!

The Ride

“Revenge of the Mummy” features treasures and warrior mummies that replicate the film props used in “The Mummy” film series, with some props being the actual items from the movies.

The ride utilizes linear induction motors (LIMs) to launch your mine car from a standstill to speeds of up to 45 mph in just a few seconds.

You begin your journey by entering a dark tomb illuminated by fluorescent lights. Suddenly, a mummy springs out and hisses at riders.

From that point on, expect the unexpected as mummies emerge from all directions. The ride takes you through a series of dark rooms before speeding into a dark abyss.

The surround sound and effects elevate this ride to a whole new level of entertainment and excitement.

Category: Steel Launched Coaster / Enclosed Dark Ride

Theme: The Mummy

Location: Universal Studios; New York City

Opening Date: May 21, 2004

Height Requirement: 48″ (122 cm)

Duration: 3:00

7. Stardust Racers

Stardust Racers comes in at #7 on our Best Universal Orlando rides list and serves as the signature roller coaster experience at Universal’s Epic Universe.

This groundbreaking attraction features a unique dual-launch coaster system where two separate tracks race side-by-side through the cosmos. Stardust Racers was manufactured by Mack Rides and includes two 5,000-foot (1,500 m) pairs of track, collectively making it one of the largest steel coasters in the United States.

The coaster is themed around a thrilling race through space, offering riders the chance to compete against friends and family on parallel tracks.

The Ride

Share a race across the cosmos on Stardust Racers, a breathtaking, dual-launch coaster reaching incredible speeds up to 62 mph. Board a comet and rocket to the furthest reaches of the stars, at heights up to 133 feet along 5,000 feet of track. Race along an inverted crisscross, known as the “Celestial Spin.”

The two sides tracks are called Pulsar and Photon. Both are 5,000 feet long, hit a height of 133 feet, and reach a speed of 62 miles per hour. The highlight of the experience is when both tracks intertwine in an incredible inverted crossover section that provides spectacular views and intense racing competition.

Riders experience multiple launches as they rocket through space-themed environments, complete with stunning visual effects and immersive cosmic theming. The competitive element adds an extra layer of excitement as you race to see which track reaches the finish line first!

Category: Dual-Launch Steel Coaster

Theme: Space Racing

Location: Epic Universe; Celestial Park

Opening Date: May 22, 2025

Height Requirement: 48″ (122 cm)

Duration: 2:45

Speed/Vertical: 62 MPH/133 feet

8. The Incredible Hulk Coaster

The Incredible Hulk Coaster ranks #8 on our list of the Best Rides at Universal Orlando. It’s a fast-paced coaster featuring a variety of thrilling twists and turns with an exciting course layout.

The Incredible Hulk Coaster is located at Universal’s Islands of Adventure theme park and is themed after the iconic Marvel Comics superhero, the Hulk.

The Ride

The coaster underwent a major refurbishment from 2015 to 2016, introducing a new storyline and a redesigned queue experience.

At the entrance, guests can see a statue of the Hulk lifting a vehicle over his head. Visitors enter General Thaddeus Ross’s whimsical scientific lab, where televisions display CGI animations of test subjects exposed to gamma radiation, transforming them into Hulk-like creatures.

Once on the ride, you are securely strapped in before launching off on one of the most exhilarating experiences at Universal Orlando Resort. Riders experience seven inversions, with a 0-40 mph acceleration in just two seconds, reaching a top speed of 67 MPH. The ride features several upside-down loops along the course, guaranteed to get your heart racing.

Category: Launched Steel Coaster; Trill Ride

Location: Universal’s Islands of Adventure; Marvel Super Hero Island

Opening Date: May 28, 1999 (as Animation)  August 4, 2016 (as Action)

Height Requirement: 54″ (137 cm)

Duration: 1:15

Speed/Vertical: 67 MPH/115 feet drop

9. The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man

The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man comes in at #9 on our Best Universal Orlando Rides list.

Debuting in 1999, this attraction is a hybrid of a classic dark ride fused with film-style 3-D projected scenes, high-definition 4-D movie aspects, simulations, and other high-tech gadgetry.

The result is an exciting and realistic experience that immerses the rider in the stylized comic book adventures of Spider-Man.

The Ride

After boarding a Daily Bugle van, guests, who are news reporters, will enter the world of Marvel Comics’ legendary character, Spider-Man. The villains of the Sinister Syndicate have captured the Statue of Liberty using an anti-gravity gun, leading to an intense battle.

Will you be able to assist Spider-Man in this classic adventure of good versus evil?

Category: Motion-Based 3D Dark Ride

Theme: Spider-Man

Location: Islands Of Adventure; Marvel Super Hero Island

Opening Date: May 28, 1999

10. Jurassic Park River Adventure

Jurassic Park River Adventure is ranked #10 on our list of the top rides at Universal Studios Orlando. This water-based attraction is inspired by Michael Crichton’s novel and Steven Spielberg’s film Jurassic Park. The ride is designed to resemble Isla Nublar, the fictional Central American island featured in the story.

The Ride

Guests board a floating water vehicle and embark on a journey through a prehistoric landscape where dinosaurs roam freely.

Recent updates to the attraction include new dinosaur species, lush scenery, enhanced storytelling, and advanced technology.

At one point during the ride, Dilophosauruses leap out and spray what appears to be toxic venom at you (but it’s actually just water).

Towards the end of the experience, you’ll ascend a steep hill followed by two exhilarating drops, culminating in an 85-foot plunge into a tropical lagoon situated outside the Environmental Systems Building.

If you want to stay dry, it’s best to avoid this ride at Universal Studios!

Category: Shoot the Chute

Theme: Jurassic Park

Location: Islands of Adventure; Jurassic Park

Opening Date: May 28, 1999

Height Requirement: 42″ (107 cm)

Duration: 7:19

11. Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry

Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry ranks #11 on our Best Universal Orlando rides list and represents the newest addition to Universal’s Potter attraction lineup.

Located in the Ministry of Magic section of Epic Universe’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter, this attraction takes guests deep into the British Ministry of Magic for an immersive adventure alongside Harry Potter himself.

The ride utilizes omnidirectional lift vehicles to transport guests through multiple levels of the Ministry during a thrilling chase sequence.

The Ride

Guests will join Harry Potter, … Umbridge attempts to escape. Guests will engage in a thrilling chase that will propel them up, down, forward, backward, sideways, and more throughout the Ministry as they try to capture Umbridge – all while dodging attacks from Death Eaters and other magical threats.

Each lift is equipped with two rows: a front row with three groups of two seats and an elevated back row consisting of eight seats. The innovative ride system allows for 360-degree movement as guests soar through iconic Ministry locations.

Once aboard the ride, guests will find themselves on a thrilling chase to catch Umbridge as she attempts to escape her trial – all while dodging attacks from the Death Eaters, rampaging creatures and more along the way.

The attraction features extensive queue theming that takes guests through recreated Ministry offices and departments before boarding the magical lifts. This is the most immersive Ministry of Magic experience ever created, perfect for Potter fans seeking their next magical adventure!

Category: Motion-Based Dark Ride

Theme: Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic

Location: Epic Universe; The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic

Opening Date: May 22, 2025

12. MEN IN BLACK Alien Attack

Men in Black: Alien Attack comes in at #12 on our Best Rides at Universal list.

This shooting interactive dark ride, based on the 1997 film Men in Black, is located at Universal Studios Florida.

When it opened in 2000, Men in Black was the largest dark ride ever built at a Universal park. It featured more than 125 animatronic aliens and spanned 70,000 square feet.

The Ride

Guests enter the MIB training facility, which is disguised as a pavilion from the 1964 New York World’s Fair, and make their way through an MIB-themed queue and pre-show.

Riders then board a spinning ride system, dispatch into the darkness, and use laser guns to shoot aliens along the way, accumulating points during the ride.

Despite its age, Men in Black: Alien Attack remains one of our favorite interactive rides at Universal Studios. It’s a lot of fun!

Category: Shooting, Interactive Dark Ride

Theme: Men in Black

Location: Universal Studios; World Expo

Opening Date: April 14, 2000

13. E.T. Adventure

E.T. Adventure ranks #13 on our Best Universal Orlando rides list and holds the distinction of being the last remaining opening-day attraction from Universal Studios Florida.

This beloved family dark ride opened in 1990 and is based on Steven Spielberg’s classic 1982 film “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.” While it may seem dated compared to newer attractions, E.T. Adventure remains a cherished nostalgic experience that continues to delight multiple generations of guests.

The attraction offers a gentler adventure perfect for younger visitors and those seeking a break from high-intensity thrills.

The Ride

Guests begin their journey by receiving an official “interplanetary passport” before boarding a flying bicycle with E.T. seated in the front basket. The adventure starts in a moonlit forest where you must help E.T. escape from government agents who are trying to capture him.

Your bicycle suddenly takes flight, soaring over the city as police chase you through the streets below. Just when capture seems inevitable, you rocket upward through swirling clouds and stars, traveling across the galaxy to E.T.’s dying home planet.

Upon arrival at the Green Planet, guests witness E.T. use his healing powers to revive his alien friends and restore life to his world. The planet transforms from barren and dark to lush and vibrant, culminating in a joyful celebration with dozens of colorful alien creatures.

What makes this ride special is its personal touch – at the end, E.T. actually says goodbye to each guest by name (using information from your “passport”). It’s a magical moment that has created lasting memories for millions of visitors over the decades.

While E.T. Adventure may lack the technological sophistication of newer attractions, its charm lies in its heartwarming storytelling and the genuine emotion it evokes. It’s a perfect choice for families with young children and anyone who appreciates Universal’s classic attraction heritage.

Category: Suspended Dark Ride

Theme: E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial

Location: Universal Studios Florida; Woody Woodpecker’s Kidzone

Opening Date: June 7, 1990

Best Stage Show at Universal

While there are several amazing live shows at Universal Orlando,  we rank the Bourne Stuntacular Show as the best live stage show at the resort. It features a cutting-edge mix of film and stagecraft to create the ultimate stunt show.,

Go along for the ride as Jason Bourne tries to outrun a series of sinister characters.  Watch as he jumps across rooftops in Tangier, dangles from the edge of a helicopter in Dubai, and is speeds through Virginia by motorcycle.  There are shootouts, fistfights, and a sense of ever-present danger.

If you like action, then this live stunt show is not to be missed!

Enjoy your trip to Universal Orlando Resort!

We hope our Best Universal Orlando Rides page helps you prioritize your list of theme park attractions.

If you’re looking for more useful Universal Orlando and Disney World information, then please review some of our other pages on MagicGuides. We have a Complete Universal Vacation Planning Guide, Universal Crowd Calendar, Best Time to Go to Universal, How Much Does It Cost to Go to Universal, Universal Orlando Map, Universal Orlando Statistics, Universal Orlando vs Disney World, Best Epic Universe Rides, Epic Universe for Kids, and Cost of Wands at Universal. They may be just what you’re looking for!

Thanks for reading and we hope you enjoy Universal Orlando Resort!