In this part, we’re gonna talk about my favorite rides at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. If you haven’t read the first part about accommodation and parking, go check it out.
Starting with Universal Studios, I absolutely love the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Diagon Alley. The Hogwarts Express from King’s Cross Station, taking you through the British countryside, is a fantastic experience. But my favorite ride has to be Escape from Gringotts. It’s an exhilarating high-speed chase through the underground vaults of Gringotts Bank.
If you’re a fan of roller coasters, you can’t miss Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit. Standing at 167 feet tall and reaching speeds of 65 miles per hour, it’s a must-try. What makes it even more fun is that you can choose your own music to accompany the ride.
Another great ride is Revenge of the Mummy. I won’t spoil it for you, but even though I know what to expect, it still gives me nervous excitement. However, the one ride that doesn’t agree with me is The Simpsons Ride. Unfortunately, I threw up on it when it came to a sudden stop. Oops!
There are plenty of other rides I love at Universal Studios, but let’s hop on the Hogwarts Express from Platform 9 3/4 and head over to Islands of Adventure.
First up is The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man, a thrilling motion-based ride through the streets of New York City that includes a simulated free fall from the top of a 400-foot building.
Now, let’s talk about The Incredible Hulk Coaster. This ride is one of the most intense at the park, with speeds reaching up to 67 miles per hour and seven inversions.
I was also very impressed with Skull Island: Reign of Kong. It features state-of-the-art effects and a safari vehicle that transports you right into the heart of the action.
But I’ve saved the best for last… the Jurassic World VelociCoaster. This ride left me in awe. With a drop from a height of 140 feet and speeds of up to 70 miles per hour, it’s an adrenaline-pumping experience. And to top it off, you’re accelerated from 0 to 50 miles per hour in just 2 seconds. As a lover of roller coasters, this one did not disappoint. However, my husband didn’t share the same enthusiasm. His face was priceless when we got off the ride. He needed a few moments to compose himself and a quick restroom visit was in order.
For me, it’s not just about the rides; it’s the entire atmosphere of the parks. It’s fun, bright, inviting, friendly, clean, and incredibly entertaining. And of course, there are amazing photo opportunities with your favorite characters.
Don’t forget to download the official Universal Orlando App for a more convenient experience.
I would return to Universal Orlando again and again. I also had a fantastic time attending the Halloween Horror Nights. “Scream together or you won’t last long” is their motto. With 10 terrifying haunted houses, it’s a scream-inducing experience. I had to convince my husband to join me that evening, even though he’s not a fan of roller coasters or horror. Oops! I may have fibbed a bit and told him some of the houses were rides. But he quickly realized the truth when someone jumped out at him with an axe. It was like being in a horror movie set (definitely not for the faint-hearted).
I might even consider going for Christmas because the kid inside me never wants to grow up.
Remember, life is like a roller coaster. It has its ups and downs, but it’s your choice whether to scream or enjoy the ride.