Universal rides into action! Whether you want to hang out with Harry Potter, take a trip with Jimmy Fallon or get your thrills on a few scream machines, Universal Orlando Resort has rides and attractions to offer all ages.

When Harry Potter flew in on his Nimbus in 2010, it propelled Universal’s Islands of Adventure into a brand new phase. And it has been consistently rated the number 1 theme park in the world ever since. With the addition of Diagon Alley to Universal Studios and a whole range of new attractions to both parks, Universal Orlando Resort has boomed in popularity stakes.

Check out our Universal Rides Guide below. We break it down into 5 sections:

Universal Rides Table of Contents:

Universal Rides with Virtual Queue

There are several rides in Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure that offer a virtual line. The virtual line means you can “virtually” wait in line while enjoying other attractions around the park.

Download the Universal App, select your chosen ride, enter your details, then enjoy the park until your ride time.

If all slots are gone when you try and book a virtual time, try again a little later. The app sometimes releases more time slots.

Universal Studios:

  • Despicable Me
  • Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon
  • Revenge of The Mummy
  • Fast & Furious Supercharged
  • Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
  • Ollivanders Wand Experience

Islands of Adventure:

  • Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
  • Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure – the virtual queue for Hagrid’s isn’t always available, it depends on crowd levels.
  • Ollivanders Wand Experience
  • Skull Island
  • Pteranodon Flyers

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Universal Studios Rides

We’ll work our way around Universal Studios clockwise and list rides and attractions in that order.

Universal Rides Map - Universal Studios

Universal Rides & Attractions in Minion Land

The first area you come to as you enter through the main entrance of Universal Studios Florida is Minion Land. This brand new land was launched in the summer of 2023 and is dedicated to those mischievous minions.

There are two main attractions, a theater and several themed eateries.

Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast

In this first-of-its-kind blaster game attraction, you will be transported to Villain-Con, the biggest criminal convention on the planet – to take part in an epic competition to see if you have what it takes to become the newest member of The Vicious 6. This notorious group of supervillains are from the hit film, “Minions: The Rise of Gru.”

Category: Multi-Person Family
Height: None – hand held infants not permitted, Under 48” (122 cm) require supervision
Express Pass: Yes
Virtual Line: No

Despicable Me Minion Mayhem

Don your 3D Minion goggles and join Gru, Margo, Edith and Agnes on this fun motion simulator packed with minion mischief. It’s your chance to become an actual Minion. You’ll bounce, plunge and plummet through Gru’s house and laboratory.

The line usually moves pretty quickly and the pre-show is comical enough to make the wait seem less.

This is the first attraction you’ll come to when you enter Universal Studios, if the line is low, grab a spot! The lines for Despicable Me Minion Mayhem can get long.

Category: Motion Simulation with 3D/4D
Height: Must be at least 40” (102cm). Children between 40″-48” (102cm-122cm) must be accompanied by a supervising companion.
Express Pass: Yes
Virtual Line: Yes

Universal Rides Despicable Me Minion Mayhem

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Rides & Attractions in New York

Step back decades as you enter New York back in the day. The streets are lined with facades replicating old stores and eateries.

There are three live shows here – Blues Brothers, Marilyn and the Diamond Bellas and Sing It!

Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit

Ready for some real thrills? Then grab your courage by the scruff of the neck and climb aboard the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit.

With your choice of music intermingling with your gasps and cries, you’re taken up 90 degrees vertically. After climbing to a height of 17 stories, you’ll plunge into a 65mph adrenalin rush.

And did we mention Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit has the world’s largest and first-ever non-inverting loop?

This is one of the Universal rides that is not for the squeamish. But it is a scream….. literally.

Fun Fact: You have 30 songs to choose from using the guest interface panel. If you hold down the logo, you’ll reveal a further selection of songs – key in any number to hear hidden songs.
Category: Thrill Coaster
Height: Riders must be between 51” (130cm) and 79” (200cm).
Express Pass: Yes

Race Through New York starring Jimmy Fallon

Racing against Jimmy Fallon himself, you’ll take an action-packed ride through the Big Apple. Dive to the depths of the ocean and shoot to the moon.

You’ll be completely immersed in the world of America’s favorite talk show – “The Tonight Show.”

The pre-show features Hashtag the Panda and a hip-hop barbershop performance by the Ragtime Gals.

Category: Motion Simulator
Height: Must be at least 40″ (102cm). Children between 40″–48″ (102cm-122cm) must be accompanied by a supervising companion.
Express Pass: Yes
Virtual Line: Yes

Universal Rides - Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon

Revenge of The Mummy

In your attempt to flee the evil Mummy Imhotep, this coaster plunges you into pitch-black darkness and even reverse mode.

Even the walk through the tunnel to reach the start of the ride is not for the faint-hearted.

Fun Fact: If by any chance you can read Egyptian hieroglyphics, you’ll see that they are in fact actual warnings.
Category: Coaster
Height: Must be at least 48” (122cm).
Express Pass: Yes
Virtual Line: Yes

Universal Rides - Revenge of the Mummy

Transformers: The Ride – 3D

A motion-based ride that transforms you into NEST recruits to help save the planet. You’ll be joining Optimus Prime, Bumblebee and Sideswipe to protect the Allspark from Megatron and his villainous Decepticons.

Make sure you check out the Transformer meet and greet. It’s just outside the attraction building. The interactions from the transformers can be hilarious to watch.

Super Fans: You might see the famous yellow Volkswagen Beetle that was Bumblebee’s alter ego in the original comic and TV series.
Category: Motion Simulation with 3D/4D
Height: Must be at least 40” (102cm). Children between 40”-48” (102cm- 122cm) must be accompanied by a supervising companion.

Transformers 3D Universal Rides

Universal Rides & Attractions San Francisco

The San Francisco area of Universal Studios Florida has considerably shrunk in size in recent years. Now it’s home to a handful of stores, one attraction and a live show with the Beat Builders.

Plus some great photo ops with the shark from Jaws!

Fast & Furious Supercharged

As you enter the re-creation of the crew’s headquarters, you’ll see lots of props from Fast & Furious movies.

You’ll be able to join up with the Fast crew and feel what it’s like to step into the Fast & Furious films. Soundtracks pump, vehicles flip and rockets fire.

You’ll find bonus content through the Universal Orlando Resort app too.

Category: Motion Simulator
Height: Must be at least 40″ (102cm). Children between 40″–48″ (102cm-122cm) must be accompanied by a supervising companion.
Express Pass: Yes
Virtual Line: Yes


Rides & Attractions in Diagon Alley

This super immersive land starts with the London Embankment. Diagon Alley is hidden from the prying eyes of muggles by a secret walled entrance. There are two rides here, plus live shows including Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees and The Tales of Beedle the Bard. And don’t miss a chat with the Knight Bus.

Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts

This a supremely clever 4D dark roller coaster and one of our absolute favorite Universal Rides.

As you enter the grand marbled lobby of Gringotts Bank, the splendor of the chandeliers is probably the first thing you’ll notice. Then you’ll pass by goblins hard at work. These guys are so life-like, it’s hard to remember they’re animatronics!

An elevator takes you miles underground to the depths of the subterranean vaults beneath Gringotts Bank. You’ll need the help of Harry, Ron and Hermione to escape the wrath of malicious villains Voldemort and Bellatrix.

Wait times can be long, but the line is super fun.

Category: Motion Simulator with 3D/4D
Height: Must be at least 42” (107cm). Children between 42”-48” (107cm-122cm) must be accompanied by a supervising companion.
Express Pass: Yes
Virtual Line: Yes
Universal Rides - Escape from Gringotts

Hogwarts Express – Kings Cross

The Hogwarts Express departs from Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross Station, next to Diagon Alley. It transports passengers to Hogsmeade Station in Islands of Adventure. You’ll need a park-to-park ticket to board.

Don’t Miss: When you reach the top of the stairs, watch passengers in front of you disappear through the wall. Stop and film your family and friends passing through the wall.

Once on board, you’ll travel through the British countryside to reach Hogsmeade. The return trip from Hogsmeade to Kings Cross takes you on a different journey. It’s worth riding both ways.

Category: Train Journey
Height: Under 48″ (121.9cm): Supervising Companion Required
Express Pass: Yes


Rides & Attractions at World Expo

World Expo is the furthest point in Universal Studios Florida and contains just two attractions.

Men In Black: Alien Attack

An interactive rootin’ tootin’ shootin’ ride against alien rascals. Keep your finger on the trigger as you zip through New York aiming at aliens.

Look out for the alien sitting on a bench reading a newspaper – if you manage to shoot it, the newspaper will lower to reveal an alien Steven Spielberg. Hit him too for even more points.

Tip: If it’s not too busy, ask the attendant if it’s possible to take an Immigration Room Tour. It’s not advertised, but might be possible if it’s quiet enough.
Category: Motion Simulation
Height: This ride is for heroes of 48” or 42” with an adult sidekick.
Express Pass: Yes

Fear Factor Live – Permanently Closed
This live stage version of the NBC  tv show is now a vacant lot. We wait for news on what might become of this area.

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Rides & Attractions in Springfield USA

Springfield USA is home to The Simpsons and a great selection of dining options.

The Simpsons Ride

You’ll join Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and Maggie at Krustyland for a day of family fun. But Sideshow Bob is out to sabotage the theme park owned by Krusty the Clown.

As you board your cart to ride the Krustyland Coaster, you just know it’s going to go wrong.

Ride animation is projected onto an 80-foot diameter domed cinema screen to give you maximum effect.

Category: Motion Simulator
Height: Minimum Height 40″ (101.6 cm)
Express Pass: Yes

Simpsons Ride Universal Orlando

Kang & Kudo’s Twirl n Hurl

Kang and Kudo’s, those drooling aliens from The Simpsons, have created this ride where the kiddos get to pilot their own flying saucer.

An aerial carousel hurtles little ones along at a breathtaking 13 miles per hour at the dizzy height of 10 feet.

It’s pretty similar to the Dumbo Ride at Disney’s Magic Kingdom. Nice and gentle.

Category: Kid Friendly
Height: Under 48″ (121.9cm): Supervising Companion Required
Express Pass: Yes


Woody Woodpecker’s KidZone – Under Refurbishment

The Woody Woodpecker’s KidZone closed in January 2023 and is currently under construction. There is no news on what is coming, but Universal have said:

“Universal Orlando Resort will soon begin work on bringing exciting new family entertainment to Universal Studios that will immerse guests in the adventures of beloved animated characters.”

These Attractions Remain Open:

E.T. Adventure

Hop on your flying bicycle to help E.T. save his home planet from dying.

This gentle ride takes you above the city below as you try to avoid capture by authorities. There’s a heartwarming finale that will bring a smile to everyone’s face.

Fun Fact: E.T. composer John Williams wrote the music for the attraction, marking the first time that a ride was given its own original musical score.
Category: Kid Friendly
Height: Must be at least 34” (86cm). Children between 34”-48” (86cm- 122cm) must be accompanied by a supervising companion.
Express Pass: Yes

Animal Actors On Location – Live Show

Check out this live show if you ever wondered how animals make such great actors in movies and shows. You’ll see how these clever creatures are trained in the form of videos and live skits. Plus a good dose of comedy and antics from dogs, cats, birds and critters.

Suitable for all ages.

Rides & Attractions in Hollywood

The streets of Hollywood are adorned with landmarks from Hollywood and ornate buildings and architecture. For some Hollywood nostalgia, this is the place to be. Shows and attractions here include Universal Orlando’s Horror Make-Up Show, Character Party Zone, NBC Media Center and Hollywood Character Zone

Bourne Stuntacular

This stage production uses a fusion of film, storytelling, live actors and extreme effects to bring you a spectacular technologically-advanced stunt show. The huge 130-feet wide and 28-feet tall screen and projection mapping combine with next-level, live-action stunts. You’ll be fully immersed in the world of Jason Bourne as he crosses continents.

Universal Rides Bourne Stuntacular

The show is on several times a day.

Category: Action Show
Restrictions: None

Universal Rides: Islands of Adventure

There’s a reason Islands of Adventure is rated the number one theme park in the world. It’s packed with thrill rides and attractions for all ages.

Universal Rides Map - Islands of Adventure

Here are all the main rides and attractions in Islands of Adventure, going clockwise.

Universal Rides & Attraction in Marvel Super-Hero Island

Comic book fans will love this immersive part of Islands of Adventure. Home to rides, stores and eateries all connected with those Super Hero’s we’ve all grown to love.

Meet the Marvel Super Heroes is located here. You might get to meet Spider-Man, Captain America, Cyclops, Wolverine, Storm and Rogue, or the Green Goblin.

The Incredible Hulk Coaster

As you head towards Marvel Super Hero Island, the green twisting tracks of The Incredible Hulk Coaster loom before you.

Well actually, above you too. And right and left.

Thrill seekers will love this coaster. From zero to 40 mph in 2 seconds. Those follicly challenged should hold onto their hairpiece. You’ll reach speeds of 67 miles per hour as your world turns upside down.

Note: Absolutely zero in pockets. No phones, wallets, coins or cameras. There are detectors you need to go through, so pack your stuff away in the lockers. Double check your pockets and save yourself the time of being turned back to the lockers.
Category: Thrill Coaster
Height: Must be at least 54″ for this one.
Express Pass: Yes

Hulk Coaster

Storm Force Accelatron

Storm Force Accelatron is a classic spinning ride that shouldn’t be attempted shortly after eating too much. Storm uses her powers to create thunder and lightning to blast evil Magneto into oblivion.

Riders need to spin the wheel as fast as they can to help Storm win the battle.

As this ride is tucked away to the side of The Hulk, it’s very easy to miss and often has very little in the way of wait lines.

Category: Kid Friendly
Height: Under 48″ (121.9cm): Supervising Companion Required
Express Pass: Yes

Universal Rides - Storm Force Accelatron

Doctor Doom’s FearFall

Evil Doctor Victor Von Doom will suck the fear out of you and use it as a weapon to defeat the Fantastic Four. To create your fear, you’ll rocket 185 feet in the air, before plunging back down to earth.

The initial launch uses more thrust than a 747 jet and accelerates faster than a space shuttle. And you get great views of Islands of Adventure from the top!

Fun Fact: Look carefully at the pavement around Doctor Doom’s FearFall. You’ll see outlines of bodies and impact points of poor souls who have fallen victim to Doctor Doom.
Recommended for the adventurous over 52”.
Category: Thrill
Height: Must be at least 52” (132cm)
Express Pass: Yes

Doctor Dooms Fear Fall

The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man

Your Spidey senses will tingle as you put on your 3D glasses. The villains are up to antics and you are caught right in the middle of it all.

As a budding reporter, you’ll board the Daily Bugle’s “Scoop” vehicle and follow along as Spiderman battles his most notorious nemeses. Prepare for the 400-foot free-fall drop at the end.

Category: Motion Simulator 3D/4D
Height: Must be at least 40” (102cm). Children between 40”-48” (102cm-122cm) must be accompanied by a supervising companion.
Express Pass: Yes

Amazing Adventures of SpiderMan


Universal Rides in Toon Lagoon

Toon Lagoon brings comic book cartoon art to life. The title of this land might give you a hint. It’s a wet area with water rides and splash pads. Characters you might see here include Betty Boop, Popeye the Sailor Man and his sweetheart, Olive Oyl.

Me Ship, The Olive is an interactive play area for kids to burn off some excess energy. There’s also Sweet Pea’s Playpen for the little ones. Take some time to stroll the walkways around Me Ship, The Olive. They offer some peace and quiet away from the crowds and some great views of other areas of the park.

Dudley Do Right’s Ripsaw Falls

There’s a full description of this ride below, under ‘Water Rides’. But here’s a brief recap:
Dudley Do Right’s Ripsaw Falls log-flume ride with a 75-foot splash drop at the end.

Category: Water ride
Height: Must be at least 44” (112cm). Children between 44”-48” (112cm- 122cm) must be accompanied by a supervising companion.
Express Pass: Yes

Universal Rides - Dudly Do Right's Rip Saw Falls at Islands of Adventure

Popeye and Bluto’s Bilgerat Barges

Raging rapids and spectacular splashes make up this ride. See below under Universal water rides for a full description.

Category: Water ride
Height: Must be at least 42” (107cm). Children between 42”-48” (107cm- 122cm) must be accompanied by a supervising companion.
Express Pass: Yes

Universal Rides - Popeye and Blutos Bilge Rat Barges


Skull Island

There’s only one attraction in Skull Island.

Skull Island – Reign of King Kong

As you enter Skull Island, you’ll weave through corridors and caverns. A shaman woman addresses the audience in gibberish and boxes harboring unknown creatures making scurrying noises. You might even encounter natives along the way.

You’ll join a 1930s expedition to journey through Skull Island: Reign of King Kong. A battle of the beasts will have you jumping out of your seat. Your vehicle will be attacked by prehistoric predators as King Kong arrives to kick some colossal ape ass and reign as king.

Viewing Tip: You get a much better view and all-round experience if you sit in the back half of the vehicle. If you are directed into the first half, ask to hang back for the next vehicle and request seating towards the rear. There are things happening on both sides of the vehicle, so make sure you look left and right.
Category: Motion Ride with 360 3D and animatronics
Height: Must be at least 36″ (91cm). Children between 36″–48″ (91cm-122cm) must be accompanied by a supervising companion.
Express Pass: Yes
Virtual Line: Yes

Universal Rides - Skull Island

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Jurassic Park

Jurassic Park is home to a few Universal rides, several dining options and other attractions including Camp Jurassic, Jurassic Park Discovery Center and the Raptor Encounter.

Pteranodon Flyers

This prehistoric flying reptile, suspended from a wire, gently soars over the surrounding area of Jurassic Park. This is where kids get their own back. Any rider over 56” in height must be accompanied by a child over 36”.

Anyone got a spare kid we can borrow?

Category: Kid Friendly
Height: Designed for children 36”-56” (91cm-142cm). A child meeting this requirement must accompany guests over 56” (142cm) tall. Children between 36”-56” (91cm-142cm) must be accompanied by a supervising companion.
Virtual Line: Yes

Pternodon Flyers

Jurassic Park River Adventure

See ‘Water Rides’ below for a full description. In brief, this scenic boat trip takes an ominous turn for the worse bringing you face to face with razor teeth.

Category: Water Ride
Height: Must be at least 42” (107cm). Children between 42”-48” (107cm-122cm) must be accompanied by a supervising companion.
Express Pass: Yes

Universal Rides - Jurassic Park River Adventure at Island of Adventure

Jurassic World VelociCoaster

This extreme coaster is the ultimate experience for coaster enthusiasts and thrill-seekers.

With over 4,700 feet of track taking you to heights of up to 155 feet, the coaster’s signature maneuvers will have you twisting and soaring, barrel-rolling above water and speeding through near-misses and launches within the paddock.

  • Accelerate through two pulse-pounding launches, the fastest reaching 70 mph in 2.4 seconds
  • Encounter a one-of-a-kind, 360-degree barrel roll right above the Islands of Adventure lagoon
  • Experience a zero-gravity inverted stall that will send riders upside down across 100 feet of track in a jaw-dropping maneuver that is the first of its kind
  • Go airborne during the towering “Top Hat,” which propels riders 155 feet in the air and then immediately into an 80-degree drop – Universal’s steepest drop yet
  • Brace for a total of 12 heart-pounding seconds of airtime – the thrilling sensation of weightlessness riders feel when they’re lifted from their seats – throughout the entire adventure

There are free lockers located toward the end of the queue for cameras, phones and other small items. Larger lockers are available for a fee at Jurassic Park Discovery Center.

Category: Thrill Coaster
Height: Must be at least 51” (129cm)
Express Pass: Yes
Single Rider Line: Yes – Intermittently
Virtual Line: Currently no, but check the Universal app for up-to-date changes.

Universal Rides & Attractions in Hogsmeade Village

There are three Universal rides in Hogsmeade Village, plus the Hogwarts Express. Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure is the newest Harry Potter attraction. It replaced Dragon Challenge, which closed September 2017.

The Forbidden Journey

Probably our favorite of all Universal rides! The wait in line is almost as good as the ride. You’ll wander along familiar passageways through the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. You’ll pass by Dumbledore’s office, the Defence Against the Dark Arts classroom, Gryffindor common room and the Room of Requirement.

After a flurry of Floo Powder, you’ll join Harry as he takes you on a soaring trip high above Hogwarts and the castle grounds. You’ll be chased by Hagrid’s pet Hungarian Horntail dragon, while the Whomping Willow and a hoard of dementors try to spoil the trip.

Enjoyment Tip: The storyline for the ride is explained in pre-scenes during the line. Often the line moves too quickly. Stop to listen in Dumbledore’s Chamber and stop again to listen to Harry, Ron and Hermoine in Defence Against the Dark Arts classroom. Stand aside from the line to let other people pass so you can take your time.
Don’t Miss Out: If you don’t want to ride The Forbidden Journey, we recommend you still join the line to tour the castle. You can exit just before the boarding area.
Category: Motion Simulator with 3D/4D
Height: Muggles must be 48” (122cm).
Express Pass: Yes
There is a single rider line, but you miss out on a lot of the Castle tour.
Virtual Line: Yes

Universal Rides - Harry Potter Forbidden Journey

Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure

Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure takes you beyond the grounds of Hogwarts Castle, into the Forbidden Forest.

While dodging beasts, you’ll also encounter some of the wizarding world’s rarest magical creatures.

Category: Thrill Coaster
Height: Must be at least 48” (91cm).
Express Pass: No
Virtual Line: Yes
Single Rider Line: Yes

Universal Rides - Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure

Flight of the Hippogriff

You’ll get a quick lesson on how humans should approach a Hippogriff from Hagrid. Once you’re familiar with the correct etiquette to avoid any dangerous encounters, you’ll hop on board the family-friendly Flight of the Hippogriff.

Category: Kid-Friendly Coaster
Height: Must be at least 36” (91cm). Children between 36”-48” (91cm-122cm) must be accompanied by a supervising companion.
Express Pass: Yes

Flight of The Hippogriff

Hogwarts Express – Hogsmeade Station

The Hogwarts Express from Hogsmeade Village will transport passengers to Kings Cross and Diagon Alley. It’s a different journey each way.

You’ll need a 2-Park Pass to use the Hogwarts Express and visit both Harry Potter worlds.

Category: Train Journey
Height: Under 48″ (121.9cm): Supervising Companion Required
Express Pass: Yes

Hogwarts Express

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Seuss Landing – Universal Rides for Kids

Rides for kiddos are plenty at Seuss Landing. It’s also so visually stunning, adults will be charmed. Look around carefully and take some time to explore a little. Dr. Seuss wrote and illustrated 45 fanciful children’s books. As you travel through Seuss Landing, you’ll see creatures from many of his stories.

In keeping with the Seuss stories, you won’t spot straight lines or 90 degree angles anywhere.

High in The Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride

The High in The Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride trundles slowly along its’ track above Seuss Landing and attractions below. It’s a relaxing sit down for Moms and Dads and gives a Birdseye view of the area.

There are two different tracks. The Beech track is to your left and the Star track is to your right.

Category: Kid Friendly
Height: Must be at least 36in” (91cm). Children between 36”-48” (91cm-122cm) must be accompanied by a supervising companion.
Express Pass: Yes

High in The Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride

Caro-Seuss-El

Even tiny tots can enjoy this ride, it’s a traditional merry-go-round with the addition of Dr Seuss Characters.

All characters have moving parts the rider controls. The kiddos will be able to make eyes blink, ears wiggle and heads turn. Some of the creatures you can ride include elephant birds from Horton Hatches the Egg and cowfish from McElligot’s Pool.

Category: Kid Friendly
Height: No height restrictions, but those under 48” must be accompanied by an adult.
Express Pass: Yes

Universal Rides Caro-Seuss-El

One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish

This is Universal’s answer to Dumbo at Disney. Board your very own flying fish for a gentle, up-and-down ride. Riders can control when they go up and down

And, err, you might get wet. Listen to the song for instructions, or face the wet consequences.

Category: Kid Friendly
Height: No height restrictions, but under 48″ must be accompanied by an adult.
Express Pass: Yes

One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish

Cat in The Hat

This is a gentle journey through the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss’s best-loved children’s book. Sit back in your couch car and wait for bumps, thumps and things going “crash.”

Category: Kid Friendly
Height: Must be at least 36″ (91cm). Children between 36″–48″ (91cm-122cm) must be accompanied by a supervising companion.
Express Pass: Yes

Cat in The Hat

Universal Water Rides

Although all these Universal rides have already been mentioned above, we figured a section on water rides might help.

There are 3 Universal rides where you may get wet…. Nah, who are we kidding? You’ll get soaked! It’s a great way to cool down though and you’ll soon dry off if it’s a sunny day. A poncho and a change of clothes will go down a treat.

All these water rides are in Islands of Adventure

Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls

This log flume is part coaster and part water ride. And you’re in for a ton of fun and a jolly good soaking. As you slosh along, look out for jokes and puns along the way. Dudley Do-Right has to rescue Nell Fenwick who has been kidnapped once again by Snidely Whiplash. There’s a 75-foot cascading drop at the end.

Tip: If you manage to avoid most splashes, make sure you look out for water cannons at the end of the ride. These things can really get you drenched.
Category: Water ride
Height: Must be at least 44” (112cm). Children between 44”-48” (112cm- 122cm) must be accompanied by a supervising companion.
Express Pass: Yes

Dudly Do Right's Rip Saw Falls

Popeye and Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges

This is a whitewater-raft ride and there’s no escaping a soaking. You’ll have to brave the gushing river rapids and waterfalls as you battle to save Olive Oil from Bluto.

You’ll have an 18-foot octopus and a lot of water to look out for. And pesky humans with water cannons taking aim from above. Watch out for them when you pass Me Ship, The Olive. These landlubbers love blasting unsuspecting raft riders.”

Stay Dry Tip: Your feet will definitely get wet during this ride. Hoist up those britches and go barefoot or wear flip-flops. There’s no fun in trudging around in soggy sneakers for the rest of the day. There’s a covered console in the middle of each raft where you can store electronics and footwear.
Category: Water ride
Height: Must be at least 42” (107cm). Children between 42”-48” (107cm- 122cm) must be accompanied by a supervising companion.
Express Pass: Yes

Popeys and Blutos Bilge Rat Barges

Jurassic Park River Adventure

You’ll board a tour boat to take a scenic aquatic tour through the grounds of Jurassic Park.
But your pleasure journey soon turns to chaos as you take a sinister wrong turn.
You’ll need to plunge down an 85-foot drop to escape the jaws of a T-Rex.

You won’t get soaked on this ride, but you might get splashed as you plunge down the drop. A poncho will help.

Fun Fact: When this Islands of Adventure ride first launched, the 85-foot plunge was the largest theme park water descent ever constructed.
Category: Water Ride
Height: Must be at least 42” (107cm). Children between 42”-48” (107cm-122cm) must be accompanied by a supervising companion.
Express Pass: Yes

Jurassic Park River Adventure

Don’t worry about getting too wet – either take a change of clothes or use one of the large People Dryers close to the wet rides:

People Dryer Universal Orlando

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Universal Ride Lockers

Some Universal rides do not allow you to carry bags, cameras, phones, or have items in pockets. It’s a safety issue for you and fellow passengers.

Smaller Complimentary Lockers:

There are small complimentary lockers located by all the rides that enforce the no-carry requirement. You can store smaller items like phones, cameras, purses and wallets.

The lockers are linked to current wait times of the attraction and add a little extra time on top, so you don’t need to rush. You will be able to store your items at no cost for the duration of your wait time and completing your ride.

The time you will have complimentary use of the locker will be displayed on the screen. You must retrieve your items within this window, or you’ll be charged.

$2 Larger Lockers

If you have a larger bag or item to store, you won’t have any option but to pay the $2 locker fee. The timing works the same as above: Times linked to ride wait times with additional time.

For both locker sizes, you will be charged $3 for each half-hour you go over the complimentary time. It can work out to be a big chunk of change if you mess up, so watch those times! The maximum fee charged is $20.

But don’t worry if there is a delay on the ride or if wait times are longer than posted. Locker times are synced with the rides and will automatically update to correspond with any delays.

Universal Studios Rides With Locker Enforcement:

  • Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit – ALL loose articles (you’ll pass through a metal detector)
  • Revenge of the Mummy – Anything that interferes with safety restraints
  • Men in Black: Alien Attack – Anything that interferes with safety restraints
  • Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts – Anything that interferes with safety restraints

Islands of Adventure Rides with Locker Enforcement:

  • The Incredible Hulk Coaster – ALL loose articles (you’ll pass through a metal detector)
  • Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey – Anything that interferes with safety restraints
  • Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure – Anything that interferes with safety restraints

Universal Rides Tips:

Go Solo:

If you don’t mind splitting up, Single Riders can make a big difference to the wait time. Single Ride lines are usually available at the following attractions but are subject to change depending on crowd levels.

If you don’t see a single rider line at an attraction, always ask the attendant. Some are not well-posted.

Universal Studios:

  • Despicable Me
  • Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
  • Revenge of the Mummy
  • Fast & Furious
  • Transformers: The Ride 3-D
  • Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
  • Men in Black Alien Attack

Islands of Adventure:

  • Incredible Hulk (Express Lane – tell the attendant you want the single rider line)
  • Dr. Doom’s Fearfall
  • The Amazing Adventure of Spider-Man
  • Jurassic Park River Adventure
  • Skull Island: Reign of Kong
  • Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
  • Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure

Consider an Express Pass

If you are visiting during a really busy period, it would be well worth considering an Express Pass. Unless you are visiting at the peak times like Christmas, Thanksgiving and Easter, or busy Holiday weekends, wait until you are inside the park to check the wait times.

Express Passes are available throughout the parks at many locations. Prices fluctuate depending on demand.

There are two types available: Express Pass and Express Pass Unlimited.

See full details here: Universal Express Pass

Universal Express Pass

Child Swap

If you are with children too young to go on a particular ride, or they just don’t want to, make use of the Child Swap option. It means you can ride while your other half waits with the children in a designated area. You then swap places without having to wait in line all over again. As an added bonus, the Child Swap areas are usually indoors with nice cool air conditioning.

Universal Orlando Rides with Virtual Line

There are currently 5 rides at Universal Orlando that offer a virtual line.

Universal Studios:

  • Despicable Me
  • Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon
  • Revenge of The Mummy
  • Fast & Furious Supercharged
  • Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
  • Ollivanders Wand Experience

Islands of Adventure:

  • Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
  • Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure – the virtual queue for Hagrid’s isn’t always available, it depends on crowd levels.
  • Ollivanders Wand Experience
  • Skull Island
  • Pteranodon Flyers

We hope our guide to Universal Rides is helpful. Hop On and Enjoy!


Orlando Accommodation

If you are visiting to experience the amazing Universal Rides, we’d love to welcome you to one of our cozy Orlando Vacation Homes located just 25 minutes from Universal Orland. An awesome alternative to hotels for comfort, space and privacy!

Sleepy Hollow 3 Bedroom Home

Sleepy Hollow

3 Bedroom Resort Home ~ From $210 a night ~ Sleeps 7

Serendipity 5 Bedroom Home

Serendipity

5 Bedroom Pool Home ~ From $300 a night ~ Sleeps 12

Breezy Oak Villas

4 Bedroom Pool Homes
From $225
Sleep 8