We’re all thinking it, so we’ll just say it. As some point, your children will think they’re “too cool” for Walt Disney World or Disneyland — and they’re going to want to experience more thrills, more adrenaline, and more heart-pumping. This is when it’s time to graduate from Disney to a Universal Orlando family vacation. But what are they best rides at Universal Orlando Resort?

We’ve got our take on the best and most thrilling rides that are sure to leave your family going, “Whoa!” for the entire duration of their Universal vacation.

Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure

Located in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort, this relatively new attraction is already a fan favorite. Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure is a roller coaster any Harry Potter fan who passes the height requirement can enjoy.

The ride takes guests on a journey through the Forbidden Forest, and they get to encounter various magical creatures along the way.

It uses a motorbike and sidecar design to simulate the sensation of riding on Hagrid’s Motorbike made famous in both the novels and films. Riders can choose to sit on either the motorbike or sidecar, each providing a different experience.

To fully experience the ride, we recommended trying both the motorbike and sidecar to see the differences. Just keep in mind that the ride has a height requirement of 48 inches, and that taller riders might not be able to ride the side car.

During the ride, guests will meet creatures such as Blast-Ended Skrewts, Cornish Pixies and Fluffy, the three-headed dog, too. There are also various special effects, including animatronics and projections, that bring the experience to life.

The ride has a duration of around three minutes and 25 seconds. It reaches a maximum speed of 50 miles per hour. It also has a total track length of 5,053 feet and a maximum height of 65 feet.

Overall, Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure is a must-ride for any Harry Potter fan. While in the Wizarding World, make sure you’ve tried the art of spell casting with an interactive wand. Never done it before? Check out How to Use Interactive Wands.

Consider the Velocicoaster

Velocicoaster is a high-speed roller coaster primarily for thrill seekers. It’s located in the Jurassic Park area of Islands of Adventure at Universal Orlando Resort. This ride takes guests through the park’s fictional Velociraptor paddock.

It has a lap bar restraint system that allows for a more open, unobstructed ride that can be — quite delightfully frightening! Riders also experience several high-speed launches, inversions (going upside down), and airtime moments throughout the journey.

To make the most of the ride, sit in the front row for the best views. The ride does have a height requirement of 51 inches and a strict policy banning loose belongings or clothing. (You will have to store loose articles in lockers provided at no extra cost toward the front of the ride’s entrance.)

During the ride, guests will reach a top speed of 70 miles per hour and experience a total of four inversions. The coaster track is 4,700 feet long, making it one of the longest coaster tracks in all of Florida. Though the youngest children won’t get to enjoy this one, it’s well worth it for the tweens, teens, and adults to check out.

The Revenge of the Mummy

Ever see memes with Brendan Frasier screaming, “I want my cup of coffee”? That was made famous, thanks to the end show credits of this ride — The Revenge of the Mummy.

The Revenge of the Mummy will take you and your family through an ancient Egyptian tomb from the blockbuster world of the movie — The Mummy. This is a hybrid ride that combines spooky/horror elements that will send some chills up your spine in the best kind of way. 

What makes this ride unique is that it combines the thrill of a roller coaster and with the suspense of a dark ride. The ride has several indoor sections where riders are transported through scenes that utilize special effects, projections, animatronics — and yes, even fire! (Like the entire ceiling catching on fire toward the end. It gets us every time!)

There will be several moments of high-speed coaster action, including a launch and multiple drops. The ride also has several special effects, including a “swarm” of scarab beetles that guests must navigate through.

If you have younger children who are easily frightened, they might want to sit this one out. Still, this is one of the top attractions in Universal Studios Orlando. Perhaps that’s why Universal shuttered the ride down and completely refurbished all its elements in 2022 before reopening later that August.

Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts

Are you and your family die-hard Harry Potter fans? If Hagrid’s roller coaster wasn’t enough for you, consider this unique and classic attraction as one of the best experiences The Wizarding World of Harry Potter has to offer its guests.

Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts is a 3D motion-based dark ride. You’ll find it in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida.

The ride is an adventurous and tumultuous journey through the inner bowels of Gringotts Bank where you’ll meet all your favorite heroes, villains, and wizardly creatures from the Harry Potter series along the way.

Some of the coolest features include a combination of 3D projection technology, practical sets, and motion-based vehicles. The ride also features several high-speed moments and a heart-pounding drop to start.

The top fans will love getting to meet Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, and Hermione Granger. There are also encounters with creatures such as goblins and a fire-breathing dragon. The ride features several special effects, including fog, strobe lights, water sprays, and heat simulators.

The ride lasts around four minutes and 30 seconds, so make sure you soak up every moment. While you’re in Diagon Alley, don’t forget to find all the hidden easter eggs from the films!

The Amazing Adventures of Spiderman

Perhaps your family prefers Marvel over Harry Potter. If so, The Amazing Adventures of Spiderman is likely ideal for you.

It’s another 3D dark ride, and it’s in the Marvel Super Hero Island section of Islands of Adventure. It’ll take you on a mission to stop the evil Sinister Syndicate from stealing a powerful weapon. If your kids love superheroes, this is the best way for them to experience what it’s actually like to be one. 

They’ll get to go on their own high-speed chase through the streets of New York City. Let them be the hero in a battle against the Sinister Syndicate. The ride’s innovative technology and thrilling storyline make it a standout attraction at Islands of Adventure and continues to be our personal favorite.

(Yes, there’s more fire! But even better — see how many times you can spot Stan Lee during the ride. We counted 7 last I checked.)

E.T. Adventure

Though this is an older movie that the adults in your family might appreciate more, everyone can still fully enjoy this ride based on E.T. You get to take part in helping him get back to his home planet during this exciting experience.

You’ll get to enjoy its classic feel and nostalgic charm. The ride features practical sets and animatronics, as well as a heartwarming storyline straight from the movie.

The height restriction is only 34 inches, too — which is a huge bonus if your family has some younger kiddos. Plus, the fastest this charming ride will go is a maximum of five miles per hour. This is the ride that every generation can participate in — no matter if their five of ninety-five.

Take note of the ride’s special effects, including flying bikes and a star field. (The effects and feel are very much reminiscent of Peter Pan at Disneyland and Walt Disney World.) The ride also features a touching finale that will leave guests feeling uplifted — and maybe you’ll even hear E.T. say your name.

Overall, E.T. Adventure is a classic ride that has been a staple of Universal Studios Florida since its opening in 1990. Yep, it’s one of the originals. Don’t be afraid to ride this one more than once!

Comparing the Best Rides at Universal Orlando

When comparing these amazing rides, there are many factors to consider. Overall, personal preferences and physical limitations are going to be your biggest determinants.

In terms of thrill level, Hagrid’s and the Velocicoaster are the most intense. They’re the ones with high-speed launches, inversions, and steep drops. The Mummy, Escape from Gringotts, and Spiderman offer moderate thrills, while E.T. Adventure is a gentle ride suitable for guest of all ages and thrill levels.

When considering accessibility, all six rides are wheelchair accessible. They also have assistive listening devices available. However, Hagrid’s and Velocicoaster have more stringent rider requirements and may not be suitable for all guests.

Wait times can vary greatly depending on the time of day and season. Hagrid’s and Velocicoaster typically have the longest wait times and we recommend hitting them right at park opening or closing. E.T. Adventure, though, usually has the shortest. To cut down any wait time considerably, we recommend getting Express Pass as an add-on to your admission ticket. (We’ve got the best tips on how to maximize it and even how to get it at no cost.)

Guests who enjoy high-speed thrills may prefer Hagrid’s and Velocicoaster. Those who appreciate storytelling and practical effects may enjoy The Mummy, Escape from Gringotts, and Spiderman. E.T. Adventure is a classic ride that appeals to a wide range of guests, regardless of their thrill preferences.

Making the Most Out of Your Upcoming Universal Trip

A family trip to Universal Orlando can be a dream vacation. Still, it requires careful planning to ensure everything goes smoothly — especially when you consider how many components are involved.

First, decide which attractions your family wants to experience the most and plan your itinerary accordingly. Use Universal’s official app or website to check wait times and plan your route.

Consider staying on-site at one of Universal’s hotels, too. This is ideal for added convenience and perks like early park access and transportation. Premier resort guests also get Express Pass included with their vacation package.

Also, hire experts to handle your vacation planning for you. An expert planner can help you with everything from booking your hotel and tickets, monitoring your package for additional discounts, offering reduced wait strategies, to creating a custom, daily itinerary.

Having an expert handle your vacation planning can also save you time and stress. This leaves you more time to enjoy the parks with your family. Only work with the best Universal Studios vacation planning professionals, though.

Hiring Experts to Plan Your Trip

At this point, you have a better idea of the best rides at Universal Orlando. You and your family deserve to make the most of your adventures on this vacation. That’s where we can help. 

Don’t leave your trip’s itinerary up to chance. Leave it to us to ensure you get exactly where you need to be and when to have the most positive experience at the park. Learn more here about what we can do to ensure this.