Roller coasters are one of the most popular attractions at Universal Studios. And it’s no wonder why – they’re fast, thrilling, and full of twists and turns. But what makes Universal Studios’ roller coasters some of the best in the world?
First, there’s the sheer variety on offer. From the unassuming yet exhilarating Incredible Hulk Coaster to the spine-tingling Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, there’s a roller coaster to suit every taste. Second, Universal Studios constantly innovates, ensuring its rides are always at the cutting edge of coaster technology. Finally, the park is home to some of the most iconic coasters in history.
We have compiled a list of nine of the best roller coasters at Universal Studios.Read along, and let us be your guide!
Jurassic World VelociCoaster
Starting the list at the top has to be VelociCoaster. Riding the VelociCoaster at Jurassic World is an unforgettable experience.
The coaster manufactured by Intamin was commissioned in 2021 and is based on the movie Jurassic Park. It is 4,700 feet long and reaches a top height of 155 feet. The ride lasts approximately 2 minutes and 20 seconds.
The coaster features several twists and turns and two launches that propel riders up to 70 miles per hour.
The first launch takes place inside the VelociCoaster tunnel, while the second launch occurs after riders have climbed the coaster’s tallest hill. There are also several sections where the track is entirely inverted, providing an added thrill for riders.
Overall, the VelociCoaster is an exhilarating ride that is sure to please any thrill seeker. However, if you’re looking for a genuinely unique amusement park experience, be sure to check out the VelociCoaster at Jurassic World!
Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
At the second spot is Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. As any Potterhead knows, Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure is one of the latest attractions at Universal Orlando’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
The ride, which opened in June 2019, takes guests on a thrilling journey through the Forbidden Forest, home to some of the most dangerous creatures in the Wizarding World. But don’t worry, you’ll be safe on Hagrid’s magical motorbike.
The ride was manufactured by Vekoma and is more than 5,000 feet long with a height of nearly 65 feet. It features seven launch points and reaches speeds of up to 50 miles per hour. The ride lasts approximately three minutes, but it feels much longer as you zip through the forest, dodging trees, rocks, and creatures.
So, if you’re looking for a thrill ride that’s sure to leave you spellbound, be sure to check out Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure at Universal Orlando’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Incredible Hulk Coaster
Next on the list is Incredible Hulk Coaster. The Incredible Hulk Coaster is one of the most popular rides at Universal Studios Florida.
The coaster was manufactured by Bolliger & Mabillard in 1999. It is 3,700 feet long with a top height of 112 feet. The ride lasts approximately 2 minutes and 30 seconds. The coaster features seven inversions, including a zero-gravity roll and a top speed of 67 miles per hour.
The first launch is inside the station, where riders are accelerated from 0 to 40 miles per hour in two seconds. After that, it’s non-stop action as the coaster winds its way through the park, providing an exhilarating experience for riders of all ages.
This coaster underwent extensive refurbishment in 2015, during which most of its track was replaced. The new track is made of steel, making it smoother and faster than ever. The downside to the Incredible Hulk Coaster is that it has a reputation for being rough. Another downside is its slow launch, which can be disappointing for thrill seekers.
But overall, the Incredible Hulk Coaster is a great ride that provides an adrenaline-pumping experience for all who ride it.
Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
Manufactured by Maurer Sohne, Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit is one of the most popular rides at Universal Studios Florida, featuring steel rollers. The ride opened in 2009, and it is 3,800 feet long. It has a top speed of 65 miles per hour and lasts approximately 2 minutes and 15 seconds.
Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit is unique because riders can choose the music to listen to while on the ride. There are more than 30 songs to choose from, spanning various genres. Riders can create their custom mix of songs to listen to as they enjoy the ride.
The Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit is one of the smoothest rides at Universal Studios Florida. It’s also one of the most popular, so expect long lines during peak times.
Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit is worth checking out if you’re looking for a thrilling ride that’s sure to get your adrenaline pumping.
Revenge of the Mummy
Revenge of the Mummy is a steel roller coaster manufactured by Premier Rides. It opened in 2004 and is 2,200 feet long with a top speed of 45 miles per hour. The ride lasts for approximately 2 minutes and 30 seconds.
Revenge of the Mummy is unique in that it is an indoor/outdoor coaster, meaning that part of the ride takes place inside a dark building while the other part takes place outside.
The indoor section of the ride features special effects such as fire, smoke, and water. In this section, riders will experience a zero-gravity roll while getting their hearts pumped by the special effects. The outdoor section of Revenge of the Mummy is one of the most intense roller coaster experiences you can have.
You’re barreling full speed ahead into the dark as soon as you leave the station. The first drop is a doozy, and it only gets wilder from there.
The twists and turns are relentless, and there are a few surprises along the way that will get your heart racing. By the time you reach the final stretch, you’ll be glad it’s over, but you’ll also be itching to ride it again. It’s genuinely an adrenaline-pumping thrill ride from start to finish.
Harry Potter and the Escape From Gringotts
Coming in at sixth position is Harry Potter and the Escape From Gringotts. It is a steel roller coaster manufactured by B&M. It opened in 2014 and is 1,969 feet long with a top speed of 60 miles per hour. The ride lasts for approximately 2 minutes and 45 seconds.
Harry Potter and the Escape From Gringotts is unique because it is a virtual reality coaster. The ride is truly incredible – it’s fast, thrilling, and full of surprises. But what makes it unique is the attention to detail. Every ride element, from the intricate sets to the animatronics, is designed to create an immersive and believable experience.
While you are deeply immersed in the world of Harry Potter, the dips and turns of the coaster track will keep your adrenaline pumping.
The ride is accurately calibrated so that what you see in your VR set coincides with the movement of the coaster, making for a truly unique and memorable experience. It’s like being transported into the world of Harry Potter!
So, if you’re a fan of the books or movies, or even if you’re looking for a fantastic roller coaster ride, I highly recommend checking out Harry Potter and the Escape From Gringotts. You won’t be disappointed!
Flight of the Hippogriff
Do not be fooled by the Flight of the Hippogriff position at number seven. This family-friendly coaster is a blast for all ages. The Flight of the Hippogriff is a steel roller coaster manufactured by B&M. It opened in 2000 and is 1,099 feet long with a top speed of 30 miles per hour. The ride lasts for approximately 1 minute and 30 seconds.
The Flight of the Hippogriff is an excellent coaster for those who are looking for a more relaxed but still exciting ride. It’s perfect for families with small children or anyone who wants to enjoy the views of Hogsmeade Village while getting their adrenaline fixed.
The ride starts with a slow ascent up a hill, providing riders with a stunning view of the castle grounds. Then, when you think you’re about to reach the top, the Hippogriff takes off, soaring through the air at breakneck speed.
At the top of the tower, riders get a stunning view of the castle grounds. But before long, as you still marvel at the views, you’ll be plummeting down a hill and hurtling around sharp turns. The experience is both exhilarating and terrifying, and it’s sure to leave your heart pounding.
But don’t worry; the ride comes to a safe stop back at the station, where you can disembark and catch your breath. So, if you’re looking for a little thrill, hop on board Flight of the Hippogriff – be sure to hold on tight!
Pteranodon Flyers
The Pteranodon Flyers is a steel roller coaster manufactured by B&M. It opened in 1999 and is 800 feet long with a top speed of 40 miles per hour. The ride lasts for approximately 2 minutes and 30 seconds.
The Pteranodon Flyers is an excellent coaster for those looking for a thrill while being safe at the same time.
Riding a Pteranodon Flyer is an exhilarating experience! These flying creatures are gentle and intelligent, making them the perfect mount for anyone looking to explore the skies. They are also very fast, which makes them great for getting from place to place in a hurry. While they cannot carry large loads, they can easily transport two people and their belongings.
Best of all, Pteranodon Flyers are equipped with natural heat vision, so you can easily navigate through the darkness.
Whether you are looking for an adventure or want to enjoy a scenic view, riding a Pteranodon Flyer is sure to be a memorable experience.
Woody Woodpecker’s Nuthouse Coaster
Coming in last but not least is Woody Woodpecker’s Nuthouse Coaster. This is a family-friendly roller coaster manufactured by Zamperla. It opened in 1999 and is 679 feet long with a top speed of 22 miles per hour. The ride lasts for approximately 1 minute and 30 seconds.
Woody Woodpecker’s Nuthouse Coaster is an excellent coaster for those who want to experience a little bit of everything.
As soon as you sit down in your cart, you’re whisked away on a wild ride through Woody’s world. The first thing you see is Woody himself zipping around his nuthouse on a pair of roller skates. Then, you careen through a series of loop-the-loops, twists, and turns, all while Woody laughs maniacally in the background.
The twists and turns of the coaster mimic Woody’s chaotic energy, and the final drop is sure to send your heart racing. The whole ride lasts just over a minute, but it’s sure to leave you feeling dizzy and disoriented.
Whether you are looking for an adventure or want to enjoy a scenic view, riding a Pteranodon Flyer is sure to be a memorable experience.
Conclusion
So, there you have it – nine of the best roller coasters at Universal Studios! Each one offers something unique and thrilling. The Incredible Hulk Coaster will send you hurtling through the air at over 40 miles per hour, while Jurassic World VelociCoaster will take you on a high-speed chase as you race alongside raptors, reliving the scenes from the iconic movie franchise.
On the other hand, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey is an immersive coaster that takes you through some of the most iconic scenes from the Harry Potter films. Flight of the Hippogriff will leave you gasping for air as it soars over Hagrid’s Hut on this family-friendly coaster. Finally, Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure is an exhilarating coaster that takes you on a wild ride through the Forbidden Forest.
No matter your coaster, you will indeed have an incredible experience. So, what are you waiting for? Hop on board and hold on tight!
More about our TFVG Author
A seasoned traveller, Dad, and avid sports tourist, James foundered The Family Vacation Guide to share his expert vacation experiences- especially when it comes to being a travelling family man.
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