Universal Resort in Orlando, Florida is my family’s favorite theme park to visit (yes, even more so than Disney – GASP!). All three parks – Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios, and Volcano Bay – have great rides, great food, and great shows. It is relaxing and fun, and so much less confusing than the wonderful mouse theme park next door. Here are our top 5 rides at Universal (across all 3 parks)

1. Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure –

Located at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade in Islands of Adventure. It brings to life the magical world of Harry Potter.

This attraction is unique because it allows you to choose between sitting on the motorbike or sitting in the sidecar (which I prefer). As the ride takes you through the Forbidden Forest, you encounter magical creatures, unexpected twists, hidden surprises and it all makes it feel like you’re truly on an adventure with Hagrid.

You can’t beat the magic of Harry Potter. This ride is fun, fast and magical, and the que is just as great as the ride.

2. VelociCoaster –

This ride is located in Islands of Adventure, at the Jurassic Park section, and is a high-speed coaster that takes you racing alongside the ferocious Velociraptors. It has amazing visuals, sound effects, and even close encounters with the raptors themselves.

If you are a Jurassic Park film fan like we are, this ride delivers an unforgettable experience. It’s seriously the smoothest and fastest ride we have been on. It’s scary but it’s worth it, and once again the que is on point.

3. Men In Black: Alien Attack –

Located on the Universal Studios side next to Springfield and the Simpson’s Ride. It’s fun and interactive, and a great way to get out of the heat for a little while.

On the ride, you are armed with laser guns and your task is to zap as many alien targets as you can in order to save planet Earth. The more aliens you zap, the more points you score, and at the end they total the points for a winner.

My family rode this multiple times and we loved competing against each other to see who could zap the most aliens. This ride is great for all ages.

4. Honu of the Honu ika Moana –

This one was our favorite at Volcano Bay (Universal’s only water park). Maybe it was because the whole family could ride it together, but we had a great time on this thrilling water coaster.

Inspired by the look of Hawaii, you board a raft that launches you through twist, turns and drops. You have to hang on tight and there’s no way you are not getting wet. It’s definitely an exciting ride, and we loved it.

5. Transformers: The Ride –

Located at Universal Studios, Transformers: The Ride is an action-packed 3D adventure. If you’ve watched the Transformers movie franchise, you’ll know all about the Autobots and the Decepticons. This ride takes you into a battle to save the AllSpark.

It’s an intense, high-speed adventure with special effects. If you can handle motion rides and you are a fan of the Transformers movies, you will love it!

Notes: There is a great meet and greet with 3 of the transformers (Megatron, Bumblebee, and Optimus Prime) right around the corner from the ride.

Universal theme parks seem to change up every so many years. It’s rumored that the now closed Poisedon’s Fury will be a Zelda themed land which would be very exciting. I am also looking forward to the opening of the new Universal Epic this May. If you haven’t been paying attention, this new universe is going to be amazing! You can find more information about it on Universal’s app.

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