If you’re planning your first trip to Universal Orlando Resort or are a seasoned park-goer, you already know that Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure are bursting with attractions, from mesmerizing shows to cutting-edge 3D simulators. But let’s zero in on the quintessential thrill seekers’ delight: rollercoasters!
Universal Orlando boasts some of the most unique and technologically sophisticated coasters in the world. These aren’t just about high speeds; they also feature immersive theming that transports you into another world. Today, we’re zooming in on what rollercoasters do best – speed! There’s nothing quite like the thrill of zipping around the track, the wind whipping through your hair, heart racing, all leading up to that hilarious ride photo at the end.
We’ll take you through all seven coasters between Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure. Buckle up, and let’s go!
Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
Speed: 25 mph
The seventh fastest coaster in the parks is Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts. Clocking at a top speed of 25mph, do not let this number fool you. Located in Universal Studios Florida’s Diagon Alley and a fan-favorite ride in The Wizarding World, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts is a unique indoor steel rollercoaster that follows Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, and Hermione Granger (also known as The Golden Trio) on a thrilling break out from Gringotts Bank.
Hot on their heels are Voldemort and his evil cohort, Bellatrix Lestrange. Along the way, you’ll also see some familiar faces, such as Bill Weasley. And let’s not forget the Ukrainian Ironbelly dragon perched atop the bank itself. It’s there for a reason! It might not be the fastest ride on the list, but Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts will take you on an unrivaled adventure that you won’t soon forget.
Flight of the Hippogriff
Speed: 29 mph
Coming in at number six is the beloved family roller coaster Flight of the Hippogriff, located in Islands of Adventure. With a top speed of 29 mph, this coaster is ideal for younger guests or those new to thrill rides. It offers a fun experience on its own and a gentle introduction to more daring coasters.
Set just on the edge of the Forbidden Forest near Hagrid’s Hut, you’ll get to meet a majestic, golden-eyed Hippogriff, a creature that is half horse, half eagle. When you start on your ride, remember to make eye contact with the lovely animal and also be sure to bow to them as a sign of respect. The coaster itself features a gentle hill and some fantastic views of the snow-capped Hogsmeade Village, as well as the magical Hogwarts Castle itself.
Revenge of the Mummy
Speed: 40 mph
Coaster number five takes us away from The Wizarding World of Harry Potter (for now) and to a cursed movie set. The dark ride Revenge of the Mummy, located in Universal Studios Florida, transports you behind the scenes of the fictional sequel to Brendan Fraser’s The Mummy.
This indoor, dark roller coaster seems innocent enough as you meander through the Museum of Antiquities queue, but once you board the ride and get through the Pharaoh’s Room (eagle-eyed viewers will spot a King Kong reference here), you’ll know that this coaster is not for the faint of heart. As they say, “The curse, it’s real!” and Imhotep has no intentions of letting you out alive. Revenge of the Mummy is incredibly dynamic, featuring stops, literal turnarounds, smoke effects, accelerations, drops, and even Brendan Fraser at the end wishing he’d gotten a cup of coffee. Few rides boast such a unique mix of elements!
With top speeds reaching 40 mph, this dark coaster is one you’ll want to ride again and again. But make sure you have your Medjai symbol close by…just in case. [ghostly swoosh!]
Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
Speed: 50 mph
Now get a Portkey, or a handful of floo powder because it’s back to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter we go! Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure is number four on our list and The Wizarding World’s newest contribution to the coaster realm.
Located in Islands of Adventure, this coaster is equal parts ride, story-telling, and choose-your-own-adventure all at once. The queue takes you through the ruins on the edge of the Forbidden Forest, where Hagrid will invite you to take part in a Magical Creatures class. Before you get to your lesson, you’ll meet some beloved characters: Mr. Weasley, Hagrid, and his sweet dog, Fang. When you reach the ride cars, you’ll choose your adventure. You can either ride the motorbike itself or take the sidecar, and each option offers a unique and thrilling experience.
Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure takes you through seven launches, topping out at 50 mph! It also has the distinction of being one of the longest coasters in Florida at 5,053 feet in length.
But what’s a ride with Hagrid without some magical encounters? Get ready to meet blast-ended skrewts, mischievous Cornish pixies, everyone’s favorite three-headed dog, Fluffy (shouldn’t have told ya that!), and a majestic centaur, among other surprises. And true to Hagrid’s style, expect a few mishaps along the way – there’s never a dull moment when you’re in his company!
Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
Speed: 65 mph
Rockin’ in at number three on our list is none other than Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit! The first coaster to greet you as you walk into Universal Studios Florida is unlike any other. You have the chance to pick your own song to jam out to as you race along the track, adding a personalized touch to an exhilarating ride. Some of the artists you can choose from are ABBA, Kendrick Lamar, and My Chemical Romance. (Don’t forget to look up the secret playlist too!)
Once you get over the impressive 167-foot top hat, you’ll zoom around through the New York section of Universal Studios at speeds reaching 65 mph! Rip Ride Rockit features plenty of twists and turns, but fun fact – it never goes completely upside down. For an extra dose of excitement, hop on when the sun goes down. You’ll be treated to a spectacular light show to go with your music as you ride! Hasta!
The Incredible Hulk Coaster
Speed: 67 mph
Get ready to hulk out with the second fastest coaster on the list – The Incredible Hulk Coaster. One of the most recognizable structures in the Universal Orlando Resort skyline, this imposing attraction will certainly be a highlight for any rollercoaster fan! From the tunnel launch to the zero g’s of this ride, it’s certainly one of the most thrilling rides in the parks.
Refurbished in 2016, the Hulk is better than ever. After getting blasted with gamma rays in the launch tunnel, you’ll roar up and out and hit speeds of 67 mph! The Hulk will take you on no less than seven inversions, a zero-gravity roll, and two subterranean trenches. As you speed around the course, a fantastic soundtrack composed by Fall Out Boy’s lead singer, Patrick Stump, will be blasting through the in-seat speakers, enhancing the adventure.
Jurassic World VelociCoaster
Speed: 70 mph
Last but not least, we have the newest and the fastest coaster at Universal Orlando – Jurassic World VelociCoaster. Before you join Claire Dearing and Owen Grady, you’ll come face-to-face with two raptors, Delta and Echo, in the raptor stable. As you progress through the queue, Claire provides a safety briefing while Owen issues a warning – he’s a bit apprehensive about this training run! When you reach the platform, you’ll see why: Blue and Delta are on your left, and Charlie and Echo are on your right. You’re about to race all four raptors on the fastest coaster at Universal Orlando.
After strapping in, you’ll accelerate to 70 mph in 2.4 seconds, zooming through twists and turns as you chase velociraptors through the rock formations and lush foliage of the park. You’ll experience a second burst of speed that propels you up a 155-foot top hat, followed by a spine-tingling 80-degree drop. The 4,700-foot track will take you through four inversions, a wave turn, and a breathtaking barrel roll over the lagoon. With stunning views from the top hat and superb theming, this coaster is a must-ride both during the daytime and at night.
If you’re a coaster fan, you really can’t get any better than Universal Orlando Resort’s offerings. Besides being some of the most exhilarating rides around, the detailed theming and engaging stories ensure that you won’t just have ridden a rollercoaster; you will have had a truly thrilling adventure! The only question is – which one will you ride first?
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