Universal Islands of Adventure is a favorite family-friendly park. Beautifully themed lands, thrilling rides, and some delicious eats make this one of the best theme parks in the country.
However, planning a big trip like this can be daunting. You want to make sure that you don’t miss a thing. We’re going to help by letting you in on everything you may want to know, including the best eats as well as tips and tricks for navigating Islands of Adventure like an old pro. So, let’s unpack How to Get the Most from a Universal Islands of Adventure Vacation.
Best Universal Islands of Adventure Rides for Thrills
If you’re looking for some heavy thrills then, we have a list for you. Read on and we’ll tell you the rides that may leave you holding your stomach in your hands.
The Incredible Hulk Coaster
The Incredible Hulk will send you flying and breakneck speeds through loops and spins and 180 degree turns until you are literally gasping for air. And, though it may be pretty intense, it is a smooth ride from start to finish.
*Be sure to empty your pockets at the Free Lockers as cell phones, bags, etc. are prohibited. Height requirement: 54”
Jurassic World Velocicoaster
Jurassic World Velocicoaster carries you high above Jurassic World terrain at breakneck speeds. You’ll twist, wind, and soar over both land and water. This exciting coast won both best New Attraction and Best Roller Coast in 2021.
Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure is located in the Universal Islands of Adventure side of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. This ultra-high-speed coaster carries you to the edge of the Forbidden Forest with Hagrid past strange creatures.
Pro Tip – Either line up at rope drop or go around 1 or 2 PM to get on this ride. The lines can get long but at 6 PM they mark it at capacity, and you will not be able to ride.
Height Requirement: 48″
Best 4D Islands of Adventure Rides
Skull Island: Reign of Kong
This is a trackless ride that carries through a rendition of Skull Island featuring Kong, dinosaurs and all sorts of critters that will jump out at you. Height requirement: 36”
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey is a motion-based dark ride within the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. It’ll have you flying with Harry but be warned, if you have motion sickness, take your Dramamine. Height requirement: 48”
The Amazing Spiderman
In this 4D epic ride you’ll do battle with Spiderman’s greatest enemies. It’s one of the original 4D rides and still one of the best. Height requirement: 40”
Best Islands of Adventure Rides for the Youngsters
What would a trip to Islands of Adventure be if you’re little ones didn’t get in on the fun? Here are some of the best rides for the kiddos.
Flight of the Hippogriff
Flight of the Hippogriff gently carries you on a tour through the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and is great for those who aren’t quite tall enough for the other rides. Height requirement: At least 36″. Children between 36″–48″ (92cm-122cm) must be accompanied by an adult.
One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish
One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish is a classic Dumbo style ride but, on this ride, you get to maneuver your fish to avoid being hit by water. There is no height requirement for this ride.
Islands of Adventure Tips
The Islands of Adventure Express Pass is a great way to get around more than one park. You’ll get on triple the number of rides with the Express Pass.
Here is a list of all the rides that accept the Express Pass:
- Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
- Hogwarts Express (Park-to-Park admission ticket required)
- Flight of the Hippogriff
- The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man
- The Incredible Hulk Coaster
- Storm Force Accelatron
- Doctor Doom’s Fearfall
- Jurassic Park River Adventure
- Skull Island: Reign of Kong
- Caro-Seuss-el
- The High in the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride!
- Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls
- Poseidon’s Fury
Islands of Adventure That Don’t Accept Express Pass
- Pteranodon Flyers (this ride has a virtual line)
- Hagrid’s Mystical Motorbike Adventures (Will have an Express Line in the Future)
Islands of Adventures tickets can be purchased at the park gate. But buying your tickets online is always a better option. Get to the park early to avoid crowds and midday heat.
Use Child Swap for little ones that aren’t tall enough to ride. It allows one parent to wait off while the family waits in line. When the ride is over the parent waiting off the ride can jump right on the ride bypassing lines.
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