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Welcome to my latest blog post on Herbs N Garlic by Gurleen! While my usual focus is on food, today I am going to take you to a thrilling detour into the world of fun and excitement at Universal Studios. From exciting rides to immersive experiences, Universal Studios is a must-visit destination for families. I highly recommend planning your ride list for Universal Studios as it will be crucial to making the most of your time at the park. In this post, I’ll guide you through the best rides, Various ride types, tips for exploring the park, and what you can expect during your visit!
Table of contents
- Let’s Start with an Overview of Universal Studios
- Let’s talk about the Must-Ride Attractions
- Next Up! The Thrill Rides for Adventure Seekers
- If you travelling with Family then these Family-Friendly Attractions are for you
- Other Not to Miss Rides in Universal
- Water Rides to Cool Off
- Tips for Enjoying Your Ride List for Universal
- Additional Resources You Might Find Useful
Let’s Start with an Overview of Universal Studios
Universal Studios has a rich history as it dates back to 1930s when it was a film studio. Can you believe it? Well! Now it has evolved into an maginificient theme park, boasting thrilling rides based on famous movies and tv shows. The park is divided into various themed areas, including the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, the Marvel Wonders and more. Each area throughout the park is filled with attractions, entertainment, and lots of unique dining experiences in each of the themed areas that make your experience even more fun & interactive.
To familiarize yourself to the park, I recommend arriving early and getting a head start on the popular rides, especially during peak seasons (May – Oct). You can use the park map but what I highly recommend is downloading the official Universal Studios app to stay updated on wait times and show schedules. The app will make your experience a breeze and take all your hassle away.
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Let’s talk about the Must-Ride Attractions
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
Being a big Harry Potter fan I definitely recommend the magical journey through Hogwarts. The experience is unlike others, enjoy the thrilling twists and turns as you join Harry, Ron, and Hermione on an unforgettable & immersive adventure. Key features of the ride are the captivating scenes from the films seemelessly incorporated with cutting-edge technology that brings the magic to life. It’s like experiencing Hogwarts in real life. If travelling with kids remember that it has a height restriction of 48 inches for this ride!
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Velocity Raptors
If you are a rollercoaster fan then this is the ride for you. With a rush of speed and excitement on Velocity Raptors, its as they say brings you “face-to-face with the ferocity of prehistoric predators”. The ride takes you through rapid twists, unexpected drops, and breathtaking turns, making you feel like you’re dodging raptors at high speed. Being an Adrenaline seeker this ride was a dream filled with incredible velocity and dynamic course. To avoid long lines, you can try early in the day or late in the evening but trust me its worth the wait!
Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure is like stepping into the magical world with Hagrid by your side taking you on a journey through the Forbidden Forest. One of the Best rides when it comes to an immersive ride experience taking you on motorbikes, with one seat as Hagrid’s bike and the other as a sidecar – I sat on the bike but side car is equally fun so I’ve heard. The rides will make you experience magical creatures, has a few sudden drops, and a few surprises along the way which I won’t reveal because its something you need to experience. Honestly, the best ride which has a beautiful story and is filled with thrilling exploration. This ride rightly so has the longest line up so using Express Pass or riding early is recommended. Is it worth the wait? DEFINITELY!
Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon 4D
Have you been to New York? Well! Whether you have or not this fast-paced world ride takes you on a late-night TV adventure called the “Race Through New York” Starring Jimmy Fallon in 4D! This unique ride is like a virtual tour of New York City, guided by Jimmy Fallon himself encompassed in a 4D Experience. You will literally race through the iconic New York landmarks—from the Empire State Building to the Statue of Liberty while experiencing twists, turns, and splashes at every corner to make it seem more life-like. It’s a lighthearted, family-friendly experience which extremely enjoyable in Fallon’s Unique style.
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Skull Island: Reign of Kong
This ride taken you on mysterious world of Skull Island on whats called the “Skull Island: Reign of Kong“. This is a multi-sensory ride that transports you into the world of King Kong making you experience the prehistoric creatures, jungle landscapes, and yes you will encounter with Kong too! It’s all so life-like, my mind was blown. It’s an expedition journey through dark caves and dense forests filled with 3D visuals and immersive effects. Perfect ride for thrill-seekers and fans of action-packed rides!
Next Up! The Thrill Rides for Adventure Seekers
The Incredible Hulk Coaster
Unleash your inner superhero with The Incredible Hulk Coaster. This iconic green coaster goes from 0 to 40 mph in a matter of seconds. It’s like they launch you through inversions, loops, and powerful G-forces making you feel like you’ve gained some superhuman strength. Well! It is the HULK and they make you feel like one! If you’re a fan of intense roller coasters, this one is a can’t-miss!
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Revenge of the Mummy
Remember when the Mummy came out the first time? It was such a thrilling movie and a new concept that one peoples hearts. This ride takes you on an indoor roller coaster adventure combining thrilling drops, dark tunnels, and surprises around every corner. The unique ride is a perfect blend of roller coaster thrills with a horror theme. It’s a must-ride for those who love a good scare even if you haven’t watched the movie!
Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
Oh Man! This roller coaster made me a bit effy after the ride but what an exhilarating ride that allows you to customize your ride experience with your choice of music with speakers installed right near your ear! As you soar the loops and curves, you’ll get to enjoy the Universal Park views and an adrenaline rush like no other.
Fast & Furious – Supercharged
Calling all Vin Diesel fans to experience the Fast & Furious life with this immersive ride. A high-speed chase and an exciting adventure that will get your adrenaline-pumping as you join the crew on an epic adventure. Fans of movies? You will love the connection. My only complain for this ride was that it ended to too soon which made it feel incomplete for some reason. Well I hope they add some more thrill and make it last a bit longer!
If you travelling with Family then these Family-Friendly Attractions are for you
Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
Travelling with younger audience? Or you are just a bit fan for the Minions? This unique ride brings the cute beloved Minions to life in a fun and engaging way. Families will have a blast as you join Gru and his minions on a heartwarming adventure that is one to remember.
E.T. Adventure
Taking you back in time, this nostalgic ride allows you to join E.T. on a magical journey back to his home planet. Best part is that it’s suitable for all ages and is a delightful experience that will revoke all memories for parents while entertaining the kids. What I loved most about this ride was the displays, the most spectacular displays I saw in Universal, it feels like a joy ride through another planet that is STUNNING!
Transformers: The Ride 3D
Another action-packed ride with 3D visuals and thrilling elements that transport you into the heart of the Transformers universe. The ride is bit longer than other rides in Universal but its action packed for you to Enjoy!
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The Simpsons Ride 4D
Who wants to join Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, and Maggie on a wild, hilarious adventure? The Simpsons Ride 4D is a must. It is immersive, motion-simulator ride takes you through the charming and chaotic town of Springfield, bringing the animated world of The Simpsons to life. The ride has a lot for thrilling drops, twists, and plenty of laughs. It’s a fun, family-friendly ride beautifully capturing the humor and excitement of the series, making it a must-try for fans of all ages.
Other Not to Miss Rides in Universal
Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
Ever wondered what it would be like if you were a wizard? Well, it all starts with magic money, haha. This rides makes you feel like you own your vault at Gringotts. Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts is a an immersive 3D ride that takes you on a thrilling journey deep within the vaults of Gringotts Bank. As you wait in line, you get to experience going to the bank watching Goblins working before you enter the cellar to explore the vault yourself. Prepare to face Bellatrix Lestrange and Voldemort, as you join Harry, Ron, and Hermione in a daring escape just like in the movies but this time more real than ever!
The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man
An action marvel movie that takes you back in time – Well! Swing into action with The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man. A 3D adventure ride that combines high-speed motion and incredible visual effects to make you feel like you are the right-hand man to Spider-Man himself. The theme is set in New York where you encounter classic villains, navigate skyscrapers, dodge attacks getting your spidy sense in action to protect the city. It is a must for Marvel Fans!
Doctor Doom’s Fearfall
A heart-stopping freefall? Yes, I’m in! The Doctor Doom’s Fearfall is the perfect answer for it. This drop tower ride takes you up over 150 feet into the air before plunging you back down with breathtaking speed. Although an incredible experience, it felt a bit underwhelming to me but maybe I had higher expectations. Give it a try and let me know what you thought of the ride?
Flight of the Hippogriff
If you are looking for a fun, family-friendly adventure, hop on Flight of the Hippogriff. A themed roller coaster that offers a gentle ride set near Hagrids Hut making you feel close to him. With scenic views of Hogwarts Castle in the background, it’s a delightful experience for younger wizards and witches or anyone seeking a lighter ride. Just remember to bow to the Hippogriff before you take off!
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Water Rides to Cool Off
Jurassic Park River Adventure
This thrilling water ride is the cutest. It takes you through the Jurassic Park universe where you get to watch various kinds of dinosaurs while sitting in a boat. And yes it does have the thrill and a big splash into the water. You will get mildy wet so day time is best or evenings on a warm day works too!
Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls
This one is my Fav! A ride full of laughter and excitement! With an exhilarating drop and a big splash it will make you want to go again. Being a popular ride, I would recommend to go early in the morning when the lines are shorter and the sun is less intense or late evening when most people avoid being wet from the ride.
Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges
The Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges, a thrilling white-water rafting adventure which is extremely fun but will leave you soaking wet! If you watched the cartoon, you will see amazing displays of Popeye as he sets out to rescue Olive Oyl from the clutches of the mischievous Bluto. This circular raft ride seats multiple people and takes you through a water circuit with unexpected drops, and whirlpools. Making for a wild, unpredictable journey filled with laughter as you watch yourself and others get soaked. Don’t forget to stash your valuables in a locker or hide in the middle of raft to keep them dry!
Tips for Enjoying Your Ride List for Universal
To maximize your fun at Universal Studios, consider the following tips:
Best Times to Visit: Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for shorter wait times.
Fast Pass and Express Options: Invest in these options to skip the regular lines for popular attractions.
Height Requirements and Age Restrictions: Always check ride requirements beforehand to avoid disappointments.
Avoiding Long Lines: Utilize the app for real-time wait times and strategically plan your day.
Universal Studios is packed with must-try rides that cater to which are for thrill-seekers, families, and everyone in between. Planning your ride list ahead of time will ensure a fantastic experience at the park. I encourage you to share your favorite rides and experiences in the comments below!
Additional Resources You Might Find Useful
For more information, visit Universal Studios’ official site. Consider downloading the Universal Studios app for live updates and navigation assistance for tour. If you’re looking for nearby accommodations and dining options – I recommend checking out local hotels and restaurants that cater to families visiting the park. Airbnb is also a good option especially when you are travelling in bigger groups.
I hope this ride list gets you excited for your upcoming visit to Universal Studios! There’s a world of fun waiting for you, and I can’t wait to hear about your adventures. Be sure to follow @hngbygurleen on Instagram & Youtube for more tips, guides, and delicious recipes!
❤ Gurleen
FAQs Top Rides for Universal Studio
A: Must-rides attractions at Universal include “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey,” “Jurassic World – Velocity Raptors,” “Hagrids Motorbike Adventure” “The Simpsons Ride,” and the “Jimmy Falons Race Through New York” for roller coaster & 4D fans experiences.
A: Arrive early, especially during peak seasons, and download the Universal Studios app to monitor real-time wait times. Consider purchasing a Fast Pass or Express Pass to skip lines on popular rides.
A: Yes! Attractions like “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem,” “E.T. Adventure,” and “Shrek 4-D” are perfect for families with kids.
A: Most rides do have some specific height requirements. For example, “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” requires riders to be at least 48 inches tall. Would recommend checking the height and age restrictions on the website or Universal App.
A: Visiting in the early morning or late afternoon can help you avoid long lines but I would use the app for moving around the park. Of course weekdays and Non peak seasons (May – October) are better shorter wait times.
A: Water rides like “Jurassic Park River Adventure” , “Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls” and “Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges” include splashes and drops but they are super fun. These rides are best on a warm day, but do carry a poncho as some rides can soak you.
A: The park offers amazing themed dining options, my favourite is “Leaky Cauldron” inspired by The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Some of them have immersive experiences along with delicious meal. Don’t forget to try “Butter Beer”.
A: Policies on outside food and drinks vary, so it’s best to check the Universal Studios website or app. Many parks allow small snacks and water bottles, but restrictions may apply.
A: I highly recommended the app. The app provides real-time updates on wait times, show schedules, and an interactive map to help you navigate and plan your day effectively.
A: Yes! Universal Studios often hosts events, such as Halloween Horror Nights and Christmas celebrations. These events can bring unique attractions, themed decor, and special experiences, so be sure to check their event calendar.
