Best Roller Coasters at Universal Orlando (and Why!)

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Is VelociCoaster really Universal Orlando’s best coaster, or is it all hype?

What people consider the “best” roller coaster is going to vary from person to person based on what’s best for them. Different thrill levels, theming details, and more can influence a person’s own unique opinion.

With over 25+ years of riding roller coasters, I’ve ridden over 200 at the time of writing this post. I’m also a Universal Orlando Resort Annual Passholder, so I’ve been there numerous times over the last few years.

I’m going to give my personal rankings for the best roller coasters at Universal Orlando, then also provide what I believe to be the best depending on the type of roller coaster rider you are and why I ranked them that way – not just a random numbered list.

I’ll also provide some expert tips so you can get to riding these coasters with as little stress as possible!

Understanding Your Thrill Profile – What Kind of Roller Coaster Rider Are You?

The Thrill Seeker: You crave high-speed roller coaster launches, multiple coaster inversions, extreme G-forces on coasters, and intense airtime moments. You’re looking for the most intense coaster experience. You know the difference between Intamin, Mack, or B&M roller coasters and love unique elements like a tilt drop track or zero-g stall inversion.

The Story Seeker: You prioritizes highly themed roller coasters and indoor dark ride roller coasters. The narrative and immersion are key, even if the coaster elements are secondary.

The Family Adventurer: You seek thrilling, but accessible rides, focusing on the best coasters for families, and avoiding anything too rough or overwhelming with anxiety-inducing elements. You’re more likely to be critical or wary of ride intensity ratings and whether a ride is a smooth vs. rough ride.

My Personal Ranking for Best Universal Orlando Roller Coasters In 2025

I personally find myself to be a Thrill Seeker who appreciates a good theme and immersive experience like a Story Seeker. Keep that in mind as I go through my personal rankings of the Universal Orlando coasters!

1. VelociCoaster – Universal Islands of Adventure

VelociCoaster is an Intamin launch coaster with two launches, four inversions, and a top speed of 70 mph among the VelociRaptors of the Jurassic Park and Jurassic World movie series.

It may be my favorite roller coaster anywhere, so it makes sense for me to have it placed at the top of this list. It’s smooth, thrilling, and has a really fun theme with lots of airtime moments on those inversions.

It also happens to be one of the biggest roller coasters in Florida and Orlando, as well as the fastest roller coaster at Universal Orlando.

• Why it’s ranked #1: Pure adrenaline, smooth launches, G-forces, zero-g stall, Mosasaurus Roll (the zero-g-roll over the water)
• Intensity Level: High
• Motion sickness: Moderate
• Best for: Thrill Seekers and Jurassic Park fans
• Key features: Thrilling inversions, airtime moments, great theming

2. Stardust Racers – Universal Epic Universe

A MACK dueling launch coaster with a great inversion (nicknamed the Celestial Spin), Stardust Racers is the most intense ride at Epic Universe, and one of the most intense rides at the entire resort.

With loads of airtime and a fun onboard audio soundtrack that changes depending on if you’re riding during the day or night, this ride duels beautifully and reminds you that roller coasters can be works of art flying through the night sky.

One of the fastest roller coasters at Universal Orlando and in Orlando as a whole, Stardust Racers is a must-do on a trip to Epic Universe, and some people’s favorite roller coaster at Universal Orlando Resort.

• Why it’s a favorite: Onboard audio, multiple launches, Celestial Spin inversion, airtime moments, dueling moments
• Intensity Level: High
• Motion sickness: Moderate
• Best for: Thrill Seekers

3. Incredible Hulk – Universal Islands of Adventure

An icon since its opening in 1999 with Islands of Adventure, The Incredible Hulk coaster still stands strong on people’s rankings of best coasters anywhere, let alone Universal Orlando.

With an uphill 0-40mph launch straight into a barrel roll over the park, it’s a classic and intense coaster that flips riders upside down 7 times, more than any other coaster on this list.

It can be a bit bumpy, but it isn’t too rough to take away from the experience. Rather, I think it helps beef up this rides intensity.

• Intensity Level: High
• Motion sickness: High
• Best for: Thrill Seekers
• Key features: Uphill launch into barrel roll, 7 inversions, can be a bit bumpy, but not too rough

4. Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure – Universal Islands of Adventure

One of the most well-themed coasters on this list, Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure features immersive story moments and several unique elements, including multiple launches, a drop track, and backwards moments.

That doesn’t mean it’s too intense for families to ride, though. I think this roller coaster has the perfect balance of thrill and theme, making it a must-do for those who are looking for immersive, thrilling rides.

Though it can get long lines, this ride takes Universal Express Pass now! But if you don’t have that, you can also take advantage of early park admission to ride this before the lines get too long, and I highly recommend doing that – this queue is my least favorite on property.

• Intensity Level: Moderate
• Motion sickness: Low to moderate
• Best for: Story Seekers, Thrill Seekers, and Family Adventurers, and Harry Potter fans

5. Revenge of the Mummy – Universal Studios Florida

Airtime moments, backwards and forwards launches, fire effects, and a fun theme await you on Revenge of the Mummy.

A roller coaster that grows on me every time I ride it, it’s one of the best examples of a family-friendly, thrilling indoor roller coaster. If you want a thrilling way to get out of the Florida heat, this is the ride for you.

Highly re-rideable, some effect show their age from time to time, but the park recently performed a refurb on this ride that has almost everything looking great and ready to thrill for years to come.

• Why it holds up: Airtime moments, backwards launch, fire effects, immersive queue and pre-show
• Intensity Level: Moderate to High
• Motion sickness: Moderate
• Best for: Story Seekers, Thrill Seekers, and Family Adventurers, and Horror Fans

6. Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts – Universal Studios Florida

A dark ride and roller coaster hybrid like Revenge of the Mummy, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts has massive screens and visual sets to accompany its coaster-like experience.

Though it does contain elements like a tilt track and a small launch, the coaster portion of this ride isn’t too long or intense, meaning it’s great for families and Harry Potter fans, who will love the details in the queue while they wait.

I do recommend using Express Pass for this, as the line gets long, so consider purchasing it or staying at an on-site hotel that includes it!

• Why it’s immersive: Themed coaster/dark ride hybrid, massive screens, physical sets, drop track
• Intensity Level: Moderate
• Motion sickness: Moderate
• Best for: Story Seekers, Thrill Seekers, and Family Adventurers, and Harry Potter fans

7. Hiccup’s Wing Gliders – Universal Epic Universe

With a fun theme around How to Train Your Dragon and some surprisingly fun launches, Hiccup’s Wing Gliders is a great family coaster with charming theming, and a great way to view Isle of Berk at Epic Universe.

With enough thrills to not be considered a kid’s coaster, the onboard audio also really adds to the experience here. That first launch always takes me by surprise!

• Why it’s here: Family coaster with charming theming and a great view of the surrounding area
• Intensity Level: Moderate
• Motion sickness: Low
• Best for: Story Seekers and Family Adventurers and How to Train Your Dragon Fans

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8. Mine-Cart Madness – Universal Epic Universe

A family coaster with some fun thrills and a unique “jump the track” element throughout the ride, this roller coaster is fun, but rather short for how long its line gets.

It is also pretty bumpy, especially for a newer ride. The bumpiness adds to the idea of riding in an out-of-control mine cart, but keep that in mind before riding.

The theming is really great though, and this is definitely recommended for anyone who loves Donkey Kong or Mario from Nintendo.

• Why it’s here: Fun themed coaster with unique “jump the track” sections
• Intensity Level: Low to Moderate
• Motion sickness: Low
• Best for: Story Seekers, Family Adventurers, Donkey Kong and Mario lovers

9. Curse of the Werewolf – Universal Epic Universe

A bit too short to be considered anything other than a family coaster, Curse of the Werewolf has some fun launches and theming throughout its ride experience. It even launches you backwards!

The spinning adds a nice thrill here, but nothing that’s going to make you feel like you’re too out of control. I just wish the ride was a little longer.

• Why it’s here: Family spinning coaster with some fun theming
• Intensity Level: Low to Moderate
• Motion sickness: Moderate to High
• Best for: Family Adventurers and horror fans

10. Flight of the Hippogriff – Universal Islands of Adventure

The best of what I would consider Universal Orlando’s “kids” coasters, Flight of the Hippogriff really has its theme going for it, as it’s located between Hogwarts Castle and Hagrid’s hut.

It’s not something that most grown-ups are going to want to do over and over, but it’s a great option for small riders looking for their first roller coaster.

• Why it’s here: Kid coaster with charming theming and a view of Hagrid’s and Hogwarts
• Intensity Level: Low
• Motion sickness: Low
• Best for: Family Adventurers and Harry Potter fans

11. Trolls Trollercoaster – Universal Studios Florida

Recently rethemed to Trolls, this kids coaster features some theming and not many thrills. 

It’s cute, especially for kids, but I wouldn’t recommend waiting in a long line for it unless you have a small child that really wants to ride it.

• Why it’s here: Kid coaster with charming theming
• Intensity Level: Low
• Motion sickness: Low
• Best for: Family Adventurers and Trolls fans

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12. Pteranodon Flyers – Universal Islands of Adventure

Pteranodon Flyers is the only roller coaster I haven’t ridden on this list because it requires you have a child with you to ride – no adult-only riders.

Suspended under the track as if you’re being carried around by a Pteranodon, it just consists of small lift and gradual glide down around the Jurassic Park area of the park.

• Why it’s here: Kid coaster with charming theming and a view of Jurassic Park
• Intensity Level: Low
• Motion sickness: Low
• Best for: Family Adventurers and Jurassic Park fans

Best Universal Orlando Roller Coasters for Thrill Seekers

1. VelociCoaster

• Why it ranks here: Unmatched speed, multiple launches, 4 inversions, incredible airtime. This is the answer for those seeking the most intense, high-speed experience, though the Hulk vs. VelociCoaster debate is a hot topic among coaster fans.

2. Stardust Racers

• Why it ranks here: Intense roller coaster that adds beauty with the dueling elements, plus lots of airtime, an inversion, and intense launches

3. Hulk

• Why it ranks here: Powerful uphill launch, 7 inversions, classic Universal thrill for those who’ll love inversions and strong launches.

Best Universal Orlando Roller Coasters for Story Seekers

Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure

• Why it ranks here: Unparalleled storytelling, multiple launches, unique ride vehicles (motorbike/sidecar), and impressive animatronics. A highly themed coaster experience, perfect for those who value story and world-building over pure G-forces.

Revenge of the Mummy

• Why it ranks here: Classic indoor coaster with sudden launches, impressive effects, and a fantastic storyline for fans of indoor, story-driven thrills.

Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts

• Why it ranks here: Seamless blend of dark ride and coaster elements, incredible 3D effects, and a pivotal tilt track. A great combination of dark ride and coaster with strong theming.

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Best Universal Orlando Roller Coasters for Family Adventurers

Hiccup’s Wing Gliders

• Why it ranks here: A fun, scenic coaster perfect for introducing younger guests to roller coasters.

Mine-Cart Madness

• Why it ranks here: Has a really fun theme and isn’t too scary for younger kids.

Curse of the Werewolf

• Why it ranks here: The spinning adds a fun thrill to a roller coaster that isn’t too long for younger guests to enjoy.

Expert Tips for Riding the Best Universal Orlando Roller Coasters

Navigating Crowds & Ride Strategy:

• Utilize Early Park Admission: Lines can get long for these popular coasters, so be sure to take advantage of Early Park Admission if it’s available, which it currently is for VelociCoaster, Mine-Cart Madness, and Hagrid’s.
• Express Pass: Cutting your wait times down with Express Pass can be worth it depending on when you go. And those of you worried about it being as complicated as Disney’s Lightning Lane, don’t worry – it’s much easier to use.
• Universal Hotels with Express Pass: Some on-site hotels offer Express Pass as a perk. It can be worth it to spend more for the hotel room because sometimes it can be cheaper than having to buy Express Passes for everyone in your party!
• Single Rider Lines: If it’s available, single rider lines can be a great hack for individual riders on many coasters. Just keep in mind that you will be split up from your party and won’t be able to pick which seat you ride in.

Conquering Coaster Concerns:

• Stay hydrated, don’t ride immediately after eating, and if you get motion sickness, consider taking some non-drowsy medication to help.
• Be sure to check height and any physical restrictions before getting in line and trying to ride a coaster.
• Some roller coasters on this list (VelociCoaster, Stardust Racers, and Incredible Hulk) require you to get a free locker, making you go through metal detectors before you ride. Others let you take small bags on, but still require a locker for larger items.
• Larger riders may be able to be accommodated on certain attractions. For example, Incredible Hulk has certain seats for larger riders. Again, be sure to check and ask a ride attendant before entering the queue line.

Planning Your Day Around Coasters:

• Visit Universal Orlando at a time when it’s going to be less busy if you don’t want to deal with long lines or large crowds.
• Sometimes, you can’t get to everything you want to. If I only had time to ride one roller coaster for each type of rider, I’d pick VelociCoaster for Thrill Seekers, Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure for Story Seekers, and Hiccup’s Wing Gliders for Family Adventurers.

Ready to Ride? Let an Expert Plan Your Perfect Universal Orlando Trip!

Don’t miss out on riding the best coasters at Universal Orlando Resort for you. Wasting time in the wrong lines or missing a must-do because of confusion is a real fear, and it’s one I can help you avoid.

Planning a Universal Orlando vacation, especially when you want to optimize your coaster experience, can be overwhelming. From understanding ride ranking nuances to knowing the best strategies for Express Pass, my expertise means a seamless, stress-free trip for you.

Consider me your personal Universal Orlando guide, ensuring you hit all your favorite coasters and make the most of your time visiting this great resort.

I’ll help you navigate ride closures, find the best deals, and create a personalized itinerary tailored to your group’s preferences, whether you’re chasing the next launch coaster, seeking a highly themed coaster experience, or looking for something else entirely.

Request your FREE, Universal Orlando vacation quote today!