EDITOR’S NOTE: This blog was originally published in February of 2019 and then underwent extensive updates and editing in the fall of 2020 to remain current and relevant.
I personally think you should see it all when you come to Universal Orlando Resort. But knowing there’s SO much to do, these are my top suggestions for unforgettable moments you definitely won’t want to miss.
That moment when you realize you’re going to Hogwarts castle
Location: Universal Islands of Adventure
When I first stepped into The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, my heart skipped a beat. The land is absolutely beautiful! Then I turned the corner and Hogwarts castle was revealed, I definitely shed a tear. It’s truly an amazing sight.
That moment when you catch some serious air on Jurassic World VelociCoaster
The newest attraction at Universal Islands of Adventure has several exhilirating moments, but going over that 155ft tall “Top Hat” is one you’ll never forget.
That moment when Optimus Prime says Greetings…
Location: Universal Studios Florida
What’s cooler than seeing your favorite Transformer give you a warm welcome as you step up to pose for a photo? Next to TRANSFORMERS: The Ride-3D is a photo opportunity to meet Optimus Prime, Bumblebee and Megatron.
That moment when you meet a Raptor
Location: Universal Islands of Adventure
One of the absolute must-get photo ops at Universal Orlando is meeting Blue or one of the other Raptors from Jurassic World at Raptor Encounter. Here you’ll get to learn some interesting Raptor facts about this clever girl and if you’re brave enough, you can even grab a quick photo with her.
PRO TIP FOR DINOSAUR LOVERS: Book a room at Lowes Royal Pacific Resort and the kids can even sleep in their very own gyrosphere bed in our Jurassic World Kids’ Suites.
That moment when you fly up in the air 185 feet
Location: Universal Islands of Adventure
Doctor Doom’s Fearfall will have you screaming way more words than you even knew you had in your vocabulary. No fear of heights? This attraction was built for you. Fear of heights? Buckle up because this launch uses more thrust than a 747 jet.
That moment when your flying motorbike goes into a 17-foot vertical free fall
Location: Universal Islands of Adventure
It’s hard enough trying to choose between all the can’t miss moments you’ll experience on Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. But this was the first coaster in the U.S. to feature a free-fall vertical drop and I think that’s pretty rad. You won’t even know it’s coming, but when it happens, grip that handlebar tight and enjoy the ride.
That moment when you take an 85-foot plunge to escape a large T. rex
Jurassic Park River Adventure takes you on a lovely scenic water cruise where you come across some nice herbivore dinosaurs. All of a sudden, you’re taken off course and end up staring down the massive jaws of a HUGE T.rex before plunging 85 feet. It’s so awesome!
That moment when you see a volcano through your hotel window
Location: Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort
Picture this… You walk into your room at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort for the first time and open the blinds to discover one of the most breathtaking views on property. Our Volcano Side Rooms give a bird’s eye view into Universal Volcano Bay. Let me tell you, these views are absolutely out of this world. Plus, being a hotel guest gives you access to Volcano Bay an hour before the park opens with Early Park Admission.
That moment when you come face-to-face with Kong
Are you brave enough to step foot into this mysterious island at Skull Island: Reign of Kong? Inside, you’ll encounter a few frightening creatures and prehistoric predators. But at the end of your journey, you’ll come face to face with the mighty Kong himself. This moment is definitely worth the trek.
That moment when you step inside the tube at Kala & Tai Nui Serpentine Body Slides
Location: Universal Volcano Bay
These body slides at Universal Volcano Bay are sure to make your jaw drop when the floor disappears, sending you plummeting down intertwining tubes through the Krakatau Volcano.
That moment when your wand actually does magic
Location: Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure
One of the most unique experiences in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is enjoying the Interactive Wand spots. With the flick of your wrist, your Interactive Wand can bring to life magical moments throughout Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade. The wands are available in both lands or online.
That moment when you climb 90 degrees straight up on Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
Location: Universal Studios Florida
In my opinion, the most intense part of Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit is the moment you’re 90 degrees looking straight up at the sky, your stomach turning from anticipation. At least you have some music playing to ease your nerves.
That moment when you realize it’s time for a tasty snack
Location: Universal Studios Florida
This. Donut. Is. Amazing! Find this delicious giant pink-iced sprinkled donut in Springfield, U.S.A. at Lard Lad Donuts.
That moment when you eat a sushi roll that’s actually a burger
Location: Universal CityWalk
Two of my favorite meals are sushi and a good burger. At The Cowfish, my two favorite meals collide. You can literally eat what they call Burgushi. It’s either a burger made with sushi or sushi that’s actually a burger. It is all SO good!
That moment when you Hulk out
Location: Universal Islands of Adventure
Shooting out of the tunnel and racing up to 67 miles per hour on The Incredible Hulk Coaster is INTENSE. And so much fun! This roller coaster has a total of seven inversions and will make you want to come back for more.
That moment when you see the Ukrainian Ironbelly dragon breathe fire
Location: Universal Studios Florida
Sitting on top of Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, at the far end of Diagon Alley, is a massive fire-breathing dragon. One of my favorite moments is stepping into Diagon Alley and catching the dragon growl and blast fire out of its mouth.
Fun Fact: The fire out of the dragon’s mouth reaches temperatures of 3,560°F!
That moment when you take in the view from a rooftop bar
Location: Universal’s Aventura Hotel
You’ll definitely want to check out Bar 17 Bistro at Universal’s Aventura Hotel. This is the first rooftop bar at Universal Orlando Resort, and these views (and bao buns) are absolutely incredible.
What’s your favorite moment when you visit Universal Orlando Resort? Tell us in the comments!