Universal Studios and Universal’s Island of Adventure are filled with unforgettable experiences. Some include classic rides and shows that keep guests coming back, and others are brand new adventures like the Velocicoaster. Every time I go to Universal parks, a few questions come up. Should I go to both parks? Should I get the park-to-park pass? Should I get an express pass? I’m not sure why I even have those routine questions anymore. The answers are always yes, yes and yes! At least for the first day, I would get the park-to-park pass, start the day at Island of Adventures, and then hop on the Hogwarts Express that takes you straight into the other park – no gates, no lines to get in again – well, except for the line for the train, but those are fast moving. The express pass will help you get the most for your money as you can speed through lines and increase the number of rides you can go on throughout the day. Still, with so many rides to go on, the key is to prioritize the ones you don’t want to miss, and here are a few favourites that we recommend adding to that list!

Island of Adventure

VELOCICOASTER – This newly added roller coaster has been the talk of roller coaster enthusiasts. Reaching 155’ and with a max speed of 70mph, many are calling it the best roller coaster out there. Velocicoaster takes you on a thrilling adventure with dinosaurs, inversions, speed, and more – while you are held by nothing but a lap bar! Being new, and popular, and awesome, I’d recommend going to Velocicoaster first thing in the morning, especially if you get early admission by staying at a Universal property.

JURASSIC PARK RIVER ADVENTURE – The ride is near Velocicoaster, and although you may need to catch your breath in between these two, Jurassic Park River Adventure is a must. The ride features a fun and relaxing time as you glide along in your raft. Of course, until dinosaurs come into the picture and you face a 85 foot drop. Still fun, but I’m not sure about relaxing. Ha.

Photo Credit: Universal Orlando

HARRY POTTER AND THE FORBIDDEN JOURNEY – This is one of the classic experiences that never gets old as you enter the familiar passageways and corridors of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

Photo Credit: Universal Orlando

HOGWARTS EXPRESS – A magical ride in itself, you get to see characters from the popular franchise as you ride the train from park to park. Each way offers a different experience.

Universal Studios

Universal Studios is just as fun and the perfect park to visit after lunch, so you can check out experiences like Despicable Me Minion Mayhem or Shrek 4-D, as you recover – before you hit the bigger, faster rides.

HOLLYWOOD RIP RIDE ROCKIT – This is the coaster for music lovers, and who doesn’t like music? Guests are able to pick the song they want to hear during a thrilling ride topping 65mph.

Photo Credit: Universal Orlando

FAST and FURIOUS – SUPERCHARGED – This is one for movie lovers, and another chance to catch your breath as you step into a re-creation of the film with actual film props.

Photo Credit: Universal Orlando

What is next? There are plenty more fun things to do at both parks. From the Transformers 3D ride – to Skull Island: Reign of Kong and Doctor Doom’s Fearfall back at the Island of Adventure – and yes, you can get the Hogwarts train back and enjoy a different experience than you did earlier in the day. And don’t forget to grab your butterbeer – in either park!