Get your adrenaline rush riding ALL of the roller coasters at Universal Orlando first thing in the morning.
Universal Orlando Resort is a paradise for thrill-seekers and roller coaster enthusiasts. The other weekend, I “had to” go to Orlando to drop off some conference equipment, and figured out that I might be able to get in some roller coasters before my first morning call at 10am. In this guide, we’ll take you through a step-by-step plan that maximizes your morning by utilizing strategy, the Early Park Admission (EPA), and single rider lines to start your morning off with pure adrenaline before the clock strikes 10 AM.
Top Tips for Early Morning Roller Coaster Rides
*****The plan listed below requires that Islands of Adventure has Early Park Admission at 8am and that Universal Studios also opens at 8am.*****
Arrive Early and Use Early Park Admission
The key to conquering six roller coasters before lunchtime is to arrive at Universal Orlando Resort bright and early. The resort typically opens its gates at 9 AM, but guests who stay at one of the on-site hotels or have Preferred/Premier Annual Passes are granted access to the parks an hour before the general public through Early Park Admission (EPA). Aim to arrive at the park entrance to Islands of Adventure by 7:30 AM at the latest.
Utilize Single Rider Lines
Throughout your morning adventure, take full advantage of the single rider lines at these rides:
- Revenge of the Mummy
- Escape from Gringotts
- Rip Ride Rockit
- The Incredible Hulk Coaster
These lines are often much shorter early in the morning and can dramatically reduce your wait times. Do not use single rider on Hagrids or Velocicoaster, these single rider lines do not reduce wait times.
Take Advantage of Passholder Days
If your visit coincides with Passholder Days, you’re in luck. Universal often designates specific days for Annual Passholders, offering exclusive benefits like scanning your passes before other guests and let you into a closer holding area to get into the parks. Be sure to check the Universal Orlando website or App for any Passholder Day announcements and take advantage of the Passholder line access.
Don’t bring a bag or purse
Leaving your bag or purse behind during the morning can be a time-saving strategy. You’ll breeze through more rides without worrying about locker logistics (on non-metal detection rides), allowing for more coaster conquests and magical moments.
The Schedule to Ride 6 Roller Coasters by 10am
Roller Coaster 1: Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
Your first stop should be Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure in Islands of Adventure. This highly sought-after attraction tends to have long wait times throughout the day, so heading here first is crucial.
I went directly to this ride and walked right on, was off by 8:13. I was even able to ride on the motorbike for the first time in a long time (since I didn’t have my daughter with me)!
Roller Coaster 2: VelociCoaster
After enjoying the magic of Hagrid’s, make your way to the Jurassic Park area for the VelociCoaster. This thrilling ride is a must for coaster enthusiasts, and its popularity means long lines later in the day. Doing this second gives you a chance to experience this adrenaline-pumping coaster with minimal wait times as most guests will still be in line for Hagrid’s.
Be ready to stash your phone in a locker, you do go through metal detection.
I was lucky enough to ride in the back row all by myself with 5 empty rows in front of me, the back row is my favorite for this ride!
Dash Through CityWalk to Universal Studios
At this point, the Hogwarts Express, which connects Islands of Adventure to Universal Studios Florida, will not yet be open (typically doesn’t open until 9 am).
Hulk typically is not open either during EPA (by the time I finished Velocicoaster, it was only 8:28)
So, briskly walk through CityWalk to Universal Studios. If you aren’t really in a rush, you’ll have the opportunity to grab a quick breakfast or coffee on the way if you wish.
Roller Coaster 3: Revenge of the Mummy
Your next coaster conquest is Revenge of the Mummy in Universal Studios Florida. This indoor coaster combines thrilling drops with immersive storytelling. The wait times tend to be shorter in the morning as most guests are still at Islands of Adventure for EPA, making it an ideal choice for your third coaster of the day.
Roller Coaster 4: Escape to Gringotts
Continue your adventure in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter by heading to Diagon Alley. Escape from Gringotts offers a unique combination of storytelling and coaster elements. Riding it early allows you to immerse yourself in the magical world of Harry Potter without the long lines that build up later in the day.
Using the single ride lines will greatly reduce your wait times, but you’ll miss the pre-shows. Maybe grab a butterbeer and take the general public line 😉
Roller Coaster 5: Rip Ride Rockit
Rip Ride Rockit is a thrilling roller coaster located at Universal Studios Florida. Known for its vertical lift hill and unique ride experience, it offers riders the chance to choose their own soundtrack for the journey, adding a personalized touch to the adrenaline-pumping adventure. It typically doesn’t open right as the park opens, so save it for 5th.
Be ready to stash your phone in a locker, you do go through metal detection.
Trot back through CityWalk to Islands of Adventure or take the Hogwarts Express
Even though at this point the Hogwarts Express should be up and running, the quickest way over to the Hulk is via CityWalk. Choose which path you have time for!
Roller Coaster 6: The Incredible Hulk Coaster
To round out your quest to conquer six roller coasters, make your way back to Islands of Adventure. The Incredible Hulk Coaster is a fan favorite, known for its intense launch and thrilling inversions. Guests generally are still arriving or heading for the newer roller coasters, so the lines should still be minimal.
Be ready to stash your phone in a locker, you do go through metal detection.
Did you make it to all 6 Roller Coasters?
I had a last minute call at 9:30 that made it so I wasn’t able to ride Hulk, but I sure had a fantastic morning! By following this strategic plan, you too can ride six exhilarating roller coasters at Universal Orlando Resort before the clock strikes 10 AM. Starting early, making the most of Early Park Admission, and utilizing single rider lines will help you maximize your thrills while minimizing your wait times. So, gear up, get ready for heart-pounding action, and make the most of your unforgettable morning at Universal Orlando!
P.S. I know I didn’t include Hippogriff even through it is a roller coaster, but I only ride that when I’m with my kids. This is strategy is for thrill, not for getting jerked around 🥴
