Islands of Adventure in Orlando, Florida

If I had only one day at the park of my choice in Orlando, I might just spend it at Islands of Adventure. Islands of Adventure has spectacular rides and such great variety. Located next to Universal Studios, you’ll need at least a day at this park by itself.

The most thrilling and unique ride at Islands of Adventure is The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man. Put on a pair of 3D glasses, strap yourself into the vehicle, and you’ll be sent through New York City’s streets, where you’ll see, hear, and feel a raging battle between Spider-Man and his most dangerous foes. The visual effects are incredible, the ride’s set encompasses 1.5 acres and includes a 400 foot freefall experience. This is the first ride ever that combines motion, 3D film and live action. You’ll walk away stunned.

If you’re in the mood for rollercoasters, right next door to Spider-Man, you’ll find the Incredible Hulk Coaster. Launching you from 0 to 40 mph in 2 seconds flat, you’ll head 150 feet skyward and reach speeds of up to 67 mph. The Hulk is a thrilling coaster that lasts more than 2 minutes and boasts seven inversions.

Another great coaster experience at Islands of Adventure is Dueling Dragons. This is the world’s first inverted, dueling coasters, and they soar 125 feet in the air and reach speeds of 55 mph. Dueling Dragons is actually two unique coasters. Ride the Fire Dragon, hop off and turn the corner to ride the Ice Dragon. You might want to close your eyes, these dueling coasters come to within 18 inches of each other three times during the ride.

Doctor Doom’s Fearfall launches you 150 feet into the air, then drops you back down faster than gravity itself. Try this ride…before lunch.

Whatever you do, don’t miss the Jurassic Park River Adventure. Dinosaurs are everywhere, and they’re about to escape the park. Keep your eyes open as your boat takes you through the dangerous Jurassic Park, ending with an 85 foot plunge, the longest theme park water descent ever built.

Finally, if Jurassic Park didn’t get you wet enough, head on over to Dudley Do-Right’s Ripshaw Falls. This flume ride will have you plummeting 75 feet, soaking you the entire way down. Not an inch of you will remain dry.

Enjoy Islands of Adventure and look for my review of Universal Studios Theme Park!