When planning a trip to Orlando, Florida, families with teenagers often look for thrilling rides that cater to the adventurous spirit of their young adults. With so many world-renowned theme parks in the area, it can be overwhelming to decide which attractions to prioritize. This article narrows it down for you, providing a list of the best attractions for families with teenagers in Orlando, from the least to the most popular.
#10: The Incredible Hulk Coaster – Universal’s Islands of Adventure
Located at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, The Incredible Hulk Coaster is a must-visit for thrill-seekers. This ride launches you from zero to 40 mph in just two seconds, hurling you into a series of twists, turns, and inversions. The height requirement for this attraction is 54 inches. The ride’s intense speeds and g-forces make it a perfect fit for adrenaline junkies, offering an exhilarating experience as you transform into the Hulk and embark on a mission to save the world.
#9: Expedition Everest – Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Expedition Everest at Disney’s Animal Kingdom is an adventure through the Himalayan mountains that culminates in an encounter with the legendary Yeti. This roller coaster features backward sections, steep drops, and rapid accelerations, making it a thrilling ride for teenagers. The height requirement for this ride is 44 inches. The meticulously detailed queue and storytelling immerse riders in the legend of the Yeti, ensuring an unforgettable experience from start to finish.
#8: Mako – SeaWorld Orlando
SeaWorld Orlando’s Mako is a hypercoaster known for its height, speed, and airtime. Named after one of the fastest sharks in the ocean, Mako reaches speeds up to 73 mph and heights of 200 feet. The height requirement for this ride is 54 inches. With a focus on creating weightless “airtime” moments, Mako offers a smooth yet thrilling experience that keeps teenagers coming back for more. The combination of speed, drops, and airtime makes it a standout coaster in Orlando.
#7: Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith – Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster at Disney’s Hollywood Studios combines high-speed thrills with rock and roll. This indoor coaster catapults riders from 0 to 57 mph in 2.8 seconds, featuring inversions and a rocking soundtrack by Aerosmith. The height requirement is 48 inches. The immersive experience begins with a tour of G-Force Records before embarking on a high-speed journey through the streets of Los Angeles. The combination of music, speed, and special effects makes this coaster a hit with teenagers.
#6: Kraken – SeaWorld Orlando
Kraken at SeaWorld Orlando is a floorless roller coaster that provides an unobstructed view of the track below, adding to the thrill. With a height requirement of 54 inches, this ride features seven inversions, including a dive loop, a zero-g roll, and a cobra roll. Named after the mythical sea creature, Kraken offers an exhilarating experience with smooth transitions and intense drops. The unique floorless design and the array of inversions make it a favorite among teens.
#5: Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure – Universal’s Islands of Adventure
Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, located at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, is a unique motorbike coaster that takes riders through the Forbidden Forest. With a height requirement of 48 inches, this ride features multiple launches, a free-fall drop, and intricate theming. Riders can choose between the motorbike or the sidecar, each offering a different experience. The combination of storytelling, animatronics, and ride mechanics makes it a must-ride for Harry Potter fans and thrill-seekers alike.
#4: Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit – Universal Studios Florida
Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit at Universal Studios Florida allows riders to choose their own soundtrack for the ride, adding a personalized touch to the experience. This coaster features a vertical lift, non-inverting loops, and speeds up to 65 mph. The height requirement is 51 inches. The innovative music selection system, combined with the thrilling elements of the ride, makes it a popular choice for teenagers. The combination of speed, music, and unique track elements ensures an exciting ride every time.
#3: Avatar Flight of Passage – Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Avatar Flight of Passage at Disney’s Animal Kingdom offers a breathtaking flight simulation experience. This ride allows guests to bond with a banshee and soar over the stunning landscapes of Pandora. The height requirement for this attraction is 44 inches. The combination of 3D visuals, motion simulation, and sensory effects creates a highly immersive experience that feels incredibly real. The attention to detail and the sense of flight make it a standout attraction for families with teenagers.
#2: Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey – Universal’s Islands of Adventure
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, located at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, is a groundbreaking ride that combines motion simulation, animatronics, and practical effects. With a height requirement of 48 inches, this ride takes guests through iconic locations from the Harry Potter series, including Hogwarts Castle and the Forbidden Forest. The seamless integration of different ride technologies and the immersive storytelling make this attraction a favorite among teens. The queue itself, winding through the halls of Hogwarts, adds to the overall magical experience.
#1: Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance – Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Topping our list is Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This attraction is a multi-phase experience that blurs the lines between ride and interactive adventure. With a height requirement of 40 inches, the ride combines a trackless vehicle system, motion simulation, and impressive practical effects. Guests become part of the Resistance, navigating through a Star Destroyer and encountering iconic Star Wars characters. The sheer scale, attention to detail, and immersive elements make it a must-ride for families with teenagers. The combination of storytelling, technology, and interactive elements creates an unforgettable experience that truly stands out in Orlando’s theme park offerings.
Orlando, Florida, offers an incredible array of attractions that cater to the adventurous spirit of teenagers. From high-speed coasters to immersive experiences, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. Whether you’re soaring over Pandora on Avatar Flight of Passage or battling the First Order on Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, these rides provide unforgettable memories for families with teenagers. Plan your visit to these top attractions and experience the best that Orlando has to offer.
