Florida is a one-of-a-kind holiday, filled with famous theme parks that bring your favourite movies to life. Also known as the Sunshine State, it’s the home to the magical Walt Disney World and legendary Universal Studios.
Full of world firsts, you’ll find the biggest and wildest attractions on your doorstep. And with exclusive and exciting experiences arriving yearly, we’ve listed all of Orlando’s newest adventures below.
1. Ray Rush – SeaWorld
Twist and turn down the new family waterslide in Aquatica. Water jets will launch your raft 33 feet per second and send you speeding through a colossal water sphere as you swoop down different tunnels. Dive into giant manta wings, and with three different ways to slide, you won’t find a water ride quite like it.
At nearly 60 feet tall, this wet and wild attraction will debut in 2018, and is set to make a splash in SeaWorld.
2. The Great Lego Race – LEGOLAND
A virtual reality ride like no other, LEGOLAND welcomes the great Lego Race. Transforming the existing Project X rollercoaster into an adrenaline-pumping experience, your tiny tots take the driver’s seat.
Wearing a snazzy virtual reality headset, you can choose from Trendsetter to Wizard and many other famous characters. Now, it’s time to pick a winning vehicle like the rocket-powered surfboard or the scooter fuelled by espresso.
Then on your marks, get set, go! Line up ready to race as hi-tech features sync with the rollercoaster sending you through twists, turns, drops and climbs – surprises only LEGOLAND can create.
The action will come at you from all angles, up, down, forwards, backwards and everything in between.
3. Fast & Furious: Super Charge – Universal Studios
Scheduled to open in spring 2018, Universal Orlando will take guests on an action-packed ride. Join the Fast and Furious family on a virtual line experience, where you’ll join Dom, Letty, and the gang on high-octane adventures.
Based on the franchise, this 3D ride will have you racing through the streets in your favourite Fast and Furious car. Just like the real thing, you’ll feel every accelerated turn – making this attraction a must-ride during your time at Universal Studios.
4. Infinity Falls – SeaWorld
Breaking boundaries once again, SeaWorld welcomes the new river rapid ride Infinity Falls for 2018. As the first river rapid with a 40 foot high drop, it’s pretty impressive too. You and the whole family can head on a wet adventure through the rainforest, twisting and turning under cascading waterfalls.
You’ll be in the midst of class IV white-water rapids, then the vertical lift will take your raft to the top of the drop and you’ll plunge into the river below – it’s safe to say you’ll get wet.
5. Super Nintendo World – Universal Studios
Getting ready to hit Universal Studios in 2020 is Super Nintendo World, where you can step into the world of Mario. This digital world is set to include both Mario Kart and Donkey Kong rides much like its counterpart in Universal Studio Japan.
If it’s anything like the other, Nintendo World will feature a coaster with a dual track system which means the vehicles will jump, much like the mine cars in the Donkey Kong game. It’s also rumoured that there will be a Yoshi themed area.
Nintendo World Orlando is set to be bigger and better than any other, with exclusive experiences and rides yet to be revealed.
6. Christmas in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Island of Adventure
Could you imagine anything more magical than Christmas in the world of Harry Potter – sipping hot Butterbeer whilst walking down Diagon Alley, for many it’s a dream come true!
This state-of-the-art, projection mapping night-time phenomenon will turn Hogwarts into a Christmas wonderland, bringing all your favourite festive movie moments to life. Prepare to be mesmerised by the Banshees and Frog Choir, whilst feasting on seasonal treats.
New to Universal this year, be the first to experience the magic.
7. Wizarding World dark ride – Island of Adventure
Saying goodbye to the beloved Dragon Challenge, and hello to one of the most highly-themed rollercoaster experiences created. Opening in 2019, this Harry Potter ride will cast a spell over you.
Encounter all your favourite characters and creatures with a whole new level of storytelling, while you twist and turn at high speeds. The Universal Creative team and Warner Bros. have joined forces to create a ride like nothing else out there
8. Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon – Universal Studios
Recently released, it’s your turn to be part of The Tonight Show. Join Jimmy Fallon on a virtual reality extravaganza through, below and above New York. Have fun in Studio 6B, where performances will be held by the Ragtime Gals and an appearance from Hashtag the Panda, a Tonight Show regular.
Expect to be challenged to a race, using motion simulator technology, 3D, and point-of-view media sending you speeding through Manhattan – and to top it all off, there’s no queue!
Trying to eliminate waiting for rides, guests need to make a reservation using the app or kiosks next to the attraction. Of course, you can purchase a Universal Express Pass which means you automatically gain immediate entry.
9. SKYPLEX – International Drive
This is one to get your adrenaline pumping – set to break world records, International Drive entertainment complex takes thrill to a whole new level. SKYPLEX will mimic a skyscraper and at 570 feet tall, it will be the world’s highest rollercoaster.
This structure will also be the first ‘Polercoaster’, which means the track will weave in and around the tower. If you don’t fancy taking the plunge, there’s an observation deck on top with a restaurant and lounge area where you can watch brave riders.
A second ride called Skyfall will also sit on the skyscraper, and will be the world’s tallest drop ride. Rising up to 460 feet and descending at 90 miles an hour, this is certainly one for thrill-seekers.
10. Volcano Bay – Universal Studios
If you haven’t had chance to check out the impressive new waterpark in Universal, you’re missing out on a real treat.
Built around a tropical island theme park, visitors can enjoy the TaAwa, a river ride that takes you down white-water rapids on tubes that pulse through the volcano. Ko’okiri Body Plunge is another popular attraction, mainly for its 70-degree fall through a drop door.
For those who prefer soaking up the sensational Florida sun, you can do just that at Waturi Beach.
With all these exciting adventures waiting for you, grab yourself a Florida holiday package and start planning the trip of a lifetime.