Velocicoaster is Universal's all-new Jurassic World roller coaster that can be seen from just moments after stepping within its Islands of Adventure theme park. Its tower, twisting track is intimidating from all the park's angles, but what is it really like? Would you enjoy it, and how can you even ride?
We've ridden it, and we have all the details.
How can you ride?
Though the ride's grand opening is June 10, 2021, it is already running in a soft-opening format. All that means is nothing is official yet, so it can be closed for any reason, and finer details regarding the ride's management can change before then. However, there is no virtual pass like a lot of theme parks are turning to now for their most coveted attractions. Instead, guests have to hop in the standard line and wait in-person at the attraction.
Even with longer wait times, I have found the queue to be engaging. Without spoiling the surprises, incredible views and visual effects masterfully mix with some of the park's most impressive animatronics yet, making the wait fly by.
You also keep all of your belongings for most of the wait, as the lockers are within the queue, just before its last stretch. The lockers are double-sided too, eliminating the need for you to circle back in line to get your belongings, and instead having you get them on the opposite side of the lockers near the ride's exit. You will pass through metal detectors before boarding, so bring nothing with you but your ticket to access the free lockers.
Should you ride?
Be aware: Velocicoaster is an intense ride, reaching up to 70 mph, pitching guests upside-down and featuring sharp turns. For any fans of the Incredible Hulk Coaster or even the less-intense Rock 'n' Roller Coaster® Starring Aerosmith, this should be right up their alley. Otherwise, it gets more complicated.
The most intimidating feature of Velocicoaster, at a glance, is its climbing slope and following drop, but in practice it happens so quickly and at such a unique angle that those who are afraid of heights or are averse to big drops should not shy away from the attraction because of it. Both the angle of the climb preceding the drop and the turns the track takes after the drop dampen any significant impact you might normally feel on a traditional coaster. If the drop is your only reservation, then my advice is to absolutely ride. The most intense moment on the ride comes in the form of a barrel roll near then end, one of a number of times the ride turns guests upside-down.
The coaster does provide rides with a significant amount of airtime. The farther back you are, the more time you'll spend disconnected from your seat. Those who are nervous may want to request a seat closer to the front. It is as safe as can be though, as an overhead harness presses down on guests' laps to secure them in place for the attraction. Though your feet likely will not touch, there is a bottom to the ride vehicle, so guests who are anxious over having their feet hang above open air need not worry here.
It is also the smoothest attraction I have ever been on, with some moments so flawlessly constructed that it is almost possible to forget you are riding in a vehicle and on a track. Some moments quite literally float along, so the ride likely will not be an irritant to those who cannot withstand rougher attractions. Do be warned that this does not bypass the fact that it is arguably Universal's most intense ride, so those who have lingering injuries should still practice caution.
Is it worth the wait?
In every aspect: yes.
Velocicoaster is my new favorite Orlando attraction, and is certainly worth almost whatever time the wait displays. While the queue is engaging along the way, this lengthy rollercoaster is packed with so many surprises and thrills that it begs to be ridden by anyone willing to give it an attempt.
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