Your Guide to Jurassic Park at Universal Orlando Resort

Universal’s Islands of Adventure is home to Jurassic Park. It’s a thrilling and immersive tropical paradise filled with dinosaurs. From exciting rides to interactive experiences, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this prehistoric world. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the thrilling attractions such as the brand new Jurassic World Velocicoaster and places to eat like the awesome Thunder Falls Terrace.  It’s one my favourite parts of Islands of Adventure.

Where is Jurassic Park at Universal Orlando Resort?

If you’re looking for a thrilling and scenic route to Jurassic Park, the western route through Toon Lagoon and Skull Island is the perfect choice. Continue your journey through Skull Island, where you’ll encounter giant prehistoric creatures and stunning waterfalls. The sheer size and beauty of these attractions will leave you in awe. This route is ideal for those who want to immerse themselves in the world of cartoons and get up close with the dinosaurs.

If you’re seeking a more adventurous and adrenaline-pumping way to get to Jurassic Park, the eastern route is the way to go. This route begins with a bridge shortcut that takes you straight to Velocicoaster.

Wizarding World of Harry Potter fans or those who simply love the magical ambiance, the bridge from Hogsmeade is a must-try route. As you cross the bridge, you’ll be transported to the world of wizardry and witchcraft.

Jurassic Park Ride Guide

Located on the shores of the Islands of Adventure lagoon, you can experience the worlds of the Jurassic Park and Jurassic World films with some amazing attractions.

Jurassic Park River Adventure – Awesome thrills

Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure? Hop on a river raft and embark on the Jurassic Park River Adventure! This thrilling boat ride will take you on an exciting journey through the park’s herbivore dinosaurs, giving you the chance to see and up close and personal with these magnificent creatures.

As you sail along in your raft, you’ll find yourself surrounded by towering herbivorous dinosaurs, peacefully grazing on the lush vegetation around the watering hole. It’s a truly awe-inspiring sight to behold. 

But hold on tight, because the real excitement is about to begin. Get ready for a heart-pounding adrenaline rush as you plunge down a 1.5 million-gallon water descent. The rush of water against your face, the thundering sound of the waterfall, and the sheer thrill of the moment will leave you breathless.

And that’s not all! Brace yourself for an exhilarating 85-foot plunge. Feel the adrenaline coursing through your veins as you descend down the steep drop, the wind rushing past your ears. It’s the kind of thrill that will make your heart race and leave you screaming for more.

Even though this ride is over 20 years old now, it’s still one of my favourites in the parks. Fancy a chat about your Universal Orlando Holiday?

Top Tip: Head here when the park is busy and there are long rides for some of the newer rides.  Also, aim to do this earlier in the day or just after Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges so you have the rest of the day to dry off.

Jurassic World Velocicoaster – Latest Attraction

The latest attraction in the Jurassic Park section is the Jurassic World Velocicoaster, Universal’s fastest rollercoaster.  With speeds reaching up to 70 miles per hour, this attraction will definitely get your heart racing as you try and escape the Velociraptors. 

The ride starts with a heart-racing launch, propelling you forward with incredible force. As you soar through the air, be prepared for a series of exhilarating twists and inversions that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

One of the highlights of this ride is the top hat element. As you reach the pinnacle of the ride, you’ll experience an intense moment of weightlessness before plummeting back down to earth.  Amazing view, but don’t do this after lunch!

As you prepare to ride the Jurassic World Velocioaster, you may wonder what to do with your loose items. Don’t worry, lockers are available for you to store your belongings. These lockers are conveniently located near the entrance, so you can easily secure your items before heading off on the wild ride.

Before hopping in line, it’s a good idea to check for the wait time. This popular attraction can have a long queue, especially during peak times.

Top Tip: try riding it during early park admission or saving it for later if Hagrid’s is available.  The ride also feels different at night too.

Raptor Encounter

This could actually be more frightening than the rollercoasters!  Experience the ultimate thrill at the Raptor Encounter, where you can get up close and personal with some of the most fearsome creatures to ever walk the planet – Blue The Velociraptor from the Jurassic World films! 

The Raptor enclosure is not just a passive viewing experience, but an interactive adventure. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about the behaviours and characteristics of raptors from knowledgeable experts who will guide you through the encounter. Discover fascinating facts about these ancient predators and gain a deeper appreciation for their place in the natural world.

It’s a very different character meet and greets compared to seeing Mickey at Walt Disney World!

Camp Jurassic – Let Your Imagination Run Wild

Camp Jurassic is a multi-level kids playground where adventure awaits! This exciting playground is designed to ignite the imaginations of young explorers, offering a plethora of thrilling activities that will keep them entertained for hours on end.

Camp Jurassic offers water cannons that will turn any ordinary playtime into an epic water battle. Kids can team up with their friends or engage in friendly competition as they unleash streams of water and cool off on a hot day.

Children can navigate their way through along rope bridges, climbing nets mysterious caverns, discovering hidden treasures and feeling a sense of excitement and discovery.  

Top Tip: go and grab a drink, find a seat and let the kids go wild

Pteranodon Flyers – High-flying fun for kids

Pteranodon Flyers is a suspended family coaster designed specifically for little ones. This thrilling ride offers an unforgettable experience for both kids and adults alike.

As you strap into your seats and take off, you’ll instantly be transported to the prehistoric world of Jurassic Park. The coaster takes you soaring through the air, providing breath-taking views of the park’s iconic landscapes and attractions. It’s an adventure that will leave everyone in awe.

One of the best things about Pteranodon Flyers is that it’s suitable for the whole family to enjoy together. Whether you’re a parent or a grandparent accompanying your little ones, this ride guarantees a memorable experience for everyone. 

With its unique suspended design, Pteranodon Flyers provides a different perspective on the park. Instead of sitting on a traditional roller coaster track, the seats are suspended from above, giving you a feeling of flying through the air on the wings of a Pteranodon. It’s an exhilarating sensation that adds an extra layer of adventure to the experience.

Top Tip: this ride can go down if the weather isn’t great in the Orlando area

Jurassic Park Discovery Center

Modelled after the welcome center from the original Jurassic Park movie at Isla Nublar, this the Jurassic Park Discovery Center offers a unique and interactive experience for visitors of all ages.

One of the highlights of the Jurassic Park Discovery Center is its interactive play center features. Kids and adults alike can enjoy hands-on activities and games that allow them to learn about dinosaurs in a fun and engaging way. From excavating fossils to controlling a dinosaur puppet, there are plenty of opportunities for visitors to immerse themselves in the world of paleontology.

Another exciting aspect of the Discovery Center is the chance to capture unforgettable memories with life-sized dinosaurs. Take a photo next to a towering T-Rex or stand next to a gentle Brachiosaurus for an up-close encounter that will leave you in awe.

It’s a great change of pace compared to the high-speed Velocicoaster and you can escape from the Orlando sun for a while too.

Guide to Jurassic Park Dining

There are plenty of places to eat and grab a snack at Jurassic Park. 

Burger Digs

If you’re in the mood for a classic burger, Burger Digs is a good option. Their no-frills, no-nonsense approach results in a burger that satisfies all your cravings. The perfectly toasted bun, the juicy patty, and the melted cheese come together to create a delightful explosion of flavors.

Not a fan of beef? No worries! Burger Digs also offers chicken and vegetarian options. Whether you’re a carnivore or a herbivore, you’ll find something to enjoy at this burger joint.

It’s not my first choice of places to eat in Jurassic Park, but it’s a decent burger that’s pretty good value.

Thunder Falls Terrace

So good it even made our top 5 restaurants at Islands of Adventure.  When it’s time to refuel, head over to Thunder Falls Terrace. This quick-service restaurant specialises in delicious barbecue cuisine and offers fantastic views of the River Adventure splash zone. 

On the menu are some barbecue classics, such as smoky ribs, tender brisket, and juicy pulled pork. Their barbecue sauces are the perfect accompaniment, with options ranging from tangy and sweet to spicy and bold. Pair your meal with classic sides like mac and cheese, cornbread, or coleslaw for a complete dining experience.

If you’re looking for lighter options, choose from a selection of fresh salads bursting with flavours and topped with your choice of protein. The vegetarian and vegan options are equally satisfying, offering a variety of grilled vegetables, plant-based proteins, and tasty dressings.

Pizza Predattoria

If you’re craving pizza, look no further than Pizza Predattoria. This dining option offers a variety of delicious pizza options, a mouth-watering meatball sub, and a decadent brookie (a chocolate chip cookie filled brownie). It’s the perfect place to satisfy your hunger and indulge in some tasty treats.

When it comes to pizza, Pizza Predattoria knows how to deliver. From classic favourites like Margherita and Pepperoni to unique creations like BBQ Chicken and Pesto Veggie, there’s something for everyone’s taste buds.

Not in the mood for pizza? No problem! Pizza Predattoria also offers a mouth-watering meatball sub.   And let’s not forget about the brookie. This decadent dessert is a combination of a chewy chocolate chip cookie and a rich brownie. With each bite, you’ll experience the perfect balance of sweetness and indulgence. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a scoop of creamy ice cream, the brookie is a treat that will satisfy any sweet tooth.

The Dino Store

Hey, it wouldn’t be a theme park without a gift shop.  This store offers a wide selection of dinosaur collectible toys, keychains, mugs, clothing, fossil replicas and all things Jurassic Park themed.

But the highlight of The Dino Store is undoubtedly its collection of fossil replicas. These meticulously crafted replicas allow you to take home a piece of history. Imagine owning a trilobite fossil or a T-rex tooth replica – it’s like having your very own piece of Jurassic Park!

Where Can I Buy Universal Orlando Theme Park Tickets?

As one of Universal Orlando’s trusted travel partners, we can include the 3 parks for the price of 2 Universal Orlando tickets as part of your Orlando holiday package.  Just chat with one of the team to start planning your Universal adventure.

Where Can I Stay To Visit Jurassic World at Universal Orlando?

Check out the blog our Orlando Guru’s have put together with their 6 best places to stay for your trip to Universal Orlando.

So Much Fun At Jurassic Park

Jurassic Park at Universal’s Islands of Adventure offers a thrilling and immersive experience for dinosaur enthusiasts of all ages. The park is a haven for adventure seekers, providing a wide range of attractions and activities that will leave visitors in awe.

One of my highlights of Jurassic Park is the Velocicoaster. For those who prefer a more interactive experience, the Raptor Encounter is a must-visit attraction. Get up close and personal with these incredible creatures as you have the opportunity to meet and interact with life-sized raptors.

After all the excitement, you’ll need to refuel. Thunder Falls Terrace is the perfect place to grab a bite to eat. With a variety of delicious options, including grilled items, burgers, and salads, there’s something to satisfy every appetite. And for those craving a slice of pizza, Pizza Predattoria is the place to go. Enjoy a hot, fresh slice while taking in the sights and sounds of Jurassic Park.

With its thrilling rides, interactive attractions, and delicious dining options, Jurassic Park at Universal’s Islands of Adventure is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves dinosaurs. Whether you’re a fan of the movies or simply want to experience the excitement of being in a prehistoric world, this park has something for everyone.

Get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure that will transport you back in time to the world of Jurassic Park!

Call Me Please