The battle between Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort isn't just about food, shows, or immersive lands. For plenty of visitors, it comes down to one thing: roller coasters.
Disney has built its reputation on storytelling and family-friendly adventures, while Universal has become the destination for bigger thrills. After riding the coasters across both resorts, here's how they stack up from best to worst.
20. Trolls Trollercoaster
A fun introduction for little ones, but the surprisingly high height requirement keeps it from ranking higher.
19. The Barnstormer
Simple, short, and a fantastic first coaster for young children.
18. Flight of the Hippogriff
The Hogwarts setting is wonderful, but the ride ends almost as soon as it begins.
17. Curse of the Werewolf
The spinning cars make every ride different, although the experience feels too brief considering the typical wait.
16. TRON Lightcycle / Run
The launch is outstanding, but the motorcycle seating isn't comfortable for everyone, and the ride is over far too quickly.
15. Mine-Cart Madness
The innovative jump-track illusion is impressive, and the Donkey Kong theme is packed with personality, but it falls short of Orlando's elite coasters.
14. Hiccup's Wing Gliders
A beautifully themed family coaster that perfectly fits the Isle of Berk without relying on extreme thrills.
13. Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
Part dark ride and part coaster, Gringotts succeeds because it tells a fantastic story while still delivering exciting coaster moments.
12. Space Mountain
It's undeniably showing its age, but few attractions in the world carry this much nostalgia. Riding through complete darkness never gets old.
11. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
The recent updates have made this Magic Kingdom classic even more enjoyable. It isn't the fastest coaster, but it's one of the most charming.
10. Slinky Dog Dash
Smooth, fun, and packed with Toy Story charm, this family coaster consistently exceeds expectations.
9. The Incredible Hulk Coaster
Still one of Orlando's most intense rides, Hulk delivers nonstop inversions and one of the best launches anywhere.
8. Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
Disney's signature family coaster combines memorable scenes, swinging vehicles, and a layout that appeals to guests of all ages.
7. Rock ‘n' Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets
The refreshed theme gives new life to one of Disney's most exciting attractions while preserving everything fans already loved about the coaster itself.
6. Revenge of the Mummy
Universal created something timeless with this attraction. Every launch, surprise, and practical effect still works beautifully today.
5. Expedition Everest
A masterpiece of Disney storytelling with an unforgettable backward section and one of the most impressive mountains ever built for a theme park.
4. Stardust Racers
Epic Universe immediately earned bragging rights with this incredible dueling coaster. Watching both trains race together makes every ride feel unique.
3. Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
Universal found the perfect balance between family thrills and immersive storytelling. Every launch adds another layer of excitement.
2. Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind
Cosmic Rewind proves Disney can compete with anyone when it comes to roller coasters. The rotating vehicles, soundtrack, and smooth ride experience make it Disney's undisputed coaster champion.
1. Jurassic World VelociCoaster
Universal takes the crown. VelociCoaster delivers relentless thrills from start to finish, pairing world-class airtime with flawless pacing and spectacular Jurassic World theming. Simply put, nothing else in Orlando matches it.
Who Wins?
If you're looking for the biggest thrills, Universal comes out on top. VelociCoaster, Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, Stardust Racers, Revenge of the Mummy, and Hulk give the resort an incredible lineup for coaster enthusiasts.
Disney, however, shines with attractions that blend storytelling and accessibility. Cosmic Rewind, Expedition Everest, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, and Slinky Dog Dash prove you don't need record-breaking speeds to create unforgettable rides.
The good news is you don't really have to choose. Orlando offers the best of both worlds, making it one of the greatest roller coaster destinations anywhere.
