Blog

Sep 02, 2023

WORST Universal Orlando and Islands of Adventure Rides for Plus Sized Guests

Posted by: Steven Wilk August 31, 2023 Walt Disney World Resort is famous for being accommodating to virtually all guests. Regardless of someone’s size or disability, Disney seems to be always willing

Posted by: Steven Wilk August 31, 2023

Walt Disney World Resort is famous for being accommodating to virtually all guests. Regardless of someone’s size or disability, Disney seems to be always willing to go the extra mile to ensure every guest has a magical experience. But that’s not quite the case when it comes to Universal Studios Orlando Resort.

RELATED: Dangerous Dolls Have Made Their Way to Cabana Bay Beach Resort at Universal Orlando

Although many rides provide test seats for guests to know what the seats/vehicles are like, that doesn’t always answer the question of whether or not they will be comfortable during the ride. So, which ones are the worst for plus-sized individuals? Let’s explore these major attractions at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure.

Credit: Universal

This Universal Studios thrill ride is one of the most intense attractions at the park. Comparable to Revenge of the Mummy, it is an indoor roller coaster-type ride. But when it comes to the seat and restraints, it is unique in that it has BOTH a lap bar and a shin guard. Although this may make for a safer ride, it isn’t the most comfortable for bigger or taller guests. There are modified seats in the back row of each cart that provide a little more room. But it’s still worth exploring the test seat outside the attraction before waiting in the long queue (lots of walking and stairs).

Credit: Universal

Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit has posed many issues for plus-sized riders at Universal Studios Orlando. However, much of the problem is not with the seats but the restraints. They come across the body and have a tight gap that can be hard to secure. Like other attractions, it does offer modified seats in specific rows but know that it is one of the rougher coasters at the theme park. So, if you aren’t comfortable when you leave the station, it will get much worse throughout your ride.

RELATED: What Disney (and Universal) Can Learn From SeaWorld…

Credit: Universal

As one of the newest attractions at the theme park resort, it’s on many people’s must-do lists. However, when it comes to plus-sized guests, it can be uncomfortable. Although it does provide riders with legroom, the restraint is an over-the-head lap bar. If you fit without any problems, just be aware that the ride is an intense, thrilling coaster with launches, drops, and many inversions.

Credit: Universal

Another one of the theme park resorts’ newest attractions, this too, is on many must-do lists. The coaster train is unique because it offers two different types of seats – the motorbike and the sidecar. However, the motorbike seat has tight restraints across the legs that can be uncomfortable, while the sidecar can be a tight fit for larger riders.

RELATED: Universal Orlando Makes Major Changes Due to Hurricane

Credit: Universal

Some consider this water flume one of the most uncomfortable rides at Universal Orlando Resort. Taller guests may struggle to comfortably fit their legs in the small spaces provided in the boats. This is even more of an issue if your or a plus-side companion has a problem with limited mobility (and because it’s a water ride, things will be slippery). Also, it can be just as challenging to get out of the flume boat as it is to get in.

RELATED: Celebrate Harry Potter’;s Birthday…at Disney World

Credit: Universal

The original Harry Potter ride at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, can also provide a challenge for larger park guests. Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey has an overhead restraight that can be tight depending on the chest and waist size of the rider. Although it has received updates to accommodate larger guests and an optional stationary platform for loading/unloading, it may still be a struggle.

Credit: Universal

Over recent years, Universal Studios has gotten a bad reputation for not being accommodating to larger guests. But considering two of the newest attractions are on this list implies that Universal may not be looking to change that anytime soon.

RELATED: Dueling Dragons Returning to Universal Orlando

In the meantime, many Walt Disney World Resort attractions accommodate various guests, no matter their size or stature.