Orlando, Florida — A thrilling roller coaster in Orlando has been officially named one of the best roller coasters in the USA for 2025, making waves in the amusement park world and bringing fresh attention to Florida’s theme park capital.
The ranking, released this week by USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, has honored the ride for its speed, design, and overall excitement factor. This recognition has added another feather to Orlando’s already-packed entertainment cap, drawing tourists and thrill-seekers from across the nation.
Which Orlando Roller Coaster Made the List?
The spotlight is on “VelociCoaster” at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, a ride that has been turning heads since its grand opening. Inspired by the Jurassic World franchise, VelociCoaster has been praised for its heart-racing loops, smooth track, and immersive storytelling.
The ride features speeds of up to 70 miles per hour, four intense inversions, and a top hat that sends riders 155 feet in the air. The coaster’s sleek, predator-themed design brings a cinematic experience to life, making it a fan favorite.
To explore more about the coaster, visit Universal Orlando’s official VelociCoaster page.
Why VelociCoaster Stands Out
There are plenty of reasons why VelociCoaster made it to the top 2025 list:
- High-speed thrills: With zero to 50 mph in 2 seconds, this coaster is built for adrenaline lovers.
- Innovative design: Created by Intamin, one of the leading coaster manufacturers in the world.
- Themed storytelling: Riders feel like they’re escaping real-life velociraptors.
- Smooth ride experience: Despite its intensity, VelociCoaster is known for being smooth and comfortable.
According to Orlando Weekly, “It’s not just a roller coaster — it’s a cinematic thrill ride.”
A Big Win for Universal Orlando Resort
This recognition is not just a win for the coaster but a major PR boost for Universal Orlando Resort. It reinforces the park’s status as a destination for top-tier thrill rides and innovative experiences.
Park officials expressed their excitement over the award. “We are incredibly proud that VelociCoaster has been named one of the best in the USA. It’s a testament to our team’s hard work and the vision behind this thrilling ride,” said a spokesperson for Universal Orlando.
The park is already seeing an increase in visitor interest since the announcement was made. Travel platforms like TripAdvisor and Yelp have reported a spike in searches for VelociCoaster.
What Other Coasters Made the 2025 List?
The USA Today 10Best Roller Coasters List for 2025 includes several other big names across the country. These include:
- Steel Vengeance – Cedar Point, Ohio
- Fury 325 – Carowinds, North Carolina
- Iron Gwazi – Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Florida
- Millennium Force – Cedar Point, Ohio
- Maverick – Cedar Point, Ohio
However, VelociCoaster remains the only Orlando coaster to make it into the top five, solidifying the city’s reputation as a roller coaster paradise.
See the full list of award-winning coasters at USA Today’s 10Best site.
What This Means for Orlando Tourism
Orlando is already one of the most visited cities in the United States, largely due to its world-class theme parks. The addition of another nationally recognized roller coaster only adds fuel to the tourism engine.
Travel experts believe this award could boost the number of visitors in summer 2025, especially thrill-seekers looking for their next adventure.
Local businesses, from hotels to restaurants and tour operators, are also preparing for a possible uptick in customers. “This kind of national recognition is excellent for the entire city,” said Amanda Lopez, a tourism consultant in Orlando.
Is VelociCoaster Worth the Hype?
Reviews say yes. Visitors often describe the ride as “absolutely insane” and “the best coaster I’ve ever ridden.” It combines intense action with breathtaking views and detailed scenery, giving both first-timers and coaster veterans something to remember.
Theme park influencers and vloggers have also helped boost the coaster’s fame. YouTube videos showcasing front-row POVs of VelociCoaster rides have received millions of views, and social media platforms are full of rave reviews.
For a video walkthrough and rider review, check out this fan-made VelociCoaster experience on YouTube.
Future Plans for Universal’s Coaster Expansion
Universal has been expanding its ride offerings aggressively. With the success of VelociCoaster, insiders hint at future roller coaster developments for the upcoming Universal Epic Universe theme park, which is set to open in 2025.
This park will include entirely new themed lands and attractions, and many expect it to feature another record-breaking coaster to compete with VelociCoaster’s success.
Learn more about Universal’s upcoming projects at Universal Destinations & Experiences.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Ride Coaster in 2025
If you’re planning a trip in 2025, Orlando should be at the top of your list — especially for roller coaster fans. The VelociCoaster is not just a ride; it’s a complete adventure, combining speed, thrill, and Hollywood-level storytelling.
With its recent accolade as one of the best roller coasters in the USA, it has officially joined the ranks of elite theme park attractions that are worth traveling for.
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