Are you looking for roller coasters at Orlando theme parks?

There are plenty of fun places to enjoy in this Florida city.

But if you’re a thrill seeker, you will want to visit the theme parks with the best roller coasters.

We’ve had a look at all the major theme parks, exciting rides within each attraction and the closest hotels so you know where to stay for the best experience.

You can buy good value tickets at Orlandoattractions.com, but before you decide where to go, keep reading to discover the 8 best Orlando theme parks with roller coasters.

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1. SeaWorld Orlando

Do you love roller coasters as well as marine animals?

Then SeaWorld Orlando is for you!

This theme park meets marine zoological park is an entertainment complex that combines three parks into one.

SeaWorld is located nearby both Discovery Cove and Aquatica, offering visitors a wide range of thrilling rides and animal attractions.

SeaWorld Orlando is also one of the most visited theme parks in the United States.

Here, you can expect three different roller coasters (the Kraken, Mako, and Manta).

The Ice Breaker is the newest addition to the park, set to open in 2020, and it will have the steepest drop of any roller coaster in Florida.

  • Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday 9am-6pm; Friday & Sunday 9am-8pm; Saturday 9am-9pm
  • Address: 7007 Sea World Dr, Orlando, FL 32821, United States

Official site

Stay at SpringHill Suites by Marriott Orlando

If you plan on visiting SeaWorld Orlando, then the SpringHill Suites by Marriott Orlando is a great base.

This 3-star hotel borders SeaWorld has tons of amenities you will love including a Shamu-themed outdoor pool and a breakfast room.

SpringHill Suites is made up of spacious rooms, each featuring flat screen TVs and complete kitchen for families who prefer to cook. 

They are also fitted with desks, a sitting area, and separate sinks and showers.

Beyond SeaWorld, the SpringHill Sites by Marriott Orlando is only a 10 minute drive from Walt Disney World and Universal Studios.

  • Guest Rating: 9.2
  • Star Rating: 3 stars
  • Address: 10801 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32821, United States 

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2. Universal Studios Florida

Universal Studios Florida is a must while visiting Orlando.

Here, you will find plenty of rides for people of all ages based on your favourite movies and television shows.

The Simpsons, Fast and Furious, E.T., Transformers, The Mummy, Shrek, and many more all have rides dedicated to them.

And of course, Universal Studios is also home to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!

In terms of roller coasters, be sure to check out The Mummy’s indoor roller coaster that will have you in partial darkness.

There is also the kid-friendly Woody Woodpecker’s Nuthouse Coaster, and the Hollywood Rip Ride Rocket for brave visitors.

  • Opening Hours: Generally 9am-9pm daily. Check their calendar for exact dates.
  • Address: 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819, United States

Official site

Stay at Universal’s Hard Rock Hotel

Stay right in the centre of the action at Universals’s Hard Rock Hotel.

Located within the park’s bounds, this 4-star hotel is perfect for people who plan to visit Universal Studios and it’s sister park, the Islands of Adventure.

It is also only a 5 minute walk from CityWalk, the nightlife and restaurant area of Universal.

Rooms feature free WiFi, flat screen TVs, and iPod docking stations.

Some even have rock music-themed decor.

But best of all, a stay at this hotel includes early park admission (one hour earlier than the general public), as well as skip-the-line privileges.

  • Guest Rating: 9.0
  • Star Rating: 4 stars
  • Address: 5800 Universal Boulevard, Orlando, FL 32819, United States 

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3. Universal’s Islands of Adventure

Universal’s Islands of Adventure is the sister park to Universal Studios, however, it definitely has more thrilling roller coaster options.

This park has been rated the #1 amusement park in the world for the last 5 consecutive years.

And when you enter the park, you will know why, as you’ll get to experience everything from superheroes to dinosaurs to wizards!

From the iconic Jurassic Park River Adventure to the recently opened Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, there are plenty of roller coasters for all the adrenaline junkies out there.

Of course, you also can’t miss the Incredible Hulk Coaster, based on Marvel’s The Hulk.

  • Opening Hours: Generally 9am-9pm daily. Check their calendar for exact dates.
  • Address: Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819, United States

Official site

Stay at Universal’s Loews Royal Pacific Resort

For an upscale and conveniently located hotel option, look no further than Universal’s Lowes Royal Pacific Resort.

This resort features sleek and contemporary rooms that come with flat screen TVs, iPhone docking stations, and Keurig coffee machines.

There is also a rental car desk, a business centre, and a fitness centre on-site.

In addition, guests are invited to enjoy the volleyball court, two hot tubs, and transfer service that transports you to the Universal theme parks.

There are six restaurants on the property and 24-hour room service.

Lastly, a stay at this hotel will get you early park admission into Universal and skip-the-line passes.

  • Guest Rating: 9.1
  • Star Rating: 4 stars
  • Address: 6300 Hollywood Way, Orlando, FL 32819, United States

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4. Disney’s Magic Kingdom Theme Park

Another must-visit theme park in Orlando is none other than Disney’s Magic Kingdom.

This is perhaps the most famous theme park in the world.

Even to this day, it boasts plenty of roller coasters for the whole family to enjoy.

We’re talking about Space Mountain, the Barnstormer, and the Seven Dwarves Mine Train. 

In addition to these rides, if you have young ones with you, then you have to stay for the daily Magic Kingdom Parade.

Be sure to also check out the newly opened Mickey and Minnie-themed ride (the park’s first-ever if you can believe that!).

  • Opening Hours: Daily 9am-10pm
  • Address: Lake Buena Vista, FL 32836, United States

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Stay at Four Seasons Resort Orlando

Luxury awaits at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando.

This 5-star property is the perfect hotel for families in Orlando.

Not only is it located right next to Walt Disney World, but it is chock full of lavish amenities.

The resort has its own spa, golf course, and Spanish-style steakhouse (from which the park’s daily fireworks display can be seen).

There is also free WiFi, a complimentary transfer service to the theme parks, and offers guests fast pass benefits and early hours admission into Disney World.

Further, there is a Disney Character Breakfast Bar available four days of the week, as well as a fitness centre with golfing and tennis.

  • Guest Rating: 9.2
  • Star Rating: 5 stars
  • Address: 10100 Dream Tree Boulevard, Orlando, FL 32836, United States

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5. Hollywood Studios

Hollywood Studios is another Disney World Park, however, this one takes inspiration from the Hollywood Golden Age.

Film, television, music, and theatre reign supreme here.

Today, the park is made up of seven themed areas, either inspired by a part of Los Angeles or a specific Disney movie.

You will find both Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Sunset Boulevard, and Toy Story Land in Hollywood Studios.

Popular rides include The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, the outdoor Slinky Dog Dash roller coaster, and Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance.

The best roller coaster is definitely the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster featuring the music of Aerosmith in the Sunset Boulevard section.

  • Opening Hours: Daily 8am-8:30pm
  • Address: 351 S Studio Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830, United States

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Stay at Walt Disney World Swan

Walt Disney World Swan is one of the best hotels in Orlando.

This 4-star property is located in the centre of Walt Disney World Resort. 

Rooms are clean and modern, with free WiFi, 42-inch flat screen TVs, refrigerators, and balconies overlooking the resort.

Amenities that come with staying in the Walt Disney World Resort complex include access to 5 outdoor pools, 17 restaurants and lounges, fast passes, and a transfer service to the parks.

On the specific Disney World Swan hotel property, you will also find two health clubs four hot tubs, and water sport rentals.

Further, the shops and restaurants at Disney Springs are only 10 minutes by car.

  • Guest Rating: 8.7
  • Star Rating: 4 stars
  • Address: 1200 Epcot Resorts Boulevard, Lake Buena Vista, Orlando, FL 32830, United States 

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6. Animal Kingdom

Disney’s Animal Kingdom is one of the most recognisable parks in the world.

This theme park is dedicated to animal conservation and education, as well as the natural environment.

How it differs from the other Disney World parks is that in addition to rides, it also features a number of live animal exhibits.

Due to this, the park is located on the far edge of the complex, separate from the others.

Animal Kingdom is divided up into sections that include Discovery Island, Pandora, Africa, Asia, and Dinoland U.S.A.

Popular roller coasters here include Expedition Everest: Legend of the Forbidden Mountain, and Primeval Wheel, a Wild Mouse spinning coaster.

  • Opening Hours: Daily 9am-8pm
  • Address: 2901 Osceola Pkwy, Orlando, FL 32830, United States

Official site

Stay at Margaritaville Resort Orlando

For a tropical escape from reality, stay at the Margaritaville Resort Orlando.

This Key West-themed hotel has something for people of all ages.

Not only will you love the beach-inspired room decor, but you will appreciate the amenities.

Room amenities include flat screen TVs, coffee makers, sitting areas, and pool views.

Meanwhile, the hotel offers guests access to a fitness centre, the Parakeet Kid’s Club, concierge service, a sand-covered beach, and zero-entry pool.

There are also dining and shopping options on-site. 

Lastly, not only is the Margaritaville Resort Orlando near Animal Kingdom, it’s also located nearby SeaWorld Orlando and Universal Orlando.

  • Guest Rating: 8.8
  • Star Rating: 4 stars
  • Address: 8118 U.S. 192, Celebration, Orlando, FL 34747, United States

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7. Fun Spot America Orlando

An all-American theme park experience awaits at Fun Spot America Orlando.

This local chain of small theme parks has a location right in Orlando.

Although more modest in size compared to Universal or Disney World, Fun Spot America has rides for the whole family.

From arcade games to fast roller coasters, there is plenty of fun to be had here.

Park highlights include the Hurricane Roller Coaster that will have you five storeys in the air.

There is also the White Lightening, Orlando’s only wooden roller coaster.

Finally, don’t miss out on the iconic Ferris Wheel or the 80-foot drop on the Mine Blower.

  • Opening Hours: Daily 10am-12am
  • Address: 5700 Fun Spot Way, Orlando, FL 32819, United States

Official site

Stay at Orlando International Resort Club

Orlando International Resort Club is only a stone’s throw away from Fun Spot America Orlando, which makes it a great overnight stay option.

Beyond the location, this 3-star hotel also has an outdoor pool, tennis and basketball courts, and furnished villas.

Villas come with private patios, spacious living areas, fully equipped kitchens, a washer/dryer, and two full bathrooms.

Free WiFi, multiple televisions, and CD/DVD players are also available to guests.

You’ll have free access to the on-site gym, shuffleboard court, children’s playground, and barbecue and picnic area.

Lastly, the hotel is only a short drive from Universal Studios and the Prime Outlets Mall Orlando.

  • Guest Rating: 9.4
  • Star Rating: 3 stars
  • Address: 5353 Del Verde Way, Orlando, FL 32819, United States

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8. Legoland Florida

Calling all Lego lovers!

Legoland Florida opened in 2011 and is designed with children in mind.

There are over 50 rides, shows, and attractions here, as well as a botanical gardens and Lego-themed water park.

The park is divided up into sections, one of which is Miniland USA, where you will find miniature Lego recreations of some of the most famous buildings in US history.

For roller coaster thrills, check out The Dragon Steel in Lego Kingdoms, or the Coastersaurus wooden roller coaster. 

One of the newest sections of the park is The Lego Movie World that has three new rides that all opened in March 2019.

  • Opening Hours: Check calendar for exact opening hours
  • Address: One LEGOLAND Way, Winter Haven, FL 33884 

Official site

Stay at LEGOLAND® Florida Resort

If you plan on visiting Legoland Florida, then we highly recommend staying at the Legoland Florida Resort.

This resort opened in 2015 and is made up of 166 rooms in 83 bungalows, each designed to resemble giant Lego sets.

The resort is also only 130 steps from the amusement park, which it a majorly convenient place to stay.

Amenities include a complimentary breakfast buffet, scheduled shuttle service to Legoland, and free WiFi and parking.

Rooms are the biggest draw, with many featuring a treasure hunt, LEGO models, and a separate children’s sleeping area.

In addition, all rooms are either pirate, kingdom, or adventure-themed.

  • Guest Rating: 8.8
  • Star Rating: 4 stars
  • Address: 1 Legoland Way, Winter Haven, FL 33884, United States

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We hope this list has inspired your upcoming trip to Orlando.

If you’re a thrill-seeker, rest assured that there are plenty of roller coasters to be ridden at the exciting theme parks covered above.

Make sure you plan bookings early as it can get crowded.

Also read:

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Summary

Orlando Theme ParksBest Hotel Nearby
SeaWorld OrlandoSpringHill Suites by Marriott Orlando
Universal Studios FloridaUniversal’s Hard Rock Hotel
Universal’s Islands of AdventureUniversal’s Loews Royal Pacific Resort
Disney’s Magic Kingdom Theme ParkFour Seasons Resort Orlando
Hollywood StudiosWalt Disney World Swan
Animal KingdomMargaritaville Resort Orlando
Fun Spot America OrlandoOrlando International Resort Club
Legoland FloridaLEGOLAND® Florida Resort

For all new cities, I go overboard on my itinerary, just to see every major attraction. Countries I've visited include New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, China, Cambodia, Japan and Thailand. Mostly Asian countries. Next target - Europe!