As the latest entry in the Orlando game of one-upmanship, Islands of Adventure stakes its claim as the leader in state-of-the-art, edge-of-your-seat thrill rides. Though there are plenty of diversions for the less daring, this is what brings the crowds, and long lines are typical for many of the attractions, even if they thin out as the evening goes on.
The park's five "islands" Marvel Super Hero Island, Toon Lagoon, Jurassic Park, The Lost Continent and Seuss Landing surround a lagoon. Marvel Super Hero Island is home to three major rides. The Incredible Hulk Coaster begins with a thrust, supposedly equal to that of a US Air Force F-16 fighter jet, and continues for more than two minutes of incognizant intensity. Doctor Doom's Fearfall provides a great panoramic view of the park before dropping 200ft, but is not worth waiting the usual half-hour or so. The Amazing Adventures of Spiderman is arguably the best ride in the park and should not be missed, despite a not uncommon hour's wait. In a first-ever combination of moving ride vehicles, filmed 3D action and pyrotechnic special effects, you are to help Spidey get back the Statue of Liberty from a gaggle of villains. Try going during the closing fireworks show, although as far as lines go, this one is the most enjoyable as the ride's story is presented in the queuing area.
Continuing on to Toon Lagoon, Dudley Do-Right's Ripsaw Falls and Popeye & Bluto's Bilge-Rat Barges are good for getting a midday drenching. From here, Jurassic Park is a takeoff on the popular film and includes the visitor center used in the movie. The Jurassic Park River Adventure is an atmospheric trip through dino-land that ends with an 85-foot plunge the steepest and fastest to date for a water ride. At The Lost Continent, one island over, the highlight is the intertwining set of inverted roller coasters, Dueling Dragons . Finally, although Seuss Landing is more directed towards kids, the playful architecture is right out of a Dr. Seuss book and the fireworks show at the end of the night is worth sticking around for.