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General Information
Attraction Types
Universal Orlando has three main attraction types.
3D/4D Experience – Commonly referred to as “simulators”, these attractions have you in special glasses and moving vehicles. These are the most common attractions to cause motion sickness, so proceed with caution if you are prone to having issues.
Kid/Family Friendly – These are attractions that are fun for the whole family. They rarely have a height requirement and if they do, it typically indicates that an adult needs to accompany the child rather than the child being able to ride alone.
Thrill – These are the most intense attractions in the parks. They almost always have height requirements. These are also the attractions that present the most issues for plus-size riders due to the types of restraint systems in place.
Restraint Types
Universal Orlando has three restraint types.
Seatbelt – This is exactly what it sounds like; a traditional seatbelt that goes across the hips and fastens at the waist or over the thighs. This restraint type can be problematic for those with thick thighs, wide hips, and/or thick abdomens.
Lap Bar – This is a restraint that pulls towards the rider and locks in over the thighs and abdomen. This restraint type can be problematic for those with thick thighs and/or thick abdomens.
Over the Shoulder/Chest – This is a restraint that comes from overhead and locks in over the chest and abdomen. This restraint type can be problematic for those with large chests and/or thick abdomens.
Body Types
For the sake of being able to categorize attractions effectively, there are three key body types that we will focus on.
Wide Hips
Thick Abdomen
Broad Shoulder / Large Chest
Thick Legs
General Weight Restriction
(used at Volcano Bay)
Test Seats
Universal Orlando Resort provides test seats at attractions that tend to give plus-size riders the most trouble. It should be noted that these test seats are out in the elements and the materials they consist of expand and contract repeatedly. Some riders report that they did not get the “green light” on the test seat but were able to ride the attraction itself without issue. If you are close, you should try the attraction.
Difference Makers
Every single rider and every single body type is different. It is impossible to make broad generalizations that consider every nuance.
The “squish factor” is one variable that differentiates two people with similar body sizes and compositions. “Squish factor” refers to how hard or soft someone’s specific area of their body is. The “squishier” someone is, the more likely they can move things around and get a restraint to lock in versus someone who is firmer or more muscular. Yes, there are body builders who are in pristine shape that can’t get the green light to ride certain attractions.
The time of day is another thing that can’t impact body size. Humidity, diet, and amount of activity are all things that can impact body size. It is possible to get the green light first thing in the morning, only to return at the end of the day and be told that the restraint will not close safely at the same attraction. Ride the attractions that you think may give you troubles first each day!
The type of clothing you are wearing is also a factor. Compression pieces may help shave off a few inches, but they also impact “squish factor”. Denim and other pant types with thicker waist bands add bulk to the abdomen. Bare legs when wearing shorts can impact your ability to slide all the way into attraction seats to give the restraint as much room as possible to close safely. Be sure to check out the Travel and Park Essentials page for recommendations to optimize your experience.
Attraction Queues (Lines)
The queues are fantastic in the parks, with lots to see – especially in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Even if you aren’t planning to experience the attraction, you can still go through the queue and take in all the amazing details. Just tell the Team Member at the attraction loading area that you aren’t riding, and they will direct you to the exit.
If you did plan to ride and are unable to get the green light at the boarding area – don’t panic. The Team Member will often give you some advice on how to shift your body around or may even attempt to help you with the restraint. Every experience can be different, so keep in mind that your mileage may vary on the level of help or expertise the Team Member provides. If you are unable to ride safely, they will point you to the exit area where you can wait for your party.