Dueling Dragons
Why it's a best pick:
Located in the vacation capital of Orlando, Florida, Dueling Dragons at Universal Studios Islands of Adventure is actually two different coasters and an amazing theme rolled into one incredible attraction. After traversing a winding dungeon that sets the story for the great battle ahead, riders “choose thy fate” by selecting to ride either the Fire or Ice dragon. Both Fire and Ice are inverted coasters, meaning riders are seated on a ski lift type car with their legs free to dangle below. To ensure the dual is equally timed, a computer controlled scale weighs the two trains before they simultaneously begin a 125-foot ascent. After a steep drop, the dragons each begin a series of head-over-heels flips and banked turns, coming within feet of each other multiple times throughout the ride. Make sure to ride both, as each coaster features its own unique maneuvers and g-forces. Though both are extremely intense rides, the Fire dragon is the better overall ride and most intense of the two. Dueling Dragons is not to be missed -- it remains one of the best themed and most intense experiences that a theme park can offer. Note this ride will soon be a part of Islands of Adventure’s brand new Wizarding World of Harry Potter land, set to open in spring 2010.
Manufacturer Description: They're the world's first inverted, dueling roller-coasters. Soar 125 feet in the air and reach speeds of 55 mph on TWO UNIQUE RIDES - Ride with the Fire Dragon or Ice Dragon as they narrowly pass within inches on a roller coaster dogfight across the sky!
