E.T. Adventure

The Attraction Overview

E.T. Adventure recreates the flying-bicycle chase from Steven Spielberg's 1982 film, seating riders on suspended bike-shaped vehicles that soar over a forest and into E.T.'s home planet to help him get back home. It's one of the gentlest dark rides in the park, aimed squarely at younger guests and families.

A charming touch unique to this ride is that guests give their first name to a cast member before boarding, and E.T. himself says goodbye by name to each rider near the end of the journey — a small personalization that's stuck with fans since opening day.

The Story

E.T. Adventure opened on June 7, 1990, as one of Universal Studios Florida's original opening attractions, personally overseen in development by Spielberg. It has since moved locations within the park over the decades, most recently relocating to the Hollywood area in 2024.

Before the Clock Strikes

• This is one of the best rides in the park for young children or guests who want a calmer, story-driven experience without drops or launches.
• There's no single-rider line, but waits are usually shorter than the park's coasters and simulators — a good midday break option.
• The bicycle-shaped ride vehicles suspend riders slightly off the ground, which can feel novel for first-time riders expecting a standard seated ride.
• Pair it with Despicable Me Minion Mayhem or Villain-Con Minion Blast for a family-friendly stretch of the park that's easy on younger guests.