(Review) Mr. DNA’s Double Helix Spin: Is Universal Kids Resort’s longest ride too much?
“A spinning adventure into the skies of Universal Kids Resort”
When I first spotted Mr. DNA’s Double Helix Spin inside Jurassic World Adventure Camp at Universal Kids Resort in Frisco, Texas, I assumed it would be a quick Ferris wheel-style ride. My 8-year-old hesitantly climbed aboard, but I was surprised to discover this colorful spinner lasts nearly 10 minutes, making it one of the longest attractions in the entire park.
Jurassic World Adventure Camp is geared toward this generation of kids. You see, besides the hit movies we parents already know, there is a new format for families to explore this adventurous world. With a show on Netflix, books, comics, and toys, “Jurassic World Camp Cretaceous” and “Jurassic World: Chaos Theory” are the inspiration for this land within Universal Kids Resort.
What to expect on Mr. DNA’s Double Helix Spin
Child’s rating: 9 out of 10
It is one of the lands with the most to offer within Universal Kids Resort. Jurassic World Adventure Camp, packs in the ability to meet baby raptors, climb and explore in two dino-themed play areas, and ride three rides. One of those rides is Mr. DNA’s Double Helix Spin, and it has the longest ride time of any attraction in this Texas park.
Photo by Dani Meyering
There is no minimum height requirement for Mr. DNA’s Double Helix Spin; however, hand-held infants are not permitted. This ride has three transitions, one of which involves a lot of spinning, which can be disorienting. While on the ride, I did get dizzy and disoriented, but focused on the distant horizon and took slow, deep breaths to help. I witnessed a young child who was very uncomfortable and cried during the height of the ride.
Related: How does Universal Kids Resort compare to Peppa Pig Theme Park?
Three sequences
Mr. DNA’s Double Helix Spin operates in two distinct ride modes, and understanding the difference can help families decide whether it’s a good fit.
For roughly the first four to five minutes, one cluster of three ride vehicles is loading while the other cluster remains at the top of the attraction, rotating in a traditional Ferris wheel pattern. Once every capsule is loaded, the ride shifts into its signature “double helix” mode.
Photo by Dani Meyering
WATCH: See the double helix sequence in action by watching our video below.
During this phase, the two clusters continue rotating like a Ferris wheel while simultaneously circling around one another, creating the sensation of a giant spinning DNA strand. This sequence lasts about three to four minutes before one cluster is lowered for unloading while the other returns to the gentler Ferris wheel rotation.
After the second loading cycle is complete, riders experience one final three- to four-minute round of the double helix movement before returning to the loading platform.
My 7-year-old son and I both found the double helix sections more intense than we expected. We started to feel a little disoriented, but slowing our breathing, looking toward the horizon instead of watching the ride’s movement, and taking in the unique views across Universal Kids Resort helped us stay comfortable.
Photo by Dani Meyering
One small improvement I’d love to see is an audio signal, like a subtle chime, letting riders know when the attraction is about to switch between ride modes. A simple cue would help families prepare for the more intense spinning sections and reduce the surprise when the ride transitions into the double helix pattern.
WATCH: Our YouTube video below shows the entire experience from beginning to end. And some colorful commentary included.
More ways to play
Overall, I think Mr. DNA’s Double Helix Spin is one of the most unique attractions at Universal Kids Resort. I appreciated that it offers a much longer experience than most family rides, but that also means it’s important to know what you’re signing up for. From the moment your ride vehicle begins loading until you step back onto the ground, you’ll spend about eleven to twelve minutes on the attraction.
If your family starts to feel a little overwhelmed afterward, Universal has thoughtfully placed two great spots to recharge just steps away. A shaded Stegosaurus-themed playground gives kids a chance to climb and burn off some energy, while the nearby sensory garden offers a quieter place to slow down before your next adventure.
Photo by Dani Meyering
One of my favorite touches was the soundtrack. Between the gentle Jurassic Park music and nature sounds woven throughout the experience, it helped create a peaceful atmosphere during the slower portions of the ride and made the attraction feel more relaxing than a typical spinning ride. As long as you know what to expect from the ride’s length and unique spinning patterns, Mr. DNA’s Double Helix Spin is a fun addition to Universal Kids Resort.
Need help planning your day? See our complete guide to Universal Kids Resort for everything families should know before visiting.
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