Author: Brian Glenn

Universal Orlando has converted the current, or old depending on how you look at it, Universal Studios Store into the Universal Legacy Store – focusing on the nostalgia and history of the Universal Orlando Resort since its opening in 1990. The conversion is still taking place while construction continues on the new Universal Studios Store opening across the way. Universal has dubbed the new store, a “Premier Retail Experience”. The Legacy store features a bunch of memorabilia, props, artwork, and photos of Universal yesteryear, including sections dedicated to popular retired attractions Back to the Future, Jaws, and Dueling Dragons. Currently,…

Aquatica Orlando has announced that Riptide Race, the dueling racer waterslide, will be opening on April 3, 2021. Billed as “Florida’s First and Only Dueling Racer”, the new waterslide race pits teams against each other in a splash to the finish line. “We are thrilled to introduce Riptide Race, an experience you won’t find anywhere else in Florida. Aquatica is the first waterpark in the state to have a dueling racer and we know our guests are going to love the fun of challenging their friends and family in a race to the finish,” said Kyle Miller, Park President. Riptide…

Universal Studios Japan hosted the grand opening of Super Nintendo World, bringing one of the most iconic franchises to life in a theme park. Shigeru Miyamoto, Creator of Super Mario, and J.L. Bonnier, President and CEO of Universal Studios Japan kicked off the festivities at Super Star Plaza, joined by Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and Toad as the land officially opened to guests. “Super Nintendo World brings the world of Mario games to life”, said Shigeru Miyamoto, Creator of Super Mario. “The moment you enter the park, you will be amazed at how real everything feels.” The multi-layered land, with…

Häagen-Dazs Ice Cream Shop has opened in the New York section of Universal Studios Florida. Ice Cream, Sundaes, Coffee Frappes, Smoothies, and Shakes are available in the shop, featuring standard flavors and toppings. The shop also features several sorbet flavors as a non-dairy option. The shop features the familiar color palette of Haagen-Dazs, with a clean modern but minimalist approach to the theme. It replaces Ben & Jerry’s, which closed last year. The change comes as Häagen-Dazs will be replacing Ben & Jerry’s as an official ice cream vendor for Universal Orlando. Last year, Schwab’s Pharmacy, also located in Universal…

A new Häagen-Dazs Ice Cream Shop is set to replace Ben & Jerry’s in the New York section of Universal Studios Florida. New signage has appeared in the location, including a new stained glass Häagen-Dazs sign. No opening timeframe has been given, but it looks ready to open soon. The change comes as Häagen-Dazs will be replacing Ben & Jerry’s as an official ice cream vendor for Universal Orlando. Last year, Schwab’s Pharmacy, also located in Universal Studios Florida, made the switch to Häagen-Dazs as well. This marks the 2nd ice cream vendor change this year, as Dippin’ Dots are…

Universal Orlando has reopened the Bypass Bridge as Spring Break crowds begin to arrive at the theme parks; which also gives guests some awesome new views of the Jurassic World VelociCoaster – set to open this Summer. The Bypass Bridge connects Lost Continent to Jurassic Park, bypassing the often-busy Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade. The bridge is used to help assist with traffic flow, especially during special events and nighttime activities in the Wizarding World. It was originally constructed in 2008 during the construction of Hogsmeade. With the bridge reopened, guests are now able to get some new…

We’re back with a photo update around the Universal Orlando Resort! This month, Mardi Gras 2021: International Flavors of Carnaval continues at Universal Studios Florida. We also take a look at the latest construction on the Jurassic World VelociCoaster and other small projects around the resort. Let’s take a look! Park Update Index » Universaal Studios Store » Blue Man Group » Mardi Gras 2021 » A Day in the Park with Barney » Jurassic World VelociCoaster » Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls » A Little Bit of this, A Little Bit of that Universal Studios Store The recently-announced Universal Studios…

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is set to open an all-new Giraffe Bar at Serengeti Overlook, featuring panoramic indoor and outdoor views of the park’s expansive Serengeti Plain. Guests will be able to view several different species from the bar; including giraffes, zebra, antelope, ostrich, and more. Soft openings are expected to start on March 19, with the venue officially opening on Friday, March 26.          The indoor/outdoor venue offers shaded and air-conditioned comfort, with plenty of space for physical distancing. Some of the items you will find at the bar include: Frozen specialty cocktails such as the…

Universal Orlando has announced they are extending the Mardi Gras 2021: International Flavors of Carnaval event at Universal Studios Florida until April 11. The event originally was scheduled to end on March 28 but was extended due to popular demand. The event features more than 70 dishes and beverages from 13 locations around the globe, and with the park vibrantly decorated and featuring costumed dancers and stilt performers just like years prior (just at a safe distance). Guests will also have the first-ever opportunity to get up close with the intricately-detailed Mardi Gras floats that will be stationed throughout the…

Universal Studios Hollywood is inching closer and closer to reopening. After being given new guidelines by the State of California that theme parks can open on April 1, it appears that Universal plans on reopening their Hollywood park sometime in April. Comcast’s Chief Financial Officer, Mike Cavanagh, stated during an investor conference that they were looking to reopen the park next month – but no official date was given. Recently, a newsletter was also sent out to passholders looking to welcome them back to the park soon, stating; “We are thrilled to share the good news with you that Universal…