Author: Brian Glenn

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…

Universal Studios Japan has announced that it will hold its grand opening of Super Nintendo World on March 18, 2021. The multi-layered land, with familiar landmarks such as Bowser’s Castle, Peach’s Castle, Toad’s House, and the familiar look of a Super Mario Bros game level, will feature several attractions – headlined by Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge. The original grand opening was set for February 4th of this year but was delayed when a new state of emergency was issued to the Osaka Prefecture due to the ongoing pandemic. The land had been in “soft opening” mode for limited guests since…

The Horrah returns! Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights is back – returning this fall for its much-anticipated 30th year on select nights beginning on September 3 through October 31. Featuring the tagline, “Never Go Alone” – guests will face 10 terrifying haunted houses, five twisted scare zones and two outrageous live shows based on some of the biggest names in horror and pop culture – including the first house announced, Beetlejuice! Beetlejuice was the first “ghost host” of Halloween Horror Nights – originally called ‘Fright Nights’ – during the event’s debut in 1991. As Halloween Horror Nights celebrates a milestone…