Inspired by Helios, the Greek god of the sun, this resort weaves together Mediterranean beauty, cosmic wonder, and futuristic flair. Think intricate constellations, radiant sunlight, lush floral motifs, and dreamy architecture that feels both timeless and otherworldly.

As part of Universal Orlando’s Signature Collection, guests at Helios Grand enjoy premium amenities, elevated service, and the resort’s biggest perk: an exclusive entrance directly into Epic Universe, Universal’s newest theme park. No buses. No long walks. Just a seamless, stress-free entry into the Epic Universe.

The hotel doesn’t just sit next to Epic Universe—it’s practically a part of it. Its aesthetic complements the adjacent Celestial Park, the central hub of Epic Universe, serving as a gorgeous backdrop to the new theme park’s skyline. Its architecture and theming enhance the immersive atmosphere of the park, making your stay feel like a continuous adventure.

With the opening date of Universal Helios Grand Hotel bumped up to April 16, now’s your chance to be one of the first guests to stay at these brand-new accommodations. Plus, don’t forget to grab discounted tickets to Epic Universe and other Universal Orlando theme parks to make the most of your exclusive entrance benefit!

Share your vacation planning tips with 180,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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Celestial Park at Universal Epic Universe

As the breathtaking entry point and heart of Universal Epic Universe, Celestial Park sets the stage for everything this next-generation theme park has to offer. This stunning area blends innovative design with immersive storytelling, drawing guests in from the moment they step through the gates.

Greeting visitors at the front of the park is The Chronos, the towering icon of Universal Epic Universe. This majestic, moving structure serves as both a visual anchor and a symbolic gateway, inviting guests to explore the awe-inspiring realms beyond. It’s an unforgettable welcome that sets the tone for the adventure ahead.

Designed with a wheel-and-spoke layout, Celestial Park serves as the central hub, connecting visitors to the park’s various immersive worlds through portals. According to the lore, it was Vincent Various who crafted these portals. The Celestials, inhabitants of this Celestial Park, once traveled via comets (like the ones you’ll race aboard in Stardust Racers, more on that below). But comets, as thrilling as they were, proved unpredictable. So, Various stepped in to create something more reliable: the portals.

But don’t be too quick to rush through! This area offers far more than just a pass-through experience.

One of the biggest showstoppers here is Stardust Racers, a high-speed, dual-launch coaster that dominates the skyline with sleek tracks and spectacular inversions. It’s a must-ride for adrenaline seekers and one of the most thrilling attractions in the entire park.

Prefer something a little more laid-back? Constellation Carousel offers a dreamy, celestial take on the classic merry-go-round.

Celestial Park Highlights

• Stardust Racers: It’s a beautiful, gravity-defying experience with unique elements you won’t find on any other coaster in the park.
• Fountain Features: Playful, dancing fountains are scattered throughout, adding energy to this cosmic area.
• Helios Grand Hotel: This luxurious resort serves as a striking visual anchor, seamlessly completing the skyline and enhancing the immersive, cohesive atmosphere of Celestial Park.
• Pizza Moon: A fan favorite! This Victorian theater-inspired pizzeria features animated set pieces and a lively atmosphere that’s just as memorable as the pizza itself. If you’re dining in Celestial Park. It’s a must-try!

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD at Universal Epic Universe

Calling all gamers! SUPER NINTENDO WORLD has officially landed at Universal Epic Universe, and it’s everything we dreamed of and more. After making its debut in Universal Studios Japan and Universal Studios Hollywood, this vibrant, game-inspired realm now has a home right here at Universal Orlando Resort, complete with a warp pipe entrance that instantly immerses you in the pixel-perfect worlds of Mario, Donkey Kong, and beyond.

Take on Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, an interactive dark ride where AR headsets and real-world racing combine. Race through familiar tracks, dodge Koopa shells, and aim for victory alongside Mario and friends. Or team up with Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong on Mine-Cart Madness, a thrilling coaster that brings the game mechanics to life.

For a more relaxing experience, hop aboard Yoshi’s Adventure for a leisurely journey through the Mushroom Kingdom. We had a blast spotting colorful eggs, pressing interactive buttons along the way, and soaking in the unique views of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD.

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD Highlights

• Nods to Other Nintendo Franchises: While Mario and Donkey Kong take center stage, be on the lookout for hidden nods to other Nintendo franchises. Spot the Pikmin tucked away in the scenery, and don’t miss the Nintendo Super Star Store in Celestial Park, where stained-glass windows feature Link and Zelda from The Legend of Zelda series.
• Mine-Cart Madness: Though we’ve experienced Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge in Hollywood, this was our first time riding Mine-Cart Madness. This coaster simulates wild stunts like leaping from one track to another, blurring the line between game and reality.

Dark Universe at Universal Epic Universe

At Orlando Informer, we take our horror seriously—especially as devoted fans of Halloween Horror Nights. So it’s no surprise that Dark Universe was one of our most anticipated areas of Universal Epic Universe. The best part? It completely lived up to the hype. This world is a love letter to the legacy of Universal Monsters that introduces a fresh, modern twist that’s more fun than frightening, making it accessible and thrilling for guests of all ages.

One of the crown jewels of Universal Epic Universe, Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, is easily one of our favorite attractions in the entire park. This dark ride follows Dr. Victoria Frankenstein, a brilliant descendant of the infamous scientist, as she attempts to control and experiment on some of the most iconic monsters in history. The result? A heart-pounding monster mash where Dracula, The Mummy, and more collide in a narrative that feels like the Avengers: Endgame of the monster-verse.

For slightly lighter, family-friendly fun, Curse of the Werewolf offers a spinning coaster experience inspired by The Wolf Man’s origin story. It’s the perfect introduction to thrills for younger guests, all while keeping the eerie tone that makes Dark Universe so unique.

Dark Universe Highlights

• Power Surges & Story Integration: One of the most compelling elements of Dark Universe is its immersive environmental storytelling. Throughout the village, guests may notice sudden power surges—lights flickering, energy spikes, and strange sounds. These moments are tied to the experiments happening inside Frankenstein Manor, which towers ominously above Dark Universe. Is it a breakthrough? Or something gone terribly wrong?
• Roaming Characters: Unlike most modern theme parks, Dark Universe breaks the mold with roaming characters that bring the village to life. Keep your eyes peeled for Dr. Victoria Frankenstein’s assistant, Ygor, or monster hunters patrolling the streets of Darkmoor. These interactions add depth and realism, making Dark Universe feel like a living, breathing world.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic at Universal Epic Universe

Universal Epic Universe continues to expand its offerings with the third and most ambitious chapter of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, offering fans an all-new way to explore the magical world we know and love. Blending elements from the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films, this immersive area uses a Time-Turner portal to transport guests back to 1920s Paris, echoing the atmosphere of Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald.

Much like Diagon Alley over at Universal Studios Florida, Ministry of Magic is tucked away from the modern world. Once you enter the portal, you’re greeted by a sprawling, Parisian cityscape that feels entirely removed from Central Florida. Every inch is meticulously detailed, making this realm one of the most immersive experiences in Universal Epic Universe.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic features two major offerings that expand the Wizarding World like never before. Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry is a groundbreaking attraction that takes you deep into the heart of the British Ministry of Magic. Centered around the long-anticipated trial of Dolores Umbridge, this ride invites both longtime readers and film fans to explore the halls of this magical government institution for the very first time.

Enter the big top of Le Cirque Arcanus, first introduced in Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald. Here, magic leaps from the stage with breathtaking live performances, aerialists, stunning puppetry, and fantastic beasts that spring to life through a seamless fusion of stagecraft and special effects.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic Highlights

• Portal Entry: Keen-eyed fans will spot a lineup of wands mounted around the portal, including those of Harry, Hermione, Queenie, Newt, and Grindelwald. Look up, and you’ll find the Elder Wand, which was wielded by both Dumbledore and Grindelwald at a point in time—a nod to the shared history between these powerful wizards.
• Immersive Environment: Whether you’re a die-hard Potterhead or a casual fan, this world is an absolute showstopper. From its massive Parisian facades and intricately themed shops to the ambient magic woven through every corner, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic delivers an unforgettable experience that feels far beyond the Muggle world. Fun fact: this area features the tallest buildings ever constructed for any Wizarding World location to date!
• Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry: This queue is easily one of our new favorites—it’s an unforgettable walkthrough of the Ministry of Magic, revealing areas we’ve never explored before. The grand atrium is a visual spectacle, complete with a restored Fountain of Magical Brethren and an enchanting weather-filled ceiling. Along the way, you’ll pass through the Ministry’s reception area, the Auror locker room, the Hall of Ministers, and even Dolores Umbridge’s iconic pink-and-gold office. It’s a richly detailed experience on a truly epic scale. And just when you think it can’t get better, it does—because this all leads up to what we believe is one of the greatest theme park rides in the world. Imagine The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man mashed up with The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, all while seamlessly blending screen-based wizardry with immersive practical sets. It’s an edge-of-your-seat experience that’ll have you breathless, even while you’re sitting down.
• Le Cirque Arcanus: An absolute standout, this spellbinding live show blends modern technology with theatrical artistry to conjure dazzling illusions, mythical creatures, and breathtaking magical moments on stage.
• Specialty Beverages: Yes, Butterbeer is here (of course!), but this portal also debuts brand-new wizarding drinks. Try the refreshing Thé Fraise, a strawberry-mint iced tea, or dare to sip Le Breuvage Sombre du Gobelet Noir, a deep, fruit-forward brew topped with yogurt-popping pearls.

How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk at Universal Epic Universe

The final world we’re exploring in Universal Epic Universe is nothing short of legendary. Welcome to Isle of Berk, a place where Vikings and dragons live in harmony, straight out of DreamWorks’ beloved How to Train Your Dragon franchise. From the moment you pass through the portal, you’re transported to the cliffs of Berk. Just beyond the entry point, a beautifully engraved stone sets the scene with a heartfelt tale of unity and bravery.

On Hiccup’s Wing Gliders, embark on a high-flying coaster that lets you ride like a dragon rider through Berk’s skies. Channel your inner Viking athlete on Dragon Racer’s Rally as you spin and soar through a high-energy training session. Plus, with dragons everywhere, it only makes sense to learn a little fire control—climb aboard Fyre Drill, an interactive boat ride where you’ll team up to put out blazing fires and save the day.

Direct from Universal Studios Beijing, The Untrainable Dragon is an emotional and visually stunning stage show that combines cutting-edge puppetry, music, and theatrical storytelling. Join familiar characters like Hiccup, Toothless, Astrid, and Gobber as they meet a mysterious dragon unlike any they’ve encountered before. It’s a magical performance that captures the spirit of the How to Train Your Dragon series in a whole new way.

How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk Highlights

• Epic Reveal Moment: Like the Ministry of Magic, Isle of Berk begins with a jaw-dropping reveal that instantly immerses you in its fantastical setting. It’s not just a theme park world—it feels like you’ve traveled to a Viking realm.
• Dragons at Every Turn: From tucked-away sculptures to lifelike animatronics, dragons are everywhere in Isle of Berk. Whether flying overhead, interacting with guests, or featured in ride details, the presence of dragons gives the entire area a sense of movement and life—making it one of the most dynamic zones in Universal Epic Universe.

One of the biggest takeaways from our first visit to Universal Epic Universe is just how faithfully the park brings its concept art to life. Every detail, from the sweeping skylines to the immersive worlds beyond the portals, feels like it was pulled straight from the renderings we’ve studied for months. It’s truly a visual masterpiece and an absolute must-visit for any theme park enthusiast.

As we continue the countdown to the grand opening of Universal Epic Universe, we’ll be keeping you updated every step of the way. Want the latest news, sneak peeks, and insider info delivered directly to your inbox? Sign up for our email updates here so you never miss a moment.

Start planning your own visit to Epic Universe by purchasing discounted Universal theme park tickets through Orlando Informer here and get one step closer to exploring the most exciting new theme park in the world.

Are you excited to check out Epic Universe for yourself? Discuss it all with 180,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

The post 15 Things That Surprised Us Most at Epic Universe: Inside Universal’s Newest Park appeared first on Orlando Informer.

To say this hotel is beautiful would be an understatement. Inspired by the palace of Helios, the Greek god of the sun, this hotel radiates elegance with its celestial patterns, intricate constellations, and rich Mediterranean design elements throughout.

Helios Grand Hotel is part of Universal Orlando’s Signature Collection, the most luxurious hotel category on property. Guests staying here can expect top-tier amenities and exclusive perks. One of the biggest highlights? The hotel’s dedicated entrance to Universal Epic Universe – yes, guests will be able to access the new theme park directly from the hotel.

This afternoon, we got an early look inside and explored several key areas of the hotel, including the lobby, guest rooms, Bar Helios, and the pool area. Let’s take a closer look!

Universal Helios Grand Hotel Rooms

Each room serves as a serene home away from home, inspired by lush garden themes and designed with comfort in mind. Many offer sweeping views of Epic Universe, making your stay as memorable as it is relaxing. The rooms are designed to create a calming retreat after a day of adventure, wrapped in soft hues of gold, blue, and pink. Plush furnishings, unique lighting, and well-appointed bathrooms round out the space, offering a peaceful place to unwind and recharge.

Bar Helios

Wow. Just wow. This bar is an absolute must-stop—whether you’re dining or just grabbing a drink for a quick peek. It’s breathtaking, with the showstopping astronomical dome bar stealing the spotlight. Bar Helios seats around 190 guests, including 30 at the bar itself. Step out onto the terrace to enjoy a tapas-style menu, and don’t even get us started on the view. Overlooking Epic Universe, it offers a truly spectacular backdrop that’s hard to beat.

Dedicated Epic Universe Entrance

One of the biggest perks we mentioned earlier? The dedicated theme park entrance to Epic Universe is exclusively for Universal Helios Grand Hotel guests. Just off the beautifully designed lobby (which is a stunner on its own), you’ll find this private entrance. It’s a major time-saver and truly one of the hotel’s standout amenities.

Universal Helios Grand Hotel Pool

The zero-entry pool at Universal Helios Grand Hotel is the ultimate oasis for rest and relaxation. With underwater speakers, cozy fire pits, and poolside cabanas for rent, it’s designed for all-day lounging and unwinding in style. You’ll find 400 lounge chairs surrounding the water and 18 cabanas, including three grand cabanas with waterfront access—so you can step right from your cabana into the pool.

When hunger strikes, head over to Lotus Lagoon, the poolside bar and grill. Sip on a refreshing cocktail (or a non-alcoholic drink) and enjoy a menu of burgers, salads, sandwiches, and more—all served with a side of sunshine.

Ready to experience it for yourself? Book your stay at Universal Helios Grand Hotel here.

Share your vacation planning tips with 180,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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In keeping with the immersive design of Epic Universe, all realms, including the new Harry Potter area, are separated by berms with “portal” entrances. These portals act as magical gateways, transitioning guests from the central hub of Celestial Park – a world between worlds – to the distinct realms of each area. After crossing into The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, guests will be transported to two historical points within the Harry Potter film franchise: The magical side of 1920s Paris from the Fantastic Beasts films and the 1990s British Ministry of Magic from the Harry Potter series.

Enter 1920s France in Place Cachée

We’ll start with  Place Cachée since it’s the easiest to cover as much of the newest Wizarding World takes place here. Place Cachée is a pocket realm similar to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley where many wizarding shops and cafes can be found.

Now, this 1920s bustling, French shopping district is specific to the film Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald. Although this movie is the second installment of the Fantastic Beasts franchise, don’t worry — knowing the first or third movies won’t be important to enjoying this portion of Epic’s Wizarding World (although you’re welcome to watch them anyway).

That said, watching Crimes of Grindelwald before your visit can add an extra layer of excitement, as you’ll spot familiar details and locations, like Le Cirque Arcanus and recognizable storefronts, straight from the screen.

Dolores Umbridge on Trial at Epic Universe’s The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Grab your time turners! Upon entering Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry, guests are transported forward in time to the 1990s Ministry of Magic. Here, Ministry of Magic visitors will witness the trial of Dolores Umbridge, the former High Inquisitor of Hogwarts and a secondary antagonist within the series. On that note, to understand why Umbridge is standing trial, there are two key reference points to consider:

Start with Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. The fifth installation in the Harry Potter film franchise is Umbridge’s first appearance and it wastes no time in showing us her cruel nature. This film is also where we learn that, while she’s no Death Eater, it quickly becomes clear that her ideology isn’t far off from Voldemort’s.

Since the attraction’s story takes place after the events of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 and Part 2, fans will want to watch those two films next. While Deathly Hallows Part 2 is where we’re told Umbridge will stand trial, it’s specifically Deathly Hallows Part 1 that provides further detail about how wicked Umbridge truly is as she extends her cruelty and prejudice to Muggle-born wizards and witches following Voldemort’s takeover of the Ministry of Magic.

Now that we’re up to date, we can cross the Métro-Floo and enter the British Ministry of Magic for the long-anticipated trial of Dolores Umbridge. Surely nothing could go wrong… right?

Why stop there? Dive deeper into the worlds of Epic Universe—discover the must-watch movies behind Dark Universe, relive the adventures of How to Train Your Dragon, and power up with our top game picks for SUPER NINTENDO WORLD. Ready to turn your epic plans into reality? Grab discounted theme park tickets here and start your next great adventure!

How are you preparing for your trip to Epic Universe? Discuss it all with 180,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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We’re breaking down our top five reasons to love this Prime Value stay!

1. Bar 17 Bistro at Universal Aventura Hotel

One of the most delicious amenities Aventura Hotel has to offer is their rooftop bar. Bar 17 Bistro is a swanky outdoor lounge perched on the 17th floor (fitting, right?), serving up handcrafted cocktails and tasty bites. While everything on the menu is delicious, the standout is the Signature Baos—especially the crispy pork belly.

As you savor the menu, you’ll also enjoy stunning 360-degree views of the surrounding area, including the nearby theme parks and downtown Orlando. Open every evening, this rooftop bar is a must-visit during your stay at Aventura.

2. Volcano Bay in Your Backyard

If you plan to visit Universal’s Volcano Bay Water Theme Park during your vacation, Aventura is a perfect choice for your home base. Tucked behind the hotel and just past the pool, you’ll find a convenient walking path that leads directly to Volcano Bay—no need to head to CityWalk or hop on a shuttle. It’s the perfect shortcut for guests using the early park admission perk, helping you arrive quickly and snag that prime spot near the Krakatau volcano.

3. Views for Days

Bar 17 Bistro isn’t the only place at Universal Aventura Hotel that has amazing views. In fact, you may not even need to leave your room. As one of the tallest hotels at Universal Orlando Resort, Aventura features floor-to-ceiling windows in every room. Whether you’re gazing out at the theme parks or the downtown skyline, the view is sure to impress.

4. Universal Aventura Hotel Transportation Options

One of the biggest perks of staying at a Universal Orlando Resort hotel is the complimentary transportation to CityWalk and its connected theme parks—plus bus service to the soon-to-open Epic Universe. At Aventura, you can access a quick shuttle ride or a scenic 20-minute walking trail.

5. Prime Value Resort

Aventura Hotel is part of Universal’s Prime Value category, offering more amenities than the Value Inn and Suites accommodations while still keeping rates budget-friendly. Standard rooms can start around $200 per night, deluxe rooms from approximately $250, and suites from about $475 when available. Aventura has the perfect room for every group looking to make it their home base during a Universal Orlando Resort vacation.

Don’t wait—unlock the benefits of staying at Universal Aventura Resort by checking the latest rates through Orlando Informer here and start planning your getaway!

Share your vacation planning tips with 180,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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The legacy of the Universal Monsters began in 1923 with The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Universal’s first major monster movie, adapted from Victor Hugo’s 1831 novel. From that moment on, the Universal Monsters carved out a permanent place in cinematic history, evolving from literary legends to silver-screen superstars. And now, they’re stepping back into the spotlight in a big way with the highly anticipated Dark Universe—coming to Universal Orlando Resort’s brand-new theme park, Epic Universe, when it opens in May 2025.

We’ll dive into the cinematic origins, theme park evolution, and thrilling future of the Universal Monsters—and discover how they’ve earned their very own world within Epic Universe.

The Early Years of the Universal Monsters

The Hunchback of Notre Dame, plus many of his cohorts such as Dracula (written by Bram Stoker) and Frankenstein’s Monster (created by Mary Shelley), first emerged from the pages of classic literature before being immortalized in the beloved films we know and love from Universal.

However, others originated as films themselves. The beloved 1999 film The Mummy, starring Brendan Fraser, is loosely inspired by the 1932 classic of the same name, written by John L. Balderston.

Regardless of their origins, monsters have stayed in our minds and been part of the entertainment landscape for generations—and rightly so. Whether it’s the horror or the humanity, something about these monsters is, well…universal. 

But how did these monster movies become, essentially, the very first cinematic universe? It all began with great storytelling—and, as always, a little bit of luck.

Motion pictures were invented in the late 1800s, and as the technology progressed beyond the Lumiere brothers’ Cinematographe and The Edison company’s Kinetoscope, pictures were ready for the big screen. But where to find a story? Books. That’s where novels like Dracula, Frankenstein, and The Phantom of the Opera came into play. These were very successful films in the 1930s and saw the rise of the first generation of Hollywood Horror stars, including Lon Chaney, Bela Lugosi, and Boris Karloff. 

After those initial films, and other classics such as The Mummy, The Invisible Man, and The Bride of Frankenstein, there was a lack of horror films, so Universal re-released Dracula and Frankenstein and started coming up with new ideas such as Son of Frankenstein.

The Creation of the First Cinematic Universe

As great as the original monsters were and are, their stories had been told, so to carry on their legacy, it was time to branch out.

In the 1940s, Universal released The Wolf Man, which starred the son of a familiar face, Lon Chaney, Jr. The 1940s was also the era of the monster crossovers, which were wildly popular and helped to cement the Universal Monsters into Hollywood history. Movies like Frankenstein Meets The Wolf Man (1943), House of Frankenstein (1944), and Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein (1948) offered up the same beloved monsters but with new and original twists for the filmgoing public.

Without those crossovers, the original monsters might have faded into oblivion. Luckily for us, they endured, and the 1950s introduced The Creature from the Black Lagoon along with a new Mummy film. 

But it was in the late 1950s that the Universal Monsters became transmedial. In 1957, Universal struck an epic 10-year television deal with Screen Gems. This deal allowed Universal to distribute 52 of their titles, which were included in Mel Jass’ Mel’s Matinee Movie between 1958 and 1979, keeping the monsters in the mix for American audiences.

It was during this era that a young Stephen Sommers, who would go on to direct 1999’s The Mummy, had his first introduction to the classic monster. His experience is a testament to the importance of keeping these legacy stories alive, allowing new generations of filmmakers to discover them and create their own unforgettable films.

Universal Monsters in Theme Parks

The 1960s also marked the Monsters’ debut in the theme park world. When Universal Studios Hollywood opened in 1964, it featured the Studio Backlot Tour, complete with appearances from Frankenstein’s Monster. Guests could also purchase a variety of themed merchandise, including models, toys, masks, and even postage stamps.

Fast-forward to the 1990s… thanks to a merger with Panasonic, Universal was able to release VHS versions of all their classic films, making them widely available for the general public to enjoy at home whenever they wanted—keeping the monsters alive for a new generation. The success of this endeavor ultimately paved the way for 1999’s The Mummy and spin-off films inspired by the original Monsters, such as Van Helsing, also directed by Stephen Sommers and starring Hugh Jackman.

June 7, 1990, was the opening day of Universal Studios Florida and with it, a show most of us know and love, Universal Orlando’s Horror Make-Up Show, previously known as The Phantom of the Opera Horror Make-Up Show, paying homage to the monster of the same name portrayed by Claude Rains in 1943. The current iteration of the show has a montage of various films, highlighting the work of Jack Pierce, the legendary designer behind many monsters, including Dracula, Frankenstein’s Monster, the Wolf Man, and the Bride of Frankenstein.

The monsters continued their march into the realm of theme parks with the opening of the Classic Monster’s Cafe (RIP) in 1998. During its time at Universal Studios Florida, the restaurant offered up quick-service BBQ meals, but the best part was the memorabilia, props, and the TV screens showing clips from the original films. 

Next up, the curse, it’s real! Revenge of the Mummy opened in 2004 with none other than Rick O’Connell himself (Brendan Frasier) there to mark the occasion. To this day, the ride remains a favorite among both locals and tourists, not to mention one of the most quotable. After all, Brendan probably would’ve enjoyed it a little more if he’d gotten his CUP OF COFFEE! [ghostly swoosh!]

Since its inception as Fright Nights in 1991, Universal Monsters have been woven into the very fabric of Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Florida. Creatures like Frankenstein’s Monster, Dracula, the Wolfman, and more have been haunting guests for decades, making appearances in houses, shows, and beyond.

In 2020, Universal was determined to keep the Universal Monsters legacy alive—even in a year when Halloween Horror Nights looked a little different. Although the full event was scaled back, three haunted houses opened during daytime park hours as part of a special “seasonal experience,” one of which was Universal Monsters: The Bride of Frankenstein Lives. The best part? She made a triumphant return in 2021 for HHN30.

Universal Monsters have become a staple of the event—and now…

Epic Universe: The Next Chapter

Ever since Monster’s Cafe closed its doors at Universal Studios Florida, fans have been craving a new permanent home for the iconic monsters. That wish is finally coming true—Dark Universe will be unveiled with the grand opening of Epic Universe in May 2025.

The highly anticipated Dark Universe will feature multiple thrilling components—including two major attractions: Curse of the Werewolf, a family-friendly coaster, and Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, a dark ride that plunges guests into the eerie catacombs of Frankenstein Manor. But beware—Frankenstein’s Monster isn’t the only creature lurking in the shadows!

Besides two groundbreaking rides, Dark Universe will offer even more ways to immerse yourself in the world of monsters. Get ready for meet-and-greets with all your favorite creatures of the night, plus three unique quick-service restaurants that are as themed as they are tasty. At Das Stakehaus, you’ll find vampire-approved cuisine where there’ll be stakes on steaks. Over at The Burning Blade Tavern, dine beneath the iconic flaming windmill, a nod to the climactic scene from the 1931 Frankenstein film. And De Lacey’s Cottage offers a more heartfelt touch, inspired by the very place where Frankenstein’s Monster first experienced kindness and enjoyed a meal after escaping the laboratory.

Want to fully embrace the creature within? Head to the Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience, where Dr. Pretorius’ old lab has been transformed into a makeover parlor that lets you become a monster yourself.

Epic Universe’s Dark Universe is a world that monster fans have been waiting for, so step through that portal and take a bite! 

Excited to become immersed in the world of Universal Monsters? Discuss it all with 180,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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Here are the best ways to experience Universal Studios Florida without riding a single coaster!

Non-Roller Coaster Rides at Universal Studios Florida

Skipping the thrills? No problem—Universal still has tons of rides that won’t make your stomach do backflips.

• Hogwarts Express: A train ride and a show in one! Grab a seat, watch the Wizarding World unfold outside your window, and maybe spot a Chocolate Frog or two.
• E.T. Adventure: A nostalgic, slow-moving journey through the stars—because helping a tiny alien get home is a Universal must-do.
• Despicable Me Minion Mayhem: A motion simulator ride (with stationary seating options) that lets you join Gru and his Minions on a mischievous adventure. It’s fun, silly, and full of Minion chaos.
• MEN IN BLACK Alien Attack: Think laser tag, but with aliens. Zap ‘em, rack up points, and outscore your friends. It has a few spins but nothing too crazy.

Delicious Eats Beyond the Thrills at Universal

Universal Studios Florida has some seriously good eats, and if you’re skipping the coasters, that just means more time to enjoy them! Here are some must-try spots:

• The Leaky Cauldron: Butterbeer, bangers & mash, and a cozy pub straight out of the Wizarding World? Pure magic.
• Lombard’s Seafood Grille: Fresh seafood, pasta, and chowder with stunning waterfront views.
• Finnegan’s Bar & Grill: A lively Irish pub serving up hearty comfort food and live music. (And yes, you can grab a pint!)
• TODAY Cafe: Fresh sandwiches, pastries, and coffee—perfect for a light, refreshing bite.
• Lard Lad Donuts: Home of the giant pink-frosted donut. Enough said.
• Central Park Crepes: Sweet or savory, these freshly made crepes are perfect for snacking as you explore.

Beautiful Scenery

Universal Orlando Resort parks are all about immersive theming, making every stroll feel like stepping into another world. And isn’t that what vacation is all about—escaping the chaos of daily life?

Slow down, take it all in, and you’ll notice something new around every corner.  Some of the best spots to take in are:

• Diagon Alley: Even if you skip Escape from Gringotts, you need to explore this wizarding wonderland. Watch the dragon breathe fire, sip Butterbeer, and pop into Ollivanders for a wand selection.
• New York & Hollywood Streets: Classic city streets with old-school storefronts, vintage cars, and surprise character sightings (hello, Marilyn Monroe!).
• The Lagoon: Grab a bench, enjoy the view, and stick around for a nighttime drone show.
• San Francisco & London Waterfronts: Gorgeous architecture, perfect photo spots, and hidden details for movie buffs.

Retail Therapy – No Coaster Required

Love shopping? Universal’s got you covered—whether you’re hunting for movie merch, geeky collectibles, or the perfect wizard robe.

• Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes: A colorful, chaotic joke shop—because pranks are serious business.
• SpongeBob StorePants: Fun, nautical, and loaded with SpongeBob goodies.
• Universal Studios Store: The ultimate place to stock up on Jurassic Park, Minions, and classic Universal merch.
• Film Vault: Movie buffs, this one’s for you! Ghostbusters, Jaws, The Mummy… all the classics.

Spectacular Shows

One of our favorite things to do at Universal Studios Florida without riding roller coasters is catching the fantastic live shows! They’re fun, immersive, and packed with great performances.

• The Bourne Stuntacular:  High-energy stunts + insane special effects = a must-see.
• Animal Actors on Location!: Hollywood’s furry (and feathered) stars take the stage to educate and entertain. Adorable and impressive.
• The Blues Brothers Show: A street performance with live music and dancing—classic, fun, and full of energy.
• Universal Orlando’s Horror Make-Up Show: Part comedy, part horror, all behind-the-scenes movie magic.

Special Events & Holidays

Visiting during a seasonal event? You’re in for an extra-special Universal experience! 

Throughout the year, Universal Studios Florida transforms for incredible celebrations that offer unique entertainment, food, and decorations. Some can’t-miss events include:

• Halloween Horror Nights: Haunted houses, scare zones, and themed treats take over the park after dark. Even if you’re not into haunts, the atmosphere alone is worth checking out—but keep in mind, it’s a separately ticketed event.
• Universal Mardi Gras: Beads, parades, concerts, and delicious Cajun food.
• Holidays at Universal Orlando: Christmas magic with Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s, festive decor in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and holiday cheer throughout the park!

No matter when you visit, there’s always something special happening at Universal Studios Florida!

Why Non Roller Coaster Universal Experiences Are Worth the Trip

You don’t have to be a thrill-seeker to have a great time at Universal Studios Florida! Whether you’re indulging in delicious food, taking in the scenery, shopping for unique souvenirs, or enjoying live entertainment, there’s plenty to do beyond the roller coasters.

So, if you’ve ever wondered whether Universal Studios Florida is worth visiting for non-riders, the answer is a resounding yes! There’s so much more to explore, experience, and enjoy—all at your own pace.

Some people chase screams and thrills, and others chase Butterbeer and good vibes. Which one are you?

Start planning your next vacation today with discounted admission to Universal Orlando Resort theme parks, available through Orlando Informer here.

Have any go-to tips for enjoying non-roller coaster Universal Studios Florida experiences? Share your favorites and connect with 180,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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Hotel Lobby

Universal Terra Luna Resort draws inspiration from the planetary elements of the universe, and it shows from the moment you walk through its doors. The lobby features modern rounded edges, circular light fixtures, and subtle planetary motifs, all bathed in natural light streaming through curved windows.

In this central space, you’ll find the front desk, the Universal Studios Store, and a variety of dining and drink options—but we’ll dive into those details a little later.

Universal Terra Luna Resort Rooms

Each room at Universal Terra Luna Resort features two queen beds and embraces the planetary theme in a sleek, subtle way. Even the wall mural channels celestial vibes without feeling overly themed. Design elements from the lobby carry through here with rounded furniture edges, circular pillows, curved windows, and even a rounded mirror. A calming color palette ties it all together, making it the perfect place to unwind.

Guests can choose between standard and pool-view rooms—but no matter the view, your stay is sure to be out of this world. It’s also worth noting that hearing-accessible and ADA-accessible rooms are available.

Universal Terra Luna Resort Dining

Guests at Universal Terra Luna Resort can enjoy four different dining options, each designed to fit your needs—whether you’re fueling up for a day in the parks or winding down after one. 

Omega Cafe and Market has you covered for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and everything in between—including grab-and-go options perfect for heading out to the parks. With plenty of seating for a relaxed meal and a well-organized market section for quick bites, it’s built for both convenience and comfort.

On our visit, we tried the Terra Burger, “Fly Me to the Moon” Wings, and the Hawaiian Moon Pizza—and let’s just say, they were all stellar.

The Terra Burger, the resort’s signature burger, absolutely delivered. It included juicy, well-seasoned patties topped with a sauce that was truly next-level and paired with perfectly salted sweet potato fries that we’d order again in a heartbeat.

The Hawaiian Moon Pizza was a standout, too, topped with pineapple, ham, peppers, onions, pomodoro sauce, and melty mozzarella. And the “Fly Me to the Moon” Wings? The perfect partner—because pizza and wings never go out of style.

One thing’s for sure here: portion sizes are generous, so you’re definitely getting great value.

Craving something poolside instead? Moonrise Bar and Moonrise Grill serve up tasty bites, refreshing drinks, and alcoholic beverages for guests 21 and up. 

In the lobby, Luna Bar offers a menu of craft cocktails alongside timeless classics. It’s the perfect place to kick off your vacation or toast to a successful day in the parks.

And when you’re completely wiped from a day of adventure, pizza delivery is ready to come to the rescue.

Pool & Amenities

We’ve already mentioned the pool bar, but let’s talk about the pool itself—it’s a showstopper! This zero-entry, 10,000-square-foot resort-style oasis practically screams vacation. It’s surrounded by plenty of lounge chairs and table seating, along with a splash pad, hot tub, fire pit, and more.

And for those who like to keep moving, even on vacation, Universal Terra Luna Resort offers a fitness center and on-site laundry facilities to keep your stay smooth and stress-free. Plus, with an arcade and a Universal Studios Store just steps away, fun and essentials are always within reach.

Ready to plan your getaway? Discover the hotels at Universal Orlando Resort and lock in your stay at the all-new Universal Terra Luna Resort right here!

Share your vacation planning tips with 180,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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Bread Box: Budget-Friendly Handcrafted Sandwiches

Bread Box Handcrafted Sandwiches offers classic deli-style favorites at affordable prices. Menu items, including salads and a variety of hearty handhelds, range from $13.99 to $16.99. Plus, each sandwich comes with your choice of chips or tater tots, adding even more value to your meal. 

Enjoy the Classic Italian sandwich with ham, calabrese salami, big eye pepperoni, provolone, lettuce, tomato, red onion, pepperoncini peppers, herbed oil, and vinegar with mayo on a house-baked roll. Looking for a plant-based bite? The Hot Vegan features portobello mushrooms, avocado, tomato, grilled onions, vegan pepper jack, arugula, truffle oil, and basil pesto in a multigrain roll.

Bend the Bao: Affordable Steamed Buns at Universal CityWalk

Bend the Bao serves steamed buns packed with rich ingredients for a quick and flavorful bite. Choose two bao for $12.49 or grab just one for $5.19. 

Indulge in beef brisket, topped with pickled red onion, cilantro, and avocado crema, or try the duck bao, featuring kimchi slaw, XO sauce, cilantro, and five-spice aioli. Vegetarians will love the roasted oyster mushroom bao, packed with spinach, sweet potato, caramelized onion, smoked ricotta, and tomatillo salsa. If you’re craving heat, the kimchi fried chicken bao delivers with butter, gochujang, cucumber, scallion, and sriracha aioli.

Moe’s Southwest Grill: Tex-Mex on a Budget at Universal CityWalk

Moe’s Southwest Grill is a reliable option, offering customizable Tex-Mex favorites without overspending. With over 570 locations nationwide, including 87 in Florida, this popular chain lets guests build their own burrito, bowl, quesadilla, nachos, salad, or taco at prices ranging from $12.49 to $13.49.

Early risers can fuel up before hitting the parks with the Moe’s Morning’s Breakfast Burrito or Bowl for just $10.99. 

Hot Dog Hall of Fame: Classic Stadium Eats for Less

Take your taste buds on a tour of America’s best ballpark-style eats at Hot Dog Hall of Fame! With regional favorites starting at $9.49, you can enjoy a classic stadium snack without the stadium price. 

Try the Seattle Combo ($10.49), a Hebrew National hot dog loaded with smoked onion spread, sauerkraut, jalapenos, sriracha hot chili sauce, and crispy potato sticks. Do you prefer to customize? The Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Combo ($10.49) lets you pick two toppings to make it your own. Each combo comes with chips or fries for a complete meal. 

Red Oven Pizza Bakery: Fresh Brick-Oven Pizza on a Budget

Head to Red Oven Pizza Bakery for a taste of authentic Neapolitan-style pizza. While whole pizzas range from $15.99 to $17.99, they’re large enough to split between two people, making it a budget-friendly pick for couples and groups. 

Enjoy classic combinations like Big-Eye Pepperoni, Margherita, Mushroom, Bianca, and more. Need a gluten-free option? Just ask for a gluten-free crust to enjoy your favorite flavors without worry. 

Dining at Universal CityWalk doesn’t have to drain your budget! With a bit of planning, you can enjoy affordable meals, quick bites, and budget-friendly restaurants while savoring some of the best flavors the entertainment district has to offer. Whether you’re grabbing a quick snack or sitting down for a meal, there are plenty of ways to stick to your budget at Universal CityWalk—so go ahead, dig in, and enjoy!

Discuss it all with 180,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. Plus, purchase discounted theme park admission here! And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic Merchandise

Step into 1920s Paris at Epic Universe’s The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, where the merchandise perfectly matches the era. At Les Galeries Mirifiques, you can dress the part with 1920s-era wizarding robes—complete with berets and neckties—along with stylish messenger bags featuring built-in wand holders. Plus, show off your Hogwarts house pride with an array of jewelry and accessories.

Over at Tour En Floo, the gift shop for Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry, discover the Métro-Floo collection. You’ll also find Time Turners and the British Ministry of Magic collection stocked with apparel and must-have wand accessories, including an official wand stand and harness, all adorned with the Ministry’s emblem.

And, of course, no trip to a Wizarding World location would be complete without a taste of something sweet. The French confectionery K. Rammelle is the go-to spot for Chocolate Frogs and other magical treats.

Shop Epic Universe’s SUPER NINTENDO WORLD

Power up your collection and wardrobe with a lineup of merchandise inspired by fan-favorite characters like Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Yoshi, Donkey Kong, and more! At 1-UP Factory and Mario Motors, you’ll find everything from character hats and headbands—featuring Chef Toad, Bowser Jr., and Princess Peach—to adorable plush of Mario, Luigi, and Donkey Kong. Plus, shop themed collections like the Mario Kart and Yoshi lines.

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD also delivers must-have food and beverage accessories, including a light-up Super Star Popcorn Bucket and a 1-UP Mushroom Sipper and Super Mushroom Sipper—perfect for refueling between adventures.

For exclusive new finds debuting at Epic Universe, head to Funky’s Fly ‘n’ Buy! This jungle-themed shop is the only place to score a banana-shaped fanny pack inspired by Donkey Kong’s favorite snack. You’ll also discover a massive Donkey Kong coffee mug, a Diddy Kong ticket holder, and plenty of other surprises.

How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk Collectibles

Gear up for your own Viking adventure at How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk in Epic Universe! At Viking Traders, you’ll find a selection of cosplay attire, including helmets, masks, shirts, shields, and swords—everything you need to look the part of a true dragon trainer. For even more rugged Viking essentials, swing by Hiccup’s Work Shop, where rustic swag awaits the most daring dragon riders.

Make sure to commemorate your conquest with a stop at Toothless’ Treasures, a must-visit for dragon lovers. Here, you’ll find blind-box collectible dragon toys, themed apparel, and plush inspired by the legendary dragons of Berk. Want to take home a dragon of your own? Adopt one with a special crossbody egg carrier, complete with a plush dragon inside! Plus, don’t miss the Toothless collection, offering everything from a popcorn bucket and zip-up jacket to wings, masks, plush headbands, and more.

And, of course, no Viking journey is complete without a few sweet spoils! Indulge in mystery chocolate dragon eggs, each hiding a trading card inside its dragon house-themed packaging, or snack on some delicious sheep marshmallows.

Dark Universe Merchandise at Epic Universe

Channel your favorite folklore anti-heroes with a collection of apparel, accessories, home décor, toys, and collectibles inspired by the legendary Universal Monsters. From Frankenstein’s Monster and the Bride of Frankenstein to Dracula, The Wolf Man, and the Creature from the Black Lagoon, there’s something for every fan. Plus, all-new collections pay tribute to Frankenstein Manor, home to Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, as well as Dr. Pretorius, The Burning Blade Tavern, and Curse of the Werewolf. These finds can be discovered at Pretorius’ Scientific Oddities, The Manor Storehouse, and Guild of Mystics in Dark Universe.

Want to take your monster transformation to the next level? Stop by the Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience for an elaborate face-paint makeover. Then, complete your look with cosplay attire from Pretorius’ Scientific Oddities, located right next to the makeup experience.

And don’t forget about the little monsters! The Bitty Monsters collection brings a playful twist to the classics with adorable apparel, headwear, collectible figures, and plush.

If you can’t wait to get your hands on some Epic Universe merchandise, stop by the Epic Universe Preview Center in CityWalk or browse Universal Orlando Resort’s online store to grab some items before the newly revealed merchandise becomes available.

Before you shop for Epic Universe gear, be sure to secure discounted theme park admission through Orlando Informer here. And don’t miss a moment of the excitement—sign up for our email newsletter for the latest Epic Universe updates!

What piece of Epic Universe merchandise are you excited to snag? Discuss it all with 180,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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As guests are meant to be completely immersed in Hiccup and Toothless’ world, everything about the Viking village of Berk is meant to be an attraction. Isle of Berk is inspired by the events of How to Train Your Dragon 2, when Berk has become an idyllic home to both Vikings and dragons alike. This makes the sequel the most essential film for understanding Berk’s current story—though watching the first movie is just as important for a solid foundation.

Fly High at Epic Universe’s How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk

Hiccup’s Wing Gliders is a family coaster that showcases Hiccup’s innate ingenuity and prepares future dragon riders. While the bond between Viking riders and their dragons is certainly a big part of How to Train Your Dragon 2, you’ll want to make sure to watch the spin-off series Dreamworks Dragons. It spans a lengthy eight seasons, but this will provide a true appreciation of how much dragon-riding has become tied to Viking culture.

Race into Action at Dragon Racer’s Rally

Dragon Racer’s Rally goes hand-in-hand with Wing Gliders in terms of what to watch, but it does get a little tricky. Canonically, dragon racing doesn’t begin until the events of the 2014 short film Dragons: Dawn of the Dragon Racers, so make sure to have this and Dragons: Riders of Berk, the first season of the streaming series, on your watch list.

Unleash the Action at Epic Universe’s How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk’s Fyre Drill

At Fyre Drill, Viking twins Ruffnut and Tuffnut are Berk’s trainers of aspiring riders in tests of skill. The tests mainly involve putting out fires with water cannons and are specific to Epic Universe, but it does pull from the training courses throughout the Dragons series. So be sure to underline the importance of watching as much as you can of the streaming show.

As you gear up for your Viking adventure, why stop there? Check out the must-watch movies before exploring Epic Universe’s Dark Universe, and level up with our top game picks for SUPER NINTENDO WORLD. Ready to make it all happen? Snag discounted theme park tickets here and lock in your epic visit!

How are you preparing for your trip to Epic Universe? Discuss it all with 180,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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And if you’re looking to blend in with the local witches and wizards, here’s a little French lesson—Butterbeer is called Bièraubeurre in French!

Butterbeer Epic Universe: What’s on the Menu?

Until now, we’ve been eagerly anticipating the Butterbeer crepe from Café L’air De La Sirène and the chance to enjoy a classic Butterbeer from the Bièraubeurre Cart. But today, we got an even sweeter surprise—a first look at the full lineup of treats inspired by this beloved beverage coming to Epic Universe! Guests will be able to indulge in flavored macarons, truffles, candy bars, and caramel-filled Butterbeer-flavoured chocolate barrels.

And for those looking to sip Butterbeer in style, Epic Universe will introduce a stunning new stemmed stein, making it the ultimate collector’s item for Wizarding World fans!

Butterbeer Season at Universal Orlando Resort

This announcement couldn’t have come at a better time, as Butterbeer Season is in full swing at Universal Orlando Resort! Running through May 31, this seasonal celebration offers exclusive Butterbeer merchandise and specialty treats, making it the perfect way to enjoy this Wizarding World drink ahead of Epic Universe’s grand opening.

Which treat are you excited to try? Discuss your thoughts with 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook and snag your discounted theme park admission here. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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Croissant Moon Bakery: Affordable Breakfast in Universal Islands of Adventure

Start the day with the Sunrise Breakfast – served daily until 11 a.m. – that won’t break the bank. Choose from two cheese and egg croissants ($8.99): one with ham and one with bacon. Prefer something different? The bakery also offers a ham, egg, and cheese empanada at the same price. For a lighter bite, grab a croissant, danish, or croffle at a slightly lower cost.

Three Broomsticks: Budget-Friendly Dining in The Wizarding World

No trip to Islands of Adventure is complete without a stop at Three Broomsticks in Hogsmeade. While some signature meals are pricier, you can still find affordable options. The Kid’s Fish & Chips is a smaller portion of the British staple, perfect for a light meal. Priced at $9.49, the Kid’s Fish & Chips includes fish, chips, and a side of grapes.

Fire Eater’s Grill: Quick Bites at Islands of Adventure

Fire Eater’s Grill serves delicious, budget-friendly Mediterranean-inspired options in The Lost Continent. The Traditional Gyro Platter ($13.49) features seasoned meat wrapped in warm pita bread with lettuce, tomato, onion, and tzatziki sauce, served with chips. The Falafel Gyro Platter ($13.49) is a great vegetarian option with the same delicious toppings. If you’re looking for a quick grab-and-go snack, look no further than the Pita with Tzatziki ($4.79). 

Green Eggs and Ham Cafe: Fun and Affordable Tots at Islands of Adventure

Over in Seuss Landing, Green Eggs and Ham Cafe offers whimsical and tasty loaded tater tots that satisfy your hunger without stretching your budget. The quick-service restaurant offers six crispy and golden-loaded tater tot dishes, ranging in price and toppings. 

A few of my favorites include the Pizza Tots, Buffalo Chicken Tots, and Carnitas Tots – all priced below $12.49. For a plant-based option, Green Eggs and Ham Cafe serves up Vegan Pizza Tots, featuring tater tots topped with plant-based pepperoni, sausage, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese.

Exploring Universal Islands of Adventure on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing delicious meals. With plenty of affordable dining options, from crispy loaded tater tots to grab-and-go pastries, you can fuel your day without overspending. Stick to these budget-friendly tips and savor the best flavors of the Islands of Adventure while keeping your wallet in check!

Discuss it all with 180,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. Plus, purchase discounted theme park admission here! And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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This exciting news arrives just in time for Butterbeer Season, running from March 1 to May 31, 2025, a celebration dedicated to this beloved beverage. Returning favorites from last year’s event include the Ice Lolly and Gummies, along with a souvenir Butterbeer Cart. Of course, you can still enjoy your beloved Butterbeer in its classic drink form—frozen, cold, or hot—plus other treats like Butterbeer-flavored hard-pack ice cream, soft-serve ice cream, fudge, and potted cream.

Guests can also grab limited-time merchandise to show off their love for this drink.

While celebrating Butterbeer Season, guests can also experience next-generation wands and new spellcasting locations – and the best part is, these magical enhancements will stick around even after the season ends. Learn more about these recently announced wand updates here.

With exclusive treats and returning favorites, there’s no better time to indulge in the flavors of The Wizarding World. Be sure to stop by Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure before Butterbeer Season ends on May 31, 2025.

What’s your favorite version of this classic Wizarding World drink? Discuss your thoughts with 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook and snag your discounted theme park admission here. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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This enhancement is coming to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and the highly anticipated Epic Universe, Universal Orlando Resort’s newest theme park opening on May 22, 2025.

This all-new collection features four unique wand designs currently exclusive to Universal Orlando Resort, each accompanied by a spell map detailing where you can cast spells throughout the park. Plus, you’ll find instructions on how to elevate your wand magic even further with Universal Play.

Spell-Casting Locations: Where to Use Your Wand at Universal Orlando Resort

These new Wizarding World of Harry Potter spell locations using interactive wands can be found at the following spots: 

• Hogsmeade: The Dueling Club Tent – Guests will try to bring a dueling dummy to life
• Hogsmeade: The Owl Post – Guests will try to freeze pixies darting across the window and hiding behind packages
• Diagon Alley: Ariadne’s Spinners – Guests will try to repel spiders on newspaper-covered windows
• Diagon Alley: Knockturn Alley Sky – Guests will try to control a storm or calm the sky
• Diagon Alley: Knockturn Alley Staircase – Guests will try to conjure their patronus to dodge a dementor

It’s important to note that the first-generation interactive wands will continue to work as they always have, and these new sites are in addition to the existing spell-casting locations already available at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Be sure to check out the full list of current locations here.

How The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Wands Connect to the Universal Orlando App

With connectivity to Universal Orlando Resort’s free app, guests can create their own Wizard Profile with their personal Wizard Name, an avatar, Patronus, and their Hogwarts House. As they cast spells and complete challenges, they’ll earn points for their house, track their House’s progress in real-time, and even follow other wizards’ profiles to stay connected and motivated. Plus, the House Cup is awarded virtually every day!

The app also offers exclusive adventures and achievements for witches and wizards to complete, along with a digital map to help navigate all the magical experiences waiting to be discovered.

Coming Soon: Epic Universe’s The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic

The upgrade arrives just in time for Universal’s newest installment of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic at Epic Universe. This area expands The Wizarding World by transporting guests into the magical side of 1920s Paris from the Fantastic Beasts films and the iconic British Ministry of Magic from the Harry Potter series. Plus, it will introduce 14 additional wand locations, giving witches and wizards even more opportunities to cast spells.

With these exciting wand upgrades, Universal Orlando Resort is making the Wizarding World more interactive and immersive than ever. Be sure to pick up your wand and experience the magic for yourself!

Discuss these developments with 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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The Ultimate Food Countdown for Universal Epic Universe

Epic Universe opens on May 22, 2025, and plans to serve up a delicious selection of dining experiences. From immersive themed restaurants to must-try snacks and grab-and-go bites, there’s something to satisfy every craving.

Get ready for a feast of flavors—here are the most anticipated food and dining options!

#11 | Le Gobelet Noir (The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic)

Le Gobelet Noir is a hidden haven for dark magic witches and wizards within The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic. The menu features a selection of soups, salads, hearty entrées, and decadent desserts. 

With its intriguing atmosphere and elevated fare, Le Gobelet Noir promises a one-of-a-kind dining experience for those looking to explore the darker corners of the wizarding world.

Menu Highlights

• Alchemist’s Platter: Smoked sausage, potato and cheese pierogies, and pickled eggs
• Lentil Stew: A hearty stew of lentils, vegan bacon, and root vegetables served with artisan bread

#10 | Pizza Moon (Celestial Park)

Pizza Moon is a quick-service eatery housed in a transformed Victorian theater, offering a stellar selection of gourmet pizzas.

Whether you’re craving something classic and comforting or a cosmic twist on a favorite, Pizza Moon promises an out-of-this-world dining experience.

Menu Highlights

• A Trip to Vesuvio: Fromage de lune, pepperoni, fennel sausage, roasted peppers, and caramelized onions, topped with cherry peppers, Calabrian chili, and fresh arugula with a drizzle of hot honey
• Space Cowboy: Tangy BBQ sauce tender rotisserie chicken, pickled red onions, Castelvetrano olives, and BBQ potato chips

#9 | Toadstool Cafe (SUPER NINTENDO WORLD)

Step into Toadstool Café, where Chef Toad is busy crafting delightful dishes straight from the Mushroom Kingdom. This immersive, fungi-themed eatery brings Super Mario’s world to life with playful décor and digital screens displaying the action inside Chef Toad’s kitchen and the bustling landscape outside.

The menu offers a variety of Mario-inspired dishes, from fresh salads and savory pasta to themed burgers and whimsical desserts, making it a must-visit for gamers and food lovers alike!

Menu Highlights

• Piranha Plant Caprese – Tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, asparagus, and basil pesto over mixed greens with shaved radish and apple vinaigrette
• Luigi’s Burger (Pesto Grilled Chicken) – Grilled chicken with basil pesto, Swiss cheese, green pepper, and spinach on a brioche bun, served with truffle fries
• Bowser’s Fireball Challenge – 1lb. meatball with mozzarella, mushroom marinara, Bowser puff pastry, and hot sauce on the side

#8 | Spit Fyre Grill (How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk)

Complete with views of the Fyre Drill water boat ride, Spit Fyre Grill serves up hearty, flame-seared meals. This dragon-inspired eatery offers a variety of grain and rice bowls, perfect for Vikings of all appetites.

To complement the feast, guests can enjoy Gobber’s Mead, Stoick’s Ale, or a refreshing Strawberry Lime Cider. Whether you’re fueling up for the journey ahead or just enjoying the sights of Berk, Spit Fyre Grill delivers a bold and flavorful dining experience worthy of a Viking feast!

Menu Highlights

• Stoick’s Steak Bowl: Sticky rice, tenderloin steak, roasted balsamic mushrooms, sweet potato hash, Manchego cheese, horseradish sauce
• Astrid’s Shrimp Bowl: Sticky rice, tropical BBQ shrimp, grilled tajin corn, charred broccolini, shaved parmesan, raspberry vinaigrette
• Valka’s Vegan Bowl: Kale spring mix blend, bean salad, pineapple salsa, candy beets, vegan feta, mango & mint vinaigrette

#7 | Mead Hall (How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk)

Towering at 16 feet 7 inches, Mead Hall’s massive faux entrance doors set the stage for an epic Viking feast. Dine like legends with a hearty spread of meats, fish, sandwiches, and decadent desserts. The drink menu features meads, ciders, and ales—perfect for raising a glass to adventure.

With stunning architecture and immersive design, Mead Hall promises to transport you to another time and place, making you feel like a true Viking!

Menu Highlights

• Nordic Harvest Salad: Kale, arugula, red cabbage, ancient grains, blueberries, radishes, apples, trail mix, raspberry walnut vinaigrette
• Thawfest Platter: Wildberry BBQ glazed chicken drumsticks, grilled salmon, sausage links, roasted carrots, Cipollini onions, Nordic fries, side sauces
• Valka’s Vegan Burger: Ancient grains patty with mushrooms and leeks, smoked berry aioli, arugula, pickled cucumbers, pumpernickel kaiser bun, Nordic fries

#6 | The Oak & Star Tavern (Celestial Park)

Gather around the fiery hearth of an ancient, starlit oak tree and savor smoky, mouthwatering barbecue at The Oak & Star Tavern. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy tender brisket, savory ribs, and flame-kissed specialties while soaking in the celestial-inspired surroundings.

Whether you’re sharing a feast under the glowing canopy or unwinding with a craft cocktail or cold beer by the fire, this stellar dining experience promises bold flavors and immersive ambiance.

Menu Highlights

• Brûlée Hawaiian Mango Bread: Mango bread, pineapple, strawberry, whipped cream, toasted coconut
• Oak & Star Sausage, Egg & Cheese Sandwich: Jalapeño cheddar sausage, eggs, cheddar cheese, mayo ketchup, pan sobao bun
• Slow Smoked Brisket: 14-hour smoked brisket, sweet BBQ sauce, homemade pickles on a pan sobao bun

#5 | The Burning Blade Tavern (Dark Universe)

Dare to enter The Burning Blade Tavern, a Dark Universe quick-service eatery inspired by the 1931 Frankenstein film. The iconic windmill outside bursts into flames several times an hour, preceded by Darkmoor’s bell, signaling a monster’s approach and an electrifying preshow.

Feast on burgers, wings, bratwursts, pretzels, and a selection of specialty beverages, all while soaking in the eerie ambiance of Darkmoor’s legendary monster-hunting haven.

Menu Highlights

• Hunter’s Garlic Stake: Cheesy garlic pretzel with garlic dipping sauce
• Burning Cheddar Bites: Crispy fried poppers
• Burning Blade Burger: Beef patty with a spicy tomato jam spread and jalapeño bacon

#4 | The Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant (Celestial Park)

Step into The Blue Dragon, where Chinese, Japanese, and Thai cuisine come together in an immersive night market setting. 

Enjoy signature drinks like the Khaosan Boba, a Thai-inspired milk tea with coffee boba and frothy foam, or the Chengdu Dream, a vibrant baijiu-based cocktail with tropical flavors and an orchid garnish.

With stunning design, bold flavors, and unique drinks, The Blue Dragon is a must-visit dining spot in Celestial Park.

Menu Highlights

• Tonkotsu Ramen: Ramen noodles in pork broth, topped with chashu pork, tare egg, shiitake mushrooms, and togarashi oil
• Smashed Cucumbers: Cucumbers tossed in zesty dragon sauce with fresh cilantro, crunchy peanuts, and a sprinkle of Sichuan dust
• Snowflake Potstickers: Pork potstickers served with dragon sauce

#3 | Das Stakehaus (Dark Universe)

Das Stakehaus puts a playful spin on a vampire’s classic weakness—the stake. Operated by loyal familiars, the restaurant’s gothic decor and striking artwork reimagine vampires as the heroes of their own stories, weaving Darkmoor’s rich history into the dining experience.

Sink your teeth into hearty fare, including kebabs, burgers, sandwiches, and ribs. 

Menu Highlights

• Stakes: Meal on a stake with a choice of Fish on a Stake (salmon), Bird on a Stake (chicken), or Bits and Pieces (mushroom brisket meatloaf) served with roasted veggies and charred green onion mashed potatoes
• “Blood” Orange Chicken Sandwich: Flash-fried marinated chicken breast tossed in blood orange sauce served in a black bun with tangy pickles, slaw, and crispy fries
• Our Favorite Vegan Familiar’s Stuffed Cabbage: Impossible meat, cabbage leaves, bell pepper tomato sauce, and beet bucatini

#2 | Café L’air De La Sirène (The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic)

Café L’air De La Sirène, a French-inspired wizarding café, will serve freshly baked goods, sandwiches, plats du jour, and indulgent desserts paired with Butterbeer or a selection of beer, cocktails, and fine French wines. 

This elegantly designed quick-service spot is a visual delight, featuring intricate marble carvings and hidden fantastic beasts woven into its tile and mosaic details.

A true showstopper is the towering dessert display, crafted from nearly 2,000 decorative cream puffs—a must-see for anyone with a sweet tooth!

Menu Highlights

• Butterbeer Crêpe: Butterbeer crepe with shortbread cookie butter, Bavarian cream, Butterbeer cream, strawberries, Butterbeer drizzle, and a Butterbeer shortbread cookie
• Quiche Lorraine: Egg custard baked in a flaky pie crust filled with crispy bacon, gruyère cheese, and caramelized onions with mornay sauce and a side of fresh berries topped with a lavender honey drizzle
• Poulet à la Provençal: Roasted half chicken with tomato olive vinaigrette and served with a side of roasted potatoes and haricots verts

#1 | Atlantic (Celestial Park)

Blending elegance with oceanic wonder, Atlantic is an exquisite surf-and-turf dining experience in a Victorian-style aquarium setting. Savor expertly crafted dishes while taking in breathtaking views of Celestial Park’s serene fountains and lush landscapes through the restaurant’s expansive glass windows.

Enhancing its aquatic theme, fish-shaped bio-mechanical lanterns shimmer overhead, creating an enchanting undersea illusion. 

For a quick yet sophisticated escape, Aquaria Bar serves a refined selection of cocktails in a stylish, relaxing setting—perfect for unwinding after busy park days.

Menu Highlights

• Sea Bass: Sea Bass with carrot mochi, sugar snap peas, lemongrass broth, starfruit slices
• Romesco Romanesco: Oven-roasted Romanesco, wild mushrooms, and pea tendrils on a bed of fregola and hazelnut romesco
• Landlubber’s Snickerdoodle Loot: Snickerdoodle cake served in a beach pail with cookie butter ganache, surrounded by Biscoff sand and gummy sharks

More Dining Options at Epic Universe

This list focuses on the restaurants we know the most about. But don’t worry, there will be more snack stands, carts, and quick-service spots, perfect for a grab-and-go treat between adventures.

While details are still emerging, here’s what we know about some of these other great dining options so far:

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic

• Bièraubeurre Cart: Parisian twist on Butterbeer, serving cold, frozen, and hot variations, along with Butterbeer ice cream and fudge
• Bar Moonshine: Wizarding sports bar featuring U.S. Quidditch team decor, serving exclusive beers, wines, and magical cocktails in a cozy setting
• K. Rammelle: A whimsical candy shop inspired by Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald, offering a variety of magical confections much like Honeydukes

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD

• Yoshi’s Snack Island: Yoshi’s Island-inspired stand serving fun treats like the Green Shell Calzone and Yoshi’s Smoothie, a refreshing apple-honeydew blend
• Turbo Boost Treats: Grab-and-go snack spot serving quick bites and drinks for racers on the move
• Bubbly Barrel: Likely in Donkey Kong Country, this tropical-themed stand serves refreshing drinks, including the Tropical Banana DK Crush Float

Dark Universe

• De Lacey’s Cottage: Frankenstein-inspired eatery offering cinnamon bites, pretzels, ice cream, and twisted taters

How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk

• Hooligan’s Grog & Gruel: Racing-themed Viking eatery known for its Mac and Cheese Cones—hollowed-out loaves of bread filled with creamy mac and cheese

Celestial Park

• Comet Dogs: Stellar hot dog stand, serving classic and not-so-classic variations
• Frosty Moon: Cooling refreshment stop with delicious ice cream treats
• Celestiki: Tropical-inspired lounge with tiki-style drinks and bites
• Star Sui Bao: Pan-Asian food stand, likely specializing in steamed buns and dumplings
• The Plastered Owl: A whimsical tavern featuring a majestic tree that flows with beer, creating a truly magical drinking experience
• Bar Zenith: Cosmic cocktail bar serving out-of-this-world drinks, including the Meteor Strike, topped with a flaming sugar cube, and the Meridian Bramble, a gin-based blackberry delight
• Meteor Astro Pub: Laid-back pub offering beer, burgers, and cocktails

Universal’s Epic Universe Hotel Dining Options

Three new Universal hotels will enhance the Epic Universe experience, each with several dining options:

Universal Stella Nova Resort (Opened January 21, 2025)

• Cosmos Café & Market: Quick-service spot with American favorites for all meals
• Galaxy Bar & Grill: Poolside dining with burgers, quesadillas, salads, and a full bar
• Nova Bar: Lobby bar specializing in craft cocktails, beer, and wine
• Pizza Delivery: Fresh pizzas delivered straight to your room

Universal Terra Luna Resort (Opening March 25, 2025)

• Omega Café & Market: Three-meal quick-service restaurant with American classics
• Moonrise Bar & Grill: Poolside eats and drinks, including beer, wine, and cocktails
• Luna Bar: Craft cocktail lounge with beer and wine selections
• Pizza Delivery: Convenient in-room pizza service

Helios Grand Hotel (Opening May 22, 2025)

• Flora Taverna: Full-service restaurant featuring a breakfast buffet, Mediterranean dishes, pizza, and gyros
• Aurora Market: Grab-and-go with coffee, paninis, wraps, salads, and gelato
• Lotus Lagoon: Poolside bar and grill with burgers, sandwiches, salads, and cocktails
• Bar Helios: Rooftop lounge with sliders, tapas, gyros, and panoramic views of the park
• Room Service: In-room dining for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or late-night cravings

These three resorts bring a mix of casual, grab-and-go, and upscale dining, ensuring plenty of options for every guest!

Epic Universe Dining: Savor the Flavor

Is your mouth watering just thinking about these epic eats? It should be! With so many delicious dining spots on the way—and even more still under wraps—there’ll be plenty to feast on once Epic Universe opens its doors. Stay tuned as more tasty tidbits roll in, and get ready for your first bite of adventure!

One visit won’t be enough to sample it all, so consider this your official excuse to keep coming back! With endless foodie adventures waiting, the only question is—where will you take your first bite?

Start planning your next vacation today with discounted admission to Epic Universe and other Universal Orlando Resort theme parks, available through Orlando Informer here.

What are you excited to try? Discuss it all with 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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Today, we’re going to talk about the must-haves. Of course, when you first set foot in any Universal Orlando Resort store, it’s easy to feel like everything is a must-buy—but let’s break it down to the true “can’t leave the park without this” essentials.

Lanyards: Fun and Functional Universal Orlando Souvenir

Lanyards. Yes, you need one. Here’s why—they’re not just a fun way to rep your favorite Universal Orlando Resort attraction or character, but they’re also incredibly practical! With a wide variety of designs and attachable pouches, lanyards make it easy to keep your park ticket handy and quickly access lockers when boarding and exiting rides.

From Minions to Mardi Gras, the lanyard department has you covered. Plus, once you get home, they are a great way to keep your keys nice and visible. Another great reason to purchase a lanyard is…

Pins: Affordable Universal Orlando Collectible

Pins are a fun, affordable way to bring home a piece of your favorite attractions and characters! You’ll find them at shops all across the parks—just pick your favorites, pin them to your lanyard, and show off your flair in style.

Universal Orlando Resort offers pin trading at a dedicated cart in Universal Studios Florida, located near the NBC Media Center. Here, you’ll find a lanyard filled with pins ready for trading! The system is simple: trade based on pin size—swap a larger pin for two smaller ones or exchange pins of the same size. It’s a fun and interactive way to expand your collection while exploring the park. Once you’re home, display your pins on a corkboard or keep them on your lanyard, ready for your next adventure!

Toys and Stuffed Animals: Keepsakes You’ll Want to Cuddle

Sure, some people prefer souvenirs they can use every day, but let’s be honest—sometimes, you just need that perfect plushie or collectible toy! The Minions shops are packed with fun finds, including the “E-Liminator X” blaster, a replica of the tool used on Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast. Plus, there’s a plushie for every fanbase, from classic Universal Monsters to beloved Super Mario characters that will appear in the upcoming Epic Universe.

Apparel: Wearable Universal Orlando Souvenirs

From hats to socks and everything in between, Universal has you covered—literally! You’ll find T-shirts and sweatshirts for every fanbase, plus exclusive limited-time merch, like the SNL 50th Anniversary collection currently in the parks! Seasonal events bring even more must-have apparel, from Mardi Gras to Halloween Horror Nights. I would also be remiss if I didn’t mention The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

If you are a true Harry Potter fan, you must at least consider getting your house robes. While they’re a bit pricier than a T-shirt, the quality is top-notch—and they even come with a hidden wand pocket inside!

For truly unique Wizarding World apparel, head to Madam Malkin’s Robes for All Occasions in Diagon Alley. Always dreamed of owning Hermione’s Yule Ball gown or Dumbledore’s iconic robe and hat? Now’s your chance! While you’re there, make sure you interact with the mirror in the shop—it always has some choice words for shoppers! For those drawn to the darker side of magic, take a peek inside Borgin and Burkes, where you’ll find Bellatrix Lestrange’s dress and Death Eater masks.

Accessories: Add Some Flair to Your Look

And what’s apparel without accessories? Many shops carry fun extras like bracelets, anklets, and themed jewelry featuring your favorite characters and attractions. And let’s not forget bags!

Speaking of bags, Universal carries a large assortment, from fanny packs to roomy pouches, perfect for carrying all your other souvenirs as you shop. But if you’re looking for something fun, functional, and a guaranteed compliment magnet, let’s talk Loungefly backpacks.

If I won the lottery, I probably wouldn’t tell anyone… but there would be signs—like me owning every single Loungefly in the park! Universal carries a line of exclusive Loungefly backpacks for every fandom, from Jurassic World to Cat in the Hat and even classics like Jaws and Back to the Future. Some of them even have detachable accessories to change up the look! For example, the Gizmo Loungefly, available around the holidays, has a snap-on Santa hat that you can remove after the holiday season. (Or hey, leave it on if you like for some festive fun throughout the year!)

I also have to mention shoulder pets. What’s a shoulder pet, you might ask? If you were at Halloween Horror Nights last year, you probably saw people strolling around with a Lil’ Boo pumpkin perched on their shoulder. That little guy became the must-have item of the season. These companions attach via a magnet under your shirt, so there’s no damage to your clothes!

Beyond Lil’ Boo, Universal also offers a Stay-Puft Marshmallow Man and, more recently, two animatronic shoulder pets straight from the Wizarding World of Harry Potter—a snowy owl and a mischievous Niffler from Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.

We’ve all seen a certain very popular head accessory at another Orlando park, but now Universal has launched its own line of themed headbands! The collection so far is centered around the highly anticipated SUPER NINTENDO WORLD at Epic Universe, featuring Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Yoshi, and Toad. Plus, there are even Minion-themed designs!

Wands: The Most Magical Universal Orlando Souvenir

Last but not least, wands. And before you say, “But what if I’m not a Harry Potter fan?”—don’t worry! Universal offers more than just Wizarding World wands.

Harry Potter interactive wands are undeniably magical, allowing you to cast spells throughout Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade Village, and with Epic Universe’s Ministry of Magic on the horizon, there’s no doubt even more spell-casting experiences will be added. With options representing different Harry Potter characters, plus display stands, you can build your own personal collection and show them off at home!

Universal has also introduced reactive bubble wands for Jurassic World, Trolls, and Minions! These whimsical wands can blow bubbles and interact with the Mega Movie Parade, other wands, and some of the bubble carts around the park.

Honorable Mentions: More Fun Universal Orlando Souvenirs

There are so many fun souvenirs at Universal that would appeal to just about anyone, but I wanted to highlight a few that might get overlooked. They may not seem like must-haves at first, but they offer great value and can be useful both in and out of the park.

A standard popcorn bucket is available at any stand selling this treat, and it comes with discounted refills throughout your visit. But if you’ve been around the parks, you’ve probably noticed the souvenir buckets shaped like Minions, Toothless, and more. Not only do they come with the same refill perks, but let’s be real—they look way cooler than a standard popcorn bucket!

Souvenir sippers include the same deal. They come in a variety of your favorite characters like Optimus Prime, Spongebob, and T-Rex, and the first fill is FREE. You can find more information about refillable cups and popcorn buckets here. 

One of the best low-cost mementos is the Collectible Medallions, available in various locations throughout the parks—including special edition designs for events like Mardi Gras. Another classic budget-friendly option? Pressed pennies! You’ll find machines all over the parks, allowing you to imprint a design featuring your favorite attractions and characters.

Last but not least, ride photos, caricatures, and other photo options like Shutterbuttons in Diagon Alley can be fun ways to take home great memories!

And if you’ve made it through the entire day without picking up a souvenir, don’t worry—you’ve got one last chance at It’s a Wrap near the exit of Universal Studios Florida or Port Provisions in Islands of Adventure.

Whew! With so many different Universal Orlando Resort souvenirs to choose from, how do you pick just one? No matter your favorite character or attraction, you’ll find something special to take home.

What are your favorite Universal Orlando Resort souvenirs? Discuss it all with 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. Plus, purchase discounted theme park admission here! And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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In case you missed it, Universal Horror Unleashed is a first-of-its-kind year-round horror experience designed to keep your adrenaline pumping no matter the season. Haunting the 20-acre expansion of the AREA15 entertainment district, this attraction will feature four haunted houses: Universal Monsters, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, Scarecrow: The Reaping, and Blumhouse’s The Exorcist: Believer.

“When you step foot inside this building, you’re going to have the most immersive, most horrifying experience of your entire life,” said Show Director Nate Stevenson.

Legend has it that this eerie Las Vegas warehouse holds ancient artifacts, their cursed energy unleashing nightmares that bring these four horror stories to life. And with seasonal events, spine-chilling experiences, and exclusive merchandise, there will always be something new lurking in the shadows.

Are you brave enough to step inside? Discuss this update with 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

The post Universal Horror Unleashed: Opening Date ANNOUNCED appeared first on Orlando Informer.

Although we can’t experience them firsthand just yet, here’s a look at the most anticipated rides coming to Universal Epic Universe based on what we know so far.

The Ultimate Ride Countdown for Universal Epic Universe

Epic Universe is set to deliver an incredible array of experiences—thrilling attractions, jaw-dropping shows, interactive play areas, world-class entertainment, unforgettable dining, and more. But today, we’re zeroing in on the heart-pounding rides that put you in the action—strapping in, buckling up, and racing along the track. 

When the park opens on May 22, 2025, guests will have 11 incredible rides to experience. From fun-filled excitement to hold-onto-your-seat, pulse-pounding, unforgettably amazing, and out-of-this-world exhilarating, here’s the lineup!

#11 | Constellation Carousel (Celestial Park)

The 11th ride on our list is Constellation Carousel. This beautiful all-ages experience reimagines the classic merry-go-round with celestial creatures like lions, dragons, and peacocks that rotate 360 degrees and rise six feet in the air. The ceiling showcases a Star Tracker with rotating celestial patterns, while the Mesmerizer creates a stunning ribbon cone effect overhead.

With smaller turntables inside the main one, this isn’t your average carousel—it’s dynamic, imaginative, and perfect for everyone in your party. Although not space-themed and working on a more basic carousel turntable, you might compare it to Walt Disney World’s Prince Charming Regal Carrousel at Magic Kingdom Park for the similar intricate designs and whimsical figures, though Constellation Carousel will be an all-new, exciting experience. You’ll definitely want to check it out!

Height Requirement: Children under 48″ must have a supervising companion; hand-held infants are not allowed.

#10 | Fyre Drill (How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk)

Looking to beat the heat? The 10th ride on our list is for you! Fyre Drill is a family-friendly, interactive boat ride where Viking twins Ruffnut and Tuffnut have turned Berk’s Fyre Skööl into a playful water-based competition.

Guests use onboard water cannons to aim at flame-like targets and other boats. You can shoot water over 28 feet to hit targets and other Viking ships! This ride blends the relaxed pace of classic boat rides like Jungle Cruise with the competitive fun of interactive attractions like Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast—all with the prospect of getting drenched! Fyre Drill is a surefire way to cool you down on a hot Florida day.

Height Requirement: Children under 48″ must have a supervising companion; hand-held infants are not allowed. 

#9 | Yoshi’s Adventure (SUPER NINTENDO WORLD)

Ranked as our ninth most anticipated ride, Yoshi’s Adventure is a charming, family-friendly journey through the Mushroom Kingdom. Riders join Yoshi on a quest to find glowing eggs, bringing the beloved character and his adventures to life.

This ride is all about theming—vivid colors, intricate details, and so much to take in. It’s designed to captivate young kids, whose faces will light up with wonder, and parents will love watching them soak up the magic. I adore slow rides with beautiful theming and plenty to see, and I can’t wait to experience this with my toddler. I know he’s going to love every second of it!

With interactive elements and scenic views of this mega-themed land, Yoshi’s Adventure is a slow-moving ride perfect for relaxing and taking in all the sights and sounds. This is the ride you enjoy after a day full of thrills, taking it all in at a slower pace.

Height Requirement: 34” minimum (supervising companion required for guests under 48”).

#8 | Dragon Racer’s Rally (How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk)

A high-flying adventure, Dragon Racer’s Rally brings Berk’s favorite pastime, Dragon Racing, to life—and it’s number eight on our list.

Riders will soar up to 67 feet on Viking-crafted dragon-riding trainers, performing thrilling aerobatics and barrel rolls. With the ability to customize your experience from “mild” to “wild” by adjusting how much your “dragon” flips, this ride tests your skills as you practice to become a dragon-racing champion.

Some might underestimate this kind of attraction, thinking it’s tamer than a traditional coaster—but don’t be fooled. For those who aren’t natural thrill-seekers, flipping and spinning through the air can actually feel more intense. Since this ride type isn’t common, it offers a unique thrill. The innovative concept and replayability could make this a ride you’ll want to experience again and again!

Height Requirement: Riders must be at least 48” tall.

#7 | Mine-Cart Madness (SUPER NINTENDO WORLD)

Mine-Cart Madness comes in at number seven on our most anticipated rides list. 

On this new family coaster, you’ll join Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong on a wild adventure through the jungle to protect the Golden Banana. Just like in Donkey Kong Country, your mine cart will leap across gaps in the track—a cutting-edge feature that’s sure to surprise and delight both fans and newcomers alike.

While this sounds thrilling, the lower height requirement means it’s designed to be a perfect family experience. It could easily become many young Nintendo fans’ first roller coaster adventure. 

Height Requirement: Riders must be at least 40” tall to board Mine-Cart Madness, with a supervising companion required for guests under 48”. Hand-held infants are not allowed.

#6 | Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge (SUPER NINTENDO WORLD)

Coming in at number six on our list is another attraction I’m really excited about! Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge brings the iconic racing video game to life. With special goggles, riders team up with Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach to take on Bowser’s team. You’ll navigate underwater worlds, soar through clouds, collect coins, and launch shells in this revolutionary racing adventure.

Fans of competitive rides like MEN IN BLACK Alien Attack or Toy Story Mania are sure to love this video game-inspired adventure. Its blend of storytelling and interactive elements also gives me a bit of Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure vibes from EPCOT.

While it’s a racing-themed ride, don’t expect high speeds—it’s more about the immersive environments, exciting gameplay, and all the details you can take in. It’s going to be a must-ride for gamers!

Height Requirement: Riders must be at least 40” tall to experience Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, with a supervising companion required for guests under 48”. 

#5 | Hiccup’s Wing Gliders (How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk)

The fifth most anticipated ride, Hiccup’s Wing Gliders, lets guests soar through the skies at speeds of up to 45 mph on a dragon-inspired contraption crafted by Hiccup.

With thrilling dives and sweeping turns alongside Hiccup and Toothless, riders will feel the true spirit of dragon flight. This family coaster offers mid-level thrills—perfect for a first ‘big coaster’ or anyone seeking a fun, high-speed ride.

Online discussions and fan conversations often compare this attraction to Hagrid’s Magical Motorbike Adventure—a massive compliment, considering Hagrid’s is one of the best coasters in the world. While this ride may be less intense, it’s shaping up to be just as immersive, dynamic, and fun. The fact that it’s being compared to Hagrid’s speaks volumes about the excitement and creativity behind it.

Height Requirement: Riders must be at least 40” tall to experience Hiccup’s Wing Gliders, with a supervising companion required for guests under 48”. Handheld infants are not allowed.

#4 | Curse of the Werewolf (Dark Universe)

Coming in at our fourth placement is Curse of the Werewolf, a unique spinning coaster that perfectly blends storytelling with family-friendly thrills.

The adventure starts at the Guild of Mystics’ wagon camp, where you’ll get an ominous warning from a mysterious seer about an ancient curse. Then you’re off, racing through the forest with werewolves in hot pursuit! The best part? Since it’s a free-spin coaster, every ride is totally different. You’ll spin through eerie tunnels and past haunting figures during the two-minute journey, reaching speeds up to 37 mph. The suspense of turning around and possibly coming face-to-face with a monstrous werewolf adds a whole new level of excitement.

Curse of the Werewolf’s synchronized launches and werewolf encounters promise an incredibly immersive experience. I have a feeling this is going to be one of those attractions that draws people back again and again. We’ll have to wait until opening day to know for sure, but I think Curse of the Werewolf will surprise and delight those willing to embrace its eerie charm.

Height Requirement: Guests must be at least 40” tall to ride.

#3 | Stardust Racers (Celestial Park)

Thrill seekers, get ready! If you’re a coaster enthusiast, Stardust Racers is the ride you’ve been waiting for.

This breathtaking dueling coaster combines classic nostalgia with cutting-edge thrills. Reaching 62 mph, soaring to heights of 133 feet, and covering 4,800 feet of track in just 90 seconds, it’s a high-speed race like no other.

Themed around the Celestians, who harness cosmic energy to ride comets, this beautiful new coaster delivers heart-pounding maneuvers, including the “Celestial Spin”—an inverted crisscross intensifying the thrill of racing side by side. 

By night, the glowing ride vehicles streak across the sky like comets, elevating the magic of Universal’s longest coaster. Blending state-of-the-art design with maximum excitement, Stardust Racers promises to be one of the most exciting experiences at Epic Universe!

Height Requirement: This ride requires riders to be at least 48” tall, with child swap available for younger guests.

#2 | Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry (The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic)

Our second most-anticipated ride at Epic Universe is Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry, and with Universal keeping many details under wraps, the excitement and anticipation are higher than ever!

You’ll be transported through the Métro-Floo from Paris to the stunning British Ministry of Magic’s grand atrium. The adventure centers around Dolores Umbridge’s trial, which takes a dramatic turn as she escapes, leading to a chase through magical departments alongside Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Higgledy, Umbridge’s house-elf.

The groundbreaking ride system features omnidirectional lifts that move up, down, and side to side, immersing guests in an action-packed escape filled with Death Eaters, magical creatures, and more. Think of the magical elevators from Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, with elements similar to some of the most iconic attractions in the area (think The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, and Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance). 

The best part? With a lower height requirement, this magical adventure will be accessible to many wizarding fans. And given Universal’s track record with Wizarding World attractions, we’re in for some incredible surprises!

Height Requirement: Guests must be at least 40” tall to experience this attraction.

#1 | Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment (Dark Universe)

I was excited about Dark Universe—until I saw footage and read descriptions of this ride. Then, I was beyond excited. Unbelievably thrilled. Absolutely blown away!

So, it should come as no surprise that the most anticipated ride coming to Universal Epic Universe has got to be the thrilling, terrifying, revolutionary Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment.

Towering over the village of Darkmoor, Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment is a terrifying dark ride unlike anything you’ve ever seen. Inside eerie catacombs, Dr. Victoria Frankenstein struggles to control legendary monsters like The Wolf Man, The Mummy, and Dracula. But things go terribly wrong when Dracula breaks free. Universal isn’t holding back – called one of the scariest rides they’ve ever made, this attraction will not be for the faint of heart.

As seen in previews from Universal Orlando Resort, the animatronics are truly mind-blowing, featuring 14 of “the most technologically-advanced animated figures that have ever been built.” Add in the incredible Phantom of the Opera organ shooting flames in sync with haunting music, and we’re looking at something that could redefine dark rides as we know them. This ride is going to be EPIC.

Height Requirement: Guests must be at least 48” tall to ride.

Epic Universe Awaits—Start Your Countdown

This theme park is set to be unlike anything the world has ever seen. Universal has pulled out all the stops, delivering world-class food, entertainment, and, of course, the most incredible rides. Every attraction promises to be fresh, exciting, and worth experiencing again and again.

The countdown to your first visit starts now—because these rides are going to be next-level epic, and you won’t want to miss a single one! Lock in your adventure today with discounted admission to Epic Universe and other Universal Orlando Resort theme parks, available through Orlando Informer here.

How are you preparing for your trip to Epic Universe? Discuss it all with 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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TODAY Cafe’s Affordable Breakfast at $9.99

TODAY Cafe in the Hollywood section of the park feels like stepping into Studio 1A in New York City. 

While catching up on the latest headlines, you can grab affordable breakfast options like the Egg White Florentine ($9.99), which features cheddar cheese, oven-roasted tomato, and spinach on ciabatta bread with a side of fresh fruit. 

For a classic start to the day, the Ham, Egg & Cheese Sandwich ($9.99) includes shaved ham and cheddar on ciabatta with fruit. 

If you’re craving something heartier, the Breakfast Sandwich, Everything Croissant ($10.49) is a must-try. It’s packed with sausage, egg, cheese, smashed avocado, and Divina tomatoes on a flaky, everything bagel-seasoned croissant, complete with fresh fruit on the side.

Mel’s Drive-In: Budget-Friendly Meals Starting at $10.99

Take a step back in time at Mel’s Drive-In, a retro diner serving up classic comfort food.

For a hearty bite, the Chili Cheese Dog Platter ($10.99) features a juicy ¼ lb. beef hot dog topped with chili, chopped onions, and melted cheese on a poppyseed bun. 

Plant-based diners will love the Vegan Field Roast Chili Dog Platter ($10.99), which swaps the beef for a hearty three-bean chili with lentils, hominy, onions, and vegan cheddar cheese. 

If you’re after a theme park staple, the Crispy Chicken Finger Platter ($11.49) offers flash-fried chicken fingers with your choice of dipping sauce. 

The best part? Every platter at Mel’s Drive-In comes with a side of golden, crispy french fries!  

Jacket Potatoes at The London Taxi Hut: A Filling Option for $11.49

Across from The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, The London Taxi Hut serves one of my personal favorites: jacket potatoes—better known as baked potatoes in the U.S. 

These hearty, filling snacks come packed with toppings like Beans & Cheese, Broccoli & Cheese, Shepherd’s Pie, or Loaded. Perfect for a quick, satisfying bite as you explore the London waterfront, each jacket potato is priced at $11.49.

Tacos at The Bumblebee Man: Flavorful Eats for $11.99 Each

Springfield’s vibrant black-and-yellow taco truck, topped with a giant Bumblebee Man head, is hard to miss! This quirky spot offers three delicious taco options, each customizable with your choice of topping: pollo, carnitas, or carne asada. Each taco order comes with crispy tortilla chips and your choice of red or green salsa. 

Gluten-sensitive? Just ask for corn tortillas instead of flour. 

Exploring Universal Studios Florida doesn’t mean stretching your budget to enjoy tasty meals. From hearty jacket potatoes to diner classics, there’s something for everyone for under $12.

Discuss it all with 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. Plus, purchase discounted theme park admission here! And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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Skip to: Celestial Park | The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic | SUPER NINTENDO WORLD | How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk | Dark Universe

The Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant (Celestial Park)

Tonkotsu Ramen
Ramen noodles in pork broth, topped with chashu pork, tare egg, shiitake mushrooms, and togarashi oil

Double Fried Korean Wings

Beef Xi’an Noodles

Passion Fruit Mooncake

Khaosan Boba
Thai-inspired milk tea with coffee boba and frothy coffee foam

Atlantic (Celestial Park)

Sea Bass
Sea Bass with carrot mochi, sugar snap peas, lemongrass broth, starfruit slices

Landlubber’s Snickerdoodle Loot
Snickerdoodle cake served in a beach pail with cookie butter ganache, surrounded by Biscoff sand and gummy sharks

Grand Atlantic Martini
Dry gin, aperitif wine, and a lemon twist garnish

The Oak & Star Tavern (Celestial Park)

Platter with Mango Bread & Pickles
Choice of smoked brisket, smoked ribs, pulled pork, cheddar jalapeno sausage, or spit-roasted herbed-infused chicken and sides like braised greens, mac and cheese, and more

The Plastered Owl
Dark rye whiskey, simple syrup, cherry syrup, lemon juice, lemon wedges, and muddled cherries

Pizza Moon (Celestial Park)

Harvest Moon Pizza
Tomato sauce, grilled artichoke hearts, Divina tomatoes, and roasted peppers, topped with Castelvetrano olives and arugula

Celestiki (Celestial Park)

Waturi Punch
Rum, bitters, and fruit juices

Bar Zenith (Celestial Park)

Meteor Strike
Light rum, triple sec, zesty lime, and pineapple juices, topped with lemon-lime soda and a sprinkle of edible gold glitter, and flaming lemon extract-infused raw sugar cube meteor garnish

Comet Dogs (Celestial Park)

Bulgogi Dog

Al Pastor Dog

Smoky Carrot Dog

Café L’air De La Sirène (The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic)

Butterbeer Crêpe
Butterbeer crepe with shortbread cookie butter, Bavarian cream, Butterbeer cream, strawberries, Butterbeer drizzle, and a Butterbeer shortbread cookie

Baguette de Dinde
Sliced cracked black pepper turkey with arugula, apples, and Brie served with a baguette with mustard butter and apple butter

Quiche Lorraine
Egg custard baked in a flaky pie crust filled with crispy bacon, gruyère cheese, and caramelized onions with mornay sauce and a side of fresh berries topped with a lavender honey drizzle

Poulet à la Provençal
Roasted half chicken with tomato olive vinaigrette and served with a side of roasted potatoes and haricots verts

Le Gobelet Noir (The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic)

Lentil Stew
A hearty stew of lentils, vegan bacon, and root vegetables served with artisan bread

Alchemist’s Platter
Smoked sausage, potato and cheese pierogies, and pickled eggs

Toadstool Cafe (SUPER NINTENDO WORLD)

Mario Burger
All-beef patty, topped with mushrooms, lettuce, tomato, and melted American cheese, served on a brioche bun with a side of truffle French fries

Luigi Burger
Grilled chicken topped with basil pesto, melted Swiss cheese, green peppers, and fresh spinach, served on a brioche bun with a side of Truffle French fries

Bowser’s Fireball Challenge
One-pound meatball topped with mozzarella cheese in mushroom marinara sauce and fresh parsley served with a Bowser-inspired puff pastry and a side of hot sauce

Yoshi’s Snack Island (SUPER NINTENDO WORLD)

Yoshi’s Smoothie
Granny Smith apple and sweet honeydew syrup with milk and topped with whipped cream and green apple bursting boba

Green Shell Calzone

Red Shell Calzone

The Bubbly Barrel (SUPER NINTENDO WORLD)

DK Crush Float
Tropical Banana flavor

Mead Hall (How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk)

Thawfest Platter
Chicken drumsticks glazed in a wild berry BBQ glaze, grilled salmon, and sausage served with roasted carrots, cipollini onions, Nordic fries, and side sauces

Yaknog
Malted chocolate, cinnamon, and whipped cream

Nordic Harvest Salad
Kale and arugula greens, crisp red cabbage, radishes, and ancient grains, with blueberries, apples, trail mix, and raspberry vinaigrette

Stormfly’s Catch of the Day 
Chocolate mousse fish, crispy rice cereal

Spit Fyre Grill (How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk)

Stoick’s Steak Bowl

Hiccup’s Salmon Bowl

Meatlug’s Chicken Bowl

Astrid’s Shrimp Bowl

Valka’s Vegan Bowl

Hooligan’s Grog & Gruel (How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk)

Mac and Cheese Cones
Half loaves of bread with the inside carved out and filled with mac and cheese

Das Stakehouse (Dark Universe)

Stakes
Meal on a stake with a choice of Fish on a Stake (blackened salmon steak), Bird on a Stake (grilled dry rubbed chicken tenderloin), or Bits and Pieces (seared and glazed wild mushroom brisket meatloaf) served with roasted veggies and charred green onion mashed potatoes

“Blood” Orange Chicken Sandwich
Flash-fried marinated chicken breast tossed in blood orange sauce served in a black bun with tangy pickles, slaw, and crispy fries

Our Favorite Vegan Familiar’s Stuffed Cabbage
Impossible meat, cabbage leaves, bell pepper tomato sauce, and beet bucatini

Red Velvet Death
Red velvet cake

The Burning Blade Tavern (Dark Universe)

Hunter’s Garlic Stake
Cheesy garlic pretzel with garlic dipping sauce

Burning Cheddar Bites
Crispy fried poppers

Burning Blade Burger
Beef patty with a spicy tomato jam spread and jalapeño bacon

Epic Universe transports you into five immersive worlds, each packed with adventure, cutting-edge attractions, and unforgettable experiences. Step inside The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, power up in SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, soar through How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, brave the unknown in Dark Universe, and stroll through the cosmic beauty of Celestial Park. With themed dining, interactive experiences, live entertainment, and more, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss out—secure your tickets here!

Which Epic Universe menu item has your taste buds tingling? Discuss it all with 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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1. Light Speed to Attractions

One serious perk of staying at Universal Stella Nova Resort is its prime location near all Universal Orlando Resort attractions. The closest? None other than the highly anticipated Universal Epic Universe. This resort plans to feature a dedicated walking trail straight to the park. Stella Nova also provides complimentary bus transportation to all other Universal attractions, which normally takes less than fifteen minutes to arrive.

2. Stella Nova’s SPACE-ious Pool and Splash Pad

Ready to relax in the Florida sun? Stella Nova has you covered! This resort has a giant pool with plenty of seating for everyone. Find a cozy spot in the sand or settle in by the splash zone to keep a close eye on your kiddos.

If you’re not in the mood to take a dip, no problem! This area also has a fire pit, and some of your favorite movies will be played under the stars for you to enjoy.

3. Out of this World Theming

The galaxy awaits everyone who enters Universal Stella Nova Resort. The immersive theming starts before you even enter the building. Covered in 140,000 hand-placed color-shifting tiles and dazzling star constellation lighting, the tone is set for an incredible space-exploring adventure.

Step through the vortex and into a world inspired by space, where real NASA photos surround you—from the lobby to your room. Be sure to take a trip to the third floor to check out the one-of-a-kind starry hallway.

4. Dining at Stella Nova: Astronaut-Approved Food and Drinks

Who said theme park food had to be boring? Certainly not here! Universal Stella Nova Resort has plenty of amazing food and beverage options for all palettes.

Needing something quick and on the go? Cosmos Cafe and Market is located in the lobby and has you covered with fresh coffee, in-house baked goods, and ready-to-eat options. Prefer to take it slow? The cafe side offers a relaxed atmosphere for those not rushing to the parks. With salads, soups, sandwiches, burgers, house-made pizza, and more, there is sure to be something for everyone at breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Close by awaits the Nova Bar. Here, you can enjoy specialty crafted and space-themed cocktails or your favorite mixed drink from the full bar. 

Step outside to experience the Galaxy Bar and Grill, the perfect spot to enjoy a snack and sip by the pool.

Tired after a long park day? Stella Nova offers pizza delivery and in-room dining every evening until midnight!

5. Stellar Value

This Prime Value hotel has so much to offer for its guests. Each room has two queen beds and serene views of the pool or stunning sights of Universal Epic Universe.

There is also a fully equipped fitness center and an exciting arcade. Early park admission to the theme parks (yes, even Epic Universe once it opens) is also included for all guests staying at Stella Nova with Universal Orlando Resort park admission. All of this for just a starting price of around $189 a night.

Don’t wait—unlock the benefits of staying at Universal Stella Nova Resort by checking the latest rates through Orlando Informer here and start planning your out-of-this-world getaway!

Share your vacation planning tips with 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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Skip to: Vegetarian | Vegan

Vegetarian Universal Mardi Gras Options

Margherita Poutine – $10.49
Canada, New York
Delight in a playful twist on the classic Canadian dish, poutine. Traditionally made with cheese curds and gravy, this version features fresh mozzarella, roasted tomatoes, and basil cream, all piled atop crispy pub fries.

Cajun Spiced Twisted Tater – $9.99
Bites of the Bayou, New York
A Halloween Horror Nights favorite, this spiral potato is now a Mardi Gras must-try! It’s perfect for snacking while you’re catching beads at the parade, heading to a concert, or anything in between. Served on a stick for ultimate convenience, this treat is seasoned with Cajun spices and topped with a Creole remoulade sauce and herbs.

Beignets – $7.49
Taste of the Quarter, New York
When you think of Mardi Gras, one of the first treats that comes to mind is the classic fried pastry dusted with powdered sugar. This beloved New Orleans Creole dessert is an absolute must for any Mardi Gras celebration!

Pandebono – $7.99
Colombia, New York
This warm Colombian cassava bread is both hearty and comforting, making it a fantastic addition to the lineup of handheld treats you’ll want to grab during a day at the park. With its slightly crisp exterior and soft, chewy interior, it’s a deliciously satisfying snack that’s easy to enjoy on the go.

Churro Loops – $8.49
Mexico, Hollywood
Universal Mardi Gras is back with its creative spin on a theme park favorite—cinnamon sugar churro loops, now served with both dulce de leche and chocolate sauce.

Apple Strudel – $4.99
Germany, San Francisco
Make your way to the San Francisco area of Universal Studios Florida to indulge in this German dessert featuring flaky pastry layers wrapped around a spiced apple filling.

Vegan Universal Mardi Gras Options

Red Beans & Rice – $7.49
This dish is straight from the bayou! Made with vegan sausage, stewed beans, white rice, and fresh scallions, it’s the perfect plant-based option to enjoy.

Potato Dosa – $7.99
India, San Francisco
Griddled to perfection, this dosa is filled with a flavorful mix of curried potatoes, onions, and black mustard seeds and served alongside a coconut chutney.

Check out the full Universal Mardi Gras menu here and let the good times roll with 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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A Look Inside Cursed Coconut Club

Step into a Mardi Gras wonderland where the spirit of the celebration comes alive! Drenched in the hues of purple, green, and gold, the first floor of Cursed Coconut Club is bursting with jesters, ornate masks, larger-than-life beads, tarot cards, and more. This space isn’t just fun—it’s the ultimate party starter!

Wander to the second floor of this venue, where the mysterious parlor of Madame Stratera, Cursed Coconut Club’s resident fortune teller, awaits. Will you dare to glimpse into your future? One thing’s for sure—a visit to Cursed Coconut Club is already in your cards!

Cursed Coconut Club Menu

What spirits await at Cursed Coconut Club? With unique menus upstairs and downstairs, there’s always something new to sip on. Here’s what’s on these limited-time menus:

Downstairs Menu

Cocktails

Healing Elixir – $15.50
New Amsterdam gin, Green Chartreuse, lime juice, and soda water

Aura Glow – $18.00
New Amsterdam Vodka, St-Germaine Elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, lavender syrup, and blue glitter

Supernatural Spritz – $11.00
Bonne Chance sparkling wine, peach syrup, and rosemary

Sunbeam Sangria – $18.00
A to Z Wineworks riesling, Bombay Sapphire gin, pineapple juice, orange wheels

Mocktails

Golden Spell Mocktail – $11.00
Orange juice, mango purée, honey, and ginger beer

Draft Beer

Parish Brewing “Ghost in the Machine”
20 oz. Souvenir Cup – $16.00
Refill – $12.75
12 oz. Single Serve – $13.00

Bud Light
20 oz. Souvenir Cup – $14.25
Refill – $11.00
12 oz. Single Serve – $11.25

Stella Artois
20 oz. Souvenir Cup – $16.00
Refill – $12.75
12 oz. Single Serve – $13.00

Blue Moon
20 oz. Souvenir Cup – $16.00
Refill – $12.75
12 oz. Single Serve – $13.00

Angry Orchard
20 oz. Souvenir Cup – $16.00
Refill – $12.75
12 oz. Single Serve – $13.00

Abita “Purple Haze”
20 oz. Souvenir Cup – $16.00
Refill – $12.75
12 oz. Single Serve – $13.00

Canned Beverages

Abita “Andygator” – $10.50

Abita “Mardi Gras Bock” – $11.25

NÜTRL – $12.50

Upstairs Menu

Cocktails

Mystic Mirage – $17.00
Empress 1908 gin, St-Germaine Elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, and lavender syrup

Eclipse Martini – $15.50
360 Vodka Madagascar Vanilla, DeKuyper Crème de Cacao, cold brew concentrate, simple syrup with gold glitter spray

Shadow’s Delight – $18.00
Misguided Spirits Workingman’s Whiskey, Averna amaro, Woodford Reserve spiced cherry bitters, and The Bitter Truth Old Chocolate bitters

The Oracle’s Glass – $14.75
DeKuyper Crème de Cassis and Bonne Chance sparkling wine with a mist of Absente Absinthe

Mocktails

Midnight Masquerade Mocktail – $11.00
Cranberry juice, blackcurrant syrup, and Sprite

Canned Beverages

Abita “Andygator” – $10.50

Abita “Mardi Gras Bock” – $11.25

NÜTRL – $12.50

Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval takes place from February 1 to March 30, 2025. Let the good times roll by saving on Universal Orlando Resort admission through Orlando Informer here!

Find your Krewe and discuss it all with 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Wild Oasis introduces Tree Top Drop, a family-friendly drop tower that offers 35 feet of free-fall fun! The ride has a height requirement of 38 inches with an adult or 42 inches to ride alone, making it perfect for kids and parents to enjoy together.

That’s not the only way Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is taking things to new heights! Canopy Climb is a towering, multi-level play structure that lets you see the jungle from all-new perspectives. Navigate 45-foot-tall climbing towers, weave through a 200-foot-long net course, and take on a vertical climbing maze and suspended swinging bridge.

Beat the Florida heat at Enchanted Falls, a splash pad packed with fountains, geysers, jets, and a waterfall—guaranteed fun for kids (and refreshing for parents, too!). Plus, plenty of shaded seating ensures everyone can take a break and recharge.

Wild Oasis isn’t just about thrills—it’s also home to a multi-species habitat featuring capybaras, giant anteaters, squirrel monkeys, and a variety of tropical birds. 

“One of the things that I am most looking forward to is showing off how animals live in harmony,” Kayla Wendzel, a Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Zoological Curator, said this morning. “No matter what color, size, or different type of behavior they generally display, they can all live together cohesively to benefit their environment.”

This isn’t your typical habitat—you’ll be able to see capybaras up close in an underwater viewing area and get an aerial view of squirrel monkeys and exotic birds from the Canopy Climb!

Plus, put your exploration skills to the test with Rainforest Quest, an interactive scavenger hunt that takes you on an educational journey across Wild Oasis. Each station is themed to animals from the rainforests of Central and South America, helping guests learn about the unique ways these species connect to each other.

Wild Oasis is set to open in Spring 2025, bringing a whole new level of adventure to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Don’t miss your chance to experience it—score discounted admission through Orlando Informer and be among the first to explore this wild new world!

Be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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1. Breathtaking Views

At first glance, you might not expect the rooms at Universal Cabana Bay Beach Resort to offer amazing views—but prepare to be pleasantly surprised! Rooms in the Bayside or Beachside towers boast some of the best views on Universal Orlando Resort property, hands down. These sleek glass towers are positioned next to Universal Volcano Bay. From your room, you’ll be treated to a stunning panorama of the water park’s Krakatau volcano and the Orlando skyline. The slight upcharge for these rooms is well worth it—you’ll wake up to a view that feels like paradise!

2. Distance from the Parks

Universal Cabana Bay Beach Resort is located on Universal Orlando Resort property, putting you just moments away from Universal CityWalk and its connected parks: Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. It is so close that there is even a walking trail to these attractions.  In just 15 to 20 minutes, you can stroll your way to Universal CityWalk, Universal Studios Florida, or Islands of Adventure.

Volcano Bay is only steps away from the resort, with less than a five-minute walk. Universal Cabana Bay Beach Resort offers a complimentary bus transportation system that runs every 10 minutes or so, providing quick and easy access to CityWalk, Volcano Bay, and soon, the highly anticipated Epic Universe.

3. Galaxy Bowling: A Unique Cabana Bay Benefit

Ever stayed at a hotel with its own private bowling alley? At Universal Cabana Bay Beach Resort, you can!

Located on the second floor of the lobby, Galaxy Bowl awaits! This isn’t just a bowling alley—it’s also a restaurant and bar, making it the perfect spot for food, drinks, and fun. It’s a great way to unwind after a long day at the parks with the family or have a retro date night with your loved one. Be sure to make a reservation for Galaxy Bowl in advance so you don’t miss out.

4. Relax by Cabana Bay’s Pools

It’s no exaggeration to say that Universal Cabana Bay Beach Resort boasts some of the nicest and most fun pools on Universal Orlando Resort property. With not one but two large pools on either side of the resort, you’re never far from a refreshing swim.

But that’s not all—Universal Cabana Bay Beach Resort also features a lazy river! This amenity is perfect for when you just want to unwind and enjoy the beautiful Florida weather. Tubes are available for purchase, so you can float your cares away during your stay.

5. Affordable Stays with Cabana Bay Benefits

You may think that staying at a nice resort on Universal property would cost a pretty penny, but that is far from the case at Universal Cabana Bay Beach Resort. This destination is part of Universal’s Value Inns and Suites category, making it one of the most budget-friendly options for your Universal Orlando Resort vacation without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

Standard rooms, accommodating up to four guests, average around $200 per night. For larger groups, family suites—sleeping six to eight guests depending on the layout—offer incredible value, starting at about $240 per night. These rates are highly competitive compared to other hotels and resorts in the area.

Don’t wait—check the latest rates for your desired travel dates through Orlando Informer here and start planning your getaway!

Share your vacation planning tips with 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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There are plenty of spots near Orlando where you and your little ones can enjoy unforgettable fun. From exciting rides to engaging shows and adorable animal encounters, there’s something for the whole family to love!

After all, a happy toddler means a happy family, right?

Top Picks for Toddler-Friendly Theme Parks in Florida

1. Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort (Orlando, FL)

When you think about which Disney theme park is best for toddlers, it’s got to be Magic Kingdom Park. It’s a must-visit, offering endless enchantment and memory-making moments.

Start your day in Fantasyland, where little ones can explore fun rides like “it’s a small world”, Peter Pan’s Flight, and The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. Our toddler also loves The Haunted Mansion (Liberty Square), Jungle Cruise (Adventureland), and Country Bear Musical Jamboree (Frontierland).

Beyond the rides, toddlers will love meeting their favorite Disney characters and watching the magical parades and castle performances.

Let your little adventurer roam freely on Tom Sawyer Island. They’ll love exploring, burn off energy, and enjoy a bit of independence. With any luck, they’ll tire out and be ready for a nap—giving you the perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy attractions like The Hall of Presidents or our family’s favorite, Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress.

Pro Tip: Grab a spot on Main Street, U.S.A. early for the parades, and bring noise-canceling headphones for toddlers sensitive to loud sounds during the fireworks.

Height Requirements: Magic Kingdom Park has over 20 attractions with no height requirements, including Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin, The Magic Carpets of Aladdin, and Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room. Additional rides with a requirement under 3.5’ include Tomorrowland Speedway (32’’), The Barnstormer (35’’), Seven Dwarfs Mine Train (38”), Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (40”), and Tiana’s Bayou Adventure (40”).

2. Sesame Street Land at SeaWorld Orlando (Orlando, FL)

SeaWorld Orlando offers an exciting mix of marine life encounters, gentle rides, and engaging shows to captivate your toddlers. 

In Sesame Street Land, you’ll step into the world of Sesame Street, where little ones can ring Bert and Ernie’s doorbell, knock on Oscar’s trash can, or dance alongside a colorful, music-filled parade with Elmo and Big Bird. With gentle rides like Elmo’s Choo Choo Train and the Sunny Day Carousel, plus an exciting splash pad and fun-filled play zone, this area is a toddler’s dream come true.

Don’t Miss: The rest of the park! Beyond Sesame Street Land, SeaWorld Orlando has plenty for tots, including family shows, flamingo paddle boats, and up-close animal encounters, like feeding sea lions or meeting dolphins! The mix of rides, marine experiences, and shows will ensure everyone has a great time!

Height Requirements: Most attractions in Sesame Street Land have no height requirement, although an adult must accompany children below certain heights. For Super Grover’s Box Car Derby, kids must be at least 38 inches tall.

3. Seuss Landing at Universal Islands of Adventure (Orlando, FL)

Enter the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss at Seuss Landing in Universal Islands of Adventure, where bright colors, quirky designs, and fun rides await. Toddlers will giggle through One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish and enjoy a gentle spin on The Cat in the Hat.

For free play and exploration, the If I Ran the Zoo area offers slides, water features, and interactive play zones filled with Seussian creatures, including Mr. Gump’s famous seven hump Wump. It’s the perfect space for little ones to let their imaginations run wild, and it’s one of my little guy’s favorites!

Pro Tip: Stop by for storytime with Dr. Seuss characters during Oh! The Stories You’ll Hear—it’s an engaging break for little legs, and parents will enjoy the nostalgia of these classic tales.

Height Requirements: To ride The High in the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride and The Cat in the Hat, children must be at least 36 inches tall. If your child meets this height requirement, they can also enjoy Skull Island: Reign of Kong and Flight of the Hippogriff while visiting Universal Islands of Adventure.

4. DreamWorks Land at Universal Studios Florida (Orlando, FL)

Recently opened and perfect for younger kids, DreamWorks Land immerses toddlers in their favorite animated worlds. With many opportunities for character meet-and-greets, it’s a can’t-miss destination for families with little ones.

Toddlers can dance with Trolls during a high-energy party or explore Shrek’s swamp with sensory-friendly play zones. Po’s Kung Fu Training Camp offers interactive games perfect for little adventurers.

The vibrant atmosphere and playful activities ensure kids stay entertained while parents enjoy the immersive settings. And by immersive settings, I mean a “Shrek-zel” – a Shrek-shaped pretzel with green cheese for dipping. You won’t regret it!

Must-Try Treat: The whimsical Troll Ice Cream, topped with edible glitter and sprinkles, is a hit with toddlers and parents.

Can’t Miss Attraction: While you’re there, be sure to catch the Animal Actors on Location! show just around the corner from DreamWorks Land. It’s one of the most entertaining family-friendly shows around!

Height Requirements: Trolls Trollercoaster requires riders to be at least 36 inches tall. Right outside of the Dreamworks area, children at least 34 inches tall can ride the classic E.T. Adventure.

5. EPCOT at Walt Disney World Resort (Orlando, FL)

You might think EPCOT is for adults, but toddlers love rides and attractions like Frozen Ever After, Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, and the new water-splashing walk-through area, Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana. 

After exiting Spaceship Earth, families can explore Project Tomorrow: Inventing the Wonders of the Future, an interactive area filled with hands-on exhibits and activities that engage young minds. Over at ImageWorks, near the Journey Into Imagination with Figment ride, toddlers can unleash their creativity with engaging sensory and play experiences.

Little ones also love the SeaBase Aquarium, where they can watch colorful marine life up close and learn about ocean ecosystems in a fun, immersive environment.

The wide-open spaces make it easy for toddlers to roam and burn off energy. For parents, the international food options provide a chance to sample flavors from around the world while keeping the whole family happy.

Pro Tip: Visit during the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival for colorful displays and family-friendly activities, including Butterfly Landing, located near the Imagination Pavilion, with a variety of butterflies in different stages of their life cycle. It’s really awesome to see!

Height Requirements: You might be surprised to learn nearly every attraction at EPCOT has no height requirement. Some of my family’s favorites are Journey Into Imagination With Figment, Spaceship Earth, Living with the Land, and Turtle Talk With Crush.

Notable Mentions

• KidsTown at the Orlando Science Center (Orlando, FL): A toddler-friendly haven with interactive exhibits like water play stations, building blocks, and a kid-sized town for imaginative play. 
• Central Florida Zoo (Sanford, FL): A tranquil escape with a petting zoo and shaded paths.
• ICON Park (Orlando, FL): Perfect for a stroller-friendly outing with fun attractions like The Wheel, SeaLife Orlando Aquarium, and the Museum of Illusions Orlando.
• Crayola Experience Orlando (Orlando, FL): Unleash your toddler’s creativity with hands-on art projects in an endless rainbow of colors.

Keeping Theme Park Days Stress-Free With Little Ones

There’s something for toddlers at any theme park you visit. You might think because they won’t be riding the big coasters, they’ll be bored, but I’ve found that’s definitely not the case! Just being out and about, running around, and seeing all the fun and excitement is a blast for kids.

With a little planning, you can make things easier and avoid those dreaded toddler meltdowns. 

Here’s how to make your trips go smoothly:

• Strollers: Bring your own, reserve online, or rent on-site. They’re lifesavers for tired toddlers (and carrying bags, cups, popcorn buckets, and more!).
• Pack Smart: Bring plenty of snacks, sunscreen, and refillable water bottles. Don’t forget a change of clothes and swim diapers for splash areas.
• Tickets: Kids under three get free entry to most parks—no ticket required!
• Food Policy: Baby food and formula are normally allowed; check with Park Security with any questions.
• Facilities: Most parks will have nursing facilities, family bathrooms, changing tables, and sometimes even quiet, low-stimulation areas if you or your child needs a break from the excitement. Find these areas on maps online or in the parks.
• Travel Cribs/High Chairs: If staying on-site, most resorts will have complimentary travel cribs and possibly high chairs, but be sure to check with the hotel in advance.
• Stay Cool: Florida’s heat is no joke! Dress toddlers in light clothing, apply sunscreen frequently, and make hydration a priority. Fun frozen treats like Dole Whip or Butterbeer can be a refreshing bonus, but water is key.
• Consider Staying On-Site: If your budget allows, staying at a resort close to the parks is a game-changer. On-site accommodations often include perks like early park entry, shuttle service, and toddler-friendly amenities such as zero-entry pools and splash pads. Plus, midday breaks for naps or outfit changes are much more manageable.

Central Florida is bursting with options for family fun, and toddlers are sure to have a blast while visiting these parks. From thrilling rides at Magic Kingdom Park to marine encounters at SeaWorld Orlando, there’s something for everyone. So pack those snacks, grab your stroller, and get ready to create sunshine-filled memories with your little ones!

Snag discounted theme park admission here, and be sure to follow Orlando Informer on Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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Hotel Lobby

The immersive theming starts the moment you arrive. As you drive up to the hotel, look up – the lobby’s overhang is designed to resemble a swirling black hole, setting the celestial tone. 

Step inside, and you’ll find space-inspired elements that strike a perfect balance—tasteful and modern but never overwhelming. Thoughtful touches, like natural light streaming through spaceship-style windows and subtle star and galaxy murals accenting the curved interiors, create an inviting atmosphere that’s sleek and far from overdone. 

Naturally, you’ll find the front desk ready to welcome you, with Cosmos Café & Market and Nova Bar just steps away. Don’t worry—we’ll explore all the dining options soon!

Universal Stella Nova Resort Rooms

Enter your cosmic escape at Universal Stella Nova Resort! This hotel features 750 double-queen guest rooms adorned in soothing teal and purple tones for a calming, celestial ambiance. From the sleek curves that echo the vastness of space to the exquisite touches—like complimentary soap wrapped with interplanetary flair—no detail is overlooked. 

Each room at this resort features two queen beds, with options available for mobile and hearing accessibility. Whether you opt for an upgraded view or not, the vistas are unbeatable. Each one we’ve seen offers breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding areas and theme parks. Trust us, you won’t be able to take your eyes off the horizon!

Universal Stella Nova Resort Dining

Universal Orlando Resort’s newest hotel serves up four fantastic dining options to satisfy every craving. There’s Cosmos Café & Market, offering quick-service meals for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and more; Nova Bar, the chic hotel lobby bar; Galaxy Bar & Galaxy Grill, a poolside favorite for drinks and casual bites; and convenient in-room pizza delivery.

Cosmos Café & Market and Nova Bar are both located in the hotel lobby, making them perfect for a grab-and-go breakfast on your way to the parks or a relaxing drink after a fun-filled day. When you’re lounging poolside, Galaxy Bar & Galaxy Grill has you covered—enjoy your meal there or order ahead for pickup at their convenient window to enjoy right at your pool chair. And when you’re too wiped out after those park days, pizza delivery to your room is a lifesaver.

Curious about what we tried and loved? Check out our full review here!

Pool & Amenities

Let’s dive into the hotel’s pool—because it’s more than just a place to swim! This spot features not only the previously mentioned pool bar but also a relaxing hot tub, a fun-filled splash pad for the kids, and even a sandy area to bring a touch of the beach to your stellar retreat.

Universal Stella Nova Resort also offers plenty of thoughtful amenities, including a state-of-the-art fitness center and convenient laundry facilities, ensuring you have everything you need for a seamless and enjoyable stay. Guests can also enjoy an arcade and a Universal Studios Store, ensuring entertainment and essentials are always within reach.

Learn more about Universal Orlando Resort hotels and secure your cosmic retreat at Universal Stella Nova Resort here!

Discuss it all with 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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Guests can look forward to three stellar dining experiences: Cosmos Cafe and Market, a quick-service spot serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner; Galaxy Bar and Galaxy Grill, a laid-back poolside bar and grill; and Nova Bar, a stylish lobby bar. Ready to discover all the delicious details? Let’s dig in!

Quick Service Dining at Universal Stella Nova Resort

Cosmos Cafe & Market serves up made-to-order American classics for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with a variety of grab-and-go options. It’s the perfect stop for a quick breakfast before hitting the parks or a cozy dinner to unwind and reflect on the day. 

Now, let’s get to the best part—the food! We sampled the Banana & Walnut Buttermilk Pancakes, Hot Honey Chicken Pizza, Gooey Monkey Bread, and Stuffed Croissant, and each dish was a standout in its own way.

The Banana & Walnut Buttermilk Pancakes were a dream, topped with caramelized bananas, a sprinkle of walnuts, and powdered sugar. The pancakes were perfectly fluffy, tying all the flavors together. Drizzle on some syrup, and you’ve got the ultimate breakfast to kickstart your day.

Next up, the Hot Honey Chicken Pizza stole the show. With toppings like sweet corn, caramelized onions, melty cheese, and spicy hot honey chicken, this unique creation was out-of-this-world delicious. The heat level was just right—enough to pack a punch without overwhelming your palate.

Then came the Gooey Monkey Bread—pure decadence. The dark chocolate beautifully balanced the sweetness, creating a harmonious bite that wasn’t overly rich. Pair it with your morning coffee for an unbeatable combo.

Finally, the Stuffed Croissant left a lasting impression. Perfectly flaky and buttery on the outside, with a delectable berry cream cheese filling, it’s easily one of our new favorite bites across Universal Orlando Resort. Simply put, it’s unforgettable.

Another fantastic quick-service option is Galaxy Bar & Galaxy Grill, the go-to spot for poolside dining. You can choose to enjoy your meal right at the restaurant or order ahead and pick it up to savor by your pool chair. It promises to be the perfect complement to a relaxing pool day. While we didn’t get a chance to sample this one, the menu promises mouthwatering options like burgers, quesadillas, and fresh salads, plus a selection of cocktails, beer, and wine for guests 21+.

For a laid-back dining experience without leaving your room, there’s also pizza delivery. While not quite a quick-service location, a simple phone call is all it takes to bring some delicious slices straight to you.

Bars & Lounges

While Galaxy Bar brings laid-back poolside vibes, Nova Bar takes things to the next level. This sleek lobby bar features a skilled bartender crafting specialty cocktails with unique, inspired ingredients alongside timeless classics. Whether you’re in the mood for a creative concoction or a tried-and-true favorite, Nova Bar delivers an elevated affair.

Learn more about Universal Orlando Resort hotels and secure your cosmic retreat at Universal Stella Nova Resort here!

Discuss it all with 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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With Darkmoor’s distinct narrative, innovative attractions, and shops on the horizon, you’re likely wondering how to prepare for all the excitement. Of course, the movies from Universal Pictures’ Classic Monsters collection are a great starting point. Navigating this extensive lineup, however, can be tricky. To help, we have a definitive guide of what to know and the movies to watch in preparation for your travels.

Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment

Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment is practically a who’s who of Classic Monsters characters. Guests will come face-to-face with Victoria Frankenstein, the great-great-granddaughter of Dr. Henry Frankenstein, as well as Frankenstein’s Monster, Dracula, the Wolf Man, and the Gill-man from The Creature From the Black Lagoon.

Frankenstein’s Monster has seven movies in its canon, but we’d suggest 1931’s Frankenstein and 1935’s Bride of Frankenstein. These will help to understand the monster and its original creator, Henry. As for our famous vampire, 1931’s Dracula would be the one to see since almost every version of him has been inspired by that film. Turning to the Gill-man, you’ll want to watch The Creature From the Black Lagoon and The Creature Walks Among Us from his canon trilogy.

Curse of the Werewolf

The Wolf Man has a total of five movies in his Universal Classic Monsters canon. Curse of the Werewolf also features Maleva, the omniscient leader of The Guild of Mystics, as our guide. To prepare, we recommend watching 1941’s The Wolf Man and its 2010 remake. Both Maleva and the Wolf Man appear in these iterations and will give you a base idea of what to expect.

Pretorius’ Scientific Oddities

1935’s Bride of Frankenstein will clue you into who Dr. Septimus Pretorius is. As the other resident mad scientist of Dark Universe, his most famous work is The Bride. Dr. Pretorius is thought to have met his doom by the film’s conclusion, but his devotees have placed his experiments on full display at Darkmoor’s flagship store, Pretorius’ Scientific Oddities. Who knows? You might just leave inspired to continue his experiments… or at least with a few eerie souvenirs for your own collection.

Darkmoor Village’s Character Experiences

Guests exploring Darkmoor Village will have plenty of meet-and-greet opportunities. Outside of the village inhabitants and monster hunters, they’ll encounter Frankenstein’s Monster, The Bride (both previously mentioned), The Invisible Man, and Dr. Frankenstein’s assistant, Ygor. While there are six movies in the classic Invisible Man canon and a remake, you’ll be fine to just watch 1933’s The Invisible Man.

It should be mentioned that, while he’s still essentially the same character, the assistant to the Frankenstein family was originally named Fritz. Ygor wouldn’t appear until 1938’s Son of Frankenstein and its follow-up, Ghost of Frankenstein. So we’d suggest adding those two to the watchlist as well.

How are you preparing for your trip to Epic Universe? Discuss it all with 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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Since its grand opening on August 19, 2009, this roller coaster, manufactured by Maurer Söhne GmbH & Co. KG (now Maurer AG), has been a defining feature of Universal Orlando Resort’s skyline. Known for its towering 167-foot vertical lift and top speeds of 65 mph, Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit offers an unforgettable ride experience.

What truly sets this thrill apart is its customizable soundtrack, letting guests select the perfect song to accompany their ride. Current music choices include:

• Classic Rock/Metal: “Welcome to the Black Parade” by My Chemical Romance (2006)
• Pop/Disco: “Waterloo” by ABBA (1974)
• Country: “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” By Shania Twain (1997)
• Rap/Hip-Hop: “Humble” by Kendrick Lamar (2017)
• Club/Electronica: “Sandstorm” by Darude (2000)

But wait, there’s a secret song menu! Curious to know what hidden tracks are available and how to unlock them? Explore our guide here for all the details.

What’s next for the space? Universal Orlando Resort hasn’t revealed what will replace Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit just yet, but stay tuned—we’ll keep you updated with all the latest news.

Don’t miss your chance to rock out on Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit before it officially closes in early September 2025. Save on your visit by purchasing discounted Universal Orlando Resort tickets through Orlando Informer here.

Share your favorite Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit memories with 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Orlando is going big this New Year’s Eve! On December 31, Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure will stay open until 1 a.m., while CityWalk’s festivities continue until 2 a.m.

From DJs spinning crowd favorites to live performances and epic midnight countdowns, the energy is nothing short of electric. A Midnight Celebration will occur once the clock strikes midnight at the Promenade & Plaza. And as the clock winds down on the holiday season, make your way to the Green and Red Coconut Club. With cozy alpine decor and festive drinks, it’s the ultimate way to toast goodbye to 2024. 

For a more elevated experience, check out the specially ticketed New Year’s Eve parties at Universal Orlando Resort hotels, including Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Sapphire Falls Resort, and more. 

Walt Disney World Resort

Walt Disney World is gearing up for an unforgettable New Year’s celebration with late-night hours and specialty fireworks. 

Magic Kingdom will stay open until midnight on both December 30 and 31, featuring its beloved “Fantasy in the Sky” fireworks display performed twice each evening at 6:30 p.m. and 11:50 p.m. Dance parties in Frontierland and Tomorrowland will keep the energy high with DJs leading music and countdowns for New Year’s Eve excitement. 

Over at EPCOT, the party takes on its unique festivities. While the park closes at 9:30 p.m. on December 30, the celebration continues until 1 a.m. on December 31. Guests can enjoy the regular fireworks “Luminous: The Symphony of Us” at 6:30 p.m. and the specialty fireworks “Cheers to the New Year: A Sparkling Celebration” at 11:54 p.m. 

SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld Orlando is marking the arrival of 2025 with a New Year’s Eve celebration that combines the lingering charm of its Christmas festivities with the new year’s excitement. Guests can enjoy dazzling holiday lights, seasonal entertainment, and marine life exhibits before the night concludes with a stunning fireworks display visible throughout the park. 

The festivities include DJ Dance Party Zones at Wild Arctic, Sharks Plaza, the Waterfront, and Sesame Street Land, where guests can groove to a mix of lively tunes. Champagne pop-up bars will also be available for celebratory toasts all night long. Families can join the fun at Sesame Street Land with a special New Year’s Eve Countdown featuring Count von Count and friends. 

More New Year’s Eve Festivities in Orlando

Orlando’s charm extends far beyond its famous attractions. Here are a few options outside the theme park world to close out 2024 in style: 

• Boxi Park in Lake Nona will have family-friendly activities from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. for $10 admission. The price increases to $35 at 9 p.m. when the open-air container park transforms into a 21+ nightclub with a DJ. There will also be a digital ball drop and champagne toast at midnight. 

• Howl at the Moon dueling piano bar will start saying goodbye to 2024 at 7 p.m. Musicians will entertain throughout the night with top hits, party classics, and audience song requests. Pricing ranges between $75 and $150 per guest. 

• ICEBAR Orlando on International Drive will host the Ice Masquerade: A New Year’s Celebration starting at 7 p.m. Enjoy a night of icy elegance featuring specialty cocktails, a midnight buffet, a live DJ, ice sculptures, and more. Pricing ranges from $50 to $150 per guest. 

• New Year’s Eve at Old Town is ending 2024 with a bang at this New Year’s Eve Celebration presented by Old Town and the adjacent Fun Spot in Kissimmee. The free festivities, running from 10 a.m. to midnight, include live music entertainment and fireworks launched from Old Town’s rooftops. 

From thrilling theme parks to festive local celebrations, Orlando is the perfect place to start your 2025 in style. Wherever you choose to celebrate, one thing is sure — there’s no place like Orlando to welcome the new year. 

Snag discounted theme park admission here and be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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If you’re like us, the question of what games to play in preparation for becoming a SUPER NINTENDO WORLD superstar has crossed your mind. Of course, you’ll want to start with the original Super Mario Bros. for the Nintendo Entertainment System. As the details get complex from there, we’ve compiled a definitive list of what games to focus on before visiting the Mushroom Kingdom.

Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge

It goes without saying that Mario Kart is one of Nintendo’s most hallowed franchises, with a current total of 15 games that span multiple consoles. Most of the inspiration for Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge comes from 2014’s Mario Kart 8 entry on the Nintendo Wii. 

Based on the Hollywood and Japanese iterations, this is evident in the ride’s queue, which takes guests through Bowser’s castle, complete with stunning interior decor and trophies representing each racing circuit from Mario Kart 8. This attention to detail extends to the attraction’s ride vehicles as well. Keen-eyed guests will also notice the Mario Kart TV broadcasting van (Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, anyone?) parked in the queue.

Mine-Cart Madness

Mine-Cart Madness pulls its inspiration directly from the first Donkey Kong Country game on the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. It’s the name of the 27th level of the game and, more specifically, the fifth level of its fifth land. That may seem a little far into the game to play, but the Donkey Kong Country franchise is a popular one for a very good reason. This level can act as a virtual preview of the cart jumps and track breaks we can look forward to at the SUPER NINTENDO WORLD attraction.

Yoshi’s Adventure

Players of the Super Mario Bros. franchise were first introduced to Mario and Luigi’s trusted steed and enemy-eating sidekick in Super Mario World on the Super Nintendo console. Yoshi was then given more prominence in Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island, which established Yoshi as part of the Super Mario Bros. franchise.

These two games are key to understanding Yoshi as a group within the series. In both Super Mario World titles, Yoshi is deeply woven into Mario’s story. Players gain insight into these lovable dinosaurs, learning about their different types, unique abilities, and the fact that “Yoshi” refers both to the iconic character and the species as a whole.

Bowser Jr. Shadow Showdown

Bowser’s only son was first introduced in the Nintendo Gamecube’s Super Mario Sunshine, where he was disguised as Shadow Mario and acted as the main antagonist. This is the game to focus on for the character, but those wanting supplemental material will want to turn their gaze to Mario & Luigi: Paper Jam as the Nintendo 3DS game adds to Bowser Jr.’s story.

Additionally, Super Mario Bros: Wonder for the Nintendo Switch is perfect here, as the Hollywood and Japan versions of Bowser Jr. Shadow Showdown utilize black silhouettes and shadow-based gameplay. Similarly, many levels in Wonder feature a comparable visual style, giving players an excellent opportunity to adjust to this unique format.

How are you preparing for your trip to Epic Universe? Discuss it with 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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Packing Tips for Universal Orlando Resort

One thing I’ve learned from frequent visits to Universal Orlando Resort is that anything can happen. It’s always better to pack a little heavier and be prepared than to go light and end up in an inconvenient situation. Sure, the obvious essentials like your phone, wallet, keys, and tickets are no-brainers—but what about the less obvious must-haves?

One item I never leave behind is a portable charging port. With phones and other devices draining fast from keeping up with attraction wait times and snapping countless memory-making photos, it’s a lifesaver.

Other essentials, like ponchos and an extra pair of socks, are handy for those fun water rides or if you run into a quick afternoon rain shower. A refillable water bottle is another must-have to help keep you hydrated and prevent you from having to purchase multiple water bottles throughout the day. And don’t forget sunscreen to protect yourself from the intense Florida sun!

Maximizing Universal Orlando Resort Hotel Benefits

Staying at a Universal Orlando Resort hotel offers more than just proximity to the parks—it’s packed with perks, including one I wish I had used on my first trip: luggage services. If you arrive early in the morning before your room is ready or need to check out but have a late flight, you do not have to drag your bags around all day. Each Universal Orlando Resort hotel has luggage services that will hold your belongings until you are ready to pick them up or check-in. This means you can enjoy the parks to the fullest, even on your arrival or departure day!

Universal Orlando Resort hotel properties also offer their own convenient transportation options and walking trails to the parks. The water taxis and walking trails even have separate security checkpoints, providing a quicker security experience compared to the main security lines.

These hotels typically include Early Park Admission to at least one of their theme parks, though this is subject to change. Be sure to check which parks offer this perk on the days of your visit. This benefit gives hotel guests exclusive first access to some of the most popular attractions before the general crowds arrive!

Using the Universal Orlando Resort App

The Universal Orlando Resort app is one of the best tools for making your day easier. With this app, you can check wait times for all attractions, view show schedules and meet-and-greet times, browse restaurant menus, and access much more. Be sure to check it periodically to help you plan the perfect experience!

Tips for the Best Times to Eat at Universal Orlando Resort

There truly is a strategy to timing your meals at Universal Orlando Resort. Restaurants and quick-service locations tend to fill up quickly during peak dining hours—between 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM for lunch and 5:30 PM and 7:30 PM for dinner. To avoid long lines, it’s best to plan your meals outside these times.

If you’d rather enjoy a full-service meal during these busy times, I highly suggest making a reservation whenever possible to ensure your party is accommodated. However, if your schedule is flexible, dining during off-peak hours can make for a much smoother and more enjoyable experience.

Best Times to Ride

Timing is also crucial when planning out your attractions at Universal Orlando Resort. On my first visit, I rushed straight to the most popular rides in the morning or jumped in line right before the park closed, only to find that many others had the same idea. Now, I’ve learned that some of the best times to jump in these queues are actually midday to around two hours before the park closes. This strategy helps you avoid the early morning or last-minute rush.

Do you have your own tips to share? Discuss it all with 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. Plus, purchase discounted theme park admission here and secure your Universal Orlando Resort hotel on our website. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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Grinchmas takes place in Seuss Landing, where the island is decorated with yuletide decorations, an ensemble of Who-ville residents eager to share their season’s greetings with guests, and a meet and greet with the Grinch himself! At the center of Seuss Landing’s holiday who-bilation is The Grinchmas Who-liday Specatcular, a heartwarming live show starring the Grinch in a re-telling of How the Grinch Stole Christmas.

Grinchmas is undoubtedly a holiday must-do for many Orlando visitors. Since its 2000 debut, Grinchmas has evolved into a fully fledged event with a massive following. Given its long-standing popularity, it’s inspired us to unwrap the history of Grinchmas and how it went from a temporary attraction to something beloved by many and that, unfathomably, could have been lost to us all.

The Early Years of Grinchmas History at Seuss Landing: 2000–2006

Universal Pictures’ award-winning film, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, premiered to the masses on November 17, 2000. Following its successful release, the movie studio quickly made plans to bring its story to life for audiences in a whole new way.

To do so, they created promotional experiences in both Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort. The event known as Grinchmas would break ground on the West Coast not long after the film’s theatrical release. Fun fact: the Universal Studios Backlot served as an actual filming location for How the Grinch Stole Christmas!

In December of that same year, Universal Orlando Resort would give their version of Grinchmas the perfect home at Seuss Landing in Islands of Adventure for the holiday season. To capture the charm of Who-ville from the 2000 movie, Seuss Landing was completely adorned with festive Christmas decor. Guests could meet the many residential Whos throughout the island and even encounter The Grinch in his lair.

The Mean One’s walk-through attraction once occupied the space where The High in the Sky Seuss Trolley now stands, bringing the world of the Jim Carrey film to life. Guests could engage with interactive elements throughout the queue, leading up to a memorable meet-and-greet with the Grinch.

To top it all off, Universal Orlando Resort introduced a street show in Seuss Landing that reenacted How the Grinch Stole Christmas in three parts. Performed throughout the day, the show concluded with a daily lighting of the Who-ville tree. Though it was only meant to be a temporary event, Grinchmas was so popular that it ran annually until 2005. It was then that Universal Orlando Resort decided to cease their Who-bilations for the 2006 season with no plans for Grinchmas to return.

Or so it would seem…

The Evolution of Grinchmas at Seuss Landing: 2007 to Today

Hearing their guests’ demand, Universal Orlando Reosrt’s heart grew three sizes as they declared Grinchmas would return in 2007. Upon its reinstatement, Grinchmas took on a brand new form.

With the High in the Sky Seuss Trolley being built in the former housing of the Grinch’s lair, Who-ville’s Holiday Cheermeister would begrudgingly take photos with guests at the All the Books You Can Read store.

With the Grinch’s move to a new venue, Universal Orlando Resort introduced the Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular—a family friendly stage show hosted in one of the park’s backlot soundstages. Featuring music composed by Mannheim Steamroller’s Chip Davis, the production masterfully combines elements from Dr. Seuss’ classic story, the animated special, and the 2000 live-action film. The show remains a beloved staple of the event to this day.

As Grinchmas’ return was so well-received, little has changed over time. The Grinch now greets guests at Honk Honkers, while Whoville’s cheerful residents can be spotted strolling through Seuss Landing at various times.

Discuss your holiday plans and more with 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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And here’s the best part—it’s a family-friendly experience, open to guests of all ages!

Green and Red Coconut Club Schedule

From November 22 through December 22, the Green and Red Coconut Club welcomes you every Wednesday through Sunday, starting at 5 PM. Then, from December 23 through December 31, the club opens every day to celebrate the height of the season.

Starting November 24, don’t miss Ugly Sweater Sundays, where you can rock your gaudiest, most over-the-top holiday sweaters. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the season in style—or lack thereof!

A Look Inside Mistletoe Pine Ski Lodge

Step into a magical winter wonderland that captures all the cozy vibes of a ski resort without ever leaving Florida! From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted with an Instagram-worthy photo op featuring charming lodge signage and a whimsical ski lift that’s sure to make your friends back home wish they were here.

As you explore, you’ll be dazzled by twinkling lights adorning almost every corner, casting a soft, enchanting glow across the space. And what’s a ski lodge without some classic après-ski fun? Take a break from the “slopes” to enjoy board games and foosball, inviting you to linger a little longer. Mistletoe Pines has truly pulled out all the stops to bring the joy of the season to life—so hang up your skis and soak it all in!

Green and Red Coconut Club Menu

Cocktails

Overproof Nog – $16.25
Planteray O.F.T.D. Rum, condensed and evaporated milk, cream of coconut, cinnamon, vanilla, clove, nutmeg

Après-Ski Swizzle – $19.00
Cruzan Aged Dark Rum, Green Chartreuse, pineapple & lime juice, BG Reynolds Orgeat Syrup, simple syrup, garnished with a pineapple wedge

Hot Toddy – $15.50
Old Forrester Bourbon, lemon juice, orange blossom honey, hot water, garnished with a lemon wheel

The Fireplace – $16.25
Torres 10-Year Brandy, Fireball Cinnamon Whiskey, lemon juice, maple syrup, Angry Orchard Hard Cider, garnished with a lemon wheel

White Elephant – $17.00
New Amsterdam Vodka, Dekuyper Créme de Menthe, Bailey’s Irish Créme, J.F. Haden’s Espresso Liqueur, half and half, chocolate syrup, red glitter sugar rim

Hot Buttered Rum – $15.50
Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, hot water, Angostura Bitters

Nog Mocktail – $10.00
Condensed and evaporated milk, cream of coconut, cinnamon, vanilla, clove, nutmeg

Beverages

Angry Orchard – $12.25

Yuengling – $11.25

Bud Light – $11.25

Blue Moon – $12.25

Crooked Can Black Frost – $12.25

Einstök Doppelbock – $11.25

Stella Artois – $13.00

The Green and Red Coconut Club officially opens with the Holidays at Universal, which runs from November 22 to December 31, 2024. Unwrap exclusive savings on your Universal Orlando Resort visit through Orlando Informer here.

Discuss it all with 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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Wicked: The Experience officially opens on Saturday, November 16. So let’s all rejoicify! We’ve got your first look at Wicked: The Experience and can’t wait to share the wonderful details.

A Look Behind the Curtain at the Experience

Take a journey that retraces the path of Elphaba and Glinda’s evolving friendship, starting at Shiz University. Explore a treasure trove of pink and green-themed merchandise alongside iconic replicas: their Shiz dorm room, Glinda’s sparkling pink bubble dress, her “Popular” peignoir and teddy, Elphaba’s cozy nightwear, and Nessarose’s Ozdust dress—don’t miss those shoes!

We continue into a museum-style showcase at the Ozdust Ballroom. Admire Glinda and Elphaba’s attire alongside Fiyero’s dashing ensemble. Across the room, glass displays feature school uniforms, Madame Morrible’s opulent gown, and Galinda’s training wand.

Then, journey to the Emerald City in a dazzling showcase of green brilliance. Here, you’ll find the Wizard’s sharp suit and jacket alongside unique photo ops. And in the corner? Elphaba’s unforgettable “Defying Gravity” ensemble—hat, cape, broom, and all.

And throughout it all, you’ll discover an incredible selection of clothing, accessories, toys, and more—perfect for bringing the magic of Wicked along with you wherever you go!

Other Wicked Offerings at Universal Orlando Resort

Just a few steps away from Wicked: The Experience is a quick-service food stand offering snacks and drinks fitting to its pink and green backdrop. Here’s what’s available:

Food

Ozvocado Toast – $10.99
Artisan-style black bread with smashed avocado, sweety drop peppers, pickled onions, feta cheese

Pink Goes Well With Green Scroll – $7.99
Matcha Cake with Vanilla Whipped Ganache

Strawberry Waffle – $7.99
Pearled sugar waffle with strawberry whipped topping, strawberry cream crumbs, and sparkle dust

Breakfiz Croissant – $7.99
Black Forrest Ham with cheddar cheese and a poppy seed croissant

Drinks

Ozdust Punch Cocktail – $15.00
Olmeca Altos Plata Tequila, Bols Blue Curaçao, lime, and pineapple juice topped with Fresca

Ozdust Punch Mocktail – $8.00
Blue Curaçao syrup, lime, and pineapple juice topped with Fresca

The Sparkling Emerald – $11.00
Sparkling Green Limoncello Spritz

Shimmering Spritz – $11.00
Sparkling Pink Blueberry Spritz

Guests can also indulge in witchy-inspired treats, such as cookies, cupcakes, s’mores, and more – all at Croissant Moon Bakery in Islands of Adventure. Over at Universal CityWalk, the fun continues with Wicked-themed delights at Voodoo Doughnut and a spellbinding milkshake at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen.

And for all you style-savvy wizards and sorceresses, the Universal Studios Store at Universal CityWalk is stocked with Galinda-approved apparel, home goods, accessories, and more!

Discuss it all with 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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In case you missed it, Universal Horror Unleashed is set to be a year-round horror experience in Las Vegas, Nevada, designed to keep your adrenaline pumping between seasons of Halloween Horror Nights. This addition will haunt the 20-acre expansion of the AREA15 entertainment district. Originally announced in January 2023, we’ve been eagerly awaiting more details, and now, the nightmare is becoming a reality!

Universal Horror Unleashed will feature four haunted houses: Universal Monsters, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, Scarecrow: The Reaping, and Blumhouse’s The Exorcist: Believer. These attractions are surrounded by four immersive, themed areas, each offering unique live entertainment. Select locations will serve up horror-inspired eats and drinks. Plus, the experience will be continuously updated with must-see seasonal events and exclusive, one-of-a-kind merchandise.

“Universal’s rich history in the creation of the horror genre drove our desire to bring a year-round horror experience to the incredible entertainment offerings in Las Vegas,” said Page Thompson, President of New Ventures for UDX. “We’re thrilled to have our award-winning Creative and Entertainment teams working tirelessly to bring these terrors to life in 2025.”

Can’t wait until 2025 to experience Universal Horror Unleashed? You’re in luck—there are still four more nights of Halloween Horror Nights 2024, running on October 31 and November 1, 2, and 3. Even better, you can save on admission by purchasing your tickets through Orlando Informer here!

Do you have any tips to overcome coaster fears? Discuss it all with 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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Boris Shuster is also ingrained in Universal Studios Florida itself. Guests can visit the facade of his detective office during the park’s daytime hours any time of the year. He’s known to frequent The Kitty Kat Club’s jazz shows in his downtime, and Louie’s Italian Restaurant is his favorite go-to meal in New York. Boris even had a summer home in Amity Island prior to its transformation to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley. Halloween Horror Nights mastermind Michael Aiello has even gone on record to say that he considers Boris Shuster an event icon – a fact that this writer wouldn’t argue, given the information presented.

With such an intricate connection to the park, it’s no wonder that Boris Shuster would inevitably be part of the event mythos. So, let’s shine a spotlight on the gritty details that connect Boris Shuster to the lore of Halloween Horror Nights.

Reflections of Fear (2008)

In 1948, Boris Shuster began a new career as a private investigator after retiring from the New York Police Department. Unfortunately, this led Boris to uncover the strange underbelly of the city. He encountered the likes of ghouls and she-devils in cases that would haunt even the most staunch investigator. However, his most impactful encounter came ten years later when he crossed paths with Dr. Mary Agana, otherwise known as the supernatural being Bloody Mary.

In the fall of 1958, Boris hired freelance photographer Charlie McPherson to assist with a divorce investigation. After the lensman had abruptly vanished, Shuster took concern. Boris knew Charlie was seeing a new therapist, Dr. Mary Agana, who specialized in fear, and that her practice had been called into question. Booking himself as a regular patient of Dr. Agana, the detective began finding evidence of her experimenting on her patients, including Charlie. He also noticed that Agana became increasingly younger and that she began talking to her music box.

On the night of August 27, Dr. Agana was murdered. The details of her death are murky, but it was originally suspected that Boris had killed her after a brief struggle. Though he was arrested that same night in relation to Mary’s death, the charges were dropped after an ex-con who worked for her came forth with a confession. However, it wasn’t the murder that was the strangest part of the case. It was that Mary Agana’s body went missing sometime during the investigation. It wouldn’t be learned until later, but the truth was that Agana’s death would allow her to become the powerful entity Bloody Mary.

Though Boris walked away a free man, his experiences still haunted him. He’d had constant interactions with the paranormal since 1948, but everything since tuned him into something larger happening in the world. This led him to establish the Legendary Truth, a collective joining him with researchers to investigate the paranormal. 50 years later, the Legendary Truth would reopen Bloody Mary’s case, returning to the crime scene. They’d discover that Mary Agana’s transformation into a god-like being with unfathomable power and that she’d become a devoted follower of Adaru, the God of Fear.

Case Files Unearthed: Legendary Truth (2021)

Boris Shuster’s encounters with the supernatural would lead him to author a series of detective novels based on his experiences. These same novels gained the attention of conspiracy theorist and amateur sleuth Tim Foyle, whom we’re introduced to in the 2021 house, Case Files Unearthed: Legendary Truth. Through the house’s narrative, we learn that Tim broke into Boris’ Delancey Street office on the night of October 25, 1991. Desperate to know more about the detective and his group, Foyle learned about Boris Shuster’s early days as a detective via the gumshoe’s novels and discovered that each case had led the sleuth to mystic totems.

As it turned out, Shuster had never rid himself of the totems. As if drawn by some dark, unearthly force, Foyle brought the totems together, placing them into an arcane circle. What truly happened to Tim Foyle thereafter is highly debated, but it’s generally accepted that he met his fate that night. Whether it was a sacrificial one or otherwise will never be known. What is known is that the totems were actually keys to unlocking a demonic dimension that held the Legions of Horror — the very monsters that originally wrought Halloween Horror Nights upon our world.

Boris Shuster’s Other Halloween Horror Nights Appearances

Since 2021, the last canon reference of Boris Shuster noted that he had gone missing via viral marketing, but that doesn’t mean Boris hasn’t made other appearances since then.

As part of Halloween Horror Nights Tribute Store’s The Tribute to Terror comic book theme in 2023, Boris appeared in the short story “False Idols Pt. 1: A Boris Shuster Mystery.” This was a black-and-white noir story in which Boris investigates the murder of his brother, Jake, at the hands of fish people who worship a Cthulu-type monster. Guests entered the Shuster Brothers’ detective agency and passed by narrative comic panels filled with references from Halloween Horror Nights lore of years past.

The following year, in 2024, references to the Shuster Brothers were found within the tribute store’s post-apocalyptic theme. This time, keen-eyed guests could spot an idol of the monster worshiped by the aforementioned fish people among the graffiti lining the store’s walls. With it, the messages “Jake Shuster still lives!” and “Boris wuz here” were spray-painted, all acting as clear references to the previous year.

Although these stories are said to have occurred in an alternate “what if” styled universe, and it’s unclear how the Shusters are connected to the 2024 tribute store’s bat creature story, we’re still left excited that Boris Shuster’s legend lives on.

Halloween Horror Nights runs on select nights from August 30 through November 3. Find out everything you need to know about tickets here. Discuss it all with 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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Located within Epic Universe’s Celestial Park, Universal Helios Grand Hotel offers guests an immersive and luxurious experience themed around the palace of Helios, the Greek god of the sun. This retreat will feature celestial patterns, constellations, and Mediterranean-inspired designs, offering a unique blend of myth and luxury. One of its biggest perks? Because of its location inside Celestial Park, guests staying here will enjoy exclusive access to a dedicated entrance to Epic Universe, offering unparalleled convenience.

Universal Helios Grand Hotel plans to offer 500 rooms, many of which provide breathtaking views of both Epic Universe and the Orlando skyline. For fans of How to Train Your Dragon, Viking village-themed suites inspired by Berk will add a touch of magic to their stay. 

The dining experiences at Universal Helios Grand Hotel are just as lavish, with a range of restaurants and dining experiences designed to satisfy all tastes. 

Learn more about Universal Orlando Resort hotels and make a reservation for Universal Helios Grand Hotel here.

And don’t forget – Epic Universe tickets are now on sale here! If you’re reserving your stay at Universal Helios Grand Hotel, now is the perfect time to purchase your tickets to ensure your stay is one to remember!

Discuss it all with 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook, and secure your hotel reservations here. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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To help you navigate the ticket options, we’ve broken down everything you need to know.

If you’re planning a visit to Epic Universe, you’ll need to purchase a multi-day ticket, as single-day tickets for the park are not currently available—except for Annual Passholders. These Epic Universe tickets include one day of access to the new park plus entry to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure on other days. Some ticket options also include Volcano Bay, perfect for guests looking to enjoy a water park during their stay. Keep in mind, however, that park-hopping to or from Epic Universe will not be allowed. 

For the days you aren’t visiting Epic Universe, you can choose how you explore the rest of Universal Orlando Resort. There are two main options for your Epic Universe multi-day tickets:

• One Park Per Day: This option allows access to one theme park per day, excluding Epic Universe
• Park-to-Park: Hop between qualifying parks on the same day (again, excluding Epic Universe)

Explore the variety of Epic Universe ticket options here to find the best fit for your trip. These multi-day tickets give you exclusive access to Epic Universe for one day while also allowing you to enjoy Universal’s other popular theme parks. Here’s a breakdown of the number of days available on tickets for visiting Epic Universe:

• 3-Day Ticket: enjoy two days of access to Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure, plus one separate day admission to Universal Epic Universe
• 4-Day Ticket: enjoy three days of access to Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure, plus one separate day admission to Universal Epic Universe
• 5-Day Ticket: enjoy four days of access to Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure, plus one separate day admission to Universal Epic Universe

Universal Orlando Annual Passholders receive a priority opportunity to purchase Single-Day Tickets to Universal Epic Universe beginning October 24.

Prepare for an experience like no other at Epic Universe, where adventure meets innovation. This state-of-the-art theme park is made up of five distinct areas: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, Dark Universe, and Celestial Park. Each world offers cutting-edge attractions, themed dining, interactive experiences, live entertainment, and more that will captivate visitors of all ages. There’s truly something for everyone to enjoy!

For a deeper look at Universal’s next theme park, check out our complete guide. Stay up-to-date with the latest Epic Universe updates by signing up for our email notifications here!

Discuss it all with 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook! And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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Epic Universe is not just an additional gate for the resort but a transformative experience, bringing with it three exciting new accommodation options to Universal Orlando Resort, including the Universal Helios Grand Hotel. This hotel is themed after the palace of Helios, the Greek god of the sun, adorned with celestial patterns, constellations, and Mediterranean-inspired design. What makes this hotel stand out is its prime location within Celestial Park—right inside Epic Universe. The best part? Guests staying here will have exclusive access to a dedicated entrance to Epic Universe, offering unparalleled convenience.

Beyond its stellar location, Universal Helios Grand Hotel boasts 500 rooms, many offering stunning views of Epic Universe and the surrounding Orlando skyline. How to Train Your Dragon fans will love the immersive Viking village-themed suites inspired by Berk, adding a touch of adventure to their stay. Dining options at Universal Helios Grand Hotel will cater to a variety of tastes, making it a destination not just for theme park lovers but for food enthusiasts as well.

Learn more about Universal Orlando Resort hotels and book your stay here. 

This exciting news coincides with the announcement of the official opening date of Epic Universe, slated for May 22, 2025. This state-of-the-art theme park features five immersive areas: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, Dark Universe, and Celestial Park, each offering cutting-edge attractions, themed dining, live entertainment and more! 

As we prepare for the opening date of Universal Helios Grand Hotel, check out our complete guide on Universal’s newest expansion. Stay up-to-date with the latest Epic Universe updates by signing up for our email notifications here!

Discuss it all with 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook, and secure your hotel reservations here. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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As Epic Universe’s opening date approaches, one crucial detail is how to secure your tickets. To visit Epic Universe, guests will need to purchase a multi-day ticket, as single-day tickets for the park will not be available at this time, except for Annual Passholders. The multi-day ticket includes one day of access to Epic Universe and entry to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure on the other days. Please note that park-hopping to or from Epic Universe will not be allowed at this time. Here is a list of the multi-day ticket options that will become available beginning October 22, 2024:

• 3-Day Ticket: enjoy two days of access to Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure, plus one separate day admission to Universal Epic Universe
• 4-Day Ticket: enjoy three days of access to Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure, plus one separate day admission to Universal Epic Universe
• 5-Day Ticket: enjoy four days of access to Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure, plus one separate day admission to Universal Epic Universe

Universal Orlando Annual Passholders receive priority opportunity to purchase Single-Day Tickets to Universal Epic Universe beginning October 24.

For more information on tickets to Universal Orlando Resort and to secure your admission, check here.

Prepare for an experience like no other at Epic Universe, where adventure meets innovation. This state-of-the-art theme park is made up of five distinct areas: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, Dark Universe, and Celestial Park. Each world offers cutting-edge attractions, themed dining, interactive experiences, live entertainment, and more that will captivate visitors of all ages. There’s truly something for everyone to enjoy!

For a deeper look at Universal’s next theme park, check out our complete guide. Stay up-to-date with the latest Epic Universe updates by signing up for our email notifications here!

Discuss it all with 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook and snag discounted admission here. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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SeaWorld Orlando: Family Halloween Activities in Central Florida

Halloween Spooktacular at SeaWorld is a yearly celebration that takes place on select dates from now until November 3 and occurs between 12 PM and 5 PM. The event features a harvest maze, scarecrow dance parties, mermaid meet-and-greets, and story time for the little ones in the pumpkin garden. As part of SeaWorld’s Halloween celebrations, guests are welcome to dress in their favorite costumes with a few minor exceptions. Please keep in mind that costume masks and hoods aren’t allowed for those ages 13 and older, and face painting is only permitted if done by park artists.

Spooktacular is included with park admission to SeaWorld Orlando, but anyone wanting to make their memories extra special has plenty of options at an additional cost. Treat lovers can participate in the candy trail, made up of parkwide trick-or-treat stations, by purchasing a reusable SeaWorld trick-or-treat bag from many of the park’s merchandise locations, such as the SeaWorld Store. Additionally, the treasure hunters in the family can earn a special prize by completing The Spooktacular Scavenger Hunt Map, which can be bought at Coconut Bay Traders.

Our favorite of the add-on options is the Shamu and Crew Spooktacular Breakfast. The buffet-style meal takes place at Seafire Grill and features Shamu and his friends decked out in their Halloween attire along with great menu items like two choices of scrambled eggs (that’s regular and Western omelet style for those keeping notes), sausage gravy, biscuits, French toast sticks, and more. It’s important to know that this is specific to Saturdays and Sundays, meaning space may be limited. Those interested will want to reserve their spot ASAP!

Busch Gardens: Top Family Halloween Fun in Central Florida

Halloween Harvest at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is a family-friendly festival that takes place from now until October 27 (plus Halloween Day!). The event captures the spirit of Fall in rich, seasonal colors, features a plethora of pumpkins, and Kandy’s Sweetacular Celebration. This weekend-only event is hosted by Kandy, a witch-in-training who loves sweets and conjures up fun, kid-friendly activities between 12 PM and 4 PM every Saturday and Sunday at the Festival Walkway.

As part of Kandy’s seasonal magic, guests can find many things happening throughout Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Kandy’s World is a show where Kandy shares her story of loving candy and becoming a real witch — which may coincidentally involve the time she accidentally turned her friends into frogs. There’s also Kandy’s Sweetacular Celebration Costume Parade, where every kid gets a moment to shine in a vibrant parade of costumes, and Taffy Twist’s Black Cat Dance Party, where guests can groove and show off their moves in a bubble-filled, high-energy dance party.

Sesame Street friends are also joining the Halloween excitement with even more dance parties, storytimes, scavenger hunts, and a special radio show hosted by the one and only Count von Count!

Orlando Informer offers discounted admission to some of the best family Halloween activities in Central Florida, such as SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, as well as Howl-O-Scream for older kids. Click here to access savings!

Other Family-Friendly Halloween Events

Halloween fun isn’t limited to the major theme parks—Central Florida communities are getting in on the action, too, offering plenty of family-friendly events! Fall festivals happen at many local establishments. One of our favorites is over in Clermont at Southern Hills Farms. The 9th Annual Fall Festival runs Thursdays through Sundays until November 17, offering an incredible selection of things to do. Included in the admission price—$22 on weekdays and $25 on weekends—are a petting zoo, face painting, wagon rides, a 5-acre corn maze, yard games, and a dedicated kid zone. For additional fees, families can explore a u-pick pumpkin patch, stroll through sunflower and zinnia fields, and enjoy a food truck garden, a beer shed, and a market offering farm-made goods.

Those staying in the International Drive area have an excellent option at the Sea Life Aquarium at Icon Park. Now through November 3, the establishment takes the entire family on a seven-seas tour of pirate history in their Pirates of the Haunted Seas experience. Guests can learn about pirate lore, discover the incredible sea creatures at Sea Life, and snag some candy loot at their education stations. Sea Life’s Pirates of the Haunted Seas event takes place Fridays through Sundays in October, as well as from October 29 to November 1. The event is included with admission, which ranges from $29.99 to $39.99 plus tax.

Just minutes from International Drive, Harry P. Leu Gardens is hosting its Happy Frights experience daily until October 31. As part of the event, the entirety of Harry P. Leu Gardens is redone in a seasonal makeover with sections ranging from a murky, mysterious swamp to a crazy clown carnival. While strolling the gardens, guests can experience a hedge maze, a hip-hop dance party with aliens, live music, and eight trick-or-treat stations. Adult admission is $28.00 and includes entry to the experience, one alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage served in a commemorative LED cup, plus the option between a commemorative bucket of popcorn (with one free refill) or a Phat Ash Bakes chocolate chip cookie, along with onsite parking for one car. Children ages 3 to 11 are $26.25, which includes entry, one non-alcoholic beverage, and the choice of a commemorative bucket of popcorn (with one free refill) or a Phat Ash Bakes chocolate chip cookie. It also includes one selection from a variety of merchandise items, excluding the event’s Shoulder Bat.

Be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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The Incredible Hulk Coaster Height Requirements

If you decide to check out that enormous green track on the horizon of Universal’s Islands of Adventure, you and your ride companions must be 54 inches or taller to ride. You will also need to leave all of your belongings in one of the free lockers near the entrance before you go through the metal detector. This is a pretty intense adventure, so you don’t want to lose anything that might be in your pockets.

The Incredible Hulk Coaster Story

The Incredible Hulk Coaster is one of the most high-energy attractions you will experience. Refurbished in 2015, it’s also one of the smoother thrills throughout the parks. As you enter the queue, you are recruited by General Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross for an experiment to replicate the mad science accident that transformed Dr. Bruce Banner into The Incredible Hulk. As you proceed, you’ll watch videos of previous recruits and their results. 

The Incredible Hulk Coaster Ride Vehicle

The Incredible Hulk Coaster Ride vehicles have four seats across and over-the-shoulder harnesses that buckle in from the bottom. There are also bars on the harness for you to hold onto if that keeps you from Hulking out too much. 

If you’re feeling a bit nervous, try the test seat located near the entrance of The Incredible Hulk Coaster. It will let you familiarize yourself with the seating, helping boost your confidence!

The Incredible Hulk Coaster Ride Experience

Want to try before you ride? Here’s a great POV video to show you what’s in store. Fun fact: if you’re a Fall Out Boy fan, the lead singer Patrick Stump composed the soundtrack that you’ll hear through the vehicle speakers during your journey!

Speed

The ride starts with a powerful launch, blasting you with gamma radiation and propelling you from 0 to 40 mph in just two seconds, straight into an inversion. The coaster does have a midcourse brake, but after that initial launch, the coaster reaches top speeds of 67 mph. 

Direction

This is about as intense as a coaster gets. It has seven inversions, including two vertical loops, a cobra roll, a zero-g roll, and two corkscrews. While the ride does not go backward, there are two subterranean trenches with some mist, which can be quite refreshing on a hot Orlando summer day!

Length

The Incredible Hulk Coaster is 3,700 feet long and has a ride time of about two minutes and 15 seconds. After its complete refurbishment in 2015—and I do mean complete, as the entire coaster was disassembled and rebuilt—it’s remarkably smooth, especially given all the twists and turns.

Height

The maximum height of The Incredible Hulk Coaster is 112 feet, and the biggest drop during the ride is 105 feet. 

Other features

We mentioned the refurbishment previously, as well as Patrick Stump’s awesome new ride soundtrack, but another fun fact is that before you embark on this thrill, there is a statue of the Hulk himself standing at the entrance with a section of the track from the previous version of the attraction behind him. 

If you choose not to ride…

Hopefully, this guide gives you all you need to know about the Incredible Hulk Coaster, but if you decide it’s not something you want to experience, you’re in luck. If you have friends or family who want to ride and you are left with a few minutes to yourself, Cafe 4 is right next door. This quick-service restaurant offers tasty pizza, pasta, sodas, and even beer. There’s a fun photo op outside in the Fantasticar. And if you’re not hungry, nearby is an arcade with claw games, video games, and even a pinball machine!

Do you have any tips to overcome coaster fears? Discuss it all with 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook and purchase discounted theme park admission here. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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Therapy dogs are known to lower blood pressure, reduce heart rates, and ease anxiety—factors that can significantly affect travelers navigating airport stresses. That’s why, several times a week, MCO Paw Pilots, a group of certified therapy dogs, visit Orlando International Airport to offer comfort and joy during these challenging moments.

The MCO Paw Pilots program includes 16 teams, each consisting of a volunteer handler and their therapy dog, certified through the Alliance of Therapy Dogs. After gaining a year of experience, the dogs undergo an interview process with MCO to ensure they’re ready to unleash their skills on the traveling public.

If you spot one in action, don’t hesitate to ask their handler for a business card—it’s a great way to learn more about your new furry friend!

While the MCO Paw Pilots don’t have a set schedule, you can check Orlando International Airport’s social media for the latest information on when you can meet them.

Be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit Height Requirement

Before hopping aboard one of the most recognizable coasters at Universal Orlando Resort, you and your ride companions must be 51 inches or taller to experience Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit. Keep in mind that you will need to leave all of your belongings in one of the free lockers near the entrance before you go through the attraction’s metal detector.

Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit Story

Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit is easily one of the most unique coasters you will ever board. You’re stepping onto the set of your very own music video—and yes, you can purchase a copy after the ride! While you wait in the queue, your video directors will introduce you to the various music genres available for your ride. Once seated, a screen on your lap bar will display a selection of genres and songs that will blast through your personal seat speakers, setting the perfect soundtrack for your experience! Hasta! 

Plus, there is a secret song list, which we share all the choices and details here. Be sure to select your secret song before you take off! That said, if you choose one of these hidden tunes, you cannot buy a video of your ride due to separate licensing rights.

Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit Ride Vehicle

The vehicles for Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit are as unique as the ride itself. You’ll take a moving walkway to reach your ride vehicle. There are two seats next to each other with a wide lap bar that comes over your midsection. That’s where you will find the song selection screen and the two handlebars for you to hold onto if you’re not a “put your hands in the air like you just don’t care” rider. These vehicles also offer stadium seating, so you will still feel like you’re in the front row, even if you aren’t.

If you are feeling a bit nervous, why not give the test seat a try? It’s conveniently located near the attraction’s entrance. This is a fantastic way to familiarize yourself with the seating before the ride begins, helping you feel more confident and ready to enjoy the adventure!

Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit Ride Ride Experience

Want a sneak peek before you ride? Here’s a great POV video that shows what’s in store:

Speed

Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit is a typical coaster as opposed to a launch coaster. The steel track is actually filled with sand and gravel to reduce noise—fun fact, this helps you hear your chosen song even better! There are six sets of brakes on this coaster, but again, no launches. The coaster reaches a top speed of 65 mph.

Direction

Although Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit may look like it has loops and corkscrews, there are actually no full inversions on the ride. You also won’t be going backward—just speeding forward straight into your rock star moment!

Length

Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit has an impressive 3,800-foot steel track and lasts a little over a minute and a half.

Height

Height is one of the most awe-inspiring parts of this coaster. When you enter Universal Studios Florida, it’s impossible to miss the 90-degree top hat towering over the park at 167 feet tall. Another super unique feature of Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit is what they call “The Double Take.” That’s the huge loop you see when you’re looking at the ride, but this 136-foot tall maneuver has you going on top of it as opposed to inverting you upside down. It offers some great views of Production Central and the New York area of Universal Studios Florida.

Other features

This is one of these coasters where, if you enjoy it, you’ll want to experience it in the daytime and once the sun goes down. A nighttime ride offers a fantastic light show to go along with your personal song choice. For an even more epic experience, if there’s a concert happening on the stage below, you’ll get a totally unique view of the show!

If you choose not to ride…

If Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit isn’t for you, but maybe you have friends or family who plan to ride, don’t worry. Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast is right around the corner for you to check out. Or, if you just want to take a load off, Illumination’s Minion Cafe is across the street, offering fun snacks, treats, and air conditioning for those warmer Orlando days! And if it’s one of the cooler months, feel free to stretch out on the lawn in front of the stage.

Do you have any tips to overcome coaster fears? Discuss it all with 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook and purchase discounted theme park admission here. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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That, readers, is precisely what we’re going to get into.

A Brief History of Major Sweets at Halloween Horror Nights

Major Sweets was first introduced in 2022 as part of the New York scare zone Sweet Revenge. The zone appeared as a 1950s Halloween parade set in the town of Hollow Hills, but it had a sinister twist — the candy distributed by the Major Sweets Candy Co. turned the children into cold-blooded killers! The zone’s story was also uniquely tied in with that year’s Tribute Store via newspaper clippings posted around the shop.

We weren’t the only ones who loved the Sweet Revenge scare zone. It was so popular that Universal created a prequel house, Major Sweets’ Candy Factory, just two years later for Halloween Horror Nights 2024. Universal Orlando Resort elaborated on Major Sweets’ background via short stories that accompanied the announcements of both Sweet Revenge and Major Sweets Candy Factory. Fans can find these on the park’s official Discover Universal podcast. The short stories are great supplements to understanding Halloween Horror Nights lore and how they fit into the event. This could require some digging, but don’t worry — we did the legwork on Major Sweets for you.

Now, let’s take a bite to see who Major Sweets is.

The Untold Story of Major Sweets and the Lonely Boy

Back in the 1930s, there lived a young boy in the town of Hollow Hills who loved Halloween and candy. Every year, he’d dress up in full costume, and though he was excited for the holiday, his childhood was spent alone and bullied. The boy spent many lonely days staring out his second-story bedroom window while the other children played. While he was upset, never understanding why he was treated this way, he still desperately yearned for a friend.

Every afternoon, the boy would run from his troubles at school to his parents’ cinema, the Tribute Theater. Whether it was sneaking into one of the latest movies or spending quality time with his beloved parents, it was here where he’d escape both the torment of school bullies and his loneliness at home. As he got a little older, he started helping with the family business, with his father assigning him to work behind the snack counter.

One afternoon, as the boy took inventory of the candies, a girl his age asked for a recommendation. After a moment’s pondering, the boy suggested lollipops. She took two, thanked him, and left one for the boy. With a grand smile, he realized something special just happened. The girl returned often and became a lifelong friend of the boy.

Tragedy Strikes the Tribute Theater

In 1939, the boy and girl had become part of the Tribute Theater’s official staff. Coming into his shift one day, the boy planned on meeting with his dad as he always had before getting to his duties. He greeted his friend, who was already on her shift, making his way to his father’s office only to find no one there. Noticing his parents’ absence, he and the girl decided to clean the theater before the next movie to surprise them upon returning.

Eagerly entering the screening room with his cleaning supplies in hand, the boy noticed two patrons still seated. From a distance, he announced that the movie was over, and everyone had to leave in order to clean the theater for the next screening. When there was no response, he moved closer, only to be struck by a horrifying realization — it was his parents! Rushing to their side, he frantically checked their pulses, but it was too late. His mother and father were gone, leaving the boy heartbroken and distraught.

Three years passed as news of their deaths spread throughout Hollow Hills. Overwhelmed with grief, the boy let his family’s theater fall into disrepair, spending his days sitting in the ticket booth, staring out the window, just as he had in his lonely youth. Eventually, the girl came with the gift of a lollipop, just as the boy’s only friend had all those years ago. Unwrapping their treats, an idea sparked — a way to bring life and positivity back to the theater: candy! A free piece with every ticket, one unlike anything their patrons had ever tasted!

The Tribute Theater’s Sweet New Deal

The friends began testing. They’d need a secret ingredient since honey and gelatin are passè and all too common. They dug deep into their ingredients until one stood out: “Potions. But what are potions doing in a…” The boy paused. As years of traumatic questions flooded in, he remembered his parents’ foam-lined lips, dilated pupils, and their faces frozen in pain. What had killed his parents was now as clear as the label before him — Poison!

Hearing his sudden outburst of grief, the girl came to her friend. As she comforted him, a suggestion was made: What if poison was their candy’s secret ingredient? The idea came all too naturally, and a plan began to take shape. After all this time, the boy and girl only had each other. There was no way to truly identify the killer, and there was no one in Hollow Hills they could trust. There seemed to be only one way to get their revenge.

Not long after, the Tribute Theater reopened with its new deal! The townies of Hollow Hill came in droves, and though the plan seemed a success, it had actually worked all too well. Families began losing members not long after seeing a flick. Hollow Hills’ newspapers and the rest of Progress County ran reports rife with allegations. Investigators had even started questioning the boy and girl directly at the theater. Overwhelmed, the friends fled and were, seemingly, never seen again.

Major Sweets Arrives in Hollow Hills

The Tribute Theater’s story would have ended prior to the 1950s if not for the newly elected Mayor of Hollow Hills. Though a newcomer, he was well aware of the theater’s controversial past. But unlike the rest of the town, he saw the potential for revival, with its former glory shining through its now musty cracks. Determined to make a name for himself and knowing Hollow Hills had once loved that theater as much as they love Halloween, he decided to transform it into a family-friendly venue. Its first event? Hollow Hills’ first annual Halloween Parade Party!

There were just some minor wrinkles: The theater was in dire need of refurbishment, and what’s Halloween without candy? Fortunately, a new candy manufacturer, Major Sweets’ Candy Co., had just opened nearby. The mayor paid a visit and met the owner — Major Sweets himself! Sweets was a boisterous character, sporting a pencil-thin mustache and eccentric attire. The mayor knew little about him but was sold on his confectionery expertise, and a deal was struck — Major Sweets would fund both the event and the refurbishments! At the center would be the theater’s return, the parade, and, of course, plenty of candy for all the children.

Major Sweets Candy Factory

A few days before the parade, Major Sweets opened his factory for public tours, with local schools eagerly participating. The excitement could be felt from all the students and even the chaperones over their newest celebration. However, none could have foreseen the horrors that were in store.

According to one of the surviving chaperones, things had begun normally enough. Miss Treats greeted everyone, ushering them into the factory and offering complimentary treats to the children. As the entry doors shut, hints of the chaos lurking within began to emerge. Sounds of children running and shouting could be heard as they passed the occasional smashed candy container. When questioned, Miss Treats would simply brush it off as “the effects of extreme sugar rush.”

As they entered the projector room, Major Sweets personally greeted everyone before playing footage of their latest experiments in candy concepts. Following this, room after room became overrun with sickly sweet danger as the children, and even Miss Treats, began attacking the chaperones with broken candy pieces and even factory tools.

What had caused this? In retrospect, it’s likely that the complimentary candy had turned the children ravenous, but to what end? As the chaperone had made his escape, he remembered hearing Major Sweets instructing his associates to round up the children, destroy all evidence of what happened, and prepare to head to the Halloween celebration.

If only Hollow Hills knew what was going to happen to their fair town.

Major Sweets’ Sweet Revenge: The Shocking Finale

Major Sweets and his crew made their way to the festival, where the candy maker would be honored for his contributions. As the event began, kids and the Hollow Hills denizens arrived in high spirits. Contests were held for the best Halloween costumes, with Miss Treats and Major Sweets giving extra special candy to the winners. After the event’s keystone parade, the mayor of Hollow Hills took to the judge’s booth, with his daughter blissfully in tow, to honor Major Sweets with the key to the town. It was then that things would take a dark turn.

Sweets thanked him, handing the mayor’s daughter a chocolate bar. After the first bite, the candy’s contaminated effects quickly took hold. The candy maker revealed a knife from his coat, which the daughter snatched away before stabbing her father several times, to the horror of onlookers. Major Sweets’ blackhearted plan was underway as he and Miss Treats threw open the doors of their trucks, releasing the army of candy-crazed children from the factory and revealing what can only be described as a mobile armory as they terrorized the town. The festival’s dreadfully bloody conclusion ended with several deaths as Major Sweets and Miss Treats stole the town’s highest honor and fled into the night.

Since then, investigators have tried to understand what actually happened in Hollow Hills. Although there’s no confirmation, the strongest evidence places Major Sweets and the lonely boy of the Tribute Store as one and the same. If that were true, then one must return to the identity of his parents’ killer. How did the poison get in the theater in the first place? Did he actually enact his “sweet revenge,” or was the killer still lurking, possibly even right under Sweets’ nose? This writer has his own thoughts on the matter, but only time will tell if we’ll ever get the truth lying at the center of this candy-coated horror story.

Halloween Horror Nights runs on select nights from August 30 through November 3. Find out everything you need to know about tickets here. Discuss it all with 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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With a minimum height requirement of just 39 inches, this adventure is designed for the whole family to enjoy. Riders will embark on a four-minute and thirty-second journey within one of two immersive multi-level theaters, each accommodating 30 guests. Plus, the indoor setting guarantees a cool, exciting escape no matter the weather, making it a year-round must-visit attraction.

After the ride, guests can continue their Arctic journey by visiting the Wild Arctic exhibit, where they’ll come face-to-face with beluga whales, walruses, and other incredible creatures from the frozen north.

This attraction was created in part by an award-winning production team, who filmed in some of the most remote areas of the Arctic, using custom-built equipment specifically created for this project.

“By bringing the wonders of the Arctic to life, we are offering guests an unparalleled and immersive experience that will create lasting memories for people of all ages,” said Jon Peterson, President of SeaWorld Orlando.

This new addition joins SeaWorld Orlando’s lineup of thrilling attractions, including Penguin Trek, which debuted earlier this year in July.

Prepare for your icy adventure by purchasing discounted SeaWorld Orlando admission through Orlando Informer here.

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Designed to spark the imagination and engage the senses of all ages, Wild Oasis plans to captivate guests with the sights and sounds of the rainforest. Experience the adrenaline rush of a newly reimagined drop tower with cutting-edge digital and sound effects, splash around in an interactive water-play area, and explore a multi-level climbing canopy. Plus, get up close with fascinating wildlife in a brand-new, multi-species animal habitat.

The President of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Stewart Clark, shared his excitement about the new addition: “The all-new Wild Oasis truly offers something for everyone – whether you love the thrill of the ride or learning about animals, getting wet or climbing high, or just cooling off under the shade of the rainforest canopy.”

Don’t miss out on this incredible adventure! Secure your visit with discounted tickets available through Orlando Informer here. 

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