If there were a word cloud describing why a solo visit is worth it, “freedom” would stand out the most. When you explore Universal Orlando Resort solo, you’re on your own schedule — or maybe no schedule at all! With only a little pun intended, a solo trip to Universal puts a universe of possibilities at your disposal.

Here are some of our favorite reasons to visit Universal Orlando Resort alone and how to make the most of your solo adventure!

Enjoy the Freedom to Explore Universal Orlando at Your Own Pace

Planning a group trip to a world-class destination like Universal Orlando Resort often takes teamwork — coordinating everyone’s schedules, balancing interests, and agreeing on must-do attractions. Even with the best intentions, it’s nearly impossible to please everyone at once. Sometimes that means not all of the mischief that everyone wants to get into is managed.

Going solo at Universal Orlando removes that challenge entirely. Want to take a quick stop into Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley on the way to catching Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees’ midday performance? Done! Planning on hunting down and mastering every single spell-casting location after riding Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry in Epic Universe on repeat? There’s no one to stop you from making your day as magical (and spontaneous) as you like.

Discover Hidden Gems When Visiting Universal Orlando Alone

When you visit Universal Orlando Resort alone, you can explore the parks on your own terms — including attractions and experiences many guests overlook. While major roller coasters like Jurassic World VelociCoaster and cutting-edge rides such as Transformers: The Ride – 3D often steal the spotlight, there’s so much more to uncover when you have the freedom of a solo Universal trip. (And don’t forget — single rider lines will be your best friend! You can find a full list of available attractions in our dedicated guide here.)

An often overlooked aspect of Islands of Adventure is its stunning views. Each land offers unique perspectives of the others, creating stunning photo opportunities and peaceful spots to pause between thrills.

The Universal Orlando App is an essential companion for anyone exploring Universal alone. You can track your score and see how you rank against other guests in Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast, or even customize your E-liminator X Blaster with special ammo through the app. Over in SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, guests can snag a Power-Up band to play the mini-games leading up to Bowser Jr.’s boss battle, climb the leaderboard, and earn digital trophies.

Traveling to Universal Orlando Resort alone also opens time to enjoy experiences that groups might skip, like the Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience in Epic Universe. Solo guests can choose between iconic creature transformations or opt for temporary tattoos inspired by Universal’s Classic Monsters.

Dining Solo at Universal Orlando Resort

Typically, when travelling as a group, everyone must agree on when and where to eat. But when you visit Universal Orlando Resort alone, every meal is on your terms. You can grab your favorite quick-service bites on the go or finally take your time at one of Universal’s best full-service restaurants, like Atlantic in Epic Universe’s Celestial Park.

Dining solo also comes with another perk — you can often skip the wait for a full table. Many Universal restaurants serve their complete menu right at the bar, giving you a relaxed, no-reservations-needed option.

You’re Never Truly Alone at Universal Orlando

At some point during your solo day, you may find yourself wishing there were a partner in crime to share the day with. The good thing here is that you’re never actually truly alone in this. In that same spirit, don’t be afraid to strike up a friendly conversation with fellow guests or Universal Team Members. Many parkgoers are happy to chat. You never know who you’ll meet! We’re all there to enjoy the park and share our experiences and memories, even if it’s over a few minutes of conversation.

A solo Universal Orlando Resort trip is all about freedom, fun, and finding joy in every moment. You’ll discover that sometimes the best company at the parks is your own!

Ready to plan your solo Universal Orlando Resort vacation? Join 180,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook, and purchase your discounted Universal Orlando Resort 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 Seven Lands of Universal Kids Resort

DreamWorks’ Shrek’s Swamp

Step into the fairytale world of Shrek and Fiona! In this whimsical land, you can splash around at Shrek’s Swamp Splash and Smash or take a storybook ride on Shrek & Fiona’s Happily Ogre After, where you’ll relive their legendary love story.

DreamWorks’ Puss in Boots Del Mar

It’s kitty adoption day in Del Mar! Join Puss in Boots, Mama Luna, and Perrito for festive fun, including attractions like Swings Over Del Mar and Mama Luna’s Puppet Show. Kids can try their luck at carnival games like Barriles de Leche and El Gato’s Meow, or unwind in a peaceful sensory garden designed for all to enjoy.

Illumination’s Minions vs. Minions: Bello Bay Club

At Bello Bay Club, things are getting delightfully chaotic! When the Yellow Minions try to tame their mischievous Purple counterparts, the result is a water-soaked showdown of epic proportions. Dive into the splash-filled fun, or sit back and watch the Minions’ hilarious antics unfold.

Jurassic World Adventure Camp

Go on a prehistoric adventure at Jurassic World Adventure Camp, where kids can meet baby dinosaurs and test their explorer skills. Brave rides like Jurassic World: Cretaceous Coaster and Mr. DNA’s Double Helix Spin, scale the Lookout Towers for sweeping views, and encounter a baby Raptor up close!

DreamWorks’ TrollsFest

Let the music move you at DreamWorks’ TrollsFest! Dance, sing, and play alongside Poppy and her friends in this high-energy land bursting with color and positivity. Experience interactive play zones like Poppy’s Playland and Trolls Critter Crawl, shine bright at Sparkle Shine Glitter Glow, and end the day dancing at Trolls Pop It Up.

Nickelodeon’s SpongeBob SquarePants: Bikini Bottom

Dive under the sea with SpongeBob, Patrick, and Sandy in Bikini Bottom. Families can splash around Mussel Beach, frolic through Jellyfish Fields, and test their boating skills at Mrs. Puff’s Boating School.

Isle of Curiosity with DreamWorks’ Gabby’s Dollhouse

Isle of Curiosity is a whimsical playtopia designed for discovery. With shade trees, cozy rest spots, and kid-friendly bites, it’s the perfect place to unwind. Join Gabby and her friends for an energetic dance party that brings imagination to life.

More About Universal Kids Resort

Beyond the lands and attractions, Universal Kids Resort is designed to nurture imagination and connection. Families will discover multiple sensory gardens, offering tranquil spaces to pause and recharge between adventures. These calming, nature-inspired environments encourage exploration through touch, sound, and color, creating balance within a day of excitement.

After the fun, families can unwind just steps away at the Universal Kids Resort Hotel. This 300-room hotel will serve as both a cozy retreat and the main entrance to the park.

“Universal Kids Resort embodies the spirit of igniting thrill that drives everything we create — designed to bring our youngest guests and families together through play, creativity, and beloved characters and stories,” said Molly Murphy, President of Universal Creative. “It’s a destination made for kids and, as a regional theme park, brings Universal’s signature storytelling to families close to home.”

Universal Kids Resort in Frisco, Texas is set to open in 2026, marking a new era of family-friendly fun where imagination meets adventure. From Shrek’s Swamp to Bikini Bottom, kids and parents alike will find something exciting at every turn.

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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Find the Perfect Universal Orlando Resort Hotel for Your Honeymoon

No matter what you’re looking for, each Universal Orlando Resort hotel offers its own unique vibe, perks, and price point—making it easy to find the perfect match for your Universal Orlando Resort honeymoon. Choosing the right spot sets the tone for your romantic getaway, so it’s worth finding the resort that best fits your style as a couple.

If you’re focused on keeping your trip budget-friendly, there are plenty of options! Universal Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites and Universal Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites deliver beachy, laid-back vibes without breaking the bank.

Craving something with a retro twist? Universal Cabana Bay Beach Resort takes you back to the colorful charm of the 1950s, complete with vintage décor and fun mid-century style.

And of course, what better time to indulge in a bit of luxury than on your honeymoon? Loews Sapphire Falls Resort offers stunning, upscale options like the Sapphire Suite and Presidential Suite, perfect for relaxing island vibes. For a truly romantic escape, Loews Portofino Bay Hotel transports guests straight to the Italian Riviera, with elegant rooms that feel worlds away. One of the best perks? Universal Express Unlimited passes are included with every Portofino Bay stay, making it even easier to enjoy the parks together.

Dine at the Most Romantic Restaurants at Universal Orlando Resort

You may be surprised to discover just how many incredible date-night options await throughout Universal Orlando Resort that are perfect for couples celebrating their honeymoon.

At Epic Universe, Atlantic in Celestial Park delivers an elevated theme park dining experience with fresh seafood, perfectly cooked steak, and expertly crafted cocktails. It’s an ideal location for couples looking to enjoy a romantic break during their Epic Universe day. Over at Universal Islands of Adventure, Mythos offers a charming Mediterranean-inspired setting for a midday or evening meal with breathtaking lagoon views.

At Universal CityWalk, you’ll find a wide selection of restaurants perfect for a cozy night out. Bigfire, one of CityWalk’s newest dining spots, prepares its dishes over an open flame, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for couples. For a timeless romantic favorite, Vivo Italian Kitchen serves up handmade pastas and authentic Italian flavors that are sure to impress.

Of course, some of the best dining experiences can be found at Universal Orlando Resort hotels themselves. Bice Ristorante at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel offers a truly romantic Italian ambiance reminiscent of old-world charm. Strong Water Tavern at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort provides island-inspired flavors and a Caribbean coastal feel. For panoramic skyline views, head to Bar 17 Bistro at Universal Aventura Hotel or Bar Helios at the luxurious Universal Helios Grand Hotel, where you can toast to your new adventure together.

Whenever possible, we suggest making dining reservations in advance to ensure you have the perfect table for two.

Go All Out in the Theme Parks

When it’s time to hit the parks, your Universal Orlando Resort honeymoon is the perfect excuse to go all out! Before starting your day, stop by Guest Services to pick up complimentary “I’m Celebrating” buttons so everyone knows you’re newlyweds. Want to take it a step further? Coordinating or matching outfits can make for fun, photo-ready park days — and help capture those honeymoon vibes in style!

Speaking of which, with so many unforgettable moments ahead, you’ll want to be sure that you’ve captured them all. The My Universal Photos service ensures that every ride reaction and romantic snapshot is preserved.

And let’s be honest — no newlywed couple wants to spend their honeymoon waiting in long lines. Universal Express Passes can help cut wait times, giving you more time to enjoy rides, shows, and each other. If your hotel stay doesn’t already include them, the upgrade is well worth it for such a special occasion.

Want to take your experience to the next level? Treat yourselves to a Universal VIP Experience. This guided tour gives you front-of-line access, behind-the-scenes insights, and personalized park planning. It’s the ultimate way to celebrate your new life together.

Pro tip: To make your honeymoon even more seamless, book your hotel, theme park tickets, Express Passes, and a VIP Experience through Orlando Informer here!

Relax and Recharge on Your Universal Orlando Resort Honeymoon

With so much to see and do at Universal Orlando Resort, it’s easy to feel the pressure to keep moving so you can experience it all. But remember, your Universal Orlando Resort honeymoon isn’t just about thrills and adventure. It’s also about slowing down, savoring the moment, and truly enjoying time together.

Don’t be afraid to sleep in and order breakfast in bed one morning… or every morning! Take a day to simply unwind by the pool with a refreshing cocktail or mocktail in hand. Every Universal Orlando Resort hotel features at least one beautiful pool with an accompanying pool bar, so you can’t go wrong no matter where you stay.

Every moment of your Universal honeymoon will be special, not just because of the rides, meals, or big adventures, but also the quiet, relaxing moments you share together. Sometimes, it’s those peaceful pauses that make the most lasting memories.

Have Fun and Make Lifelong Memories Together

This might sound like the most obvious advice for your vacation, but it’s also the easiest to forget — remember to have fun! You’re creating once-in-a-lifetime experiences with your spouse, and that’s what truly matters most.

Don’t stress if plans change. Some of the best moments happen when you leave room for spontaneity, whether it’s jumping into a last-minute ride, discovering a hidden gem in CityWalk, or simply laughing together over butterbeer. You only get one honeymoon, so make sure you let yourself relax, explore, and enjoy every second!

Ready to book your ultimate Universal Orlando Resort honeymoon? Make it happen with the help of Orlando Informer here.

Share your own 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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After dark, the pathways glow, the rides feel faster, and the whole atmosphere shifts—sometimes into chilling thrills, other times into sparkling holiday cheer. And if you look beyond their Howl-O-Scream and Christmas Celebration events, you’ll find even more nighttime magic waiting throughout the year.

Fall Nights at SeaWorld Orlando: Howl-O-Scream Energy

When autumn rolls in, SeaWorld Orlando trades in its playful daytime vibe for something much darker. Howl-O-Scream takes over with haunted houses, terrifying scare zones, and roaming monsters waiting around every corner. Add in sinister shows, themed cocktails, and DJs spinning in the dark, and the park feels like it’s throwing one big nighttime block party… with a side of terror.

But here’s the kicker: coasters at night take the experience up a notch. Imagine diving through the pitch-black skies on Mako, or feeling the wind rush across your face as Pipeline: The Surf Coaster twists and drops in the shadows. Darkness makes every scream sharper and every hill a little more unpredictable.

SeaWorld Orlando Winter Nights: Christmas Celebration Magic

Once the monsters retreat, the park doesn’t slow down—it glows up. SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration turns the night into a holiday wonderland. Thousands of twinkling lights reflect off the lagoon, the famous Sea of Trees dances to holiday music, and festive shows bring plenty of cheer.

Warm up with hot cocoa or a festive treat, catch fireworks on select nights under the stars, and enjoy a completely different side of the park. Where Howl-O-Scream pulses with adrenaline, this Christmas Celebration brings cozy nostalgia and family-friendly fun.

SeaWorld Orlando Coasters After Dark: A Whole New Ride

Outside the seasonal events, SeaWorld’s coaster lineup shines at night—literally.

• Mako feels sleeker as you race above the glowing skyline.
• Pipeline: The Surf Coaster brings an extra thrill when you can’t see every twist coming.
• Ice Breaker launches you into the unknown with added suspense.

If you think you know these coasters from daytime rides, you haven’t really experienced them until you’ve braved them after sundown.

Looking Ahead: Events All Year Long

SeaWorld doesn’t save all the fun for fall and winter. Throughout the year, the park keeps the nighttime energy alive:

• Seven Seas Food Festival (spring): A foodie favorite with global flavors, craft drinks, and weekly concerts that turn nights into mini-festivals.
• Electric Ocean (summer): A high-energy nighttime celebration featuring fireworks, drone shows, glowing dance parties, and electrifying entertainment across the park.

No matter the season, SeaWorld often has something happening after dark.

Nights at SeaWorld Orlando are Unforgettable

SeaWorld after dark isn’t just about seeing the park in a different light—it’s about feeling it in a different way. The energy shifts. The rides transform. The events layer on either heart-pounding scares, holiday sparkle, or festival vibes.

Stay after sunset and you’ll see that SeaWorld at night is a whole new experience. Whether you come for the frights, the lights, or the late-night thrills, it’s always worth keeping the party going long after the sun sets.

Before you go, make sure to:

• Check the day’s schedule (some shows and offerings run only on select dates/times).
• Download the SeaWorld Orlando app to keep showtimes, maps, and mobile ordering at your fingertips.
• Secure your admission and save by grabbing discounted tickets through Orlando Informer.

Nighttime at SeaWorld is an adventure—thrilling coasters, shimmering lights, and a whole new vibe you can only feel after dark.

Excited to check out SeaWorld Orlando this Fall? Connect with others on our SeaWorld Community on Facebook. 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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Below, we share our top five reasons to stay at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort and why this hotel may be the perfect home base for your Orlando adventure.

1. Relax and Recharge

As soon as you walk into this hotel, you’re instantly transported to an island oasis. The bright, airy lobby sets the stage for a relaxing, worry-free vacation, while the resort’s signature scent and tropical details complete the experience. From the lush surroundings to the calming atmosphere, every corner of Sapphire Falls delivers the ultimate island getaway feel.

2. Room Options at Sapphire Falls

Loews Sapphire Falls Resort offers a wide variety of room types designed to make every guest feel at home. Standard options include spacious two-queen and king bedrooms, perfect for couples or small families. 

For those looking for more space, the resort also features multiple suite categories to fit every need. Younger guests will love the Sapphire Falls Kids’ Suite, complete with a separate room and two twin beds just for them. Traveling with a larger group? Enjoy the benefits of upgraded accommodations like hospitality suites or the luxurious presidential suite.

No matter your group size or style, one of the key benefits of Sapphire Falls is the flexibility of accommodations, ensuring every stay feels personalized and comfortable.

3. Dining Benefits at Sapphire Falls

One thing you’ll never do at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort is go hungry. This Universal Orlando Resort hotel is home to some of the best food and drink options on property.

At Amatista Cookhouse, guests can enjoy casual, Caribbean-inspired dishes served for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a bright, inviting atmosphere. 

For a more intimate setting, Strong Water Tavern offers a full-service experience with bold flavors, an extensive rum selection, and handcrafted cocktails—perfect for a date night or relaxing evening. 

New Dutch Trading Co. provides a convenient grab-and-go option with quick bites, pastries, coffee, and snacks—ideal for busy mornings on the way to the parks. 

And if you prefer to stay in, 24-hour room service ensures late-night bites or breakfast in bed are just a call away.

4. Easy Transportation

Loews Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando Resort is located along the resort’s scenic waterway, offering both stunning views and unbeatable convenience. Guests can take advantage of the complimentary water taxi service to Universal CityWalk, Universal Studios Florida, and Islands of Adventure.

Prefer to stretch your legs? A lush, landscaped walking path connects the resort to CityWalk and Volcano Bay. Guests also have the option of shuttle buses, making it easy to reach every Universal Orlando Resort attraction.

With so many convenient transportation choices, getting around the resort is stress-free and enjoyable.

5. Poolside Perks at Sapphire Falls Resort

After an exciting day in the parks, the best way to unwind is by the expansive, crystal-clear pool at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort—one of our favorite relaxation spots at Universal Orlando Resort. Guests can soak sore muscles in the large hot tub, while kids enjoy the splash play area and twisting water slide. For added convenience, the poolside Drhum Club Kantine serves up light entrées, snacks, and refreshing drinks, making it easy to spend an entire afternoon within this retreat.

From its tropical theming and flexible room options to top-notch dining, a stunning resort-style pool, and unbeatable transportation, Loews Sapphire Falls Resort offers the perfect balance of relaxation and convenience. With so many benefits, it’s easy to see why Sapphire Falls is a favorite among families, couples, and groups visiting Orlando.

Ready to plan your stay? Book your room at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort through Orlando Informer 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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Before you dive in, be sure to check the daily park schedule so you don’t miss a moment of the action. And if you want to save before you even step through the gates, grab discounted SeaWorld Orlando tickets here.

Morning at SeaWorld Orlando: Dolphins, Pumpkins, and Sea Lions (oh my!)

Start your day with a splash! Kick things off at the Dolphin Nursery keeper talk and say good morning to some of the ocean’s most charming babies. Stick around for Dolphin Adventures at Dolphin Stadium—it’s fast, fun, and guaranteed to make you wish you had a tail.

Later in the morning, wander over to the Pumpkin Garden for storytime. This whimsical, ocean-themed nook is part of Halloween Spooktacular on select weekend dates. Storytellers spin tales (look for Penelope the Pumpkin Queen!) that are more sweet than scary. Afterward, head to Sea Lions: Flippers, Facts & Fun for comedy-meets-education with whiskered scene-stealers.

Midday: Sesame Street Surprises & Sweet Treats

Around noon, the Sesame Street Halloween Parade takes over Sesame Street Land with colorful floats, upbeat tunes, and some of your favorites dressed in costume. Nearby, the Scarecrow Dance Party keeps the energy high with music and movement perfect for little ones.

Feeling snacky? SeaWorld’s got you covered! Start with the always-delicious Mama’s Pretzel Kitchen for a classic, twisty bite. If you’re visiting on a Spooktacular weekend, stop by the Sesame Street Land Pavilion for cookie decorating—a fun, hands-on break—then follow the trick-or-treat trail across the park to satisfy every sweet tooth. Keep in mind there’s an additional cost for cookie decorating, and you’ll need a SeaWorld Orlando reusable trick-or-treat bag for these activities—but together, they make for a sweet and memorable part of your day.

Afternoon at SeaWorld: Animal Chats and Chill Time

There’s typically another opportunity in the afternoon to catch the Sea Lion presentation if you missed the morning one, or head to the Manatee Rescue talk for an aww-inspiring look at a manatee calf. Later, stop by Pacific Point Preserve to see a whole crew of sea lions. You can even buy food to feed them—just be prepared for superstar begging.

Don’t forget: SeaWorld isn’t just about its presentations! It’s also home to some of Orlando’s best roller coasters—from the steep drops of Ice Breaker to the soaring heights of Mako and the winding twists of Pipeline: The Surf Coaster. Even if you’re here for pumpkins and parades, it’s worth sneaking in a thrill ride or two.

This is also the perfect time to slow down. Grab a cool drink and enjoy the sights. Want a breezy break? Rent a paddle boat and take it for a ride around the lagoon. Bringing littles? Don’t miss the Harvest Maze and Meet-a-Mermaid photo ops on Spooktacular weekends.

And if you love shopping, SeaWorld Orlando has plenty of stores filled with unique goodies!

Quick Note: Halloween Cookie Decorating, Scarecrow Dance Party, Trick-or-Treating, Pumpkin Garden & Storytime, Meet-a-Mermaid, and the Harvest Maze are part of Halloween Spooktacular, available select dates between August 30–November 2.

Evening: From Cute to Creepy

As the sun goes down, SeaWorld transforms for its separately ticketed nighttime event, Howl-O-Scream. The evening kicks off with Scorchline: Deadly Rhythm, a high-energy percussion show that erupts on the outdoor stage with fiery drums, blazing beats, and absolutely zero chill. Just steps away, the Scorchline Bar—a limited-time pop-up—keeps the vibe alive with specialty cocktails crafted for the season.

Craving more? Howl-O-Scream spreads haunted bites and themed sips across the park—artisan flatbreads at Flames Pizza, frosty concoctions at Tormented, interstellar cocktails at Space Gate 3, Asian-inspired eats at Unfortunate, over-the-top burgers at Jack the Ripper, street-food scares at Mercado de los Muertos, and monstrous hot dogs at Roadkill.

Turn your night into a tasting tour with a Taste the Terror Lanyard—your pass for horror-themed bites and sips. Choose the option that fits your appetite:

• Standard Lanyard: 3 spirit beverages + 1 entrée for $45
• Premium Lanyard: 5 spirit beverages + 2 entrées for $75

Howl-O-Scream delivers way more than food—it’s packed with high-voltage entertainment for the fearless. Enjoy offerings like Hellzapoppin Presents: The Grave Danger Thrill Show at Carnevil Curiosities, a rock ’n’ roll circus sideshow of fire-eating and jaw-dropping stunts. Then slide into the Nautilus Theater for Monster Stomp, where horror collides with Broadway-style music and dance. Still riding the adrenaline? Head to Throttle at Lakeside Patio—an all-new motorsports-inspired spectacle featuring nightmare riders, roaring fire effects, and Havoc, this year’s event icon.

Food? Check. Shows? Check. Now it’s time for the screams. Celebrating its 5th anniversary, SeaWorld Orlando’s Howl-O-Scream ups the ante with five haunted houses and six scare zones guaranteed to terrify. Get the full rundown in our guide here.

Just remember—Howl-O-Scream is a separately ticketed event on select nights from September 5 to November 1, 2025. Separate admission is required, and you can grab your tickets here through Orlando Informer.

The Best Part? Mix & Match Your Fall 2025 SeaWorld Day

The magic of Fall 2025 at SeaWorld Orlando is that you don’t have to see everything. Linger at cookie decorating with the kids. Soak up the autumn atmosphere between rides. Or save your energy for late-night scares. Whatever your style, there’s no wrong way to do it.

So grab your pumpkin spice latte, lace up your comfy shoes, and dive into a day where dolphins, dance parties, and haunted beats all share the same stage.

Before you go, make sure to:

• Check the day’s schedule (some shows and offerings run only on select days/times).
• Download the SeaWorld Orlando app to keep showtimes, maps, and mobile ordering at your fingertips.
• Secure your admission and save by grabbing discounted tickets through Orlando Informer.

Fall 2025 at SeaWorld is full of surprises—plan a little, wander a lot, and let the day unfold with equal parts wonder and whimsy.

Excited to check out SeaWorld Orlando this Fall? Connect with others on our SeaWorld Community on Facebook. 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 The ULTIMATE Fall 2025 Touring Plan for SeaWorld Orlando appeared first on Orlando Informer.

Below are our top five reasons to stay at Universal Endless Summer Resort:

1. Best Value on Universal Property

Surfside and Dockside belong to Universal’s Value Inns and Suites category, which consistently offers the lowest nightly rates across all Universal Orlando Resort hotels. Nightly rates typically range from around $100 to $300, depending on the season. 

Even during peak times, Universal Endless Summer Resort stands out as one of the best budget-friendly ways to enjoy a Universal Orlando Resort vacation without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

2. Standard and Suite Room Options

One of the most significant benefits of staying at a Universal Endless Summer Resort hotel is the flexibility in room types. Guests can choose between standard rooms or spacious two-bedroom suites. The standard option offers a studio-style layout with two queen beds, while the suites are designed with families and groups in mind. Each suite features two separate sleeping areas—a central space with two queen beds and a private room with an additional queen bed—plus a kitchenette and a picnic-style dining table, perfect for groups or families up to six.

A key difference between Surfside Inn and Suites and Dockside Inn and Suites is their size. Dockside is the larger of the two, with more than 2,000 guest rooms, while Surfside has a cozier footprint with just 750 rooms. For some guests, Surfside’s smaller size can mean shorter wait times at check-in and for shuttle buses.

3. Close Proximity to Universal Orlando Resort Theme Parks

Nestled right in the middle of the action, these hotels put guests just minutes away from all the excitement of Universal Orlando Resort. Complimentary shuttle buses typically get you to the parks in 10 minutes or less, making it easy to maximize your time at Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, Epic Universe, or Volcano Bay.

Staying at Universal Endless Summer Resort provides some consistency with all travel time, no matter which park or attraction you are heading to. While other resorts may sit closer to Epic Universe or the main transportation hub at Universal CityWalk, Surfside and Dockside strike the perfect balance with quick, convenient access to everything on property.

4. Early Park Admission Benefit for Universal Endless Summer Resort Guests

With so much to see and do at Universal Orlando Resort, every extra minute in the parks counts. All Universal Orlando Resort hotel guests, including those staying at Universal Endless Summer Resort, receive Early Park Admission benefits, giving them access to select attractions before the gates open to the general public. It’s the perfect way to get a head start on popular rides with shorter wait times. Be sure to check our Snapshot page for the latest details on which parks are offering early park admission during your stay.

5. Ultimate Beach Vibes found at Universal Endless Summer Resort

After a full day of thrills at the parks, nothing feels better than kicking back and recharging—and Universal Endless Summer Resort is designed with relaxation in mind. Each room is decorated with a beachside vibe, making it feel like a coastal escape right in the heart of Orlando.

The pool areas enhance that laid-back atmosphere with palm trees and relaxing music. At Dockside, you’ll find two pools (one for each tower of rooms), while Surfside features a large, surfboard-shaped pool at the center of the resort. Both hotels also offer poolside bars serving refreshing cocktails that capture the perfect “endless summer” state of mind.

For families, couples, or friends, these resorts provide the ideal spot to relax, recharge, and make the most of your Universal Orlando Resort vacation. Unlock the benefits of staying at Universal Endless Summer Resort by booking your stay through Orlando Informer 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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From immersive environments and advanced special effects to a thrilling finale launch, SEAQuest: Legends of the Deep promises to push the boundaries of storytelling and technology. SeaWorld’s most recent attraction, Expedition Odyssey, transports guests to the Arctic with towering glaciers and wild animals brought vividly to life through state-of-the-art innovations. If SEAQuest follows in those footsteps, this new addition is set to become one of the most highly anticipated attractions in SeaWorld Orlando’s lineup.

With groundbreaking attractions like Expedition Odyssey and the upcoming SEAQuest: Legends of the Deep, there’s never been a better time to explore everything SeaWorld Orlando has to offer. Start planning your adventure today by purchasing admission through Orlando Informer here.

Discuss this exciting announcement with others on our SeaWorld Community on Facebook. 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 Crowd Calendar for November 2025

The start of November is usually one of the calmer times to explore Universal Orlando Resort, making it a great opportunity to enjoy shorter wait times and cooler weather. However, crowd levels take a big turn later in the month. Thanksgiving week draws in large numbers of visitors thanks to school breaks, time off work, and families eager to celebrate together in Central Florida.

Don’t let the holiday rush catch you off guard! Our FREE crowd calendar outlines what to expect each day, helping you plan smarter, arrive earlier, and navigate the parks like a pro. With the right strategy, you can still make the most of your Universal adventure—even during the busiest times of the year.

Events at Universal Orlando in November 2025

Holidays at Universal

The Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort begin Friday, November 21, 2025, and run through Sunday, January 4, 2026. Guests can experience:

• Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s at Universal Studios Florida.
• Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, complete with dazzling decorations and limited-time entertainment.
• Grinchmas in Seuss Landing at Islands of Adventure, where the Whos deck the halls with whimsical décor and the Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular retells the story of How the Grinch Stole Christmas—guaranteed to make your heart grow three sizes.

On top of the festive shows and decorations, you’ll also find seasonal treats, specialty drinks, and exclusive holiday merchandise throughout the resort.

Green & Red Coconut Club

Each holiday season, Universal CityWalk’s Red Coconut Club receives a limited-time makeover and becomes the Green & Red Coconut Club. This immersive, over-the-top holiday lounge offers seasonal touches, yuletide music, and specialty cocktails—no theme park ticket required.

The 2025 theme has not yet been announced at the time of publication, but previous years have featured immersive holiday environments full of nostalgic charm. Keep an eye on our Snapshot page for the official reveal, and in the meantime, explore last year’s Green & Red Coconut Club to get a feel for what’s in store.

Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving falls on Thursday, November 27, 2025. While the parks don’t host a large-scale celebration, several of Universal Orlando Resort’s hotels offer special Thanksgiving dinners to make guests feel at home for the holiday.

Be sure to check our Thanksgiving guide closer to that day for detailed menus and offerings.

Temporary Ride Closures & Refurbishments at Universal Orlando Resort in November 2025

At Islands of Adventure, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey will be closed for refurbishment from November 10 through November 20, 2025.

Theme park schedules can change quickly, so we’ll keep our Snapshot page updated with the latest details on ride closures, refurbishments, and anything else that might impact your visit this month (and beyond).

Keep in mind that weather and other factors can cause last-minute closures. To stay ahead of the game, check the Universal Orlando Resort app for the most up-to-date ride info during your visit. Trust us—being in the know makes your day smoother (and way more fun)!

Universal Orlando Resort Weather in November 2025

November offers a welcome break from Florida’s intense summer heat and humidity. While you won’t find the chilly fall weather of other parts of the country, the climate this month is generally comfortable and pleasant—perfect for long days in the parks.

What to Pack

• Supportive Footwear: No matter the season, comfortable shoes are a must. Expect to walk 20,000+ steps in a day, so choose sneakers or well-cushioned shoes over trendy footwear. (Trust us—we’ve learned this lesson the hard way!)
• Rain Gear: November isn’t as rainy as summer, but Florida weather can be unpredictable. Pack a poncho or compact umbrella so you’re ready for a passing shower without skipping a beat.
• Layered Clothing: Evenings can feel cooler, so bring along a light jacket or sweatshirt. Pro tip: stash it in a Universal locker at the start of your day for easy access later, while saving valuable backpack space.

For a deeper dive into Orlando’s seasonal weather, check out our month-by-month weather guide, where you’ll find average highs, lows, rainfall patterns, and tips for every time of year.

Visiting Universal Orlando Resort in November 2025 means enjoying comfortable weather, the kickoff of holiday festivities, and plenty of opportunities to experience the parks with less stress. Whether you’re here for the magic of the season, thrilling rides, or limited-time food and entertainment, November offers the perfect mix of fun and festivity!

And don’t forget: if you haven’t already, snag discounted theme park admission through Orlando Informer and save on your November 2025 Universal Orlando Resort vacation!

Learn tips and tricks from 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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Before you dig in, make sure you’ve secured your Halloween Horror Nights ticket. You can learn more about discounted admission through Orlando Informer here.

Vegetarian Halloween Horror Nights Dishes

Twisted Tater Chips – $9.99
Twisted Tater Chips, Production Central
A Halloween Horror Nights classic returns with a twist! In past years, these spiralized potatoes came on a stick. For 2025, they’ve been reimagined into a crispy chip form while keeping the same delicious flavor. Choose your topping: spicy cheddar or ranch & vinegar seasoning.

Abracadabra Sunflower Glasses – $7.99
Terrifier Booth, Gramercy Park
Equal parts creepy and cute, these sunflower sugar cookies are styled after Art’s iconic shades in Terrifier 2. Finished with chocolate and a splatter of “blood,” they’re as Instagrammable as they are tasty.

Death by Cheese Stick – $10.99
Cursed Carnival, Gramercy Park
This monstrous mozzarella stick is hand-breaded, fried to perfection, and delivers a cheese pull worthy of its name. Served with a side of spicy marinara, it’s hearty enough to fuel you through a full night of scares.

Ramblin’ Rabbit Fried Carrot Cake – $8.99
The Horrors of The Wyatt Sicks Booth, Gramercy Park
This dessert is a flavor smackdown: crispy fried carrot cake drizzled with sweet white icing, topped with a puff of torn Ramblin’ Rabbit cotton candy.

Cupcake – $12.99
Five Nights at Freddy’s Dining, New York
Inspired by Chica’s mechanical companion, this cupcake hides no deadly surprises! It’s built with layers of rich chocolate cake, raspberry filling, cannoli cream, and topped with mascarpone buttercream frosting.

Pan con Tomate – $7.99
El Artista: A Spanish Haunting Booth, Hollywood
Simple, savory, and satisfying—this bite layers grilled garlic bread with tomato pulp and a sprinkle of Manchego cheese for a crunchy, flavorful snack.

Artist’s Palette – $7.99
El Artista: A Spanish Haunting Booth, Hollywood
A sweet treat inspired by Sergio Navarro, the tortured artist of this year’s event. This “palette” features crispy sugar-dusted churros served with “paints” of dulce de leche, raspberry jam, and Bavarian cream for dipping.

Elotes – $8.49
Jason Universe, San Francisco
Channel those campfire vibes with this fire-grilled corn on the cob. Choose between toppings of cotija cheese with Tajín seasoning or a bold layer of Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. A killer snack—minus the hockey mask.

Vegan HHN Options

Vegan Pizza Fries – $11.99
Dreamworks Imagination Cafe, Hollywood
No trip to Halloween Horror Nights is complete without Pizza Fries—and now everyone can join in on the tradition! This vegan-friendly version layers crispy French fries with marinara sauce, melty vegan cheese, and plant-based pepperoni and sausage crumbles.

African Lentil Coffin – $8.99
Avenue Bites, Gramercy Park
A longtime fan-favorite returns from the grave! The African Lentil Coffin is filled with savory African-spiced lentils and a crispy potato sambusa, creating a flavorful vegan dish that has become a Halloween Horror Nights staple.

Fritos Vegan Walking Taco – $14.99
The Cat Lady of Crooked Lane Booth,  Springfield: Home of the Simpsons
This handheld meal is a flavor explosion in a bag! Fritos corn chips are loaded with zesty vegan chorizo crumbles, salsa verde, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Bold, crunchy, and deliciously satisfying—it’s a plant-based party in every bite.

We hope this guide helps you discover the best vegetarian and vegan food available at Halloween Horror Nights 2025! From sweet treats to savory classics, there are plenty of delicious options to enjoy throughout the event. For the full list of every dish and drink available, be sure to check out our complete Halloween Horror Nights Food Guide.

Halloween Horror Nights runs on select nights from August 29 through November 2. Find out everything you need to know about tickets here. 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 Vegan & Vegetarian Food at Halloween Horror Nights 2025 appeared first on Orlando Informer.

Although BzzzCon (sometimes referred to as “BuzzCon”) made its debut at HHN 31 in 2022, the lore hints at a deeper history—suggesting their reach stretches much further than we once imagined. But we’re getting ahead of ourselves. For now, let’s rewind to the Roaring Twenties, where one of BzzzCon’s earliest incidents takes center stage in this year’s scare zone, Mutations: Toxic Twenties.

And if you’re ready to experience this twisted history for yourself this year, don’t forget—you can purchase discounted Halloween Horror Nights admission directly through Orlando Informer. Learn more here.

BzzzCon Origins in HHN’s Mutations: Toxic Twenties

Digging into the lore, BzzzCon’s roots trace back as far as late 1928. While they kept most of their dastardly doings hushed, the company had a notable presence in New York during the early days of the Golden Age and Prohibition. It was there that “Diamond” Joe Malone and his group of mobsters attempted a bank heist gone wrong. On the run from authorities, their escape erupted into a high-speed chase through the city streets.

Unfortunately, it ended with Malone’s crew crashing into a BzzzCon truck that was carrying toxic cargo. The impact sent the hazardous material everywhere, including a Flapper party being held at a local speakeasy. Attendees attempted to flee to the streets, but it was too late, as the toxins had already begun mutating their DNA. Upon escape, they went from harmless partygoers to midnight monsters. 

Rumors had long circulated that BzzzCon engaged in shady practices, with whispers of a toxic rat poison that mutated rather than exterminated the vermin it targeted. Accidental as it was, the news of the mobsters crashing into a company vehicle should have been enough to make BzzzCon halt its questionable operations. However, the corporation would find itself at the center of another disaster nearly three decades later.

Expanding Lore in Bugs: Eaten Alive

In 1952, BzzzCon sought a rebranding to separate itself from the Malone incident. The company shifted its focus to pesticides and related home appliances, even introducing a new mascot, B-Cide the bee. They had developed Extermin-Air, a pesticide designed to flow through household ventilation systems, eliminating pests while also cooling your home. The concept was well-received, with investors throwing in to fund BzzzCon’s latest endeavour. This prompted them to debut it at the 1952 World Tech Fair. 

Representatives and staff arrived months in advance to set up shop in Pavilion 31. Installing concrete walls that held all of BzzzCon’s latest equipment, the space was designed to impress expo attendees as a glimpse into the “home of the future.” However, when the time came for the much-anticipated Extermin-Air showcase, the invention malfunctioned, filling the tent with a green, toxic fog. Instead of eliminating the bugs, it caused them to multiply, then mutate to enormous proportions, while also sending them into a frenzy.

As attendees and staff scrambled to escape, they were met with swarms of nightmarish insects. Armies of ants overran the home, massive roaches claimed the model kitchen, and some creatures even twisted into upright monstrosities. Many believed the most terrifying sight was the grotesque spider-beast that dominated the pavilion—but worse still were the victims themselves, transformed into living hives, their bodies crawling with thousands of mutant insect eggs.

Other BzzzCon Easter Eggs and Appearances at HHN

Canonically, it seems BzzzCon is just getting started after the stories woven in Mutations: Toxic Twenties and Bugs: Eaten Alive. Outside of the main lore, BzzzCon Easter eggs appeared in two of the fictional B-movies within 2024’s Slaughter Sinema 2 house: Blood and Chum, where the company is suspected of mutating and driving a killer shark into a frenzy, and Night of the Undead Clowns, where BzzzCon’s overflowing landfills gave rise to zombie clowns attacking humanity. Universal is certainly no stranger to using Slaughter Sinema as a springboard for future concepts—but that’s not where things get interesting.

This year, BzzzCon made its presence known not in one but in two corners of HHN. The obvious connection lies within Mutations: Toxic Twenties—but the more subtle reference appears in Dolls: Let’s Play Dead. Keen-eyed house-goers may notice that BzzzCon batteries are found powering a portion of Lyla’s dollhouse of torture. Are Lyla and her toys part of yet another twisted BzzzCon experiment? Is that how her victims were reduced to toy size? Perhaps it’s nothing more than a clever Easter egg. For now, the answer remains a mystery—but it certainly sparks curiosity about how this sinister company connects to the house, and what role it might play in HHN’s future..

Learn more about Halloween Horror Nights in our insider’s guide, then 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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To help you decide if it’s right for your visit, let’s break down the top benefits that make a Universal VIP Experience one of the best ways to explore Universal Orlando Resort.

Book your Universal VIP Tour through Orlando Informer here and make your park day truly unforgettable.

Perks of a Universal VIP Experience

Skip the Lines All Day with a Universal VIP Experience

One of the biggest perks of booking a Universal VIP Experience is VIP priority access to select attractions. With a Universal VIP Tour, you’ll skip the regular lines and head straight to the thrills, making the most of your visit to Universal Orlando Resort. This advantage means less waiting and more riding, so that you can experience more attractions in less time.

While skipping the queue does mean you might bypass parts of the themed storyline, your expert guide has you covered. They’ll share the attraction’s backstory and insider details so you don’t miss any of the immersive experience.

Even after your VIP Tour concludes, you’ll receive one-time Universal Express Pass access to keep enjoying shorter wait times for the rest of your day.

Personalized Itinerary with Expert Guides

Your experience depends on which type of Universal VIP Tour you choose.

• Non-Private VIP Tour (1-Day, 1-Park or 1-Day, 2-Park): You’ll join other guests, and your guide will create a schedule that works best for the group.
• Private Universal VIP Experience: You’ll enjoy a fully customized itinerary, designed around your preferences.

No matter which option you select, your tour guide will not only escort you past the lines but also share insider knowledge, hidden details, and helpful tips to make your day even more memorable.

Behind-the-Scenes Access

A Universal VIP Experience sometimes includes moving through backstage areas, giving you a glimpse into how a world-class theme park operates. While photography is not allowed, this behind-the-scenes peek adds an exclusive layer to your visit—you never know what surprises you might encounter!

Reserved Seating at Top Shows

Guests enjoying a Private VIP Tour receive reserved seating at select shows, giving you the best views without the hassle of arriving early to claim a spot.

Delicious Meals Included

Complimentary dining is another benefit of upgrading to a VIP Experience.

• 2-Park 1-Day Universal VIP Tour: Guests receive breakfast at Cafe La Bamba and lunch at a Quick-Service or Full-Service restaurant selected by the VIP Operations Team.
• Private Universal VIP Experience: Includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner. At Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, enjoy breakfast at Cafe La Bamba, lunch at a participating restaurant, and dinner at a Universal-owned Full-Service location. At Epic Universe, Private VIP Tour guests receive breakfast in the VIP Lounge, followed by lunch and dinner at participating dining venues.

Valet Parking & Express Pass Access After the Tour

Your Universal VIP Experience doesn’t end when the tour does. You’ll still receive one-time Universal Express access at participating attractions, giving you more time for fun even after the tour.

Additionally, VIP guests enjoy complimentary valet parking for one vehicle — a major convenience after a full day in the parks.

Perfect for Special Occasions or First-Time Visitors

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, honeymoon, or milestone, a Universal VIP Tour is the ultimate way to treat yourself. It’s also ideal for first-time visitors who want to see it all without the stress of planning. With a knowledgeable guide, exclusive perks, and unforgettable experiences, a Universal VIP Tour transforms a regular theme park day into something extraordinary.

Is a Universal VIP Tour Right for You?

From priority access at top attractions to a personalized itinerary with an expert guide, a Universal VIP Experience offers far more than just exclusive perks—it provides comfort, peace of mind, and a stress-free way to enjoy the parks. Whether you’re celebrating something special or simply want to maximize your time, a Universal VIP Tour is one of the best ways to see Universal Orlando Resort.

Book your Universal VIP Experience through Orlando Informer here to secure your spot before your preferred date fills up!

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 Why Book a Universal VIP Experience? What You’ll Get with a VIP Tour appeared first on Orlando Informer.

This year’s lineup is absolutely stacked and easily one of the most anticipated in HHN history. Step into the twisted universe of The Wyatt Sicks, survive the post-apocalyptic Wasteland of Fallout, and face the mechanical nightmares of Five Nights at Freddy’s. Then, come face-to-face with Jason Voorhees and prepare for chaos with Art the Clown in the grotesque world of Terrifier.

All that is just the beginning — the event also features a slate of original concepts, from a haunted dollhouse and a demon-infested Old West to a harrowing descent into the underworld, and more.

With all this event has to offer, we ranked every house, scare zone, and show to help you navigate it all. Our rankings come from a mix of feedback from the online community and our team here at Orlando Informer. Both groups bring the same elements to the grading scale: an understanding of Horror Nights in years past, an appreciation of the source material, and an unrivaled enthusiasm for Halloween.

Haunted Houses at Halloween Horror Nights 2025

10. Grave of Flesh

It’s your funeral, so dress your best! In Grave of Flesh, you’re not just attending a burial; you’re being pulled into the underworld to face what lies beyond the grave.

The set design is easily one of this house’s biggest strengths. Early on, you glance upward and see your own tombstone, as though you’re staring at it from six feet below. One scene pays visual homage to M.C. Escher’s “Relativity”, with twisted staircases defying logic and space. The entire layout feels disorienting, like you’re being pulled deeper into a surreal nightmare. All the while, mole-like creatures claw their way out of the darkness, reaching for you and trying to drag you even further below.

We especially loved the opening sequence as it set the tone perfectly, immediately immersing you in the sensation of being buried alive. However, some of the scares began to feel repetitive as the house progressed, and it occasionally struggled to maintain its momentum.

While it may not have landed at the top of our list, Grave of Flesh was still a fun and creative original concept that offered a unique take on the afterlife.

Read the announcement

9. Fallout

Fallout comes with a massive built-in fanbase, thanks to its long-running video game series and the hit Amazon Prime show (with Season Two premiering December 17). That said, the pressure was on for Universal to deliver, and this house doesn’t hold back. 

This maze follows Lucy, a Vault-Dweller from Vault 33, who is forced out of the safety of her secured home and into the harsh Wasteland — a world left desolate by nuclear fallout (hence the name of the franchise). The journey begins on her wedding day, as a brutal massacre unfolds inside Vault 33. From there, you’re thrust into the unforgiving surface world, a landscape crawling with mutants, raiders, and dangers at every turn.

The set design here is a standout, transporting you into post-apocalyptic Los Angeles with impressive accuracy. Locations like the Super Duper Mart are recreated in stunning detail, making it feel like you’ve stepped straight into the Amazon series itself. Along the way, you encounter familiar faces, including The Ghoul and Maximus, adding another layer of authenticity that fans of the show will instantly recognize. 

And remember that Season Two mention? Keep your eyes open — there are subtle teases and nods to the upcoming season, offering something extra for die-hard viewers.

It’s clear that this house was crafted with respect for the source material, staying true to the tone, style, and world of Fallout while layering in HHN’s signature scares. While it earns points for its faithful adaptation, it doesn’t quite deliver on pure scare factor, which is why it lands at 9th place in our overall rankings.

Read the announcement

8. The Horrors of The Wyatt Sicks

In 2019, Bray Wyatt expressed his hope that his twisted world might one day come to life at Halloween Horror Nights. Though the beloved WWE Superstar tragically passed in 2023, his legacy endures — not just through the haunting presence of The Wyatt Sicks, but also now within the very fabric of HHN history.

The Horrors of The Wyatt Sicks are made up of five personas inspired by the puppets from Bray Wyatt’s infamous Firefly Fun House TV segments. In this house, we encounter each of them as they haunt and taunt guests throughout their journey.

The house begins on the stage of Monday Night Raw, a dream-come-true for wrestling fans, made possible by the partnership between WWE and Universal Orlando Resort. From there, you’re pulled into a tunnel of flickering televisions, descending deeper into Wyatt’s world, including a tour through the Wyatt Family Compound and a detailed recreation of the Firefly Fun House set.

A recurring and powerful symbol throughout the experience is Bray Wyatt’s lantern, once used to lead him to the ring — now guiding us through the darkness of The Horrors of The Wyatt Sicks. And perhaps the most chilling moment of all comes when The Fiend, Bray’s most iconic alter ego, follows you closely behind, whispering his signature invitation: “Let me in.”

It’s a house steeped in heart and horror, serving as both a terrifying experience and a touching homage to one of wrestling’s most visionary and unforgettable minds. You can feel the care and passion poured into every detail, a clear reflection of the respect the creative team holds for both Bray Wyatt’s legacy and his devoted WWE following.

Read the announcement

7. Hatchet and Chains: Demon Bounty Hunters

This house is rooted in Halloween Horror Nights lore that stretches back years before 2025. Slaughter Sinema, a 2018 fan-favorite, brought cult B-movies to life, featuring everything from sacrificial sororities and werewolf bikers to murderous barbers. Its success sparked a wave of follow-ups, inspiring attractions like the 2019 house Yeti: Terror of the Yukon.

That legacy continued with Slaughter Sinema 2 in 2024, which introduced an entirely new lineup of flicks (and topped our rankings last year). Among those concepts was Hatchet and Chains: Demon Bounty Hunters, and in 2025, it finally gets the full haunted house treatment it deserves.

So now that you’re caught up, let’s dive into what we thought of the main feature.

Hatchet, himself a demon, and Chains, a bounty hunter, join forces after an old woman from a small cowtown grows furious about a new train station being built. Naturally, she does what any reasonable citizen would do: summon a horde of lava demons from the local Hell’s Well (visible just outside the house façade). The demons physically possess their victims in three gruesome forms: demon, flesh, and “hodgepodge.” Victims have skin peeling away, flesh dangling, and in some cases, are literally stitched together with metal pieces.

Your journey winds through the town depot, fellowship hall, the Horse-Toothed Saloon, the undertaker’s parlor, and the cemetery. There are clever nods along the way, like windows peering into future locations within the house, and it’s all decorated with trails of blood that coat the floors, walls, and just about everything else.

While Hatchet and Chains: Demon Bounty Hunters is thematically rich and visually striking, it’s admittedly light on scares. We can’t say that we have lost sleep over lava demons under the bed, but the concept was a blast, and the execution made for a fun, well-designed addition to the lineup.

Read the announcement

6. Gálkn: Monsters of the North

This original house concept transports you to a remote northern village, where a long-buried evil has returned. A wicked being rises from the dead, unleashing a horde of monstrous creatures that descend on the village in a wave of frost, fury, and blood. As the land freezes over and terror spreads, your only hope is to escape the belly of the beast or become another soul lost to legend.

This house felt like a blend of 2023’s Blood Moon: Dark Offerings, with its village horror, and 2019’s Yeti: Terror of the Yukon, thanks to its snow-covered wilderness setting. You journey through a series of intense scenes as the monsters overtake this community, with each space layering dread and detail.

One of the standout features here is the use of puppetry, which adds a dynamic layer to the scares. Instead of relying solely on traditional scareactor moments, the house mixes in puppet creatures, giving the maze a dynamic rhythm that keeps you guessing.

The setting is chilling, the energy intense, and the frights delivered with variety, making Gálkn a house that truly feels like a northern nightmare come to life and earns a solid spot as #6 in our ranking.

Read the announcement

5. Dolls: Let’s Play Dead

In this house, you’re shrunk down to doll size and become the unwilling plaything of a twisted little girl named Lyla — think Sid from Toy Story, but far, far darker.

The oversized props sell the illusion brilliantly: you’re no taller than a crayon or AA battery, and electrical sockets tower overhead. Adding to the interactivity, this house incorporates guest-activated triggers (G.A.T.s) that you can press throughout, similar to last year’s Major Sweets Candy Factory, letting you influence some of the scares firsthand.

The vibe here screams “Weird Barbie” meets twisted toybox terror. Dolls are shaved, melted, dismembered, and warped into grotesque creations that reflect Lyla’s imagination. Navigate through a dollhouse, squeeze through a kids’ toy oven, and even scramble beneath her bed in a desperate attempt to avoid becoming just another broken toy in her collection. 

With constantly changing scenes, clever scale tricks, and an overall creepy feel, this house landed higher on our list. There’s something especially unsettling (and oddly relatable) about watching childhood playtime turn so dark. Even if we didn’t play with our toys this way… Lyla definitely did.

Read the announcement

4. Five Nights at Freddy’s

Halloween Horror Nights fans have been begging for a Five Nights at Freddy’s house (or FNAF for short) for years, and in 2025, Universal Orlando Resort finally delivered. Inspired by the hit franchise and based on the 2023 Blumhouse film, this house drops guests into the after-hours world of Freddy Fazbear’s Pizzeria, where once-friendly robotic performers turn deadly when the lights go out.

Follow in the footsteps of Mike, the nighttime security guard, as you step through the pizzeria’s entrance. The details are spot-on: classic black-and-white tile, stained glass accents along the booths, and children’s drawings hanging on the walls as a reminder of patrons’ past.

At the heart of it all, Freddy Fazbear, Bonnie, and Chica stand proudly on stage as they perform their cheerful routine (don’t worry, Foxy isn’t far behind), but look closer: as the lights dim, their eyes narrow with an unsettling glare, almost warning you to turn back before venturing deeper into the restaurant’s dark secrets.

The sense of immersion is especially strong thanks to the characters brought to life by the Jim Henson Creature Shop, the same team behind the costumes and mechanical figures in the film. That level of craftsmanship gives this house a cinematic authenticity that fans will appreciate.

That said, what elevates the experience further is the blurring of lines between puppets and scareactors. You’re never quite sure who (or what) is about to move, and that constant uncertainty keeps tension high throughout. The figures are so detailed and well-executed, it often feels like you’re inside a fully operational theme park dark ride, not a haunted house.

That balance of atmosphere and anxiety is what helped this house earn a top spot on our list. And before you exit, don’t miss the Five Nights at Freddy’s 2 poster cleverly placed near the end of this nightmare.

Read the announcement

3. Jason Universe

He’s back! For the first time in 10 years, Jason Voorhees makes his return to Halloween Horror Nights, and fans of classic slashers couldn’t be more excited. If you’re new to HHN (and hey, we’ve all been there), you can check out our full breakdown of Friday the 13th’s long legacy at the event over on our blog here.

With a sprawling franchise spanning 12 films and decades of lore, this house had a lot of ground to cover to do this horror icon justice, and it wastes no time throwing you straight into Jason’s brutal and bloody greatest hits.

While the narrative was light, the scares were relentless. Jason remains one of the most intimidating icons in horror, and the house makes full use of his unpredictability — you’re constantly on edge, never knowing where he’ll strike next.

For longtime fans, it was a treat to revisit iconic locations from the franchise, including Camp Crystal Lake, Jason’s infamous shack, and even a cameo from his mother, Pamela Voorhees. These nods elevated the experience and added that extra layer of nostalgia and reverence.

The combination of genuine scares and a faithful tribute to one of horror’s most enduring legends earns Jason Universe a well-deserved third place in our rankings.

Read the announcement

2. Terrifier

It’s hard to emphasize just how stacked and highly anticipated this year’s lineup of haunted houses really is. Fans have spent months speculating and making their dream requests, and Terrifier has been near the top of almost every list.

The Terrifier franchise has become the epitome of grotesque, unrelenting horror. Art the Clown, the star at its center with an unhinged grin, has arguably carved his place alongside icons like Freddy Krueger, Michael Myers, and fellow clown Pennywise. That said, it only feels right that he now joins the HHN pantheon. And what better way to welcome him than with his very own chaotic funhouse?

But let’s be real, we know why you’re really here. You’ve heard the rumors about this house, and yes… the water effects are real. We won’t spoil the specifics, but let’s just say: you may want to prepare to get wet. (If you’re not into that sort of thing, don’t worry — there’s a dry path available, too.)

While this may be one of the goriest houses in HHN history, we were surprised by just how fun it is! If you’re rolling through with your scream squad, taking the wet path adds a whole new level of hilarity as you react to the aftermath. The over-the-top nature of the scares, paired with Art’s darkly comedic presence, creates an experience that’s as entertaining as it is shocking. For that balance of chaos, humor, and horror, it earned a higher spot in our rankings.

Read the announcement

1. El Artista: A Spanish Haunting

We love it when a house completely transports us, and this one takes us far from 2025 Central Florida to 19th-century Spain. The story follows Sergio Navarro, a multi-talented artist — sculptor, woodworker, writer, and above all, painter. Seeking inspiration, he relocates to La Casa Creación, an isolated Spanish manor that, in true HHN fashion, is haunted by vengeful spirits. At first, it seems like a few extra “roommates” couldn’t hurt… but the ghosts have other plans, using Sergio’s art as a portal into our world and slowly consuming his mind and soul.

Even before entering the manor, you’re met with a massive, wisteria-draped façade, realistic and hauntingly beautiful. Listen carefully to catch ghostly whispers and Sergio’s own voice echoing faintly outside. Once in the manor, you enter Sergio’s studio, where he is hard at work while the spirits begin channeling their power through his paintings.

From there, you wander the conservatory, where the horror escalates as topiaries, gargoyles, and stained glass come to life. In fact, La Casa Creación’s conservatory connects directly to the event-wide narrative — it’s referenced in the Origins of Horror and Masquerade: Dance with Death scare zone and echoed throughout the park. Stained-glass motifs appear across multiple offerings, and Sergio’s voice can be heard narrating both the opening ceremony and playing intermittently throughout the evening, tying this house to the overall theme of Halloween Horror Nights 2025.

Back inside the manor, you wind through the courtyard (yes, more wisteria), library, and crypt, where the house really blurs the line between art and reality. The paintings themselves become unpredictable: subjects step out of their frames, ghosts burst through canvases, and figures seemingly walk through solid walls.

Adding to the immersion, this house engages all the senses. A somber score swells as Sergio loses control, while his journal narration guides you deeper into his unraveling mind. Thanks to the lingering wisteria, a result of a florist who moved into the house with her family seeking creative inspiration, only to fall victim to its curse, the air is even floral-scented, adding one final touch to this beautiful nightmare.

The experience is not only cohesive and beautifully executed but also elevated in both theme and design. It’s richly layered, emotionally resonant, visually stunning, and one of our favorite mazes in recent history. 

No surprise here: El Artista: A Spanish Haunting takes the #1 spot on our list.

Read the announcement

Halloween Horror Nights Scare Zones 2025

4. The Origins of Horror (Production Central)

The conservatory awaits — a haunting garden of stone and shadow, where monuments pay tribute to the icons and terrors of Halloween Horror Nights 2025. But as you wander through its dilapidated beauty, don’t get too comfortable… you never know what’s lurking behind you.

This scare zone serves as an introduction to your night, with statues honoring icons like Art the Clown, Freddy Fazbear, Jason Voorhees, and more. 

While the concept is strong and the atmosphere foreboding, the zone itself feels a little sparse, leaving some wishing for a few more scares to match its potential.

3. Masquerade: Dance with Death (Hollywood)

You’ve received an invitation to an exclusive Halloween masquerade — but beware, you’re not here as a guest. These are vampires, and you’re on the menu.

The area oozes opulence, centered around a massive fallen chandelier — with two very unfortunate souls crushed beneath it. Surrounding the scene are elegant stages adorned with champagne towers, stained glass windows, and ominous gargoyle statues. If you look closely, you might even spot a body or two tucked among the decadence.

The vampires stalking this space are dressed in Victorian attire, their faces hidden behind intricate masks that (almost) conceal their bloodthirsty nature. It’s tempting to be swept up in the glamour, but don’t get too entranced… or you might not make it out of the dance alive.

While this zone, like The Origins of Horror, felt a bit light on scares, we ranked it third thanks to its stunning set design and costuming, which gave it a haunting elegance that stood out from the rest.

2. Mutations: Toxic Twenties (New York)

Step into the aftermath of a mobster getaway gone horribly wrong. They almost escaped — until their car collided with a BuzzCon truck hauling toxic materials. Now, the roaring twenties have taken a dark turn, and the streets are crawling with mutants.

The New York area of the park is the perfect backdrop for this crime… or rather, this scare zone. Universal has layered in additional set pieces like florist stalls and newspaper stands (be sure to read the headlines!) that blend seamlessly with the existing cityscape. One detail we really enjoyed here was that the power to the set piece in the middle of this zone was cleverly disguised as a powerline post. 

A central stage features show moments where mobsters and flapper girls fall victim to the glowing green toxins, transforming before your eyes. All the while, a jazzy piano track loops in the background, tying the whole scene together with an unsettling, radioactive rhythm.

It truly feels like you’re wandering the streets of 1920s New York… if the Big Apple had neon-green goo seeping through the cracks and mutated mobsters lurking in the shadows.

1. The Cat Lady of Crooked Lane (Central Park)

Legend has it that the woman at the end of Crooked Lane lures unsuspecting trick-or-treaters down her path, transforming them into cats to add to her ever-growing collection.

In our opinion, this is one of the strongest scare zones Universal Orlando Resort has created in recent years. This area leans more playful than terrifying, with oversized storybook pages of the tale lining the street and toys scattered about — relics from former trick-or-treaters now turned felines. Overhead, a canopy of pumpkins strung in the trees adds an extra layer of classic Halloween charm. 

A standout portion of this scare zone is the house façade near Animal Actors on Location!, the home of the famous Cat Lady herself. It extends the depth of the zone and adds a strong visual anchor as she looms outside, scanning the crowd for her next victim. Throughout the night, catch show moments featuring the Cat Lady brewing potions or transforming trick-or-treaters into her feline familiars. If you look closely, you can even spot a few of her cats inside as they leap across furniture. 

Plus, as you walk this path from Hollywood toward Springfield: Home of the Simpsons, notice how the zone subtly evolves — with cat toys scaled for humans, and yes, even a few disturbingly oversized hairballs.

Honestly, with its fun theme and character potential, we’d love to see The Cat Lady of Crooked Lane evolve into a full-fledged house one day.

Honorable Mentions

This year, Universal has introduced several street experiences that may not be full-fledged scare zones but still pack plenty of frights and atmosphere. 

Death Eaters return to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley, casting a dark spell over the cobblestone streets with their menacing presence. Elsewhere, the faint growl of chainsaws in the distance signals the arrival of a roaming horde — one that can strike any time, anywhere, keeping you constantly on edge.

Over in San Francisco, the tone shifts with Club Horror, complete with live DJ and dancers that bring a party vibe to this area. Just down the street, Zombie Car Hops haunt the area around Mel’s Drive-In (or Mel’s Die-In, as it’s renamed for Halloween Horror Nights), serving up classic Americana with an undead twist.

But the one that has everyone on edge? Art the Clown. You never know when he’ll show up… or what kind of chaos he’ll unleash. 

Read the scare zone announcement

Halloween Horror Nights 2025 Shows

2. Nightmare Fuel: Circus of Decay

For the first time since 2022, Halloween Horror Nights features two live entertainment offerings, and in second place is the stage show: Nightmare Fuel: Circus of Decay. 

Nightmare Fuel has become a Halloween Horror Nights staple, setting the former Fear Factor stage ablaze (literally) year after year. The show blends death-defying aerial feats, explosive pyrotechnics, high-energy choreography, and jaw-dropping illusions into one of HHN’s most adrenaline-pumping performances.

The production continues to evolve with each new edition, and 2025’s installment, Circus of Decay, returns to its familiar dark circus theme as a direct sequel to last year’s performance. The energy is just as relentless, the visuals more polished than ever, and the performers continue to raise the bar with every gravity-defying act, keeping you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

1. Haunt-O-Phonic: A Ghoulish Journey

Gather around the water’s edge for Haunt-O-Phonic: A Ghoulish Journey, Halloween Horror Nights 2025’s lagoon spectacle, where a ghostly tale unfolds through the crackling narration of an old record player, brought to life with projection mapping and haunting visuals on water screens.

This show is a lighter, more whimsical break from the relentless horrors of the houses and scare zones, leaning into playful, vintage Halloween motifs like mummies, werewolves, skeletons, and black cats. The show evokes the same spirit as 2022’s Ghoulish! A Halloween Tale, and while it may not be the scariest moment of your night, it’s certainly an impressive spectacle worth catching.

Read the entertainment announcement 

Learn more about Halloween Horror Nights in our insider’s guide, then 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 REVIEW: Halloween Horror Nights 2025 appeared first on Orlando Informer.

While we’ll have to wait a little longer to experience the full terror for ourselves, SeaWorld Orlando gave us a sneak peek of what’s to come through a one-of-a-kind fashion show featuring monstrous new looks straight from the underworld and onto the catwalk.

Want to experience it all for less? You can grab your discounted Howl-O-Scream 2025 tickets directly through Orlando Informer here, making your night of scares even sweeter.

Howl-O-Scream 2025 Fashion Show

The Howl-O-Scream 2025 Fashion Show gave us a chilling first look at the creatures and characters set to haunt SeaWorld Orlando this fall. The runway was packed with street styles from returning scare zones like Blood Light District and Cannibal Harbor, along with glimpses of brand-new zones, including Woodrot Hollow and Ashes of the Forgotten.

In fact, one of the biggest reveals came from the Ashes of the Forgotten scare zone, introducing this year’s new icon: Havoc. He is described as Hell’s ambassador to the living — a punisher and breaker of souls. Once bound to the shadows by the Sirens, the former icons of Howl-O-Scream, Havoc is now free to roam. He rides between worlds, dragging Earth’s sins into his fiery arena. His battleground is one of flesh, fire, and slaughter, where fear fuels his power. We were able to witness Havoc’s first public appearance as he stormed down the catwalk, officially claiming his throne as the face of this year’s event.

The preview didn’t stop there. We also got a first look at this year’s haunted houses, including these new additions: Widow’s Nest, The Rave Yard, and The Collector’s Curse. These fresh nightmares join returning favorites, like Farm 51 and Water’s Edge Wellness Center, to deliver a terrifying lineup for 2025.

The fashion show also showcased the event’s live entertainment, with performers from Scorchline: Deadly Rhythm, Monster Stomp, and Hellzapoppin Presents: The Grave Danger Thrill Show making their way from stage to runway.

This exclusive fashion show offered an exciting taste of what’s to come, leaving us with even greater anticipation for the event’s official kick-off in September.

Learn more about every scare zone and haunted house in our complete Howl-O-Scream 2025 guide here.

Event Merchandise First Look

No fight night is complete without a souvenir, and this year’s merchandise collection at SeaWorld Orlando delivers plenty of options. Guests can shop exclusive event apparel, including t-shirts, hoodies, and jerseys, along with themed baseball caps and bucket hats featuring designs tied to Howl-O-Scream 2025. 

Beyond clothing, you’ll find collectible drinkware, backpacks, and accessories to keep the screams alive long after the night ends. One standout item is the Howl-O-Scream shoulder pal—a fan-favorite trend in the theme park world—this year featuring creepy companions like skeletons and scarecrows ready to perch on your shoulder all night long.

As the countdown to Howl-O-Scream 2025 continues, this year’s fashion show has us more eager than ever to face the scares lurking in the shadows. From Havoc’s fiery debut to the new haunted houses and scare zones, it’s clear SeaWorld Orlando is raising the bar. Don’t miss your chance to experience every moment—grab your discounted Howl-O-Scream tickets through Orlando Informer here and get ready for a night of unforgettable frights.

Discuss this exciting event with others on our SeaWorld Community on Facebook. 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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Whether you’re starting your night of frights or winding down from the screams, Dead Coconut Club offers the perfect haunting hangout. 

Pair your visit to this one-of-a-kind witchy lounge with a ticket to Halloween Horror Nights—secure yours here.

Dead Coconut Club History

Since debuting in 2022, Dead Coconut Club has become a must-visit during Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando Resort. Each fright nights season, Red Coconut Club temporarily transforms with immersive storytelling, over-the-top themed décor, and creative cocktails.

In past years, Dead Coconut Club has channeled everything from tropical twists on Universal Monsters to a classic movie theater-inspired horror vibe. The 2024 theme blended an eerie 1980s vampire lair aesthetic with Blumhouse-inspired elements, adding retro chills to the club’s evolving legacy.

But the transformations don’t stop with Halloween. During the Holidays at Universal, the venue becomes the Green & Red Coconut Club, decked out in festive cheer. And when Universal Mardi Gras rolls around, it morphs again—this time into the enchanting and eerie Cursed Coconut Club.

A Look Inside Dead Coconut Club

This year, the KOΛΣN sisterhood invites you into Dead Coconut Club. The venue has fully embraced its witchy sorority theme, transforming into a two-story hideaway.

Downstairs, guests enter a moody study hall where these scholarly sisters hone their craft. Cauldrons bubble, spellbooks stack high, and a few watchful witches make sure you don’t stumble upon too many of their secrets. Stunning stained-glass windows inspired by tarot cards create a dreamy backdrop for photos. Be sure to snap a picture with the cheeky “Drink Up, Witches” sign, too!

You may even catch the KOΛΣN sisters performing one of their rituals—with an unfortunate frat boy as the star of the show. (Entertainment subject to change.)

Venture upstairs for a cozy, laid-back dormitory where the KOΛΣN unwinds between rituals. Here, you’ll find creepy dolls, band posters, twinkling fairy lights, and vanities tucked among plenty of seating. The lived-in feel nicely contrasts with the ceremonial atmosphere below, offering a glimpse into the sisters’ off-duty lives.

Don’t miss the glowing “Slay girl, slay” neon sign surrounded by the sisters’… let’s say “tools of the trade.” Trust us — this photo op is destined to become one of the most iconic shots of HHN season.

Dead Coconut Club 2025 Menu

Downstairs Cocktails

Kappa Killer
Planteray Siggins’ Fancy Pineapple rum, Planteray OFTD Overproof rum, Bols blue curaçao, pineapple juice, orange juice, and cream of coconut
20 oz. Souvenir – $18.00
Souvenir Refill – $14.00
12 oz. Single Serve – $14.00

Omicron Punch
Three Olives Vodka, Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, apple juice, orange juice, lemon juice, ginger beer
20 oz. Souvenir – $18.00
Souvenir Refill – $14.00
12 oz. Single Serve – $14.00
Mocktail – $9.00

Lambda Lament
Jägermeister, Cruzan Dark Rum, lemon juice, orgeat syrup, ginger syrup, and red glitter
20 oz. Souvenir – $18.00
Souvenir Refill – $14.00
12 oz. Single Serve – $14.00

Sigma-rita
Curevo Tradicional blanco tequila, Dekuyper triple sec, lime juice, sour mix, dragon fruit syrup
20 oz. Souvenir – $18.00
Souvenir Refill – $14.00
12 oz. Single Serve – $14.00

Nu Brew
Old Forrester Bourbon, lime juice, blackcurrant syrup, and ginger beer
20 oz. Souvenir – $18.00
Souvenir Refill – $14.00
12 oz. Single Serve – $14.00

Upstairs Cocktails

Moonlit Grove
New Amsterdam gin, St-Germaine elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, lavender syrup, and club soda
20 oz. Souvenir – $18.00
Souvenir Refill – $14.00
12 oz. Single Serve – $14.00

Wormwood Whisper
Cruzan light rum, Green Chartreuse, lime juice, agave syrup, mint, club soda, and blue glitter
20 oz. Souvenir – $18.00
Souvenir Refill – $14.00
12 oz. Single Serve – $14.00

Enchanted Garden – $9.00
(Mocktail) Lemon juice, peach purée, lavender syrup, and club soda

Forrest Reserve – $19.00
Woodford Reserve bourbon, The Bitter Truth Violet liqueur, simple syrup, and Angostura bitters

Samhain Spirit – $18.00
Bailey’s Irish creme liqueur, pumpkin syrup, vanilla syrup, and heavy cream

Canned Beer

Cursed Cranberry Vodka Spritz – $14.75
Tripping Animals Brewing Co. Fresh Fangs Sour Ale – $14.00
Modelo – $11.75
Michelob Ultra – $10.75
Miller Lite – $10.75
High Noon – $13.00
Nütrl – $13.00

Wine

Spellbound Cabernet Sauvignon – $11.00
Cupcake Vineyards Prosecco – $13.00
Noble Vines 446 Chardonnay – $11.00

Draft Beer

Crooked Can Bürgermeister Oktoberfest
20 oz. Souvenir – $16.50
Souvenir Refill – $12.50
20 oz. Single Serve – $13.50

Whole Hog Pumpkin Ale
20 oz. Souvenir Cup – $16.50
Refill – $12.75
20 oz. Single Serve – $13.50

Angry Orchard Headless Pumpkin Cider
20 oz. Souvenir Cup – $17.75
Refill – $13.75
20 oz. Single Serve – $14.75

Learn more about Halloween Horror Nights in our insider’s guide, then 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 Dead Coconut Club 2025 at Universal CityWalk: FIRST LOOK appeared first on Orlando Informer.

As one of the legendary Celestians—beings who were either born in or drawn to the wondrous world of Celestial Park—Captain Cacao brings whimsy and wonder to Epic Universe. Ready to unwrap the story of this small but mighty hero? You’re in the right place!

Who is Epic Universe’s Captain Cacao?

You may have found yourself wandering into Moonship Chocolates & Celestial Sweets—and honestly, how could you resist? As you walk in, you’ll immediately spot a darling teddy bear with a star over his right eye and a captain’s hat perched atop his fuzzy head. That’s none other than Captain Cacao! But how did this adorable traveler end up in Celestial Park?

With the help of another Celestian—a curious and adventurous girl named Maya of the Skies—Captain Cacao explores the cosmos. Maya travels aboard her enchanted Moonship, the Marshmallow Airship Joei de Ganache, powered by star-shaped floating marshmallows. And yes, you can board this vessel yourself when you step inside Moonship Chocolate & Celestial Sweets at Epic Universe.

Driven by a passion for discovering the finest flavors, Maya soars through the stars in search of the best ingredients the universe has to offer. By her side through every journey is her best friend and the Airship’s loyal captain—Captain Cacao himself. Legend has it that Captain Cacao learned navigation skills just so he could help Maya on her adventures across the universe.

With all this talk of delectable sweets, it makes you wonder if Captain Cacao has run into Penelope and Jaques from Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen on his travels!

Captain Cacao at Moonship Chocolates and Celestial Sweets

Before stepping into Moonship Chocolate & Celestial Sweets, don’t forget to look up—you’ll spot the legendary Moonship soaring above, with its intrepid crew: Captain Cacao and Maya of the Skies. Inside the shop, alongside an irresistible array of sweet treats, keep an eye out for charming nods to Captain Cacao throughout the space.

One of the most delightful hidden details inside Moonship Chocolate & Celestial Sweets is a series of miniature doors embedded in one of the shop’s walls. The largest belongs to Maya, the mid-sized door is for Captain Cacao, and the tiniest is marked “M.L.” – short for Major Lolli, a feisty sugar glider who helps keep the Moonship prepped and ready to go.

Another fascinating find is Captain Cacao’s map, which is displayed inside the shop. This chart reveals all the mysterious places where Captain Cacao and Maya gather their delectable ingredients for all the confections offered in the shop. Just to the left of the register, you’ll also find a case filled with unique artifacts collected during their travels.

And of course, beyond the amazing treats, you can bring home Captain Cacao merchandise—including a plushie, bucket hat, or backpack to commemorate your visit to Epic Universe.

So the next time you step into Moonship Chocolate & Celestial Sweets, keep your eyes peeled for all these charming details—and who knows? You might just find yourself swept up in Captain Cacao’s next great adventure across the stars!

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. 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.

The post Captain Cacao at Epic Universe: Meet Celestial Park’s Sweetest Hero appeared first on Orlando Informer.

Food in Epic Universe’s Celestial Park

Top Dessert: Landlubber’s Snickerdoodle Loot | Atlantic

A whimsical beach-pail delight with snickerdoodle cake, rich cookie butter ganache, and Biscoff “sand,” topped with a gummy shark, chocolate starfish, and crab cookie.

Top Snack: Snowflake Potstickers | The Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant

Delicate, lacy-crusted pork potstickers, pan-seared to crispy perfection and served with a smoky-spicy dragon sauce.

Top Meal: Oak & Star BBQ Platter | The Oak & Star Tavern

Choose your favorite smoked meat (brisket, ribs, pulled pork, chicken, or sausage) alongside comforting sides like mac & cheese and braised greens for a hearty, crowd-pleasing feast.

Top Drink: Chengdu Dream | The Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant

A vibrant, tropically-tinged cocktail blending Ming River Sichuan Baijiu, DeKuyper blue curaçao, BG Reynolds Falernum, white grapefruit juice, and pineapple juice.

Top Pick: Oak & Star BBQ Platter with Mango Bread | The Oak & Star Tavern

The perfect savory-sweet duo that’s drawing all the buzz, blending smoky BBQ with tangy softness in every bite.

Dark Universe Dining

Top Dessert: Labotocotta | Das Stakehaus

A Greek yogurt vanilla panna cotta shaped like a brain, drizzled with raspberry sauce for an eerie (and surprisingly light) finale.

Top Snack: Burning Cheddar Bites | The Burning Blade Tavern

Crispy jalapeño-pimento cheddar poppers served with sriracha ranch, perfect for sharing with your monster-hunting crew.

Top Meal: Carved Staked Steak | Das Stakehaus

Juicy strip steak with charred green onion mashed potatoes, roasted baby carrots, acorn squash, crispy maitake mushrooms, and a deep, rich “bloody” jus.

Top Drink: Pure of Heart | The Burning Blade Tavern

A beautiful, deep-purple cocktail with whiskey, violet liqueur, crème de cassis, lime and pineapple juices, honey syrup, and blackberry essence—finished with a splash of ginger beer.

Top Pick: Labotocotta | Das Stakehaus

Deliciously unsettling and one of the most photographed desserts in Epic Universe.

What to Eat in How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk

Top Dessert: Stormfly’s Catch of the Day | Mead Hall

A whimsical chocolate mousse shaped like a fish, served on a bed of crunchy cereal crumble.

Top Snack: PB&J Mac & Cheese Cone | Hooligan’s Grog & Gruel

Creamy mac & cheese in a crunchy, everything-bagel–seasoned cone, topped with BBQ harissa pulled pork, maple bacon, and jam for a sweet-and-savory punch. The other varieties—like the classic Goldfish-topped cone and the spicy Dragon Fire Chicken Spire—are just as irresistible.

Top Meal: Stoick’s Steak Bowl | Spit Fyre Grill

Tenderloin steak served with sticky rice, sweet potato hash, roasted mushrooms, Manchego, and horseradish sauce. The chicken, shrimp, salmon, and vegan bowls are also excellent choices.

Top Drink: Yaknog | Mead Hall

A malted chocolate and cinnamon drink topped with whipped cream, rich and cozy enough to double as dessert.

Top Pick: PB&J Mac & Cheese Cone | Hooligan’s Grog & Gruel

A bold, photo-worthy bite that perfectly blends comfort food with unexpected flavor.

Food in Epic Universe’s SUPER NINTENDO WORLD

Top Dessert: Princess Peach’s Birthday Cake | Toadstool Cafe

A fluffy yellow cake crowned with whipped cream, fresh strawberries, raspberries, and apples—topped off with star-shaped chocolates, a cookie, and a signature Princess Peach cookie for the perfect royal treat.

Top Snack: Red Shell Calzone | Yoshi’s Snack Island

A handheld, mushroom-shaped calzone stuffed with cheese and Italian meat sauce; fun to look at and satisfying to eat.

Top Meal: Mario Burger | Toadstool Cafe

A juicy burger with bacon, mushrooms, lettuce, tomato, and cheese, topped with Thousand Island dressing, served with truffle fries in a red Mario-branded wrapper.

Top Drink: DK Crush Float | The Bubbly Barrel

Banana-pineapple soft serve in pineapple soda, topped with caramel popcorn and toffee bits, served in a waffle bowl or souvenir Donkey Kong mug.

Top Pick: DK Crush Float | The Bubbly Barrel

Eye-catching, over-the-top, and packed with tropical sweetness, this is the sip everyone’s talking about.

Epic Universe Food Found in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic

Top Dessert: Bièraubeurre Crêpe | Café L’air De La Sirène

A decadent crêpe filled with shortbread cookie butter, Bavarian cream, and Butterbeer cream, topped with strawberries, a drizzle of Butterbeer sauce, and a shortbread cookie.

Top Snack: Baklava | Le Goblet Noir

Technically a dessert, this crispy pastry doubles as a quick and satisfying snack between rides and shows.

Top Meal: Poulet à la Provençale | Café L’air De La Sirène

Roasted chicken with tomato-olive vinaigrette, roasted potatoes, and haricots verts.

Top Drink: Classic Butterbeer | Various Locations

Served cold or frozen, this sweet butterscotch-caramel beverage is a must-have for Harry Potter fans.

Top Pick: Bièraubeurre Crêpe | Café L’air De La Sirène

The ultimate whimsical-meets-indulgent dessert in the Ministry of Magic.

Your Epic Eating Game Plan

Epic Universe has truly raised the bar when it comes to theme park dining—you can’t go wrong no matter where you eat in the park. Whether it’s sweet crêpes, hearty Viking feasts, or playful Nintendo-inspired bites, every corner offers something worth savoring.

Bonus Bites

• Pizza Lunare | Pizza Moon – Roasted garlic béchamel, fromage de lune, ricotta, pancetta, garlic confit, and a striking purple celestial ube crust.
• Hunter’s Garlic Stake | The Burning Blade Tavern – Crispy garlic butter pretzel served with garlic dipping sauce.
• Quiche Lorraine | Café L’air De La Sirène – Egg custard, bacon, caramelized onions, flaky pie crust, and Mornay sauce.
• Warm Hearted Cinnamon Bites | De Lacey’s Cottage – Warm cinnamon sugar donut bites with cream cheese icing and streusel.
• Thawfest Platter | Mead Hall – Wild berry BBQ glazed chicken drumsticks, grilled salmon, sausage links, roasted carrots, Cipollini onions, Nordic fries, and side sauces.
• Baked Oysters Valentina | Atlantic – Spinach purée, gruyère cheese, bacon herb crumb.
• Filet Mignon | Atlantic – 6 oz premium Angus beef with crispy potato mille-feuille, truffle cream, Atlantic steak sauce, and watercress salad.
• Dragon Fried Rice | The Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant – Wok-fried rice with lump crab, shrimp, sausage, egg, and snow peas.

Come hungry and ready to explore at Universal Epic Universe! Take small bites and share with your crew so you can try as much as possible. Snack your way through all five worlds and let your taste buds lead the adventure.

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. 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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Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar for October 2025

October at Universal Orlando Resort tends to be a relatively quiet month, with moderate crowds overall. You may notice a slight surge around Indigenous Peoples’ Day on October 13, as some visitors take advantage of the long weekend.

The biggest crowd draw during this time is Halloween Horror Nights, which runs on select evenings throughout the month. While this is a separately ticketed event, it can still impact daytime attendance—especially at Universal Studios Florida near closing time, as guests arrive early to enjoy the event’s early admission benefits.

If you’d like a day-by-day breakdown of expected attendance, our FREE crowd calendar provides detailed projections to help you plan your visit.

Events at Universal Orlando in October 2025

Halloween Horror Nights

Halloween Horror Nights 2025 runs from Friday, August 29 through Sunday, November 2—so if you’re visiting in October, you’ll be right in the middle of fright season. Each year, the event debuts brand-new haunted houses, scare zones, live shows, and themed food offerings. This year’s lineup features Fallout, Five Nights at Freddy’s, The Wyatt Sicks, and much more.

Even if you’re only a little curious, we highly recommend experiencing HHN at least once—it’s a cornerstone of Universal Orlando Resort’s fall festivities. Learn more about Halloween Horror Nights tickets here.

Dead Coconut Club

If you’re looking for a less intense alternative to Halloween Horror Nights—or you just want a fun spot to get hyped before the event or unwind afterward—Dead Coconut Club is a perfect pick. This seasonal overlay of Red Coconut Club at Universal CityWalk transforms each fall with immersive décor, themed music, and specialty cocktails. No event ticket is required, and it’s scheduled to be open on Halloween Horror Nights event evenings.

As of publication, the 2025 theme hasn’t been announced yet, but past versions have become fan-favorite hangouts for both Halloween Horror Nights fans and casual visitors. Stay tuned for official details—and in the meantime, take a peek at last year’s Dead Coconut Club to get an idea of what might be in store.

Temporary Ride Closures & Refurbishments at Universal Orlando Resort in October 2025

At Islands of Adventure, Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls will be temporarily closed for refurbishment from October 6 through October 31. 

This is the only scheduled closure currently on the calendar. If additional refurbishments are announced, we’ll keep our Snapshot page updated with the latest information on planned ride closures and other key happenings at Universal Orlando Resort throughout October and beyond.

Keep in mind that unscheduled attraction closures can happen at any time due to weather and other factors. For the most accurate, real-time updates during your visit, check the Universal Orlando Resort app.

Universal Orlando Resort Weather in October 2025

October weather in Orlando can be pleasantly mild—but don’t be fooled, the high 80s with humidity are still possible. Many guests stick with shorts and casual t-shirts during the day, but if you tend to get chilly, a light sweater or jacket can come in handy for cooler evenings.

What to Pack:

• Supportive footwear: Sneakers or other shoes designed for comfort and support will be your best friend—especially after logging over 20,000 steps in a day. Flip-flops or trendy sandals may look cute, but your feet will thank you for making the practical choice.
• Extra socks: Keep a spare pair in your bag in case of unexpected rain or water rides. 
• Rain gear: A poncho or compact umbrella is worth having on hand for those surprise Florida thunderstorms.
• Layering Options: Shorts, T-shirts, and athletic wear work best during the day. If the temperature dips, a light sweatshirt or jacket can make evenings more comfortable.

For a deeper dive into Orlando’s seasonal weather, check out our month-by-month weather guide, where you’ll find average highs, lows, rainfall patterns, and tips for every time of year.

Whether you’re braving haunted houses at Halloween Horror Nights, sipping themed cocktails at Dead Coconut Club, or soaking in a sunny fall afternoon, October offers a little bit of everything. With the proper planning, you’ll make the most of your October 2025 visit to Universal Orlando Resort!

And don’t forget: if you haven’t already, snag discounted theme park admission through Orlando Informer and save on your October 2025 Universal Orlando Resort vacation!

Learn tips and tricks from 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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With the event creeping closer each day and this exciting announcement generating a wave of anticipation, it makes sense that fans of both Fallout and HHN would want to begin preparing accordingly. But navigating the sprawling lore, apocalyptic settings, and pop culture impact of Fallout can be overwhelming. That’s where your dependable team at Orlando Informer steps in to guide you through the rubble.

Now, hook on that Pipboy, and let’s take our first steps into the vast, glowing terrain of the Wasteland.

Key Details from the Amazon Prime Video Series

In the Amazon Prime Video series, fans enter this world circa 2296. Our journey begins in the tunneled halls of Vault 33, where we encounter Lucy—an optimistic vault dweller whose life is upended when raiders violently breach her home. In the aftermath of the attack, Lucy is forced to leave what remains of her underground refuge and venture into The Wasteland, a radiation-ravaged, post-apocalyptic version of Los Angeles. As she ventures beyond the vault in search of safety and answers, she meets unique characters like Maximus, a determined soldier of the Brotherhood of Steel, and The Ghoul, a centuries-old bounty hunter with a Hollywood past.

As the house is heavily based on the first season of the Amazon Prime Video series, this should be considered mandatory as part of your preparation for the house. Admittedly, it’s hard to predict exactly what Universal will incorporate into this house, but here’s what we do know via the timeline of announcements: guests can expect to cross paths with Lucy, Maximus, and The Ghoul, along with other familiar elements from the series. Expect confrontations with bounty hunters, scavengers, and raiders shaped by decades of post-nuclear survival.

Universal has also teased the inclusion of a brutal massacre scene—likely depicting the raider attack on Vault 33—as well as encounters with mutated creatures like RADroaches. Fans of the franchise will also spot familiar locations, like the Super Duper Mart, which appears throughout the games, and twice, so far, in the series.

Which Fallout Games to Play Before HHN 2025

The most important thing to consider is that much of the Fallout series on Amazon Prime Video is unique to the show. Central characters like Lucy, The Ghoul, and Maximus do not appear in the mainstream games. That said, the series draws heavily from the Fallout franchise in both style and substance, incorporating iconic themes and lore that long-time players will instantly recognize.

So, what should we know going into the house that the show hasn’t already presented? That may be difficult to answer, as the official announcements only speak about the Amazon Prime Video series. However, playing the games certainly wouldn’t hurt and may even get fans more excited to enter the Wasteland in person. This leads us to ask which of those games to consider.

The Fallout franchise began in 1997 and comprises a series of 11 games to date (excluding Fallout 5, which has been greenlit but not yet given a release date). While every installment offers something worthwhile, the Amazon Prime Video series stands as its own original narrative within the universe. That said, it shares notable similarities with Fallout 4, making that 2015 installment an excellent choice for fans looking to dive deeper into the world ahead of Halloween Horror Nights.

Several confirmed elements from the haunted house, including RADroaches, Ghouls, and the Super Duper Mart, are part of the 2015 entry’s in-game environment. While Deathclaws and Super Mutants haven’t been officially confirmed for the house, both would be fitting additions—especially given the series has teased their eventual appearance.

Fans of both Fallout and HHN are chomping at the bit for this highly anticipated house. Fortunately, the wait to step into the Amazon Prime Video series’ post-apocalyptic world won’t be much longer. Until then, diving into the show—and the games that inspired it—is the perfect way to prepare for the Wasteland that awaits.

Learn more about Halloween Horror Nights in our insider’s guide, then 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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Not only are there unique finds in each portal, but some secrets tie the entire park together—giving Epic Universe the distinct charm of truly feeling like its own world. There are countless hidden details for those well-versed in Universal lore, but we’ve narrowed it down to our top 15. Let’s take a look!

Secrets in Epic Universe’s Celestial Park

You might be thinking, Celestial Park is a newly imagined area, so what hidden gems could there possibly be? Quite a few, actually! From beloved Easter eggs to clever nods to Universal history, here are some details you won’t want to miss:

• Earl the Squirrel: Inside Northstar Wintry Wonders (look for the falling snow out front), you can spot Earl the Squirrel not once, but twice! Look up to see a conveyor belt of toys that includes an Earl the Squirrel plush. Follow the belt to a screen where the toys are loaded into Santa’s sleigh… and yes, Earl makes it aboard!
• Flux Capacitor on Stardust Racers: Each coaster vehicle for Stardust Racers sports a Flux Capacitor on the back, a nod to the Back to the Future franchise. While the ride feels like it could hit 88 mph, it actually tops out at 62 mph. The ride’s backstory explains that a certain time-traveling doctor once visited Celestial Park and donated his advanced tech to stabilize the racing comets.
• Celestial Park Tales: Many stores, restaurants, and attractions in Celestial Park have their own unique lore explaining their origins. You can uncover these stories by checking out each location’s individual guide (Start here!)

Hidden Gems inside SUPER NINTENDO WORLD

Next up, get those Power-Up Bands on, because we’re headed to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD! If you’re a fan of Nintendo, you know that they are beyond detail-oriented — and this land is filled with secrets and nods to the games you love. Here are a few of our favorite hidden details:

• Shrinking Hallway: On the upper level, you’ll come across a room with a mischievous Bob-omb. As it “explodes” on-screen, the walls, bricks, and power-up blocks suddenly appear larger — that’s because you’ve shrunk, just like in the Super Mario Bros. games! Solve the puzzle at the end of the hall, and you’ll be rewarded with a mushroom to restore your size.
• Pikmin on the Loose: These adorable plant-like creatures from Nintendo’s Pikmin games are hidden all around this realm. Look for them near the portal to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, in the Mine-Cart Madness queue mural, and even near the Nintendo Super Star Store in Celestial Park. How many can you spot?
• Bowser’s Autographed Portrait: Inside the queue for Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, one portrait of Bowser features a special autograph from Shigeru Miyamoto, the legendary creator behind Mario, The Legend of Zelda, Donkey Kong, and Pikmin.

Fun Facts from Epic Universe’s Dark Universe

Now, get out your garlic bulbs and wooden stakes, because we’re heading to the village of Darkmoor. This entire area is packed with hidden details and easter eggs, but here are a few of our favorites:

• Maria’s Memorial: In the graveyard at the entrance (where you might even spot Dr. Victoria Frankenstein’s assistant, Ygor, wandering), look for a statue of a young girl holding flowers in her dress. This is a touching nod to Maria from the original Frankenstein film—an accidental victim of Frankenstein’s Monster—serving as a quiet memorial to one of Universal’s most tragic characters.
• The Darkmoor Well: The village is said to be built above catacombs where vampires dwell. The well outside Das Stakehaus emits fog by day, but glows ominous red at night to signal that the vampires have awoken. Look closer, and you’ll spot spikes for “feeding” those below, plus a Latin inscription on the metal band that translates to: “Never forget that you exist by our will alone.” Guess that’s the vampire way of saying welcome?
• The Number 428: Spotted throughout Darkmoor, this number is a nod to Carl Laemmle Jr.’s birthday (April 28). As the son of Universal Studios’ founder and the producer behind multiple original Universal Monster movies, his legacy is honored here. Look for “428” on a brick wall across from Das Stakehaus and again on the radio in Pretorius’ Scientific Oddities.

Easter Eggs Revealed from The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic

Just like Darkmoor, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic is teeming with fun finds that fans of the Boy Who Lived will love! 

• Muggle vs. Magical Posters: As you enter through the portal into 1920s Paris, the walls are covered in posters meant for Muggles. Once you pass through the archway, and the ads shift to magical ones promoting everything from frog choir auditions to warnings about not confronting Grindelwald—or using the Eiffel Tower as a portkey! Don’t speak French? Grab a translation app and see what else you can discover! One mural needs no translation: a massive vintage perfume ad to your right as you enter. This is an earlier version of Divine Magic, the same wizarding fragrance featured in King’s Cross Station and Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.
• A Dark Detail: At the first house on Rue Cachee, you’ll occasionally see a green light glowing in the window—a clear sign of the Killing Curse in The Wizarding World. This is believed to be the site of Grindelwald’s first crimes. Look closely in the other windows and you’ll spot the eerie skull pipe he used in the Fantastic Beasts films.
• Secrets of Le Goblet Noir: On a lighter note, if you decide to dine at Le Goblet Noir (and you should), take a moment to look around! Since Nicolas Flamel lives above the tavern, references to the Sorcerer’s Stone and Deathly Hallows are sprinkled throughout. Spot the Deathly Hallows symbol hanging in the corner and the Three Brothers puppets from The Tale of the Three Brothers, like those seen in the Diagon Alley puppet show.

Secrets in Epic Universe’s How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk

Now we’ll glide our way to Isle of Berk. According to Senior Creative Director Katy Pacitti, this area is more about immersive details than hidden Easter eggs—but we still uncovered some fun finds for you.

• A Sweet Personal Touch: Universal often slips in nods to the creatives who help bring the parks to life. Inside the How to Treat Your Dragon shop, look toward the upper displays to spot “Katy’s Kandy’s,” a reference to Senior Creative Director Katy Pacitti herself!
• Tug-of-War: Among Berk’s many dragons (including Cloudjumper, Hiccup’s mom’s dragon, who alternates between being asleep and awake), you’ll find two adorable baby dragons playing tug-of-war with a fish. This playful moment is a fun callback to other Universal attractions—like two dinos fighting over a shirt on Jurassic Park River Adventure and a pair battling over a slice at Pizza Predatoria in Islands of Adventure.
• Gothi’s Perch: When visiting Mead Hall, don’t forget to look up—way up! Above the grand 16-foot-7-inch doors is the hut of Gothi, the silent village elder. You’ll spot her standing outside, keeping a watchful eye over the entire Isle of Berk, dragons and Vikings alike.

We hope you’ve enjoyed these little Easter Eggs and fun finds. Besides the exciting rides and attractions, one way to enjoy Epic Universe is to take a moment to look and listen. You might hear jazz drifting through the streets of The Wizarding World, catch a secret conversation in Dark Universe, or spot a clever detail high above your head. Every corner of Epic Universe is packed with surprises that make it feel truly alive—and who knows, maybe you’ll even discover a few secrets of your own!

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. 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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But for longtime HHN fans, Jason’s presence is anything but new. Over the span of three decades, Jason has crossed into the HHN realm many times, even before the announcement of Jason Universe for 2025.

So, let’s revisit the twisted path that led from Camp Crystal Lake to Universal Orlando Resort. Here’s a deep dive into Jason’s storied history at HHN.

Jason Voorhees Debuts in Bill and Ted’s Excellent Halloween Adventure

Long before the days of Nightmare Fuel, back in 1992, Halloween Horror Nights welcomed the debut of a fan-favorite show: Bill and Ted’s Excellent Halloween Adventure. That year marked the first time the Wyld Stallyns brought their unique show to HHN audiences.

During a mishap in which the duo time-traveled, intending to trick-or-treat in their neighborhood over and over again, Bill and his best friend Ted ended up in the Old West. Here, they encountered Black Bart, who stole their time booth and recruited cinema’s most sinister killers (as you do), including Freddy Krueger, The Terminator, and Jason Voorhees. Although Bill and Ted were, naturally, most victorious, this marked Jason’s first appearance at HHN.

Jason Voorhees in Early HHN Compilation Houses

After his appearance in Bill and Ted’s Excellent Halloween Adventure, Jason went on to feature in various houses and shows over the following years. Most could be considered minor cameos, except for 2003’s All Nite Die-In.

This house was inspired by the HHN13 icon, The Director, and split into four parts, where guests encountered some major movie baddies: Michael Myers, Jason Voorhees, Freddy Krueger, and Leatherface. Although all four would go on to become HHN alumni with multiple appearances over the years, Jason would be the first to receive a house of his own just four years later.

Friday the 13th: Camp Blood

In 2007, guests were treated to a “best-of” journey across the Friday the 13th timeline with Friday the 13th: Camp Blood. This house marked a milestone as the first Halloween Horror Nights maze fully dedicated to Jason Voorhees.

While the house was created specifically for the event, its story served as a love letter to the entire franchise up to that point. Its name not only acknowledged the original Friday the 13th’s working title, A Long Night at Camp Blood, but also featured some of the franchise’s most memorable kills, multiple iterations of Jason Voorhees (even Jason X), and a literal shrine to Jason’s mother.

Freddy vs. Jason

Jason made a comeback for Halloween Horror Nights’ 25th anniversary—but this time, he wasn’t alone. In the Freddy vs. Jason house, two of horror’s most iconic slashers went head-to-head, reigniting a rivalry that had first thrilled fans on the big screen more than a decade earlier in 2003.

However, Universal Creative added a twist: The house ended with a random finale kill. Either Jason emerged with Freddy’s decapitated head, or Freddy emerged holding Jason’s mask. This allowed Universal to pay homage to the film’s ambiguous ending while showcasing their creative dedication to honoring the movie’s spirit.

Jason Universe

A decade after what was arguably one of HHN’s most beloved houses, Jason has re-emerged once again from the dark depths of HHN. The 2025 house will serve as an introduction for franchise newcomers and a reminder of Jason’s bloody legacy for longtime Horror Nights enthusiasts.

Guests kick off their terrifying journey at the infamous Camp Crystal Lake, stepping straight into Jason’s “vengeance tour.” Jason also has a revamped look, thanks to a collaboration with horror legend Greg Nicotero. Among the upgrades? A brand-new, 13-holed hockey mask.

How this ties in with the upcoming Crystal Lake series has yet to be seen, but what’s certain is that HHN’s Jason Universe will serve as a terrifying new chapter in the Friday the 13th franchise.

Ready to face Jason yourself? Secure your Halloween Horror Nights tickets through Orlando Informer and be among the first to experience this chilling new house… if you dare.

Learn more about Halloween Horror Nights in our insider’s guide, then 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’s how Universal describes the experience:

Enter the eerie arena of The Wyatt Sicks, where you’ll go through an ominous doorway into the maniacal minds of Uncle Howdy, Rambling Rabbit, Mercy the Buzzard, Abby the Witch and Huskus the Pig.

The Wyatt Sicks is a WWE professional wrestling group that blends the surreal with the sinister. The group is made up of five members:

• Uncle Howdy (Bo Dallas)
• Erick Rowan (as Rambling Rabbit)
• Dexter Lumis (as Mercy the Buzzard)
• Joe Gacy (as Huskus the Pig)
• Nikki Cross (as Abby the Witch)

Each character is a real-world embodiment of the puppets from the late Bray Wyatt’s Firefly Fun House TV segments. Wyatt (the real-life brother of Bo Dallas) turned heads in WWE with his twisted creativity, and now, these puppet-inspired personas carry on his legacy, though with a far more darker tone. While Firefly Fun House had a whimsical, if unsettling, aesthetic, The Wyatt Sicks deliver a menacing vibe that leans heavily into horror, making them a perfect fit for the Halloween Horror Nights setting.

This isn’t WWE’s first brush with Halloween Horror Nights, either. Back in 2000, Halloween Horror Nights Hollywood featured a house called The Undertaker: No Mercy. Guests entered The Undertaker’s haunted funeral parlor, only to be surrounded by demonic presences. 

However, that collaboration was strictly a West Coast affair. Now, WWE is finally getting its long-overdue moment at Halloween Horror Nights on the East Coast.

Will you make it to the final bell? Find out when you visit Universal Orlando Resort’s Halloween Horror Nights, occurring on select nights from August 29 until November 2. Learn more about tickets here.

Learn more about Halloween Horror Nights in our insider’s guide, then 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 is everything we know so far about this year’s Halloween Horror Nights shows:

Nightmare Fuel: Circus of Decay

For the past four years, Halloween Nightmare Fuel has ignited the former Fear Factor Live stage with a blazing mix of fire, illusions, aerial feats, and pulse-pounding choreography. 

Now, in 2025, the saga continues with a brand-new production, set to push the limits of your imagination. Expect a new storyline, explosive energy, and dazzling aerial acts that will leave your jaw on the floor. 

Here’s what Universal Orlando Resort has revealed about this year’s Halloween Horror Nights show:

This once-vibrant circus has festered into an unending nightmare. It’s a sinister spectacle of pyro, aerialists and illusions.

Haunt-O-Phonic: A Ghoulish Journey

For the first time since 2022, the Halloween Horror Nights lagoon show returns to Universal Studios Florida. You and your scream squad will once again be able to gather around the lagoon for an immersive experience that surrounds you with the spirit (and screams) of the season.

Here’s what we know so far from Universal:

A ghost story is rising from its watery grave to haunt the Universal Studios lagoon, featuring towering water screens and eerie music.

Don’t Miss These Halloween Horror Nights 2025 Shows

From blazing stages to eerie waters, these exciting performances are the perfect complement to the event’s haunted houses and scare zones. Experience these shows and more at Halloween Horror Nights 2025, occurring on select nights from August 29 through November 2. Learn more about tickets here. 

Learn more about Halloween Horror Nights in our insider’s guide, then 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 Halloween Horror Nights 2025 Shows REVEALED appeared first on Orlando Informer.

Here’s a shriek peek of the full lineup!

The Cat Lady of Crooked Lane: This scare zone gives a whole new meaning to “cat lady.” Wrought iron gates guard the entrance to Crooked Lane, a shadowy, winding path that leads straight to her lair. Local legend whispers that she lures unsuspecting trick-or-treaters down this winding road, only to transform them into feline companions for her ever-growing collection. Enter if you dare, but don’t be surprised if you leave with a few extra lives… and a tail.

Mutations: Toxic Twenties: Trouble brews on the gritty streets of a 1920s neighborhood when a mobster escape collides (literally) with disaster. When a getaway car collides with a BuzzCon truck carrying toxic materials, it twists the town’s speakeasy spirit into pure nightmare fuel. Welcome to the roaring (and ravaged) twenties.

Masquerade: Dance with Death: You’ve received an invitation to a Halloween masquerade, an opulent affair where guests don masks inspired by legendary monsters. But as midnight draws near, the illusion begins to crumble. One by one, the masks slip off, revealing not costumes… but vampires. The feast has begun, and you’re on the menu.

The Origins of Horror: Stroll through the garden of the conservatory, where monuments pay tribute to the terrors of Halloween Horror Nights 34. Each statue stands as a preview of the nightmares that await beyond. But don’t let your guard down—massive crows circle ominously, their eyes tracking your every move. This garden isn’t just a tribute… it’s a warning.

And just when you think you’ve braved it all, Universal is raising the stakes once again. This year’s event also introduces all-new street experiences that take the horror to new heights—zombie carhops at Mel’s Die-In, undead DJs, and more sinister surprises lurking around the corner.

These scare zones also complement the array of offerings at Halloween Horror Nights, including Fallout, Five Nights at Freddy’s, and more. Check out these haunts on select nights from August 29 through November 2. Find out everything you need to know about tickets here.

Learn more about Halloween Horror Nights in our insider’s guide, then 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 Scare Zones Announced for Halloween Horror Nights 2025 appeared first on Orlando Informer.

As Orlando Informer is your trusted source for official discounted tickets, we’re here to break down everything you need to know when snagging admission for your night full of chills and thrills!

Where to Buy Discounted Howl-O-Scream Tickets

Orlando Informer offers discounts on Howl-O-Scream tickets for both SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. By purchasing your tickets through Orlando Informer, you can save up to $89 off the gate price of $122.99. That’s a deal so good, it’s scary!

Explore ticket options here.

Why Buy Howl-O-Scream Tickets Early?

Howl-O-Scream is one of Florida’s most intense Halloween events, returning in 2025 with blood-curdling haunted houses, roaming scare zones, live shows, and pulse-pounding rides in the dark. As ticket prices rise closer to the event dates, it’s crucial to buy early for the best savings.

2025 Discounted Howl-O-Scream Ticket Options

There are several types of discounted Howl-O-Scream tickets available through Orlando Informer.

SeaWorld Orlando

• SeaWorld Orlando Single Day Howl-O-Scream Ticket: Any Day – Valid for one visit on any event night between September 5 and November 1, 2025.
• SeaWorld Orlando Single Day Howl-O-Scream Ticket: Blockout Dates Apply – Valid for any night except September 6, 13, 20, 27 and October 4, 11, 18, 25, and November 1

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

• Busch Gardens Tampa Single Day Howl-O-Scream Ticket: Any Day – Valid for one visit on any Howl-O-Scream 2025 event night.
• Busch Gardens Tampa Single Day Howl-O-Scream Ticket: Blockout Dates Apply – Valid for any Thursday, Friday, or Sunday night.

Click here to explore and purchase discounted tickets for both parks.

Howl-O-Scream 2025 Event Dates

Mark your calendars! Howl-O-Scream takes place on select evenings from September 5 through early November. Here’s the full event schedule for each location:

SeaWorld Orlando Howl-O-Scream 2025 Dates

• September: 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, 27
• October: 3, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12, 16, 17, 18, 19, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
• November: 1

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Howl-O-Scream 2025 Dates

• September: 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, 27, 28
• October: 2, 3, 4, 5, 9, 10, 11, 12, 16, 17, 18, 19, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31
• November: 1, 2

What’s Included with Your Howl-O-Scream Ticket?

Your ticket grants access to haunted houses, scare zones, live entertainment, and more. SeaWorld and Busch Gardens each offer unique themes and terrifying experiences. Some attractions have already been revealed—check them out:

• SeaWorld Orlando Howl-O-Scream Guide
• Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Howl-O-Scream Guide

We’ll keep these pages updated as more experiences are announced, so be sure to bookmark them.

Don’t wait for ticket prices to rise or your preferred dates to sell out. Grab your discounted Howl-O-Scream tickets today and prepare for a night you won’t forget.

Discuss this exciting event with others on our SeaWorld Community on Facebook. 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 Crowd Calendar for September 2025

September is one of the quieter months at Universal Orlando Resort. With most kids back in school by early September, you’ll notice lighter crowds during weekdays. However, Labor Day weekend (with the holiday falling on Monday, September 1, 2025) will likely see a surge in attendance, as guests take advantage of the long weekend.

However, the biggest crowd-puller in September is Halloween Horror Nights, a separately ticketed nighttime event at Universal Studios Florida. Guests often visit the parks during the day before attending Halloween Horror Nights at night, which can slightly impact daytime crowd levels.

Pro Tip: Our free Universal Orlando Resort Crowd Calendar provides a full breakdown of expected attendance levels each day.

Events at Universal Orlando in September 2025

Halloween Horror Nights

Halloween Horror Nights 2025 runs from Friday, August 29 through Sunday, November 2, making September an ideal time to visit for fright fans. Every year, the event introduces new haunted houses, scare zones, live shows, and themed food offerings. Even if you’re only mildly curious, we strongly recommend experiencing at least one night of this legendary Halloween celebration.

Learn more about Halloween Horror Nights tickets here. 

Dead Coconut Club

Looking for a hauntingly fun experience without the frights? Dead Coconut Club is a seasonal overlay of Red Coconut Club at Universal CityWalk, transformed each fall with themed décor, music, and specialty drinks—no ticket required. It’s scheduled to be open on Halloween Horror Nights event evenings.

The 2025 theme hasn’t been revealed yet, but past iterations have been a fan-favorite spot to hang out after the parks or before Halloween Horror Nights. Stay tuned for official announcements, and in the meantime, check out last year’s Dead Coconut Club experience for an idea of what to expect.

Temporary Ride Closures & Refurbishments at Universal Orlando Resort in September 2025

Good news! As of publication, there are no scheduled ride closures or refurbishments at Universal Orlando Resort during September 2025. Things can change, so if any updates pop up, we’ll keep our Snapshot page refreshed with the latest ride closures, refurbishments, and other key happenings at Universal Orlando Resort throughout September and beyond.

Of course, last-minute attraction closures can occur due to weather and other factors, so it’s always smart to check the Universal Orlando Resort app for real-time updates during your visit.

Universal Orlando Resort Weather in September 2025

Although September signals the start of autumn elsewhere, Orlando remains hot, humid, and storm-prone during this month. While the rainy season begins to taper off, expect occasional afternoon showers and high humidity levels throughout your trip.

What to Pack:

• Lightweight, breathable clothes
• Comfortable sneakers (not flip flops)
• A poncho or compact umbrella
• Extra socks in case you get caught in the rain

For more details, check our month-by-month Orlando weather guide, where you’ll find average highs, lows, rainfall, and tips for every season.

If you’re planning your vacation to Universal Orlando Resort in September 2025, this month delivers lighter crowds, seasonal fun, and warm Florida weather. Whether you’re coming for the scares or the sunshine, there’s no shortage of thrills to enjoy!

And don’t forget: if you haven’t already, snag discounted theme park admission through Orlando Informer and save on your September 2025 Universal Orlando Resort vacation!

Learn tips and tricks from 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’s how Universal teased the nightmare to come:

Try your luck against Art the Clown in the Terrifier funhouse. You’ll witness his grotesque handiwork of torture and be exposed to the spatter of his victims. It’s a whole new level of gore!

Art the Clown first appeared on the horror scene in Damien Leone’s 2008 short film The 9th Circle. The silent, sinister killer returned in Leone’s 2011 short, simply titled Terrifier, both of which showcase Art stalking unsuspecting victims.

Producer Jesse Baget, intrigued by the potential of this character, approached Leone about including the shorts in an anthology project. Leone saw this as the perfect opportunity to take Art to the next level—and Baget agreed. Leone combined The 9th Circle, Terrifier, a newly created third segment, and never-before-seen footage to craft All Hallows’ Eve, released in 2013. This marked Art the Clown’s terrifying feature film debut.

What followed was the birth of a modern horror franchise. Art returned in Terrifier (2016), Terrifier 2 (2022), and Terrifier 3 (2024). With each film, Art’s notoriety grew, transforming him into a cult icon known for his brutal kills, uncanny silence, and maniacal grin. 

Beyond the silver screen, Art has made his way into mainstream pop culture. He appeared in the popular games Call of Duty: Warzone and Modern Warfare III. Additionally,  the heavy metal band Ice Nine Kills paid tribute to the character with their song “A Work of Art,” featured in Terrifier 3.

And now, Art’s legacy extends to a new realm—Halloween Horror Nights. Guests can come face-to-face with this Terrifier clown at Universal Orlando Resort’s Halloween Horror Nights, running select nights from August 29 through November 2. Learn more about tickets here.

Learn more about Halloween Horror Nights in our insider’s guide, then 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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When you’re heading to the park, knowing how to stay cool can make all the difference. These tips will help you beat the heat, stay safe, and enjoy every part of your visit without burning out by noon.

Start Your SeaWorld Day Early to Beat the Heat

It may seem obvious, but timing makes a huge difference. The earlier you arrive, the better. Most days, temperatures can start climbing by mid-morning and peak between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.

Use those cooler early hours to tackle outdoor thrill rides like Mako, Manta, and Pipeline: The Surf Coaster. You’ll stay ahead of the heat (and the crowds) at SeaWorld Orlando.

Cool Off Fast: Ride Infinity Falls Before Lunch

SeaWorld’s top water ride, Infinity Falls, is a must on hot days—because getting drenched is part of the fun. Riding before lunch gives you time to dry off naturally in the sun. Bonus tip: wear quick-dry clothes or pack extra socks.

Journey to Atlantis is another splash-heavy favorite, though it’s currently closed for refurbishment.

Later in the day, shift toward shows, indoor exhibits, and shaded areas to give yourself a break.

Where to Find Shade at SeaWorld Orlando

It’s not just the heat—it’s the sun that really turns up the intensity. Shade makes all the difference. While SeaWorld Orlando is fairly open, there are still plenty of cool spots to escape the rays. Even short breaks in the shade can help you reset and recharge. Seek them out—you’ll thank yourself later.

Relaxing Outdoor Shade

• Waterfront paths near the Flamingo habitat and Sky Tower
• Behind Sesame Street Land, with benches and misting fans
• Nautilus Theater garden areas are often cooler and quiet

Traveling with little ones? Head to Sesame Street Land, where you’ll find misting fans, shaded benches, and a huge water play area that’s perfect for a mid-day break.

Step Inside: SeaWorld’s Best A/C Breaks

Need serious relief from the heat? SeaWorld has several indoor and air-conditioned areas to help you cool down:

• Wild Arctic: A chilled walkthrough with belugas, walruses, and other Arctic animals
• Shark Encounter: A dark, air-conditioned tunnel beneath a massive shark tank
• Antarctica Habitat: A freezing cold penguin viewing area
• Shark’s Underwater Grill: Sit, sip, and enjoy cool air and cold drinks
• Sky Tower: A shaded ride with relaxing views and A/C
• Rotating Indoor Shows: Throughout the year, you’ll find a variety of shows available in indoor theaters

These indoor spots are perfect for catching your breath and recharging before heading back into the sun.

Cool Snacks and Cold Drinks

SeaWorld has no shortage of cold treats to help you beat the heat.

Some of the coldest treats at SeaWorld Orlando include:

• Edy’s Ice Cream Parlor: Cones, sundaes, and frozen sweetness
• Glacier Bar: Frozen drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) with shaded seating
• Rita’s Italian Ice: Located near Manta, serving Italian ice, frozen custard, and refreshing frozen drinks
• Sweet Sailin’ Candy Shop: Home of Dippin’ Dots, funnel cakes, and other frosty treats

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Cool drinks and snacks are great, but water is essential. You’ll need more than you think—especially if you’re moving between rides and shows all day. Dehydration can sneak up on you just like sunburn. You may not feel it until it’s too late. Both can be more than uncomfortable—they can be dangerous.

• Use SeaWorld’s bottle-filling stations or grab free ice water at quick-service locations
• Electrolyte drinks like Gatorade are available for purchase throughout the park
• Pro move: Freeze a water bottle the night before—it’ll stay cold for hours as it melts in your bag or stroller

Pro Tips for Visiting SeaWorld Orlando in the Summer

SeaWorld Orlando can be hot, but a little planning goes a long way. With smart choices, you can stay cool, stay safe, and make the most of your day.

• Dress smart. Quick-dry clothes help after water rides or sweaty moments.
• Protect yourself. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are non-negotiable.
• Pack extras. A cooling towel or stroller fan can be a lifesaver with kids.
• Use the app. Check wait times and map out shady or indoor stops.
• Fuel up. Consider an All-Day Dining Deal to stay fueled and shaded throughout the day.

Don’t let the Florida heat keep you from having a wonderful time at SeaWorld Orlando! Hydrate often, take breaks in the shade, and don’t be afraid to get soaked. Let the sun fuel your fun, not drain it.

Get your tickets to SeaWorld Orlando, Aquatica, and other Central Florida parks—all in one place with Orlando Informer.

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 good news? Every Universal Orlando Resort hotel is family-friendly, with immersive theming, amazing pools, and free transportation to all four parks—including Epic Universe.

But not every family needs the same thing. Some want a big space on a budget, while others want luxury perks, walkability, or extra fun beyond the parks.

Here’s how to find the best Universal hotel for families—and the right fit for yours.

Universal Endless Summer Resort – Surfside & Dockside Inn and Suites | $

Best for: Large families or budget-conscious travelers who need extra space

Family-Friendly Highlights:

• Two-bedroom suites with separate sleeping areas and kitchenette
• Surf-inspired decor and laid-back vibe
• Large pools and splash pad
• Three-meal quick service location with affordable and family-friendly dining
• On-site Starbucks and arcade

Getting to the Parks: Quick, frequent shuttle service to all Universal parks

Parent Perk: Generous space and value without the big price tag

Universal Cabana Bay Beach Resort | $

Best for: Poolside fun and Volcano Bay access

Family-Friendly Highlights:

• Two huge pools, a lazy river, and a splash pad
• A fun 1950s retro theme with bright, colorful decor
• Family suites with kitchenettes (great for snacks & easy meals)
• Bayliner Diner – A huge food court with pizza, burgers, pasta, and kid-friendly meals
• Galaxy Bowl – A full bowling alley inside the hotel!

Getting to the Parks: Short walk to Volcano Bay, longer walk to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, and shuttle buses to all the parks.

Parent Perk: Affordable suite-style rooms with extra space and kitchenettes make it easier to manage snacks, naps, and downtime, all at a price you’ll love.

Universal Stella Nova & Terra Luna Resorts | $$

Best for: Staying close to Epic Universe at a value

Family-Friendly Highlights:

• Brand-new, modern rooms with space-themed touches
• Huge pools with zero-entry zones and splash areas
• Casual dining options great for picky eaters or quick meals
• Game room and plenty of open space for kids to play
• Budget-friendly rates with the convenience of staying close

Getting to the Parks: Walk or bus to Epic Universe; free shuttles to Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay.

Parent Perk: Affordable rooms that feel luxurious and themed, close to Epic Universe.

Universal Aventura Hotel | $$

Best for: Tech-savvy families and older kids

Family-Friendly Highlights:

• Robot butlers deliver food right to your room
• In-room tablets control the TV, lights, and AC (perfect for little tech wizards)
• Massive floor-to-ceiling windows with amazing views of the theme parks and the surrounding area
• A rooftop restaurant (Bar 17 Bistro) where you can see the parks from above
• A resort-style pool with splash zones and a fire pit
• Quick-service food court (Urban Pantry) with family-friendly meal options, like burgers, sushi, and pasta
• Spacious rooms and kids suites available

Getting to the Parks: Guests can take shuttle buses to the parks or take the scenic garden walkway.

Parent Perk: It’s one of Universal’s most affordable resorts while still offering sleek, modern luxury!

Loews Sapphire Falls Resort | $$$

Best for: Caribbean charm and scenic transport

Family-Friendly Highlights:

• Huge pool with a water slide and sandy beach area
• Bright Caribbean-style decor and fun tropical touches
• Waterfalls, bridges, and fun walkways to explore
• Poolside games and activities for kids
• Amatista Cookhouse with kid-friendly menus
• Spacious rooms and suites available for larger families, including kids suites

Getting to the Parks: Water taxis and walking paths make park access easy and fun. Free shuttle buses to Epic Universe.

Parent Perk: Feels like a mini island getaway without leaving Orlando.

Loews Royal Pacific Resort | $$$$

Best for: Tropical vibes and quick park access

Family-Friendly Highlights:

• Lagoon-style pool with water play zones and bridges
• Tiki torches, tropical music, and island theming
• Islands Dining Room with kid-approved menus
• Ping Pong tournaments, Bingo, Trivia, hula hoop contests, arts and crafts, and other poolside activities
• On-site game room for post-park play
• Themed Kids’ Suites available, including Jurassic Park-themed rooms

Getting to the Parks: A short walk or scenic water taxi ride to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure; shuttle to Epic Universe.

Parent Perk: Free Express Passes at Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure are a game-changer—save time and skip lines!

Hard Rock Hotel | $$$$

Best for: Walkability to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, plus a lively, high-energy atmosphere

Family-Friendly Highlights:

• A giant beach-style pool with underwater music and a water slide
• Live music and DJ-led pool parties (kid-friendly!)
• The chance to borrow a guitar or record player for in-room jam sessions
• Velvet Bar is a fun lounge for parents to relax while kids enjoy the entertainment
• Game room for extra fun after the parks
• Larger suites available, including kids suites for families who want more space

Getting to the Parks: Guests can walk to Universal Studios in under 5 minutes or take a scenic water taxi straight to Universal CityWalk; free shuttle buses to Epic Universe.

Parent Perk: FREE Express Passes at Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure for every guest, saving money and time waiting in line.

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel | $$$$

Best for: Quiet elegance with a European twist

Family-Friendly Highlights:

• Despicable Me-themed Kids’ Suites with fun, colorful decor
• Three pools: a quiet pool, a family-friendly beach pool with a Roman aqueduct slide, and a villa pool for relaxing
• Live music in the piazza each evening
• Spacious suites perfect for families wanting more room to unwind
• Multiple restaurants with kid-friendly options and gorgeous views

Getting to the Parks: Take a scenic walk or water taxi to Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, or use free shuttles to Epic Universe and Volcano Bay.

Parent Perk: Refined luxury and Express Passes for Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure included—ideal for families who want both rest and excitement.

Universal Helios Grand Hotel | $$$$

Best for: A luxury stay inside Epic Universe

Family-Friendly Highlights:

• How to Train Your Dragon-themed Kids’ Suites for epic bedtime stories
• Resort-style pool with underwater speakers for downtime between park adventures
• Upscale dining with scenic views
• Gorgeous rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Epic Universe
• In-room tech and spacious layouts designed with families in mind

Getting to the Parks: Walk straight into Epic Universe through a private entrance; free shuttle to other Universal parks.

Parent Perk: The ultimate convenience—no commute and luxury service all in one place.

Why Staying at a Universal Orlando Resort Hotel is Perfect for Families

Choosing a Universal Orlando Resort hotel makes your vacation so much easier:

• Early Park Admission: Stay on-site and get into the parks and certain lands before the crowds.
• Convenient Transportation: Water taxis, shuttles, and walkable resorts make getting to the parks hassle-free.
• Extra Perks: Included Express Passes at select hotels, free shuttles, and resort activities make your trip smoother and more fun.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Pools, bowling alleys, and arcades add magic beyond the parks.
• Larger suites and themed Kids’ Suites available at select hotels.

No matter which Universal resort you choose, you’re in for an amazing family adventure!

Ready to book your stay? Whether you’re looking for the best Universal hotel for toddlers, a larger suite for your crew, or a premium family experience near Epic Universe, there’s a hotel designed to fit your family’s vibe.

Book your hotel and grab your park tickets here to start planning the vacation your kids will talk about for years.

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.

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Essentials to Beat the Heat at Universal’s Epic Universe

One of the simplest yet most crucial things you can do to prepare for the Florida heat is to pack smart for the day ahead.

• Bring refillable water bottles – Take advantage of the free water available at Coke Freestyle machines throughout the park.
• Pack electrolyte packets – These are great for quick hydration and can help you bounce back faster from the Florida heat.
• Don’t forget sunscreen – A must-have to protect your skin from sunburn during long days outdoors.
• Wear a hat or bring an umbrella – These offer shade from the sun and can provide cover during the frequent afternoon rain showers.
• Use a portable fan or cooling towel – Perfect for staying cool and comfortable while exploring everything Universal Epic Universe has to offer.

All of these can easily fit into a small park bag that does not take up too much room or effort to carry.

What to Wear to Stay Comfortable in the Heat

When going to a theme park, it is important to be prepared for a full day of walking and activity. Dress in lightweight, breathable clothing to stay cool and avoid heavy fabrics like jeans or hoodies, which can trap heat and become uncomfortable. Wear supportive, broken-in shoes to prevent blisters and bring an extra pair of socks in case your feet get wet or you need additional cushioning.

How to Avoid Peak Heat Times at Universal Epic Universe

Mornings and evenings are typically the coolest parts of the day, making them ideal for exploring the park. To avoid the peak heat, consider taking a break between noon and 3 p.m.

If you’re able, head back to the hotel and enjoy the pool or take a nice nap. If you are not staying on Universal property, use this time to take a lunch break somewhere cool and shaded with air conditioning. Some of our favorite dining options include The Oak and Star Tavern, Toadstool Cafe, Mead Hall, Café L’air De La Sirène, and Das Stakehaus.

Smart Ways to Take a Break from the Sun

Staying cool is key during the summer months at Universal Epic Universe—and luckily, there are plenty of fun ways to do just that! If you’re looking for a quick break from the sun, consider catching one of the incredible shows in the park. The Untrainable Dragon located in How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk and Le Cirque Arcanus in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic each offer around 20 minutes of entertainment, shade, and refreshing air conditioning.

Already seen both shows? No problem! Head to a ride with a mostly indoor queue, giving you a cool escape while you wait. Great options include Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry, Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, and Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge.

“Cool” Things to Do When It’s Hot at Universal Epic Universe

Epic Universe has some unique activities to help keep you cool during some scorching days.

In Celestial Park, kids (and kids at heart) will love Astronomica, a splash pad perfect for beating the heat while having a blast.

Over in How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, Fyre Drill is an interactive boat ride that’s sure to leave you smiling—and soaked!

Craving something refreshing? Frosty Moon has delicious ice cream soft serve options that are sure to satisfy every sweet tooth. Right next door, Celestiki offers frozen cocktails that are perfect for guests 21 and up looking to chill out in style.

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. 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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Prepare for battle—here’s how Universal described the house:

In a remote northern village, a wicked being rises from the dead with a horde of monsters. Try to escape the belly of the beast.

Gálkn, the Old Norse word for “monster,” echoes the fearsome legends of Viking lore, making it a fitting reflection of the chilling horrors that await at this year’s Halloween Horror Nights.

While you can experience the more family-friendly side of Viking life over at How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk in Epic Universe, Halloween Horror Nights offers a far grimmer glimpse into Norse legend. Back in 2019, the Vikings Undead scare zone transformed Universal Studios Florida’s Central Park into a battlefield of reanimated warriors and brutal carnage.

Witness the fury of the beasts at Halloween Horror Nights 2025, happening on select nights from August 29 through November 2. Learn more about tickets here.

Learn more about Halloween Horror Nights in our insider’s guide, then 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’s how Universal Orlando Resort set the tone: 

Welcome to your funeral, where it’s about to go from bad to worse. You’ll enter the underworld and be hunted by flesh-eaters for eternity.

A cemetery is a classic backdrop for a Halloween Horror Nights haunted house, and it’s one Universal has returned to time and time again. One especially memorable example is Graveyard Games, an original house from 2019. In this maze, rebellious teens dared to disrespect the dead by sneaking into a burial ground after dark. Their foolishness awakened vengeful spirits of all kinds, rising from crypts and tombstones to seek revenge on the living.

The house was a fan favorite, earning high praise across the board, and we even placed it third in our annual Halloween Horror Nights ranking that year.

Universal returned to the graveyard theme a few years later, in 2022, with a scare zone in the Hollywood area of Universal Studios Florida titled Graveyard: Deadly Unrest. This time, guests wandered through the paths of Nettlewoods Cemetery, where weathered tombstones and mausoleums marked the resting places of the unrestful dead.

Ready to awaken what should have stayed buried? Experience Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando Resort, running on select nights from August 29 to November 2. Learn more about tickets here.

Learn more about Halloween Horror Nights in our insider’s guide, then 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’s how Universal Orlando Resort described the experience:

You’re about to become doll-sized and be hunted by toys that have been burnt, melded and stitched together by a twisted little girl.

Dolls may seem innocent at first glance, but in the world of horror, they’re pure nightmare fuel. (Let’s not forget a certain infamous haunted doll currently touring the United States) But for longtime Halloween Horror Nights fans, one haunted house immediately springs to mind: Dollhouse of the Damned from HHN 2014.

This wasn’t your average dollhouse. It was a nightmare come to life, where every room was a twisted scene of childhood innocence gone horribly wrong. Doll parts weren’t just part of the décor—they were woven into the very fabric of the house and the scareactors themselves, from unsettling Raggedy Ann and creepy baby dolls to possessed marionettes and cracked ballerinas. These dolls weren’t waiting to be played with… they were playing with you.

Ready to play? Step into this nightmare at Halloween Horror Nights 2025, running select nights from August 29 through November 2 at Universal Orlando Resort. Learn more about tickets here.

Learn more about Halloween Horror Nights in our insider’s guide, then 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’s how Universal sets the stage for this rootin’-tootin’ nightmare:

In this Old West town, all hell is breaking loose. Red-hot lava demons are trying to possess everyone, melting everything in their path.

Does the name sound familiar? That’s likely because this haunted house appears to be inspired by one of the fictional B-movies, Hatchet and Chains: Demon Bounty Hunters, featured in Slaughter Sinema 2 at last year’s Halloween Horror Nights.

For any Halloween Horror Nights newbies out there, Slaughter Sinema first debuted in 2018, offering guests a walk-through of wild and wacky B-movie scenarios, each one a mini-house of its own, stitched together into one exciting, campy attraction. The concept was such a hit with fans that Universal brought it back in 2024 as Slaughter Sinema 2, complete with an all-new roster of flicks. Among them was Hatchet and Chains: Demon Bounty Hunters, a western-themed story following a pair of bounty hunters: one a seasoned demon slayer, the other a demon himself.

This isn’t the first time a fan-favorite short concept from Slaughter Sinema has earned a full-length haunted house. In 2019, Yeti: Terror of the Yukon sprang from the original Slaughter Sinema, and in 2022, the Meetz Meats event food stand also drew inspiration from that B-movie anthology.

And for the true Halloween Horror Nights nerds (or those about to become one), even the fictional town that houses the Slaughter Sinema theater has its own sprawling lore. Go ahead—fall down that rabbit hole. Many of us did, and it’s often where the HHN obsession begins. (Start here)

But that’s a story for another day. For now, we’re saddling up and heading into the haunted frontier when Halloween Horror Nights 2025 kicks off at Universal Orlando Resort, running select nights from August 29 through November 2. Learn more about tickets here.

Learn more about Halloween Horror Nights in our insider’s guide, then 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’s how Universal sets the scene:

In 19th-century Spain, a tortured artist moves into an isolated country manor for inspiration, but the art comes alive and possesses him. 

Face this nightmare, along with many others, including Fallout, Friday the 13th, and Five Nights at Freddy’s, when Halloween Horror Nights returns to Universal Orlando Resort, running select nights from August 29 through November 2. Learn more about tickets here.

Learn more about Halloween Horror Nights in our insider’s guide, then 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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The first and most important one is paying the full cost of admission. Side-step this mistake by snagging discounts on Busch Gardens Tampa Bay tickets from your trusted source at Orlando Informer.

Once you have your admission, let’s move on to the other ways to make your first visit as smooth as possible.

First-Time Visitor Mistake: Not Planning Your Transportation to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

It may come as a surprise that Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is about an hour or so from Orlando, Florida. If you’ve got a car, it’s an easy drive — but if you’re traveling without one, it’s important to plan ahead. Ride-share options like Uber or traditional taxis are available, but be prepared: they can get pricey. A one-way Uber for up to four passengers typically ranges from $65 to $120, not including potential surge pricing. Taxis? They can run as high as $200 one way.

Thankfully, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay offers complimentary round-trip shuttles to Orlando with Mears Transportation. In addition to being at no cost, there are convenient pick-up locations throughout the International Drive area, including from SeaWorld Orlando and the Doubletree across from Universal Orlando Resort. Just remember that there is only one pick-up and drop-off time each way, and reservations are required, which cannot be made day-of, but can be reserved well in advance.

Don’t Forget to Hydrate and Dress for the Weather

It might sound like a no-brainer, but it’s a common mistake for guests to make when visiting Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Hydration is important, especially when visiting a park that’s mostly outdoors. If you’re spending time here during the summer months, temperatures can get pretty high. The heat can take a toll and potentially put a damper on your day if you’re not careful. Our best suggestion here would be to bring a refillable water bottle to help avoid this, since there are plenty of water stations available.

On the other end of this, Florida is tropical weather at its finest as the state’s rainy season runs from May until mid-October, and tends to be unpredictable. While this offers a break from the heat, thunderstorms and downpours can derail your plans without proper preparation; there’s also the resulting humidity to consider. Here, it’s important to pay attention to the weather percentages on the day of your visit and dress in a way that’s both comfortable and suited to the day’s conditions. Packing a poncho wouldn’t hurt either.

One Common Mistake: Not Checking Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Operating Hours

Since Busch Gardens operates on seasonal hours, it’s important to check the operating times to ensure they are aligned with the date of your visit. It may seem like stating the obvious here as well, but this mistake is made all too often. Those wanting to visit during a less busy time, like early November, following the Halloween season, or January and February, may be caught off guard by the park’s limited hours.

Although it might make sense to visit the theme parks during the slower season, anyone booking their vacations during this time will want to be especially aware that Busch Gardens tends to close earlier at around 6 PM on weekdays. With this in mind, plan to head to Busch Gardens on the weekends in this time of year. While the crowds might be a little busier, the park will typically be open later.

Go During a Special Event to Maximize Your Day

Planning your visit during one of Busch Gardens’ annual events, like Howl-O-Scream or the Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival, works in your favor on a few levels: The event season typically grants those aforementioned later hours, which helps optimize your time. This is especially true when combining day admission for Busch Gardens alongside Howl-O-Scream, when many popular rides like Iron Gwazi and SheiKra will be open.

Of course, going during one of these events may mean the park may be a little busier, but it’ll be worth it. Any of Busch Gardens’ events can potentially help create those lasting memories. Aside from experiencing its attractions at night, this could also be done by catching can’t-miss live performances, and uniquely created food and beverages to partake in.

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 Busch Gardens Tampa Bay for First-Timers: 4 Mistakes to Avoid appeared first on Orlando Informer.

Quick note: on the menus, a double leaf icon means the item is vegan, while a single leaf icon indicates it’s vegetarian. Still not sure? Ask a Team Member. They can let you know if a dish can be modified to suit vegan or vegetarian preferences.

Pro tip: bookmark this page now for easy access when you’re roaming the park. To make exploring even easier, we’ve added handy links below so you can skip straight to the section you want, whenever you need it.

With that, let’s dig in!

Skip to: Celestial Park | SUPER NINTENDO WORLD | Dark Universe | Wizarding World | How to Train Your Dragon

Vegan and Vegetarian Food in Celestial Park at Epic Universe

Celestial Park, the main hub of Epic Universe, has quite a few dining options that are sure to satisfy, especially for our vegetarian and plant-based friends.

Pizza Moon

A very popular star in the constellation of Celestial Park is Pizza Moon. Believe me when I tell you, this is not your ordinary pizza place. Each pie is perfectly portioned for one, but with so many tempting options on the menu, sharing is definitely the way to go if you want to sample more than one flavor.

The vegan option at Pizza Moon is the Harvest Moon — a truly appetizing choice. It features a tomato sauce base topped with grilled artichokes, Divina tomatoes, roasted peppers, Castelvetrano olives, and a handful of fresh arugula. Simply divine!

For our vegetarian travelers, there are a few heavenly options — including my personal favorite so far, The Giant Mushroom. This flavorful pie features roasted garlic béchamel, fromage de lune, wild mushrooms, truffle aioli, and parsley.

Another standout is The Nanarossa, Pizza Moon’s take on a classic Margherita. It’s made with a tomato sauce base, fresh mozzarella, stracciatella, heirloom tomatoes, and fresh basil.

If pasta is more your thing, check out this vegetarian-friendly offering: Pink Moon alla Vodka. It includes a unique pasta, cheese-stuffed Triangoletti, with a spicy tomato cream sauce and topped with fromage de lune. If you’re a cheese lover like I am, this is sure to be a favorite!

Looking for something on the lighter side? Vegetarians can also enjoy the crisp and refreshing Moon Cheese Caesar Salad, featuring chopped romaine, crunchy Moon Cheese, Caesar dressing, and grated Parmesan.

Last but not least is the fruit-forward Lunar Phase Cake, a delightful dessert featuring Meyer lemon olive oil cake, a splash of limoncello, juicy blackberries, and crunchy raspberry crisps.

Meteor Astropub

For another quick-service bite in Celestial Park, Meteor Astropub is a stellar choice. Beer lovers will appreciate the impressive drink selection, and the vegan and vegetarian offerings are just as noteworthy.

Vegan selections include the handheld Vegan Sausage and Peppers, including plant-based sausage, pepperonata, basil aioli, and arugula on a toasted roll. Other vegan options include the wasabi pub fries, regular pub fries, and a side salad.

For our vegetarian friends, check out the Grilled Fourmaggio. The most out-of-this-world grilled cheese sandwich you’ll ever have, with sharp cheddar, smoked cheddar, basil goat cheese, and American cheese with a side of tomato bisque.

Vegetarians can also enjoy the dessert menu, including the Astronomer’s Shortcake Skillet, which features delicious strawberry ice cream, a warm biscuit, and strawberry and cream crumbs. Also, don’t miss the Atlas’ Chocolate Cake, which combines marshmallow fluff, chocolate cream, toasted almonds, and whipped topping.

Oak & Star Tavern

Next up is Oak & Star Tavern, a quick-service spot known for its mouthwatering BBQ. But don’t worry — even if you’re skipping the meat, there are some delicious vegan and vegetarian options here that are sure to satisfy your taste buds!

Nothing starts a good day at the parks like a filling breakfast. Vegan and vegetarian diners can begin their day off right with the Ancient Grain Tofu Scramble, which includes ancient grains, tomato pepper stew, tofu, and arugula. Craving a nice, crispy piece of bacon? They’ve got you covered with a vegan bacon side that hits the spot!

For lunch, we have a mouthwatering BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich with four-hour-smoked jackfruit, pickled red onions, and chimichurri on a toasted bun! If you want some sides, Oak & Star also offers braised greens, tropical coleslaw, mango bread, BBQ crinkle fries, smoked Harissa cauliflower, and for vegetarians, the three-cheese mac and cheese.

Looking for something fresh? The Grilled Peach Arugula Salad is a vibrant choice for vegetarians. Plus, when it’s time for dessert, don’t miss the creamy Banana Pudding or the indulgent Warm Sticky Cake, perfectly paired with pecan ice cream for a sweet finish.

Frosty Moon

Never fear, vegan travelers—you have options for dessert as well! Head over to Frosty Moon, where you can indulge in a vegan chocolate chip cookie and a vegan vanilla ice cream! Each guest can pick an ice cream flavor and two toppings. Vegetarians can try it all, but the vegan toppings include Oreo crumble and birthday sprinkles.

Comet Dogs

One of the smaller food stands in Celestial Park, Comet Dogs, is easy to overlook — but don’t pass it by! They offer a tasty vegan- and vegetarian-friendly option: the Smoky Carrot Dog. It’s a tantalizing slow-roasted glazed carrot with vegan feta and microgreens inside of a cosmic purple ube bun!

Atlantic

Now let’s explore the full-service dining options in Celestial Park, starting with Atlantic. This gorgeous Victorian-style eatery nestled in the heart of Epic Universe offers some of the best views of the lagoon, Universal Helios Grand Hotel, and the surrounding Celestial Park.

For starters, vegans and vegetarians can enjoy the King Oyster Mushroom Ceviche. This sans-seafood offering has all the refreshing flavors of ceviche, but with king oyster mushrooms. The dish is rounded out with tomato, jicama, and lime.

The soup and salad menu is packed with vegetarian-friendly choices — cool, crisp, and full of flavor! If you’re looking for a vegan version, be sure to ask a Team Member if modifications can be made to accommodate your needs. Here are a few standout salads to check out:

• House Seasonal Salad: A mix of baby beets, goat cheese, frisée, peach oat crumble, and blood orange vinaigrette.
• Hearts of Palm Caesar Salad: Cool romaine, parmesan crisps, hearts of palm, crunchy focaccia croutons, and a parmesan black pepper dressing.
• Tomato Burrata Salad: Two of my favorite ingredients in one delicious dish: ripe heirloom tomatoes and creamy burrata, paired with arugula and a white balsamic dressing.

Prefer a bowl of soup? Check out the Sweet Corn Chowder featuring sweet Florida-grown corn, celery root, potatoes, Sweety Drop Peppers, and baby basil.

As if those options weren’t tempting enough, let’s move on to the entrées!

For vegans and vegetarians alike, you are in for a treat with the Romesco Romanesco. This dish stars the visually stunning, fractal-shaped Romanesco broccoli, oven-roasted to perfection and served with hazelnut romesco sauce, fregola, wild mushrooms, and delicate pea tendrils.

Here, vegetarian guests have plenty of irresistible desserts to choose from.

Try the Piña Colada Panna Cotta, a tropical delight made with coconut panna cotta, Malibu rum–marinated pineapple, and topped with a light coconut meringue.

Or indulge in El Pulpo, a rich and creamy cheesecake paired with berry espuma, pistachio sponge cake, graham cracker crumble, fresh raspberries, and a swirl of raspberry gel.

Diners can also enjoy the unique Passion Fruit “Caviar” — don’t worry, the caviar is made entirely from passion fruit! This inventive dessert features chocolate pain de gênes, hazelnut crunch, Jivara mousse, and the bright, fruit-forward passion fruit caviar.

And last but not least, the Landlubber’s Snickerdoodle Loot. This treasure includes Snickerdoodle cake, cookie butter ganache, and Biscoff sand. Yarr!

The Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant

What is sure to be one of the most popular eateries in Celestial Park and maybe all of Epic Universe is this incredible full-service restaurant. Located at the edge of Celestial Park, right in front of the stunning Universal Helios Grand Hotel, The Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant is hard to miss, with its magnificent blue dragon entryway inviting guests inside. Once you step through, you’ll find a delicious menu filled with Chinese, Japanese, and Thai-inspired cuisine. Vegan and vegetarian travelers will also be pleased to discover a variety of thoughtfully crafted dishes just for them.

Starting with the small plates, vegans can enjoy the Smashed Cucumbers, which are actually more sliced than smashed, but these refreshing cucumbers are tossed with a dragon sauce, topped with fresh cilantro and peanuts, and a touch of Sichuan dust to round it all out.

Love those flavors, but craving noodles too? Go for the Cold Noodles dish! It features the same deliciously dressed cucumbers and toppings, served over a bed of chilled noodles — a perfect, cooling option for a hot day in the parks.

From the dim sum menu, check out the Vegetable Spring Roll, which includes fresh veggies and a house-made dipping sauce!

For the big plates section, Blue Dragon offers a vegan-friendly option called Kai-Ming’s Mapu Tofu. This satisfying dish has vegan ground pork and Sichuan chili crisp sauce served with fluffy white rice.

Don’t forget dessert! Vegetarians can enjoy just about everything on the menu including the Kaffir Lime Rice Pudding with mango and toasted sesame seeds over sesame ice cream. Also available is the Banana Napoleon with miso butterscotch bananas, 5 spice wontons, and vanilla ice cream. And last but not least, Passion Fruit Mooncake. This special treat includes creamy passionfruit cheesecake, dragon crust, mango, and tangy passionfruit!

Vegan and Vegetarian Food in Epic Universe’s SUPER NINTENDO WORLD

“Here we go” over to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD! SUPER NINTENDO WORLD is probably the most immersive and interactive world in all of Epic Universe, but how do the snacks add up? Good news! The attention to detail Nintendo affords to the park also holds true for the food offered throughout SUPER NINTENDO WORLD. The vegan and vegetarian food here is truly a game-changer!

Toadstool Cafe

First stop: Toadstool Cafe, where Chef Toad has you covered! This quick-service spot is packed with whimsical treats that are just as fun to look at as they are to eat.

Vegans can kick things off with the Super Mushroom Soup — a rich and creamy mushroom blend served with adorable Super Mushroom–shaped crackers. Vegetarians can get started with the Toadstool Cheesy Garlic Knots, a savory favorite that’s perfect for sharing (or not — we won’t judge!).

Next up, for our vegetarian players is the Piranha Plant Caprese salad. This salad, featuring tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, asparagus, and fresh basil pesto with mixed greens and apple vinaigrette, is sure to be a refreshing treat before you go play all the fun games throughout SUPER NINTENDO WORLD.

One of the standout entrées comes from the kids’ menu — the Power-Up Spaghetti Marinara — and trust us, adults will want in on this one too! Far from your average bowl of spaghetti, this fun and flavorful dish is topped with Power-Up parmesan crisps, served with a Toadstool cheesy garlic knot, and finished off with a delightful coin cookie. It’s a crowd-pleaser for all ages!

For dessert, we have the ? Block Tiramisu. This adorable dessert comes in a ? Block, just like the ones you’ll spot throughout the realm. Inside, you’ll find coffee-soaked ladyfingers topped with a dusting of cocoa powder and finished with a chocolate Power-Up mushroom. Wahoo!

There is also the Mt. Beanpole Cake, which is just as cute as the tiramisu. Vegetarians can enjoy this layered cake topped with matcha mousse, and a chocolate Super Star.

Lastly, the real highlight of the dessert selections is Princess Peach’s Birthday Cake. This festive sweet treat is a delicious yellow cake, topped with whipped topping, raspberries, mango, sprinkles, star chocolates, and a Princess Peach cookie! This dessert is easily big enough to share.

Yoshi’s Snack Island

It wouldn’t be SUPER NINTENDO WORLD without Yoshi, who has his own snack stand called Yoshi’s Snack Island. This small but worth it quick-service eatery is not one to miss. Yoshi’s Smoothie is bound to energize our vegetarian friends! It has a Granny Smith apple flavor, a sweet honeydew syrup with milk, and is topped with whipped cream and bursting boba. Prefer something tropical? There’s a mango version too!

For our plant-based friends, we have the Green Shell Calzone! This hearty calzone is stuffed with vegan Italian sausage, marinara sauce, and vegan mozzarella cheese.

The Bubbly Barrel

One more treat for our vegetarian friends is over at The Bubbly Barrel, which, as you might guess, is located in the Donkey Kong Country Area of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD. The DK Crush Float packs as big of a punch as Donkey Kong himself! This banana pineapple soft serve float with pineapple soda also includes a waffle bowl, toffee pieces, and caramel popcorn. Want to level up? You can also order the DK Crush Float in a collectible souvenir barrel mug!

Vegan and Vegetarian Food in Epic Universe’s Dark Universe

Quite the change from the bright and cheery SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, we have the home of the monsters that started it all, Dark Universe. As you step through the portal and enter the village of Darkmoor, the eerie ambiance is something to behold both day and night. The spine-tingling creativity you see throughout Darkmoor is also reflected in the unique and sometimes macabre dishes. Best of all, vegan and vegetarian travelers get to join in fun as well.

De Lacey’s Cottage

Let’s start with the snack options — beginning at De Lacey’s Cottage, the spot where, in Universal Monsters lore, Frankenstein’s monster experiences his first glimpse of kindness and comfort.

At this quick-service stand, you can experience the same with the Warm Hearted Cinnamon Bites, which are cinnamon and sugar donut pieces served with cream cheese icing and streusel! Our vegetarian friends can also enjoy the Frank & Friends Pretzel served with white cheese.

Burning Blade Tavern

For something a little more filling, try the handheld options at The Burning Blade Tavern, one of the many iconic structures in Darkmoor. Vegetarian options include the Hunter’s Garlic Stake, a crispy garlic butter pretzel with garlic dipping sauce. Certain to keep Dracula away!

Another great snack is the Burning Cheddar Bites, fried cheese poppers with a side of sriracha ranch.

Das Stakehaus

Last but not least is my favorite spot in Darkmoor: Das Stakehaus. From the name and design to the menu itself, this place is a must-visit for fans of the original Universal Monsters. While nothing can truly replace the former Universal Studios’ Classic Monsters Café from Universal Studios Florida, Das Stakehaus mostly makes up for its absence… mostly.

At Das Stakehaus, vegan diners can sink their teeth into Our Favorite Vegan Familiar’s Stuffed Cabbage—cabbage filled with Impossible meat, and served with beet bucatini in a bell pepper tomato sauce.

There is also a selection of vegan and vegetarian sides, including fries, grapes, and slaw, but let’s talk about dessert. Don’t miss the Red Velvet Death, a red velvet heart “beet” coffin cake topped with chocolate crumbs and puffed rice “maggots.” It’s the perfect treat for visiting monsters!

After you eat, be sure to walk around the restaurant to take in all the grim and creepy art and artifacts. Das Stakehaus is a feast for the eyes as well as the palate! Take a bite!

Vegan and Vegetarian Food in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic at Epic Universe

For our next journey, grab some floo powder, and before you know it, we find ourselves in 1920s Paris! Known worldwide for its culinary excellence, this iconic city has been beautifully brought to life in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, capturing all the elegance, charm, and flavor in true magical style.

Café L’air De La Sirène

First stop is the Café L’air De La Sirène. Fans of the Fantastic Beasts franchise will appreciate seeing some familiar creatures woven into the tile designs inside the cafe.

For a rich and delicious meal, vegan visitors have two delectable options. First, the Cassoulet Végétalien aux Haricots Blancs. A hearty stew with cannellini beans, vegan sausage, vegan bacon, trumpet mushrooms, carrots, and tomatoes, topped with baguette croutons. And if you want something a little more delicate, but just as delicious, check out the Baguette Ratatouille Provençale, featuring roasted tomatoes, zucchini, squash, and eggplant, topped with pickled red onions and arugula, drizzled with basil pistou, served in a warm, crusty baguette. Bon appétit!

Vegetarian guests also have some appetizing dishes to choose from, starting with the Oeufs en Cocotte, poached eggs, mornay sauce, gruyere cheese mashed potatoes, toasted baguette, and a side of seasonal berries with lavender honey. It doesn’t get more Parisian than that… unless we’re talking about crêpes!

The crêpes stand at Universal Studios Florida is incredibly popular for good reason, but these crêpes take things to a whole new level! You have two to choose from: the Crêpe Citronnée aux Chambord, with lemon cream cheese, Chambord sauce, and fresh berries, and the Bieraubeurre Crêpe featuring shortbread cookie, butter Bavarian cream, Bieraubeurre cream, strawberries, Bieraubeurre drizzle, and shortbread cookie garnish. That’s right friends, we now have a Butterbeer crepe! If you are a fan of the other Butterbeer offerings in the various Wizarding World locations, this is a MUST try!

If you’re craving a sweet bakery treat, vegetarian guests have plenty to choose from — including the croissant, almondine, cinnamon brioche, and pain au chocolat. Prefer something savory? Try the Galette de Tomates et Fromage, a butter pastry filled with roasted tomato, soubise, and goat cheese.

And last but certainly not least, one of my personal favorites, a classic Crème Brûlée. This indulgent dessert features smooth vanilla custard, a crisp layer of caramelized sugar, and a topping of fresh berries.

Le Gobelet Noir

Next up in our culinary adventure is Le Gobelet Noir. This quick-service establishment belongs to a character you’ve heard tell of, Nicolas Flamel, the creator of the Sorcerer’s Stone! This is another fun restaurant to look around and spy various Easter Eggs from the Wizarding World. But let’s get to their vegan and vegetarian offerings.

Vegans can try out the Ancient Forest Salad, featuring a medley of greens and vegetables topped with an herb vinaigrette. For something more hearty, the Lentil Stew is sure to please! This rich dish contains lentils, vegan bacon, and root vegetables alongside artisan bread! Perfect for a chilly fall or winter day.

Accio dessert! At Le Gobelet Noir, plant-based guests can indulge in baklava made with pistachios, walnuts, vegan anglaise, and coconut nectar.

And just like in the other Wizarding World locations, there’s a trusty Butterbeer cart nearby. Good news for our plant-based pals: a vegan, non-dairy version is available, so everyone can enjoy a taste of the magic!

Vegan and Vegetarian Food in Epic Universe’s How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk

Last but not least, we leave the Wizarding World and head to another world full of magical creatures—dragons! How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk is home to some of the most beloved characters in Epic Universe, including Hiccup, Astrid, and everybody’s favorite dragon, Toothless. And as we know from the movies, they know how to eat! Fortunately, they haven’t forgotten their vegan and vegetarian guests — everyone’s invited to the table!

Mead Hall

Mead Hall is a quick-service restaurant, and another fun place to explore as you dine. You might not think this Viking establishment would have much in the way for vegans and vegetarians, and you would be wrong!

The Nordic Harvest Salad featuring a generous mix of greens and hearty grains, blueberries, radishes, apples, and trail mix, topped with a raspberry walnut vinaigrette, is sure to satisfy ANY appetite!

If you’re looking for a hefty handheld, though, you can’t go wrong with Valka’s Vegan Burger. This patty is made from ancient grains, with mushrooms, leeks, smoked berry aioli, and arugula sandwiched in a pumpernickel Kaiser bun and served with Nordic fries.

For dessert, you might not think fish would have a place on the menu, but for our vegetarian friends, you can check out Stormfly’s Catch of the Day! This cereal crumble and chocolate mousse fish is just as fun to look at as it is to eat.

Spit Fyre Grill

Spit Fyre Grill has another vegan offering that is sure to please. Valka’s Vegan Bowl is filled with kale spring mix, bean salad, pineapple salsa, candy beets, vegan feta, and mango and mint vinaigrette. It’s a nice, refreshing treat to have while you sit in the seating area overlooking the Fyre Drill boat ride!

Hooligan’s Grog & Gruel

Last but not least, we need to talk about Hooligan’s Grog & Gruel. This quick-service stand is THE place to check out in Isle of Berk. Known for its wildly popular handheld cones, this spot is home to one of the park’s favorite snacks. The Goldfish Mac and Cheese is the vegetarian-friendly option, and it’s a total crowd-pleaser! Savory mac and cheese with Goldfish served in a crispy bread cone. Do not sleep on this one-of-a-kind creation!

Whew, what a ride! From savory snacks to full-on feasts, Universal Epic Universe truly goes above and beyond in serving up delicious food for vegan and vegetarian visitors. Whether you’re plant-based by choice or just curious to explore, there’s a world of flavor waiting for 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. 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.

Important information for guests with any dietary needs and allergy concerns: please speak with an allergy-trained team member upon arriving at any restaurant. A Universal Orlando team member will be happy to come out to discuss your specific situation to ensure you receive the most up-to-date and location-specific offerings. Some items may be able to be modified.

The restaurants at Universal Orlando Resort are not allergen-free environments. We make every effort to provide complete and current information; however, due to the handcrafted nature of the menu items and variations in vendor-supplied ingredients, Universal cannot make a guarantee regarding the allergen content of any menu item. Guests with a special food sensitivity or dietary need should not rely solely on this information as a basis for deciding whether to consume a particular menu item and are responsible for ensuring any such menu item meets their individual dietary requirements.

The post Vegan & Vegetarian Food at Universal Epic Universe: What to Eat appeared first on Orlando Informer.

Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar for August 2025

As families squeeze in one last summer getaway before the school year kicks off, the parks remain consistently busy throughout the month. Add in the start of Halloween Horror Nights and the approach of Labor Day weekend, and it’s no surprise that crowds are sticking around.

And this year, there’s even more reason for the excitement! Epic Universe, Universal’s newest theme park, just opened in May, and guests are still flocking to be among the first to experience it. 

But don’t let the crowds surprise you! Plan like a pro with our Universal Orlando Resort Crowd Calendar, which breaks down what to expect day by day so you can make the most of your visit.

Events at Universal Orlando in August 2025: What’s Happening During Your Visit

Meet the Stars of Wicked

Before Dorothy dropped in, there were Elphaba and Glinda—and now’s your chance to meet them in person! Step into the land of Oz at Universal Studios Florida’s Wicked: The Experience, where these witches are greeting guests daily through August 10. Entertainment subject to change. 

CityWalk Summer Music Series

CityWalk is turning up the volume with its Summer Music Series, offering live themed performances under the stars:

• Broadway Night – August 2: Enjoy show-stopping performances straight from the Great White Way.
• Motown Night – August 9: Smooth soul and timeless grooves await!

Both events take place on the Waterfront Stage, and they’re free to enjoy!

Jamaican Independence Day

On August 9, CityWalk’s Bob Marley – A Tribute to Freedom honors Jamaican Independence Day with live performances and exclusive food and drink available for purchase.

Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit Farewell

It’s your final opportunity to pick your song and take one more adrenaline-fueled ride. Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit is rolling into retirement, with its last day set for August 18. Ride it while you can—because when the curtain drops, it’s gone for good.

Halloween Horror Nights 2025

Halloween Horror Nights kicks off on August 29 with blood-curdling thrills, haunted houses, pulse-pounding scare zones, and more! This fan-favorite fright fest runs on select nights, so grab your discounted tickets early and prepare to be terrified (in the best way possible).

Temporary Ride Closures & Refurbishments at Universal Orlando Resort in August 2025

Over at Islands of Adventure, Skull Island: Reign of Kong will be temporarily closed for maintenance from August 20 through August 29.

Things can shift quickly in the theme park world, so we’ll keep our Snapshot page up to date with the latest on ride closures, refurbishments, and anything else you need to know during your visit to Universal Orlando Resort this month and beyond.

Keep in mind that weather and other factors can cause last-minute closures. To stay ahead of the game, check the Universal Orlando Resort app for the most up-to-date ride info during your visit. Trust us—being in the know makes your day smoother (and way more fun)!

Universal Orlando Resort Weather in August 2025 & What to Wear to Beat the Heat

August may mark the back-to-school season for many, but in Orlando, summer is far from over. It’s one of the hottest and muggiest months of the year in the Sunshine State. And don’t count on evening relief—the humidity sticks around long after the sun goes down. Thankfully, those predictable afternoon thunderstorms help cool things off… at least for a bit.

When you’re spending a full day at the parks in this kind of weather, comfort is key:

• Go lightweight and breathable: Loose, moisture-wicking clothes are your best friend.
• Sneakers over flip-flops: You’ll be walking miles and dodging afternoon downpours. Wet walkways and soggy flip-flops are a blister just waiting to happen.
• Sun protection is essential: Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen (and reapply often)!
• Prepare for rain: Afternoon storms are common, so keep a poncho or compact umbrella in your bag.
• Pack backup socks: Trust us, a dry pair can be a lifesaver after a soggy rain shower.

Check out our full Universal Orlando Resort weather guide, featuring average temperatures, record highs and lows, and monthly weather trends—including August, and every other month of the year.

August 2025 is shaping up to be an unforgettable time at Universal Orlando Resort! Beat the heat, plan for the crowds, and stay in the know so you can soak up every moment. Have fun out there!

And don’t forget: if you haven’t already, snag discounted theme park admission through Orlando Informer and save on your August 2025 Universal Orlando Resort vacation!

Learn tips and tricks from 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 Universal Orlando in August 2025: Events, Crowds, Weather & More appeared first on Orlando Informer.

Here’s how Universal Orlando Resort teased the comeback:

The iconic horror villain Jason Voorhees is coming for you. Step into his terrifying world, from his sinister shack in the woods to the summer camp where it all began.

The story began with the original Friday the 13th film in 1980. Set in the seemingly tranquil Camp Crystal Lake in 1958, just one year after a camper mysteriously drowned, tragedy strikes again. Camp counselors are picked off one by one, and the killer is ultimately revealed to be the drowned camper’s grief-stricken mother, seeking revenge for her son’s tragic fate. 

That boy? Jason Voorhees—who, as we come to find out, survived the accident and would go on to unleash decades of terror. With his signature hockey mask and machete in hand, Jason turns Camp Crystal Lake into his personal hunting ground, returning again and again.

Now celebrating 45 years of mayhem, Friday the 13th has grown into a sprawling horror empire. With 12 films, a television prequel series (expected around Halloween 2025), novels, comic books, video games, and more, the franchise has carved a permanent place in pop culture. It’s almost impossible to look at a hockey mask without thinking of Jason Voorhees.

Jason Voorhees has haunted Halloween Horror Nights since 1992. He first appeared in Bill & Ted’s Excellent Halloween Adventure, and again the following year in its sequel, Bill and Ted’s Excellent Halloween Adventure II. Over the years, Jason was seen in multiple haunted houses, but in 2007, he finally got his own dedicated experience with Friday the 13th: Camp Blood.

He resurfaced in 2015 in the Freddy vs. Jason house, a crossover inspired by both Friday the 13th and A Nightmare on Elm Street. That same year, he also stalked the streets of San Francisco in the All Nite Die-In: Double Feature scare zone, surrounded by other cinematic monsters.

Now, ten years later, Jason Voorhees is back once more, ready to terrify a whole new generation in a brand-new, dedicated house. Experience it for yourself during Halloween Horror Nights, occurring on select nights from August 29 to November 2. Learn more about tickets here.

Learn more about Halloween Horror Nights in our insider’s guide, then 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 Friday the 13th Announced for Halloween Horror Nights 2025 appeared first on Orlando Informer.

Whether you’re craving heart-pounding experiences or something more family-friendly, Epic Universe delivers.

Universal Epic Universe Coasters: From Chaotic Carts to Celestial Speed

Ranking the coasters at Epic Universe wasn’t easy—they each bring something unique to the track—but we took on the challenge! If you’re short on time or want to know what to ride first at Epic Universe, here’s how we’d rank this park’s four roller coasters.

#4 | Mine Cart Madness (SUPER NINTENDO WORLD)

Vibe: Chaotic, creative, and full of nostalgia

Looking for a coaster that’s approachable for all ages at Epic Universe? This is a great one to start with.

Mine Cart Madness takes you deep into Donkey Kong Country on a ride full of jumps, surprises, and just the right amount of chaos. The “invisible track” tech makes you feel like you’re leaping across broken rails, and the queue is a nostalgic dream for Nintendo fans. Adorable animatronics and splashy surprises make it a must-ride.

Why It’s Great:

• Unique jumping track technology
• Wild, bouncy ride energy
• Incredibly detailed theming from start to finish
• Super cool queue!

#3 | Curse of the Werewolf (Dark Universe)

Vibe: Shadowy, spellbound, and unpredictably fun

Don’t underestimate this one. Curse of the Werewolf isn’t the biggest coaster in Epic Universe, but it delivers style, speed, and eerie surprises. The way your car spins changes what you see—so each ride gives you different glimpses of the surrounding Darkmoor village, and of the werewolf lurking in the shadows. That re-rideability, paired with fast turns and atmospheric detail, makes it a standout.

Why It’s Great:

• Quick launch and unpredictable spins
• Enchanting theming with a classic creature twist
• Different views and moments every time you ride

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

Vibe: Joyful, beautiful, and full of heart

Hiccup’s Wing Gliders is a smooth, soaring experience that feels more like flying than coasting.

Set against the sweeping cliffs of Berk, this story coaster delivers an enchanting narrative and richly immersive theming. You’re not just riding a dragon—you’re part of this world. With stunning views, gentle thrills, and happy surprises throughout, it’s fun, easy to enjoy again and again, and one of the most universally loved coasters in the park. This one’s likely to rank highest for those who appreciate the ride without the rush.

Why It’s Great:

• Smooth and immersive flying sensation
• Breathtaking views of the land
• Enchanting, story-driven ride experience
• Appeals to all ages
• Easy to ride again—and you’ll want to!

#1 | Stardust Racers (Celestial Park)

Vibe: Celestial, fast, and full of air-time

Stardust Racers isn’t just big—it’s the longest coaster ever built by Universal Orlando Resort and the crown jewel of Epic Universe. With speeds of 62 mph and heights up to 133 feet, it’s easily the most intense ride at Epic Universe and, in our opinion, the best. This dual-track coaster launches you into a high-speed race across the stars, with wild airtime, smooth inversions, and stunning visuals. Each side of the track feels unique, and the night lighting is especially spectacular. It’s fast, thrilling, and unforgettable.

Why It’s Great:

• Dual-track racing and near-miss moments
• Massive airtime hills
• Cosmic visuals and sleek theming
• Amazing lighting at night

Which Epic Universe Coaster Should You Ride First?

There’s no wrong answer when it comes to the coasters at Universal Epic Universe. Your favorite might depend on your thrill threshold, who you’re riding with, or what kind of experience you want that day.

• Stardust Racers is perfect for adrenaline chasers and coaster enthusiasts.
• Hiccup’s Wing Gliders is a go-to for families, first-timers, and anyone who wants a joyful ride.
• Curse of the Werewolf is great for adventurous children, monster fans, and guests who love a little mystic flair.
• Mine Cart Madness is fast, bouncy chaos with a heavy dose of nostalgia—ideal for Nintendo lovers.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or visiting with kids, there’s a roller coaster in Epic Universe for you. And with each one set in a fully themed realm, the experience goes far beyond just the ride.

Start planning your visit to Epic Universe today with discounted admission to Universal Orlando Resort theme parks, available through Orlando Informer.

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.

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Before we start planning your weekend at SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, let’s talk tickets. The best way to start? Snag a multi-park ticket that gets you into both parks—and save while you’re at it with discounts from your trusted friends at Orlando Informer.

Now then, let’s get into the fun stuff.

Transportation Options to Visit SeaWorld and Busch Gardens in One Weekend

With park admission out of the way, the next step is figuring out Orlando’s transportation options, especially when it comes to SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Of course, there’s always the option of ride-share services as they’re plentiful in our city.

It’s also worth checking if your hotel of choice offers complimentary transportation. Similar to other theme parks, the closer you stay to SeaWorld Orlando, the better the chances are that hotels in the area do.

On the other hand, Busch Gardens may not be as easy, given Tampa’s distance from Orlando and the possible traffic when driving there. Thankfully, there is free transportation for ticket holders from select points throughout Orlando, including a pick-up time from SeaWorld Orlando. It’s important to know that this option does require reservations, and the shuttle may need to make some stops along the way. However, those reservations can be made well in advance, and the shuttles typically still only take one to two hours to get to Busch Gardens.

Why You Should Plan a Separate Day for Each Park

When it comes to experiencing SeaWorld and Busch Gardens, it’s best to dedicate a full day to each park. This gives you ample time to account for transportation between the two cities and align with each park’s hours of operation. This is especially important for Busch Gardens, as travel time from Orlando—whether by car, shuttle, or ride-share—can take a bit longer, and the park often operates on a shorter schedule than SeaWorld.

If you can, try to plan your visit during one of SeaWorld and Busch Gardens’ year-round events. Yes, it may mean an increase in crowds, making it busier than usual, but events like Howl-O-Scream and SeaWorld’s Seven Seas Food Festival can grant extended operating hours, thereby maximizing the amount of time you have to enjoy the parks.

Enhance Your Weekend at SeaWorld and Busch Gardens

SeaWorld and Busch Gardens have a variety of ways to make the most of any visit to their parks. When it comes to maximizing your time, the best option to see everything is by upgrading your admission with a Quick Queue Unlimited Pass. This grants the leisure of unlimited, front-of-the-line access to each participating attraction. These attractions include Manta and Mako at SeaWorld Orlando, and roller coasters at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, like Cheetah Hunt and SheiKra.

Of course, combining the admission with an All-Day Dining Plan can also save you money on dining at SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. You can also enhance your visit with a variety of behind-the-scenes tours, offering exclusive access and unique experiences that go beyond the typical day in the park. These add-ons are perfect for anyone looking to create unforgettable memories and take their adventure to the next level.

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’s how Universal describes this experience:

Face your fears in post-apocalyptic LA, devastated by nuclear war, based on the hit show and game franchise “Fallout.” You’ll travel into the vaults and be attacked by raiders alongside Lucy. You’ll escape to the wasteland and confront the bounty hunter, The Ghoul. You’ll even encounter Maximus with the Brotherhood of Steel and see T-60 power armor.

The Fallout franchise got its start back in 1997 with the release of the very first game, a post-apocalyptic role-playing adventure set in a world ravaged by nuclear war. Players emerged from underground vaults into a harsh wasteland, facing off against mutants, scavenging for supplies, and navigating the remnants of a shattered civilization. The game was a critical and commercial hit, breathing new life into the RPG genre and earning widespread acclaim for its innovative gameplay.

That initial success paved the way for a sprawling franchise of sequels and spin-offs. Its influence reached far beyond gaming, thanks in large part to its mascot: Vault Boy. With his cartoon look, blue jumpsuit, and thumbs-up pose, Vault Boy became a cultural symbol. (Fun fact: Time Magazine once ranked him the third most influential video game character of all time.)

Fallout’s impact has seeped into games like Fortnite, Magic: The Gathering, Call of Duty, and Super Smash Bros. And in 2024, Fallout leapt from consoles to the small screen with an Amazon Prime series starring Ella Purnell and Walton Goggins, further cementing Fallout’s place in pop culture history.

Are you ready to face what lurks in the Wasteland? Find out during Halloween Horror Nights, occurring on select nights from August 29 to November 2. Learn more about tickets here.

Learn more about Halloween Horror Nights in our insider’s guide, then 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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Top Things to Do and Eat in Epic Universe’s Celestial Park

As you enter Epic Universe, you’re immediately transported to Celestial Park, the heart of the entire theme park. This lush, dreamy landscape is alive with flowing fountains, captivating music, tempting bites, and refreshing sips. Plus, this is the home to arguably one of the best roller coasters Universal has created to date: Stardust Racers. This attraction is a thrilling, dual-track launch coaster that sends you soaring through the cosmos on a comet-speed adventure. It is a can’t-miss for those brave enough to take it on.

If hunger strikes or you’re simply in need of a refreshing drink, Celestial Park might just be the best place in Epic Universe to satisfy those cravings. Pizza Moon dishes some of the most delicious slices on Universal property, making it a crowd-pleaser for groups of all sizes. For something a bit more elevated, head to the Atlantic, where you can sip on expertly crafted cocktails while taking in gorgeous views in an upscale, relaxed setting. Both establishments are a must-visit.

Fan-Favorite Highlights in SUPER NINTENDO WORLD

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD is the ultimate playground for racers and Mushroom Kingdom adventurers of all ages! Equip a Power-Up Band featuring your favorite Nintendo character and start collecting coins as you explore this immersive world. Don’t miss Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, where you’ll team up with Mario and friends to take on Bowser in a race to the finish line.

Craving something sweet after all that action? Head over to Donkey Kong Country for a refreshing, tropical dessert at The Bubbly Barrel, perfect for cooling down.

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

How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk has a little bit of everything—but most importantly, it’s got dragons! Some of the most legendary fire-breathers in the universe call this place home, including the rarest and most beloved of them all: Toothless. You’ll even have the chance to meet him in person alongside his best friend, Hiccup, of course! After stopping to say hello, be sure to check them out at The Untrainable Dragon, a show that is sure to touch the heart of every Viking in the audience.

Want to feel what it’s like to fly on a dragon? Hop aboard Hiccup’s Wing Gliders and soar through the skies of Berk to the sweeping, cinematic score of the films.

Highlights in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic

Stepping through the portal into 1920s Paris and catching the Metro-Floo to the 1990s British Ministry of Magic is even more spellbinding in person than it sounds. This transition fully immerses guests into the Wizarding World, where new spells await, and interactive wand experiences bring the magic to life like never before.

Prepare to take on Dolores Umbridge and help Harry, Ron, and Hermione bring her to justice on an insanely wild ride through the Ministry of Magic. Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry is unlike anything else in the park and a top contender for the best attraction at Epic Universe.

When it’s time to recharge, Café L’air De La Sirène in Paris is the perfect spot to relax and refuel. While the Butterbeer Crêpe (Bierauberre in French!) is a fan favorite, don’t miss the indulgent Crème Brûlée. Pair it with a Lavender Lemonade, and you’re ready to continue your journey.

Dark Universe Favorites: Food, Atmosphere, and More

Step into the village of Darkmoor and feel the electrifying horror that awaits at every turn. The first thing to grab your attention (likely along with your breath) is the ominous Frankenstein Manor, a towering structure that sets the tone for what’s to come. Inside, you’ll find one of the most detailed queues and unforgettable rides Universal has ever crafted. You’ll come face to face with some of the most fearsome monsters from Universal’s classic horror legacy on Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, brought to life in ways more chilling than ever before.

After conquering Monster’s Unchained, stop by The Burning Blade Tavern as the windmill swirls and catches fire from time to time (pro tip: listen for the bell tolling from the belltower—it’s your cue something’s about to ignite). Step inside this rustic haunt to grab a delicious bite and swap stories with Monster Hunters, who are always eager to recount their latest terrifying encounters.  

As you wander through the shadowy streets of Darkmoor, keep a lookout for some of its residents. You might spot Ygor or catch a glimpse of the Invisible Man. Don’t be shy—say hello! These interactions are some of the most memorable (and legendary) you’ll find in the entire park.

Are you excited to experience 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.

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Here’s how Universal Orlando Resort teased the experience:

What began in 2014 as a small indie game quickly grew into a full-blown horror empire. Five Nights at Freddy’s puts players in the role of Mike Schmidt, a night shift security guard at Freddy Fazbear’s Pizza, a seemingly innocent family restaurant with animatronic mascots that felt straight out of Chuck E. Cheese… until the lights went out. Once night fell, these characters sprang to life—and not to perform. Instead, they turned hostile, forcing players to survive five increasingly terrifying nights (hence the name), using limited power and surveillance cameras to stay one step ahead of their mechanical stalkers. 

The game exploded in popularity, becoming a viral hit and launching a multimedia phenomenon. In fact, Five Nights at Freddy’s 2, 3, and 4 followed in a single year, each deepening the sinister lore of the Fazbear franchise. From new pizzerias and haunted attractions to managing your own restaurant by day and fending off possessed animatronics by night, each sequel to the Five Nights at Freddy’s game added fresh layers of story and suspense. 

The game continues to evolve. Five Nights at Freddy’s: The Secret of the Mimic was released on June 13, 2025, continuing the twisted legacy of jump scares and animatronic terror.

The franchise’s influence reaches far beyond gaming. The game inspired a trilogy of novels and a 2023 feature film from Blumhouse Productions starring Josh Hutcherson, with a sequel set to hit theaters later this year.

Will you survive the night? Find out when you visit Universal Orlando Resort’s Halloween Horror Nights, occurring on select nights from August 29 until November 2.

Learn more about Halloween Horror Nights in our insider’s guide, then 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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From easy-to-miss details to frequent first-timer slip-ups, this blog highlights the biggest Epic Universe mistakes to avoid so you can enjoy a smooth, unforgettable day in the park.

Universal Epic Universe Transportation Tips: Don’t Get Caught Without a Plan

It may come as a surprise that Epic Universe is on an entirely separate property from Universal Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida. Thankfully, Epic Universe has its own complimentary transportation going from Universal Orlando Resort Hotels and select Universal Partner Hotels. While Universal hotels like Cabana Bay Beach Resort and Loews’ Royal Pacific Resort have frequent shuttles going across Universal Orlando Resort’s properties, their Partner Hotel transportation may only run at set times and could require reservations, so don’t get left behind—check the schedule in advance.

If you’re staying at Stella Nova or Terra Luna, great news: Epic Universe is just across the street! Walking to the park takes about 10–15 minutes, so it’s perfect for those who prefer to skip the shuttle and stretch their legs.

Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft are always an option, though they’ll cost more than hotel-provided transportation. That said, thinking ahead about your hotel’s location and available transit options can save you major headaches later. A little planning = a lot more park time.

Guests of Helios Grand Hotel hit the jackpot when it comes to getting to the park. These accommodations come with a dedicated entrance to Epic Universe, placing you right between Dark Universe and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic. Talk about an epic backyard!

Avoid This Common Universal Epic Universe Mistake: Wear the Right Gear

There is truly depth to each of the worlds within Epic Universe — literally. One of the biggest aspects that sneaks up on travellers is the surprising number of stairs they’ll encounter during their visit. Here, wearing comfortable, supportive shoes and any knee or ankle braces will be a lifesaver when climbing up and down those staircases. 

Rest assured, elevators are available throughout various attractions and worlds for guests who need them. Please speak with a Team Member for assistance.

Universal Epic Universe Tips for Entertainment: Don’t Miss the Must-See Shows

Currently, Epic Universe has two live entertainment shows within its worlds: The Untrainable Dragon in How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, and Le Cirque Arcanus in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic. These shows deliver jaw-dropping effects, immersive storytelling, and heartwarming moments, making them absolutely worth carving out time for. That said, timing is everything. Showtimes can overlap, and if you’re not paying attention, it’s easy to miss one (or both) in the whirlwind of it all.

We’ve found that one of the best ways to assist in maximizing your day at Epic is via the Universal Orlando Resort app. Much like their other parks, the app displays the full entertainment schedule for the day, and you can even set reminders for the performances you don’t want to miss. This will help immensely in managing your visit just right while creating memories at Epic Universe.

Also on that note….

Reserve, Remind, and Maximize Your Day

We at Orlando Informer are big proponents of being able to move about at your leisure on vacation. That said, planning ahead for certain experiences can go a long way in making the rest of your visit stress-free and seamless. This is where the Universal Orlando Resort app comes in!

Besides showtime alerts for the must-see live entertainment, the app is where guests will make virtual queue reservations for Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry (if it’s in use during your visit). Additionally, mobile ordering plays a key role in Epic Universe’s dining experience—guests will place their orders for quick-service spots like Mead Hall in Isle of Berk and Das Stakehaus in Dark Universe directly through their devices. And while you can visit the host stand at Atlantic or The Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant, table-service reservations can also be made digitally for added convenience.

Finally, make the most of your Epic Universe visit (and your budget) by purchasing discounted theme park tickets through Orlando Informer here!

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.

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This list is based on what stood out: the thrills, the storytelling, the ride tech, and those unforgettable moments that had us laughing, screaming, or saying, “We’re doing that again.”

The Ultimate Ride Ranking for Epic Universe

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

Anticipated Ranking: #10

Fyre Drill is beautifully themed and fits right into the playful chaos of Isle of Berk. It’s colorful, interactive, and absolutely made for those sweltering Florida days! This attraction is slow and not actually very competitive, but you will get soaked. A great choice for younger kids or anyone who is looking to cool off.

#10 | Constellation Carousel (Celestial Park)

Anticipated Ranking: #11

Yes, it’s a carousel—but it’s stunning. Especially at night, when Celestial Park lights up around you. The seating is clever and unique, allowing multiple riders per creature, so you can enjoy a romantic ride with someone special or sit close to your little one who might be nervous about riding alone. It also lets parents enjoy the ride with their kids, instead of just standing beside them like on a traditional carousel. Peaceful, nostalgic, and elevated.

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

Anticipated Ranking: #9

Yoshi’s Adventure is exactly what it promises: slow, charming, and full of Mushroom Kingdom whimsy. The queue is adorable, the views from the ride are fun, and the glowing egg hunt adds a bit of interactive magic. For kids and Nintendo enthusiasts, it’s sweet and satisfying.

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

Anticipated Ranking: #7

There’s no denying this ride lives up to its name—you’ll feel every bump, jolt, and twist like you’re racing through a Donkey Kong jungle in a rickety mine cart. It’s rougher than it looks and more intense than the height requirement suggests. But the theming is fantastic and the queue is full of playful details. Clever effects, like the “track jump,” make it feel straight out of the game. Donkey Kong fans will love the chaos and character-packed fun.

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

Anticipated Ranking: #8

Soaring above Berk with spinning wings is just plain fun. You can control how much you flip, which makes it accessible for both cautious and adventurous riders. It’s a great middle-ground attraction that blends playful fun with just the right touch of excitement. I was a little nervous going in, but it wasn’t as scary as I expected. I actually really enjoyed it!

#6 | Curse of the Werewolf (Dark Universe)

Anticipated Ranking: #4

Short? Yes. But so worth it. This ride is enjoyable, eerie, and even more exciting than I expected. The spinning coaster track gives it a surprising amount of intensity, and the werewolf theming is perfectly creepy without being too scary for most. The free-spinning cars make every ride different, giving it great re-ride value.

#5 | Stardust Racers (Celestial Park)

Anticipated Ranking: #3

This coaster means business—fast, sleek, and absolutely bursting with adrenaline-pumping moments. If you’re a coaster enthusiast, prepare to meet your new favorite. The track not only adds drama to the park’s skyline but also delivers a wild mix of maneuvers, from classic inversions to fresh surprises like the Celestial Spin, where you’re face-to-face with the other vehicle mid-ride. It’s intense, no doubt, but totally worth it even if you’re usually hesitant about big coasters; this one’s worth braving at least once.

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

Anticipated Ranking: #6

This ride is all about the theming. Both the queue and ride are packed with incredible physical props and detail. The ride system can take a moment to get the hang of, but once you do, it’s a total blast. It’s not a high-speed attraction, but it’s immersive, interactive, and fun in a way only Mario Kart can pull off. If Nintendo was your childhood, this one’s a dream come true. 

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

Anticipated Ranking: #5

This story coaster hits the sweet spot—fun and fast with just the right dose of thrill for all kinds of riders. How to Train Your Dragon fans will enjoy spotting Easter eggs and dragon facts throughout the queue, but once you’re on the ride, it’s pure joy. The kind of attraction you finish and immediately say, “Let’s go again.” I think this one surprised me the most. I thought it would be good, but it’s great!

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

Anticipated Ranking: #2

The queue alone is worth your time—it’s immersive, detailed, and honestly breathtaking. Once the ride starts, the story kicks in fast, and it’s packed with movement, effects, and some truly impressive animatronics. I won’t spoil anything, but several moments drew full-audience gasps from our ride vehicle. You’ll want to experience it again just to catch everything you missed the first time!

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

Anticipated Ranking: #1

Not to brag, but I called it—this was my most anticipated ride, and it absolutely delivers. The animatronics are massive, detailed, and shockingly lifelike, and the ride strikes a perfect balance between scary, thrilling, and genuinely fun. The story is strong, the vehicle motion is smooth, and there’s even unexpected humor and character depth woven in. It’s dark, exciting, beautiful, and brilliantly designed. Not just the standout at Epic Universe—this is one of the best theme park experiences anywhere.

Universal Epic Universe: Best Rides by Category

• Best Coaster Thrill: Stardust Racers
• Most Immersive Storytelling: Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment & Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry
• Best Ride for Younger or Hesitant Riders: Yoshi’s Adventure & Constellation Carousel
• Best Ride to Cool Off on a Hot Day: Fyre Drill
• Most Visually Stunning: Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment & Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge
• Most Innovative Ride System: Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry
• Best Nighttime Ride Experience: Stardust Racers & Constellation Carousel
• Best (Almost) All-Ages Ride: Hiccup’s Wing Gliders

The Epic Universe Ride Rankings Recap

Epic Universe didn’t just meet expectations—it launched them into orbit. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a dark ride lover, or someone who just appreciates great theming and detail, there’s something here that will stick with you long after the day is over.

Start planning your visit to Epic Universe today with discounted admission to Universal Orlando Resort theme parks, available through Orlando Informer.

What have been your favorite moments at Universal Epic Universe? Share your favorite experiences 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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JAWS & Universal Studios Florida: A Brief History

Released by Universal Pictures on June 20, 1975, JAWS sank its teeth into pop culture and never let go. Centered on a great white shark terrorizing a New England beach town, the film became an instant classic and a box office phenomenon, earning the title of highest-grossing film of all time (until Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope took the crown two years later). Its unforgettable two-note theme by John Williams became the sound of cinematic suspense and is still instantly recognizable to this day. 

The film’s success led to three sequels and an opening-day ride at Universal Studios Florida. Guests could board Captain Jake’s Amity Boat Tours, a company cashing in on the 1974 shark attacks that inspired Spielberg’s blockbuster. Skippers assured guests there was nothing to fear. After all, no sharks had been seen in the area for years. But as any attraction fan knows, things rarely go according to plan.

While this ride thrilled guests for decades, it officially closed on January 2, 2012, to make way for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley. Today, a lone shark photo op remains as a nod to the theme park’s lore.

JAWS 50th Anniversary Food Menu at Universal Studios Florida

Near Chez Alcatraz in the San Francisco area of the park, you’ll find two limited-time food and beverage booths serving up themed bites and drinks inspired by the classic film, including Narragansett beer, just like the one Quint famously cracks open on screen.

Captain Quint’s Boardwalk Snacks

Food

Bucket of Bait – $14.99
Crispy pieces of clams, shrimp, and oysters, sitting on a bed of fries with lemon and sriracha ketchup

Lobster Taiyaki – $14.99
Savory taiyaki filled with a lobster salad

Beverages

Amity Island Iced Tea
20 oz. Souvenir Cup – $16.50
20 oz. Souvenir Cup Refill – $13.50
12 oz. Single Serve – $13.50
New Amsterdam Vodka, BACARDI Superior Rum, Cuervo Tradicional Blanco Tequila, Bols Apricot Brandy, lemon juice, cranberry juice, simple syrup, Sprite

Amity Island Iced Tea Mocktail – $9.00
Cranberry juice, stone fruit syrup, and Sprite

Narragansett – $10.50

Select Coca-Cola Beverages – $4.99
Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Sprite

Smartwater – $6.00

The Midway Grill

Food

Nathan’s Hot Dog – $9.49
100% beef dog with your choice of condiments

Funnel Cake – $7.99
Fresh funnel cake with your choice of powdered sugar or strawberry topping

Beverages

Frenzy Fizz
20 oz. Souvenir Cup – $16.50
20 oz. Souvenir Cup Refill – $13.50
12 oz. Single Serve – $13.50
Mocktail – $9.00
Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, raspberry purée, stone fruit syrup, and Coca-Cola Orange Cream

Narragansett – $10.50

Select Coca-Cola Beverages – $4.99
Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Sprite

Smartwater – $6.00

JAWS 50th Anniversary Merchandise

Commemorate five decades of JAWS with exclusive 50th anniversary merchandise, available at both San Francisco Candy Factory inside the park and the Universal Studios Store at Universal CityWalk. 

Guests can shop a variety of items, including t-shirts, tank tops, hats, lanyards, mugs, bags, and more. Plus, each location features a unique display showcasing the full collection.

Here’s a look at what’s available:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

• Blue Hat – $27
• Yellow Hat – $27
• Shark Plush – $22
• Bucket Hat – $30
• Drink Lanyard – $16
• Pins – $11
• Crossbody Bag – $50
• Yellow Tee – $37
• Tank Top – $37
• Mug – $20
• Wallet – $35
• Blue Tee – $27
• Lanyard – $16
• Spoon – $20
• Keychain – $20
• Drink Cooler – $40
• Throw Blanket – $40
• Travel Mug – $25

Guests can also stay refreshed with a limited-edition JAWS Coca-Cola Freestyle cup—perfect for hydrating and celebrating all day long!

JAWS 50th Anniversary Photo Ops at Universal Studios Florida

Strike a pose with special photo ops around the San Francisco area of the park! Guests can take photos in front of the Amity Island welcome sign or step into the action by pretending to drive one of the boats from Captain Jake’s Amity Boat Tours. Keep an eye out for other fun nods to the film, including a “Beach Closed” sign and a festive Amity 4th of July Celebration banner.

The JAWS 50th Anniversary Celebration at Universal Studios Florida runs from May 23 through July 6. Score discounted Universal Orlando Resort tickets through Orlando Informer here and experience it all yourself!

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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Universal Epic Universe Grand Opening Celebration

Tonight was a star-studded celebration marking the moment our universe officially changed forever. Celebrities like Gerard Butler, Andy Cohen, Howie Mandel, Danny Elfman, Bowen Yang, Matt Rogers, and Kirk Cousins made appearances on the “blue carpet,” alongside key figures from Universal’s past and present. Karen Irwin, President and Chief Operating Officer, and Tom Williams, former Chairman and CEO, were among the many influential minds in attendance, alongside a multitude of creatives who continue to shape the future of Universal Orlando Resort and Universal experiences around the globe.

The night concluded with a breathtaking show that lit up the sky in a cascade of fireworks, marking a milestone not just for Universal Orlando Resort but for the theme park industry at large.

The voice of Chairman and CEO of Universal Destinations & Experiences, Mark Woodbury, welcomed the crowd, followed by a powerful voiceover from none other than Steven Spielberg. The show unfolded as a symphony of sound and light to celebrate each new portal, beginning with the Super Mario Bros. theme, seamlessly transitioning into the soaring notes of the Harry Potter score as fireworks erupted above. The atmosphere shifted with the haunting notes of Dark Universe, casting a mysterious tone that made you wonder what creatures might be stirring in the shadows. Then came the emotional swell of How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, accompanied by the fan-favorite track “Test Drive.”

Then, the grand finale: drones rose into the night, swirling into formation. As the final sparks faded and the smoke cleared, these drones formed a glowing portal above a single, powerful word: “Epic.”

It’s hard not to feel a lump in your throat watching it all unfold—this culmination of years of anticipation. For theme park fans, it’s a moment of awe and emotion, watching history happen in real time. Parks like this aren’t built every year, or even every decade. And in a city already filled with world-class experiences, this debut feels nothing short of extraordinary.

Opening Moments of the Universal Epic Universe Portals

In the lead-up to tonight’s highly anticipated Grand Opening Celebration, we’ve had an action-packed week exploring the wonders of Epic Universe during Universal Orlando Resort’s exclusive coverage event.

How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk

Tuesday morning kicked off with an exciting opening moment at How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk. Hiccup, joined by Astrid, Stormfly, and a hearty crew of Vikings, welcomed guests to a world where dragons soar and adventure awaits at every turn. The photos above capture the energy of this moment, and you can catch the full video in our tweet below.

Special guests have arrived to welcome us to How to Train Your Dragon — Isle of Berk at Universal Epic Universe! #hosted pic.twitter.com/NR5d1UTpZU

— Orlando Informer (@OrlandoInformer) May 20, 2025

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD

Later that day, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD leveled up the festivities! Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and Donkey Kong made their grand entrance, bringing pixel-perfect fun and nostalgia to life. Photos are above, and you’ll find the video in the tweet just below!

Let the games begin! Mario, Luigi, and friends traveled through the Warp Pipe to welcome guests to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD. #hosted pic.twitter.com/H10ftA7OII

— Orlando Informer (@OrlandoInformer) May 20, 2025

Dark Universe

Then this morning, things took a darker, more dramatic turn as Dark Universe made its debut. Through a veil of thick fog, Dr. Victoria Frankenstein emerged alongside Ygor, the Invisible Man, Frankenstein’s Monster, and the Bride of Frankenstein to unveil their chilling domain. You’ll find a photo of the haunting moment above and a full video linked in our tweet below.

It’s alive! Dr. Victoria Frankenstein has opened the gates of Dark Universe — and she’s not alone. #hosted pic.twitter.com/xAC13nnalU

— Orlando Informer (@OrlandoInformer) May 21, 2025

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic

The final portal we witnessed open this afternoon was The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic. Celebrity guests Warwick Davis and twins James and Oliver Phelps joined the celebration with a rousing “wands at the ready!” as they welcomed us into a world brimming with fantastic beasts and magical creatures. Don’t miss the photos above and the video of this enchanting, star-studded reveal in our tweet below!

With the help of Warwick Davis and James and Oliver Phelps, Universal Epic Universe held a spellbinding celebration to welcome The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic! pic.twitter.com/tZC6KaSAoE

— Orlando Informer (@OrlandoInformer) May 21, 2025

As the sky lit up with fireworks and the final portal opened with magic and fanfare, one thing became crystal clear: this wasn’t just a preview—it was a glimpse into the future of theme parks. Universal Epic Universe isn’t just a new chapter for Universal Orlando Resort, it’s a bold reimagining of what a theme park can be.

We’re honored to have been part of this historic grand opening, and it’s impossible not to feel the weight of this moment. We aren’t just watching a new park open—we are witnessing history in the making.

And now, the countdown is over. Epic Universe officially opens on May 22, and what awaits is nothing short of, well… epic.

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. Plus, purchase discounted theme park admission through Orlando Informer 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 plan like a pro, we’ve rounded up everything you need to know for your July 2025 visit to Universal Orlando Resort—from weather tips and crowd levels to seasonal events and must-see experiences.

Universal Orlando Crowd Calendar for July 2025

July is one of the busiest months at Universal Orlando Resort—and it’s no surprise why! School’s out, summer vacations are in full swing, and the Fourth of July holiday draws extra-large crowds as families take advantage of the time off. 

On top of that, excitement is still high following the grand opening of Universal Orlando Resort’s newest theme park, Epic Universe, on May 22. Guests from around the world are flocking in for their first look at the resort’s latest addition, adding even more energy (and foot traffic) to the parks.

But don’t let the crowds catch you off guard! Our crowd calendar breaks down what to expect each day, so you can plan smarter, arrive earlier, and navigate the parks like a pro.

Events at Universal Orlando in July 2025: What’s Happening During Your Visit

JAWS 50th Anniversary

Dun dun… dun dun… the JAWS 50th anniversary celebration at Universal Orlando Resort is wrapping up on July 6, so if you’re visiting in the first week of the month, you’re in luck! Don’t miss your chance to sink your teeth into limited-time merchandise, themed snacks, and signature drinks crafted just for the occasion.

Meet the Stars of Wicked

Heading to Universal Studios Florida this July? Don’t miss your chance to meet the witches of Oz! From June 23 through August 10, you can come face-to-face with Glinda and Elphaba at Wicked: The Experience. Entertainment subject to change.

Temporary Ride Closures & Refurbishments

Good news! There are no scheduled ride closures at Universal Orlando Resort for July 2025! Things can change, so if any updates pop up, we’ll keep our Snapshot page refreshed with the latest ride closures, refurbishments, and other key happenings at Universal Orlando Resort throughout July and beyond.

Of course, last-minute ride closures can occur due to weather and other factors, so it’s always smart to check the Universal Orlando Resort app for real-time updates during your visit.

Universal Orlando Resort Weather in July 2025 & What to Wear to Beat the Heat

Welcome to the height of Florida summer! July in Orlando turns up the heat – and then some. You’ll face soaring temperatures, sky-high humidity, and daily afternoon thunderstorms that roll in like clockwork. It’s all part of the summer experience!

That being said, when it comes to dressing for the parks in July, think light, breathable, and ready for anything!

• Clothing: Athleisure will be your best friend. Think loose-fitting shirts, moisture-wicking shorts, and outfits that dry quickly after a sudden rain shower.
• Footwear: Trust us—sneakers over flip flops. You’ll be walking for miles, and flip-flops don’t hold up well under soggy or sweaty conditions. They can quickly go from cute to blister-inducing.
• Sun protection: Bring a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen (and reapply often!). Neck fans are popular for a reason, and you’ll see plenty of guests cooling off with them.
• Rain gear: Afternoon storms are the norm, not the exception, so toss a poncho or small umbrella in your bag. Bonus tip: pack an extra pair of socks to avoid that dreaded soggy-shoe feeling.
• Hydration: Okay, it’s not something you wear, but it’s just as essential. Make time for regular water breaks and keep an eye on your crew, especially little ones and older adults.

We also recommend checking out our detailed guide to Universal Orlando Resort weather, featuring average temps, record highs and lows, and monthly trends—including July and every other month of the year.

There you have it! July may bring big crowds and blazing heat, but it also delivers a whole lot of excitement. From limited-time offerings to the buzz of a brand-new theme park, there’s no shortage of thrills waiting for you. 

And don’t forget: if you haven’t already, snag discounted theme park admission through Orlando Informer and save on your July 2025 Universal Orlando Resort vacation!

Learn tips and tricks from 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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Terra Luna is a sister hotel to Stella Nova, which opened in January. While there are many similarities between the two resorts, there are some key differences that make Terra Luna special in its own way. From its epic location to its planetary vibes, here are the top five benefits of staying at Universal Terra Luna Resort.

1. Top Terra Luna Benefit: Just Minutes from Epic Universe

One of the most fantastic perks of staying at Terra Luna is the proximity to Universal’s brand-new park, Epic Universe. Guests will only have a 5-minute bus ride to walk through the Chronos and experience five new worlds. The fun doesn’t stop there! Hop on a complimentary shuttle and in just 15 minutes you’ll be at CityWalk and its two connecting parks, Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure.

2. Cool Off with a Moon-Rockin’ Pool and Hot Tub

Nothing beats soaking up the Florida sunshine poolside on a beautiful day. Terra Luna’s stunning spherical pool provides the perfect place to relax and recharge on your Universal Orlando Resort vacation.

Rare chilly Orlando day? No problem! Step right into the hot tub or grab a seat next to the fire pit.

3. Immersive Theming with a Cosmic Touch

Covered in the same hand-placed color-shifting tiles as Stella Nova, Terra Luna Resort shines during the day and lights up at night. Guests are truly transported into the galaxies. The sleek and cosmic theming sets the tone for what will be a stellar visit.

Once you enter, you will be surrounded by real photos from NASA of planets in the lobby and your room, immersed in their textures and terrains. Be sure to also check out the porthole in the lobby for a fun, out-of-this-world surprise.

4. Tasty, Terrestrial-Approved Dining Options

Looking for a hearty meal, something light, or a refreshing beverage? Terra Luna has you covered with many different delicious options.

The main dining location, Omega Cafe and Market, offers fresh and tasty entrees for adventurous and picky eaters alike. There is also a grab-and-go section for those looking for something substantial on the move.

Right next to the Omega Market, the Luna Bar invites you to kick back and sip in style. Whether you’re craving a classic cocktail or one of their specially crafted Terra Luna signatures, the talented bartenders are ready to mix up something memorable. Be sure to try my personal favorites like the Umbriel and the Luna.

Chilling by the pool? Swing by Moonrise Bar and Moonrise Grill for delicious eats and refreshing drinks—all without leaving your lounge chair.

Prefer to stay in? Terra Luna’s got you covered with nightly pizza delivery and in-room dining available until midnight, perfect for a cozy night in.

5. One of the Best Terra Luna Benefits? Incredible Value

Universal Terra Luna Resort is a Prime Value hotel that delivers big on comfort and fun. Each guest room features two plush queen beds, perfect for relaxing after a day in the parks. Guests can also enjoy a fully equipped fitness center to stay active and an action-packed arcade that adds a little extra excitement to every stay. Early Park Admission is included for all guests staying at Terra Luna, along with Universal Orlando Resort theme park admission. All of this for just a starting price of around $216 a night.

Don’t wait—unlock the benefits of staying at Universal Terra Luna 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 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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