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

Green and Red Coconut Club Schedule

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

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

A Look Inside Mistletoe Pine Ski Lodge

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

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

Green and Red Coconut Club Menu

Cocktails

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Beverages

Angry Orchard – $12.25

Yuengling – $11.25

Bud Light – $11.25

Blue Moon – $12.25

Crooked Can Black Frost – $12.25

Einstök Doppelbock – $11.25

Stella Artois – $13.00

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

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

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

A Look Behind the Curtain at the Experience

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

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

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

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

Other Wicked Offerings at Universal Orlando Resort

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

Food

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

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

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

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

Drinks

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

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

The Sparkling Emerald – $11.00
Sparkling Green Limoncello Spritz

Shimmering Spritz – $11.00
Sparkling Pink Blueberry Spritz

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reflections of Fear (2008)

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

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

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

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

Case Files Unearthed: Legendary Truth (2021)

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

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

Boris Shuster’s Other Halloween Horror Nights Appearances

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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SeaWorld Orlando: Family Halloween Activities in Central Florida

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

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

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

Busch Gardens: Top Family Halloween Fun in Central Florida

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

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

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

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

Other Family-Friendly Halloween Events

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

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

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

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

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The Incredible Hulk Coaster Height Requirements

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

The Incredible Hulk Coaster Story

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

The Incredible Hulk Coaster Ride Vehicle

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

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

The Incredible Hulk Coaster Ride Experience

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

Speed

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

Direction

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

Length

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

Height

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

Other features

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

If you choose not to ride…

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit Height Requirement

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

Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit Story

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

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

Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit Ride Vehicle

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

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

Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit Ride Ride Experience

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

Speed

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

Direction

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

Length

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

Height

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

Other features

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

If you choose not to ride…

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

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

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

A Brief History of Major Sweets at Halloween Horror Nights

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

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

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

The Untold Story of Major Sweets and the Lonely Boy

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

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

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

Tragedy Strikes the Tribute Theater

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

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

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

The Tribute Theater’s Sweet New Deal

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

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

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

Major Sweets Arrives in Hollow Hills

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

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

Major Sweets Candy Factory

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

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

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

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

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

Major Sweets’ Sweet Revenge: The Shocking Finale

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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With such a strong presence at Halloween Horror Nights and three Blumhouse entries for 2024 (Insidious: The Further, Enter the Blumhouse, and this year’s Dead Coconut Club featuring Blumhouse), it’s the perfect time to explore the deep ties between HHN and Blumhouse Productions. Specifically, we’ll be focusing on the in-park use of Blumhouse properties, including haunted houses, scare zones, and roaming characters. While Blumhouse has also been featured in media events, Blumfest at Universal Orlando Resort, and even the popular Scare-Actor Dining experience, those are more HHN-adjacent rather than part of the main event itself.

Now, without further ado, enter the fog of history with us as we begin our journey in 2014.

The Purge: Anarchy (2014)

After signing a 10-year first-look deal with Universal Pictures, Blumhouse Productions made its first Orlando appearance at Halloween Horror Nights 24 with The Purge: Anarchy. Based on the first two Purge movies, the scare zone was located in the New York section of Universal Studios Florida. The areas unique story placed guests in the midst of this year’s Purge, where the Old Elegant Woman and Big Daddy would capture and auction off victims as part of the national festivities.

This was the first, but certainly not the last, time we’d see one of Blumhouse’s most beloved franchises at HHN. The success of The Purge: Anarchy was likely due in part to the integration of plain-clothes victims and facade televisions displaying “live feeds” of the Purge, which helped elevate the zone’s storytelling.

Insidious (2015)

Following the success of the previous year, Blumhouse was granted an increased presence in HHN 25. This included two of the event’s nine houses being based on Blumhouse properties: Insidious and The Purge. The Insidious house was based on the first three movies from the franchise. Guests would enter the house via the Smith Estate facade and Dalton’s bedroom before entering The Further and passing through several key scenes from the movies.

During their journey, guests crossed paths with the Lipstick Face Demon, The Man Who Can’t Breathe, and The Bride in Black. The haunted house successfully captured the spirit of the Insidious series. The simple but impressive effects and techniques allowed the franchise’s iconic characters to deliver powerful scares.

The Purge (2015)

With its success as a scare zone and popularity with Blumhouse fans, creating a house for The Purge franchise only made sense. The house would be based on The Purge and The Purge: Anarchy. Similar to the scare zone from the previous year, guests entering the house would find themselves in the midst of the nation’s annual Purge event. As the guests navigated the maze of scenes from both movies, they were joined by “fake victims” who would be captured and murdered as part of the Purge festivities while trying to escape the other purgers.

While The Purge is more effective when executed as a scare zone rather than a house, the 2015 iteration was still solid. The Purge has always been a natural fit for HHN, and the house’s narrative was still well-done, with scares that allowed it to be genuinely terrifying.

All Nite Die-In: Double Feature (2015)

Carey, Ohio has a storied history in HHN, so it makes perfect sense that Blumhouse would find its way into a scare zone based on its infamous drive-in movie theatre. All Nite Die-In’s scareactors and themes were divided into two halves. One was a black-and-white portion based on classic horror movies like The Wolfman, Dracula, and The Invisible Man. The other half would be modern movies such as Chucky, Freddy vs. Jason, and The Purge.

This scare zone was unique in its own right with the era-divided halves. Naturally, characters from Blumhouse’s The Purge were found in the modern line-up. Guests would encounter figures from The Purge franchise, such as the gray hooded skeleton, as well as the demon-mouth and smiling purgers.

The Horrors of Blumhouse (2017)

Two years later, Blumhouse would make its return to HHN in the first iteration of The Horrors of Blumhouse, a tent house based on three of their legendary franchises. Guests would navigate through scenes from The Purge, Sinister, and Insidious within the maze. After passing through the Blumhouse Productions logo, guests were greeted by a title card for Sinister, featuring a bloodied image of Bughuul. The blood trail led them into a series of gruesome scenes from the Oswalt house and the church, both iconic locations from the first two Sinister films. From there, the experience transitioned to chilling scenes from the original Purge and culminated with terrifying moments from the Insidious movies.

Featuring some of Blumhouse’s most popular franchises is undoubtedly a draw for attendees, but that wasn’t the best part of this house. As if that wasn’t enough, The Horrors of Blumhouse not only recreated iconic scenes from the first Insidious movie but also offered a special sneak peek of the franchise’s latest installment, Insidious: The Last Key. To top it off, the house even made an appearance in the Altars of Horror scare zone, serving as a teaser for that year’s haunted house lineup.

The Purge (2017)

True to the chaotic spirit of the Purge franchise, the inescapable dangers weren’t confined to just the houses that year. The Purge also returned as a scare zone, immersing guests in the horrors of the first three films. It featured fan-favorite elements like the auction hosted by the Old Elegant Woman and the eerie Smiling Purgers, along with new additions, such as a car outfitted with a steel cage containing a Purger, a victim, and a wood chipper.

Set in the New York section of the park, the scare zone felt like a full-blown invasion, with a multitude of scareactors creating a relentless atmosphere of fear. The inclusion of Kimmy’s car from The Purge: Election Year and the plain-clothes victims from the past heightened the feeling of being fully immersed in the world of The Purge.

The Horrors of Blumhouse (2018)

In its second iteration, The Horrors of Blumhouse had a more concise journey as it was based on Happy Death Day and The First Purge. Guests would cross through the Blumhouse Productions facade, entering into Happy Death Day. Here, they were greeted with an introductory jump scare by the Baby Face Killer — as well as a certain, pivotal poisoned cupcake — in the Bayfield College tunnel. They then witness the many deaths of Tree Gelbman at the hands of Babyface as she tries to figure out the mystery of the killer’s identity and why she keeps reliving the same day.

After exiting the Happy Death Day’s final scene, guests are brought into The First Purge via a transition hall of televisions commencing the New Founding Fathers of America’s original experiment. Guests are thrust into the streets of Staten Island where they encounter a variety of purgers. Not even the exit is safe as a final purger squeezes out one last jump scare as guests left the house.

The Horrors of Blumhouse (2022)

Universal announced the return of The Horrors of Blumhouse for HHN 31, this time featuring a double feature of Freaky and The Black Phone. Its narrative was a dramatic retelling of the movies as guests attempted to escape the clutches of The Grabber and the Blissfield Butcher.

This version of The Horrors of Blumhouse may have been based on only two movies, but it’s among the longest houses Universal has created for Halloween Horror Nights. This is due to it utilizing both the extended queue of Fast and Furious: Supercharged and an additional tent to weave its story.

The Exorcist: Believer (2023)

The following year, the Jason Blum-produced The Exorcist: Believer made its way to the HHN 32 house lineup. Upon entering, guests were immediately transported to a Haitian market, complete with the smells of food cooking and the eerie sound of demonic growls, setting the stage for what was to come. Inside the house, guests were thrust into scenes from the movie, playing a role as the demons possessing Katherine and Angela pursued them.

This latest entry in The Exorcist franchise marked the first time the series had appeared at HHN since 2016. It also served as a living trailer for The Exorcist: Believer, which didn’t hit theaters until October 6, 2023—right in the middle of that year’s Halloween Horror Nights season.

M3GAN (2023)

After the success of the highly acclaimed M3GAN, her appearance at HHN was inevitable. Instead of a dedicated house or an anchored scare zone, M3GAN dolls randomly appeared in roaming hordes throughout the park. These M3GANs were similar in style to the beloved chainsaw drill teams and the zombie prisoners from 2008’s Zombies! scare zone. What made the M3GAN horde unique was their parkwide presence and that they weren’t meant to frighten guests. Instead, they performed a choreographed routine based on the film’s popular dance scene that would segue into a photo op.

Insidious: The Further (2024)

Based on the popular Insidious franchise, this house brings its guests into the infamous red door and into the Further. Insidious: The Further brings guests with the franchise’s most terrifying demons. At the start of the house, you’re guided by Elise Rainer’s voice as you enter the Red Door and cross into the Further. Once in the house, guests encounter monsters from the franchise, such as the Lipstick-Faced Demon, Key Face, and The Bride in Black.

The great thing about Insidious: The Further is that it’s based on the overall franchise rather than a specific movie. This helps it appeal to everyone, as watching the movies is not necessary to understand this house.

Enter the Blumhouse (2024)

Much like The Horrors of Blumhouse, Enter the Blumhouse is a scare zone based on several properties of the horror production company. Upon entering the San Francisco section of Universal Studios Florida, guests run a gauntlet of horror armed with some of Blumhouse’s most fearsome villains. This scare zone features the Grabber from The Black Phone, M3GAN, characters from The Purge, Millie Kessler, and the Blissfield Butcher from Freaky, as well as Tree Gelbman and the Baby Face Killer from Happy Death Day.

The scare zone works very well as a highlight of Blumhouse’s most popular franchises. As a bonus surprise this year, it also features a photo op for Blumhouse’s upcoming 2025 Wolfman reboot.

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

The post The History of Blumhouse Productions at Halloween Horror Nights appeared first on Orlando Informer.

We’ll walk through everything you need to know, from must-pack items to strategies for navigating scare zones and haunted houses with confidence. Whether you’re dodging jump scares or seeking out scare-free paths, these insider tips will help you make the most of your Halloween Horror Nights experience—even if you’re a self-proclaimed scaredy cat!

Halloween Horror Nights Preparation for Scaredy Cats: What to Know Before You Go

What To Pack

We highly recommend bringing two essential items to prepare for the houses at Halloween Horror Nights: sunglasses and earplugs. During the early hours of the event, the sun can be quite bright, making the transition from daylight to the darkness of the houses disorienting. Wearing sunglasses while you wait can make this shift easier on your eyes.

Earplugs are another must-have. I never go into a house without them! They help muffle the loud noises that often accompany jump scares, making the experience less jarring and allowing you to better take in your surroundings.

Research

Filming inside the houses is not permitted; however, Universal Orlando Resort allows select members of the media to record the houses at the start of each year’s Halloween Horror Nights. You can find plenty of videos and perspectives on YouTube to help you prepare for the scares and know what to expect. This can be especially helpful if you have specific fears or phobias, as it allows you to gauge your comfort level and decide if there are any houses you might want to skip.

Express Passes & RIP Tours

Sometimes, the anticipation can be scarier than the house itself. Waiting in line gives you plenty of time to overthink and possibly talk yourself out of going through with it. To avoid this, we highly recommend purchasing Express Passes or booking an RIP Tour to speed up your entry into the haunted mazes. You can learn more about these options in our guide here.

Plan to go with a group

Not only does having a scream squad make the event more fun, but it also provides great support. With friends, you can have someone you know lead the way in front of you and someone else behind, making you feel more secure. Plus, it’s comforting to have someone to hold onto if things get too frightening.

Navigating Scare Zones at Halloween Horror Nights for Scaredy Cats

Scope Out the Event During Daytime

You’ve done your prep, and now it’s time to arrive at Halloween Horror Nights. You’ll likely encounter a scare zone before entering a haunted house, as these themed areas are typically located in Production Central, Hollywood, New York, San Francisco, and Central Park, with haunted houses scattered throughout Universal Studios Florida.

Arrive early while there is still daylight to get a good look at these sections. This will allow you to see what the scareactors look like and identify any set pieces that might cleverly conceal incoming scares.

Stay Alert in Scare Zones

Stay on your toes as you navigate the scare zones at Halloween Horror Nights! Scareactors love to catch you off guard, and their unexpected interactions can be quite startling if you’re not paying attention. But don’t worry—while they might give you a good scare, they can’t touch you, and you can’t touch them. In fact, some of these interactions can be playful and lighthearted. I’ve often found myself laughing at my own reactions rather than feeling frightened. Enjoy the fun and let yourself get caught up in the experience! 

It’s also a good idea to keep your cool. Scareactors are less likely to target you if you maintain a neutral expression and remain calm as you move through these sections. Don’t let them see you sweat!

Find Scare Zone-Free Paths

While we highly recommend exploring the scare zones to admire the stunning costumes and set pieces, we understand that sometimes you might not be in the mood and would rather skip them altogether. If that’s the case, we have a few suggestions to help you navigate around these areas.

First, stick to the sidewalks within a scare zone. Scare actors usually focus on the central parts of the zone and tend to avoid those walkways (though this isn’t a guarantee). This way, you can still take in the ambiance from a comfortable distance without getting too close to the action.

If you want to avoid these sections entirely, there are some routes you can take around Universal Studios Florida. Although the front portion of the park is a scare zone that’s fairly unavoidable, you can use the sidewalk strategy to make your way toward Illumination’s Minion Land. After passing Illumination’s Minion Cafe, turn right to access the Gramercy Park food stands or continue deeper into the park, bypassing the New York and Hollywood scare zones.

Consider passing through Central Park to avoid the San Francisco and Central Park scare zones. Interestingly, the scare zone isn’t actually located within Central Park but rather along the pathway between Cafe La Bamba and DreamWorks Imagination Cafe. This particular area is the smallest of the bunch, with narrow walkways and foliage that create immersive set pieces and more opportunities to get startled. By using this alternate route, you can still access attractions like MEN IN BLACK Alien Attack and Harry Potter and the Escape From Gringotts, as well as food stands in Springfield: Home of the Simpsons and World Expo, and the Nightmare Fuel show.

Strategies for Scaredy Cats to Navigate Halloween Horror Nights Houses

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

If you’ve prepared for Halloween Horror Nights by doing your research, packing the essentials, and bringing along a few friends for support, you’re already set up for a great experience. But as you face your fears in the mazes, here are a few more tips to keep in mind.

One thing to look out for is large speakers overhead. These are often placed where scareactors are stationed since their actions are usually accompanied by sound effects. I also like to look for the scareactors’ footwear—it can be quite grounding to realize that even the most terrifying monsters put their shoes on one foot at a time, just like the rest of us.

Lastly, pay attention to what’s happening in front of you. Because of the flow of people entering the mazes, you can often anticipate a scare based on the reactions of those ahead. Listen for their screams, watch for strobe lights, or notice sudden noises—all of these can signal that something is coming.

Alternative Experiences for Scaredy Cats at Halloween Horror Nights

Tribute Store

So, you’ve tried all our tips and tricks but still aren’t quite ready to face the houses or scare zones. Don’t worry—there’s still plenty for you to enjoy! Start with the Halloween Horror Nights Tribute Store. It’s located near the New York scare zone, but as long as you stick to the sidewalks, you should be able to make your way there without any scares.

The Tribute Store is an attraction all its own. Every year, the creative brains at Universal Orlando Resort design a unique shopping experience that not only features the latest Halloween Horror Nights merchandise but also tells a captivating story as you move through the store. You could easily spend over an hour exploring all the incredible details inside!

Nightmare Fuel

Despite its name, this show isn’t scary at all—it’s packed with dancing, acrobatics, optical illusions, and more! Each year brings a new and improved version of the show, and this year’s Nightmare Fuel: Nocturnal Circus is my personal favorite. With a cohesive story to follow, you’ll be captivated by the incredible stunts and fiery (literally) performances throughout.

Halloween Horror Nights Exclusive Food

Halloween Horror Nights doesn’t just feature ten houses and five scare zones—it also offers a delicious lineup of themed foods. The menu usually includes Halloween Horror Nights classics like Pizza Fries and Twisted Taters, along with creative new bites like this year’s The Frozen Death Chill: a Korean corndog-dipped mint cheesecake topped with Bugles and glitter.

Daytime Attractions

If you’re not up for the houses, why not scream your heart out on some of Universal Studios Florida’s attractions that stay open during Halloween Horror Nights? You can take on the thrills of Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, Revenge of the Mummy, MEN IN BLACK Alien Attack, and Harry Potter and the Escape From Gringotts. But before you dash to these rides, here are a few things to keep in mind.

Revenge of the Mummy is just off the New York scare zone. You can avoid most of the frights by sticking to the sidewalks, as we suggested earlier, but be aware that you’ll still be close to the scares.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley used to be a safe haven from the Halloween Horror Nights fears, but recently, Death Eaters have taken over, patrolling the streets and looking for new followers. While they add to the ominous atmosphere, they’ll generally leave you alone if you steer clear of them. Also, remember that Harry Potter and the Escape From Gringotts closes before the park does, so if this ride is on your must-do list, make sure to experience it early in the evening.

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

The post Halloween Horror Nights Survival Tips for Scaredy Cats appeared first on Orlando Informer.

Know Before You Go

Before heading to SeaWorld Orlando, there are a few important policies to keep in mind. For your convenience, you can rent a stroller online before your visit. If you prefer, strollers are also available for rent inside the park, right next to Guest Services at the front entrance.

Please note that outside food, beverages, and coolers are not permitted in the park. However, this rule does not apply to baby food or formula. Upon arrival, contact Park Security or Guest Relations for approval to bring these items in.

Each guest needs a SeaWorld Orlando ticket, except for children under three years old—they receive free admission, and no photo ID is required for anyone under 18. By the way, you can snag discounted tickets for those three and older through Orlando Informer here!

After entering the park, it’s helpful to locate nursing facilities on the map. You can find them in Sesame Street Land, Waterway Grill, and in front of Journey to Atlantis.

Exploring Sesame Street Land at SeaWorld Orlando with Toddlers and Babies

Sesame Street Land is perfect for little ones with plenty of opportunities to stay entertained. The land includes immersive experiences, attractions, character interactions, a parade, and so much more! As the most themed area of the park, it’s fun for parents too. Kids can wander around and hear responses from their favorite characters at height-appropriate interactive opportunities. There are several interactive elements throughout the land, such as Bert and Ernie’s doorbell, where you can listen to them talk after ringing their buzzer! Knocking on Oscar the Grouch’s trashcan will prompt him to reply as well. Sesame Street Land also has bubble wands available for purchase that double as interactive devices. You can use the wands at interaction points marked by a yellow star and the words “tap wand here.” 

Sesame Street Party Parade

The Sesame Street Party Parade is a must-see if you are visiting with fans of the show! You can purchase reserved seating to guarantee a spot on the route without the wait, freeing up more time for attractions or nap time. This parade has beautiful floats and fun music that’ll have everyone dancing! Party and sing along with Elmo, Big Bird, Abby Cadabby, and other familiar faces from the TV screen.

Character Meet-and-Greets

Snap a photo with Elmo and friends next to Hooper’s store! You can meet Elmo, Cookie Monster, Abby Cadabby, and some of their other friends (subject to availability). This interactive experience is a blast for everyone, from the littlest fans of Elmo to grown-ups! Elmo and friends are available for photo opportunities throughout the day. Check the SeaWorld website before your visit for more information regarding availability and meet-and-greet times!

Sesame Street Land Attractions for Babies and Toddlers at SeaWorld Orlando

Abby’s Flower Tower
Jump in Abby Cadabby’s flower pots and get a bird’s-eye view of Sesame Street Land! Anyone under 42 inches is required to ride with a supervising companion who is at least 14 years old. Hand-held infants are not permitted on this attraction.

Cookie Drop!
It’s snack time as you bounce up and down in a cookie! Anyone under 42 inches is required to ride with a supervising companion who is at least 14 years old. Hand-held infants are not permitted on this attraction.

Elmo’s Choo Choo Train
Take a ride around and spot fun surprises with Elmo! Anyone under 36 inches is required to ride with a supervising companion who is at least 14 years old. Hand-held infants are not permitted on this attraction.

Slimey’s Slider
Swivel through compost on Oscar the Grouch’s friend Slimey! Anyone under 42 inches is required to ride with a supervising companion who is at least 14 years old. Hand-held infants are not permitted on this attraction.

Sunny Day Carousel 
Go ‘round and ‘round the Sunny Day Carousel on the horse of your choice! You can spot Big Bird at the top and familiar faces on the sides! Anyone under 42 inches is required to ride with a supervising companion who is at least 14 years old. Hand-held infants are permitted on the bench seat.

Flamingo Paddle Boats

An underrated experience for younger visitors is the flamingo paddle boats. Handheld infants are not permitted, but there is no height requirement for children riding with adults! For a 20-minute ride, there is a $6 fee, but this is a great family activity.  Where else can you paddle on the water right next to a rollercoaster? 

Animal Encounters for Babies and Toddlers at SeaWorld Orlando

No minimum height is required — everyone is welcome to enjoy the various animal exhibits SeaWorld Orlando has to offer! You can see sea lions up close and even feed them fish for an additional cost. If you prefer something a little more hands-on, you can visit Stingray Lagoon and touch the rays. This interactive sensory experience is suitable for all ages. You might even catch a keeper talk at select encounters if you are there at the right time.

A few different tours and encounters are offered for a more in-depth interaction with the animals at SeaWorld. Encounters are typically for one animal, whereas the tours are longer and delve deeper into the animal facts. Up-close tours are available for dolphins, beluga whales, sharks, penguins, killer whales, and sea lions. You can reserve an encounter with penguins, walruses, and dolphins!

Live Shows

If shows captivate your children’s attention, you have a few different options at SeaWorld Orlando. The park offers sea lion, dolphin, and, of course, orca shows. Showtimes vary daily, so be sure to check the app or website beforehand so you can plan accordingly! Sitting down to watch a show is a great way to rest your feet and entertain the younger members of your party. Reserved seating can be purchased for select shows and presentations, guaranteeing a great seat without the need to stand in line. This may be a convenient option for larger parties or if you have someone who gets restless while waiting!

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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Make sure you have your ticket in hand to unlock the hauntingly delicious realm that awaits you at Halloween Horror Nights. Learn more about discounted admission through Orlando Informer here!

Vegetarian Halloween Horror Nights Dishes

Eggs in the Further – $11.99
Insidious: The Further, Production Central
Inspired by this year’s haunted house themed to the Insidious franchise, try the Eggs in the Further. This dish features a jalapeño brioche “egg in the hole,” filled with shakshouka and topped with feta cheese.

“Last Key” Pop – $6.99
Insidious: The Further, Production Central
Sink your teeth into a deliciously sweet twist on a terrifying horror movie, a red velvet cake pop adorned with a chocolate key on top.

Twisted Tater – $9.99
Twisted Tater, Gramercy Park
Twisted Taters are a classic Halloween Horror Nights snack, and we are ecstatic that Universal Studios Florida is serving up two delectable vegetarian options this year! Enjoy this iconic spiraled ribbon potato grub with either Garlic Parmesan or Sour Cream & Chive. 

The Frozen Death Chill – $11.99
Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, Gramercy Park
When hunger strikes, who you gonna call? Head over to the Ghostbusters food stand for a unique treat: a Korean corndog-dipped mint cheesecake topped with Bugles and a dash of glitter.

Forbidden Falafel – $10.99
Twilight Tavern, Gramercy Park
Curb your cravings with this refreshing dish: crispy falafel paired with a tomato cucumber salad and tzatziki, all nestled inside a warm pita.

The Bride’s Cake – $6.99
Twilight Tavern, Gramercy Park
After braving the scares, you’ve earned a treat! Indulge in the Bride’s Cake—a decadent, chocolate-coated, three-tier vanilla cake filled with raspberry jam.

Wooden Board Eclair – $6.99
A Quiet Place, New York
Relive one of the most terrifying moments from A Quiet Place with this dessert. Bite into a spicy dark chocolate pastry cream-filled éclair, dipped in chocolate ganache and topped with a bloody chocolate plank. Just try to forget how much you cringed when you first saw this scene on the big screen!

Chocolate Tres Leches – $5.99
Monstruos: The Monsters of Latin America, Hollywood
The Chocolate Tres Leches is a must-try vegetarian dessert, with its perfectly moist, milk-soaked chocolate cake and light, fluffy whipped topping that strikes the perfect balance.

Sinema Popcorn – $6.69
Slaughter Sinema 2, Springfield: Home of the Simpsons
Inspired by this year’s house centered around a night at the movie theater, nothing pairs better with a film than popcorn. But instead of the usual buttery treat, Halloween Horror Nights cranks up the heat with Flamin’ Hot Cheetos-flavored popcorn.

Rocks from Hell – $7.49
Slaughter Sinema 2, Springfield: Home of the Simpsons
While we’re here celebrating Halloween, get into the holiday spirit a little early with these crispy jalapeño and cheddar cheese stuffed lumps of coal.

Vegan HHN Plates 

The Red Door – $9.49
Insidious: The Further, Production Central
Terror may lurk behind The Red Door in the Insidious franchise, but at this food booth, it’s a yummy vegan option that awaits: a savory hand pie filled with seasoned potatoes and onions.

Seasoning Salt Twisted Tater – $9.99
Twisted Tater, Gramercy Park
As we mentioned earlier, Twisted Taters are a staple Halloween Horror Nights dish. Our vegan friends won’t miss out on this classic—they can enjoy a Twisted Tater topped with seasoning salt.

Heart “Beet” Tostada – $7.49
Monstruos: The Monsters of Latin America, Hollywood
Looking for something a bit more filling? Appease your appetite with this red beet tartare, perfectly paired with creamy hummus, vegan feta, and fresh watercress, all served on a crispy tortilla.

Vegan Walking Taco – $13.99
Slaughter Sinema 2, Springfield: Home of the Simpsons
Fuel up with this Vegan Walking Taco, a flavorful medley of Fritos chips, vegan chili, vegan sour cream, lettuce, diablo sauce, and vegan cheddar cheese. It’s a plant-based party in every bite!

Pumpkin Guts – $10.49
Goblin’s Feast, World Expo
Inspired by the fantasy of the Goblin’s Feast house, this dish looks like it’s been plucked straight from a fairy garden. Sink your fork into a blend of butternut squash and zucchini noodles, complemented by crunchy pumpkin seeds and rich vegan butter, all elegantly served inside a roasted acorn squash.

Goblin Pie – $5.99
Goblin’s Feast, World Expo
This treat not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also warms your soul. This baked mini apple pie is the perfect handheld delight as you make your way to the next haunt. It’s drizzled with just the right amount of raspberry sauce, perfectly complementing the apple filling without overpowering it.

African Lentil and Potato Sambusa Coffin – $8.99
Major Sweets Candy Factory, San Francisco 
This Halloween Horror Nights favorite features African-spiced lentils and potatoes entombed in a vegan pie dough. A returning star on the menu for the past few years, it’s become a plant-based staple for those looking for a delicious themed treat.

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

The post Vegan & Vegetarian Options at Halloween Horror Nights 2024 appeared first on Orlando Informer.

This year, the event brings to life major movie franchises like Insidious, Ghostbusters, and A Quiet Place, alongside a medley of Blumhouse films and original stories involving fictional B movies, a murderous birthday bash, crazed candy fiends, and much more.

To help you navigate this extensive lineup, we’ve put together a ranked list of all ten houses and five scare zones, from great to absolute favorites! 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. 

Ready to explore the ultimate fright fest? Let’s dive in.

Haunted Houses at Halloween Horror Nights 2024

10. Triplets of Terror

You’re invited to the Barmy triplets’ 59th birthday party! Junior, Melody, and Harmony – three siblings with a chilling past – have turned their celebration into a spectacle of blood, guts, and gore. In 1984, these relatives, raised in a hoarder’s home, gruesomely slaughtered their family. Every decade, they relive that horrific night, unleashing a murder spree in a new city. This chilling scenario is Halloween Horror Nights’ twist on a classic slasher. We took part in the Halloween Horror Nights Behind-the-Screams: Unmasking the Horror Tour, which includes Triplets of Terror in its 3-house lineup. Check out a lights-on look at this haunt here.

While Triplets of Terror earns points for its creative, original story, particularly with a nod to today’s true-crime podcast culture, a disturbing scene featuring a deceased dog detracts from the intended fear factor. Instead of inducing terror, this moment evokes sadness, which isn’t the emotion we’re seeking at this event.

Read the announcement

9. The Museum: Deadly Exhibits

You’ve scored a ticket to the hottest exhibit in town, The Rotting Stone, but beware—the main attraction harbors a curse. A possessed spirit within causes decay wherever it lingers. We also toured this house before its opening, so make sure to check out our sneak peek here.

Stepping inside The Rotting Stone, you genuinely feel as if you’ve been transported into a museum. The details are incredible, with plaques throughout the house that the creative team has meticulously crafted, containing readable content—if you can manage between the scares, of course. However, the story is somewhat lacking, leading to scares that start to feel repetitive and predictable.

Read the announcement

8. Universal Monsters: Eternal Bloodlines

Universal Monsters is usually a highlight for our team, as it brings iconic characters together each year at Halloween Horror Nights. This year is particularly noteworthy as we anticipate the 2025 opening of Epic Universe and its Universal Monsters area, Dark Universe. Despite typically scoring high in our annual reviews, this year’s Universal Monsters house fell short of our expectations.

Eternal Bloodlines follows the saga of Saskia Van Helsing, daughter of Abraham Van Helsing. Teaming up with the Bride of Frankenstein, they confront Dracula’s daughter, Countess Marya, who, alongside She-Wolf, rises from the dead to avenge her father and obliterate the Van Helsing lineage.

Despite the promising battle of the bloodlines, the execution left something to be desired. While the house’s decor was visually impressive—earning a special place in our Halloween-loving hearts—the scares, unfortunately, felt repetitive once again.

Read the announcement

7. Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire

As a Ghostbusters fan, the Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire house was my most anticipated attraction in the Halloween Horror Nights 2024 lineup. Ghostbusters boasts a rich history at Universal Orlando Resort—a legacy we explore in the house’s announcement—making its return to the park all the more exciting. Inspired by the 2024 film, this house recreates iconic moments and brings back fan-favorite characters, including plenty of Mini-Pufts.

This maze offers a fantastic scene-by-scene recreation of Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, using the spacious location to showcase these scenes on a large scale. However, we missed hearing the iconic Ghostbusters theme song, which only played at the very end, giving it a bit of a “credits rolling” vibe. While we still prefer the 2019 Ghostbusters house, this one was overall a fun experience that shouldn’t be missed.

Read the announcement

6. Monstruos: The Monsters of Latin America

After a successful run at Universal Studios Hollywood’s Halloween Horror Nights last year, the Latin American legends Tlahuelpuchi, La Lechuza, and El Silbón have made their way to Florida’s fright nights. Although a handful of the scares mirror those from the West Coast, Orlando’s creative team has enhanced this take on Monstruos: The Monsters of Latin America with additional scenes, taking advantage of the extra space available here.

The costumes are visually stunning, with La Lechuza being the standout, and the house incorporates animatronics to enhance the experience. Some of our team who saw Monstruos: The Monsters of Latin America during its run at Universal Studios Hollywood’s Halloween Horror Nights noted that it feels completely revamped and fresh this year.

Read the announcement

5. Major Sweets Candy Factory

Let’s revisit 2022 Halloween Horror Nights when the New York area of the park was transformed by the Sweet Revenge scare zone. Here, children transformed into crazed killers after consuming candy from the Major Sweets Candy Factory, unleashing havoc at a Halloween carnival. Fast-forward two years, and we now have the Major Sweets Candy Factory house, a prequel to that beloved scare zone.

Enter the factory just days before the Sweet Revenge events, run by Major Sweets and Miss Treats—characters you might remember from the earlier storyline. They’re on the hunt for taste testers for their new monstrous candy concoction, using children on a field trip as guinea pigs. Watch as the factory worker, Taffy, feeds the sinister sweets to the children, transforming them before your very eyes.

This house was a blast and surprisingly interactive, with three guest-activated triggers (also known as G.A.T.) you can press throughout for extra scares. It’s also become our favorite house to be located in the San Francisco area over the past few years of Halloween Horror Nights.

Read the announcement

4. A Quiet Place

Step into a house where silence isn’t just golden—it’s essential for survival. A Quiet Place house takes you through the events of the first two films in chronological order. With an emphasis on silence, you’ll find yourself wondering how this can be achieved at an event known for its screams. The creative minds behind this house have crafted it as an experimental endeavor: stay quiet, or the Death Angels will find you.

As you step inside, the usual noise of Halloween Horror Nights fades away, providing a rare moment of solace in the dark and quiet—until you realize bloodthirsty Death Angels are right behind you, creating an unnerving sense of dread. These creatures appear to be brought to life through puppetry, adding a unique visual element. There’s also a significant focus on the soundscape, making every subtle noise crucial to the experience. Listen closely.

Read the announcement

3. Insidious: The Further

Step beyond the red door and enter The Further, a realm where demons and insidious spirits take you captive. The creators of this house designed it to immerse fright night guests in a feeling of entrapment and doom, enveloping them in a terrifying hellscape.

Insidious: The Further easily earns the title of the scariest house at Halloween Horror Nights 2024. This house plays on disorienting its patrons, with scareactors appearing in unexpected places, often in quick succession, keeping you on edge. The design also induces a sense of claustrophobia, making you feel as though The Further is closing in around you. For those seeking the ultimate scares, Insidious: The Further is an absolute must-see.

Read the announcement

2. Goblin’s Feast

This house captures the essence of Halloween, teeming with goblins, orcs, giants, hobgoblins, and witches. While they celebrate their holiday festival, you are the intended feast. The experience masterfully blends horror with fantasy, weaving through settings like a tavern, a village, and a forest.

The diverse array of costumes for the fairy tale characters in Goblin’s Feast is truly impressive, featuring everything from stilts to puppets. Located in a new tent designed to accommodate taller elements, the setting not only allows for stilted costumes but also a towering giant water wheel that looms overhead, adding to the fantastical atmosphere.

Read the announcement

1. Slaughter Sinema 2

Easily a fan favorite from 2018, Slaughter Sinema brought the latest B movies to life on the silver screen, featuring adventures in films with sacrificial sororities, werewolf bikers, and murderous barbers. This house inspired subsequent attractions like the 2019 house, Yeti: Terror of the Yukon, and the Meetz Meats snack stand in 2022, further establishing The Carey Drive-In as a cornerstone of HHN lore. Now marked with a “2” for its 2024 sequel, we have been eager to see the new terrors Universal has devised. The original house’s influence extended into the following years—what could this sequel spark next?

We also had the opportunity to preview this house before its opening and have broken down every film featured in Slaughter Sinema 2. Read all about it, including its easter eggs, here.

Slaughter Sinema 2 earns our top spot for Halloween Horror Nights 2024, proving to be a worthy successor to the original. Just like its predecessor, the house features a movie theater screen outside while you wait, hinting at films that may or may not appear inside. If you opt to skip the lights-on walkthrough that we mentioned above, you’ll be in for even more surprises. As you walk through, each corner reveals something new and unexpected, with every movie concept differing greatly from the last.

Read the announcement

Halloween Horror Nights Scare Zones 2024

5. Duality of Fear (Production Central)

For over 33 years, the screams of Halloween Horror Nights guests have been collected within the depths of Universal Orlando Resort, festering beneath the surface until now… they’ve birthed two horrifying realms of fear. Meet SINIST3R, the guardian of physical pain, and SURR3AL, the overlord of psychological torment. As these new icons stand at the gates of their respective domains, you face a choice: which will you brave?

Let’s start with this area’s strengths. This is where SINIST3R and SURR3AL kick off the evening, welcoming guests to a night of fright during the opening scaremony, accompanied by the familiar sounds of scareactors revving their chainsaws. You can also catch SINIST3R and SURR3AL here at the end of the night, thanking guests for joining them. However, beyond this, the zone feels a bit lacking. The decor is minimal, and while it serves as an entryway into each icon’s dedicated area, we were hoping for something with a bit more substance.

4. Demon Queens (Hollywood)

Step into the realm of SURR3AL, the master of psychological torment. Dark portals with eerie scenes dominate the streets of Hollywood, where souls are trapped and overtaken. The central setpiece features a staircase adorned with skulls and spines. Keep your eyes peeled here throughout the night, as this spot is where SURR3AL commands her realm and summons her followers for a thrilling show. The queens in this area, who serve as SURR3AL’s followers, wear intricate and unique costumes that play on psychological fears. Enhanced by fantastic lighting, the atmosphere is set perfectly for this otherworldly nightmare.

3. Enter the Blumhouse (San Francisco) 

Blumhouse Productions has cemented its place at Halloween Horror Nights, becoming a highlight of the event over the years. This year, the Enter the Blumhouse scare zone promises an unforgettable experience with an ensemble of villains from the silver screen, such as M3GAN and The Grabber. To prepare for this experience, consider brushing up on your Blumhouse favorites and hosting your own movie marathon. Line up films like Happy Death Day, Freaky, and The Black Phone to set the stage for this particular haunt. 

Beyond that, this area is a blast, with plenty of recognizable characters throughout the zone. It’s also the ideal spot to snap a picture or two with your favorite Blumhouse faces.

2. Swamp of the Undead (Central Park)

Louisiana is known for its swamps, but the most terrifying one is right here: the Swamp of the Undead. This eerie expanse is overrun with dense foliage, forsaken boats, and zombies in all stages of decay. Dare to step into this living graveyard, and discover the chilling fate of those who trespassed into these cursed waters.

With the lush foliage in this area year-round, it perfectly sets the scene for a swamp. The fog lingers, enhancing the atmosphere and brilliantly recreating the eerie feel of a bayou. The decor is expertly chosen and crafted, creating the perfect hiding spots for scareactors to jump out from and evoking a sense of dread, as if anything could be lurking in the murky waters.

1. Torture Faire (New York)

Like many others, I adore a Renaissance faire. The creative brains at Halloween Horror Nights have taken this beloved concept and infused it with their unique, dark twist, creating the Torture Faire scare zone. Here, guests can explore a grim collection of recreated medieval torture devices with modern supplies, adding a sinister edge to the traditional festive atmosphere.

The cast kept the energy high all night, both in the streets and on the stages, adding an extra layer of excitement to the terrifying atmosphere. With New York being the largest scare zone area, the cast and creatives had plenty of room to create a truly immersive experience, and they didn’t disappoint. Don’t forget to check out the windows of the New York buildings—you might just spot some fun Easter eggs.

Read the scare zone announcement 

Halloween Horror Nights 2024 Shows

Nightmare Fuel: Nocturnal Circus

While “Nightmare Fuel: Nocturnal Circus” at Halloween Horror Nights stands unchallenged in its category and claims the crown by default, its status as the sole contender doesn’t diminish its impressive production. Having occupied the former Fear Factor stage for the last several years, “Nightmare Fuel” annually evolves with new takes on twisted dreams. 

This season introduces a shift from its usual theme, incorporating a heartbreaking love story. The plot centers around a hero who falls for an aerialist at a circus. Tragically, he and the audience witness her death during a performance. Cursed to relive this moment repeatedly, he must find a way to save her.

Despite the emotional storyline, the show remains raunchy and edgy, packed with jaw-dropping illusions, daring stunts, pyrotechnics, aerialists, and more, all designed to push the boundaries of your darkest nightmares.

Read the entertainment announcement 

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

The post REVIEW: Halloween Horror Nights 2024 appeared first on Orlando Informer.

As you step into the vampire’s lair at Dead Coconut Club, complement your evening with a visit to Halloween Horror Nights. Learn how to secure your pass to the horror here.

History of Red Coconut Club Transformations

Since 2022, Dead Coconut Club has become a staple in the lineup of Halloween Horror Nights. It’s now a tradition for the Universal CityWalk nightclub, Red Coconut Club, to feature decor that tells a story alongside its theme. In the past, the venue has showcased Universal Monsters-inspired decor for Halloween, incorporating tropical elements one year and classic movie theater theming in another.

However, the festive spirit isn’t confined to Halloween. For the Holidays at Universal, the club transforms into the Green & Red Coconut Club and for Universal Mardi Gras into the Cursed Coconut Club.

A Look Inside Dead Coconut Club Featuring Blumhouse

This year, Dead Coconut Club rewinds to the 1980s, channeling the vampires of that era. As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by an array of neon signs that scream retro—think “Bite Me” and bat wings—perfect for capturing that ideal Instagram shot. The venue is also decked out with photo-worthy spots featuring coffins and lip sofas adorned with fangs.

Unleash your inner gamer with a lineup of vintage arcade classics like Ms. Pac-Man, Galaga, and Centipede. And as you groove on the dance floor, keep an eye out—you might just spot vampiric versions of iconic music artists like Michael Jackson and Slash moving to the beat.

Step upstairs at Dead Coconut Club to discover a Blumhouse-inspired paradise—or, more fittingly, a hellscape. This space features a bar surrounded by photo ops with characters and props from films like The Purge, The Black Phone, Freaky, Happy Death Day, and M3GAN. Try your best to enjoy a cocktail or mocktail as The Grabber eerily looms nearby, watching your every move.

Dead Coconut Club Menu

Cocktails

Coffin Mojito
Bacardi Superior Rum, Green Chartreuse lime juice, agave nectar, Sprite, soda water, blue glitter and mint
20 oz. Souvenir Cup – $17.50
Refill – $13.50
12 oz. Single Serve – $13.50

Blood Moon Punch
Ole Smoky Tennessee Moonshine White Lightnin’, Gran Gala, cranberry juice, orange juice, lime juice, dragon fruit syrup, grenadine and soda water
20 oz. Souvenir Cup – $17.50
Refill – $13.50
12 oz. Single Serve – $13.50

Daggered Lemonade
Deep Eddy Lemon Vodka, Ferrand Dry Curacao, lemon juice, cranberry juice, orange juice, dragon fruit syrup and Sprite
20 oz. Souvenir Cup – $17.50
Refill – $13.50
12 oz. Single Serve – $13.50

Night Elixir – $17.00
Beefeater London Dry Gin, St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur, The Bitter Truth Violet Liqueur, lime juice, simple syrup and blue glitter

Immortal Thirst
Planteray Stiggins’ Fancy Pineapple Rum, Bols Peach Schnapps, lime juice, orange juice, BG Reynolds Original Orgeat Cocktail Syrup, Dale Degroff’s Pimento Bitters
20 oz. Souvenir Cup – $17.50
Refill – $13.50
12 oz. Single Serve – $13.50

Bleeding Eye
Cuervo Tradicional Plata Tequila, DeKuyper Crème de Cassis, lime juice, agave nectar, ginger beer
20 oz. Souvenir Cup – $17.50
Refill – $13.50
12 oz. Single Serve – $13.50

Death by La Dola
Cuervo Tradicional Plata tequila, cucumber and jalapeño essences, lime juice, simple syrup, and a hint of smoked salt
20 oz. Souvenir Cup – $17.50
Refill – $13.50
12 oz. Single Serve – $13.50
Mocktail – $8.50

Red Velvet Revenge
Cruzan Aged Light rum, blackcurrant syrup, lime juice, mint essence, a hint of smoked salt, and an edible orchid
20 oz. Souvenir Cup – $17.50
Refill – $13.50
12 oz. Single Serve – $13.50
Mocktail – $8.50

Purge Punch
Plantation O.F.T.D rum, coconut cream, pineapple, papaya juice, lime juice, and a hint of smoked salt
20 oz. Souvenir Cup – $17.50
Refill – $13.50
12 oz. Single Serve – $13.50

Factory Made F3AR
Cathead Satsuma Mandarin vodka, DeKuyper Blue Curacao, lemon juice, cranberry juice, sour mix, and sour candy belts
20 oz. Souvenir Cup – $17.50
Refill – $13.50
12 oz. Single Serve – $13.50

Beer & Cider

Crooked Can Bloody Murder IPA
20 oz. Souvenir Cup – $16.00
Refill – $12.75
20 oz. Single Serve – $13.00

Whole Hog Pumpkin Ale
20 oz. Souvenir Cup – $16.00
Refill – $12.75
20 oz. Single Serve – $13.00

Hacker-Pschorr Oktoberfest
20 oz. Souvenir Cup – $16.00
Refill – $12.75
20 oz. Single Serve – $13.00

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

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

Angry Orchard
20 oz. Souvenir Cup – $15.25
Refill – $12.00
20 oz. Single Serve – $12.25

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

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Most of the rides at Walt Disney World have no height restrictions, but as soon as the ride increases in intensity, so does the height minimum. Knowing the height of the youngest adventurers in your group is crucial to avoid heartbreak. A useful tip: Practice measuring your children before your trip so they’re prepared for the official height checks at the park. Remember, these height restrictions are in place to ensure everyone’s safety and must be adhered to. For those not tall enough yet, the rider switch service allows other party members who meet the height criteria to enjoy the ride.

Height Restrictions at Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park celebrates nature through diverse attractions and experiences. Younger visitors will enjoy the Na’vi River Journey in Pandora, while older kids can experience the thrills of Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain. The entire group can enjoy learning about African savanna animals on Kilimanjaro Safaris. 

If someone doesn’t meet the height requirements, make use of the rider switch option mentioned earlier, or sign them up to be a Wilderness Explorer, where they can participate in a free series of fun, nature-themed challenges throughout the park.

38 inches or taller

• Kali River Rapids

40 inches or taller

• DINOSAUR 

44 inches or taller

• Avatar Flight of Passage 
• Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain

No minimum

• Kilimanjaro Safaris
• Na’vi River Journey
• TriceraTop Spin
• Wildlife Express Train

Height Restrictions at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Step onto the glamorous streets of Tinseltown at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, where the magic of the movies seamlessly transitions into the immersive worlds of Star Wars and Toy Story. While this park features rides with a range of height requirements, there’s no need to worry if some of your family members fall short of the mark. Disney’s Hollywood Studios offers Disney Jr. Play and Dance!, a lively show where kids can groove along with beloved Disney Jr. characters and tunes. Plus, right outside the theater, they’ll have the chance to meet some of their favorite Disney Jr. pals in person!

32 inches or taller

• Alien Swirling Saucers

38 inches or taller

• Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
• Slinky Dog Dash

40 inches or taller

• Star Tours — The Adventures Continue
• Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
• The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror

48 inches or taller

• Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith

No minimum

• Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
• Toy Story Mania!

Walt Disney World’s EPCOT Ride Height Requirements

Similar to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, EPCOT explores not just our planet but science, technology, community, and culture. Guests who don’t meet the height requirements for some attractions still have numerous options available. They can also enjoy the Kidcot Fun Stops scattered around the World Showcase. This complimentary offering allows guests to collect activity cards from each country in the showcase, providing a fun way to learn about the different cultures and traditions of each nation.

40 inches or taller

• Mission: SPACE
• Soarin’ Around the World

42 inches or taller

• Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind

No minimum

• Frozen Ever After
• Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros
• Journey Into Imagination With Figment
• Living with the Land
• Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure
• The Seas with Nemo & Friends
• Spaceship Earth

Magic Kingdom Park Ride Height Guidelines

Magic Kingdom Park tops the chart with the most attractions free from height restrictions. This makes it a must-visit on your Walt Disney World vacation if you’re traveling with little ones who aren’t quite tall enough for some of the more towering rides. Beyond the attractions, Magic Kingdom offers a daily parade (though entertainment is subject to change) and an array of character meet and greets that are sure to entertain the youngest of visitors.

32 inches or taller

• Tomorrowland Speedway

35 inches or taller

• The Barnstormer

38 inches or taller

• Seven Dwarfs Mine Train

40 inches or taller

• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
• Tiana’s Bayou Adventure

44 inches or taller

• Space Mountain

48 inches or taller

• TRON Lightcycle / Run

No minimum

• Astro Orbiter
• Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
• Dumbo the Flying Elephant
• Haunted Mansion
• “it’s a small world”
• Jungle Cruise
• Liberty Square Riverboat
• Mad Tea Party
• The Magic Carpets of Aladdin
• The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
• Peter Pan’s Flight
• Pirates of the Caribbean
• Prince Charming Regal Carrousel
• Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover
• Under the Sea — Journey of the Little Mermaid
• Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress
• Walt Disney World Railroad

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 Height Restrictions at Walt Disney World: What You Need to Know appeared first on Orlando Informer.

Until now, details about Stardust Racers have been limited. It’s known as a dueling coaster where thrill-seekers can hit speeds of up to 62 miles per hour and ascend to heights of 133 feet. Complementing the cosmic vibe of Celestial Park, the ride lacks traditional track lighting, which allows its fully illuminated vehicles to mimic shooting stars under the night sky. Today’s reveal brings more details, heightening the excitement as we count down to the grand opening of Epic Universe.

Universal Orlando Resort emphasizes storytelling in its attractions, and Stardust Racers is a prime example. The narrative introduced today reveals that the Celestians, inhabitants of Celestial Park, have mastered the ability to harness the energy from the universe. This power allows them to leap onto comets and surf across the skies.

A highlight from today’s reveal was the “Celestial Spin,” a breathtaking maneuver in which two coaster vehicles execute an inverted crisscross. As they soar through the air, riders can glimpse the other vehicle below before swiftly swapping positions. Today’s release from Universal Orlando Resort included actual footage of this maneuver, showcasing its innovative design.

Additionally, we got a detailed look at the ride vehicles for Stardust Racers. The external lighting is particularly notable, designed to mimic the appearance of comets, aligning with the vision of Universal Creatives.

Stardust Racers is just one of many exciting attractions set to debut at Epic Universe next year. Visitors will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a variety of enchanting realms, including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk,  Dark Universe, and SUPER NINTENDO WORLD. Each area promises unique adventures and immersive experiences, catering to guests of all ages.

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

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

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Here are the current character dining experiences available at Walt Disney World. Please be aware that the characters featured at these restaurants may change without notice.

Character Dining at Walt Disney World Resorts

1900 Park Fare

Tucked away in Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, you’ll find a dining experience that celebrates the beauty, power, and magic of a wish. Here, delightful new characters and timeless favorites will greet you, inspiring you and your party to dream big.

• Location: Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
• Type of foods: American Breakfast and Dinner Buffet
• Characters: Aladdin, Cinderella, Mirabel, and Princess Tiana
• Price range (child / adult): breakfast – $34 / $54; dinner – $41 / $66

Chef Mickey’s

Located in Disney’s Contemporary Resort, join Mickey, Minnie, and the gang, all dressed in their own chef outfits, for a buffet at one of the most popular character dining spots on property.

• Location: Disney’s Contemporary Resort
• Type of foods: American Breakfast and Dinner Buffet
• Characters: Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Goofy, Pluto, and Donald Duck
• Price range (child / adult): breakfast – $34 / $54; dinner – $41 / $66

Cape May Cafe

Start your day with a splash at Minnie’s Beach Bash Breakfast! This breakfast-only event features a buffet where you can join characters dressed in their nautical best. It’s the perfect way to fuel up for a day of adventure and leave you longing for sandy shores.

• Location: Disney’s Beach Club Resort
• Type of foods: American Breakfast Buffet
• Characters: Minnie Mouse, Daisy Duck, Donald Duck, and Goofy
• Price range (child / adult): breakfast – $30 / $47

‘Ohana

Stitch fans won’t want to miss the ‘Ohana Best Friends Breakfast, the perfect spot to meet the most lovable Experiment 626 this side of the Kármán line, along with his best friend Lilo. Joining this lovable owner and her… uh… “dog” is Mickey Mouse and his loyal pal Pluto.

• Location: Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
• Type of foods: Family-style Polynesian & American breakfast feast
• Characters: Lilo, Stitch, Mickey Mouse, and Pluto
• Price range (child / adult): breakfast – $30 / $49

Story Book Dining at Artist Point with Snow White

Enjoy a dining experience nestled under the enchanting boughs of a magical forest, but stay alert—the Queen might be lurking nearby.

• Location: Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
• Type of foods: American three-course meal
• Characters: The Queen, Snow White, Grumpy, and Dopey 
• Price range (child / adult): dinner – $39 / $65

Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera

Discover a haven for artists at heart, complete with a stunning rooftop view. Delight in an à la carte breakfast alongside Mickey and his friends, all wearing attire inspired by their favorite artistic style.

• Location: Disney’s Riviera Resort
• Type of foods: Italian & French a la carte offerings
• Characters: Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and Daisy Duck
• Price range: (child / adult): breakfast – $30 / $49

Magic Kingdom Park

Be Our Guest Restaurant

Explore three unique dining areas, each designed to immerse you in Belle and Beast’s love story: The Grand Ballroom, The West Wing, and The Rose Gallery. This experience features The Beast as the sole character, who greets dinner guests from a distance rather than visiting each table for photos, offering a different interaction compared to other character meals.

• Location: Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom Park
• Type of foods: American and French three-course meal
• Characters: The Beast
• Price range (child / adult): lunch & dinner – $41 / $70

Cinderella’s Royal Table

Have you ever dreamed of dining inside Cinderella’s Castle? This enchanting restaurant invites you to feast with your favorite Disney Princesses in a truly magical setting. For an extra special experience, book a coveted late-night reservation and enjoy your meal as fireworks light up the sky.

• Location: Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom Park
• Type of foods: American Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
• Characters: Disney Princesses
• Price range (child / adult): breakfast – $42 / $69; lunch & dinner – $49 / $84

The Crystal Palace

Just off Main Street, U.S.A., The Crystal Palace offers a beautiful, Victorian greenhouse-like atmosphere where you can celebrate friendship every day with your pals from the Hundred-Acre Wood.

• Location: Main Street, U.S.A at Magic Kingdom Park
• Type of foods: American breakfast, lunch, and dinner buffet
• Characters: Winnie the Pooh, Tigger, Eeyore, Piglet
• Price range (child / adult): breakfast – $30 / $48; lunch & dinner – $40 / $61

EPCOT

Akershus Royal Banquet Hall

Take a break from your world travels to dine with some Disney princesses, savoring foods from Norway within a castle fit for royalty.

• Location: EPCOT’s Norway Pavilion
• Type of foods: Family-style Norwegian and American cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• Characters: Disney Princesses
• Price range (child / adult): breakfast – $35 / $55; lunch & dinner – $43 / $67

Garden Grill Restaurant

Enjoy a meal of farm-fresh choices that will please the whole family at this revolving restaurant, which offers scenic views overlooking Living With the Land.

• Location: EPCOT’s The Land Pavilion
• Type of foods: Family-style American cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• Characters: Mickey Mouse, Pluto, Chip and Dale
• Price range (child / adult): breakfast – $30 / $47; lunch & dinner – $40 / $62

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Hollywood & Vine

Hollywood & Vine offers a choice of character dining experiences tailored to different preferences. Breakfast is ideal for the little ones, as they’ll get to hang out with their favorite Disney Junior stars. For lunch and dinner, enjoy a seasonal buffet that varies with the time of year, where you can spend quality time with Minnie and her friends.

• Location: Echo Lake at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
• Type of foods: American breakfast, lunch, and dinner buffet
• Characters: breakfast – Fancy Nancy, Vampirina, Doc McStuffins, and Goofy / lunch & dinner – Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Pluto, and Goofy
• Price range (child / adult): breakfast – $30 / $47; lunch & dinner – $40 / $63

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Tusker House Restaurant

Celebrate Donald and his friends’ recent expedition right in the heart of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, where you can savor dishes inspired by African cuisine.

• Location: Africa at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park
• Type of foods: African and American breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• Characters: Donald Duck, Daisy Duck, Minnie Mouse, and Goofy
• Price range (child / adult): breakfast – $30 / $47; lunch & dinner – $40 / $62

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 sneak peek is courtesy of the Halloween Horror Nights Behind-the-Screams: Unmasking the Horror Tour. This daytime “lights on” experience offers an in-depth look at the Halloween Horror Nights houses. With a guide highlighting details easily missed during the night’s frights, it’s an excellent choice for die-hard fans or those who prefer to appreciate the artistry without the scares. Our tour covered three houses, but a six-house option is also available. For more details on this immersive tour, check out our comprehensive guide here. 

Dear reader, proceed with caution – spoilers lurk just ahead!

Slaughter Sinema 2

This season, Halloween Horror Nights takes us back to a beloved haunt – The Carey Drive-In. For newcomers or those unfamiliar with its history, this location has been featured multiple times since its debut in a 2015 scare zone, later evolving into the backdrop for two haunted houses. The Carey Drive-In has also permeated other aspects of the event, including food stands and mazes, enhancing its haunted lore. Dive deeper into its story with our Slaughter Sinema 2 announcement here. 

A beloved highlight from 2018, Slaughter Sinema, brought to life previews of the latest B movies on the silver screen, setting the stage for adventures into films featuring sacrificial sororities, werewolf bikers, and murderous barbers. Now, with a “2” indicating its sequel status in 2024, we’re eager to see what new horrors Universal has concocted. We are in luck, as today’s tour offered us a first glimpse!

Like its predecessor, guests will be greeted with trailers on an outdoor movie screen, previewing the eight fictional films featured inside the house. Each section, or “flick,” is distinctly marked by a movie poster, signaling a transition in scenery.

Slaughter Sinema 2 kicks off with Mardi Gras Murders, set in an apartment that truly embodies the spirit of “letting the good times roll” a little too far. Amid the chaos of Jell-O shots, scattered liquor bottles, and vomit, the true horror emerges from jesters wearing cap and bells crafted from their own flesh.

Next up in our lineup of frightful film features is “Heavy Metal Hell 3D.” In this picture, a teen plays a record backward, unwittingly opening the gates to a realm that lives up to its name: Heavy Metal Hell. This segment features some 3D effects, so keep in mind that it’s BYO3D – bring your own 3D glasses!

For any diehard Halloween enthusiast, the arrival of the Christmas season might seem like a buzzkill. However, Universal cleverly embraces the holiday twist with its next horror flick, “Killer Kringles.” Here, guests venture through Santa’s twisted workshop, where Kriss Kringle keeps the naughty-list kids in his bag—not for coal, but for Mrs. Claus to feed their elves. As you step into this macabre scene, you’re greeted by the “Killer Kringles” movie poster featuring Mr. and Mrs. Claus portrayed by real-life master Character Designers from Halloween Horror Nights!

In 2022, the Bugs: Eaten Alive house tapped into the widespread fear of insects by featuring creepy crawlies supersized by Bzzzcon. In Slaughter Sinema 2, Bzzzcon unveils fresh terrors in the fictional film “Night of the Undead Clowns.” Here, Bzzzcon’s disposal of contaminated liquid into a clown graveyard reanimates the resting corpses into zombies.

Slaughter Sinema 2 takes a turn to the Wild West with “Hatchet and Chains: Demon Bounty Hunters.” In this thrilling narrative, Chains is a rugged human bounty hunter, and Hatchet is his demonic counterpart. As the action unfolds, you find yourself caught in the midst of their supernatural showdown.

The fabricated film Blood and Chum transports guests to a classic horror backdrop—summer camp. A shark has infiltrated the lake, preying on every camper who dares to take a dip. Despite the chaos, the counselor declares that camp will go on—come rain, shine, or rampant gore. Visitors will be thrilled by the animatronic shark head puppet, nicknamed Megaladoom by HHN designers, featured in this segment of the house.

Slaughter Sinema 2 weaves the tale of “Mummy Strippers Unwrapped.” In this story, Tommy Two Thumbs, a strip club owner, turns a sarcophagus that tumbled out of a truck into a piece of decor for his venue, Mummy’s Room Adult Lounge. Little did they know, this ancient relic would awaken, with the mummies inside beginning to drain the life essences of patrons and allowing Tommy to keep his life in exchange. Additionally, fans of Halloween Horror Nights lore will spot a familiar face: Tim Foyle, known from Case Files Unearthed: Legendary Truth and rumored to have unleashed the horrors of Halloween Horror Nights upon Universal Studios Florida. He’s depicted here as one of the unfortunate victims of Mummy’s Room Adult Lounge.

In the climactic finale of the house, “Zyborgs” unveils a terrifying vision of the future where machines scavenge for human body parts to expand their mechanical army. As you navigate through this movie, beware. It’s a fun play on those classic B-movies featuring hybrid creatures like the “half-man, half-ant.”

And a little insider secret: each of the Halloween Horror Nights haunted houses has a code name before its reveal. Slaughter Sinema 2 was given “Cobbler.” each house will feature its dessert hidden somewhere within its walls, as well as a hidden animal—this year, it’s a snail. Keep your eyes peeled for these Easter eggs!

The Museum: Deadly Exhibits

Are you ready for a night at the museum? Brace yourself for an evening at The Rotting Stone Museum, a place left to decay and crumble, for a guided audio tour. As you travel further into its corridors, the house’s disintegration becomes increasingly apparent, with the rot setting in and your audio guide distorting.

Amid the narrative and jumpscares, keep your eyes peeled for a special cameo. Tucked away among the exhibits, you’ll spot the Mama Bear from Scary Tales: Deadly Ever After, featured in Halloween Horror Nights 2018.

Remember the code names that we mentioned earlier? The Museum: Deadly Exhibits has been codenamed “Baklava.”

Check out some more of The Museum: Deadly Exhibits below!

Triplets of Terror

Misfortune comes in threes, a fitting theme for our next Halloween Horror Nights house on the tour. Triplets of Terror delves into the gruesome Barmy family murders, where the triplets chillingly reenact their family’s demise as a macabre birthday celebration every ten years. 

We start off at the scene of the original 1984 crime on the triplets’ ninth birthday, where they infamously slaughtered their family at 3324 Wichita Lane (a nod to 2024 marking the 33rd year of HHN). Fast forward to 2024, and you’re thrust into the midst of a buzzing True Crime community, surrounded by newspaper clippings and the puzzled discussions of podcasters trying to unravel the mystery of the murders. A newly unearthed Super 8 film from the first crime scene emerges as a pivotal piece of evidence.

Adding a twist to the narrative, a familiar thrill-seeker will spot an unexpected connection: Jack the Clown, known in his previous life as Jack Schmidt, appears on an evidence bag as a detective on the case. 

Progressing through the house, you enter the kitchen of the Johnson family in Cradleton, Pennsylvania, surrounded by relics from the original murder: cake ingredients, a dog, a bat, and a baseball glove. These items serve as a calling card, with the triplets infamously mirroring the methods of their first crime, though they sometimes slightly alter their tactics. The terror escalates when the triplets target the Johnson family’s dog, previously seen in the 2019 Depths of Fear house.

Next, we follow the triplets to a garage-turned-man cave, where they brutally kill a man to collect the tools needed to recreate their initial crime. The journey continues through an alleyway with the town drunk and a corridor between a butcher and a baker shop. Keep an eye out for a bulletin board listing weekly specials, each a code name for this year’s houses, with Triplets of Terror named “fudge.” 

Entering the butcher shop, we witness one triplet has chosen a meat cleaver as their weapon, adding the butcher to their list of victims. The horror culminates in a slaughter party where the triplets unleash their terror, massacring characters introduced earlier in the house.

The mystery of their escape unfolds as we discover a sewer, their suspected route to freedom, while searchlights sweep overhead in a futile search for the elusive murderers.

Learn More About Halloween Horror Nights

This is just the beginning of what’s in store at this year’s Halloween Horror Nights. The three mazes featured are part of an extensive lineup featuring ten haunted houses, including standout themes like Ghostbusters and Insidious, along with five scare zones and showstopping entertainment. Experience these haunts on select nights from August 30 through November 3. 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 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

The post Halloween Horror Nights 2024 Houses: FIRST LOOK appeared first on Orlando Informer.

Prepare to sink your teeth into the details. 

Enter the Blumhouse – Run a terrifying gauntlet of Blumhouse characters. From The Grabber to M3GAN dancing into your nightmares, this is a new kind of horror. 

Torture Faire – Enter this Renaissance Faire, where only the bravest souls dare to face the medieval torture devices. Can you endure the torment, or will you beg for mercy?

Swamp of the Undead – In the backwaters of Louisiana, zombies risen from the bodies of trespassers killed and dumped in a nearby bog are lurking. Are you ready to face the terror?

Duality of Fear – As soon as you enter Halloween Horror Nights, you must choose between two paths: the horror of SINIST3R or the terror of SURR3AL. 

Demon Queens – Four merciless queens loyal to SURR3AL haunt this otherworldly hellscape ripped from the darkest corners of the mind.

These scare zones complement the array of offerings at Halloween Horror Nights, including Insidious: The Further, Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, and Nightmare Fuel: Nocturnal Circus, among many others. Check out these haunts on select nights from August 30 through November 3. 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 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

The post All Five Scare Zones Announced for Halloween Horror Nights 2024 appeared first on Orlando Informer.

Top Snacks to Try at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom Park

Imagine entering Magic Kingdom Park, strolling down Main Street, U.S.A., gazing at Cinderella’s Castle, listening to the harmonies of the Dapper Dans in the background, and just then, your stomach starts to rumble. That can really take the magic away from any moment. But don’t just settle for anything! Magic Kingdom Park has so many fun and delicious snacks and treats to choose from.

One of my absolute favorites is located right outside of the Adventureland entrance in a little cart off to the side. They only carry one food item, but it’s so delicious that on busy days, the line can stretch farther than the eye can see. I’m, of course, talking about the spring roll cart. You can almost always bet they will have their famous cheeseburger spring rolls ready to go, but there’s typically another type of spring roll on offer — choices might include pizza, Reuben, buffalo chicken, and many others. Be sure not to miss this stand on your next visit.

Feeling a little more peckish than just a couple of spring rolls can handle? Sleepy Hollow in Liberty Square is set to satisfy! This quick service location serves famous Mickey waffles in many different varieties. If you are craving something on the savory side, check out the Mickey Waffle with Sweet-and-Spicy Maple Chicken. If you have a sweet tooth, the Mickey Waffle with Chocolate-Hazelnut Spread and Bananas is a decadent treat, while the Mickey Waffle with Berries and Cream is sure to make anyone happy. Sleepy Hollow is also available for mobile orders, so be sure to utilize it to skip that line.

Looking for a tasty treat to cool you down on a hot Florida day? Head over to Aloha Isle behind The Magic Carpets of Aladdin in Adventureland. This little spot has some of the best tropical desserts in all the parks. Whether you go with something like the Tropical Serenade or a cup of good old-fashioned pineapple DOLE Whip, you will not walk away disappointed.

Must-Try Treats at Walt Disney World’s EPCOT

It is incredible to be able to explore multiple different countries and their cuisines in the convenience of one park. EPCOT has so much to offer that it is hard to pick only a few snacks to highlight. So, I am going to touch on the snacks that are my absolute must-gets every time I go to the park.

Pizza is a common theme park food, but it can vary in quality. However, the pizza from Pizza al Taglio in the Italy pavilion is among the best you’ll find anywhere, not just in a theme park. That may sound like a bold claim, but it truly is exceptional. The crust is fluffy yet crispy on the outside, the sauce is rich and flavorful, and the cheese pull is simply out of this world. They offer margherita and pepperoni options by the slice, and the portions are quite generous. The service window is tucked away towards the back of the pavilion, right next to Via Napoli. With no posted operating hours, if you find it open, be sure to seize the opportunity and enjoy!

As you wander through the World Showcase and enter the Germany pavilion, you’ll be greeted by an overwhelming, sweet aroma that makes you wonder where it’s coming from. That amazing scent is fresh Werther’s caramel wafting from Karamell-Küche. This little shop has plenty of treats to choose from, and all of them are just as delicious as the next. One of the snacks they are most known for is the fresh Werther’s caramel popcorn they make daily. Karamell-Küche also offers delicious and well-themed caramel apples. But my go-to item is the Butter Bar. It’s a buttery shortbread bar generously infused with Werther’s caramel, and I can’t help but do a little happy dance with every bite. No matter which treat you choose, you’re sure to find yourself doing a happy dance of your own!

Snacking at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

While Disney’s Hollywood Studios is mostly known for their amazing rides and incredibly themed lands, their snack game is nothing to laugh about. Some of my absolute favorites are located here.

If you find yourself needing a snack while walking down Sunset Boulevard, head towards Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith, and you’ll find a little cart called Pretzel Palooza. Now, by all means, you can snag a Mickey pretzel if you really want one, but the best pretzels are the ones that are stuffed! Choose between cream cheese and (my personal favorite) cheddar and jalapeño. These stuffed pretzels are so delicious and very filling for under $10. Everyone in your party will be sure to enjoy!

Now we’re heading to a galaxy far, far away on a planet called Batuu for our next must-have snack. The Ronto Wrap can be found at Ronto Roasters in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and is perfect for when you need something with a little more substance. The sausage has a nice snap to it, and the slaw on top is a perfect complement. If you find yourself craving a Ronto Wrap after 3 PM when this dining location closes, have no fear! You can still enjoy a Ronto Wrap at Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo instead. Both of these locations have a mobile order option, so don’t miss out on skipping the line.

Have a hankering for a delicious chocolate chip cookie? Well, you’re in luck because Disney’s Hollywood Studios has one of the best. Located at the Market stand near Toy Story Land, Jack-Jack’s Num Num Cookie is a giant, delectable treat that’s sure to put a smile on anyone’s face. Just be sure to grab some napkins— they do not hold back on the chocolate chips!  

Bites at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

A day at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park is always a wild time! Between the immersive rides and the amazing shows, you’ll be sure to feel snackish at some point throughout your day.

One of the simplest yet delicious food items Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park offers is grilled corn on the cob at the Harambe Fruit Market. You can order it with or without the special African spices sprinkled on top. This snack is perfect for on-the-go use but not too heavy for a long park day.

While exploring the Asia section of the park, you’ll come across a stand called Mr. Kamal’s. They offer a few items that are ideal for sharing or enjoying solo. The chicken dumplings are tasty, but the seasoned fries are truly top-notch. They also serve these with a sriracha mayonnaise dipping sauce that perfectly complements the fries.

One of the best and most unique bites can be found in Pandora – The World of Avatar, right next to Satu’li Canteen. At Pongu Pongu, they serve a snack called the Pongu Lumpia, which I personally adore. This large spring roll is filled with pineapple cream cheese and served warm. It offers a sweet yet slightly savory flavor that might not be for everyone, but I highly recommend giving it a try—you might find yourself pleasantly surprised!

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The post Best Walt Disney World Snacks: Top Picks for Your Visit appeared first on Orlando Informer.

Now, let’s explore Rider Switch!

How Rider Switch Works at Walt Disney World

Here’s a quick rundown of the Rider Switch program: Part of your group joins the traditional queue while the rest wait with the non-riders. Once the first group exits the attraction, those who are waiting can enter the queue. However, instead of using the standard queue, the second part of the party will enter through the Lightning Lane, making the wait much quicker. This system ensures that everyone in your group gets a fair chance to enjoy the rides they want without feeling left out or rushed.

Arranging Rider Switch at Walt Disney World

If you would like to use Rider Switch, first speak to a Cast Member near the front of the attraction. Many rides now have a dedicated area for discussing Rider Switch, indicated by a sign. If you see this, approach the Cast Members there. If there’s no sign, talk to a Cast Member near the attraction’s entrance, and they will direct you where to go.

Have your Magic Bands, phones, or tickets ready, as the Cast Member will scan the tickets of those waiting back first. This process adds a Rider Switch return to your account, allowing you to scan into the Lightning Lane once the initial group has returned to take over supervision of the non-riding guest. 

Walt Disney World Rider Switch Benefits

If you have small children who don’t want to (or are unable to) ride the big attractions, Rider Switch allows them to enjoy other parts of the park, have a snack, or rest while others in your party ride. Once the first group finishes, the second part of the Rider Switch enters through the Lightning Lane, making a speedy arrival to the front of the line. This efficient system ensures that everyone has an enjoyable time engaging in activities suited to their preferences.

Walt Disney World Attractions Offering Rider Switch

Many of the rides you may use Rider Switch for have a height requirement, but not all. To assist in your planning, I’ve gathered a list that includes the rides offering Rider Switch and their height requirements. 

Magic Kingdom Park

• Tomorrowland Speedway: 32 inches
• The Barnstormer: 35 inches
• Seven Dwarfs Mine Train: 38 inches
• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad: 40 inches
• Space Mountain: 44 inches
• TRON Lightcycle / Run*: 48 inches
• Tiana’s Bayou Adventure*: 40 inches 

EPCOT

• Mission: SPACE: 40 inches
• Soarin’ Around the World: 40 inches
• Test Track: 40 inches
• Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind*: 42 inches
• Frozen Ever After: no height requirement 

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

• Alien Swirling Saucers: 32 inches
• Slinky Dog Dash: 38 inches
• Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run: 38 inches
• Star Tours – The Adventures Continue: 40 inches
• The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror: 40 inches
• Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith: 48 inches
• Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance: 40 inches

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

• Kali River Rapids: 38 inches
• DINOSAUR: 40 inches
• Avatar Flight of Passage: 44 inches
• Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain: 44 inches
• Na’vi River Journey: no height requirement 

*All Rider Swap participants for this attraction are required to be in a Virtual Queue boarding group or to have an eligible Lightning Lane Single Pass prior to boarding.

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So grab your broomsticks, and let’s soar into this magical world!

Explore the Attractions at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic in Epic Universe

This world offers parkgoers and Harry Potter fans first-time access to the British Ministry of Magic, a pivotal location in both the Harry Potter books and films. Known as the governing body for the magical community in Great Britain and Ireland, the Ministry of Magic comes to life in Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry. Here is how Universal described this new offering: 

The adventure begins when guests travel by Métro-Floo – a unique mode of wizarding transit inspired by the iconic Floo Network seen in the films – to journey from wizarding Paris to the British Ministry of Magic for the long-awaited trial of the infamous Dolores Umbridge. Upon arrival, guests will enter the Ministry’s jaw-dropping grand atrium and venture through other departments before boarding magical, omnidirectional lifts to watch the trial take place…until Umbridge attempts to escape. Guests then join Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, and a house-elf named Higgledy in a thrilling chase that will propel them up, down, forward, backward, sideways, and more throughout the Ministry as they try to capture Umbridge – all while dodging attacks from Death Eaters, rampaging creatures and more along the way. 

The attractions don’t stop there! Step into the big top of Le Cirque Arcanus, a live stage show inspired by the circus featured in Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald. Prepare to be amazed by live performers and aerialists, amazing puppetry, brilliant special effects, and fantastic beasts like you’ve never seen before! 

While exploring the streets of Place Cachée, guests may encounter other visitors, officials, and residents from the wizarding world, including exchange Students from the Hogwarts and Ilvermorny Schools of Witchcraft and Wizardry, an Auror from the Ministère des Affaires Magiques de la France who roams inquiring of suspicious characters, talking portraits of delightful wizards who engage with locals about the happenings in Place Cachée, and more.

Given the caliber of The Wizarding World’s attractions at Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, visitors can expect an array of truly unforgettable experiences.

Dining in The Wizarding World

The existing lands of Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley at Universal Orlando Resort have already delighted us with a taste of British cuisine, offering dishes like Beef Pasties, Bangers & Mash, and classic Fish & Chips. Now, it’s time to savor French culinary delights in this new Wizarding World of Harry Potter location.

First on the list is Café l’Air de la Sirène, adorned with carved marble and intricate details of fantastic beasts hidden within the tile and mosaic designs. The menu features French sandwiches, plats du jour, and desserts. Nearby, Le Gobelet Noir is a hotspot for Dark witches and wizards to gather and escape the prying eyes of the Paris Ministry. Amidst whispered secrets, guests can enjoy options such as soups and salads, as well as a variety of entrées and desserts.

Don’t miss out on visiting Bar Moonshine, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic’s watering hole, for some delightful bevies, amidst an atmosphere of U.S. Quidditch team pennants and other items of wizarding Americana. 

Speaking of delicious beverages, no trip to The Wizarding World is complete without a Butterbeer! Be sure to grab a cup of this frosty drink at the Bièraubeurre Cart.

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

There is no doubt that a wand is an essential accessory when exploring The Wizarding World. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic introduces a new shopping destination for this magical tool at Cosme Acajor Baguettes Magique, a Paris-based store featured in Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald. In addition to imports from Ollivanders, visitors will find a selection of wands packaged in this shop’s signature three-sided boxes, each containing a list of locations throughout the wizarding world where guests can practice casting spells.

As guests explore the streets of wizarding Paris, they can use their interactive wands to cast spells at various locations, interact with fantastic beasts such as Nifflers, Bowtruckles, and a Demiguise, and engage with enchanted objects in many of the storefront windows and other areas throughout the Place Cachée.

Shop Ministry of Magic-inspired items at the Métro-Floo gift shop, cleverly named Tour en Floo. Les Galeries Mirifiques plans to offer a range of goods, including wizarding gear and memorabilia. Those looking for a sweet treat can visit K. Rammelle for a delicious confectionery spread.

Learn more about Epic Universe

There is even more to be excited about! The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic is merely one of five immersive worlds at Epic Universe. Upon the park’s opening in 2025, visitors will also be able to explore Celestial Park, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk,  Dark Universe, and SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, each offering its own unique adventures and experiences.

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

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Although it may seem like a fairly nondescript town, Carey has been something of a spool of just about every tale woven into the fabric of HHN. Icons like Jack the Clown and The Caretaker have roots in Carey, Ohio, as do the event’s mainstay butcher shop, Meetz Meats. Carey, Ohio is so deeply rooted within HHN lore that the event dedicated a house in 2021, Welcome to SCarey: Horror in the Heartland, to some of the fictitious township’s most notable houses and scare zones from years past.

So, what is it about this quaint little town that binds it to so much horror? Such a question prompted us to look into Carey’s ties to Halloween Horror Nights by building a timeline via the backstories of past houses, scare zones, and event icons. Before we do, we’ll remind you that Halloween Horror Nights 33 will run on select nights from August 30 through November 3. Remember to secure your discounted single-night tickets from Orlando Informer to make sure you and your entire scream squad are prepared.

Now then, let’s uncover the mysteries of Carey, Ohio.

Carey, Ohio – From Carae to SCarey

The fictitious township is named after its real-world counterpart, the hometown of a member of Universal’s Art and Design team. When these creatives needed a location for a backstory, this member suggested his own hometown, and that was that. While the reason at the time was simple enough, the truth was that it made more sense than one might realize. Sure, a quaint village named after an honorable judge, home to just over 3,000 residents, might seem an unlikely base for horror stories. Yet, Ohio has not only been the setting for numerous horror movies but has also been home to some of America’s most notorious killers, making it the perfect backdrop for Halloween Horror Nights.

As we mentioned, just about everything in HHN lore can be connected to Carey, Ohio. Although it seems as if it’s always been a part of the event’s history, Carey was actually only first mentioned by name in the 2008 scare zone titled The Skoolhouse. This was a semi-sequel to the 2005 house simply titled Skool, which did not mention the township of Carey. However, a deeper look reveals a connection that dates back to the 16th century in Carae, France, which is the sister city of the Ohio township. This connection marks the gruesome origins of Carey’s ties to Halloween Horror Nights.

Carey, Ohio: 1500s – 1970s

Catacombs: Black Death Rising (2010)

In 1534 France, a viral plague ravaged the regions surrounding Paris and Marseilles. The outbreak was so great that a group of doctors deemed it necessary to quarantine the infected in the French Catacombs to contain the spread. While their efforts were noble in spirit, they couldn’t have been more wrong. Imprisoned against their will, the infected took to uprising, locking the doctors with them in the legendary catacombs for 500 years.

Five centuries later, the infected prisoners escaped. Having been trapped and suffering from the virus for so long, the doctors and townsfolk, both living and dead, had returned with a hunger for vengeance that knew no bounds.

Twisted Tradition (2018)

After the events in France, the first of many cases in America took place around 300 years later. The direct connection between France and America isn’t clear, but what is known is that German immigrants settled in the township of Carey, Ohio. Not long thereafter, a man named Ernst Meier restored an abandoned pumpkin farm to great success. Word was heard throughout Carey, and Ernst let the town know that they could harvest his pumpkins once Halloween came around. Just one thing — he needed help! As he was only one man, he employed the local children to whom he promised each a pumpkin as a reward.

The township was excited as this was the beginning of one of their newest traditions but grew worried after some time when their children hadn’t come home with their families’ reward. The concerned citizens took to Ernst’s farm and were horrified by what they witnessed. Ernst was chanting an unearthly incantation while stirring child-sized gourds filled with blood and pumpkin guts around a large bonfire. Enraged, the townsfolk overtook him in an attempt to rescue their kids. As punishment, they declared that he be burned at the stake for his misdeeds. Ernst let out a villainous, slow laugh before responding that his masters would appreciate their assistance in finishing the rites of his incantation. Despite his ominous warning, the townsfolk threw Ernst into the bonfire as he continued chanting before burning to death.

Unaware of what they had unleashed—and possibly originating Carey’s terrible curse—the townsfolk buried the gourds. Years passed as Ernst’s farm once again lay overgrown in the forest, and stories of creatures made from pumpkin, vine, and wood wandering its surroundings spread throughout the township. The creatures have been said to serve an ancient evil, seeking sacrifices for their otherworldly masters. Much like Ernst’s farm, this is often to great success.

The Skoolhouse (2008)

The first in a string of related events began in 1908 at Carey Elementary School when one of their teachers, Mary Worthington, went missing. If Mary’s name has a familiar ring to it, that’s because she’s directly connected to the icon, Bloody Mary. Worthington vanished after a prank orchestrated by the school groundskeeper, Aldridge Hesterson, and six students. The specifics of the prank are unclear, but the following morning, Carey Elementary’s Headmaster, Mr. Renshaw, opened the school the next day to a scene covered in blood and shattered glass.

Although a case of suspected murder was opened, Worthington’s body was never recovered. However, a strange energy began to overtake the school, and on Halloween, a seemingly possessed Mr. Renshaw and his usually respectful, well-behaved students went on a special field trip. Their mission: to teach the township of Carey a terrifying lesson in fear.

Were the two events related? Perhaps that’ll be revealed later, as this was hardly the end of Bloody Mary’s story.

The Orfanage: Ashes to Ashes (2010) and Cindy Caine

Most of the records of the 1920 tragedy at Good Harvest Orphanage have been lost to time due to a strange fire at the children’s home, but most of the tales seem to involve a child named Cindy Caine. Cindy was said to have had a difficult childhood as she was quiet and mostly shunned since her arrival at the orphanage. Over time, she discovered that she possessed pyrokinetic abilities, which enabled her to exact fiery revenge against those who had wronged her at Good Harvest. Harnessing her newfound powers, she burned Good Harvest to the ground, settling scores with its staff and orphans.

Cindy Caine’s story is both promising and unfortunate. She was meant to be an icon for both 2002’s Halloween Horror Nights: Islands of Fear and Halloween Horror Nights: Twenty Years of Fear in 2010. Unfortunately, she was replaced on both occasions. Later revelations disclosed that she is the daughter of Dr. Albert Caine, also known as The Caretaker, deepening her connection to Carey, Ohio. While the full extent of Good Harvest’s tragic story may remain shrouded in mystery, Cindy Caine continues to lurk within the darkest recesses of Carey and Halloween Horror Nights.

Afterlife: Death’s Vengeance (2013)

In 1933, the good residents of Carey, Ohio finally saw the end of serial killer, Bobby “The Blade” Guletta after five murderous months of terror. Between June and October, Guletta had slain 22 victims, displaying their remains prominently as if wanting his “trophies” to be found while ensuring that he never left enough clues to his whereabouts.

Guletta was eventually tracked down with the help of one of his attempted victims, Susan Snowdon. She escaped from the old sawmill where she was being held and where Guletta had already murdered others. Guletta, true to his inferred ego, was heard provoking the executing policeman to pull the switch before his execution.

Following his execution, Bobby Guletta’s fate was ultimately sealed in the afterlife, where he was eternally tormented by various demons and his long list of victims. Although this wicked story stands alone within the annals of Carey, Afterlife: Death’s Vengeance is a notable house mainly in part because it is the first non-comedic house to use 3-D technology and one of those that utilizes a revolving tunnel as part of its effects.

Leave it to Cleaver (2009)

In the 1950s, the first of many cases involved local hero Samuel Meetz. Sam gained notoriety over the years after inheriting his family’s business, Meetz Meats. After generations of success, the Great Depression took a hard toll on the butcher shop. Sam’s father, keen on keeping the family business intact, decided that the best course of action was a change in livestock.

The new meat was a hit, even granting Samuel Meetz with a pop-up booth, The Meetz Locker. The source, Carey’s various vagrants and riff-raff, was only known to the Meetz employees and select others, but no one complained! It proved to be addictively delicious, kept the streets clean and crime-free, and was a great way to be rid of any snoops finding their way to the Meetz factories.

Aside from the meat’s source, the strangest part about the Meetz Meats products is their odd effect when consumed. During a case at Universal Palace Theater, movie attendees found a severed finger in the establishment’s latest hot dog offerings produced by Meetz Meats. Reports claimed that after eating the refreshment, the patrons couldn’t stomach any non-meat foods and even became ravenous with hunger.

Since appearing in the Leave it to Cleaver house, Sam Meetz, Meetz Meats, and its mascot, Meaty Meetz, have reappeared various times over the years, making it a staple for both HHN and Carey’s lore. Mike Aiello, Universal Orlando Resort’s Senior Director of Entertainment and Creative Development and a key figure behind Halloween Horror Nights, originally portrayed Sam Meetz in the house’s queue video.

Dead Exposure (2008)

One case is so prominent that it caught the unwitting eye of Charlie McPherson. McPherson was a natural-born photographer who received his first camera at a young age from his father, Shawn. His love for the art grew, and he eventually found himself among the staff of New York’s Metropolis Tribune and, later, a freelance photographer who’d often work alongside Private Investigator Boris Shuster. During this time in his career, McPherson would see grisly images while taking photos whenever his camera flash would go off. The sights were so horrifying that it led him to the offices of Dr. Mary Agana who specialized in new, sometimes extreme, ways of treating fear.

While under her care, he was also treated for claustrophobia, and during one of his sessions, Dr. Agana placed him in an airtight box with his camera’s flash bulb, which projected the horrifying images on the box’s walls. The treatment? Either he faces his fears of both claustrophobia and the images, or he suffocates. Although Dr. Agana informed Charlie that he simply had to open the box’s lid to escape, his fear held such a grip on him that he slowly suffocated to death in the glass coffin.

What’s especially interesting is the underlying connection the two of them have. Charlie McPherson is the son of Shawn McPherson, who was one of the children involved in the disappearance of Mary Worthington — the grandmother of Dr. Mary Agana. Charlie’s death even had an odd effect on Dr. Agana as it provided her with an unexpected thrill. This led to her slowly going insane and killing other patients as a way of conquering her fear of death. Furthering the connection, it’s also believed that Mary Worthington may have been slowly possessing Dr. Agana via the possessions the latter inherited, such as silver jewelry and a music box. As for Charlie, his body had also disappeared, but his death wasn’t the end of his torment. He’d become trapped in a zombie apocalypse within the realm of reflections, where he’d eventually become a zombie himself.

Reflections of Fear (2008)

Charlie McPherson’s disappearance inevitably caught Boris Shuster’s interest. The further he dove into Dr. Agana’s past and her other missing patients, the more suspicious he became of her practice. Eventually, Boris became a patient of Dr. Agana to investigate her further. Each time he visited her office, he’d continuously find evidence of Dr. Agana experimenting on her patients, including Charlie. He also noticed that each time he visited her, Dr. Agana became increasingly younger, and she began talking to her music box.

As time went on, Dr. Agana began to become aware of Boris’ intentions, which prompted him to escape her as she attacked during their session. Boris attempted to return and arrest Agana with backup but couldn’t find her. What they did find was a shattered mirror in her office and signs of an attack.

Following the arrest attempt, it’s revealed that while Dr. Agana did die that day, she would join her ancestor as the entity Bloody Mary in the Mirror realm. The events that took place also prompted Boris Shuster to found the Legendary Truth. The mainstay collective in HHN lore would be responsible for investigating many other cases within the event — including the accidental release of Adaru, or Fear itself.

Wicked Growth: Realm of the Pumpkin (2021)

The last documented case in the 1950s is when Carey returns us to a pumpkin patch owned by Mr. Carver. Similar to Ernst, Carver was renowned in Carey for his pumpkins, which the township would harvest and carve every year for their Halloween celebrations. However, unknown to the township, evil was growing within the soils and vines of Carver’s farm, which was a reason Carver’s pumpkins had grown so plentiful and large.

A local witch, Grimalkin the Summoner, and her sister, Locasta, had been assisting their dark leader, the Pumpkin Lord, in his return. His time back with us was short-lived, but his days walking amongst the township of Carey were still gruesome. While it seems to be a somewhat isolated occurrence, it does bear a strong resemblance to the events of Twisted Traditions in that one can’t help wondering just how related this incident was to Ernst’s farm all those centuries ago.

Wicked Growth: Realm of the Pumpkin is noteworthy for many reasons. This house is linked to a brand new event icon, The Pumpkin Lord, and has also inadvertently introduced a cute new character, Lil’ Boo. Within the house was also a plethora of callbacks from years past, including tie-ins to the Caretaker and a connection to Slaughter Sinema’s Pumpkin Guts movie by way of the Mr. Carver character.

H.R. Bloodengutz Presents: Holidays of Horror (2011)

In the 1970s, Lady Luck, the shapeshifting icon for 2011’s Halloween Horror Nights, made her appearance in Carey, Ohio. The entity had made contact with Larry Kurtzberg, an actor who was desperate for his next big role, under the guise of his agent. She offered him the role of H.R. Bloodengutz, the host of Midnight Horror Show, a horror variety program produced in Carey’s WKNB studio. Given the choice between this small-town show or his agency no longer representing him, he took the clear choice.

As the show went on, Larry enveloped himself within the role in every way, even demanding that he only be referred to as his character. As his obsession progressed, his show became increasingly disturbing, affecting its ratings and ad revenue. This was noticed by WKNB producer John Reynolds, who regrettably informed Larry that the show had to be canceled. Upon hearing this, Kurtzenberg kidnapped Reynolds and the production crew of Midnight Horror Show, putting them through obscene and terrible torture resulting in the death of the WKNB producer.

Modern-day horror in Carey, Ohio

Screamhouse (2002), Screamhouse: Revisited (2003), Screamhouse: Resurrection (2006)

There are many occurrences in Carey that don’t contain a specific date but can be assumed to take place in modern times. The first of which concerns Shady Oaks Cemetery, run by Dr. Albert Caine, better known as The Caretaker, and his family. Rumors ran throughout Carey that the Caine family were a strange bunch. They were said to look of varying ages, with an implied question of them being undead due to connected stories involving zombies. It’s also said that they often experimented and entertained themselves with the corpses of the town’s loved ones, often dancing with them. This was confirmed by two teens who took it upon themselves to snoop on the family, stirring the townsfolk and prompting the police to begin an investigation.

In an angry rage, the families of Carey set fire to Shady Oaks Cemetery. Once the fire and smoke cleared, although Shady Oaks Cemetery was burned to the ground, the only remains that were found of the Caine family were supposedly that of Cindy. A long series of tunnels that seemed to stretch for miles outside the township were later found. While the question as to whether the Caine family escaped the fire, a research team was dispatched to investigate later reports of ghoulish voices, strange howls, and moans coming from the ruins of Shady Oaks.

It’s important to note that although Cindy’s story takes place much earlier in the lore, Cindy actually appears twice here (officially and unofficially). In HHN 2003’s Screamhouse: Revisited, Cindy appears in the house’s kitchen scene with another character believed, but never confirmed to be, her unnamed brother. She’d later have her first official appearance in the 2006 sequel house, Screamhouse: Resurrection.

The Spawning (2009)

On a night like any other, a group of teenagers were seeing a movie at Universal Palace Theater. A few of them had gotten in trouble with the theater staff for being rowdy during the flick, which led to them all being kicked out and banned. Sometime later, they snuck back into the theater via the emergency exit on the night of their prom and were never seen again. Following reports of them missing, the police found no evidence of them in any part of the Palace Theater — until something prompted them to search the sewers under the building.

What they found was something out of a horror movie as they encountered a scene of torn and bloodied prom tuxedos that belonged to the teenagers. Their whereabouts remain a mystery, but all evidence led to foul play. Since then, locals of Wyandot County called in sightings of two-foot tall, snake-like creatures they’ve named “Sculders” within the sewers. A group of volunteers were sent to investigate reports of something tampering with the county’s water flow. Was this related to the Sculders? Only they would know for sure.

In addition to The Spawning’s setting of Wyandot County, the house’s first scene is identical to Dead Exposure, which provides a deeper connection to Carey’s influence in the event. This house would also be one of those revisited in Welcome to SCarey: Horror in the Heartland.

Legendary Truth: The Wyandot Estate (2010)

Years after their establishment, The Legendary Truth branched off to a smaller faction, the Spirit Seekers. Their biggest case brought them to the Wyandot Estate, a home built by Malcolm and Lydia Wyandot. The elaborate home served as the setting for a dinner party in which Malcolm brutally killed his thirteen guests, his wife, and himself on October 30, 1929.

Decades later, the township would tell stories of their ghosts haunting the decrepit Wyandot Estate, prompting the Spirit Seekers to investigate using a machine to summon the ghosts. What they received was more than they’d anticipated, as the tortured souls brought with them terrible violence. While there were some survivors of the resulting spiritual encounter, the main crew of the Spirit Seekers hasn’t been seen since.

Legendary Truth: The Wyandot Estate was another house revisited in a portion of Welcome to SCarey. Even more interesting, however, cameras were installed at portions of Legendary Truth: The Wyandot Estate, providing live cyber feeds of each night’s scares.

Lunatic’s Playground 3D (2016)

Over a few years, Carey continued to face some hardships involving disappearing teens at Carey’s Hartford Mansion in 2012 and a derailed convoy train carrying mutant soldiers in 2013. However, one case takes prominence as it involves Chance, Jack Schmidt’s sadistic assistant. After over a decade of horror, Jack had been returned to his box imprisonment, and Chance was committed to Shady Brook Rest Home and Sanitarium. As fate would have it, Chance escaped her holdings and began reaping havoc within Shady Brook. Although she was eventually recaptured, it didn’t come without casualties of both patients and staff.

Halloween Horror Nights 17 and Lunatic’s Playground are especially noteworthy because Chance took the role of that year’s icon. The house provided us with a great portrayal of Chance’s blurred reality while at Shady Brook. It also helped add more to the ever-expanding story of her and Jack within HHN lore as it told what happened directly after Halloween Horror Nights 25. It even showed us that Chance was more than Jack’s mere sidekick and worthy of being an event icon.

Slaughter Sinema (2018) and The Carey Drive-In

The Carey Drive-In theater had been closed to the public for years with good reason. Tragically, it became the murder site of movie patrons in its early years, causing it to be shut down. Decades later, in 2015, after reports of strange activity at the movie theater, a brave few were drawn in to investigate, only to discover their favorite horror movies were coming to life — literally! It was lights, camera, and carnage as they would find their fate sealed in cinematic blood. While the source of this has never been confirmed, one only wonders if there was truly someone behind this or the theater itself.

Three years later, the theater returned to life, seemingly hungry for more bodies. This time luring locals in with the promise of B movie showings, a movie type that had become popular with the times. Patrons flooded the theater to catch films like Pumpkin Guts, Cult of the Beast Baby, and Barber Chop only to realize that, once again, the movies had sprung to life from the flickering screens! While the fate of the theater’s victims was certainly tragic, it’s worth noting that the plots of each movie seem to resemble much of Carey’s history. One has to wonder just how much of it is truly fiction and how much of it is telling the story of days gone by.

When it comes to the Carey Drive-In theater, it’s been a landmark in Carey, Ohio since 2015 with the scare zone, All Nite Die-In: Double Feature, and returned in house form in Slaughter Sinema. This house was especially entertaining and groundbreaking for multiple reasons. The movie posters preceding each section of the house featured numerous references to past icons such as The Caretaker and Jack Schmidt. Additionally, the set for Barber Chop was located in Morton Meetz’s Barber Shop. Does that name sound familiar? Additionally, its Attack of the Swamp Yeti portion was also responsible for inspiring the Yeti: Terror of the Yukon house in 2019.

Many of these houses were revisited in HHN 2021’s Welcome to SCarey: Horror in the Heartland. 2024 will mark another return to the Carey Drive-In with Slaughter Sinema 2, a sequel to Slaughter Sinema. Those like this writer are especially excited to see what’s in store.

The township of Carey, Ohio, is such a recurring location in HHN lore that one wonders what we haven’t uncovered. Indeed, horror has found a home in the fog and shadows of the heartland.

Learn more about Halloween Horror Nights in our insider’s guide, then discuss it all with 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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Fans will encounter Saskia Van Helsing, a new fearless huntress and daughter of revered Abraham Van Helsing – who killed Count Dracula by driving a stake through his heart and destroying his reign of terror. Saskia now faces Dracula’s daughter, Countess Marya, who arose from the dead to seek revenge for her father and destroy the Van Helsing bloodline. With a mission to kill, Dracula’s daughter, from 1936’s Dracula’s Daughter, forms a deadly alliance with the She-Wolf, inspired by the 1946 film She-Wolf of London, and Anck-Su-Namun, from the 1932 film The Mummy – only to be intercepted by Saskia and an unlikely ally, The Bride of Frankenstein. The terrifying adventure will take guests on a journey between the hunted and the hunters in a life and death battle with only one bloodline left to survive.

While we always anticipate Universal Monsters’ presence at Halloween Horror Nights, this year is even more exciting. Once Epic Universe opens in 2025, the eerie world of Universal Monsters will be celebrated year-round at Dark Universe. This area is packed with attractions, dining, and shopping that celebrates legendary horrors like The Wolf Man, Dracula, Phantom of the Opera, and more things that go bump in the night.

Dare to face the next generation of horror? Check out Universal Monsters: Eternal Bloodlines at Halloween Horror Nights 2024, running on select nights from August 30 through November 3. 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 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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Personalize a Walt Disney World Birthday Button

If you’re venturing to Walt Disney World for your birthday, there’s a good chance you already know about your most important accessory: the birthday button. When you get to the park, inquire about a button at any guest relations or merchandise location to see if the cast member has any birthday buttons on hand. They may even offer to personalize it for you.

If you want to make your button extra special while visiting Magic Kingdom, ask for it to be left blank. Then, walk on over to the Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe in Liberty Square and have your button customized there. You may need to wait a few hours while Cast Members work on your birthday accessory, and this customization isn’t free. However, the resulting button features your name beautifully written out, perfectly capturing that birthday magic.

Donning your button, don’t be surprised if Cast Members greet you and wish you a “Happy Birthday” throughout your day. This is especially fun during the Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade, so be sure to catch a spot up front to soak up the excitement from beloved Disney characters.

Grab a Dining Reservation

To make the most of your day, consider planning a special meal. If you’re spending the full day at your chosen park, there are several great dining options at every location. I have a few birthday favorites that you and your family are sure to love as well.

At Magic Kingdom Park, Liberty Tree Tavern offers a huge meal that basically amounts to Thanksgiving dinner with all the trimmings. Be Our Guest Restaurant is also a fantastic option if you’re seeking a magical, movie-inspired dining experience, complete with a visit from The Beast himself.

EPCOT has delicious offerings from around the globe, but Biergarten Restaurant in the World Showcase is one of my favorites. Prepare for a massive German feast with selections such as bratwurst, rotisserie chicken, and pork schnitzel. If the guest of honor is a sushi lover, check out Shiki-Sai: Sushi Izakaya for plates inspired by Japan’s seasons and festivals.

As you’re soaking up the glamour of Tinseltown at Hollywood Studios, make your way to The Hollywood Brown Derby for some delicious food and drinks. For fans of a galaxy far, far away, Oga’s Cantina brings some out-of-this-world cocktail offerings that perfectly mesh with a birthday celebration.

Having a wild time at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park? Head on over to Yak & Yeti Restaurant for a menu with a little something for everyone. I love this place because it’s delicious, and it’s usually easy to snag a seat. You won’t be disappointed!

At select dining locations, you can add a magical touch with a Mickey Mouse Celebration Cake delivered right to your table during your meal. Secure your cake by ordering in advance when you book your table online or through the My Disney Experience app. Prefer to arrange things in person? Simply place your order at the restaurant’s host podium at least four days before your reservation.

Caught in a last-minute bind? Don’t worry! These restaurants often keep a limited stock of cakes ready for those spur-of-the-moment celebrations, available upon request when you arrive.

Secure those Virtual Queues

Be sure you have those alarms set bright and early for 7 AM to nab those virtual queues for some of your favorite rides. Enhance your EPCOT birthday celebration with a spin through time on the Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. At Magic Kingdom Park, snagging a ride on TRON Lightcycle / Run will get that birthday off to an incredible start.

Before you sign in to secure a virtual queue spot on the My Disney Experience app, make sure your party is set up to increase your chances of success in the morning. Most of the time, these spots are gone in mere minutes. However, if you miss out on the first opportunity, try again at 1 PM once you’re inside the park. I’ve had great success snagging spots later in the day, even if I didn’t succeed in the morning.

Make it a Special Walt Disney World birthday

Walt Disney World Resort offers some unique experiences to make a birthday extra special, no matter who is celebrating! For instance, if you’re celebrating an adult’s birthday, consider booking a spa treatment at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. There’s nothing like feeling fully pampered before spending a day at the parks.

For little ones dreaming of becoming princes or princesses for the day, consider booking a makeover at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique. Here, your child can choose their outfit and receive makeup, sparkles, and all the magical touches that make them feel like royalty, especially on their birthday.

To finish off the day, consider a dessert party reservation with Happily Ever After lighting up the sky. Except on the busiest days, you can often book reservations for these dessert parties for the same evening. This experience costs $92.95 for guests aged 10 and above and $55.39 for kids ages 3 to 9. These parties aren’t held daily, but you can check the calendar ahead of time to confirm availability for your visit and even schedule well in advance.

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Nightmare Fuel: Nocturnal Circus

Halloween Nightmare Fuel has set the Fear Factor Live stage ablaze for the past three years, captivating audiences with its thrilling pyrotechnics, daring aerial performers, and mind-bending optical illusions. Each year, the saga of twisted dreams grows more elaborate, and this year promises to elevate the spectacle even further. Here’s what Universal is saying about this year’s iteration of night terrors:

Step right up to a dark circus, a new nightmare that carries with it a sinister curse. It’s a thrilling spectacle of pyro and aerialists.

The Nightmare Fuel story has taken control of the Fear Factor Live amphitheater since 2021. Before this fiery series of performances, the Academy of Villains dance troupe dazzled as they took the stage with various acrobatics and theatrics. 

Academy of Villains was preceded by a cornerstone of Halloween Horror Nights history, Bill & Ted’s Excellent Halloween Adventure, after its 26-year run. Bill & Ted’s Excellent Halloween Adventure parodied the best in pop culture of the previous year, altering its storyline from one HHN season to the next. 

Watch nightmares come to life before your eyes during Halloween Horror Nights 2024, which runs on select nights from August 30 through November 3. 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 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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Crafted by Bolliger & Mabillard, the engineers behind attractions like SheiKra and Kumba, Phoenix Rising is a family-friendly suspended rollercoaster. Riders will ascend aboard the legendary Phoenix, gliding through the Pantopia section of the park. This coaster reaches speeds of up to 44 miles per hour and soars along 1,831 feet of twisting track, peaking at 80 feet above ground.

The experience begins the moment you enter the queue, where you’ll be introduced to the personalities of the four phoenixes, each setting the tone for the adventure ahead. During your ride on Phoenix Rising, you will essentially take flight with one of these fantastical creatures. Here’s a glimpse into each phoenix:

Aqua: Protector of the ocean realm

Ignis: Protector of the desert realm

Glacius: Protector of the mountain tops and glaciers

Terra: Protector of the rainforests

What truly sets this ride apart is its unique onboard audio system. Each train, seating 20 passengers across 10 rows, features original audio tracks tailored to each phoenix. This audio perfectly synchronizes with every twist and turn, making every moment on Phoenix Rising truly unforgettable. An added touch we appreciated was the under-glow lighting on each ride vehicle, which matched the colors of the phoenix we were riding with.

During our visit, we had the pleasure of riding twice—first with Aqua and then with Glacius. Though the soundtracks for each ride slightly differed, common elements like the flapping of wings on the lift hill and various phoenix cries throughout the journey added a magical touch.

Our experience on this new coaster was nothing short of fantastic. It strikes a perfect balance between thrilling and family-friendly, making it an excellent introduction to the park’s more intense rides, like the nearby suspended coaster, Montu. 

Experience the magic of Phoenix Rising at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay once it opens on July 21, and ignite your savings by securing discounted tickets through Orlando Informer here!

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Inspired by Latin American folklore, this house brings visitors face-to-face with three monsters of legend: Tlahuelpuchi, La Lechuza, and El Silbón, with El Muerte, the spirit of Death, acting as their guide.

While this maze is brand new to Orlando, it first appeared in Universal Studios Hollywood, where it became a hit among our West Coast friends, even opening the way for a sequel house just announced for Hollywood’s 2024 season – Monstruos 2: The Nightmares of Latin America. As we wait in anticipation for Florida’s iteration, we can use what we know from both of Hollywood’s Monstruos houses and Universal Orlando Resort’s official announcement, as well as the traditional stories Monstruos is inspired by, to get a taste of what to expect at Halloween Horror Nights 33.

Before we get too far, we should remind you that Halloween Horror Nights 33 runs on select nights from August 30 through November 3. If you’re like us and anxiously counting the days, you can purchase discounted single-night HHN tickets through us!

Now, gather your Scream Squad as we step into the dark world of Monstruos: The Monsters of Latin America.

Who are the creatures in Monstruos: The Monsters of Latin America?

La Muerte

While La Muerte isn’t specific to Latin America or even technically a monster, we should first touch on how they became our journey’s guide. While she’s known by many names, La Muerte (or simply translated: “Death”) is better known as Santa Muerte, or the Saint of the Dead, throughout Mexico.

In many cultures, there are some variations of the personification of Death, and we can expect Universal Orlando Resort’s creatives to put their unique spin on her. Generally, La Muerte is perceived as a woman, though she bears a familiar look as a hooded skeleton and holds a scythe.

Aside from her scythe, she’s also commonly seen holding a globe, but she isn’t restricted to just these two items. She also possesses an hourglass and an owl. Each of La Muerte’s items has a symbolic meaning, with the scythe representing her reach with its lengthy handle, the blade representing life’s beginning and end, and it overall serving hope and prosperity since it’s a common farm tool. Other items like the globe and hourglass have similar meanings to not only the scythe but also each other as they represent La Muerte’s presence across the world, her omnipotence, and that death isn’t necessarily the end since the hourglass can be inverted.

La Muerte, as our guide in Monstruos, is fitting as she’s known within a multitude of cultures for so much more than being a collector of souls. La Muerte’s appearance can seem horrific, but she’s actually a very benevolent spirit and is known as a powerful protector. As the visitors of Halloween Horror Nights encounter the monstrous legends of Latin America, one can’t help but wonder about the price of safety under the watch of such a powerful entity.

Tlahuelpuchi

Tlahuelpuchi is a vampiric witch that originates in Mexico and is thought to have origins dating back to the Aztecs. What’s especially scary about them is that a tlahuelpuchi could be anyone. Though they’re commonly women, they’re the product of an unpredictable curse that doesn’t show itself until around puberty. Once it’s in effect, the tlahuelpuchi must feed on blood once a month, or else they die.

When hunting and in the public eye, Tlahuelpuchi will shapeshift to blend in, taking on the form of a turkey vulture or another species of bird. Although much of their behaviors and abilities have a vampiric lean, they’re also mystic practitioners, performing rituals to change their form and claim victims. For example, before shapeshifting, the tlahuelpuchi must set a roaring fire in the middle of the floor of their home using specific woods and spices. They must then walk back and forth through the flames and detach their legs before becoming their chosen animal. Once they’ve chosen their victim, they must fly over their prey’s house in a cross formation before they can enter.

It should be noted that tlahuelpuchi take no pride in what they have to do, and because of this, they exist almost entirely in hiding once their curse reveals itself. Adding to these tragic circumstances, their family is obligated to protect them by any means necessary, lest the member who doesn’t abide by the curse will become one themselves. This rule has led to family members going so far as to help hide the tlahuelpuchi or even assist in their hunt for blood.

La Lechuza

By definition, La Lechuza’s name may not translate to anything scary as it’s the Spanish word for “owl,” but don’t let that drop your guard! Much like La Muerte, this monster is known by a few names in the regions of Mexico from which she hails, and many versions vary on how she became “the Owl Witch.” The majority of legends tell of a woman who was wronged in some way by either a man or her village, which led her to make a deal with the Devil to reap her vengeance.

Shifting our gaze to La Lechuza’s appearance, she’s widely accepted to appear as a gigantic barn owl with a fifteen-foot wingspan and the face of a woman of varying age as she also can shapeshift. Often, she’ll become a humanoid owl with talon-like fingers that emphasize her witchy appearance.

La Lechuza’s owl-like appearance is also more than a cryptid fashion choice. Within Latin legends, owls were messengers of Death and a bad omen, and La Lechuza is no different in this regard. To dream of her is said to be a prediction of the death of a family member or loved one.

Aside from this, the Owl Witch has quite a few supernatural powers at her disposal as well. She can manipulate the weather, is generally considered to be immortal, and is immune to most weapons. Additionally, if someone attempts to kill La Lechuza or touch one of its feathers, they’ll die.

In terms of her victims, La Lechuza will draw them out by mimicking the cries of a baby or whistling with her supernaturally alluring voice. Those who hear it are beckoned to investigate the noise, and by the time they come to their senses, it’s already too late.

El Silbón

El Silbón (or “The Whistler) is one of this author’s favorite monsters. His origin story has quite a few interpretations, but the more popular one in Venezuelan and Colombian culture tells a tragic tale along the lines of Romeo and Juliet. A teenage boy falls in love with a girl his father disapproves of. Despite his father’s requests that they cease seeing each other, the couple continue their courting until one day, the boy’s father catches them in his barn. The father, in a fit of rage, murders the girl in front of his son. Equally enraged with vengeance, the son retaliates by taking his father’s life.

To cover up what just transpired, the boy dismembers his father’s corpse, removing the meat from the bones, which he hides in a sack. He takes the meat to his mother, who uses it for their dinner, not knowing where it actually came from. Upon serving it to her family, the mother realizes the heartbreaking truth. After some time, the boy’s paternal grandfather arrives home and punishes the boy upon learning of his misdeeds. The grandfather ties the boy to a post, violently whipping his back and pouring lime juice, salt, and alcohol into his bloody wounds. After the boy is finally released, his grandfather condemns him to carry the sack filled with his father’s bones for all eternity. As the boy shoulders the grim burden and takes his first cursed steps, the grandfather sets the family’s hunting dogs on him, driving the boy into the nearby woods.

It isn’t clear exactly how or when the boy’s appearance changed, but what’s known is that it was drastic — he became a tall, gangly, ghoulish creature said to average between nine ant twelve feet tall. He also still bears the now-tattered farming clothes and hat he wore when he was punished.

Although El Silbón doesn’t need to feed upon his victims, that doesn’t mean he won’t exact his insatiable vengeance on an unsuspecting mortal. It’s been said that you can hear the bones in his sack clattering as he travels, and if you hear his namesake, an upward whistle — be wary! If the whistle sounds near, he’s actually some distance away. However, if the whistle sounds as if it’s from a distance, that poor soul’s fate is already doomed to be a part of El Silbón’s bone collection.

The Monsters of Latin America: A Haunting Presence at HHN

For anyone unfamiliar, this isn’t the first time the creatives behind Halloween Horror Nights have explored the monsters of Latin America. Over the years, we’ve made several trips to Latin America during the event. In 2022, Universal Studios Florida’s Halloween Horror Nights featured Fiesta de Chupacabras, a house steeped in the legend of the Chupacabra. Here, a seemingly innocent celebration in a Latin American village concealed a gruesome truth, as the festivities were tainted with the blood of tourists.

In 2013, HHN Orlando dipped its toes into Latin American folklore with Urban Legends: La Llorona after the concept had seen several years of success in Hollywood. Based on the legends of the Weeping Woman, this house brought guests to an old Mexican church and what’s presumed to be the funeral of one of La Llorona’s victims. Almost immediately upon entering and frequently throughout the house, they’re attacked and shown victims of the Weeping Woman. As they navigate through the house, the cries and weeps of La Llorona can be heard, often alongside the literal streams of those who have suffered at her hands. In this author’s opinion, it wasn’t a house for the faint of heart due to its nature, but it was very well executed. La Llorona was even so well received that the character also appeared in the ICONS: HHN house during HHN 25.

When Monstruos makes its appearance at Universal Studios Florida, a familiar take should be expected. This would include the monsters’ appearances, the set design, and some of the storytelling. With that said, some liberties could be taken to help differentiate Orlando from Hollywood. This could be the case with either the lore or the house. For instance, Fiesta de Chupacabras was only loosely based on the monster’s mythology, and Urban Legends: La Llorona at Universal Orlando Resort utilized roughly half of the original set from Hollywood.

In any case, Monstruos: The Monsters of Latin America is sure to be a house worthy of the entire Scream Squad at Halloween Horror Nights 33.

Learn more about Halloween Horror Nights in our insider’s guide, then discuss it all with 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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Embrace the legend of the phoenix on this family-friendly suspended thrill ride. Busch Gardens invites guests to glide over the Serengeti Plain while reaching speeds of up to 44 miles per hour and covering a distance of 1,831 feet of track. Elevating the experience, Phoenix Rising is the first coaster in Busch Gardens Tampa Bay to feature onboard audio, providing riders with a one-of-a-kind soundtrack that enhances their journey.

Check out our sneak peek of Phoenix Rising, which includes additional attraction details and an onboard POV of the ride.

Phoenix Rising opens at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay on DATE. Prepare for this epic ride by purchasing discounted admission to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay through your pals at Orlando Informer here.

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Enter The Further as demons try to ensnare you. The Red Faced Demon will lure you into his lair. KeyFace will unlock your fears. And more.

The Insidious franchise, produced by Blumhouse Productions, has chilled audiences with its tales across five films: Insidious (2010), Chapter 2 (2013), Chapter 3 (2015), The Last Key (2018), and the most recent, The Red Door (2023). Centered around the Lambert family, these films weave a narrative of paranormal encounters. With two more installments to the franchise on the horizon, the fright is far from over.

The Insidious saga, perfect for the ambiance of Halloween Horror Nights, first made its debut at the event in 2015. Scream squads experienced a journey through the first three films in a single house, where the dead sought passage back into our world through the living.

Fast forward to 2017, when The Horrors of the Blumhouse haunted house combined the nightmares of Insidious, Sinister, and The Purge. That same year, the Altars of Horror scare zone unleashed the most fearsome characters from that season’s lineup onto Production Central, including some of the imagery from the Insidious franchise. 

Although Insidious has taken a brief hiatus from Halloween Horror Nights, Blumhouse Productions’ presence remains strong. Since their debut at the event in 2014 with The Purge: Anarchy, Blumhouse has consistently brought fear to life at Universal Studios Florida. The Horrors of the Blumhouse haunted house made a comeback in 2018, terrifying guests with scenes from Happy Death Day and The First Purge, and again in 2022, combining the horrors of Freaky and The Black Phone.

Even without a dedicated house last year, Blumhouse still captured the spotlight at HHN with their M3GAN horde, whose killer dance moves dominated the streets of Universal Studios Florida.

Halloween Horror Nights 2024 runs on select nights from August 30 through November 3. 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 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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Gather your bravest friends and face what lies in the fog. What nightmares lurk in the shadows of the handful of haunted houses? Which ghastly creatures roam the numerous scare zones waiting for you? 

This year promises extra excitement at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay as they mark the 25th anniversary of Howl-O-Scream. To commemorate this occasion, they are introducing a dedicated scare zone where the past 25 years of Howl-O-Scream nightmares come to life. This promises to be an epicenter of terror, inviting guests to walk through a quarter-century of the most memorable scares.

For those fearless souls among us, we at Orlando Informer are offering a deal that’s too good not to scream about. Score your Howl-O-Scream tickets at prices starting at $40, saving up to $79.99 in the process. Click here, if you dare, to claim your ticket to an evening of frights. 

Embrace the darkness and gear up for a night at Howl-O-Scream that you won’t soon 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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Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure Height Requirements

Before you take off on this unique “story coaster,” make sure you and your ride companions are 48 inches (122 cm) or taller. This goes for both the motorbike and sidecar.

Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure Story

Join the Wizarding World’s beloved half-giant, Rubeus Hagrid, as he guides you through the sprawling grounds of Hogwarts and beyond into the mysterious Forbidden Forest. As you cruise along, marvel at the blast-ended skrewts, mentioned in the books but unseen in the films, and prepare for close encounters with magical favorites like the three-headed Fluffy and the mischievous Cornish Pixies. But of course, since Hagrid is in charge, you might encounter a few hiccups, but don’t worry – nothing Hagrid can’t get you out of! 

This truly is a one-of-a-kind coaster that tells you a story as you ride. At various points in your journey, you’ll experience changes in pace – slowing down to marvel at enchanting sights and speeding up for thrilling moments (more details to come). All the while, you can hear Hagrid’s voice and other sound effects coming through the speakers and, of course, see a variety of magical creatures along the way!

Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure Ride Vehicle

The ride vehicle is an enchanted motorbike that Arthur Weasley and Hagrid have created in an attempt to duplicate the very one in which Hagrid first delivered Harry to Number 4 Privet Drive. 

You’ll be sitting side by side, the motorbike on the right and the sidecar on the left. Both sides have a lap bar that will keep you securely in place. That said, be sure to try out the test ride vehicle ahead of time to see which side you might prefer. 

Both sides offer a fun and thrilling experience on this incredibly unique coaster! For those who might be hesitant to ride, consider choosing the sidecar, which provides a more traditional ride experience. However, I’ve found that gripping the bike’s handlebars immerses you deeper into the story, helping to distract you from any fear. 

Side note: If you are wearing your house robes, you will NOT be permitted to ride on the motorbike. You’ll need to either ride in the sidecar or tuck your robe safely into one of the lockers before your ride. This Hufflepuff found that out firsthand on a recent visit!

Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure Ride Experience

The best way to try before you ride is to watch a ride-through video. Here’s one to give you a sneak peek!

Speed

Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure is a launch ride, meaning that you’ll be shot forward at faster speeds during several points during the ride, seven in total for his particular coaster! As Hagrid says, “Dragon fire’s got a kick!” The launches occur throughout the ride, usually after you have slowed down to see a “scene” such as the blast-ended skrewts or Fluffy. Feel the rush as you reach top speeds of 50 mph (80 km/h).

Direction

There are no inversions in this ride. Can’t have anybody falling off of their motorbike, after all! At one point of the track, you’ll propel upwards at a 70-degree angle to 65 ft (20 m) before descending backward. Immediately after, you’ll move in reverse for approximately 25 seconds before stopping and gently dropping approximately 17 feet (5 m), then continuing forward for the rest of the trip.

Length

Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure is the longest ride in Florida at nearly a mile in length! (5,053 feet or 1540 m) The ride lasts a little over 3 minutes.

Height

There are no top hats or major hills on Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. You are more or less pretty even-keeled around the track with some twists and turns, with the exception of the aforementioned 17 ft ascension and subsequent drop.

Other features

This is considered a family coaster, but it includes several notable elements. Before the drop, riders are backed into a dark cave, accompanied by mild light effects. Additionally, you’ll encounter light water misting throughout the ride.

If you choose not to ride…

I know that it sounds counterintuitive to wait in line for a ride you don’t want to ride, but, hear me out – the queue for Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure is not to be missed. As you walk down the path, you’ll see the snowy rooftops of Hogsmeade Village, Hagrid’s Hut, and a picturesque view of Hogwarts Castle before you get inside the main building. You are also surrounded by lush trees and foliage, making you feel like you’re walking right into the Forbidden Forest.

As you approach the “ruins” where the motorbikes are, you’ll see a gorgeous mermaid statue and other ancient-looking decor. Once inside, if you remember the Dueling Dragons coaster—also known as Dragon Challenge, the previous attraction in this area—you’ll spot several subtle Easter Eggs. After all, dragons are certainly magical creatures! 

As you move further through the cavernous queue, you’ll see a magnificent fireplace fit for Hagrid himself, dragon eggs, books and journals about magical creatures, amazing contraptions, and so much more. There’s even a preshow where you’ll see Mr. Weasley himself and another fan favorite – Hagrid’s dog, Fang!

If you choose to enter the queue but decide not to ride, there are several designated exit points where you can safely leave. Additionally, once you are near the ride platform, team members can assist with any questions or needs, including facilitating a child swap, allowing adults to ride while younger guests opt out and wait.

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

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We witnessed the first day of dress rehearsals on July 3, which gave us a glimpse into the full scope of this entertainment offering. We’re excited to share it with you!

Experience the parade for yourself by taking advantage of discounted Universal Orlando Resort park admission, which is available through Orlando Informer here.

Exploring the Universal Mega Movie Parade Floats

The Universal Mega Movie Parade kicks off with a float crowned by the Universal logo. Below, an LED screen dazzles onlookers, showcasing the Mega Movie Parade logo and flashing scenes from the upcoming cinematic floats. 

Next, a beloved classic zooms into the spotlight – Back to the Future! This float immediately captures the crowd’s attention, led by performers on futuristic one-wheel skateboards reminiscent of Marty’s hoverboard. Even though we’re just getting started with the parade, I have to admit this might be one of my personal favorites. It’s not just that it features Doc Brown and Marty McFly; it’s the meticulous attention to detail. The float boasts iconic elements from the franchise, such as the time circuit clock and the Hill Valley Courthouse. A personal highlight for me is the clever signage of the Twin Pines Mall and the Lone Pine Mall, capturing the essence of the film’s playful take on time travel.

Transitioning to a hit from a more recent era, the Sing float rolls into the spotlight, fully equipped with a stage for its star performers – Gunter, Rosita, and Johnny. Above them, Buster Moon makes an appearance, perched atop a moon, while Miss Crawly brings up the rear of the float.

Say “bello” to the Minions float, a tribute to Minions throughout history. This vibrant float features three Minions in disco attire, boogieing down to classic tunes, surrounded by other Minions dressed as icons through the ages, and participating in famous historical moments. Performers on rollerblades add to the fun, swirling around the float. Highlights include a Minion Napoleon taking charge, the pyramids being constructed upside-down, and, of course, everyone’s favorite ruler, King Bob.

Next, the parade honors Kung Fu Panda with a float featuring the famous Dragon Warrior, Po, alongside Tigress, positioned in front of Mr. Ping’s Noodle Cart. Leading the way are performers showcasing their kung fu moves, adding martial arts flair to the procession as they pave the path for this float.

Then, it’s Hug Time! The Caterbus, also a star on the new Trolls Trollercoaster, makes its way through the parade. On top, Poppy, Branch, and Guy Diamond ride along. This section of the parade is a vibrant celebration you won’t want to miss, complete with dancers and stilt walkers adding to the festive atmosphere.

Who you gonna call? It’s Ghostbusters time! This eagerly awaited float features the colossal 16-foot Stay Puft Marshmallow Man, a spectacle that’s been teased since the Mega Movie Parade’s announcement. It certainly lives up to the hype, towering over the Temple of Gozer with its namesake menacingly positioned at the front. Fear not—our heroes from the Ghostbusters franchise are here to save the day, both aboard the float and walking alongside in the parade. And keep your eyes peeled for Slimer, who might just be lurking around!

Next up is the timeless classic, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. The excitement begins with performers on bikes leading the way, showcasing their tricks. Capturing one of the film’s most iconic moments, the float recreates the scene of flying through the sky on bicycles, with our heroes Elliott and E.T. at the forefront. The rest of the float is enveloped in lush foliage, concealing E.T.’s spaceship within.

The JAWS segment of the parade makes a splash with a marching band leading the procession, their banner proclaiming “Welcome Amity 4th of July Celebration.” Pay close attention to the band members’ hats, which subtly feature the outline of Bruce’s fin. Front and center on the float is the ferocious shark himself, Bruce, capturing a dramatic moment where the boat that Quint stands on is torn in half with the waves frozen in a dramatic crest around him.

We’ve reached the grand finale of the parade, and it’s a spectacular conclusion indeed. This segment, which is dedicated to Jurassic Park and Jurassic World, is massive and has two dedicated floats. The first, although smaller, showcases a gyrosphere, setting the stage for the thrilling sights to come. Following it is perhaps the most showstopping float of the entire parade: a massive Tyrannosaurus rex towering over a crushed Jurassic Park jeep. This dinosaur not only moves but also roars, with lifelike details like saliva dangling from its jaws. 

More to Experience at Universal Studios Florida

Universal Studios Florida has added several new additions to its lineup in just the past month. In the realm of entertainment, don’t miss Cinesational: A Symphonic Spectacular, a nighttime spectacular featuring a combination of drones, fireworks, and water effects. This show is available on select nights until August 25.

The brand-new DreamWorks Land is now open at Universal Studios Florida and features a host of exciting offerings. Among them is the Trolls Trollercoaster, a family-friendly roller coaster. Additionally, there’s the DreamWorks Imagination Celebration, an indoor show that brings together multiple DreamWorks Animation films. The area also includes several play areas and more for guests to explore!

Experience the Universal Mega Movie Parade firsthand and create unforgettable memories at Universal Orlando Resort with discounted theme park tickets from Orlando Informer!

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

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To catch you up, Penguin Trek is a family-friendly launch coaster that whisks riders through the twists and turns of Antarctica. Board a snowmobile-style ride vehicle and zoom both indoors and outdoors along a 3,020-foot track, reaching speeds of up to 43 miles per hour with two exhilarating launches. This polar journey culminates in the discovery of a live penguin habitat, where guests can observe these creatures up close after disembarking from their thrilling ride.

Now that you know the basics, let’s dive into our thoughts on Penguin Trek! 

Prep for adventure by securing your SeaWorld Orlando tickets, available at a special discounted rate through Orlando Informer here. 

Penguin Trek Queue

The queue for Penguin Trek blends the familiar caverns from its predecessor, Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin, with new elements that enrich the storyline. As we move through the queue, we encounter a base camp brimming with gear, navigation tools, research equipment, and more, heightening the anticipation for the upcoming expedition.

Approaching the loading platform, thrill-seekers should note the extended queue dedicated to the ride’s front and back seats. If you’re carrying extra gear (like backpacks or purses that exceed the size restrictions of the ride), you can stow them on the opposite side of the platform during boarding and retrieve them after your adventure concludes. For added convenience, lockers are available for a small fee before you enter the line for Penguin Trek.

Penguin Trek Ride Experience

Board the snowmobile-shaped ride vehicle, designed with nine rows of two seats, side by side. You’ll be securely fastened with a lap bar and seats specially molded to cradle your legs that are equipped with handles for those intense moments, ensuring both comfort and safety.

Soon, it’s time to take off into the expanse of Antarctica. The journey begins with a dark ride segment, immersing you in the stunning beauty and the perilous dangers of this frozen wilderness. Prepare to encounter lifelike wildlife, including penguins, amid a landscape of treacherously falling and cracking ice. Note: this section has a strobing effect for those sensitive to such stimuli.

The first launch sends you soaring over a hill, and though it’s the gentler of the two, it’s just a teaser of what’s to come. Brace yourself for the second launch, which comes swiftly with an immediate turn. While Penguin Trek is a family-friendly ride, those wary of fast launches might prefer to explore the penguin exhibit or browse the gift shop instead.

Emerging from the dark into the light, the outdoor segment offers a refreshing dash through the open air, with the Florida sun grounding us back in reality. Enjoy a series of thrilling twists and turns before coasting into the loading station. As you disembark, don’t miss the chance to observe real penguins through a viewing window.

Overall, the attraction delivered three minutes packed with thrills and fun! Penguin Trek masterfully combines wildlife, education, and innovative roller coaster design for a truly memorable experience. It turned out to be more intense than anticipated, yet it’s still gentle enough to be considered family-friendly. As a penguin enthusiast, I’m ecstatic to have another ride dedicated to these charming polar creatures. Get ready for adventure – Penguin Trek opens on July 7!

More to Explore at SeaWorld Orlando

While checking out SeaWorld Orlando’s newest coaster, don’t miss the Bands, Brew and BBQ event, running from July 6 through August 25. Indulge in a delicious selection of foods and craft beers as you enjoy live performances from rock and country bands, all included with your admission. 

Discuss this 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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An ancient artifact has released a chilling new entity, Garraka. Try not to freeze in fear as he freezes people before your eyes. Only the Ghostbusters can stop you from getting iced.

The Ghostbusters franchise blasted back into the spotlight earlier this year with its thrilling new chapter, Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire. However, this series has enjoyed a long history with Universal Orlando Resort, dating back to its inception.

Ghostbusters Spooktacular was an opening-day show in the New York area of Universal Studios Florida. This was a spectacle of live actors and cutting-edge special effects, bringing to life iconic moments and supernatural villains from the Ghostbusters films. The show ultimately closed on November 8, 1996 to make way for Twister: Ride it Out and now Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon, but the original firehouse facade still stands—a nostalgic nod to its ghost-hunting glory days.

Before Halloween Horror Nights, there was Fright Nights, a three-night event at Universal Studios Florida in 1991. One of the featured shows was “Beetlejuice Dead in Concert! Featuring the Ghostbusters!” where the famous film characters would join forces in song and dance.

2019’s Halloween Horror Nights featured Ghostbusters in somewhat of a comedy house that had its jumpscare moments but was still an all-around good time. That same year, the spectacle spilled over into the Halloween: Marathon of Mayhem lagoon show, featuring the Ghostbusters in a starring role. 

Fast-forward to 2024, Ghostbusters is making a comeback to Universal Orlando Resort. This year, they’re not just featured in a Halloween Horror Nights house but are also a highlight of the Universal Mega Movie Parade and Cinesational: A Symphonic Spectacular.

Halloween Horror Nights 2024 runs on select nights from August 30 through November 3. 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 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook. And be sure to follow Orlando Informer on TikTok, Threads,  Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest news, tips, and more at Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, and other Orlando attractions.

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What is Lightning Lane? 

Lightning Lane offers you quicker access to top attractions and entertainment experiences through a dedicated queue. Now featuring two options – Single Pass and Multi Pass – this service ensures you spend less time waiting. Keep in mind that both variations of Lightning Lane require a fee. Prices for Lightning Lane Multi Passes vary by date and theme park, whereas Lightning Lane Single Passes vary by date and attraction.

What is the difference between Multi Pass and Single Pass Lightning Lane? 

Single Pass Lightning Lane is fairly straightforward: it allows you to choose up to two Lightning Lane selections per day for highly anticipated attractions such as Guardians of The Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind and TRON Lightcycle / Run.

With Multi Pass, you get even more flexibility by selecting up to three Lightning Lane selections for the day in advance. All your pre-reserved experiences and times will be at the same park. After using a Lightning Lane selection, you can immediately book another one at the same park or a different one if you have park hopper access. For example, after redeeming your Lightning Lane selection for The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, you could then book The Haunted Mansion at Magic Kingdom Park for later in the day. Additionally, the Multi Pass Lightning Lane option includes digital downloads of photos and videos from your day through the Disney PhotoPass Service.

How to Book Lightning Lane

Guests staying at a Disney Resort hotel and select hotels can plan their Lightning Lane passes up to seven days in advance for their entire stay (up to 14 days). All other guests, like guests with date-based theme park tickets and annual passholders, can plan up to three days ahead.

All of this can be managed right from your fingertips using the My Disney Experience app (Apple or Google Play) or the Walt Disney World website. In one easy transaction, you can buy a Lightning Lane Multi Pass, a Lightning Lane Single Pass, or both. Before completing your purchase, you’ll choose your desired experiences and have the option to confirm or adjust the suggested times provided – it’s like having your own personal planner!

Check out this video from the Walt Disney World Resort breaking down this service: 

If you decide this isn’t the right fit for you, don’t worry – there are still plenty of ways to enjoy the attractions at Walt Disney World Resort. You can join the standby lines or use the virtual queue for popular rides like Guardians of The Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind and TRON Lightcycle / Run.

Lightning Lane Attractions & Experiences

Magic Kingdom Park

Multi Pass Experiences

Choose up to one experience from this group:

• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
• Jungle Cruise
• Peter Pan’s Flight
• Space Mountain
• Tiana’s Bayou Adventure

Choose your other two experiences (or all three) from this group:
(Once you redeem a selection on the day of your park visit, you can choose another Multi Pass experience from either group – subject to availability.)

• The Barnstormer
• Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
• Dumbo the Flying Elephant
• Haunted Mansion
• “it’s a small world”
• Mad Tea Party
• The Magic Carpets of Aladdin
• The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
• Mickey’s PhilharMagic
• Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor
• Pirates of the Caribbean
• Tomorrowland Speedway
• Under the Sea ~ Journey of The Little Mermaid

Single Pass Attractions (Not Available with Multi Pass)

• Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
• TRON Lightcycle / Run

EPCOT

Multi Pass Experiences

Choose up to one experience from this group:

• Frozen Ever After
• Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure
• Soarin’ Around the World

Choose your other two experiences (or all three) from this group:
(Once you redeem a selection on the day of your park visit, you can choose another Multi Pass experience from either group – subject to availability.)

• Disney and Pixar Short Film Festival
• Journey into Imagination with Figment
• Living with the Land
• Mission: SPACE
• The Seas with Nemo & Friends
• Spaceship Earth
• Turtle Talk with Crush

Single Pass Attractions (Not Available with Multi Pass)

• Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Multi Pass Experiences

Choose up to one experience from this group:

• Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
• Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
• Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith
• Slinky Dog Dash

Choose your other two experiences (or all three) from this group:
(Once you redeem a selection on the day of your park visit, you can choose another Multi Pass experience from either group – subject to availability.)

• Alien Swirling Saucers
• Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage
• Disney Junior Play & Dance!
• For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration
• Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular
• Muppet*Vision 3D
• Star Tours – The Adventures Continue
• The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror
• Toy Story Mania!

Single Pass Attractions (Not Available with Multi Pass)

• Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Multi Pass Experiences

Choose up to three experiences from this group:
(Once you redeem a selection on the day of your park visit, you can choose another Multi Pass experience – subject to availability.)

• DINOSAUR
• Expedition Everest – Legend of the Forbidden Mountain
• Feathered Friends in Flight!
• Festival of the Lion King
• Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond!
• It’s Tough to Be a Bug!
• Kali River Rapids
• Kilimanjaro Safaris
• Naʻvi River Journey

Single Pass Attractions (Not Available with Multi Pass)

• Avatar Flight of Passage

More Changes at Walt Disney World Resort

Alongside these Lightning Lane updates, Walt Disney World Resort is buzzing with new offerings! Tiana’s Bayou Adventure officially opens on June 28, followed by the toe-tapping fun of Country Bear Musical Jamboree beginning July 17. Over at EPCOT, don’t miss the “¡Celebración Encanto!” live stage show, running until September 6, and a new permanent installation like the new meet-and-greet area with Mickey Mouse and his pals. Plus, make sure to visit Disney Springs for the breathtaking nighttime drone show, Dreams that Soar, lighting up the sky until September 2!

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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Penguin Trek will be an exhilarating, family-friendly launch coaster designed to simulate a snowmobile journey across the frozen landscapes of Antarctica. Thrilling guests with speeds of up to 43 miles per hour, this ride stretches over an impressive 3,020 feet of track, blending indoor and outdoor environments for a diverse and immersive experience. As it weaves through the Penguin Trek building, guests will encounter dynamic twists and turns, mirroring the unpredictable terrains of the Antarctic.

The adventure culminates in the discovery of a live penguin habitat, offering guests the opportunity to observe these creatures up close after disembarking from their snowmobile ride vehicle. Dive deeper into the details of Penguin Trek by exploring the sneak peek we received during our behind-the-scenes visit to its development in February.

Penguin Trek opens to guests on July 7. Get ready for your icy escapade by securing your SeaWorld Orlando tickets at a discounted rate through Orlando Informer here.

Discuss this announcement with others on our SeaWorld Community on Facebook, and purchase discounted tickets here. 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 morning, exciting updates were released for this Universal Monsters-themed area, complete with insights into attractions, dining, and more! Let’s delve into the details.

Explore the Thrilling Attractions of Dark Universe

Towering above the village of Darkmoor stands the foreboding Frankenstein Manor, shrouded in mystery. Within its walls lies Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, a dark ride that brings you up close to iconic figures such as The Wolf Man, The Mummy, The Creature from the Black Lagoon, the Brides of Dracula, and more. Venture deep into the eerie catacombs where the brilliant Dr. Victoria Frankenstein unveils her latest daring experiments, attempting to harness the power of these iconic monsters. But beware—her control falters, and Dracula breaks free, unleashing a torrent of monstrous fury. Will you escape the clutches of these unleashed horrors?

Venture deeper into Dark Universe where you’ll find Curse of the Werewolf, a family spinning coaster. Based on The Wolf Man, immerse yourself in the origin story of one of horror’s most legendary creatures. Your adventure begins at the encampment of The Guild of Mystics, where you are greeted by Maleva, the guild’s all-knowing seer and revered leader. With a grave tone, she warns that you carry the mark of the werewolf. Boarding a wagon, you plunge deep into the forest, twisting and turning in a frantic race to escape the encroaching werewolves. Will you flee in time, or will you transform into the very creature you fear?

Earlier this year, Universal Studios Florida introduced a limited-time makeup experience that transformed guests into iconic silver-screen monsters. It seems this was just a preview of what’s to come with the Dark Universe’s Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience, promising even more transformations!

Step into the heart of Darkmoor, where monsters eagerly await to greet unsuspecting visitors. Encounter the formidable creations and iconic characters of Dark Universe, including Dr. Victoria Frankenstein’s Monster, Bride of Frankenstein, Ygor, and The Invisible Man. As you explore, you’ll also meet the local residents of Darkmoor—a monster hunter and a musician who weaves enchanting tales of Universal Monster lore.

Dining Options in Dark Universe

Dine at Das Stakehaus, a cleverly named restaurant that plays a playful nod to one of the vampire’s classic weaknesses: the stake. Run by vampire “familiars,” the menu features kebabs, burgers, sandwiches, and more.

Ignite your appetite at The Burning Blade Tavern, another Dark Universe quick-service eatery inspired by a fiery scene from the 1931 classic film Frankenstein. This spot is now a hangout for monster hunters, serving burgers, wings, bratwurst, pretzels, and specialty beverages.

Next, visit De Lacey’s Cottage, a quick-service spot named after the family observed by the monster in Mary Shelley’s novel Frankenstein. Here, guests can find a variety of snacks and cool treats like cinnamon bread, ice cream, twisted taters, and more.

Shop for Monster Merchandise

Bring a piece of the eternal world of Dark Universe home with you! At Pretorius’ Scientific Oddities, you can select from an array of commemorative merchandise and mementos.

Learn More About Epic Universe

There is even more to be excited about! Dark Universe is merely one of five immersive worlds at Epic Universe. Upon the park’s opening in 2025, visitors will also be able to explore Celestial Park, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk,  The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, and SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, each offering its own unique adventures and experiences.

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

Discuss it all with 170,000+ other Universal die-hard fans in our Orlando Informer Community on Facebook and snag discounted 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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Ahead of its official launch on June 14, we were thrilled to get a preview of Cinesational: A Symphonic Spectacular so we could give you a first-hand glimpse.

A First Look into Cinesational

Our sneak peek into Cinesational reveals a lineup of cinematic classics. The show kicks off with high-energy sequences from The Mummy, Jurassic Park, and Fast and Furious. The excitement builds as drones and fireworks accompany moments from How to Train Your Dragon, capturing the bond between Hiccup and Toothless.

Transitioning to a celebration of friendship, the music shifts to “True Colors” as drones create poignant images, including E.T.’s finger touching Elliott’s hand, followed by the duo of Shrek and Donkey. As the show progresses, the atmosphere shifts with vibrant scenes from Trolls, featuring colorful water dances set to the tune of “Can’t Stop the Feeling.” Watch for fun drone formations and a message in the sky: “Hug Time!”

But it’s not all light-hearted; the spectacle takes a thrilling turn to honor Universal’s origins with a segment dedicated to Universal Monsters, featuring Frankenstein’s Monster, Creature from the Black Lagoon, Dracula, and more. But “I ain’t afraid of no ghost!” With the Ghostbusters taking over, this part of the show blends nostalgia with modern drone visuals of the iconic logo and the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man and is sure to get everyone dancing.

The fun doesn’t stop there. The Minions from Despicable Me, fresh from their own Universal Studios Florida expansion, steal the show with a special tribute. And, of course, the magical world of Harry Potter is represented with drones crafting the Hogwarts emblem in the sky alongside its enchanting soundtrack from The Wizarding World.

Cinesational also delves into tales of romance and adventure, so of course, highlighting movie moments and couples, such as Shrek and Fiona, Hiccup and Astrid, and so many more. However, sometimes that love isn’t reciprocated. Like Bowser’s love for Princess Peach depicted in the song “Peaches” paired with other The Super Mario Bros. Movie images. A peak into what’s to come to their newest theme park, perhaps?

The show wraps up with a medley of cinematic giants like Jaws, Transformers, and King Kong, leading up to a sequence from Back to the Future, a franchise that has had roots in Universal Orlando Resort since the beginning. The show culminates with stunning visual effects and the Universal logo created by drones. 

Don’t Miss This Nighttime Spectacular!

Cinesational: A Symphonic Spectacular promises an unforgettable night at Universal Orlando Resort, filled with appreciation for cinema. Our biggest tip for enjoying this show is to stay observant for those mesmerizing drone images – you won’t want to miss a single moment!

Be sure to catch the premiere on June 14 at Universal Orlando Resort, and don’t forget to grab your discounted tickets from Orlando Informer to enjoy the magic of movies like never before!

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

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As dusk falls, Hogwarts Always illuminates the castle with breathtaking visuals and storytelling, culminating in a spectacular finale. Each ending varies, celebrating one of the four Hogwarts houses – Gryffindor, Slytherin, Hufflepuff, or Ravenclaw – with a dazzling display that honors the unique spirit and values of each house.

We’ve had the privilege of experiencing this show firsthand and are thrilled to bring you an insider’s glimpse into its magic.

A Glimpse Into the Magic: Our Firsthand Experience

Our adventure began much like every Hogwarts student’s: receiving the iconic acceptance letter. Along with this note is a list of materials needed for the upcoming year, so where else can you get it all but at Diagon Alley? The castle walls soon transformed into a vivid portrayal of Diagon Alley thanks to projection mapping technology.

The Hogwarts Express deserves its own mention, receiving a special tribute during the show that captures the excitement of the journey to the world’s most famous school of witchcraft and wizardry.

As soon as the newest students step into the hallowed halls of Hogwarts Castle, the sorting hat awaits, ready to determine their fate among the brave, the ambitious, the loyal, or the wise. The atmosphere is thick with anticipation and excitement, capturing the essence of every young witch and wizard’s first moments at Hogwarts.

What would a year at Hogwarts be without a touch of danger? Watch as the castle morphs into the Marauder’s Map and witness a game of Quidditch before transitioning to the depths of the Forbidden Forest. But fear not –  the show reaffirms the timeless theme of the Harry Potter series: good always triumphs over evil.

The show has four endings, paying homage to each Hogwarts house. We were lucky to witness Hufflepuff hailed as the house cup winner, with the castle bathed in a glorious yellow light and complemented by a small fireworks display.

Experience Hogwarts Always for Yourself

Hogwarts Always begins on June 14. Discover the magic with discounted theme park tickets available through Orlando Informer.

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

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Jurassic World VelociCoaster Height Requirements

Before you gear up for Jurassic World VelociCoaster, make sure you and your fellow riders meet the height requirement: you need to be at least 51 inches tall to experience this attraction.

Jurassic World VelociCoaster Story

The story of VelociCoaster is that you are joining Owen Grady and Claire Dearing on a test training run for the four Velociraptors at Jurassic World: Echo, Charlie, Delta, and Blue. Set before the events of the first Jurassic World movie, this adventure unfolds as Claire has devised this ride as an attraction through the raptor paddock since the Indominus Rex exhibit has been delayed. Before the ride begins, you’ll even have the chance to “meet” these incredible raptors. Don’t worry – they’re contained!

Jurassic World VelociCoaster Ride Vehicle

As you step onto the ride, you’ll be seated side-by-side with a friend, securely fastened with a lap bar that snugly fits across your lap. There’s not a shoulder harness on this attraction, just the lap bar to ensure you’re safely in place.

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

Jurassic World VelociCoaster Ride Experience

Before we dive into all the details, take a front-row ride on the Jurassic World VelociCoaster at Universal Orlando Resort with this POV video:

Speed

Jurassic World VelociCoaster is a launch ride, designed to accelerate quickly not just once, but twice! For those a bit nervous about high speeds, here’s what to expect: The first launch zips you to the ride’s peak speed of 70 mph in a swift 2.4 seconds, while the second boosts you to 50 mph just before the top hat – a high point that offers a brief moment to brace yourself before a thrilling descent at an 80-degree angle into an exciting inversion. We’ll get into the details of the barrel roll shortly – a swift maneuver at 50 mph that adds to the excitement.

Jurassic World VelociCoaster is the fastest ride at Universal Orlando at its top speed of 70 mph, and it does not slow down until the very end. That said, it also perhaps has the smoothest ride of all of the coasters in the parks. For those looking to ease into the thrill, consider choosing a seat towards the front of the ride train; it’s less intense than the back and offers stunning views of the park and a mesmerizing glance through the raptor paddock as you soar by.

Direction

Hold onto your hats because Jurassic World VelociCoaster is about to take you on a wild ride with not one but four total inversions that will literally turn your world upside down! If the thought of being upside down makes you a bit anxious, knowing what to expect can help. One of the standout features is a breathtaking 360-degree barrel roll that swoops just feet above the surface of the Islands of Adventure lagoon. 

Get ready for the inverted stall – a heart-pounding moment where you’ll flip upside down and experience a feeling of weightlessness while gliding along 100 feet of inverted track. And just when you think you’ve got a handle on things, remember, the track is a maze of excitement, crossing over and under itself 40 times, adding to the thrill with every twist and turn.

As we touched on earlier, Jurassic World VelociCoaster offers some truly unique experiences, including those exhilarating moments of weightlessness during its inversions. It’s a gentle, floating feeling, almost as if you’re soaring through the sky. This feeling of weightlessness is a key part of what makes this ride so thrilling – yet it’s managed in such a way that it feels more exhilarating than intimidating.

Length

It’s a fast but unforgettable two-minute journey on Jurassic World VelociCoaster, which stretches an impressive 4,700 feet from start to finish. This quick duration is perfect for those who might feel a bit apprehensive – before you know it, you’ll be back in the station, exhilarated and maybe even ready to go again.

Height

The highest point of this coaster is reached during the top hat we mentioned earlier. Here’s how it unfolds: You’ll accelerate to 50 mph before soaring up to a towering height of 155 feet. At the apex, prepare for a heart-pounding 140-foot drop toward the ground at an 80-degree angle.

If you choose not to ride…

If, after reading this guide, you feel the Jurassic World VelociCoaster might be a bit too intense, don’t worry – you can still immerse yourself in the universe of Jurassic World with the Raptor Encounter located just across from the ride. Here, you’ll get to meet a raptor up close and get a great photo too!

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

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¡Celebración Encanto! Premieres at EPCOT: A Must-See Experience

Step into the magic as “¡Celebración Encanto!” makes its grand debut on the newly unveiled CommuniCore Plaza stage at EPCOT. Running until September 6, this 20-minute live stage show features the beloved songs and story from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Encanto, presented multiple times daily to guests of all ages.

Echoing the charm of “For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration” at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, two storytellers bring the magical tale of Encanto to life with movie trivia and interactive sing-alongs. Belt out favorites like “The Family Madrigal,” “Surface Pressure,” and “What Else Can I Do?” – lyrics are provided onscreen, so everyone can join in! 

Audience participation is encouraged as select guests are invited onstage to dance and help narrate during “We Don’t Talk About Bruno,” explaining the mysterious family member’s backstory. You’ll even pick up some new dance moves to show off during your next Encanto viewing. Get ready for appearances from Mirabel and (yep – we are talking about him) Bruno! After the show, join them for an unforgettable dance party, complete with live instruments for the audience to play alongside the dancing cousins.

EPCOT’s latest addition, ¡Celebración Encanto!, celebrates the magic of Encanto with shows at 9:45 AM, 10:45 AM, 11:45 AM, 1:25 PM, 2:25 PM, and 3:25 PM.

Explore the New CommuniCore Hall Now Open at EPCOT

The final construction walls at EPCOT’s central area have come down, unveiling the stunning new CommuniCore Hall, a year-round hub for EPCOT’s famous festivals. This addition complements the tranquil World Celebration Gardens located just behind Spaceship Earth, offering guests an indoor space to recharge and get a reprieve from the Florida sun. 

In this new space, Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and Goofy welcome guests at the Mickey & Friends Meet and Greet. Positioned against a striking mural of EPCOT, it’s the perfect backdrop for unforgettable photo ops and cherished moments with some favorite Disney characters.

This new venue also boasts a quick-service food window offering beloved dishes from previous EPCOT festivals. Here’s a look at the current menu selections:

EPCOT’s Festival Favorites Menu

Cheese-stuffed Arepas – $5.25
With Cilantro-Lime Crema and Cotija

Cheese-stuffed Arepas – $6.50
With Chicken and Avacado

Coconut Tres Leches – $5.00
Vanilla Cake soaked with Oat, Almond, and Coconut Milk topped with Toasted Coconut

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Step into the future of theme parks at the Epic Universe Preview Center, where you’ll get a look into what awaits when Universal Orlando Resort’s Epic Universe opens its gates in 2025. Rewind to the 90s, when Universal Studios Florida unveiled a similar preview center for Islands of Adventure in the New York area of the park, offering a sneak peek into what’s to come. Fast forward 25 years, and Universal Orlando Resort is not just opening another theme park; they are revolutionizing the preview experience with cutting-edge technology that puts you right in the heart of the action.

Exploring the Epic Universe Preview Center: Everything We Know So Far

Here’s a quick refresher into what awaits at Universal’s Epic Universe, set to open in 2025:

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD is leveling up from its acclaimed spots in Universal Studios Japan and Universal Studios Hollywood to the Universal Orlando Resort. Step into the pixel-perfect world of Mario and Donkey Kong, where you can race Team Bowser in Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, protect the golden banana in Mine-Cart Madness, and explore the Mushroom Kingdom on Yoshi’s Adventure. Alongside these adventures, savor 8-bit-inspired foods, browse Nintendo-themed merchandise, and enhance your adventure with interactive Power-Up bands that bring the world around you to life.

Next, step into How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, where Vikings and dragons live alongside one another. Thrill-seekers and fantasy lovers alike will be captivated by the soaring coasters and engaging water rides, which recreate the exhilaration of dragon flight and Viking exploration. Meet beloved characters face-to-face and catch a live stage show that brings the magic of the screen right into the heart of Epic Universe.

While excitement shrouds Dark Universe and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, the anticipation builds. These areas promise to resurrect Universal Monsters and transport you to the magic-infused 1920s Paris of the Fantastic Beasts films, along with the iconic British Ministry of Magic. With today’s first look, the Epic Universe Preview Center has unveiled brand new concept art on its walls, offering a closer look and further details about what these areas have in store.

Connecting these worlds is Celestial Park, more than just a pathway but a destination in its own right. At the heart of Epic Universe, Celestial Park offers a variety of thrilling attractions, delectable dining options, and a plethora of shopping experiences. It’s where each adventure begins, and new stories are waiting to be discovered!

Inside Look: The Scale Model of Epic Universe

For the first time, the Epic Universe scale model is publicly displayed, inviting visitors to explore and discover its offerings in a whole new way. Enhanced by augmented reality via the Epic Universe Preview Center app (Apple and Android), guests can delve deeper into the attractions, dining options, entertainment, and more that Universal’s Epic Universe plans to offer and save their favorite spots to check out once the park is open!

With the unveiling of the Epic Universe scale model, we can now fully appreciate the grandeur and detail of what’s to come – far beyond the artist renderings we’ve seen before. This model brings to life the heights of Stardust Racers, showcases the twists of Hiccup’s Wing Gliders, and explores how each world’s portal plans to whisk you away to entirely new realms. It’s a tangible glimpse into the adventures that await at Epic Universe.

Exclusive Merchandise at the Epic Universe Preview Center

Show off your excitement for Epic Universe in style! At the Epic Universe Preview Center, you’ll discover an exciting range of merchandise, each piece uniquely designed to reflect the distinct worlds of Epic Universe. From apparel and plush toys to home goods and more, there’s something to help everyone showcase their anticipation for Universal Orlando Resort’s newest theme park.

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

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

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