Author: Brian Glenn

Here’s a look around at what’s happening at Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood, from April 21, 2025, to April 27, 2025. Universal Orlando Universal Epic Universe ticketed previews continue for Annual Passholders, on-site hotel guests, Military Freedom ticket holders, and Universal Rewards Visa Signature card members. Please note that visiting Epic Universe with a preview ticket means you will be at the park during technical rehearsals, also known as a Soft Opening. While all major components are installed and operational, some adjustments, changes, and updates will occur before the grand opening on May 22, 2025. Universal Volcano Bay Nights will…

Universal Studios Hollywood has shared a first look at the legendary beholder, Xanathar, and his beloved pet goldfish, Sylgar, as they will appear in the all-new Dungeons & Dragons: Secrets of Waterdeep in-world experience at Universal Fan Fest Nights, kicking off on Friday, April 25. Universal Studios Hollywood collaborated with Jim Henson’s Creature Shop to create this larger-than-life, fully articulated Xanathar. The all-new Dungeons & Dragons: Secrets of Waterdeep is an in-world experience is inspired by the “World’s Greatest Roleplaying Game”, Dungeons & Dragons. The experience will welcome guests and fans to partake in a one-of-a-kind adventure and explore the fantastic world of D&D.…

Universal Studios Hollywood has shared information on a wide selection of cosplay-inspired accessories, apparel and themed merchandise for Universal Fan Fest Nights, inspired by the event’s marquee experiences, including Star Trek, Back to the Future, Dungeons & Dragons, One Piece, Jujutsu Kaisen, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and Super Nintendo World. Tickets are now on sale for the inaugural event, which will take place on the following dates: April 25-27; May 2-4; 9-11; and 15-18, 2025. Extensive collections of all-new merchandise will be available, themed to each of the exciting in-world experiences, including memorable collectibles and mementos, as well…

Universal Orlando has shared special Passholder Benefits for Annual Passholders when visiting their new theme park, Epic Universe. Please note that Annual Pass options that include admission to Epic Universe are not available at this time. Admission into Epic Universe and an active Annual Pass are required to utilize the Perks. Universal Orlando has also clarified Early Park Admission and the Express after 4pm Passholder perks will not available at Epic Universe. Here are the benefits: DINING Discount on purchases at all Universal Orlando-owned and operated restaurants and carts (excluding alcoholic beverages): Premier Pass: 15% discount Preferred Pass: 10% discount…

The outdoor portion of Skull Island: Reign of Kong at Islands of Adventure has returned, taking guests outside and through the temple doors again. The attraction includes a built-in “B-Mode” to accommodate the unpredictable Central Florida weather, allowing it to bypass the outdoor portion during inclement weather. In 2023, the attraction began to skip the outdoor track entirely due to a rumored complication. In late 2024, work commenced to redo the outdoor track to address these issues. Stay tuned to Inside Universal for all the latest news on Universal Parks & Resorts and follow along on our forums & discussion…

Here’s a look around at what’s happening at Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood, from April 14, 2025, to April 20, 2025. Universal Orlando Universal Epic Universe ticketed previews begin this week on April 17 for Annual Passholders, on-site hotel guests, Military Freedom ticket holders, and Universal Rewards Visa Signature card members. Please note that visiting Epic Universe with a preview ticket means you will be at the park during technical rehearsals, also known as a Soft Opening. While all major components are installed and operational, some adjustments, changes, and updates will occur before the grand opening on May 22,…

A new chapter of Universal is set to begin! After years of buildup and speculation, Universal Orlando invited us to see its much-hyped new theme park, Universal Epic Universe. Universal plans to “redefine” the theme park experience. The layout features a central hub that connects to four themed portals, allowing visitors to explore immersive and fantastical worlds, all while being complemented by an adjacent hotel and state-of-the-art attractions and experiences. As the park is still in technical rehearsals, we will just be providing our initial thoughts on our experience, saving our review for when the park is officially complete and…

Universal Orlando was kind enough to invite us out for a first look at the Universal Helios Grand Hotel, their new signature hotel located within their upcoming Epic Universe theme park. Originally set to open May 22, Universal has now announced that it will begin accepting reservations starting April 16. The 500-room hotel is the final hotel to open as part of Universal’s Epic expansion, bringing the resort’s total number of hotels to 11, with 11,000 rooms. “We have taken immersion to an all-new level… where the guests are just steps away from a theme park,” said David Bartek, Senior…

Universal Destinations & Experiences announced today its intent to pursue the first-ever Universal entertainment resort complex in the United Kingdom, set to open in 2031. The park will be just south of Bedford, 35 minutes north of London by train. The proposed plans, subject to planning approval, include a theme park with several themed lands, a 500-room hotel, and a retail, dining, and entertainment complex. “This is a special and historic milestone moment for our company as we continue to accelerate the growth trajectory of our theme parks business and delight audiences around the world,” said Mike Cavanagh, President of Comcast…

Universal Orlando is now accepting reservations for its newest hotel, Universal Helios Grand Hotel, for arrivals beginning April 16. Initially set to open on May 22, the new hotel is adjacent to Epic Universe. The majestic 500-room Mediterranean hotel puts guests steps away from the brand-new theme park. Guests can enjoy a host of incredible amenities such as a variety of dining options, including Flora Taverna, Aurora Market and Lotus Lagoon; a resort-style zero-entry pool, a hot tub and poolside cabanas; fitness center, game room, and fan-favorite merch from the Universal Studios Store. Guests will also enjoy food and beverage…