Author: Brian Glenn

Universal Fan Fest Nights 2026 at Universal Studios Hollywood returns for its sophomore year as a clearly defined, fandom-first event; built less around rides and more around immersive experiences tied to anime, gaming, and film genre properties. It’s an event that unapologetically leans into “nerd culture,” and that focus largely works. That said, being only in its second year, the event is still finding its footing. There’s a noticeable effort to refine and expand on what worked in its debut, but some of the same challenges remain. While there’s a lot here that lands, there are also areas where execution…

The Starbucks location in the Port of Entry area of Universal’s Islands of Adventure has reopened following a multi-month refurbishment. The location had been closed for several months, continuing a pattern of updates to on-site Starbucks locations across the resort. Both the CityWalk and Universal Studios Florida locations recently underwent similar closures. While specific details of the renovation were not released, the interior has been refreshed. The space retains its woodsy theme, now paired with darker tones – featuring grays and blues that complement the natural wood elements. Stay tuned to Inside Universal for all the latest news on Universal…

Universal Orlando will introduce a new line of collectible acrylic carousel figures as part of the lead-up to Halloween Horror Nights 35. The collection is designed to coincide with the event’s haunted house announcements, with each reveal accompanied by a corresponding figure. The figures will represent one of the event’s characters and are intended to be displayed together on an “Infernal Carnival” stand, which will be sold separately. The concept follows a similar approach to last year’s stained glass-style acrylic collectible, which was released in individual pieces tied to announcement cycles and could be completed over time. The initial release…

Universal Orlando has announced a lineup of limited-time summer experiences inspired by blockbuster films, running from May 23 through August 10, 2026. The seasonal offerings will bring a range of cinematic elements into the parks, including character encounters, themed photo opportunities, interactive activations, exclusive merchandise, and new food and beverage options. In addition, fan-favorite seasonal experiences will return this summer on select nights, including the Universal Mega Movie Parade and Hogwarts Always. Here is an overview of all the new excitement that awaits guests across Universal Orlando this summer: Spielberg Summer Blockbusters featuring “Disclosure Day” Limited-Time Exhibit (Universal Studios Florida): Guests…

The Universal Legacy Store has officially reopened at Universal CityWalk Orlando, returning to its original location after serving as the Epic Universe Preview Center. Originally opening in 2021, the shop quickly became a fan favorite for its celebration of classic Universal attractions and films, featuring displays and memorabilia from closed attractions such as Jaws, Back to the Future, and Ghostbusters. While the store keeps its nostalgic focus, the new version is noticeably different in design, moving away from the museum-style experience the original offered. Large-scale photo opportunities inspired by Tom Whalen’s artwork have been added, highlighting properties including E.T., Back…

Here’s a look around at what’s happening at Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood, from April 27, 2026, to May 3, 2026. Universal Orlando Volcano Bay Nights returns to Volcano Bay on Sunday, May 3, 2026. The event takes place on select nights through August 21 and invites guests to enjoy the water park after dark with special entertainment, exclusive food and drinks, and access to many of Volcano Bay’s most popular attractions. UOAP Bonus Benefits begins on Friday, May 1, 2026, and runs through May 21, 2026. The event, dedicated to Universal Orlando Annual Passholders, features exclusive perks, including…

From April 23 through May 16, guests can step into their favorite fandoms as Fan Fest Nights takes over Universal Studios Hollywood. Held on select nights, this separately ticketed event transforms the park into an after-hours celebration of movies, TV, gaming, and anime – bringing immersive worlds, interactive experiences, and exclusive entertainment to life. Fan Fest Nights blends the energy of a theme park event with the passion of a fan convention, featuring walk-through experiences, character encounters, themed food, and limited-time offerings you won’t find during regular park hours. We’ve gathered everything you need to know before heading out to…

The Burger King Whopper Bar at Universal CityWalk Orlando has officially closed. Curtains now block off the kitchen area as the space gets ready to become a Five Guys, which is set to open later this summer. Originally opening in 2009, the Burger King Whopper Bar was positioned as a more “premium” take on the traditional Burger King experience, complete with customizable Whoppers. The concept was introduced as a response to the rising popularity of fast-casual burger chains like Five Guys – making its replacement here a fittingly ironic full-circle moment. Stay tuned to Inside Universal for all the latest news…

Comcast’s Xfinity has launched its Xfinity Member Celebration, a limited-time promotion running through May 10 that includes theme park perks tied to Universal Orlando & Universal Studios Hollywood. As part of the three-week event, eligible Xfinity members can access a range of sweepstakes and rewards connected to NBCUniversal properties, including exclusive opportunities at Universal’s theme parks in both Florida and California. For Universal Orlando, thousands of Diamond-tier Xfinity members can claim two complimentary one-day park tickets, available on a limited basis while supplies last. For Universal Studios Hollywood, Xfinity is offering a sweepstakes that will send winners to the park…

Loews Hotels has announced a lineup of dining options for Mother’s Day at Universal Orlando, offering a range of brunch and dinner experiences across Universal’s on-site hotels on Sunday, May 10. Both locals and visitors will be able to choose from several on-site restaurants, with offerings ranging from upscale buffets to prix fixe dining experiences. The Kitchen at Hard Rock Hotel Located at Hard Rock Hotel Orlando, The Kitchen will offer a gourmet Mother’s Day buffet designed to resemble a rockstar’s home kitchen. Menu highlights include carving stations with prime rib and spiral ham, a made-to-order pasta station, smoked salmon,…