Author: Brian Glenn

Brian may be reached at brian.g@insideuniversal.net - Editor-in-Chief

Universal Orlando has opened the “Monster Makeover: Become the Monster!” experience at Universal Studios Florida. The makeover-style experience is located at the 5 & Dime in the Hollywood section of Universal Studios Florida. Guests can choose from 38 options of different monster makeovers, which are done by one of Universal’s makeup professionals – the same professionals that handle the makeup effects for Halloween Horror Nights. Guests must make a reservation at the 5 & Dime for the experience and can choose a full face of makeup for $125 or a half-face design for $65. Stay tuned to Inside Universal for…

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Universal Studios Hollywood is celebrating the 1st Anniversary of Super Nintendo World with “new ways to level up”, including the all-new Power Up Cafe, the debut of a commemorative, special-release Golden Power-Up Band, and a limited-edition complimentary 1-Year Anniversary Button. Opening on February 17, 2023 – Super Nintendo World features the groundbreaking “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge” ride, interactive activities throughout the Mushroom Kingdom, dining at Toadstool Cafe, and shopping at the 1-UP Factory retail store. On February 15, the all-new Power Up Cafe opens on New York Street, located on the Upper Lot inside the theme park. This grab-and-go cafe…

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Universal Studios Hollywood has officially soft-opened the Power Up Cafe, which will officially open on February 15, 2024. This new venue features unique Super Mario-themed menu items and is located on New York Street on the Upper Lot. The menu features calzones, popcorn, and “fizz” soda drinks. A reminder that a Soft Opening is a technical rehearsal, so an opening is never promised. The Cafe might only be open for a period of time, all day, or not at all, depending on any issues or changes. There is no set schedule or guarantee it will be open until it’s officially…

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Universal Orlando has shared the first-ever details for its new theme park, Epic Universe, announcing the 5 themed lands featured when the park opens in 2025. “The Journey to Epic Begins Now…” Epic Universe will present a level of theme park immersion and innovation that is unmatched – transporting guests to expansive worlds featuring more than 50 awe-inspiring attractions, entertainment, dining, and shopping experiences. Guests will enter through a set of “majestic portals that capture the imagination and creativity of each world”. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U4u83ncMjuE Celestial Park, As soon as guests enter the imaginative world, they’ll embark on a journey of discovery,…

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Here’s a look around at what’s happening at Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood, from January 29, 2024, to February 4, 2024. Universal Orlando Universal Orlando is celebrating their passholders with Passholder Bonus Benefits until January 31, 2024. The event gives Annual and Seasonal Passholders extra benefits only available for a limited time, including a dedicated park entrance, special menus, and exclusive merchandise. 2024’s Universal’s Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval will run daily from February 3 through April 7, 2024. This weekend will feature a concert on Saturday, February 3, with Walker Hayes performing live. This year’s Mardi Gras…

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Universal Orlando Resort guests can enjoy a special pop-up shop highlighting the magical creations of Studio MinaLima – the beloved artists behind the graphic props of the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films – at the Universal Studios Store in Universal CityWalk. Founders Miraphora Mina and Eduardo Lima designed some of the most renowned and loved film props such as the Hogwarts Acceptance Letter, The Marauder’s Map, The Daily Prophet and the Black Family Tapestry. This limited-time experience will allow Wizarding World fans to shop a variety of authentic, MinaLima-designed magical keepsakes such as prints, journals, stationery, home décor, accessories and more. House…

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Universal Orlando has scheduled Tot Tiki Reef at Volcano Bay for refurbishment. The area will be closed from February 9, 2024, until February 16, 2024. Please keep in mind that these dates can change. Tot Tiki Reef is a part of Runnamukka Reef, the water play area for children. Universal usually schedules maintenance for its water rides and attractions during the colder months, especially as attendance is softer. Stay tuned to Inside Universal for all the latest news on Universal Parks & Resorts and follow along on our forums & discussion boards.

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Universal Orlando is adding a “Monster Makeover: Become the Monster!” experience to Universal Studios Florida. Unfortunately, details are mum at the moment – but it appears a makeover-style experience is coming to the 5 & Dime in the Hollywood section of Universal Studios Florida. No opening date has been announced, but a sign on the experience’s entry door states “Coming Soon”. Stay tuned to Inside Universal for all the latest news on Universal Parks & Resorts and follow along on our forums & discussion boards.

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We’re back with a photo update around the Universal Orlando Resort! This month, we take a look at several projects going on around Universal; including set up for Rock the Universe 2024 and Mardi Gras 2024: International Flavors of Carnaval at Universal Studios Florida. We also take a look at the latest construction on the new DreamWorks area and refurbishments happening around the resort. Let’s take a look! Park Update Index » CityWalk Orlando » DreamWorks Area » Mardi Gras 2024 » Rock the Universe 2024 » New Lagoon Nighttime Show » Jurassic Park River Adventure » Marvel Super Hero…

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In 2024, the World-Famous Studio Tour will celebrate a milestone of 60 years at Universal Studios Hollywood. The Studio Tour is an integral part of Universal Studios Hollywood, as the addition of the tour led to the development of Universal Studios Hollywood as a theme park. To celebrate the momentous Diamond anniversary, Universal will be adding “exciting entertainment” to the Studio Tour, however, more information about those additions will be shared at a later time. While much has transpired in six decades, the Studio Tour has remained true to its roots of immersing guests in the world of movie-making magic…

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