Author: Brian Glenn

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

Today marked the end of an era as Universal Studios Japan permanently closed The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man. Located in the New York section of the park, the ride opened on January 23, 2004. The “Final Campaign” – which started last July – saw guests come out and get one last ride before the attraction closed for good. There was even an official “Final Ride” Countdown clock to mark the occasion. Universal Studios Japan posted an official goodbye on social media. The tweet translates to: Thanks for 20 years of connecting with us━ The Amazing Adventures of…

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Here’s a look around at what’s happening at Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood, from January 22, 2024, to January 28, 2024. Universal Orlando Universal Orlando is celebrating their passholders with Passholder Bonus Benefits during the month of January. 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. Rock the Universe, Florida’s biggest Christian music festival, will take place on January 26 and 27, 2024. Rock the Universe lets fans enjoy performances by some of Christian music’s top artists, offers worship experiences, and a…

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Universal Studios Hollywood has announced Pass Member Bonus Benefits, an event celebrating their annual pass members, which will take place starting February 1 through March 13, 2024. Annual Pass Members will have the opportunity to experience Universal Studios Hollywood with extra benefits only available for a limited time. Here are some of the exclusive offerings during Pass Member Bonus Benefits: Scavenger Hunt Play the in-park Scavenger Hunt to get a collectible Pass Member button! Stop by the Universal Studio Store inside the theme park. Once you’ve completed your checklist return to the Universal Studio Store and collect your button. Available…

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Universal Orlando has announced more information on this year’s Mardi Gras event, including the concert line-up and this year’s theme. 2024’s Universal’s Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval will run daily from February 3 through April 7, 2024. This year’s Mardi Gras parade theme will bring the elements to life in six new, beautifully designed parade floats inspired by Earth, wind, fire, water, the sun and the moon. The new collection of element floats will join Universal’s traditional lineup of New Orleans-inspired floats to create this year’s parade – complete with high-energy music, dozens of performers donning elaborate costumes, and tons of beads.…

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Universal Studios Hollywood has announced its Discover A Star Foundation has raised over $1 million in 2023 to benefit nonprofit groups within Los Angeles County that empower individuals and families to lead more fulfilling lives. For 29 years, Discover A Star (DAS) has been at the forefront of providing grants to select Los Angeles nonprofit organizations working to alleviate homelessness and poverty as well as critical children issues. “Giving back to our community and making a difference in people’s lives is as important to us as creating exceptional rides and attractions for our guests,” said Scott Strobl, Executive Vice President…

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Here’s a look around at what’s happening at Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood, from January 15, 2024, to January 21, 2024. Universal Orlando Universal Orlando is celebrating their passholders with Passholder Bonus Benefits during the month of January. 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. With Winter arriving in Central Florida, Volcano Bay may close if the temperature is forecasted to be cold. Make sure to check Universal’s website or social channels for more information. Refurbishments Please keep in mind refurbishment…

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Here’s a look around at what’s happening at Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood, from January 8, 2024, to January 14, 2024. Universal Orlando Passholder Bonus Benefits, an event celebrating their annual passholders, will return starting on January 6, 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. With Winter arriving in Central Florida, Volcano Bay may close if the temperature is forecasted to be cold. Make sure to check Universal’s website or social channels for more information. Refurbishments Please keep in mind…

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Universal Orlando is no longer offering paper park maps at its theme parks, encouraging guests to use the official Universal Orlando app for park information. The change was made as Universal aims to provide guests with more of a digital experience. “With the app, guests can also take advantage of other capabilities to maximize their visit, including purchasing and redeeming select admission tickets, viewing wait times, taking advantage of Mobile Food and Drink Ordering and more.” Guests who still prefer paper maps are encouraged to print out a park map before their visit from the Official website, or they can…

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Universal Orlando has confirmed that the Universal Legacy Store in CityWalk Orlando will officially close on January 7, 2024. Per Universal, the closure will “make way for an exciting new experience for our guests” and “more details will be revealed soon.”. Opening in 2021, the Legacy Store replaced the original Universal Studio Store. It focused on the nostalgia and history of the Universal Orlando Resort since its opening in 1990 – featuring props, photos, and costumes throughout the store. Stay tuned to Inside Universal for all the latest news on Universal Parks & Resorts and follow along on our forums &…

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