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The World-Famous Studio Tour celebrates its 60th anniversary this year, and Universal Studios Hollywood is pumped to celebrate. After six decades of taking guests around the iconic Universal backlot — and in the process, transforming themed entertainment forever — you’d better believe we have a lot to celebrate. From a limited-time chance to hop off the tram for photo ops to adorable merch to delightful retro-inspired treats, the theme park has a whole lot of fun planned from April 26 to August 11, 2024. But you know what’s even more fun than Glamor Tram sugar cookies? Reading up on your history. Yes, kids, that’s right!

After 60 years running, the Studio Tour has entertained more than 200 million guests. It’s tough to imagine the themed entertainment world without it. It’s become one of the top things to do at Universal Studios Hollywood, and is an absolute must for any Universal Studios Hollywood itinerary. But in its early days there was no guarantee the Studio Tour would last — let alone give way to the modern theme park. To get a sense for its impact, we dug into the Universal archives to look back at the history of the Studio Tour. You know, before it was world-famous. So let’s hop in the time machine for a quick Universal history lesson, shall we? 

An Open Door Tradition 

Universal has a long tradition of welcoming the public on set. In 1915, Universal Pictures founder Carl Laemmle opened the doors to spectators during filming. Guests paid 25 cents, took a seat in the bleachers, and watched as a show was filmed in front of them. 

“You could literally watch movies get made,” says John Murdy, a Universal Studios Hollywood creative director who oversaw the refurbishment of the Studio Tour in 2000. Murdy actually got his start at Universal as a Studio Tour guide in 1989. Back in the 1910s, the tour was far less structured than it is today. “It’s kind of crazy,” says Murdy, referring to archival photos of the early audiences. “They just seem to be roaming around the property, walking around, checking stuff out.”

Sounds distracting, sure. But one crucial difference between 1915 and today? Films were silent. Audiences could watch a scene being filmed like it was a stage play, and react audibly without interfering with the filmmaking process itself.  With the dawn of the talkies in the 1920s, Universal had to close its doors to guests, so as not to drive the sound guys up a wall. 

A Little Side Project

Fast-forward to 1964. Hollywood had changed quite a bit from the silent movie days. Not only did film have sound and color, but it had become a massive industry full of glitz and glamour. “It’s a weird era of Hollywood history,” says Murdy. “You’re coming out of the studio system days, and television is starting to impact the movie business.” With television competing for viewers’ attention, studios had to keep income coming in — and do so creatively. 

It turns out, the studio execs just had to trust their guts. Or, rather — trust tourists’ guts. Prior to Universal’s own Studio Tour, third-party Hollywood tours would come onto the lot, take a swing around the sets, and stop for lunch at the Studio Commissary. With those tourist trips came a big uptick in lunch sales. How could they keep those lunch sales coming?  

“That was literally the impetus for the Studio Tour,” says Murdy. “How can we sell more lunches in the studio commissary?” 

A young executive named Jay Stein was tasked to manage this newfangled vessel for lunch sales. Stein recruited Barry Upson, a designer of the 1964 Seattle World’s Fair, to realize Universal’s own backlot tour. Hollywood legend Harper Goff, responsible for the looks of several iconic 20th century, was brought on as the art director. Goff designed the now legendary candy-striped tour vehicles that criss-crossed the Universal backlot: the “GlamorTrams.” 

In its inaugural year, guests would pay $2.50 (or $1.25 for kids), then hop aboard GlamorTrams to tour the Universal backlot. The two-hour tour included a look at outdoor film sets, a makeup demonstration, a costume display by legendary designer Edith Head and a two-man stunt show. Compared to the whole theme park we know and love today, the Universal Studio Tour was modest to say the least. “It was literally a booth on a trailer on Lankershim Boulevard,” says Murdy, who remembers visiting the Universal backlot as a kid in the early 1970s.  

We might take it for granted now, but regular folks getting to step foot on a movie set was a big deal at the time. Up to then, studios were shrouded in mystery and mystique. In a way, the Studio Tour democratized the moviemaking process — or at least, pulled back the curtain. As LA Times film critic Philip K. Scheuer wrote in 1964:

“You can now visit a bona fide movie and television studio…without having to contact a VIP who happens to be the relative of a bigger VIP, without presenting a letter from your hometown exhibitor or without, heaven be praised, making a last-ditch pitch to the motion picture editor of your favorite newspaper.” 

What was once reserved for the well-connected was now a mass-market product. By its third year, Universal reported 8,000 guests per day. 

An Opportunity For Innovation 

Per his 2023 interview with the LA Times, Stein quickly realized two things in the early days of the Studio Tour. First, you couldn’t bank on the guests seeing an actor on the tour. They were unpredictable and at work. And some actors would even head for the hills at the sight of a GlamorTram. (Though, lots of them loved the tour. As Murdy remembers from his childhood visits to Universal, “We would always see Al Lewis, who played Grandpa Munster. Like, all the time. Whenever we came to Universal, he was just hanging out.”)  

Secondly, Stein realized that studios aren’t inherently entertaining places. Sure, they’re where entertainment is created, but movie sets involve a lot of not-so-dazzling work in between shots. It was from these two observations that Stein realized that in order to survive, Universal needed to guarantee excitement on every tour. They needed to create illusions that would be (from production’s point of view) predictable, repeatable, and above all, entertaining. Guests, of course, must experience it as thrilling and unpredictable, duh. 

Throughout the following years, the tour expanded. It wasn’t just a peek behind the curtain anymore. It included a stunt show, an animal actors show, and a screen test comedy theater. A 1967 visitors pamphlet held in the Universal Archives advertised giant sound stages, a visit to a star’s dressing room, man-made lakes and waterfalls, a visit to the prop department, and exterior sets of New York, Europe, Hong Kong and the Old West. Over at the Visitors Center, guests would be treated to demonstrations by professional makeup artists, a showcase of film costumes, “push-button storms” on the Snow Set and the Rain Set, a peek inside the Munster laboratory (and the opportunity to “touch the button to bring Herman to ‘life’”), and more. 

The Studio Tour had evolved from guests visiting a movie set to guests experiencing movie magic in real time. Universal pushed the limits of interactive entertainment further and further. In the ‘70s, they expanded the studio tour, with the additions of heart-pumping attractions like “Flash Flood,” “Parting of the Red Sea,” and “Jaws Lake” to the itinerary. In the ‘80s, they premiered “Earthquake,” a scarily realistic simulation of an 8.3 seismic tremor. 

And what we now know as the Universal Studios Hollywood theme park came to life in the ‘90s, with attraction additions including “E.T. Adventure,” “Back to the Future: The Ride” and “Jurassic Park—The Ride.” Thanks to the Studio Tour, Universal found itself leading the industry in a whole new kind of fun. 

A 21st Century Tour

In 2000, the Studio Tour underwent a refurbishment to bring it into the new millennium. As the creative director on that project (and a former tour guide himself), Murdy made it his mission to bring the history of the Studio Tour to life on the tour itself. “The main thing I wanted to do was to connect the dots for the guests between the sets they were looking at and the movies they’d seen,” says Murdy. That’s when screens were added to the Studio Tour. Guests could now look out at a set on the Universal backlot, then immediately see a clip of how it had been utilized in a film or show. Murdy had a team whose job it was to watch movies and TV shows to find specific shots of the backlot they needed for the Studio Tour. “I’d be like, ‘I’m pretty sure they walk down Brownstone Street in this ‘50s movie. Can you find that shot?’” In doing so, the Studio Tour became a vehicle (pun intended) for bringing movie history to life — as it remains today. 

Over the past 60 years, Universal Studios Hollywood has gone from entertaining guests with makeup tutorials, to natural disasters caused by movie magic, to adrenaline-pumping thrill rides. Attractions have come and gone, but what remains is the storied past of a studio that brings the screen to real life. And it all began with the Studio Tour. Giving the average movie fan a peek behind the curtain birthed a series of innovations that have changed entertainment forever. 

What’s your favorite part of the World-Famous Studio Tour? Let us know in the comments below!

The post How the World-Famous Studio Tour Helped Shape Entertainment History appeared first on Discover Universal.

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Whether it’s your first time visiting Universal Orlando Resort or your millionth, there are some things you have to do. Sure, everyone in your group is going to be coming with a different agenda and list of must-dos, but these are the most quintessential Universal Orlando experiences. In my experience from visiting the parks for years, working with the company and bombarding my coworkers with emails in asking for their advice, I can assure you that these are the things every visitor has to do.

It doesn’t matter what season or what time of day you’re visiting, or even who you’re with — you can’t claim you’ve “done Universal” without at the very least crossing every item off this list.

Get soaked on the Universal Islands of Adventure Water Rides

Orlando summers can get hot and I don’t doubt you’ll be walking around the park praying for an afternoon downpour. Lucky for you, at Universal Islands of Adventure, you can schedule that aquatic dousing at one of the three water rides! “You don’t get that wet,” your friend may  tell you. A word of warning: they’re lying.

Get a Churro

Is it even a visit to Universal Orlando Resort if you didn’t have this iconic fried treat? No! The smell alone will lure you to one of the many stands scattered around the theme parks, desperate for this  cinnamoney-sugary delicacy. 

Scream with all you’ve got on one of Universal Orlando’s immersive roller coasters

The decision is yours. Will you escape the curse of  the Medjai on Revenge of the Mummy or fly through the Forbidden Forest on Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure? Regardless of which you choose, you can’t go wrong with some of the best roller coasters on the planet!

Smell the iconic E.T. Adventure Queue Line

If you’ve ever been to Universal with a frequent visitor, there’s no doubt they raved about the smell of the E.T. Adventure queue line. At first, you were probably confused, how could the scent of something influence a ride experience?, until you yourself take a deep breath and then everything just  makes sense.

Grab a perfectly-timed globe picture in Universal CityWalk.

It’s a struggle we’ve all had. You strike the perfect pose and find a lovely photographer only to get a picture of “ERSAL.” Half the fun is choosing another pose and trying again.

Escape from a shark attack

“There used to be this really cool ride,” your ‘in-the-know’ Universal friend will tell you by the San Francisco wharf. Pay homage to an attraction that once was with The Shark Attack at Chez Alcatraz, one of my favorite drinks in the parks.

Grab a Margarita from Margaritaville’s Lone Palm Airport

Sipping a water-side margarita while people-watching the theme-park-goers may be my personal heaven on Earth, especially when the margs are as delicious as these are!

Soak in the view at Bar 17 Bistro

Who knew one of Orlando’s best rooftop bars was at the Universal Orlando Resort? I did and now you do too! Sitting 17 floors above Universal’s Aventura Hotel, this incredible bar (with seriously delicious food options) has fantastic views of the Universal Orlando theme parks, Orlando’s International Drive and the expansive flatness of Central Florida. On a clear day, you may even spot Florida’s coast and its out-of-this-world sights.  

Match with your perfect wand at Ollivanders Wand Shop

Matching with a wand is an essential rite-of-passage for witches and wizards in the Wizarding World, so it’s only fitting for a wand to choose you at Ollivanders Wand Shop in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida. Even better, with your wand, you can cast spells throughout the wizarding world!

Check out the current Tribute Store

 A relatively new addition to the Universal Experience, the tribute store is the place to stock up on seasonal merchandise during events like Mardi Gras, Halloween Horror Nights and Holidays. Each room is an experience in itself, exceptionally themed to the season it represents.

Score the highest in the vehicle on Men in Black: Alien Attack

One of the best parts of Men in Black: Alien Attack is the competition that always arises between my friends. Everyone has their personal secrets to getting the highest score, so suit up, push the red button and find yours!

Convert money with a Goblin

As Gringotts Bank is the centerpiece of The Wizarding World of Universal – Diagon Alley, it’s only fitting you can convert some of your money to Gringotts Bank Notes. A goblin will help you with the transaction and the notes can be used in select places around the Universal Orlando Resort.

Scream on the Incredible Hulk Roller Coaster

Sometimes the classics really are the best and I’m sure you’ll agree as you’re launching 67 mph into a double-loop on The Incredible Hulk Coaster. For the non-coaster lovers, watching riders plunge  right under your feet is almost as exhilarating!

Sacrifice your fears on the Ko’okiri Body Plunge

Volcano Bay’s centerpiece volcano, Krakatau, is already pretty impressive, but imagine basically freefalling from the summit! Try to decipher your heartbeat from the pounding drums seconds before plunging over 100-feet back down to the tropical paradise of the water theme park.

Stay in a Themed Kids Suite

You think riding the movies is a blast, try sleeping in them! Whether you go with Jurassic World at Royal Pacific Resort or Despicable Me at Portofino Bay Hotel, you’re sure to level-up your vacation with these hotel rooms.

Try the Waturi Fusion at Volcano Bay

A gorgeous mix of four ice cream flavors (orange, blue raspberry, strawberry and banana), the Waturi Fusion is as pretty as it is delicious. Grab this treat from Koka Poroka Ice Cream Kona in the Waves Village section of the theme park. 

Ride the Hogwarts Express…both ways

Take the legendary trip from King’s Cross Station in the London area of Universal Studios Florida to Hogsmeade Station in Universal Islands of Adventure and then back again for a completely different experience.

Score unique merch at the UNVRS store

Find some cool merchandise at the new UNVRS store in Universal Studios Florida! Full of trendy clothing items, like an incredible Jurassic Park cardigan, this is your one-stop-shop to buy the newest and coolest things from your favorite films.

Rent a cabana at Volcano Bay

Nothing says vacation luxury quite like a poolside cabana. But have you ever experienced a volcano-side cabana? Make sure that next time someone asks you that you can say yes.

Meet the Raptors of Jurassic World

 You approach the Raptor paddocks; your guard’s high as the creature lunges and shrieks. Just when you let it down enough to snap a picture, it comes at you! Meet movie-star Blue or one of her siblings over at Islands of Adventure’s Raptor Encounter

Experience the wizarding world at night

If you thought it was magical during the day, just wait until the sun sets. A ride on Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure at night is one of the most perfectly immersive (and thrilling!) experiences in the whole theme park.

Universal Orlando’s Horror Make-Up Show

 One of Universal Picture’s defining qualities is its special effects. Laugh along with the cast of the show as you learn all about the backside of horror movie effects.

Get the high score on Illumination’s Villan-Con Minion Blast

If you have a competitive streak and dream of having your name broadcast for everyone to see, grab a blaster and take your chance. Good luck!

Hug your favorite character

Is there anything better than meeting your childhood — or let’s be real — adult hero? Whether that be SpongeBob, Shrek, or one of Illuminations Minions, don’t pass up the opportunity to say hi! Some of my favorite meet-and greets are at Illumination Theater in Minion Land and throughout the streets of the Hollywood area.

Talk with Vol or The Mystic Fountain

Almost like magic, these spirits talk back. Vol, hidden deep within Krakatau is my favorite (I used to guard the waters of Volcano Bay’s Waves Village), but the mischievous Mystic Fountain in The Lost Continent is just as fun and willing to get you wet!

Eat Green Eggs and Ham

I can almost bet you’ve been wanting to try the iconic food from the world of Dr. Seuss since you first read the book in first grade. The aptly named Green Eggs & Ham Cafe is your place to grab Green Eggs & Ham Who Hash.

Take the Water Taxi to your hotel room

Talk about rolling into the parks in style; Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Portofino Bay Resort, Loews Royal Pacific and Lowes Sapphire Falls all offer water taxi service between the resort and CityWalk. It’s the perfect way to transition to a relaxing evening after a busy day in the parks!

Learn the spiel on the CityWalk moving walkway

If “The moving walkway exit is approaching please watch your step,” isn’t ingrained into your mind before you leave, then you haven’t spent enough time in the Universal Orlando theme parks. Back on the moving walkway!

Acquaint yourself with the Dark Arts in Knockturn Alley

If I’m being honest, it took me multiple visits to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley before I stumbled into Knockturn Alley. Browse Borgin and Burkes and meet some of the shrunken heads in this spooky alley.

Try one of the six Butterbeer variations

Everyone has a favorite type of Butterbeer they will defend to the end. Which will be your go-to: hot, cold, frozen, fudge, potted cream or ice cream?

Get decked out in your Hogwarts house gear

Robes, scarves and everything in between… the wizarding world has everything you need to represent your house colors with pride. Head to Madam Malkin’s Robes for All Occasions to get the perfect outfits for — well — all occasions!

Grab a Pint at the Duff Brewery Beer Garden and a Krusty Burger from Springfield, U.S.A.

Many of our favorite treats from “The Simpsons” can be found at Fast Food Boulevard.

Take Center Stage at Rising Star

Fulfill your pop star dreams at CityWalk’s Rising Star. Trust me, this is karaoke like you’ve never done before.

Get one of Jacques’ Specialty Milkshakes at The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium

These shakes have to be seen to be believed, and boy have they been seen! With toppings as extravagant as slices of cake and an entire cookie, watching people devour them is half of the fun!

So there you have it! There’s a lot of Universal Orlando to explore, so jump on it!

How many of these have you done? What’s on your Universal Orlando Bucket List? Let us know on social media or in the comments below! Check out this article for more things to do around the resort!

The post Ultimate Bucket List for Universal Orlando Resort appeared first on Discover Universal.

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Ficar em um  hotel do Universal Orlando Resort é uma forma de arte, e pessoal, eu sou uma artista. Não só liderei o planejamento de inúmeras estadias de todos os tipos de férias, mas também passei muitas horas relaxantes jantando, explorando e simplesmente relaxando em cada hotel (dá uma olhadinha na biografia da autora e me encontre no Strong Water Tavern na maioria dos fins de semana). Minha cabeça deitou no travesseiro de todos os oito hotéis da Universal atualmente existentes e até escrevi minha homenagem a eles neste artigo.

Portanto, você pode confiar na minha experiência quando digo que os mais novos hotéis da Universal, Universal Stella Nova Resort e Universal Terra Luna Resort, que serão inaugurados em 21 de Janeiro de 2025 e 25 de Fevereiro de 2025, respectivamente, serão adições maravilhosas a uma linha de hotéis já bastante fenomenal.

Cada hotel de 750 quartos se concentra em um aspecto diferente do mundo astronômico, de planetas terrestres a galáxias celestes. As propriedades são diferentes o suficiente para serem únicas, mas compartilham uma vibe parecida, enfatizando diferentes elementos do mundo extraterrestre em sua temática.

“Traçamos uma linha entre o espaço e as viagens espaciais e a maravilha e a aura do espaço”, diz Russ Dagon, vice-presidente sênior de desenvolvimento de resorts da Universal. “Queríamos tentar capturar essa experiência mágica do espaço. Era realmente sobre a aura e o mistério de tudo isso.”

O Stella Nova Resort é inspirado nas estrelas. Esta propriedade celeste transportará os hóspedes para as galáxias. Do lobby cavernoso com casulos semelhantes a estalactites pendurados no teto às imagens gigantes das galáxias encontradas em todo o hotel (que são fotos reais capturadas por telescópios), nenhuma pedra lunar foi deixada de lado quando se trata do tema.

O Terra Luna Resort tem uma abordagem mais terrestre, com inspiração nos planetas e terrenos ao redor do nosso sistema solar. Ao entrar no também cavernoso lobby, você será recebido por um planeta interativo projetado. Os esquemas de cores em Terra Luna se combinam para criar uma atmosfera de outro mundo, o que obviamente é ótimo como um lugar de descanso para aqueles que visitam os outros mundos nos parques temáticos da Universal.

A parte externa dos hotéis é também uma bela visão, já que os prédios são cobertos com mais de 125.000 revestimentos que mudam de cor. O time criativo viu um gráfico galáctico que capturou a essência dos hotéis e pensou em maneiras de transpor a imagem em um edifício.

“Se você olhar durante o dia – dependendo do dia e da luz – é uma experiência diferente,” diz Dagon. “Você pode dirigir até o Universal Boulevard e parecer uma coisa em um determinado momento e então, se a luz bater, ela vai mudar.”

Jessica Iaconis, a diretora assistente de design do projeto, descreve esse efeito como dicroico e explica que os hotéis mudarão conforme você se movimenta pelas propriedades. Isso torna a experiência do hotel dinâmica. À noite, telhas de aço inoxidável escondidas iluminarão os hotéis em uma galáxia de estrelas.

Cada uma das propriedades possui uma linda piscina, bar e restaurante ao lado da piscina, e uma variedade deliciosa de comidas dentro do hotel. No que diz respeito aos benefícios, estes hotéis entregam. Na abertura, as opções de transporte para os parques existentes da Universal (Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure e Universal Volcano Bay) será um bônus para aqueles planejando uma viagem e buscando novas maneiras de explorar a Universal. Eles também estarão localizados ao lado do futuro parque temático Universal Epic Universe, que vai abrir mais adiante em 2025. Mas estar perto dos parques temáticos não é o único benefício…

Entrada antecipada ao parque (É necessário ter um ingresso válido para os parques temáticos; atrações selecionadas)

Transporte de ônibus gratuito

Pagamento em todos os estabelecimentos do Resort com a chave do quarto

Entrega gratuita de produtos comprados no complexo no Hotel (Restrições se aplicam)

A notícia realmente, realmente boa? As reservas já estão disponíveis. Agora. O que significa, essencialmente, que a esta altura do próximo ano a minha cabeça terá deitado nos travesseiros de dez hotéis da Universal. Eu realmente não posso esperar e você também não deveria.

Fique ligado no blog Discover Universal para mais notícias sobre o que está por vir no Universal Orlando Resort!

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Staying at a Universal Orlando Resort hotel is an art form, and folks — I am An Artist. Not only have I spearheaded the planning for countless stays of every vacation variety, but I’ve also spent many a relaxing hour dining, exploring, and just absolutely thriving at each hotel (peek the author bio and catch me at Strong Water Tavern most weekends). My head has hit the pillow at all eight currently-existing Universal hotels and I even penned my opus and homage to them in this article.

And so, you can trust my expertise when I tell you that Universal’s newest hotels — Universal Stella Nova Resort and Universal Terra Luna Resort, opening January 21, 2025 and February 25, 2025, respectively — are going to be wonderful additions to an already pretty dang phenomenal line-up of hotels. 

Each 750-room hotel focuses on a different aspect of the astronomical world, from terrestrial planets to celestial galaxies. The properties are different enough to be unique, but share a generally cohesive vibe, emphasizing different elements of the extraterrestrial world in their theming.

“We drew a line between space and space travel and the wonder and aura of space,” says Russ Dagon, the senior vice president for resort development with Universal. “We wanted to try to capture that magical experience of space. It was really about the aura and the mystery of it all.”

Stella Nova Resort is inspired by the stars. This celestial property will transport guests into the galaxies. From the cavernous lobby with stalactite-like cocoons hanging from the ceiling to the giant images of the galaxies found throughout the hotel (which are actual pictures captured from telescopes), no moon stone was left unturned when it comes to the theming.

Terra Luna Resort takes a more terrestrial approach, with inspiration from the planets and terrain around our solar system. Stepping into the also-cavernous lobby, you’ll be greeted by an interactive projected planet. The color schemes in Terra Luna Resort combine to create an atmosphere that is otherworldly, which is obviously very apt as a resting place for those visiting the other worlds throughout Universal’s theme parks. 

The exteriors of the hotels are truly a sight to see, too, as the buildings are covered with over 125,000 color-changing tiles. The creative team saw a galaxy graphic they felt captured the overall essence of the hotels and brainstormed ways to transpose the image onto a building. 

“If you see it during the day — depending on the day and the lighting — it’s a different experience,” Dagon says. “You can drive down Universal Boulevard and it looks like one thing at one point in time and then — if the light hits it — it changes.”

Jessica Iaconis, the assistant director of facility design on the project, describes this effect as dichroic and elaborates that the hotels will change as you move around the properties. It makes the hotel’s experience dynamic; at night, hidden stainless steel tiles will illuminate the hotels into a galaxy of stars. 

Each property has a beautiful swimming pool, poolside bar and grill, and a delicious line-up of on-property dining options. As far as benefits are concerned, these hotels deliver. At opening, their transportation options to Universal’s existing theme parks (Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure and Universal Volcano Bay) will be a major bonus for those planning a trip and looking for a new way to explore Universal. They will also be located adjacent to the future site of the new Universal Epic Universe theme park, which will open at a later date in 2025. But being close to the theme parks isn’t the only theme park benefit…

Early Park Admission (Valid theme park admission required; select attractions)

Complimentary Shuttle Bus Transportation

Resort Charging with Room Key

Merchandise Delivery to Hotel (Restrictions apply)

The really, really good news? Bookings are available right. now. Which essentially means that by this time next year my head will have hit the pillows at ten Universal hotels. I truly cannot wait and neither should you.

Stay tuned to Discover Universal blog for more news on what’s on the horizon at Universal Orlando Resort!

The post Details Revealed About Universal Orlando Resort’s Newest Hotels appeared first on Discover Universal.

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Alojarse en un  hotel de Universal Orlando Resort es una forma de arte, y amigos, soy una artista. No solo he encabezado la planificación  de innumerables estadías de todo tipo de vacaciones, sino que también he pasado muchas horas relajantes cenando, explorando y relajándome absolutamente en cada hotel (ve la biografía de la autora y encuéntreme en Strong Water Tavern la mayoría de los fines de semana). Mi cabeza ha golpeado la almohada de los ocho hoteles Universal que existen actualmente e incluso escribí mi homenaje a ellos en este artículo.

Por lo tanto, puedes confiar en mi experiencia cuando te digo que los hoteles más nuevos de Universal, Universal Stella Nova Resort y Universal Terra Luna Resort, que abrirán en 21 de enero de 2025 y 25 de febrero de 2025, respectivamente, serán maravillosas adiciones a una línea de hoteles ya bastante fenomenales.

Cada hotel de 750 habitaciones se centra en un aspecto diferente del mundo astronómico, desde planetas terrestres hasta galaxias celestes. Las propiedades son lo suficientemente diferentes como para ser únicas, pero comparten un ambiente generalmente cohesivo, enfatizando diferentes elementos del mundo extraterrestre en su temática.

“Trazamos una línea entre el espacio y los viajes espaciales y la maravilla y el aura del espacio”, dice Russ Dagon, vicepresidente senior de desarrollo de resorts de Universal. “Queríamos tratar de capturar esa experiencia mágica del espacio. Realmente se trataba del aura y el misterio de todo”.

Stella Nova Resort se inspira en las estrellas. Esta propiedad celestial transportará a los visitantes a las galaxias. Desde el lobby cavernoso con capullos similares a estalactitas que cuelgan del techo hasta las imágenes gigantes de las galaxias que se encuentran en todo el hotel (que son imágenes reales capturadas con telescopios), no se dejó ninguna piedra lunar sin remover cuando se trata de la temática.

Terra Luna Resort adopta un enfoque más terrestre, inspirándose en los planetas y el terreno que rodea nuestro sistema solar. Al entrar en el lobby también cavernoso, serás recibido por un planeta proyectado interactivo. Los esquemas de color en Terra Luna se combinan para crear una atmósfera que es de otro mundo, que obviamente es muy apta como lugar de descanso para aquellos que visitan los otros mundos en los parques temáticos de Universal.

Los exteriores de los hoteles también son realmente un espectáculo digno de ver, ya que los edificios están cubiertos con más de 125.000 azulejos que cambian de color. El equipo creativo vio un gráfico galáctico que, en su opinión, capturaba la esencia general de los hoteles e hizo una lluvia de ideas sobre formas de trasladar la imagen a un edificio.

“Si lo ves durante el día, dependiendo del día y de la iluminación, es una experiencia diferente”, dice Dagon. “Puedes conducir por Universal Boulevard y parece una cosa en un momento dado y luego, si la luz la golpea, cambia”.

Jessica Iaconis, la directora asistente de diseño de este proyecto, describe este efecto como dicroico y explica que los hoteles cambiarán a medida que te muevas por las propiedades. Hace que la experiencia del hotel sea dinámica. Por la noche, las baldosas ocultas de acero inoxidable iluminarán los hoteles en una galaxia de estrellas.

Cada una de las propiedades tiene una linda piscina, bar y restaurante al lado de la piscina y muchas opciones deliciosas de comida dentro del hotel. Y acerca de los beneficios, estos hoteles cumplen. En la apertura, sus opciones de transporte a los parques temáticos existentes de Universal (Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure y Universal Volcano Bay) será una gran ventaja para aquellos que planean un viaje y que buscan nuevas maneras de explorar Universal. También se ubicarán junto al futuro sitio del nuevo parque temático Universal Epic Universe, que se inaugurará en una fecha posterior en 2025. Pero estar cerca de los parques temáticos no es el único beneficio de los parques temáticos…

Entrada temprana al parque (Se requiere un ticket válido a los parques; atracciones seleccionadas)

Transporte en autobús de cortesía

Pagar cosas en el resort con la llave de la habitación

Entrega gratis de compras hechas en el complejo al hotel (Se aplican restricciones)

¿La muy, muy buena noticia? Las reservas están disponibles a la derecha. Ahora. Lo que esencialmente significa que para esta época del próximo año mi cabeza habrá golpeado las almohadas en diez hoteles Universal. Realmente no puedo esperar y tú tampoco deberías.

¡Estén atentos al blog Discover Universal para obtener más noticias sobre las novedades de Universal Orlando Resort!

The post Detalles revelados sobre los hoteles más nuevos de Universal Orlando appeared first on Discover Universal.

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Happy 60th Anniversary to the World-Famous Studio Tour! This beloved attraction isn’t just a fan favorite; it kicked off a series of innovations that completely reshaped the themed entertainment industry. To honor this game-changing tram tour, Universal Studio Hollywood has a whole bunch of vintage-inspired fun in store from April 26 to August 11, 2024.

A (very) quick history lesson: The Studio Tour began in 1964 as Universal Studios’ humble effort to get tourists onto the lot to pay for lunch at the commissary. Guests paid $2.50, hopped aboard a candy-striped “GlamorTram,” and got to peek at film sets, a stunt show, a makeup demonstration and a costume show. In doing so, Universal effectively demystified the movie-making process, as film sets had until then been largely closed off to the public. But beyond that, the Universal Studio Tour birthed a series of innovations that changed entertainment forever. Showcasing practical effects on the Studio Tour led to creating thrill rides based on beloved movies, which led to…well, what Universal Studios Hollywood is today. 

Six decades and over 200 million guests later, the Studio Tour basically invented the modern theme park. So how could Universal not throw a party for it? Here’s everything you need to know about the celebrations for the 60th Anniversary of the Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood.

A Special Edition Studio Tour 

Even if you’ve been on the Studio Tour before, you’ve definitely never experienced what the 60th Anniversary of the Studio Tour has to over. Naturally, the biggest Studio Tour celebrations are happening on the attraction itself. The whole tour is getting a makeover for its anniversary, including updated decor, new scripts for the tour guides, and new media content (featuring new celebrity cameos) you’ll watch on the tour.

The trams themselves are getting in on the fun, too: several will be made up to look like old school, candy-striped Glamor Trams, just like those from the 1960s. Plus, new (and oh-so quiet) electric trams will take guests cruising through the past in modern style. 

Step Onto an Iconic Movie Set 

The 60th Anniversary Studio Tour is so much more than a makeover. For the first time in decades, guests will get to step off the Studio Tour trams and experience the studio backlot by foot! Once the tram reaches a certain well-known movie set, you’ll get to deboard for some extra special photo ops. Not only will you get an opportunity to get up close and personal with an old-school Glamor Tram, but you’ll get unique photo ops inspired by some of Universal’s most adored blockbusters. Some of those include special, cinematic AR filters, but we’ll keep that as a fun surprise. 

And, just a heads up, you are on one of the creepiest sets in movie history. Keep an eye out for a certain someone lurking around the set. He just might be amenable to a selfie — if you’re lucky. 

Experience Historic Studio Tour Moments

The World-Famous Studio Tour is always a fun history lesson, but this special version will really relish in the legacy of this iconic attraction. Several iterations of the Studio Tour have traversed the studio backlot. That means celebrated experiences have come and gone, including the Parting of the Red Sea, the Ice Tunnel, and so many more. This year’s gussied-up tour will give you a taste of those retired moments: as you pass the location of an erstwhile Studio Tour moment, the tram screens will display what Classic Moment used to be there. For history nerds like me, this is huge.

Even better, though: one of those Classic Moments is returning to the World-Famous Studio Tour for this celebratory event! The Runaway Train, which originally ran from 1974-1985, is back in action for the 60th Anniversary of the Studio Tour. (An archival photo of the original is shown above.) If you want to see an old-school attraction up and running again, you’ll definitely need to take a spin on the Studio Tour this summer. 

A New Look For a Beloved Classic 

One beloved Studio Tour moment has a whole new look for 2024. “Earthquake – The Big One” which replicates an 8.3 Richter scale seismic shift inside a 1989 San Francisco BART station, has been revamped as a modern subway stop, complete with electric bikes and sleek white tiles. Don’t worry, “Earthquake – The Big One” hasn’t lost any of the thrills its namesake promises. Complete with a fire, a ceiling crashing in, a gas tank sliding into the station, a flood — all fabricated with practical effects, of course – the 21st century spin on the crowd favorite won’t disappoint. 

Celebratory Food and Beverage Offerings

What’s a celebration without party food, right? Throughout the festivities, Universal will have special, retro-inspired eats, drinks and desserts available throughout the park. Here’s what you can expect on the food and beverage front:

Special Edition Popcorn Bucket

Great news for collectors: for the 60th Anniversary of the Studio Tour, Universal Studios Hollywood is rolling out one of its more adorable popcorn buckets ever. Classic Universal cartoon character Woody Woodpecker helms the Studio Tour on this delightful snack vessel. Woody might not actually drive the Glamor Tram in real life, but let us dream, OK?

Festive Drinks

The park has two celebratory drinks on tap to honor the 60th. And they are both, in a word, extra— in the very best way. First is the non-alcoholic Lava Lamp, a swirl of Sprite, alcohol-free blue Curaçao, grenadine and sparkling cranberry juice, topped with blue raspberry Pop Rocks. 

For the 21+ crowd, there’s the Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend, a vodka hibiscus lemonade; the Shark Bite, a tequila-based drink with tropical vibes and a shark lollipop; the Old Hollywood, with whiskey, a root beer liqueur and cream soda; and the rum-based Kong Tiki which, appropriately, uses banana and other fruit flavors. When I said extra, I meant it. 

Celebratory Snacks

Guests can enjoy 60th Anniversary snacks on-the-go, too. City Snack Shop, a to-go stand flanking Production Plaza on the Upper Lot, is offering giant pretzels shaped like the number 60, special edition Banana Breath Popcorn (that’s caramel + banana chips), and a whole lineup of commemorative sugar cookies — including one shaped like a candy-striped Glamor Tram. Just don’t forget to Instagram it before you take a bite!

Nostalgic Meals

You’ll find the bulk of the Studio Tour 60th Anniversary offerings at Hollywood & Dine and Mel’s, two eateries located on the Upper Lot. Hollywood & Dine will boast a drool-worthy slate of sandwiches — smoked brisket, BBQ cheeseburger, BBQ pulled pork, and BBQ grilled chicken — all on adorable Woody Woodpecker buns. Over at Mel’s, guests will nosh on fried chicken and meatloaf served on throwback combo trays. It’s just so charmingly ‘60s, isn’t it? 

Delightful Desserts

If you’re a can’t-skip-dessert person like me, you’ll be particularly amped for the Studio Tour 60th anniversary. Over at Hollywood & Dine, guests can dig into sweets inspired by Woody Woodpecker’s pal Chilly Willy: the Chilly Willy Funnel Cake, and the Chilly Willy snowball. Film Reel Cookie Sandwich, which is a sugar cookie with cream filling shaped, yes, like a film reel. Lights! Camera! Dig in! 

Down on the Lower Lot, Studio Scoop has whipped up some throwback treats for the festivities, too. You might need a buddy to dig into Kong’s Ice Cream Sundae, a gigantic banana split topped with strawberry, chocolate, waffle cone chunks, candy bananas, whipped cream, banana chips and a 60th Anniversary cookie. If you don’t have a Kong-sized appetite, try the Glam Tram Cone: vanilla soft serve with a strawberry flavor swirl, also topped with a 60th Anniversary cookie. 

And don’t miss out on the big daddy of ‘em all: the 60th Donut. It’s technically two donuts covered in blue icing and candy pearls, because we’re just that serious about celebrating. 

PRO TIP: In-between sundaes and donuts, keep your eyes peeled for blue signs reading HERE BACK THEN all throughout the theme park. When you scan the QR code, you’ll get a look at the retired attractions or shows that used to stand in that same spot. 

Limited-Edition Throwback Merch

The Studio Tour 60th aesthetic is looking cute. Inspired by the red and white stripes on the original Glamor Trams, these shirts, jackets, hats, mugs, cups and so much more will be available at Universal Studio Store at CityWalk, Universal Studio Store (inside the theme park) and Production Central (also inside the theme park) all celebration long. Because we all want a piece of history all to ourselves, right? 

That’s what’s on the docket for the Studio Tour 60th Anniversary celebration at Universal Studios Hollywood! What’s your favorite part of the backlot tour? Let us know in the comments below. 

Must be 21 years and older with valid identification to purchase or drink alcoholic beverages.

The post Guide to the Studio Tour 60th Anniversary Celebration at Universal Studios Hollywood appeared first on Discover Universal.

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Love ice cream? Love “Harry Potter”? If yes, then we’ve got great news for you: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Hollywood has a new ice cream joint! You can get your frozen fix at the new Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream, a new dessert counter at Honeydukes. Florean Fortescue’s has been a staple at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida for years. And I, for one, am thrilled to welcome these delicious frozen treats to the West Coast. The new soft-serve counter is officially open for business!

Florean Fortescue’s serves 10 flavors of soft serve, including Butterbeer (thank goodness), Chocolate, Orange, Toffee Nut, Pistachio, Banana, Mint, Vanilla, Granny Smith Apple and Toffee Apple. And did I mention it has Butterbeer ice cream? In any case, let me repeat that: Butterbeer soft-serve ice cream. If you enjoy Butterbeer in a stein, just wait ‘til you try it in a waffle cone. The soft serve has a vanilla base with a flavor ribbon of Butterbeer, to make a perfect swirl of wizarding world deliciousness. 

As mentioned, the new dessert counter is situated inside Honeydukes, and will open in early April, and is a permanent addition to Universal Studios Hollywood. It’ll surely become one of our new must-dos in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Plus, Gold and Platinum Annual Pass Members will get a discount here.

What’s more, the opening coincides with the first annual Butterbeer Season! This six-week celebration of all things Butterbeer is running now through April 30, 2024. Throughout the season, you can expect fun Butterbeer-related goodies available for purchase, including adorable silver Butterbeer steins.

What flavor of Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream are you most excited to try? Let us know in the comments below. 

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Nostalgia has always been part of my personal brand. I can’t help it. A known sentimentalist who frequently uses storytelling as an escape, I find it very easy to dwell in the feeling of another time. And when that reminiscence can be taken beyond imagining and into the realm of the tangible and physical, that’s when I’m really in my element. 

Lucky for me, one of the most transporting examples of the vintage charm I cherish lies a short walk away from the theme parks of Universal Orlando Resort at Universal Cabana Bay Beach Resort. But that’s not all this hotel has going for it… So sit back, turn on some old-fashioned rock ‘n’ roll, and let me tell you all you need to know!

ABOUT THE HOTEL

Brilliantly designed for fun and affordability, you’ll find everything you need for a memorable vacation right here.

Price Range: $$

Perfect for: Families and groups on a budget who want to stay close to the action, but still have room to spread out; fans of Universal Volcano Bay.

Theming: The clock starts to rewind right as you pull up to Cabana Bay Beach Resort, where there are classic cars lining the outside of the lobby and a sign that says you’re in for “COLOR TV” and “COLD AIR.” But the real immersion happens when you step out of the present and into a Floridian beach resort circa the 1950s and 60s. Retro tunes fill your ears as you take in the colorful, pop-art-inspired atmosphere. Heading into the courtyard, you’ll notice buildings accompanied by giant names written with midcentury flare: “Starlight,” “Thunderbird,” “Castaway.” Welcome to the picture-perfect past! Your stay has begun. 

Rooms: After you check in, you’ll quickly find the decor doesn’t stop in the lobby. Every room is decked out with vibrant shapes, clean lines, and fun details. Let’s take a look at some options!

Standard Room: 2 queen beds, a flat screen TV, and a mini-fridge — who knew the basics could be this stylish?

Family Suite: 2 queen beds in the bedroom, a pull-out sofa in the living room, 2 flat screen TVs, plus a kitchenette with a mini-fridge, microwave, and sink — perfect for larger groups.

Volcano View: With truly stunning views of the mighty Krakatau at Volcano Bay, these are some of the most coveted rooms in all of Universal Orlando Resort!

Pool View: Cabana Bay is home to two tropical pools, the Cabana Courtyard And Pool and the Lazy River Courtyard And Pool, both of which are a sight to behold. (Keep reading for more deets on these!

Mobility and Hearing Accessible Rooms: All the appeal of the rooms listed above, but with features like a tub with grab bars, wider door openings, and visual alarms and doorbells — making the fun accessible to all.

Benefits

The value of a Universal hotel extends way beyond themes and amenities. Every day in the parks (valid theme park admission required) is made easier by the advantages offered with your stay. 

Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Enter the park up to one hour before it opens and knock out some of the most popular rides and attractions before the crowds.

Walking Path to Volcano Bay: Cabana Bay Beach Resort is literal steps away from a tropical oasis. You won’t have to deal with buses or other forms of transportation. Just whisk yourself down the path to paradise!

Transportation to Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure, and Universal CityWalk: Complimentary shuttle buses offer a quick hop on/hop off solution for getting to the action.

Room Key Charging: You can easily charge purchases to your room resort-wide ­(in the theme parks and at Universal CityWalk)… all you need is your room key!

Complimentary Purchase Delivery: Speaking of shopping, select stores throughout the resort will deliver your purchases directly to your hotel, keeping your hands free.

WHAT TO DO

While the theme parks are just minutes away from your doorstep, it’s also possible to have a fully eventful or relaxing day and never leave Cabana Bay Beach Resort. In fact, I would encourage it when planning your Orlando vacation.

Pools

My first stop after checking into any hotel is the pool area. I need to know what my lounging afternoons are going to look like, after all. Here, I’m never disappointed.

There are two pools to choose from:

Cabana Courtyard and Pool: On one side, you have a dive-tower themed water slide, cabanas for rent, fire pits, and the Atomic Tonic bar for all your food and drink needs.

Lazy River Courtyard and Pool: On the other, a pool with its very own winding river and sand beach, in addition to fire pits and the Hideaway Bar & Grill. Let me say that again: A lazy river right in your hotel, with amazing views of the Krakatau, the mighty volcano of Volcano Bay!

Personally, I’m headed straight for an inner tube where you can find me floating to my hearts’ content… at least until I’m in need of a cocktail.

Galaxy Bowl

Straight out of every beloved 50s-inspired movie, you’ll find 10 lanes of fun for the whole family at the heart of Cabana Bay Beach Resort. Retro style blends seamlessly with modern technology as you record a strike and enjoy a table service restaurant with sandwiches, hamburgers, pizzas and a fully stocked bar.

I find this to be one of the real hidden gems of Universal Orlando Resort as a whole. It’s not something you think to look for, and yet, you could spend an entire afternoon here easily.

Jack LaLanne Physical Fitness Studio

An ode to the “Godfather of Fitness,” this gym is complimentary for guests and will keep you in tip top shape on vacation. It even contains décor and artifacts from the home of Jack LaLanne, himself!

Ace the Arcade

Your kids (and kids at heart) will stay occupied all day long exploring this haven of arcade classics and modern video game favorites.

WHAT TO EAT & DRINK

I keep dwelling on the hotel’s immersive qualities — the architecture, the furnishing, the music. Well, add food to that list because dining here is immersive in its own right.

Shakes Malt Shoppe

No visit to the midcentury is complete without sitting on a stool and casually sipping a delicious milkshake. Harkening back to the soda counters of old, this place deserves a stop any time of the day. Serving breakfast, as well as a mouthwatering array of ice cream-based goods, you’ll probably find a reason to return tomorrow, too. 

For those 21 and older, I suggest the Chocolate Peanut Butter shake from the “Grown-Up” list with peanut butter ice cream, peanut butter whisky, and whipped cream.

Bayliner Diner

Centrally located, this large food court contains everything you need to feed your family breakfast, lunch, and dinner. With stations specializing in sandwiches, pizzas, burgers, salads, desserts, and grab-and-go options, everyone will find what they’re craving. But perhaps the best detail lies in the entertainment: Throughout the dining area, you’ll see large screens broadcasting nostalgic commercials, completely enveloping you in the origins of the TV dinner era.

PRO TIP: This is also where you can grab a s’mores kit to take out to those poolside fire pits I mentioned for a real treat!

Swizzle Lounge

Those of drinking age will find this swanky watering hole not too far from the lobby. Try the signature Swizzle Rum Punch or opt for one of many other creative cocktails. With a full set of barstools and colorful arrays of armchairs, you’ll find the perfect seat to let the atmosphere sweep you into a bygone age.

Atomic Tonic & Hideaway Bar & Grill

You don’t have to leave the pool areas when you get hungry. These hot spots are perfect for lunch and dinner with grilled options, sandwiches, pizza, salads, and beverages to keep you cool. Note the out of this world details of Atomic Tonic that harken back to the glory days of the space coast — a great touch!

Delizioso Pizza

Two words: room delivery. After a full day exploring the parks, you collapse in bed and decide you really don’t want to move again to get food. Perhaps the best news you’ve heard all day is that the food can come to you! Soon, you’re enjoying the cheesy goodness of a pizza with salad and dessert on the side.

Starbucks

You undoubtedly need some fuel before you take advantage of that Early Park Admission we discussed, and the lobby has you covered. Get caffeinated with your routine order and feel ready to go by the time the shuttle arrives.

WHERE TO SHOP

Taking a piece of my temporary home back to my permanent home is always something I treasure about vacations. There are plenty of keepsakes to be found here!

Universal Studios Store

The perfect stop for a souvenir run or for last-minute toiletry needs, you’ll undoubtedly end up frequenting this central market. Stock up on mementos branded with beloved characters you’ve enjoyed in the parks. What I love most, though, are the items you can’t get in any other store: T-shirts, bathrobes, and other home goods with the Cabana Bay logo. For years to come, you’ll be able to look at that retro emblem, smile, and remember your trip back in time.

SPECIAL EVENTS

Certain times of year call for a little something extra when it comes to hotel décor…

Halloween Horror Nights

Every year when fall rolls around, the fog creeps into Universal Studios Florida and nights are suddenly filled with the screams of Halloween Horror Nights. Fright fans will definitely want to consider a stay at Cabana Bay Beach Resort because the festivities often extend to the hotel. In the past, we’ve seen fun photo ops and special food offerings. Plus, resort guests can arrive at the separately ticketed event via a resort-dedicated entrance by presenting their room key, allowing for more time in the thick of the terror.

Holidays

In the winter, ‘tis the season for trees topped with tinsel! Cheery adornments pop up all over the lobby, perfect for your family’s celebration and even a photo op for a holiday card.

If you’re sold on making Cabana Bay Beach Resort a part of your next great adventure, click here to make a reservation today!

The post Guide to Cabana Bay Beach Resort at Universal Orlando Resort appeared first on Discover Universal.

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Com o Universal Epic Universe no horizonte, está na hora de voar para dentro da área de Hiccup (Soluço), Toothless (Banguela), os Vikings escandalosos e os dragões indisciplinados que podem ser encontrados em How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk.

Um dos cinco mundos encontrados no Epic Universe, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk é uma vila Viking maior que a vida com cinco atrações incríveis, encontros com os dragões (alguém aí pronto para tirar uma foto com o Toothless?) e oportunidades para comer e comprar como um Viking.

Esse mundo é onde as histórias de How to Train Your Dragon se materializam para treinadores de dragões com ou sem experiência (Por um acaso eu moro com um entusiasta de dragões de 11 anos, então pode confiar em mim). É hora de mergulhar em tudo o que os visitantes poderão vivenciar em How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk.

Uma atração por si só

Do momento em que os visitantes passam pelo portal do Celestial Park para How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, eles são imersos em uma enorme vila Viking cheia de relevos e cores situada acima do mar. Recebidos pelas estátuas icônicas de um Dragão e um Viking que aparecem nos filmes, os visitantes poderão então olhar para o mundo de Berk, com uma lagoa cheia de barcos Vikings.

“Assim como nos filmes, a primeira vista da Isle of Berk é através das estátuas do Viking e do dragão com uma visão dos penhascos montanhosos, casas de dragões e montanhas ao fundo,” diz a produtora executiva do projeto, Katy Pacitti. “Você vai ficar impactado com a escala desse mundo e com a vibração. Nós consideramos esse mundo uma atração por si só; o objetivo sempre foi deixar Berk viva e criar uma área vibrante e vívida onde os Vikings e os dragões vivem em harmonia.”

Desenvolvida para se encaixar na história de How to Train Your Dragon entre o segundo e terceiro filmes, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk será o maior mundo no novo parque temático, exceto pelo Celestial Park, e criado como uma vila Viking do século oitavo. Esse mundo é uma obra de arte que terá itens do tamanho Viking, incluindo portas de quase três metros de altura, bancos feitos à mão esculpidos por uma serra, tapeçarias e seis edifícios de madeira verdadeira, com diversos dragões cuspidores de fogo magníficos que podem ser encontrados por lá.

Quando os visitantes entrarem pelo portal, eles estarão pisando em Berk e poderão ver a Ilha diante de seus olhos. O time por detrás desse projeto descreve essa sensação como um “momento inspirador e de cair o queixo” já que a escala grandiosa dessa área estará a vista.

Atrações em How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk

O mundo possui 5 atrações, incluindo os encontros com os personagens mais icônicos dos filmes.

Hiccup’s Wing Gliders 

Nessa montanha-russa, os visitantes pegarão carona no novo planador de Hiccup (Soluço): uma máquina voadora com asas que vai lançar os aspirantes a Montadores de Dragões pelo céu para ver Berk assim como um dragão. 

The Untrainable Dragon

Nesse show ao vivo com os amados personagens (incluindo Hiccup (Soluço), Gobber e Astrid), um novo dragão aparece na Isle of Berk e os Vikings acham que podem ter finalmente encontrado um adversário à altura para o dragão “intreinável”. Um dos pontos altos do show inclui Toothless (Banguela) voando diretamente acima do público.

“Eu estou muito animada para ver Toothless (Banguela) voar porque ele é muito impressionante e emocionante,” diz Pacitti. “Além disso, o dragão intreinável é simplesmente lindo.”

Apesar de muito similar ao show no Universal Beijing Resort, The Untrainable Dragon no Universal Epic Universe se passa em um período de tempo diferente e conta com personagens variados.

Dragon Racer’s Rally

Na Dragon Racer’s Rally, os visitantes podem praticar manobras no ar e rolar nos barris em alta velocidade em um treinador de montadores de dragão feito pelos Vikings na esperança de se tornar um campeão de corrida dos Dragões.

Essa atração emocionante e voadora possui um sistema novo para a Universal Destinations & Experiences e tem como tema o pior montador de dragões da série, Snotlout, e a melhor montadora de dragões, Astrid.

Fyre Drill

Nessa atração selvagem e molhada, Ruffnut & Tuffnut (a dupla de gêmeos histérica dos filmes) transformaram a Berk’s Fyre Skööl em uma batalha de barcos onde os times de Vikings competem para marcar pontos e molhar uns aos outros enquanto tentam atingir 130 alvos que se movem espalhados pela atração. Localizada no meio do mundo, dentro da lagoa, os visitantes poderão ver essa atração de vários ângulos diferentes.

Viking Training Camp

Os pequenos Vikings descobrirão todos os tipos de dragões enquanto escalam, escorregam e exploram um amplo acampamento interativo e playground oferecido por Fishlegs, o especialista em dragões que mora na Isle of Berk. 

Encontros com personagens

Os Dragões estão vivos e ativos na How To Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk com encontros com personagens e dragões que podem ser vistos ao redor do mundo.

Provavelmente o momento mais esperado será encontrar e tirar fotos com o Toothless (Banguela) e Hiccup (Soluço) em uma  clareira tranquila criada para honrar a ligação entre o dragão e o Viking.

“Eu realmente penso que o encontro com o Toothless (Banguela) é o que vai surpreender a todos,” diz Pacitti. “Vai ser uma experiência para o visitante que estabelecerá um novo padrão.”

Dragões e personagens icônicos poderão ser vistos ao redor do mundo com destaques que incluem:

Astrid e seu Deadly Nadder, Stormfly além de Ruffnut e Tuffnut podem ser vistos andando pelo mundo e interagindo com os visitantes.

Gobber e seu querido dragão Hotburple, Grump são o centro das atenções na Forja.

Onde comer e fazer compras em How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk

Como os visitantes poderão ver ao redor do Epic Universe, a experiência imersiva dos mundos continua nos restaurantes e, dentro de How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, comer como um Viking é importante para que os visitantes possam manter a energia para as aventuras com dragões.

Mead Hall é o coração pulsante de Berk. Esse salão grandioso é um espaço enorme e o principal ponto de encontro da vila. Uma grande câmara talhada na pedra da montanha, com um grande candelabro pendurado no teto, aqui os Vikings podem se deliciar com refeições saudáveis e podem aproveitar cervejas e hidromel criados apenas para esse restaurante casual.

Fique ligado para mais detalhes sobre os restaurantes e produtos!

O que esperar na abertura

Como é a primeira vez que o mundo dos dragões e Berk se materializam para fora dos filmes e em uma escala enorme, How To Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk (quando abrir) será um espetáculo visual e interativo no Universal Epic Universe. Desbravar esse mundo será o resultado de anos de criação e desenvolvimento para os times de Universal Creative, Universal Orlando Resort e DreamWorks que mal podem esperar para compartilhar tudo o que criaram.

“Estar nas docas de entrada e ver os visitantes entrando vai ser provavelmente a coisa que eu mais quero vivenciar nessa abertura,” conta Pacitti. “Não tem nada como vivenciar a primeira reação de um visitante a algo que você acabou de passar anos construindo.”

Além disso, poder compartilhar esse mundo incrível com os fãs de dragões pela primeira vez vai ser um momento sem igual.

Para esse escritor, ver a animação no rosto do meu filho quando ele entrar em How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk e encontrar seus queridos dragões pessoalmente pela primeira vez, certamente vai criar uma memória que vai ficar comigo (e, tenho certeza, também fará lágrimas caírem).

Portanto, o que você acha, está pronto para voar com dragões em 2025? Eu sei que eu estou.

Para saber mais sobre How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk e Universal Epic Universe, clique aqui e registre-se para mais atualizações por e-mail.

É necessário ter 21 anos ou mais com um documento de identidade válido para comprar ou beber bebidas alcoólicas.

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With Universal Epic Universe on the horizon, it is time to soar deep into the land of Hiccup, Toothless the raucous Vikings and rambunctious dragons found in How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk.

One of the the five worlds found in Epic Universe, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk is a larger-than-life Viking village featuring five exhilarating attractions, dragon meet-and-greets (anyone ready to take a pic with Toothless?) and opportunities to dine and shop like a Viking.

This world is where the How to Train Your Dragon stories come to life for experienced and novice dragon trainers alike. (I just so happen to live with an 11-year-old dragon enthusiast, so you can trust my expertise.) Time to dive into everything guests will get to experience at How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk. 

An Attraction Unto Itself

From the moment guests step through the portal from Celestial Park to How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, they are immersed in a rugged, massive and wildly colorful Viking village perched above the sea. Welcomed by the iconic Viking and dragon statues featured in the films, guests will then look out over the world of Berk featuring a lagoon dotted with Viking ships.

“As is seen in the films, our first view of the Isle of Berk is through the Viking and dragon sentry statues with a view of rocky cliffs, dragon houses and mountains in the background,” says the executive producer for the project, Katy Pacitti. “You will be struck by the scale of the world and the vibrancy. We consider the world an attraction itself; the goal was always to make Berk alive and create a very vibrant and lively land where Vikings and dragons live in harmony.”

Developed to fit the How to Train Your Dragon storyline between the second and third films, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk will be the largest world in the new theme park (besides Celestial Park) and modeled after an eighth century Viking village. The world is a visual and sensory masterpiece showcasing handmade Viking-size features, including nine-foot-tall doors, handmade benches carved by chainsaw, woven tapestries and six real-timber buildings, with numerous magnificent fire-breathing dragons found throughout. In addition, guests will be able to fully experience iconic locations from the films including Gobber’s Forge, Hiccup’s House and the Dragon racing bleachers.

When guests enter through the portal, they will set foot into Berk and able to see the Isle spread out before them. The team behind the project describes it as an “awe-inspiring, jaw-dropping moment” as the massive scale of the land is on display.

What to Ride in How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk 

The world features five attractions along with meet and greets with some of the films’ most iconic characters. 

Hiccup’s Wing Gliders 

On this soaring coaster, guests are taking a ride in Hiccup’s new glider contraption: a winged flying machine that launches aspiring Dragon Riders into the sky for a dragon’s eye view of Berk. 

The Untrainable Dragon

In this live show featuring beloved characters (including Hiccup, Gobber and Astrid), a new dragon shows up on the Isle of Berk and the Vikings think they may have finally met their match with the mystery of the untrainable dragon. A show highlight includes Toothless flying directly overhead.

“I’m really excited to watch Toothless fly because he’s pretty impressive and exciting,” says Pacitti. “In addition, the untrainable dragon is just beautiful.”

While similar to the show at Universal Beijing Resort, The Untrainable Dragon at Universal Epic Universe is set in a different time period and features varied characters. 

Dragon Racer’s Rally

At Dragon Racer’s Rally, guests can practice aerobatic maneuvers and high-speed barrel rolls on a Viking-made dragon-riding trainer in hopes of becoming champion dragon-racers. 

This high-thrill flying attraction features a ride system new to Universal Destinations & Experiences and is themed after the worst dragon racer from the series, Snotlout, and the best dragon racer, Astrid.

Fyre Drill

In this wild and wet ride, Ruffnut & Tuffnut (the films’ often hysterical twin duo) have transformed Berk’s Fyre Skööl into a boat battle where teams of Vikings compete to outscore and outsoak each other while trying to hit over 130 moving targets found throughout the attraction. Located in the middle of the world within the lagoon, guests will be able to see the attraction from multiple different angles.

Viking Training Camp

Junior Vikings will discover all types of dragons as they climb, slide and explore their way through a sprawling interactive adventure camp and kids play area hosted by Fishlegs, Isle of Berk’s resident dragon expert. 

Meet and Greets

Dragons are alive and active in How To Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk with dragon and character meet and greets found throughout the world.

Probably the most anticipated moment will be meeting and taking pictures with Toothless and Hiccup in a tranquil clearing created to honor the bond between dragon and Viking.

“I do think that the Toothless meet and greet is what’s going to knock everybody’s socks off,” Pacitti says. “It’s going to be a guest experience that sets a new standard.”

Dragons and iconic characters can also be spotted throughout the world with highlights including:

Astrid and her Deadly Nadder, Stormfly as well as Ruffnut and Tuffnut can be seen roaming throughout the world interacting with guests.

Gobber and his beloved Hotburple dragon Grump take center stage in the Forge.

Where to Eat and Shop in How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk

As guests will find throughout Universal Epic Universe, the immersive world experience continues through dining. Within How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, eating like a Viking is key for guests to keep up their energy for dragon adventures.

Mead Hall is the beating heart of Berk. This massive hall is a larger-than-life space and the village’s main gathering place. A grand chamber hewn from mountain rock, with a giant grand chandelier hanging overhead, here Vikings can feast on hearty meals and can enjoy unique beers and mead created just for this fast casual restaurant.

Stay tuned for more details on dining and merchandise!

What to Expect at the Opening

As the first time that the world of dragons and Berk are brought out of the films and to life on a large scale, How To Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk will be a visual and interactive spectacle when it opens at Universal Epic Universe. Unveiling this world will be the culmination of years of creation and development for the Universal Creative, Universal Orlando Resort and DreamWorks teams who cannot wait to share everything they have created.

“Being on the entry docks and watching guests come in is probably going to be the thing I most want to experience at the opening,” says Pacitti. “There’s nothing quite like experiencing a guest’s first reaction to something that you’ve just spent several years building.”

Additionally, being able to share this amazing world with dragon fans for the first time will be an unmatched moment.

For this writer, seeing the excitement on my son’s face when he walks into How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk and meets his beloved dragons in person for the first time will absolutely create a memory that will stay with me. (And, I am sure, will also bring some tears.)

So, how about it, are you ready to soar with dragons in 2025? I know I am. 

To learn more about How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk and Universal Epic Universe, click on over here and make sure to sign up for ongoing e-mail updates.

Must be 21 years and older with valid identification to purchase or drink alcoholic beverages.

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