We have a huge update for you this week from Universal Orlando Resort. Big crowds at Rock the Universe, a new attraction rumor for Islands of Adventure, and updates all around the Universal Resort in today’s update.
The Lorax attraction on its way to Islands of Adventure for 2015
Rumors are swirling that a Lorax attraction is coming to Islands of Adventure in 2015. While there has been an expansion plot in Seuss Landing since the park opened for an additional attraction in Seuss Landing, over the years various concepts have been pitched for this piece of land, a Mount Crumpet Grinch ride, A Horton Hears a Who ride, and more, but it seems that Universal Creative has finally settled on a concept that is sure to please and delight. We will have more as this story develops.
Jurassic Park Expansion Moving Forward
Further back in the park, Jurassic Park is moving forward with it’s expansion. Soon the games from the Lost Continent will close, and those Team Members will be relocated to their new home in Jurassic Park. Like what we saw with the expansion of Springfield USA, the games is just the first phase in construction coming to the center Island at this park. While the Triceratops encounter is not going to to return, there are plans to add another attraction to this area, and over the past year there have been numerous concepts pitched for the expansion of Jurassic Park, there is one moving forward and in the advance planning stages.
Hogsmede Station for Hogwarts Express
As we look at expansions currently underway, the Hogsmede Station for the Hogwarts Express continues its rapid construction and soon the entry way area at the Wizarding World will be reworked as the games are closed and moved to Jurassic Park.
New Starbucks at Port of Entry
Over at Port of Entry the Arctic Freeze location has been gutted, and will soon begin it’s transformation into Island’s first Starbucks. We are excited to compare this new in-park Starbucks against the two Starbucks that just opened over at the Magic Kingdom and Epcot.
Rock the Universe packs Universal Orlando
Since launching Rock the Universe, it has grown every year, and has now grown in the biggest Christian Music Festival in Florida. What was once the slow and empty post Labor Day weekend, is now a jammed pack peak weekend, with crowds usually reserved for summer. It seems this niche event, has really hit its stride and has found its market.
Diagon Alley Update
Over at Universal Studios, Diagon Alley continues to progress as all the facades are being closed up and now windows are being added at different levels. This land is going to feel huge once you are inside.
Finnegans Facade Refurbishment
Finnegans restaurant facade is also getting a refurbishment continuing the work happening in the New York area of the park. We love seeing refurbishments like this happening and it’s really helping to keep the park in tip top shape.
Halloween Horror Nights Update
On September 20th, 2014 Universal Orlando will unveil the 23rd incarnation of Halloween Horror Nights, and as the event progresses, we will have more news to share later this week after our preview of Halloween Horror Nights.
Come join MiceChat next month at Universal Studios Orlando on October 17th to visit Harry Potter and stay for Halloween Horror Nights that evening. We plan on a full night of fun and scares complete with a dinner beforehand, and more.
If you plan to join us for Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights you will need to purchase a ticket for Thursday, October 17th for $38.99 that includes the Additional HHN Express Pass option for $49.99 for a total cost of $88.98. Follow the thread below for updated information and to get in on the dining arrangements made for the group if you would like to join us.
This looks like it is going to be an amazingly original year for Universal Orlando HHN. With houses like Cabin in the Woods, Walking Dead, Legendary Truth, Resident Evil, Evil Dead and shows like Bill and Ted’s EXCELLENT Halloween Adventure and The Rocky Horror Picture Show Tribute, we are really in for a treat!
Join The List:
Add your name to our Halloween events list and we’ll email you with all the gory details: MiceChat Nights of Horror Email List – Click HERE
CityWalk Update
Starbucks Moving Downstairs
Over in CityWalk construction continues at the former Pastamore quick service location as they prepare the site to move Starbucks downstairs.
Latin Quarter Changing
Latin Quarter is changing and rumors have it, that it will focus it’s theme from the broad “Latin” theme to focus in and be a Mexican restaurant. We will share more news as it comes in.
Cabana Bay Beach Resort Update
The Cabana Bay Beach Resort is moving forward as color is being added to the exterior of the lobby and guest facilities. The non-suite rooms will not open with the resort when guests start staying there in March, 2014. The Resort is coming together, and we can’t wait to explore this beautiful new property.
That wraps up this week’s update. For more Universal news from Orlando, Hollywood, Singapore, and Japan listen to Lee, Tracey and Darren as they share with you everything Universal Studios!