Wizarding World of Harry Potter projects are getting pretty exciting with signage going up on Kingscross Station and London facades finishing up their final details. But that’s certainly not all that’s new at the Universal Orlando Resort. Starbucks has opened inside Islands of Adventure, construction is going fast and furious at Citywalk, plus projects and photos galore.
Universal Studios
Diagon Alley Update
With every passing day, more details are being added to Diagon Alley. The entire London area continues to get elegant enhancements as we head towards the Summer 2014 opening.
Mardi Gras
Starting February 8th and continuing on through the end of May, Universal Orlando will be holding their annual Mardi Gras celebration, where after the sun goes down Universal Orlando is turned into a giant party with a parade, gumbo and top musical acts. Universal has the Mardi Gras village set up now in the New York area.
Refurbishments
The beginning of the year is always a great time for refurbishments. Twister has currently gone into rehab, as has the facade from “Annie.”
Islands of Adventure
Starbucks Now Open
The old Funnel Cake location that closed a few months ago, has now reopened as a beautiful Starbucks. This location is modern chic, and pays homage to the Port of Entry theme outside.
Lost Continent Games Closed and Hogwarts Express Station
The games at Lost Continent have now closed as they get ready to rework the entrance to Hogsmeade and complete the construction of the Hogwarts Express Station.
Ripsaw Falls
Dudley Do Right’s Ripsaw Falls re-opened this past week with fresh paint and cleaned up show scenes.
Popeye’s Closed for Refurbishment
After Dudley’s reopened, Popeye’s Bilge-rat Barges closed down for its annual refurbishment.
CityWalk
Antojitos
Antojitos has soft opened for dinner as Universal puts the new staff through their paces. On February 5th, Universal will be holding a preview for the restaurant and then it will be officially opened to the public.
Starbucks and Coldstone Creamery
The Starbucks and Coldstone Creamery are progressing at the frantic pace that we have grown accustom to.
Team Member Parking Garage
Backstage at Universal Orlando the new Team Member Parking Garage has gone vertical at an incredible pace. This will help alleviate some of the massive parking issues Team Members have been having.
That wraps up this week’s update. Now please click play below to enjoy an extra special Unofficial Universal Orlando Podcast episode with special guest Mike Ailleo.