Credit: Republica, PixabayUniversal has quietly closed several operating locations as rumors begin to surface of possible expansions. Here’s what we know. This Universal destination has a lot going on regarding new rides and locations at this Universal Park. Universal Creative is working hard to ensure more Universal Pictures IPs are entering the natural world through attractions and areas for every guest to enjoy.
Universal Studios Hollywood Silently Closes Down Two Locations Without Warning
Over in California, Universal Studios Hollywood closed down several locations without warning recently, sparking debate amongst its guests on what this could mean. Chick Chick Chicken opened its doors in 2022 inside CityWalk. Chick Chick Chicken has replaced Ludo Bird, a previous chicken restaurant that closed in the summer of 2020. Following Ludo Bird’s closure, a temporary “Sweets & Treats” location for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter operated seasonally in the same spot.
Chick Chick Chicken features a chicken-based menu that includes chicken sandwiches and chicken tenders. Guests can select from “Hot N’ Spicy,” Asian, and classic styles for their meals. Additionally, the restaurant offers Jr. Chicken Sliders as a kid-friendly option. The other closed location is also in CityWalk, Francesca’s.
Chick Chick Chicken is now closed as well as Francesca’s. @insideuniversal @cristalandcris new expansion? New vendor? New O&O? #universalcitywalk pic.twitter.com/Yonxel4IWg
— Entertainment Gurus (@entgurus365) July 8, 2024
Chick Chick Chicken is now closed as well as Francesca’s. @insideuniversal @cristalandcris new expansion? New vendor? New O&O? #universalcitywalk
Initially reported by Inside Universal in May, Francesca’s at Universal CityWalk Hollywood was set to close. Although the store has not provided an official closing date, it was expected to shut its doors by the end of the month.
Further details were not disclosed until recently, after @entgurus365 reported on the closure, as seen above. Francesca’s, a women’s clothing chain known for its casual and dressy styles, bags, shoes, jewelry, and gifts, is set to close its location at Universal CityWalk Hollywood.
Rumors of Expansions Coming to Citywalk? Everything New Happening at Studios in Hollywood
No official announcement has been made, but guests are asking around the social media world to see if anyone knows why these locations are closing down without much warning. Some say this could mean more is coming to the CityWalk location in Hollywood, but this is just speculation. This is a site that we will be following closely to try and examine what this could mean.
Over at the park, some exciting things are happening right now that will bring new life to Universal Studios Hollywood. Multiple new outlets, including Forbes and NBC Universal Media, have been reporting on the construction at the park for the latest Fast & Furious drifting roller coaster set for 2026.
Universal Studios Hollywood is set to debut Fast and Furious: Hollywood Drift, its first-ever high-speed outdoor coaster inspired by the film franchise that has grossed over $7 billion at the box office.
The marquee ride will replace the Animal Actors and Special Effects Show on the Upper Lot. Guests will board the groundbreaking ride in a large, red brick, garage-style structure. The arrival of Fast and Furious: Hollywood Drift will coincide with the 25th anniversary of the first film in the series. SUPER NINTENDO WORLD celebrated its first anniversary earlier this year as well.
According to a Q1 earnings report from parent company Comcast, the Mushroom Kingdom at Universal Studios Hollywood continues to be a major draw, driving significant business for Universal’s theme parks. The park’s smaller SUPER NINTENDO WORLD area in the Lower Lot between the Jurassic World area and Transformers:
The Ride has proven highly popular. Due to the limited space in the Lower Lot, Universal demolished and relocated soundstages to accommodate the construction of the new land.
This video game land will also be coming to life in Orlando, Florida, very soon. On May 2, 2024, the official Nintendo and Universal channels announced that SUPER NINTENDO WORLD at Universal Epic Universe will open in 2025. The new area will feature both the Donkey Kong Country area and Super Mario Land.
Halloween Horror Nights also returns to Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort. It will run from September 5 through November 3. Houses like A Quiet Place and Ghostbusters will be arriving, along with some original scary stories. Tickets are now on sale and can be found on the official website or by clicking here.