Credit: Universal Orlando ResortUniversal Destinations & Experiences continues to expand its entertainment footprint around the globe, but changes are also unfolding at its very first Florida resort.
May 22 marked the grand debut of Universal Epic Universe, the third theme park gate to open in the Sunshine State. The new addition joins Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure, offering imaginative lands such as SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk, and Celestial Park. Rumors suggest the next wave of Epic Universe may bring additional adventures, possibly including a Legend of Zelda-inspired area.
Even with such a major arrival, guests continue to explore the resort’s original parks for favorites like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Jurassic World, and The Simpsons. Thrill fans still line up for VelociCoaster and Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, two attractions that keep adrenaline running high.
At Universal Studios Florida, an often-used shortcut between the Diagon Alley expansion of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and the Springfield area has temporarily closed for refurbishment. The walkway bridge has been stripped to its frame for the project. Visitors are now guided along an alternate path, traveling past the Men in Black: Alien Attack attraction to reach The Simpsons-themed land.
As WDWNT recently reported, work is still underway on the walkway as the park’s big Halloween event–Halloween Horror Nights–nears its opening night. Work on the bridge is progressing steadily. Much of the structure now features freshly installed floorboards, though the team is still fitting and cutting the planks on the Wizarding World side. This side remains without new railings for the moment, while the opposite end appears to have both flooring and railings complete.
In addition, scaffolding surrounds the bridge’s center section, where flooring has been replaced but new railings have yet to appear. Several columns, once located in the middle, have not been reinstalled. The lagoon’s water level has been lowered for the work.
Universal’s Domestic and Global Growth
Universal’s expansion plans are hardly limited to Florida. Domestically, projects include Universal Horror Unleashed in Las Vegas, Nevada, and Chicago, Illinois, along with the upcoming Universal Kids Resort in Frisco, Texas.
Internationally, NBCUniversal is in the early stages of creating Universal Great Britain (working title) in Bedfordshire, which is expected to debut within the next decade. The park is planned to showcase beloved stories such as The Lord of the Rings, James Bond, Back to the Future, and Paddington.
How do you feel about all the turbo-charged changes coming to the Universal theme park brand? Let Inside the Magic know in the comments down below!