Credit: Warner Bros. (left), Aditya Vyas on Unsplash (right)Scooby-Doo has been solving mysteries for more than five decades, and his popularity has never really faded.
From classic cartoons to endless merchandise, the Mystery Inc. gang has a special kind of staying power. Families across generations can quote their favorite lines, laugh at Shaggy’s appetite, and still get a kick out of the villains who would have “gotten away with it” if not for those meddling kids.
The franchise’s reach grew even stronger with the live-action Scooby-Doo (2002) movie, which became a fan favorite in its own right.
Starring Freddie Prinze Jr., Sarah Michelle Gellar, Matthew Lillard, and Linda Cardellini, the film brought the animated crew into the real world and remains beloved by fans who still revisit it today. Its campy humor and nostalgic charm proved just how universal Scooby-Doo’s appeal is, bridging the gap between the classic cartoon and a new generation.
For Universal Orlando, this makes Scooby-Doo the perfect franchise to bring front and center. The characters have already had small presences in the parks—walk-around meet-and-greets, appearances in parades, and even a Mystery Machine sighting or two. But now, Scooby-Doo is stepping into the spotlight with a new themed experience that ties directly into one of Universal’s most unique offerings.
A Mystery Meets Universal Orlando Resort
The big news is that Universal’s Volcano Bay water park is getting a special nighttime celebration that includes Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Velma, Fred, and Daphne. Villains like the Ghost Clown will also make appearances, bringing some of the classic spooky fun that fans love. The event, called Volcano Bay Nights, will return this fall, running every Friday evening from September 5 through October 31.
Guests will not only get after-dark access to Volcano Bay’s 30+ attractions but will also step into an atmosphere that feels like a Scooby-Doo mystery brought to life. The Mystery Machine will be parked on Waturi Beach, offering photo opportunities, and the gang will be out meeting fans. A live DJ will keep the beach party vibe going while characters and villains mingle around the park.
Food, Fun, and Family Appeal
Universal isn’t stopping at character encounters. Guests will find free snacks like churro bites with chocolate or mango dipping sauce, plus coconut and pineapple popcorn. Specialty food and drink items will also be available at restaurants and snack stands throughout the park.
The combination of a water park at night, live entertainment, and beloved characters makes this event feel like a major expansion for Universal’s family-friendly offerings. Scooby-Doo may be spooky, but it’s never too scary—exactly the kind of playful theme that works well for families looking for something different in Orlando.
Why Scooby-Doo Matters at Universal
While Halloween Horror Nights dominates Universal’s fall lineup with its terrifying haunted houses and mature themes, Volcano Bay Nights with Scooby-Doo fills an important gap. It gives families who aren’t ready for the intensity of Horror Nights an alternative nighttime experience that still feels seasonal and special.
And let’s be honest: Scooby-Doo has a nostalgic pull that crosses age groups. Parents who grew up with the cartoons get just as excited as their kids to see these characters in person. It’s a move that strengthens Universal’s ability to attract a wide audience, not just thrill-seekers.
A Busy Fall Season Ahead
With Epic Universe boosting Universal’s attendance and Halloween Horror Nights continuing to grow with IPs like Five Nights at Freddy’s and Friday the 13th, adding Scooby-Doo into the mix only makes the resort more appealing. This fall is shaping up to be one of Universal’s busiest and most diverse entertainment seasons yet.
Scooby-Doo isn’t just solving mysteries this time—he’s helping Universal solve a big piece of the puzzle when it comes to offering something for everyone. From water park slides at night to character meet-and-greets, this new attraction feels like a major move for the Orlando resort.