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Universal Orlando Resort

VIDEO: TODAY Cafe Grand Opening!

16 May 2019 by Chris Ryan Leave a Comment

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The TODAY Show-inspired ‘Today Cafe’ is now open at Universal Orlando Resort! Join us as we check out some of the festivities including behind the scenes of filming the TODAY Show.

This vlog was filmed on May 16th, 2019, at the Universal Studios Orlando Resort, for the opening of the TODAY Cafe. Check it out below!

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Filed Under: Universal Orlando Resort, Videos

12 Parks 1 Day?! YES!

11 January 2019 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

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As many of you know, Zannaland began almost 10 years ago, as a place for me to share my own stories, tips, reviews, and experiences at Walt Disney World. Those experiences of course included my children, who at the time were 10, 9, and almost 1 year old. They have essentially grown up with Zannaland and all of the amazing adventures we’ve been lucky enough to enjoy. When I started this blog, I’d only ever been to Walt Disney World (and SeaWorld and Busch Gardens in middle school!). I’d never even traveled further west than Chicago for 2 days when I was a travel agent (I did go to Paris and Madrid in high school too, but that was pretty much the extent of my travel). Now, we’ve been to Disneyland and other California destinations about 10 times. We’ve visited 11 different National Parks across the country, and all the area theme parks. And all of our adventures are only just beginning. This travel isn’t all because of Zannaland of course, but it’s been a constant in the background of my childrens’ lives, and we’ve definitely gotten to do some amazing things because of it. Which brings me to the purpose of this post.
12 Parks 1 Day
My children are now 20, 18, and 10, and yes, two of them aren’t even children anymore. Growing up in the past 10 years, they’ve seen social media take over and become a part of daily life, and how video has replaced blogging in many senses (is anyone even reading this? 😛 ), and how anyone can open up their lives and share it with the world. They’ve now taken the next step and started their own vlog, with a very auspicious first video. After we completed a 6 Parks One Day cross-country challenge last year (which you can see on my Instagram Story Highlights), they took it to the next level and did 12 Parks in One Day here in the central Florida area. Needless to say, I’m incredibly proud of their efforts and love that the video shows their fun (and funny) personalities and a little bit of what it’s like to have grown up in the Orlando area with access to all the fun theme-park opportunities around us. Obviously, this is not a “way to see the parks” video, but just a fun “let’s see if we can do it” video haha. Riding one attraction in 12 parks in 1 day is not the best way to experience Orlando, but it does make for a fun vlog!

12 Parks 1 Day Video!

This will not be the last of their vlogs, just the beginning! I’d love for you to watch and leave a comment or a thumbs up for them. Be sure to subscribe and click the bell to get notifications of their next adventure! What would you like to see them cover in a future video? Let me know what you think in the comments below! Thanks for reading, and thanks for watching!!
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Filed Under: Busch Gardens, Disney Parks, Resorts, & Entertainment, Disney Planning, Florida Theme Parks & Attractions, LEGOLAND Florida, Sea World Orlando, Top Stories, Travel, Travel, Theme Parks, and Resorts, Universal Orlando Resort, Walt Disney World Tagged With: 12 parks 1 day, 12 parks one day, busch gardens, Disney parks, Disney's Hollywood Studios, LEGOLAND Florida, Magic Kingdom, SeaWorld Orlando, twelve parks one day, Universal Islands of Adventure, universal orlando resort, Universal Studios

Details From Universal Orlando’s Skull Island: Reign of Kong Attraction

25 February 2016 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

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Skull Island Reign of Kong Great Wall Night time shot IOA
Skull Island Reign of Kong Great Wall Night time shot IOA image ©Universal

Locals have been watching the construction with great anticipation, and now Universal Orlando Resort has treated us to a photo and some more info about the upcoming King Kong attraction at Universal’s Islands of Adventure. While I’m not *personally* a fan of giant things screaming in my face, I know many people are, and are excited about this upcoming attraction. (What can I say, I prefer my giant creatures to be magical dragons.)

I do love a good immersive attraction, however, and the Indiana Jones and the Temple of the Forbidden Eye attraction in Disneyland is one of my all-time favorites. I also am a mega-fan of the Wizarding World attractions in both Universal theme parks, so I’m willing to give this a try when the gates open this summer. Until then, here’s the official release from Universal with the details they are willing to share today:

Soon, you will be transported to an island shrouded in mystery and legend.  It is a lost world where adventure – and the unimaginable – will challenge you in unforgettable ways.

When it opens this summer at Universal Orlando Resort’s Islands of Adventure, Skull Island: Reign of Kong will bring the next generation of the King Kong legend to life.  You will be thrust into an exotic world filled with the menacing, the intense – and the wildly entertaining.  A powerful storyline, a stunning 3D experience, innovative technology – and the unexpected – will pull you into one of Universal Orlando’s most massive adventures yet.  This is a multi-dimensional experience filled with surprise – all wrapped into what will be one of the longest Universal ride experiences ever created.

More first-ever details will be released soon.  But today, Universal Orlando unveils details about the incredible journey guests will experience.

The adventure begins as you set out to explore an island rife with prehistoric creatures of unknown origin –and the legend of a beast still undiscovered.  You find yourself at a campsite of the 8th Wonder Expedition Company, the research team leading your adventure.

Once beyond camp, the menacing terrain shows signs of a native presence; beating drums draw you toward an ancient temple. Moving deeper into the ruins reveals a lost shrine – and proof you are not alone. You ignore warnings to turn back.    

You board a specially designed expedition vehicle that will take you deeper into the island.  Mysterious sounds pierce the air and you hear chanting.  And then – you confront an enormous temple wall, complete with carvings and images that seem to pay homage to something you cannot quite comprehend.  The temple’s massive wooden doors slowly open, revealing a labyrinth of caves.

Inside the caves, you meet your expedition leader – and suddenly find yourself in the midst of a raging struggle between creatures of incomprehensible size and ferocity.  Then, as those creatures turn on you, there is an even more enormous, earth-pounding presence – bigger, closer and more overwhelming than you can possibly imagine.  It is Kong.  But is he friend or foe?

More details about “Skull Island: Reign of Kong” will be revealed soon. To stay up-to-date on all the latest news, visit universalorlando.com/ReignofKong.

How does it sound? Mysterious? Menacing? Will you be willing to brave Skull Island this summer? What are you most looking forward to if so? I’ll update more news here as it’s released. Until then, let’s all work on our Fay Wray screams, okay?

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Filed Under: Orlando Area Attractions, Top Stories, Travel, Theme Parks, and Resorts, Universal Orlando Resort Tagged With: islands of adventure, Reign of Kong, Skull Island, Skull Island: Reign of Kong, Universal Islands of Adventure, Universal Orlando, universal orlando resort, Universal press release, UOR

Details of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley Expansion

23 January 2014 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

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Universal Orlando Resort held a live webcast this morning, complete with 3 stars of the Harry Potter films, to share details, concept art and a peek into the newest section of Universal Studios Florida:  Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley. Being a huge Harry Potter fan, I am beyond excited to experience this new area first hand, and after seeing today’s webcast, I do not think I will be disappointed.

Seeing inside the Hogwarts Express and hearing that it will pass by modern day London, with a view of the Knight Bus before passing through the brick wall to Diagon Alley was a treat. The list of shops and places to eat inside Diagon Alley is perfect and they even brought Knockturn Alley over to stay true to the films. I’m just thrilled about all of these details and cannot wait for summer 2014 to travel to Diagon Alley in person! It was also fun to have my submitted question asked and answered on the webcast. I asked how they decided which iconic elements of Diagon Alley to recreate in the park and they said with so many amazing iconic themes to work with, they listened to fans and what they wanted and made sure to stay true to the films – and it definitely looks like they did. Here is the full webcast, recorded live by my friend and YouTuber The Big Fat Panda: (my question is at around the 20:00 mark, but Mark messed up and said iconographic my mistake 😉 )

Here are all the official Universal Orlando Resort details from the update and the concept art revealed today: 

 “Never before has a theme park created a guest experience like this: you climb aboard the Hogwarts Express in Hogsmeade and moments later arrive at King’s Cross Station – where the wonders of London and Diagon Alley unfold before you.  And it is all real.

 

Diagon Alley concept art
An overview of the Diagon Alley section All concept art photos ©Universal

With this summer’s opening of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley, Universal Orlando Resort and Warner Bros. Entertainment will bring even more of Harry Potter’s adventures to life inside a new, magnificently themed area that includes a revolutionary attraction experience, as well as all-new themed shops and dining.

The two companies today revealed first-ever details about the new area and the one-of-a-kind adventures it will offer the whole family.  The spectacularly themed environment will double the size of the sweeping area already dedicated to Harry Potter’s adventures at Universal Orlando, expanding it across both Universal theme parks.

And – just like in the books and films – guests will be able to travel between the two areas aboard the iconic Hogwarts Express.

Universal Orlando launched a global phenomenon when it opened The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade at its Islands of Adventure theme park in 2010.  That area includes the iconic Hogwarts castle – which houses the groundbreaking Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey attraction – and the village of Hogsmeade.  The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley will be located within Universal Orlando’s second theme park, Universal Studios, and will create new experiences based on the signature areas of London, Diagon Alley and Knockturn Alley.

Universal’s creative team has been working closely with Stuart Craig and the production team from the Harry Potter films to make the new area as authentic and spectacular as possible – just as it did with The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade.

The vision for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley is unprecedented, with Universal Orlando creating the world’s first centrally themed, multi-park experience.

After arriving at King’s Cross Station aboard the Hogwarts Express, guests will pass through London and the iconic brick wall archway from the films into Diagon Alley – a bustling, wizarding hub within a Muggle city.  There will be shops, dining experiences, and a new ride called Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts – a multi-sensory, multi-dimensional journey that will take theme park attractions to a new level.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley will give visitors the exciting opportunity to: 

  • Board the Hogwarts Express and journey between London’s King’s Cross Station (located in Universal Studios Florida) and Hogsmeade Station (located in Universal’s Islands of Adventure). The journey will be filled with views of London and the British countryside – as well as a few surprises. Park-to-park admission is required.

Hogsmeade Station
Hogsmeade Station

 

King's Cross Station
King’s Cross Station

 

London Embankment Diagon Alley
Passing by modern day London and the Knightbus

  • Experience a groundbreaking new, multi-dimensional thrill ride, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts,which will place riders in the middle of an incredible adventure as they navigate their way through the perils of the Gringotts vaults

Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts at the end of Diagon Alley

Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts

  • Witness the magical experience of a wand choosing a wizard at Ollivanders: Makers of Fine Wands since 382 BC, one of the wizarding world’s premier wand shops 

Ollivanders
Ollivanders

  • Discover the darker side of magic in Knockturn Alley, the darkest of dark places that features Borgin and Burkes – a shop specializing in the Dark Arts that will offer a wide variety of Dark objects, such as Death Eater masks, skulls, and other sinister items
  • Explore some of Diagon Alley’s famous shops, including:
  • Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes, a vibrant shop featuring novelty items, magical jokes, and toys inspired by the books and films that will amaze the mischievous child in everyone
  • Madam Malkin’s Robes for All Occasions, where guests will find a variety of wizardwear from Hogwarts school uniform ties, scarves and jumpers, to authentic wizard’s robes and character costumes
  • Magical Menagerie, which features a collection of plush animals, such as owls and Hippogriffs
  • Wiseacre’s Wizarding Equipment, where guests can grab wizarding essentials such as telescopes, binoculars, armillary spheres, compasses, magnifying glasses and hourglasses
  • Quality Quidditch Supplies, offering a wide assortment of apparel and equipment including Quidditch sweaters, brooms, Golden Snitches, Bludgers, Bludger bats, Quaffles and more
  • Scribbulus, featuring authentic writing implements and products such as feather quills, ink and inkwells, bookmarks, journals, parchment paper, seals, stationery sets and postcards

Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes
Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes

Wiseacre's Wizarding Equipment
Wiseacre’s Wizarding Equipment

Florean Fortescue's Ice-Cream Parlour
Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour

 

  • Enjoy traditional British fare that includes favorite dishes such as fish and chips, bangers and mash and more at the Leaky Cauldron 
  • Visit Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour for frozen treats in a variety of tantalizing and unique flavors such as strawberry-and-peanut-butter ice-cream and many others
  • And more!

More details about the unique experiences that can be found in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley will be released over time.  For more information about the area, visit www.universalorlando.com/harrypotter. 

Universal Orlando Resort is part of NBCUniversal, a Comcast company. Follow Universal Orlando Resort on  Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

What do you think? What are you most looking forward to at Diagon Alley? I think it’s wandering the shops for me, dining at the Leaky Cauldron, and of course, escaping from Gringotts! (okay, so everything!)

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Filed Under: Central Florida Family Entertainment, Florida Theme Parks & Attractions, Orlando Area Attractions, Top Stories, Universal Orlando Resort Tagged With: Diagon Alley, harry potter, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, Universal Islands of Adventure, Universal Orlando Diagon Alley, universal orlando resort, Universal Studios, universal studios florida, UOR, wizarding world, Wizarding World of Harry Potter

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley – Coming Soon!

8 May 2013 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

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As a fan of all things Harry Potter, and after finally getting to experience The Wizarding World of Harry Potter myself a few months back, I am thrilled at this expansion announcement! Read the official press release below for more information – and I solemnly swear that I am up to no good!

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley Rendering

Building on the global phenomenon that is The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Universal Orlando Resort and Warner Bros. Entertainment today announced an expansion of historic proportion with the entirely new themed environment, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley.

Scheduled to open in 2014, the world’s first centrally themed, multi-park experience expands The Wizarding World of Harry Potter across both Universal Orlando theme parks and allows Universal’s creative team to bring an unparalleled vision to this unique project.  The new area will bring to life some of the experiences and places found in and around London in the Harry Potter books and films, offering brand-new adventures for fans and theme park guests from around the world.

Diagon Alley and ‘London’ will be located within the Universal Studios Florida theme park, which is adjacent to Universal’s Islands of Adventure theme park, where guests now experience Hogwarts and Hogsmeade.  The new area within Universal Studios will be just as expansive, immersive and authentic as the existing themed environment.

And – just like in the books and films – guests will be able to travel between ‘London’ and Hogsmeade aboard the Hogwarts Express.

Work on the new area is already underway.  When complete, it will feature shops, a restaurant and an innovative, marquee attraction based on Gringotts bank – all directly inspired by the fiction and films.

More details on The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley will be released over time.

To bring Diagon Alley and ‘London’ to life, Universal’s creative team is working closely with Warner Bros. and the production design team from the Harry Potter films – just as it did for Hogwarts and Hogsmeade.

“I’m so pleased that The Wizarding World of Harry Potter has proved so popular to date, and I’m sure that the attention to detail in creating the new Diagon Alley area will make this an even better experience,” said J.K. Rowling.

“We are continuing the journey and adding an entirely new level of adventure,” said Tom Williams, Chairman of Universal Parks & Resorts.  “And we are bringing the same drive, commitment, enthusiasm and innovation to this project as we did to the first.”

“We are thrilled to offer the legions of fans the opportunity to embark on this new journey and experience Diagon Alley as it was brought to life in the books and films,” said Brad Globe, president, Warner Bros. Consumer Products.

“Our vision is to create two amazing theme park experiences that combine into one, complete, magical journey,” said Alice Norsworthy, executive vice president, marketing and sales for Universal Orlando Resort.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade opened at Universal’s Islands of Adventure in June 2010 as a fully immersive Harry Potter themed environment – bringing to life the bestselling books by J.K. Rowling and the blockbuster feature films from Warner Bros.  Since that time, it has become a global phenomenon, entertaining millions of people from around the world.

Visitors to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter are swept into the adventures of Harry Potter.  They can tour Hogwarts castle, shop in Hogsmeade and dine at the Three Broomsticks.  They can soar above Hogwarts with Harry, be chosen by a wand at Ollivanders, sample Butterbeer and much more.

 

What are your thoughts? Excited?

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Filed Under: Florida Theme Parks & Attractions, Top Stories, Universal Orlando Resort Tagged With: adventure theme park, Diagon Alley, florida theme park, harry potter diagon alley, Harry Potter world, hogwarts express, islands of adventure, Orlando theme parks, universal orlando resort, universal orlando theme parks, universal studios florida, wizarding world, Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Universal Studios Orlando Celebrates Christmas With Music, Parades and The Grinch!

11 December 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

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Universal Orlando ResortUniversal Studios once again brings favorites back for the Christmas season – the Grinch, the Macy’s Holiday Parade and Mannheim Steamroller round out their holiday offerings, all included in a regular ticket for Universal Studios Florida (Macy’s parade and Mannheim Steamroller) or Islands of Adventure (Grinchmas).

The Grinchmas show is always a family favorite, and fits right in to the Suess Landing area of Islands of Adventure. Now through January 1, Guests can watch the heartwarming live show, “Grinchmas Wholiday Spectacular,” featuring The Grinch and the Whos from Who-ville accompanied by an original musical score by Mannheim Steamroller. Guests can also meet The Grinch and the Whos and on select dates, purchase and enjoy a special breakfast with the characters.

 

Universal Orlando Resort Grinchmas
Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular

The Macy’s Holiday Parade over at Universal Studios Florida features classic balloons, straight from the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, including several stationed throughout the park for photo opportunities. Santa Claus ends the parade with a colorful tree lighting.

Universal Orlando Resort
New this year – “Trykaloons”

 

Universal Orlando Resort
Santa Claus appears to light the tree

 

Also in Universal Studios Florida are select performances by Mannheim Steamroller, featuring composer Chip Davis. Mannheim Steamroller performs their holiday classics along with selections from the Grinchmas show, composed by Davis. Performance nights are Dec. 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22 and 23.

 

Universal Orlando Resort Mannheim Steamroller
Mannheim Steamroller performs with singers from the Grinchmas show

All the holiday offerings are included for guests as part of any holiday pass, two-park or multi-day admission to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure.

 

Universal Orlando Resort
Up close with the Grinch – Yikes!

 

For more information on the Holidays at Universal Orlando, vacation packages and ticket offers, visit UniversalOrlando.com/holidays.

 

Disclosure: my family was provided a complimentary viewing of the events mentioned above. All opinions are my own.

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Filed Under: Florida Theme Parks & Attractions, Theme Park Holiday Events, Top Stories, Universal Orlando Resort Tagged With: chip davis, christmas season, Grinch, Grinchmas, holiday classics, holiday offerings, holiday parade, islands of adventure, macy s thanksgiving day parade, mannheim steamroller, parades, santa claus, suess landing, thanksgiving day parade, universal orlando resort, Universal Studios, universal studios florida, universal studios orlando, UOR

New 50’s-Themed Family Suite and Value Hotel Announced at Universal Orlando

9 July 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

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Check out the interesting news out of Universal Orlando Resort this morning – an all-new uniquely-themed value resort will be built on-site, opening in 2014. The resort will be half family-suites, half traditional rooms, offering both value and moderate-priced experiences. I do love mid-century design so I’m excited to see how this unfolds before us! Here’s the official news and some artist renderings below:

 

ORLANDO, Fla. (July 9, 2012) – Universal Parks & Resorts and Loews Hotels & Resorts will build a new hotel development at Universal Orlando that will add high-quality, high-value options for families wanting an affordable on-site experience.

Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort will offer two distinct experiences within the development’s multiple buildings: 900 family suites, capable of sleeping six, that include kitchen areas and 900 standard guest rooms – offering both moderate- and value-priced accommodations. It will be operated by Loews Hotels & Resorts and is scheduled to open in 2014.

Cabana Bay Beach Resort Exterior
Cabana Bay Beach Resort Exterior – scheduled to open in 2014

The hotel will be themed differently than anything else currently available at Universal Orlando. It will evoke the driving vacations so many Americans grew up enjoying with their families – spending time at sweeping motor courts just off the highway, where families relaxed and played after a long day’s drive. The new hotel’s hip, vintage look will be accented with bold design, dramatic, clean lines, bright, period colors and touches of neon. Inside areas including the lobby, dining areas and large, comfortable rooms will follow suit. The hotel will have two themed pool areas.

“Our new hotel will give guests an affordable, incredibly themed on-site hotel experience unlike anything else at our resort,” said Tom Williams, chairman and chief executive officer, Universal Parks & Resorts. “Our new family suites and family-value pricing will give our guests on-site options they’ve never had before.”

The hotel will be built on a 37-acre site within Universal Orlando Resort and adjacent to Universal’s Islands of Adventure – just off Hollywood Way and Turkey Lake Road. Site work will begin soon. Pricing information, opening timeframes and room on-sale dates will be released over time.

Cabana Bay Beach Resort Suite
Artist rendering of the new Cabana Bay Beach Resort Suite

The new hotel will allow families to choose between value pricing or the higher level of benefits and service that come with staying at other on-site Universal Orlando hotels – Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, the Hard Rock Hotel and Loews Royal Pacific Resort. It will provide early park admission, proximity to Universal’s Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios and resort-wide charging privileges – but will not offer complimentary Universal Express Unlimited Access.

“The Cabana Bay Beach Resort furthers our goal of operating special and distinct properties in important markets,” said Paul Whetsell, Loews Hotels & Resorts president and CEO. “This is another important step in our plan to expand the Loews system in major markets across the United States.”

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Filed Under: Disney Movie News & Reviews, Florida Theme Parks & Attractions, Universal Orlando Resort Tagged With: 2014, Cabana Bay, Cabana Bay Beach Resort, islands of adventure, loews, new hotel, Orlando area attractions, Orlando hotels, Universal Orlando, universal orlando resort, universal studios florida

Miranda Cosgrove Celebrates Despicable Me Minion Mayhem At Universal Orlando Resort

3 July 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

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Despicable Me Minion Mayhem Grand OpeningPublicity
Celebrity guests Miranda Cosgrove, Dana Gaier and Elsie Fisher – the voices of Gru’s daughters Margo, Edith and Agnes, joined dozens of “minionized” children to celebrate the grand opening of Universal Orlando Resort’s newest attraction, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, on July 2, 2012.
© 2012 Universal Orlando Resort. All rights reserved.

Yesterday saw the grand opening and “yellow carpet” premiere of Universal Orlando Resort‘s newest attraction – Despicable Me Minion Mayhem at Universal Studios Florida. Stars from the film were on-hand to celebrate the ride and experience the fun for themselves. I can’t wait to get over there myself and check it out, during this “Year To Be Here” –  but in the meantime, here’s all the official news and photos from Universal Orlando Resort:

Based on the blockbuster Universal Pictures and Illumination Entertainment film Despicable Me, the ride was created by Universal Orlando in partnership with Chris Meledandri, founder and CEO of Illumination, and his filmmaking colleagues. The ride places guests in the midst of an original adventure that combines a new storyline, new animation, the latest 3-D technology – and the heart, outrageous humor and memorable characters of the film.

There is something for every guest and every family: a heartwarming family story, hysterical minions and a disco-inspired dance party.

Guests will meet their favorite characters from the film – all voiced by the original cast: Gru (Steve Carell), the world’s greatest super-villain, and his daughters Margo (Miranda Cosgrove), Edith (Dana Gaier) and Agnes (Elsie Fisher). They will enter the ride through the towering façade of Gru’s house, pick up 3-D “minion goggles” in his living room and be scanned for “human germs” in the Minionization Prep Room.

Gru is working on something “really big” and recruits guests for the job, transforms them into minions and
sends them off for minion training. From there, guests go on a wild ride where they evade water sprayers,
giant flyswatters, anti-gravity rooms and more.

Despicable Me Minion Mayhem Grand OpeningPublicity
Celebrity guests Miranda Cosgrove, Dana Gaier and Elsie Fisher see the ride first hand. © 2012 Universal Orlando Resort. All rights reserved.

“We worked to blend the spirit and heart of the film with a great new adventure for our guests and their families,” said Mark Woodbury, president of Universal Creative. “Where else can your family laugh, dance, celebrate and become a minion all at the same time?”

“We’re so excited to introduce an entirely new experience that truly captures all the heart, humor and emotion audiences have come to love about Despicable Me,” said Meledandri. “Fans of the film can now have fun and interact with their favorite Despicable Me characters in a way they haven’t been able to before.”

Despicable Me Minion Mayhem Grand OpeningPublicity
Miranda Cosgrove and other stars enjoy the mayhem! © 2012 Universal Orlando Resort. All rights reserved.

The attraction’s grand opening caps Universal Orlando’s “Year to be Here” – during which Universal debuted more new entertainment experiences across its entire destination than any other year in its history. Despicable Me Minion Mayhem follows the debut of a newly-enhanced Blue Man Group Show at Universal CityWalk, the high-tech re-launch of The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man at Universal’s Islands of Adventure and the spring openings of Universal’s Superstar Parade and Universal’s Cinematic Spectacular – 100 Years of Movie Memories at Universal Studios Florida.

For more information about Universal Orlando Resort, visit www.universalorlando.com.

Despicable Me Minion Mayhem Grand OpeningPublicity
Despicable Me Minion Mayhem is officially open! © 2012 Universal Orlando Resort. All rights reserved.

 

Check out a fun video from InsideTheMagic, showcasing the ride queue, post-queue and merchandise shop:

 

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Filed Under: Disney Movie News & Reviews, Florida Theme Parks & Attractions, Universal Orlando Resort Tagged With: celebrity guests, Descpicable Me Minion Mayhem, Despicable Me, grand opening, Minion Mayhem ride, Minions, miranda cosgrove, new attraction, Orlando, Orlando area attractions, steve carell, universal orlando resort, universal studios florida, Year to Be Here, yellow carpet

VIDEO: Universal Orlando’s Cinematic Spectacular-100 Years of Movie Memories

10 May 2012 by Suzannah Otis 1 Comment

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Universal's Cinematic Spectacular - 100 years of Movie Memories
Universal’s Cinematic Spectacular – 100 years of Movie Magic Image ©Universal

Tuesday night saw the official premiere of Universal Studios Florida’s newest nighttime lagoon show, the Universal Cinematic Spectacular: 100 Years of Movie Memories. Being relatively new to the Universal Orlando Resort parks, I had not seen past nighttime shows, but when I first heard about Cinematic Spectacular, I was excited to see it.

After two years of planning and executing, the Universal team, led by Show Director and writer Mike Aiello, have brought the movies to life. They found a new technology in Aqua Graphic Curtains, which provide a crystal clear backdrop for the movie projections. The images are viewable the same on both sides of the curtain – not in reverse. There are several of these curtains spread across the lagoon, flanked by fountains, which provide an additional canvas in some scenes, and color accents in others. Top it all off with Morgan Freeman narration, original movie soundtracks, and fireworks, and you’ve got a pretty good movie show. In fact, fans of Disney parks will probably feel like this the ending of the Great Movie Ride, on steroids. It was fun to spot favorite movies in the mix, and the scenes are up to date, with Battleship and Snow White and the Hunstman clips included. This is definitely a show you can see over and over and see something new each time. I love how you can stand at various points across the edge of the lagoon and see virtually the same show; you aren’t missing anything.

Let’s hear a bit more from Mike Aiello and see the Cinematic Spectacular from the Battery Park area of Universal Studios Florida:

 

I will admit that the E.T. part brought a tear to my eye, it’s hard to compete with those iconic scenes and swells of John Williams score. Overall, this show does what it says, celebrates 100 years of movie memories. It leaves you pumped about the history of movie-making, and Universal Pictures roll in that history. There were quite a few times I looked over to my husband as our favorite movies popped up, and over to my children as well, as their favorites appeared. Movies truly do unite us all and this show was a satisfying way to affirm that.

Universal's Cinematic Spectacular - 100 years of Movie Memories
Overview of the lagoon with the various aqua screens. Image © Universal Studios

 

So many people rush to compare Disney Parks to Universal, and as someone that’s grown up going to Walt Disney World, I understand. However, after having visited the Universal Orlando Resort several times over the past months, I realize that there really is no comparison. Sure, they are competing for our tourist dollars and guest revenue, but Universal is a completely different experience, and stands on its own, with no “but Disney…” needed. Since all of my visits to the parks have been as invited media, I haven’t even gotten to experience all the attractions the parks have to offer, but I do know that I love looking at the authentic architecture in the New York and Hollywood sections of Universal Studios Florida, and the theming in Islands of Adventure is wonderful too. I look forward to when I can experience the rest of the parks but until then, I love the entertainment options I’ve seen so far. They are completely different than what Disney does daily – and that’s okay.

Be sure to check out the Cinematic Spectacular on your next visit and check out video from the new Superstar Parade before you visit too. Thanks to Universal for providing dinner and exclusive viewing of both shows for my family and me. The opinions expressed here are 100% my own – we loved both shows!

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Filed Under: Florida Theme Parks & Attractions, Universal Orlando Resort Tagged With: 100 years of movies, 100 years of Universal Pictures, aquacurtain, central florida, family fun, fireworks, fountains, lagoon show, Mike Aiello, Morgan Freeman, nightly show, universal orlando resort, Universal Studios, universal studios florida, Universal's Cinematic Spectacular, water effects, Year to Be Here

Universal Orlando Resort Creates Family Fun with its Superstar Parade

9 May 2012 by Suzannah Otis 3 Comments

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Superstar Parade
Universal’s Superstar Parade is now open, bringing an entirely new form of entertainment to Universal Studios Florida that combines wildly creative floats with hundreds of performers to create whole new levels of fun and excitement. Image ©Universal Studios Florida

Last night, Universal Orlando Resort premiered its two newest entertainment offerings. These shows have been in sneak peek mode for a few weeks now, but media (myself included) and special guests were invited to experience their grand opening, and given the red carpet treatment too. While the central Florida rain put a slight delay on festivities, we were still able to see both shows and they were worth the wait.

Universal Orlando continues to impress me with their new offerings and they are living up to their “Year to Be Here” motto for 2012. The Superstar Parade has taken two years to get to fruition and the result is something for everyone. Parade Show Director Lora Wallace explained that this was no accident. If your child loves Dora and Diego, they will be thrilled at the float containing the familiar pair, along with Boots the monkey and baby jaguar. If they have outgrown Dora, there are tumbling monkeys on the float which will impress any age group. The same goes for SpongeBob SquarePants; if you aren’t a fan, they’ve added aerial silk performers on the back of his float to entertain and wow audiences. One of my favorite parts was the HOP float, where E.B. plays a drum set on the float, as a drum corps follows along behind him. Lora is a former snare drum player from her high school marching band, so this was a personal addition she was pleased to add as it tied in with HOP perfectly. As a mom of a school band drummer, I loved it too!

E.B. from HOP
My daughter loved meeting E.B. from HOP (I wished Russel Brand were there!)

 

In addition to these fun visual elements, this new parade makes two stops along its route – in the Hollywood and New York areas. These stops showcase dance numbers and tons of guest interaction. No matter where you watch the parade, you’ll get a slightly different experience, or you can choose to stand in a specific spot to see your favorite characters. The Despicable Me characters which lead the parade are a great park addition and will tie in perfectly to the new Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem attraction opening this summer. I can’t wait!

Despicable Me
Gru and a few Minions…

 

The Superstar Parade runs daily at 5pm. Plans have not yet been finalized for the presentation of this parade during the Macy’s Holiday and Mardi Gras parade seasons, but it will all be worked out according to Senior Vice President for Entertainment at Universal Orlando, Jim Timon. Our viewing was shown at night due to the rain delay, so the video below will reflect that. However, for a parade created to show in the daytime, it’s still quite vibrant and beautiful at night! Check out the video below for a preview with some Superstar Parade highlights:

 


You can find out more about Universal Orlando Resort at UniversalOrlando.com. Special thanks to the UOR team for providing my family with dinner, desserts and entertainment so I could review these events for you. Opinions and reviews are 100% my own. Also check out the Cinematic Spectacular: 100 Years of Universal Memories, the amazing new nighttime lagoon show.

 

Dora, Diego and Gio
Dora, Diego and Giovanni!

 

 

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Filed Under: Florida Theme Parks & Attractions, Universal Orlando Resort Tagged With: 100 years of movies, 100 years of Universal Pictures, central florida, Despicable Me, Diego, Dora the Explorer, family fun, Gru, Lora Wallace, Minions, parade, Spongebob, universal orlando resort, Universal Studios, universal studios florida, Universal's Cinematic Spectacular, Universal's Superstar Parade, Vector, Year to Be Here

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