Tag: Universal

Universal Orlando Halloween Horror Nights 2024

Universal Orlando just announced this year’s Halloween Horror Nights event! It will take place on select nights August 30 – November 3, 2024, primarily Wednesday – Sunday nights, from 6:30pm – 2am.

Tickets are on sale now! There are also express passes, R.I.P. tours, and hotel packages. Select ticket purchases come with 6 months of Peacock streaming this year.

Halloween Horror Nights is a separately ticketed nighttime event, with 5 scare zones, 10 haunted houses, live entertainment, rides and attractions, food, merchandise, and more. Details of the haunted houses are yet to be revealed. Stay tuned!

Note that some of the scares are pretty intense and gory, so it may be too much for the little ones and the faint of heart. It is not recommended for those under age 13. There are plenty of YouTube videos about it from previous years if you want to get a sense of what it’s really like first.

This is a very popular event so if you are interested, you should buy your tickets ASAP.

For more details, visit the Universal Orlando Horror Nights site.

Contact me if you want me to help plan your Universal trip.

AdventuresByAnne.com

© Universal Studios

Universal Epic Universe – How To Train Your Dragon

How to Train Your Dragon

Universal Epic Universe introduced details of one of the worlds, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, in this new theme park, opening in 2025 at Universal Orlando Resort.

In How to Train Your Dragon, take to the skies and soar with dragons as you explore the colorful Viking village at the heart of Berk. From an exciting coaster to a heart-warming live show, it’s fire-breathing fun for all ages.

Hiccup’s Wing Gliders – Get a dragon’s eye view as Hiccup’s latest flying (coaster) contraption sends you swooping and soaring, above and around the Isle of Berk.

Dragon Racer’s Rally – Hold on tight and practice aerobatic maneuvers on a Viking-made dragon-riding trainer in hopes of becoming a champion dragon-racer.

Fyre Drill – Ruffnut & Tuffnut have created a watery boat battle where teams of Vikings compete to outscore and out-soak each other.

The Untrainable Dragon – The arrival of a new dragon in Berk presents a challenge to Hiccup, Gobber and Astrid in this spectacular live show.

Viking Training Camp – Young Vikings will discover all types of dragons as they climb, slide and explore in this sprawling, interactive adventure play camp.

Mead Hall – Feast like Vikings on a hearty menu of meats, fish, and drinks including a variety of meads, ciders and ales.

How to Train Your Dragon

In addition, meet Hiccup and Toothless at the Haddock Paddock and meet other Vikings and dragons around Berk. You may even catch a glimpse of dragons flying high above the village!

Are you excited for this new world?


Epic Universe Overview

The image above shows an overview of Universal Epic Universe along with the other worlds that make up the park. More details will be revealed about each in the coming months. Stay tuned!

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Ministry of Magic

In The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ – Ministry of Magic™, explore international wizarding communities from 1920s Paris to the 1990s British Ministry via floo network.

Super Nintendo World

At Super Nintendo World™ you’ll experience a new way to play, from challenging Bowser on the Mario Kart™ ride to venturing through Donkey Kong Country™ and so much more.

Dark Universe

In Dark Universe, explore a world of myth and mystery, from the experiments of Dr. Victoria Frankenstein to a shadowy landscape where monsters roam.

Celestial Park

Celestial Park is the central hub area of Epic Universe, with lush tree-lined walkways, dancing fountains, restaurants, shops, and more.

Visit my previous post to see the details revealed already about Celestial Park.

Universal Epic Universe

Contact me if you want to chat about planning a Universal trip. Subscribe to my blog and follow my Instagram and Facebook to get future updates on this new park.

AdventuresByAnne.com

Universal Epic Universe

© Universal Studios

Universal Orlando Offers

Universal Studios Orlando

Universal Orlando Resort currently has several ticket deals and special offers. Now is a great time to book your next Universal trip!

Save 25% on a 3-Park, 5-Night Package

This offer is valid for a 5-night stay at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort, Universal’s Aventura Hotel, or Loews Portofino Bay Hotel in a standard room with a 3-Park 5-Day Park-to-Park ticket between 11/12/23 – 07/31/24.

3-Park 5-Night Vacation Package Starting From Only $89 Per Person, Per Night

This offer is valid for a 5-night stay at select Universal Partner Hotels in a standard room with a 3-Park 4-Day Base ticket (one park per day) and a $75 Bundle and Save Discount off the total vacation package price. It can be upgraded to a stay at a Universal Orlando Resort Hotel. Valid for bookings between 3/14/24-6/12/24 and for stays on select nights 3/14/24-3/22/24, 4/16/24-6/26/24, 7/14/24-8/16/24, or 9/1/24-12/18/24.

Save 20% on 4-Nights at a Universal Orlando Hotel

Stay at a Universal Orlando hotel for four or more nights and save 20% on a non-discounted room rate. This offer is valid for stays between Jan. 2-Feb. 15, Feb. 25-29, Apr. 7-May 23, May 27-Nov. 26, or Dec. 1-19, 2024. Separate theme park admission tickets are required for theme park entry.

Save up to $668 on a 4+ Night Stay at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel

Stay at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel and enjoy exclusive theme park benefits like Universal Express Unlimited. Book by Aug. 6, 2024 for travel Sundays-Thursdays between May 31-Aug. 10, 2024.

Play 4 Days From $74 Per Day, Plus Tax

This offer is valid for a 2-Park 4-Day base ticket valid for one park a day at either Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure. It may be upgraded to a park-to-park ticket or a 3-park ticket to include Volcano Bay.

Get 3 Months Free on Any Annual Pass

Buy a new Universal Annual Pass and get three extra months of fun. Blockout dates and restrictions apply.

Military Ticket Deals and Specials

As thanks for your service, Universal offers specially priced tickets and vacation packages to active duty and retired service members. Purchase exclusively at your Authorized Military Ticket and Travel Office.

Universal Royal Pacific Resort

Florida Residents: Buy a Day, Get 2 Days Free On a 2-Park, 1-Day Park-to-Park Ticket

Florida residents can get 2 days free when they buy a 1-day 2-Park Park-to-Park ticket. Add a day at Universal Volcano Bay for only $28 more. This ticket is not available at the front gate; it must be bought online. Use by 6/26/24. Ticket prices vary by day. Blockout dates and restrictions apply.

Florida Residents: Save 40% on Rooms at Select Universal Orlando Hotels

Florida residents can save 40% on rooms at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort, Loews Sapphire Falls Resort, and Loews Portofino Bay Hotel only for travel Sun – Thur. 2/15 – 3/21/24, 4/7 – 5/23/24 and 5/27 – 5/30/24. Savings are based on the non-discounted double occupancy price for the same room before tax. Limited availability and subject to capacity and change without notice. A valid Florida ID is required at check-in. Separate theme park admission is required for theme park entry.

Florida Residents: Create Your Own Vacation Package

Florida residents can select the hotel of their choice, customize their theme park admission, and add vacation enhancements to enjoy Universal Orlando Resort the way they want to. Must be purchased by April 17, 2024 for travel before December 31, 2024.

Universal Wizarding World of Harry Potter

There are many options for planning an amazing Universal trip this year. In addition to these offers, several standard packages are available year-round, such as the The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ Exclusive Vacation Package. Visit the Universal Special Offers page and Universal Packages page for more details.

We love the Universal Parks! If you’re a fellow Harry Potter fan, these parks are definitely a must-do. Please contact me if you want to chat more about planning a Universal trip.

AdventuresByAnne.com

©Universal Studios

Universal Butterbeer™ Season

Butterbeer

Happy Butterbeer™ Season!  Universal Studios just announced a new “Butterbeer™ Season” in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter starting today!

Update 5/1/2024: Butterbeer™ Season has been extended until June 2, 2024.

From March 15 – April 30, 2024, you can enjoy new delicious Butterbeer™ flavored snacks at Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood.

Do you like your Butterbeer™ cold, frozen, or hot? This very popular non-alcoholic drink from Harry Potter lore is available in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter lands in the Universal Parks. The flavor is most similar to butterscotch and cream soda but delicious and unique in its own way. In addition to the iconic drinks, Butterbeer™ flavor is currently available in Butterbeer™ fudge, potted cream, and ice cream forms. You can also enjoy a fresh mug of cold or frozen Butterbeer™ in a souvenir stein.

During Butterbeer™ Season, new items will include Butterbeer™ flavored popsicles, Butterbeer™ caramels (Orlando only), and other yet-to-be-announced treats.

At Universal Studios Hollywood, a new Florean Fortescue’s Ice Cream counter will open inside Honeydukes on Friday, March 29th. It will feature 10 ice cream flavors, including Butterbeer™, of course.

Have you had Butterbeer™ before? What’s your favorite? I like the hot, no, the frozen. Actually, I like them all, it’s hard to decide. Time to plan a Universal trip!

Are you excited to see what other Butterbeer™ snacks they come out with? Contact me if you want to chat about a Universal trip.

Cheers to Butterbeer™!

AdventuresByAnne.com

Butterbeer treats

Pics © Universal Studios

Last Minute Gift

White Mountains, New Hampshire

Happy Valentine’s Day to those who celebrate it! Do you still need a last-minute gift?

Book a trip!

You can still very quickly book a future weekend getaway, a cruise, or an even longer trip today. Just do an initial booking and plan the rest together. That’s part of the fun!

Most hotel bookings don’t even need a booking payment and resorts or cruises usually only need a 20% deposit. There are plenty of deals out there right now for Disney, Universal, cruises, and many other locations. If you book far out enough, that can give you plenty of time to save up the balance and plan the rest of the trip itinerary later.

Just make sure to book something where your reservation and deposit are cancellable and refundable just in case you end up deciding to change plans. Be sure to read the fine print and know the policies.

If you want me to help you plan and book your trip, contact me anytime. For some ideas of possible trips, check out my Instagram and website.

AdventuresByAnne.com

AdventuresByAnne@gmail.com

Universal Epic Universe Announcement

Epic Universe Overview

Universal Epic Universe introduced the first details of this amazing new theme park, opening in 2025 at Universal Orlando Resort.

The image above shows an overview of Universal Epic Universe along with each of the five worlds that make up the park.

Click on each world below for the details that have been revealed so far about each one. I’ll add more info as they’re revealed by Universal. Subscribe below to get notified whenever I have a new post.

Please contact me if I can help plan and book your next Universal trip.


The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Ministry of Magic

In The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ – Ministry of Magic™, explore international wizarding communities from 1920s Paris to the 1990s British Ministry via floo network.

Super Nintendo World

At Super Nintendo World™ you’ll experience a new way to play, from challenging Bowser on the Mario Kart™ ride to venturing through Donkey Kong Country™ and so much more.

How to Train Your Dragon

In How to Train Your Dragon, take to the skies and soar with dragons as you explore the colorful Viking village at the heart of Berk. Take part in wild boat battles, feast like a Viking, and more.

Dark Universe

In Dark Universe, explore a world of myth and mystery, from the experiments of Dr. Victoria Frankenstein to a shadowy landscape where monsters roam.

Celestial Park

Celestial Park is the central hub area of Epic Universe, with lush tree-lined walkways, dancing fountains, restaurants, shops, and more.

Here are all of the details about the rides, restaurants, and shops revealed so far about the Celestial Park area.

Stardust Racers is a breathtaking, dual-launch coaster reaching incredible speeds up to 62 mph. Board a comet and rocket to the furthest reaches of the stars, at heights up to 133 feet along 5,000 feet of track. Race along an inverted crisscross, known as the “Celestial Spin” in a dazzling display of blazing colors and ethereal music.

On Constellation Carousel, ride celestial lions, dragons, bears, and more as they turn 360 degrees while lifting riders up to 6 feet in the air. Celestial music and color dazzle your senses as you whirl and twirl together across the Milky Way.

Enjoy exceptional seafood and steak in Atlantic, a fine dining restaurant, or sip a cocktail at the lively Aquaria Bar. Starfish dwell peacefully with serene, illuminated fish swimming above you on inside glass walls reminiscent of an enormous Victorian aquarium.

In the Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant, authentic Pan-Asian fare is served in a bustling courtyard under the glow of ethereal hanging lanterns. Watch dazzling neon dragons chase across the walls as you enjoy a cocktail at The Tiger Bar.

Visit the Nintendo Super Star Store for toys, apparel and other colorful keepsakes and souvenirs based on characters from SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™ and more.

Universal Helios Grand Hotel is a full-service hotel with a dedicated and exclusive entrance into Epic Universe. You’ll be transported to a fantastical world where heavens and earth unite.

While this one will be connected to the park, two other hotels will be available too just outside of the park – Stella Luna and Stella Nova resorts.

Universal Helios Grand Hotel

Are you excited for this new Universal theme park? When this opens in 2025, it’ll join the two current theme parks, Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, and the Volcano Bay water park, for an epic vacation!

Contact me if you want to chat about planning a Universal trip. Subscribe to my blog and follow my Instagram and Facebook to get future updates on this new park.

Universal Epic Universe

© Universal Studios

Mardi Gras 2024 at Universal

Universal Mardi Gras

On select nights from February 3 – April 7, 2024, you can celebrate Mardi Gras at Universal Studios Orlando!

You can join in the fun of an awesome party inspired by Carnaval celebrations from around the world.

The popular Mardi Gras parade will be one of the highlights of the night. Catch beads flying through the air as you enjoy a dazzling Mardi Gras parade with authentic floats direct from New Orleans.

You can even join in the Mardi Gras tradition of throwing beads from the floats! In the past, they’ve had a virtual queue that you can join in the Universal app each parade morning for a chance to ride on the floats, pending availability. However, if you want to guarantee a spot for yourself, you can now buy the Float Ride & Dine Experience. Enjoy a 3-course meal at one of four participating Universal restaurants and get a reserved spot on a float. This is very popular and spots are limited, so buy quickly if you want to do this.

Mardi Gras Concert

Some nights will also have live concerts by some pretty big names on the Music Plaza Stage. Get there early! Check the site for the performer lineup as it gets closer.

Update 1/20/2024: The concert lineup has been revealed, and includes DJ Khaled, Ava Max, Luis Fonsi, and more!

Beignets

Of course, there will be plenty of delicious foods, from sizzling New Orleans specialties to flavors inspired by tastes from around the world, available for purchase. Be sure to visit the Mardi Gras food kiosks located throughout the park.

Access to the parade and concerts is included with the standard park entry ticket to the Universal Studios park. Make sure that you start your day in that park, not Islands of Adventure, if you don’t have park-to-park tickets.

For more details, visit the Universal Mardi Gras page.

We went to Universal last year on a Mardi Gras night and it was really fun. Those floats are amazing! Feel free to contact me if you want me to help plan your Universal trip.

Mardi Gras parade

Pics © Universal Studios

New Years Eve at Universal Hollywood

Be part of Universal Studios Hollywood’s EVE event on December 31, 2023, where you can party til 2am!

There will be multiple party areas with music, dancing, and a midnight countdown celebration with fireworks.

EVE festivities are included with valid theme park admission for Dec 31st. Entertainment begins at 9pm and ends at 2am. Select rides and attractions will close early during the event. All rides and attractions will close by 1am.

Universal Hollywood Holidays

In the meantime, celebrate the holidays at Universal Hollywood’s You Do Yule festivities with new foods, shows, and more!

Feel free to contact me if you want me to help you plan your Universal trip.

Happy Holidays!

Holidays at Universal Studios Hollywood 2023

Grinchmas

Celebrate the holidays at Universal Studios Hollywood from November 24, 2023 – January 1, 2024!

Enjoy the music and fun of Grinchmas™ at the Who-tacular Celebration. Meet the Grinch, his dog Max, and other Who-ville residents. Catch the lighting of the one-of-a-kind Dr. Seuss inspired tree and other Who-ville decorations.

Hogwarts Castle

Join the celebration in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter as Hogwarts™ castle lights up for the holidays and festive decor brightens up the streets of Hogsmeade™. Listen to seasonal melodies from the Frog Choir while you sip on delicious Butterbeer™. (If the hot one is available, give it a try. It’s my favorite one!)

Of course, there will be plenty of holiday-themed food for your belly and merchandise for your shopping list around the park. You can also meet some characters in their holiday finest.

CityWalk

Don’t miss the beautiful tree, dining, and shopping in CityWalk either.

Feel free to contact me if you want to chat about a Universal trip.

Universal Studios Hollywood Holidays

Pics © Universal Studios

2023 Holidays at Universal Orlando

Macy's Christmas Parade

Celebrate the holidays at Universal Orlando from November 17, 2023 – December 31, 2023!

See the Grinchmas Wholiday Spectacular for a live retelling of the classic holiday tale starring the Grinch. You can also meet the Grinch himself and Earl the Squirrel, Universal’s mini-celebrity, at various times of the day.

Listen to the iconic holiday music of Mannheim Steamroller. Live performances at the Universal Studios stage on December 2, 3, 9 and 10. No separate ticket needed.

Hogwarts Castle

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter will join in the festivities with holiday decor in Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley, and the gorgeous projection show against the Hogwarts Castle on most nights from dusk to park close. Also, sing along to holiday tunes by Celestina Warbeck and the Banshees, the Frog Choir, and more.

Holiday parade

Don’t miss the fun Holiday Parade featuring the gigantic Macy’s parade balloons, popular Universal characters, and of course, Santa Claus!

Of course, there will be plenty of holiday-themed food for your belly and merchandise for your shopping list.

Holiday food

Special events include The Grinch™ & Friends Character Breakfast. Join the mean green one himself and the Whos too for a morning feast. Start your day with a tasty buffet with food and fun for everyone. Additional ticket purchase required.

You can also join in the celebration with the Universal Holiday Tour on this 4.5 hour evening event. Experience special meet and greets, foods, shows, and more during a special walking tour around the parks. Additional ticket purchase required.

Feel free to contact me if you want to chat about a Universal trip.

Earl the Squirrel
Earl the Squirrel

Pics © Universal