Tag Archives: Universal Studios Florida

Everything You Need to Know About TRANSFORMERS: The Ride – 3D at Universal Studios Florida

There are several reasons why TRANSFORMERS: The Ride – 3D in Universal Studios Florida is one of the best rides at Universal Orlando Resort. The action is non-stop from the moment the ride begins, which is then only elevated by the special effects and 3-D elements. Because of the constant action and story turns, the ride feels like it lasts a long time! Lastly, for fans of the franchise who grew up watching the 1980’s animated television series or the more recent live-action movies, this ride gives you the chance to become a part of the long-lasting war between the Autobots and Decepticons — your classic good versus evil scenario.

Not only did TRANSFORMERS: The Ride – 3D bring a new hit attraction to the parks, it introduced one of the coolest character meet-and-greets. And just check out that giant Optimus Prime statue at the ride entrance! Here’s everything you need to know about one of the must-do rides in Universal Studios.

TRANSFORMERS: The Ride – 3D at Universal Studios Florida — Photo: Universal Orlando Resort

THE STORY

The battle between the Autobots and Decepticons (two factions of an alien robot species called Transformers) has come to Earth, and you’ve been recruited by the Non-biological Extraterrestrial Species Treaty (N.E.S.T.) to help defend mankind. Your objective: keep the AllSpark — a powerful object capable of creating new life — out of the Decepticon’s possession. Of course, the mission goes haywire as Decepticons descend on the N.E.S.T. base and an explosive battle begins…

THE QUEUE

As you enter the ride building, you’re entering N.E.S.T. headquarters, where you’ll receive debriefing on your mission from N.E.S.T. and the leader of the Autobots, Optimus Prime. Throughout the queue, you’ll encounter the AllSpark fragment that you’re tasked with protecting, as well as other Transformer artifacts and weaponry.

THE RIDE

Immediately after boarding your ride vehicle, which happens to be your Autobot partner Evac, you encounter your first Decepticon stealing the AllSpark until Bumblebee intervenes… but you’re not in the clear yet. Decepticons surround you at every turn as Evac attempts to evade the onslaught from Bonecrusher, Starscream, and more. During the struggle, you find yourself in the middle of Optimus Prime battling the evil Megatron. Do you and the Autobots defeat the Decepticons? I’ll leave that for you to discover.

The ride experience is motion simulation based with a ride vehicle that moves along a track (NOT a roller coaster) and combines 3-D visual and 4-D physical effects. The Transformers will appear larger-than-life with your 3-D glasses on, and you’ll feel the raging effects of battle around you like strong winds and heat.

Ride Details:
– Minimum height requirement of 40″ (101.6 cm) to ride
– Universal Express Pass is accepted
– You can take your bags on this ride (woot!)
– Child Swap is available upon request

MEET THE TRANSFORMERS

Whenever my friends or family come to the parks for vacation, one of my favorite things I tell them they have to do is meet the TRANSFORMERS characters. I remember the first time I stood next to them — I was in awe (and still am to this day)of how big and incredibly detailed they were, a feeling which only grew when next thing I knew they spoke to me!

You can meet three TRANSFORMERS daily right next to the ride building, kiddy-corner from the Supply Vault store. Optimus Prime (leader of the Autobots), Bumblebee (spunky Autobot lieutenant), and Megatron (leader of the Decepticons).

Download the Universal Orlando Resort App to see the daily meet-and-greet times for the TRANSFORMERS.

SUPPLY VAULT

You’ll need to gear up on N.E.S.T. essentials now that you’ve been recruited to join the battle. Stop by the Supply Vault store (near the exit of the ride) for all things TRANSFORMERS merchandise.

Deck yourself out in N.E.S.T. T-shirts, cadet hats, and bags, or show your support for either Autobots or Decepticons with themed apparel, car decals, magnets, mugs, and more.
We can’t talk TRANSFORMERS without mentioning the toys and collectibles (which for some of us are the same thing).

Check out more TRANSFORMERS merchandise before your trip on our online merch store.

FUN FACTS

The Orlando ride is the third installation of the TRANSFORMERS ride at a Universal theme park, the first is at Universal Studios Singapore and the second at Universal Studios Hollywood.
Evac, the Transformer who is your ride vehicle, was created and designed exclusively for the Universal ride.
During the ride, see if you can spot the famous yellow Volkswagen Beetle that was Bumblebee’s alter ego in the original comic and TV series.

Besides Optimus Prime, Bumblebee, and Megatron, there are 13 other Autobots and Decepticons you encounter throughout the ride.
When working with big transforming robots, everything is going to be giant in scale. The ride is no exception with 34 custom built screens that tower at heights of over 80 feet tall.

Are you ready to keep the AllSpark safe? Autobots, roll out!

Thanks Universal Orlando Resort Blog!

14 Restaurants Where You Can Enjoy Breakfast at Universal Orlando Resort

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From the Universal Orlando Resort Blog:

Breakfast has always had a reputation as the most important meal of the day, and maybe even more so when you’re on vacation. It gets you energized for all of the fun activities you’re going to do, while also giving you the opportunity to indulge in delicious food.

Whether you’re staying at one of Universal Orlando’s hotels or looking to come to Universal CityWalk or the parks early, there are plenty of great breakfast spots throughout Universal Orlando Resort. Here are 14 recommendations for a delicious breakfast at Universal Orlando Resort.

Breakfast in Universal Orlando Resort Theme Parks

Universal Studios Florida

TODAY Cafe

Start your day the right way with a hot cup of coffee and fresh pastries from TODAY Cafe. Or choose a heartier option like a breakfast sandwich or an acai bowl. Also offering lunch options, TODAY Cafe is the perfect spot for brunch if you want to work up your appetite by hitting a few rides first.

Click here to see the full TODAY Cafe breakfast menu.

Leaky Cauldron

Before you set out to explore The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley, enjoy a hot breakfast from the Leaky Cauldron. Indulge in authentic British fare like the Traditional Breakfast or an Egg, Leek & Mushroom Pasty. I recommend this as the go-to spot for guests with Early Park Admission.

Click here to see the full Leaky Cauldron breakfast menu.

Quick Breakfast Bites in Universal Studios Florida:

Universal’s Islands of Adventure

Three Broomsticks

One of my favorite places to have breakfast is in the Three Broomsticks in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade. I love being able to enjoy a plate of pancakes and Pumpkin Juice with a view of Hogwarts first thing in the morning. It feels surreal.

Click here to see the full Three Broomsticks breakfast menu.

Green Eggs & Ham Cafe

Okay, so not your traditional breakfast item, but you’re on vacation, right? Make Sam I Am proud by grabbing a plate of Green Eggs & Ham Tots.

Quick Breakfast Bites in Universal’s Islands of Adventure:

Universal’s Volcano Bay

Kohola Reef Restaurant & Social Club

Before you go conquer the Krakatau Aqua Coaster, fuel up with breakfast at Kohola Reef Restaurant & Social Club. During the summertime (from May through early Sept.), you can chow down on breakfast pizza, sandwiches, and wraps. Outside of this summertime offering, you can still enjoy a refreshing continental breakfast with fresh pastries and fruits.

Breakfast at Universal Orlando Resort Hotels

Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites

(official opening date coming soon)

Pier 8 Market

Dockside Inn and Suites is all about relaxation, so why not ease into your morning that way? Wake up with a refreshing glass of orange juice and one of the delicious breakfast items like chicken and waffles or the Pier 8 Egg Muffin. My personal favorite is the Avocado Toast, which happens to be vegan!

Click here to see more of the food and beverage options that will be available at Pier 8 Market.

Quick Breakfast Bites at Dockside Inn and Suites:

Starbucks

Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites

Beach Break Cafe

Beach Break Cafe offers hearty breakfast items that get you ready for a sunshine-filled day in the parks or out by the pool. Choose from breakfast pizzas, burritos, egg muffins, and even a crispy chicken sandwich.

Click here to see the full Beach Break Cafe breakfast menu.

Quick Breakfast Bites at Surfside Inn and Suites:

Starbucks

Universal’s Aventura Hotel

Urban Pantry

Two words: hash station. This unique staple of Urban Pantry lets you choose from a bowl or wrap with your choice of protein, eggs, cheese, and fresh ingredients. You also have your traditional breakfast station with your morning favorites, including a bacon and egg sandwich that is quite scrumptious.

Click here to see the full Urban Pantry breakfast menu.

Quick Breakfast Bites at Aventura Hotel:

Starbucks

Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort

Bayliner Diner

Bayliner Diner is the perfect mix of quick-selection and sit-down options. If you want to relax and ease into the day, you can grab a plate of eggs and your choice of sides. Prefer to swing by on your way to the parks? Grab a breakfast sandwich to go.

Click here to see the full Bayliner Diner breakfast menu.

Quick Breakfast Bites at Cabana Bay Beach Resort:

Starbucks

Loews Sapphire Falls Resort

Amatista Cookhouse

Breakfast buffets are kinda my jam, especially when I’m vacay. Amatista Cookhouse has one of the best buffets I’ve ever tried. There is a ton of fresh fruit and pastries, biscuits and gravy, smoked salmon, oatmeal and grits, specialty eggs and more. OR you can order off the menu with Carribean inspired dishes like the Eg g White and Smoked Turkey Arepa. You can make a reservation ahead of time here.

Click here to see the full Amatista Cookhouse breakfast menu.

Quick Breakfast Bites at Sapphire Falls Resort:

New Dutch Trading Co.

Loews Royal Pacific Resort

Islands Dining Room

Wake up and get a taste of island life with options like Hawaiin Pancakes, Tahitian French Toast a L’Orange, Smoked Salmon, and more. You can also get your traditional breakfast items like omelets, pancakes, and eggs. You can make a reservation ahead of time here.

Click here to see the full Islands Dining Room breakfast menu.

Quick Breakfast Bites at Royal Pacific Resort:

Tuk Tuk Market

Hard Rock Hotel Orlando

The Kitchen

The Kitchen has some of the best french toast and waffles I’ve ever had, with “The Elvis” being one of their famous french toasts (pictured above). If you’re visiting on a Sunday, you can also do their Sunday Brunch with live music. Make a reservation ahead of time here.

Click here to see the full The Kitchen breakfast menu.

Quick Breakfast Bites at Hard Rock Hotel Orlando:

Emack & Bolio’s Marketplace

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel

(official reopening date coming soon)

Trattoria del Porto

Enjoy a delightful morning out on the piazza at Trattoria del Porto. Choose from an excellent breakfast buffet with options for the whole family, or you can order a la carte like the Breakfast Quesadilla. You can make a reservation ahead of time here.

Click here to see the full Trattoria del Porto breakfast menu.

Quick Breakfast Bites at Portofino Bay Hotel:

CRAVING MORE?:If that wasn’t enough of a teaser for your tastebuds, feast your eyes on these T op 10 Breakfast Options at Universal Orlando’s Hotels.

Breakfast at Universal CityWalk

Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen

You can enjoy breakfast all day from Toothsome Chocolate Emporium where you can choose from either sweet or savory dishes. You can have delectable waffles like the Banana Fosters or Berries and Cream. And for those looking for heartier options, try the Country Fresh French Toast or the Quiche Lorraine.

Click here to see the full Toothsome Chocolate Emporium breakfast menu.

Quick Breakfast Bites in CityWalk:

BONUS: Character Breakfasts

Treat yourself to a fun morning with some of your favorite characters while enjoying a delicious breakfast.

The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast (Seasonal)

This is my top, must-do dining experience at Universal Orlando Resort. During select days Nov. – Dec. you can grab breakfast with The Grinch and Whos from Seuss Landing. It’s like you’ve stepped into a Dr. Seuss book with whimsical drinks and treats and the famous plate of Green Eggs & Ham. *Reservations are required

Where are you going to have breakfast at Universal Orlando Resort first on your next vacation? Click here to see all of Universal Orlando’s dining options and start planning now.

11 Tips for Visiting Universal Orlando Resort This Summer

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11 Tips for Visiting Universal Orlando Resort This Summer

The parks, hotels, and CityWalk at Universal Orlando Resort are open and starting to welcome guests back. Things may look a little different in the parks from your last visit with new operational guidelines, but it’s still the same Universal that you know and love. You will find fun, new ways to experience the parks. The rides are just as thrilling, the pools just as relaxing, the characters just as entertaining, and the food just as good. Here are 11 tips for visiting Universal Orlando Resort this summer, including how to make your visit easier and more convenient.

1. Download and Use the Universal Orlando Resort App

Take a minute (if you haven’t already) to download the Universal Orlando Resort app. It will help you navigate around the crowds, trim down your time waiting in queues, minimize physical interactions, and so much more! Here are the top features of the Universal Orlando Resort app:

Virtual Line experience for attractions
Mobile food and drink ordering for select restaurants
Interactive park map
Virtual wallet where you can purchase and house your park tickets, Express passes, and also set up your TapuTapu for your visit to Volcano Bay
Wait time alerts that you can set for when the times drop

Download it for FREE from the App Store and Google Play. Data and other charges may apply; check with your wireless provider’s rate plan for details.

2. Avoid Crowds with the Virtual Line Experience

Want to avoid crowds AND get a place in line faster on your favorite rides? The Virtual Line experience is the answer and it’s now available for even more attractions than before. You can access it via the app under “Virtual Line Experience” in the menu or per attraction on the interactive map. You then select your “Return Time”, show up, and ride. It’s that easy! The Virtual Line experience for attractions open throughout the day, so make sure to check the app often to see what is available. And while you’re waiting, you have free time to experience other rides, shows, or grab a bite to eat. Heads up, you have to be in-park to access the Virtual Line experience feature on the app.

3. Order Your Food Ahead of Time with Mobile Order

If you haven’t tried mobile order, prepare to have your theme park life changed. When your stomach is rumbling, jump on the app and select “Order Food and Drinks” from the menu. Then you select the venue and order your food. You can either do this for a quick pick-up and go, or for a quick-service restaurant where you will be seated in a special section for mobile orders.

Click here to get a step-by-step guide to mobile ordering on the Universal Orlando Resort app.

4. Make a Game Plan Beforehand

This is always one of my top recommendations for visiting the parks. Do your research and create a must-do list with all of the attractions, shops, shows, etc. you definitely want to do. Planning out where to start and using the app to navigate wait times and the Virtual Line experience will help you to do everything you are looking to do during your visit.

5. Get a More Personalized Experience With Social Distancing

Social distancing may slow down the queue for wait times temporarily, but it may make the rides and show elements even more special. For example, not having people right next to you in the queue may actually allow you to enjoy better conversations with your party as you wait. The spaced seating on the ride vehicle makes it feel like you have the ride to yourselves. Smaller groups and spaced standing through Poseidon’s Fury allows for a more intimate show. And having more space around character meet and greets allowed for no unexpected-guest photobombs in the background.

6. Take a Break in the U-Rest Areas

In addition to planning out what you want to do, make sure to slot in time to take breaks. There are new U-Rest areas sprinkled throughout the parks and CityWalk, where you can recharge with a drink or snack with your face covering off. You can find them in the following locations:

Universal CityWalk
- Down by the waterfront in front of Hard Rock
Universal Studios Florida
- Fear Factor Live Theater
- Central Park by the lagoon
Universal’s Islands of Adventure
- Port of Entry Landing by the waterfront
- The Eighth Voyage of Sindbad Stunt Show Theater in Lost Continent (the show is no longer available)

7. Take All the Photos!

One thing you may find yourself doing more than usual at the parks is taking an exponentially large amount of photos. We’ve all missed the parks so much, and you’ll probably want to capture it all and share it with friends and family. Plus, it is pretty fun to take pictures in this new social distancing world. With more time saved with the Virtual Line experience and plenty of people-free space around you, you can capture some really great memories!

8. Early Park Admission Means More Time and Fewer Crowds

A huge benefit of staying at one of Universal Orlando Resort’s hotels is Early Park Admission into the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. This magical experience holds even more meaning and value today. Here’s what it is: if you stay at one of Universal’s hotels, you get exclusive access to the parks one hour before normal guest park hours with little to no crowds. Um, sign me up. Plus, when staying at the hotels, you don’t have to go through the check-in process at the entrance of CityWalk. You get a special wristband that shows you already had your temperature check and can go directly to the parks.

Click here to read up on the operational guidelines at Universal’s resort hotels.

9. Cool Off This Summer at Volcano Bay

I don’t know about you but I’m craving a relaxing day at the beach, but preferably with minimal crowds of people right next to me. Look no further than Universal’s Volcano Bay. They have the same new and helpful operational guidelines in place at the water theme park. Now, you may be asking yourself, “How do they expect us to wear face masks at Volcano Bay?” Good question, because I had the same one. I discovered you don’t have to wear a mask while you’re in the pools, slides, or eating/drinking. However, they should be worn when not doing these activities. Catch me poolside this summer with a Waturi Fusion ice cream and working on that stylish new trend of face-covering tan lines.

10. New Guidelines Aren’t the Only Things That Are New

The parks may have been closed for a couple of months, but select Team Members have been hard at work creating new experiences for you to come back to. There are new “Love is Universal” and anniversary merchandise to snatch up (have you seen the themed face masks!?); new food and beverage offerings that will be rolled out soon (there’s a new anniversary Voodoo Doughnut!?); and even new entertainment attractions with The Bourne Stuntacular and the new Raptor Encounter (the baby raptor Sierra is the cutest, am I right!?).

11. Here’s What to Bring

With my many years of going to theme parks, I’ve tried to perfect the essentials on what to bring. Now, with our current situation and operational guidelines, I found myself faced with a new challenge: what all to bring along to minimize physical contact but still have everything I need for a comfortable visit. Here are my recommendations:

A face covering with a light and breathable fabric. This isn’t just my recommendation, it’s a requirement when visiting the parks, CityWalk, and hotels. Major kudos to those with fun themes and designs. You’ll look awesome as you’re rocking out on Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit (yes, they’re required to be worn on rides, too). The good news is if you forgot your face covering, you can ask a Team Member for a replacement.
Your own personal hand sanitizer on a keychain. There are also hand sanitizer stations when you first enter through CityWalk, when you’re about to board a ride, and at restaurant entrances.
This has always remained true, but bring water to stay hydrated! You may find yourself being especially thirsty when wearing your face covering, so make sure to bring a water bottle with you.
Bring a small bag or carry a lanyard for your belongings. You’re still going to need to put items in lockers for certain attractions that require them. Team Members check the locker queues for social distancing and regularly clean them, but try to only bring the essentials if you want to minimize using them and save time.

Are you planning to visit Universal Orlando Resort this summer? We hope you enjoy these tips for visiting Universal Orlando Resort this summer!

Click here for details on our current operational guidelines when visiting Universal Orlando Resort.

Thanks Universal Orlando Resort Blog!

Halloween Horror Nights 2020 Returns to Universal Orlando Select Nights Sept. 10- Nov 1

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UPDATE: As of Friday July 24, 2020, Halloween Horror Nights has been cancelled for 2020. We can start looking forward to the return of the event in 2021, better than ever!

Halloween Horror Nights 2020, the World’s Premier Halloween Event, will return to Universal Orlando Resort on select nights from September 10 through November 1, 2020. Now in its 30th terrifying year, Halloween Horror Nights 2020 brings together monstrous haunted houses, sinister scare zones and outrageous live entertainment. Halloween Horror Nights 2020 will take place select nights September 10-November 1, 2020 at Universal Studios Florida. Advance purchase is required.

Halloween Horror Nights 2020 offers haunted houses, scare zones, exclusive merchandise, and so much more!

Haunted Houses: Make your way through terrifying haunted houses inspired by the biggest names in horror, plus Universal’s own twisted creations.

Scare Zones: Scareactors will prowl the streets of Universal Studios Florida which will be transformed into pulse-pounding scare zones.

Entertainment: Catch outrageous live entertainment that will have you crying out for more.

Attractions: Experience some of the park’s most exciting rides and attractions which will be open during the event.

Merchandise: Wear your terror with themed merchandise available online and at the event. You’ll be able to shop for hats, shirts, hoodies, mugs and more.

Food and Drinks: Feed your fear at select dining locations, some featuring food themed to this year’s haunted houses and specialty drinks concocted just for the event.

Halloween Horror Nights 2020 Vacation Package

You can book a Halloween Horror Nights vacation package to purchase your hotel accommodations, park tickets, and event ticket altogether. Plus, when you book by July 22, 2020, you’ll receive a second event night FREE. Package includes:

4-Night Hotel Accommodations
3-Park 4-Day Park-to-Park Promotional Ticket to Universal Studios Florida AND Universal’s Islands of Adventure AND Universal’s Volcano Bay (Valid for bookings Now – 8/13/20 and travel 9/10/20 – 11/1/20)
2020 Halloween Horror Nights Flex Plus 1 Night Free Promotional Ticket (Valid for bookings Now – 7/22/20 and for use on any 2 nights 9/10/20 – 11/1/20 (Blockout Dates Apply))
Early Park Admission to one (1) Universal Orlando theme park as determined by Universal Orlando one hour before the parks open (valid theme park admission required; select attractions)
Access to select live entertainment venues at Universal CityWalk

Starting prices at Universal Orlando Resort Hotels are based on Sunday–Thursday travel Sept. 10–24, 2020.

ENHANCE THE HORROR

You can be among the first to book one of these killer tours when you purchase a Halloween Horror Nights Hotel & Ticket package.

Behind the Screams: Unmasking the Horror Tour: Lights-on VIP tour

R.I.P. Tour: Nighttime VIP tour

Warning: This event may be too intense for young children and is not recommend for children under the age of 13.

The Bourne Stuntacular at Universal Studios Florida is Now Open

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From the Universal Orlando Resort Blog:

The Bourne Stuntacular at Universal Studios Florida — Photo: Universal Orlando Resort

The Bourne Stuntacular in Universal Studios Florida delivers a hybrid form of entertainment that has never been seen before. Here are all the details about the all-new live-action stunt show.

You’ll Be Surrounded By Your Favorite Scenes AND Actual Props From The Bourne Films

As you walk into the queue of the attraction, one of the first things you will see are images of your favorite scenes from “The Bourne Identity,” “The Bourne Supremacy,” and “The Bourne Ultimatum.” You will also see Jason’s go-to form of transportation in “The Bourne Ultimatum” — his motorcycle.

Experience An Original Storyline That Takes Place Within The Bourne Universe

You’ll pass through security scanners into mission headquarters where you’ll be welcomed and briefed by Nicky Parsons (Julia Stiles), Jason Bourne’s main confidant who helps him remember his past. Nicky, who can’t be in the field, will ask for your help tracking Bourne to ensure he does not get fooled by rogue double agents.

Then, as you enter the theater, you’ll join Jason Bourne as he travels across three continents and the cities of Tangier, Washington D.C. and Dubai, to uncover classified information all while trying to evade capture at every turn.

Extreme Stunts = Extreme Action

The stunts in The Bourne Stuntacular are next-level and here are a few reasons why:

The principal stunt trainers have doubled for A-list celebrities in some of the most popular action films and TV shows of all time. They have been working closely with the cast to deliver stunts that rival what can be seen in blockbuster films.
By the time the show opens, the performers and technicians will have trained and rehearsed for more than eight months to prepare and learn the intricate technical systems and maneuvers.
Two high free-falls – one reaching 22 feet from atop a Dubai apartment building.
There is as much action behind-the-curtain as there is on stage, with performers interacting with high-tech props beneath the stage on lifts, from the sides on automated traveling scenery like an apartment high-rise, and from overhead on a helicopter, a wrecking ball, ladders, and much more. It got to the point where I realized I kept turning my head in every direction just to keep up with the movements.

Without giving away too many spoilers, there is a scene where the character of Jason Bourne is being chased on a motorcycle when suddenly both the screen and Bourne go from normal speed to slow motion.

Cutting-Edge Technology You Have to See to Believe

The Bourne Stuntacular features some of the most advanced technology of its kind, like automated vehicle-tracking-systems, pinpoint-accurate projection mapping, and more. Fun-facts about the tech:

There is an immense LED screen measuring 3,640-square feet at 130-feet wide and 28-feet tall. This is code for one really, really, really BIG screen.
Advanced projection mapping works seamlessly alongside the cinema of the show, projecting pin-point accurate images on top of moving scenes.
One of the largest action show structures ever created for a Universal show – the car lift – sits beneath the stage and measures nearly 20 feet tall. The lift is capable of lifting and rotating two vehicles 280-degrees and raising and lowering each car independently from seven feet beneath the stage to above stage level. Putting this into perspective, when I watched the show the first time I had no idea there was anything beneath the stage, let alone two cars and a 20-foot wide structure that they operate on. All I saw were two cars suddenly racing, which left me wondering, “how did those get on stage?!”

You Won’t Just Watch The Action Unfold – You Will Feel It

Rounding out the experience are captivating practical effects that will make you feel like you’re right by Jason Bourne’s side through the use of fire, smoke, wind and more, including:

Eight moving set-pieces ranging from a three-wheeled motorcycle, a tower in a Tangier marketplace, and the front entrance of a grand mansion.
Gusts of wind as a helicopter travels overhead, the blast of a steam boiler, and several other explosions, including flames reaching a height of 20 feet.

Plus, Universal’s Entertainment and Creative Teams have been working hand-in-hand with the filmmakers and producers that worked on the Bourne film franchise to create an authentic and action-packed experience that will fully immerse you in the world of Bourne.

Let us know in the comments below what you’re most pumped to see at The Bourne Stuntacular at Universal Orlando Resort. The chase is on!

The TODAY Cafe at Universal Studios Florida to Open May 16, 2019

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From the Universal Orlando Resort Blog:

The TODAY Cafe is coming to Universal Orlando Resort this spring with a grand opening date of May 16! Inspired by NBC’s long-running morning show, the new cafe will make you feel as though you have stepped onto the TODAY set with unique theming and specialty items.

TODAY Cafe will be located at Universal Studios Florida, just inside the iconic arches and across the street from the Universal Studios Store – a prime location to grab breakfast, lunch or a snack before or after enjoying the theme parks for the day.

Our creative and culinary teams teamed up with TODAY to create one-of-a-kind experiences…

The Dining Experience

The venue is designed to look and feel like Studio 1A in New York City where TODAY broadcasts daily. Vibrant orange awnings and large floor-to-ceiling windows will line the outside of the cafe, as well as outdoor seating meant to look like the TODAY plaza.

Inside, you will be able to step into the stage lighting and TODAY’s vibrant orange theming with a modern and sleek design. Plus, as you sit down and enjoy your cup of coffee and a bite to eat, you can catch up on top headlines from TODAY’s live broadcast.

Eat & Drink

The TODAY Cafe will offer a specialty TODAY Cafe Blend, made exclusively for the venue, featuring locally-roasted private label coffee. You’ll be able to sip handcrafted cappuccinos, espresso, lattes, cold brew and more while chowing down on pastries, made fresh on-site daily, for the perfect breakfast and afternoon pick-me-up.

You will also be able to enjoy unique and healthy options including avocado toast and an organic acai bowl, as well as sandwiches and salads. One of the standout features of the TODAY Cafe menu will be seasonal dishes inspired by a TODAY personality.

Al’s Avocado Toast

The first seasonal dish is Al’s Avocado Toast, inspired by the one and only Al Roker! This dish features smashed avocados, cherry tomatoes, artichokes, roasted red onions, tomato aioli, toasted farmhouse white, served with bread & butter pickles.

Mulberry Street Italian Sandwich

Porchetta, spicy capicola, coppa, provolone, arugula, roasted tomato, basil aioli, on a crusty baguette

Porchetta, spicy capicola, coppa, provolone cheese, roasted tomato, arugula, basil aioli on a baguette

Chinatown Chicken Salad

Baby arugula, napa cabbage, radicchio, shitake mushrooms, daikon sprouts wasabi cashews, soy peanut vinaigrette

SOHO

Roasted cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, arugula, farro, avocado, prosciutto, lemon vinaigrette

I <3 Vegan

Roasted Portobello mushrooms, peppers, zucchini, carrots, vegan jalapeno cheese, sun-dried tomato pesto, pressed cranberry artisan bread

And, inspired by the fourth hour of TODAY, there will be wine and beer on tap, as well as a delicious cheese platter for two.

Check out some of the tasty menu items and let us know in the comments which dish you want to try first when the TODAY Cafe opens. Don’t forget to share with #ReadyForUniversal on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Top Ten Must Do’s at Universal Studios Florida

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You’re at Universal Orlando’s Universal Studios Florida. What do you need to do that will leave everyone at home wishing they were you? Here are the top ten must do’s at Universal Studios Florida:

1. Join Your Favorite Wizards on Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts

Plunge into the depths of Diagon Alley’s famed Gringotts bank as you encounter dragons, trolls, and Voldemort himself.

2. Practice Performing Spells at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley

Witches and wizards can practice their spell casting throughout The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley. Haven’t had a wand choose you yet? Be sure to check out Ollivanders or Wands by Gregorovitch when you arrive.

3. Become an actual Minion on Despicable Me Minion Mayhem

Gru is recruiting Minions for his latest scheme, and good news: it looks like you’re the perfect candidate.

4. Head to Studio 6B for Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon

Visit the famed Studio 6B for a unique tour of the Big Apple. Don’t forget to stop and smell the pizza.

5. Jam out on Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit

Select a song and prepare to rock on this coaster that takes you up a 90-degree angle before dropping you back down at 65 mph.

6. Help Optimus Prime and Bumblebee save mankind on Transformers: The Ride 3-D

It’s time for someone to take down Megatron and the Decepticons, and that someone could be you.

7. Dare to Eat an Entire Lard Lad Donut in The Simpsons’ Springfield, U.S.A.

Giant pink-iced donuts, Brain Freezin’ D’oh-Nut Sundaes, delectable cupcakes… Need we say more?

8. Flee From the Evil Imhotep on Revenge of the Mummy

Forwards or backwards – you’ll barely be able to tell which way you’re moving on this dark coaster. All you’ll care about is avoiding the swarm of insects, mummies, fire…

9. Boogie down with popular characters in the Superstar Parade

Seriously. Where else can you dance with Gru and the Minions, Dora and Diego, plus the one and only SpongeBob SquarePants?

10. Wipe out the scum of the universe on MEN IN BLACK Alien Attack

Aliens have taken over New York and we’re arming you with a blaster to zap them into oblivion. Rack up points and get ready for a lifetime of bragging rights.

What are your favorite must do’s at Universal Studios Florida experiences? Tell us in the comments below!

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, Universal Studios Travel Agency of the Year 2010, 2011, & 2012. She would love to help you plan your next Universal Orlando vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote.

Sneak Peek of Fast & Furious- Supercharged Coming to Universal Studios Florida

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