5 New Additions to Universal Orlando in 2018 and Beyond

It’s been a huge year for Walt Disney World especially with the announcement made during this year’s D23 convention that a lot of new rides and attractions are set to be unveiled in the years ahead.   With all the focus placed squarely on the Mouse, its easily to lose sight of what’s been happening with Orlando’s other theme park juggernaut – Universal Orlando.  As a matter of fact, we think there’s a lot to get excited about when it comes to new rides, attractions and seasonal offerings at  Universal Orlando.  Here’s a run down of some of the upcoming additions that have us the most excited.

1. Christmas at Wizarding World of Harry Potter –  Universal really seems to be going from strength to strength but one area where they haven’t been able to compete with Disney’s is the Mouse’s massive Christmas-time celebrations.  However, it looks like Universal may soon become a contender with an announcement that starting on November 17,2017, Christmas will come to Wizarding World.  The celebrations will include decorations, special holiday entertainment, seasonal dining offerings and a projection show onto Hogwarts Castle.

Here’s a video that Universal released on the subject:

In addition Universal Orlando will also be running a new Universal Holiday Parade starring Macy’s with floats and balloons featuring much loved characters from films like Madagascar, Shrek and Despicable Me

2. Fast & Furious: Supercharged – Opening in Spring of 2018 this ride promises high-octane trills as you ride alongside some of your favorite Fast & Furious friends from Dom and Letty to Hobbs.  A similar ride opened at Universal Hollywood back in 2015 and though riders should not expect the same exact experience, it gives an idea of the amazing ride that’s in store.

Here’s the video from the Universal Hollywood:

3. Aventura Hotel –  Universal’s newest hotel is slated to open in August of 2018 next to Sapphire Falls Resort.  It promises views of all three Universal theme parks and will be the second Value Resort (next to Cabana Bay).  It will have a contemporary theme with over 600 rooms and will provide a combination of guest rooms and family suites.  Other features include a rooftop bar and the use of a tablet to control the air conditioning, lights and TV’s in your room.    For guests that like to plan ahead, Universal Orlando is currently offering a $50 Dining Credit for early bookers who stay for 4-nights or more.

4. Super Nintendo World – Speculation is that Super Nintendo World could be taking the place of Woody Woodpecker’s Kid’s Zone and opening at Universal as early as 2020.   With a similar project already announced for Universal Studios Japan, guests could presumably expect something comparable.  The land promises to be incredibly immersive with potential attractions including both Mario Kart and Donkey Kong rides.

5. New Harry Potter-themed Coaster –  The Universal community is abuzz this week with the news that Dragon Challenge will close to make way for a new Harry Potter themed thrill ride.  Guests can expect an attraction big on Harry Potter-theming and storytelling where they’ll encounter many of the characters from the books.  There aren’t a ton of details out there just now but the attraction is scheduled to open in 2019.

These are just some of the many new rides and attractions visitors to Orlando will get to enjoy in the  years ahead.  For a rundown of the new attractions coming to Walt Disney World, check out this article.

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Find articles like this helpful? Then why not consider working with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner? As an agent with MickeyTravels, I’ll be on hand to help you with everything from finding your perfect package to nabbing those hard-to-get dining and FastPass reservations and sharing tips and tricks to help you get the most out of your time at the parks.  Best of all my services are absolutely FREE. Get in touch at 1.800.801.4025  via email at mroden@mickeytravels.com  or follow along on Facebook.

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