Universal Orlando Resort Debuts New Summer Experiences Inspired by Famous Blockbuster Films

Universal Orlando Unveils Blockbuster Summer Lineup with JAWS, Spielberg, Minions & More

Universal Orlando Resort is rolling out the red carpet for summer, and this lineup is ready for its close-up. From May 23 through August 10, guests can step into a slate of limited-time movie-inspired experiences across the resort, including Spielberg-themed exhibits, new JAWS photo ops, Illumination’s Minions & Monsters offerings, returning nighttime spectaculars, CityWalk entertainment, hotel activities, and special ticket deals.

Related: Aerial View of the Refurbishment of Hogwarts Castle at Universal Orlando

At Universal Studios Florida, guests can explore Spielberg Summer Blockbusters, a limited-time exhibit celebrating the legendary filmmaker behind some of cinema’s most beloved films. The exhibit will include props and behind-the-scenes stories tied to iconic Spielberg projects, along with a look at Universal Pictures’ upcoming release Disclosure Day, which arrives in theaters June 12.

Things are also getting a little sharky this summer with new JAWS-inspired experiences at Universal Studios Florida. Guests will be able to strike their best Amity Island pose with a series of interactive photo ops inspired by the classic thriller. The celebration will also include specialty “bites” and drinks, plus a new parks-exclusive merchandise collection featuring limited-release apparel, accessories, and more. Sounds like summer just got a bigger boat.

Illumination fans will also have plenty to go bananas over with new Minions & Monsters experiences inspired by the upcoming film. Guests can check out interactive photo ops featuring two new Minions from the movie, Henry and James, along with special menu items at Minion Cafe. New treats include Irene’s Creamsicle Cheesecake Fold Over and Monster Marshmallow Lemonade. Parks-exclusive merchandise will also be available, including Minions & Monsters blind box collectible figures and a shoulder pal of Goomi, one of the film’s new characters.

Over at Universal CityWalk, the Summer Movie Series will bring classic Universal films back to the big screen on select dates from June 20 through August 26 at Universal Cinemark. The lineup includes favorites like Back to the Future, JAWS, E.T. – The Extra-Terrestrial, and more. A movie ticket is required.

Several fan-favorite seasonal offerings are also returning this summer. Universal Mega Movie Parade will once again bring films like E.T., Back to the Future, JAWS, Ghostbusters, Jurassic World, Minions, Sing, Trolls, and Kung Fu Panda to life with more than a dozen floats, nearly 100 performers, and special effects. CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular will return to Universal Studios Florida with a nighttime lagoon show packed with iconic movie music and cinematic moments. Over at Islands of Adventure, Hogwarts Always returns to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade on May 30, lighting up Hogwarts castle with a projection show celebrating a school year at Hogwarts.

The summer fun does not stop inside the parks. Guests staying at Universal Orlando hotels will find larger-than-life sand sculptures across all 11 hotels, inspired by popular characters and stories. Summer-themed beverages will also be available for purchase throughout the hotel portfolio. Hotel guests can also enjoy exclusive character meet-and-greets inside Universal Studios Florida every Saturday and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Universal CityWalk will have its own summer slate as well. From June 11 through July 19, guests can watch major soccer games at NBC Sports Grill & Brew, complete with specialty food and beverage offerings, live entertainment, and more. Red Coconut Club will host Re(d)tro Nights on select nights from May 8 through July 18, bringing an 80s and 90s overlay with arcade games, photo ops, and a DJ spinning throwback hits. CityWalk will also host a Summer Music Series every Saturday night from June 20 through August 15, featuring themed genre experiences like Broadway, Legends of Rock, EDM, and more.

Universal Orlando will also celebrate Independence Day with resort-wide festivities on July 4, including character meet-and-greets, live DJs, entertainment, and special pyrotechnics.

Related: Your Ultimate Guide to Dark Universe at Universal Epic Universe

To help guests plan a summer getaway, Universal is offering several special deals. Florida residents can take advantage of a Buy a Day, Get a 2nd Day Free offer on a 1-Day Park-to-Park Ticket, giving them two days of access to Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure for the price of one day. Florida residents can also save up to 25% on stays at participating Universal Orlando Resort hotels.

U.S., Canadian, and Latin American residents can also get extra park time with a Buy a 3-Day Base or Park-to-Park Ticket, Get 2 Days Free offer. This deal gives guests five days of access to Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure, and Universal Epic Universe for the price of a 3-day ticket.

Universal Orlando Annual and Seasonal Passholders can save up to 30% at participating Universal Orlando hotels this summer. Passholders can also enjoy in-park perks like a dedicated viewing area for the Universal Mega Movie Parade, exclusive food and beverage items, and more.

With JAWS, Spielberg, Minions, Hogwarts, movie nights, parades, pyrotechnics, and plenty of summer snacks in the mix, Universal Orlando is turning the season into one big blockbuster. Cue the popcorn, because this summer is ready to roll.

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