Preparations Underway: Walls Signal Start of Grand Floridian Lobby Work
Disney’s Grand Floridian lobby is now a construction zone as the multi-phase refurbishment project, announced earlier this year, gets underway. Construction walls are now in place throughout the main lobby, with the iconic birdcage area fully enclosed.
This construction signals the start of a significant renovation project aimed at refreshing the lobby of Disney’s Grand Floridian. Scheduled to continue through November 2025, the project encompasses updates to finishes and furnishings, as well as the exciting addition of a new Victorian-themed lobby bar.
Even with the ongoing lobby construction, guests at the Grand Floridian can still enjoy several seasonal favorites. The Grand Cottage treat shop remains open, offering its delightful house-made sweets and packaged goodies. Additionally, the annual Easter Egg display, featuring intricately hand-decorated chocolate eggs by Disney pastry chefs, is still available for viewing.
While the lobby is undergoing renovation, guests should be aware that traffic flow in the area may be adjusted, and some daytime noise is possible. Importantly, most of the resort’s amenities, including its various dining options and pools, will continue to operate as usual.
Fresh from Lucasfilm: An All-New Star Wars Theatrical Release
From Star Wars Celebration 2025 in Japan, Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy and Chief Creative Officer Dave Filoni today announced an exciting new theatrical release set within the Star Wars Galaxy. Titled “Star Wars: Starfighter,” the film is scheduled to open exclusively in theaters on May 28, 2027.
“Star Wars: Starfighter,” which will be directed by Shawn Levy and star Ryan Gosling, is a standalone adventure taking place approximately five years after the events of 2019’s “Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker.” The film, which will begin production this Fall, is an entirely new adventure featuring all-new characters set in a period of time that has not been explored on screen yet.
Levy is a director and producer of both film and television series, including “Deadpool & Wolverine” and “Stranger Things.”
Gosling most recently starred in the 2024 blockbuster “Barbie,” for which he received Oscar® and Golden Globe® nominations. Other credits include “La La Land,” “The Notebook,” and “Crazy Stupid Love.”
Dazzle Your Feet: The Pink Glitter Mickey Mouse Icon Crocs Have Arrived!
Oh my goodness, you guys have to see these! Seriously, prepare yourselves for some major sparkle because the Pink Glitter Mickey Mouse Icon Crocs are here, and they are everything. We’re talking a full-on explosion of hot pink glitter – I mean, who wouldn’t want that on their feet?
You can snag a pair of these sparkly wonders for $64.99, which, let’s be honest, is a small price to pay for this much fabulousness. They’re available right now at Magic Kingdom (if you’re lucky enough to be there!) and online at the Disney Store.
And the best part? They’re not just dazzling; they’re classic Crocs comfy! You know how it is, that lightweight feel and those little nubs that massage your feet with every step. But these aren’t your average Crocs. They’ve got the iconic Mickey Mouse perforations all over the top, so you can rep your favorite mouse wherever you go.
But wait, there’s more! Check out the heel strap, it’s not just a plain strap; it’s got these super cute 3D Mickey Mouse icon charms attached! Talk about taking your Disney style to the next level. Whether you’re strolling down Main Street U.S.A. at Magic Kingdom or just running errands around town, these pink beauties are guaranteed to turn heads and add a little bit of Disney magic to your day.
So, what are you waiting for? Go get your glitter on! Your feet will thank you, and you’ll be the envy of every Disney fan out there!
A Brew-tiful Souvenir: The Magic Kingdom Starbucks Tumbler with Mystery Pin Blind Pack!
Alright, buckle up, Disney and Starbucks fans, because there’s a new must-have in town! For just $49.99, you can snag the Magic Kingdom Starbucks Tumbler with Mystery Pin Blind Pack. Yep, you heard that right – it’s a two-for-one deal of Disney magic meets caffeine chic!
It’s available at Magic Kingdom and online at the Disney Store, so get yours and start sipping on the magic.
This isn’t your average tumbler, folks. It’s got this cool translucent, double-wall thing going on, and it’s decked out in these awesome “sticker”-style designs inspired by all the classic Magic Kingdom rides. We’re talking Cinderella Castle looking all majestic, the super cute Orange Bird, Dumbo soaring high, and even a blast off to Space Mountain! And guess what? The two mystery pins you get in the blind pack totally match that vibe.
Now, here’s where the real fun begins. Each pack comes with two random pins out of a possible eight! Can you imagine the thrill of opening it up and seeing which iconic attraction you scored? The whole series includes those I already mentioned, plus the groovy “it’s a small world”, the spooky Haunted Mansion bat stanchion (how cool is that?!), and the wildest ride in the wilderness, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.
Seriously, this set is perfect for sipping your Starbucks brew while you’re strolling down Main Street, U.S.A., or even just dreaming of your next Disney trip from home. Plus, with those mystery pins, you’ve got some awesome trading material for when you’re in the parks. It’s like they said, a total match made of magic! You can find this gem at Magic Kingdom itself and online at the Disney Store, so what are you waiting for? Go grab yours before they disappear!
Dreamy Pastels Meet Iconic Parks on New Walt Disney World Park Icons Pastel Tees!
Get ready to add a serious dose of springtime sweetness to your wardrobe! We just spotted the cutest new tees at Magic Kingdom, and they’re practically begging to come home with you. Seriously, these Walt Disney World Park Icons Pastel T-shirts are screaming “spring break” and “park days” all at once.
Imagine rocking a super soft tee in the dreamiest pastel shades. We’re talking a lovely light pink, a fresh mint green, a sunny orange, and a cheerful yellow – basically, the perfect palette to brighten up your Disney style this season. Each shirt features all four of our favorite park icons: the majestic Cinderella Castle, the spooky-chic Tower of Terror, the iconic Spaceship Earth, and the beautiful Tree of Life. They’re all lined up so nicely!
And it gets even better! Right above these iconic landmarks, you’ll find the classic Walt Disney World logo, making it clear where the magic happens. Then, to top it all off, the phrase “The most magical place on Earth” is printed at the bottom – because, let’s be real, it totally is. But wait, there’s a little hidden detail for the super Disney fans out there. If you peek closely, you’ll also spot the number “1971” tucked in there, a sweet little nod to the year Magic Kingdom first opened its gates.
These tees are seriously perfect for adding a touch of Disney magic to any park outfit. Whether you’re hitting up the rides, snapping those iconic photos, or just soaking in the atmosphere, these pastel beauties will have you looking and feeling ready for all the springtime fun.
Hong Kong Disneyland Unveils Delicious Delights for 20th Anniversary Celebration
Hong Kong Disneyland is gearing up for a truly magical (and utterly delicious) 20th Anniversary celebration, and they’re inviting you to savor every moment. To mark this momentous milestone, the resort is unleashing a spectacular array of 80 brand-new food and beverage items across the park and its hotels, promising a culinary adventure as enchanting as the park itself.
Starting June 28th, guests can dive headfirst into “The Most Magical Party of All” with a dazzling lineup of specialty treats crafted by the resort’s talented culinary teams. Prepare to be amazed by the creativity and attention to detail poured into each and every offering. Sweet sensations abound with whimsical delights like the adorable Duffy and Friends Fiesta Donut, a treat that’s almost too cute to eat (almost!). For those with a sweet tooth and a flair for the fabulous, the Party Glam Cotton Candy is sure to be an Instagram-worthy delight.
But the celebration isn’t just about snacks! Guests can also indulge in delightful dinner and tea sets, perfect for a more substantial celebratory meal. The Mickey and Friends Grand Tea Party Set promises a charming and delectable experience, ideal for sharing with loved ones. Let’s dive in to your delicious foodie guide for Hong Kong’s Anniversary!
Main Street Corner Cafe Hosted by Coca-Cola (Available starting June 28, 2025
Mickey and Friends Grand Tea Party Set: Set includes items such Mickey Party Cake, Goofy Lamington, Wagyu Beef Burger, Truffle Mushroom Tart and more (New)
Mickey and Friends Giant Sundae Party (New)
“Party Bubbles” Apple Peach Soda (non-alcoholic) (New)
20th Anniversary Party Champagne Flute with Piccolo Bottle of Moet and Chandon Imperial Brut (alcoholic) (New)
Main Street Bakery (Available starting June 28, 2025)
Duffy and Friends Fiesta Donut (New)
Duffy Caramel Mille Feuille (New)
StellaLou Taro Mille Feuille (New)
Crispy Cream Puff (New)
Cookie Crispy Cream Puff (New)
Pistachio Cream Caramel Croissant (New)
Smoked Salmon Croissant (New)
CookieAnn Mango Pineapple Soda (New)
Gelatoni Glacier Blue Orange Soda (New)
StellaLou Concord Grape and Lime Soda (New)
LinaBell Mixed Fruit Punch Soda (New)
Plaza Inn (Available starting June 28, 2025)
Magical Dreams Set Menu: Set includes items such as Braised Corn Thick Soup with Diced Seafood, Strawberry Aloe Pudding and more (New)
Royal Banquet Hall (Available throughout the celebration starting June 28, 2025)
Royal Party Family Party Feast: Set includes Roasted Family Chicken & BBQ Pork Ribs, Coleslaw, Waffle Fries, Signature BBQ Sauce and Party Cheesecake (New)
Duffy Chocolate Cupcake (New)
LinaBell Strawberry Cupcake (New)
CookieAnn Mango Passion Fruit Cupcake (New)
Minnie Vanilla Cherry Cupcake (New)
Mickey Chocolate Truffle Cupcake (New)
Donald Vanilla Blueberry Cupcake (New)
Goofy Pistachio Chocolate Cupcake (New)
Woody Pineapple Vanilla Cupcake (New)
“Party Bubbles” Cream Soda (non-alcoholic) (New)
Korean Ginseng Chicken Soup Combo – 20th Anniversary Edition
Clopin’s Festival of Foods (Available starting June 28, 2025)
Pineapple and Seafood Fried Rice with Pork Floss Combo – 20th Anniversary Edition
River View Cafe (Available starting June 28, 2025)
Beef Rendang with Coconut Rice Combo – 20th Anniversary Edition
“Party Bubbles” Cream Soda (non-alcoholic) (New)
Starliner Diner (Available starting June 28, 2025)
Hulk Double Beef Cheese Burger Combo – 20th Anniversary Edition
“Party Bubbles” Cream Soda (non-alcoholic) (New)
Explorer’s Club Restaurant (Available starting June 28, 2025)
“Party Bubbles” Apple Peach Soda (non-alcoholic) (New)
20th Anniversary Party Champagne Flute with Piccolo Bottle of Moet and Chandon Imperial Brut (alcoholic) (New)
Hong Kong Disneyland Resort Hotels
(Available starting June 28, 2025)
Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel
Crystal Lotus
20th Anniversary “Traditional Chinese Gastronomy” Dinner Menu: Menu includes items such as Double-Boiled Fish Maw Broth with Maitake Mushrooms and Conpoy, Braised Chicken with Abalone, Coconut and Cordyceps Flower, Tigger Maltose and Purple Potato Bun and more (New)
Walt’s Cafe
Mickey and Friends Afternoon Tea Party Set: Set includes items such as Celebration Cake, Pluto Mango and Caramel Mousse Cake, Salmon Tartar with Orange and Sour Cream Tart and more (New)
Walt’s Semi-Dinner Buffet Course: Beef Wellington, Salmon Coulibiac, Beef Tenderloin Pithivier or Lobster Vol Au Vent (New)
Disney Explorers Lodge
Dragon Wind
Double-Boiled 20 Delights Soup (New)
World of Color
Duffy and Friends Celebration Afternoon Tea: Set includes items such as LinaBell Yuzu and Guava Mousse Cake, Duffy Coffee Almond Tart, Beef Skewers with Garlic Aioli and Crispy Buffalo Chicken with Mini Waffle, and more (New)
Family Feast: 20th Anniversary Pizza, Farmers Market Grilled Charcuterie Board and Party Drink (New)
Chart Room Cafe
Coffee Chocolate Tart with Bergamot and Caramel Mousse (New)
Disney’s Hollywood Hotel
The Archivist (Available during December 6, 2025 to February 28, 2026 on weekend and public holidays only)
Ocean Medley: Fresh Lobster, Champagne Crab Leg, Abalone, Scallop Ceviche, Blue Mussel, Sea Shrimps, Sea Jade Whelk served with Cocktail Sauce and Thai Lime Sauce (New)
Available at Various Locations Throughout Resort Hotels
Dessert Assortment – 20th Anniversary Edition: Options include Guava and Green Apple Mouse Cake, Crispy Chocolate Mousse Cake, Macaron with Cheese and Passionfruit Filling Cream and more (New)
Lunch and Dinner Buffet Enchanted Garden at Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel, Ink & Plate at Disney’s Hollywood Hotel
“Chee-Eers” Special Beverage: Coconut milk, mint syrup, and pineapple juice (alcoholic) (New)
Walt’s Cafe and Grand Salon at Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel, World of Color at Disney Explorers Lodge
“Party Bubbles” Special Beverage: Prosecco, strawberry syrup and blue curacao liquor (alcoholic) (New)
Crystal Lotus, Walt’s Cafe and Grand Salon at Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel, Dragon Wind and World of Color at Disney Explorers Lodge, The Archivist at Disney’s Hollywood Hotel
“Toasting” Special Beverage: Campari, rum, pineapple juice, apple juice and blue curacao syrup (alcoholic) (New)
Walt’s Cafe and Grand Salon at Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel, World of Color at Disney Explorers Lodge, The Archivist at Disney’s Hollywood Hotel
“Let’s Celebrate” Special Beverage: Rum, orange juice, pineapple juice and blood orange syrup (alcoholic) (New)
Walt’s Cafe and Grand Salon at Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel, World of Color at Disney Explorers Lodge, The Archivist at Disney’s Hollywood Hotel
Offerings and Novelties Available Throughout Hong Kong Disneyland Resort
(Available starting June 28, 2025)
20th Anniversary Party Strawberry & Chocolate Cupcakes (New)
Party Glam Cotton Candy (New)
Fuji Apple Soft Serve (New)
Mickey and Friends Caramel & Banana Flavored Popcorn (New)
Duffy and Friends Caramel & Pineapple Flavored Popcorn (New) (Available starting January 1, 2026)
Mickey and Friends Party Tumbler (New)
Duffy and Friends Party Popcorn Bucket (New)
With these tasty adventures, the possibilities are endless when you visit Hong Kong Disneyland!
Disney Shares First Original Song from Villains Stage Show
Get ready to embrace your inner villain! Disney has offered a tantalizing glimpse into its upcoming stage spectacular, Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After, set to debut at Disney’s Hollywood Studios on May 27, 2025! A newly released behind-the-scenes video not only showcases the creative energy fueling the production but also treats fans to a first listen of one of the show’s original songs.
The sneak peek provides an exciting look at the development process, featuring insights from the talented team bringing this villain-centric show to life. Executive Creative Director Tom Vazzana aptly describes the experience of hearing live musicians interpret the score as “pure music magic.”
Music Arranger Tim Heintz reveals the core trio of iconic antagonists at the heart of the show: the wickedly fashionable Cruella de Vil, the swashbuckling Captain Hook, and the formidable Maleficent. Show Director Mark Renfrow hints at a fresh narrative approach, posing the intriguing question: “Which one of them has been treated the most unfairly ever after?” This suggests a storyline that delves deeper into the motivations and perspectives of these beloved baddies.
The music itself, as previewed in the video, appears to be a captivating blend of theatrical drama and mischievous fun, perfectly setting the stage for the villains’ tales. This original song offers a taste of the overall musical style and tone that guests can expect when the show premieres. Check out the video below to hear the first listen!
Adding another layer of intrigue, the video teases some exciting surprises in store for audiences at the Sunset Showcase venue. Notably, the Magic Mirror, traditionally a narrator, will take on a more prominent role, even performing an original song of its own. “This show is groundbreaking in that the Magic Mirror does more than just talk,” explains Music Producer Doug Morris. “He’s actually going to have a song of his very own.”
Composer Roger Butterley sheds light on the musical influences, describing the score as “a little bit rock and roll, a little bit of orchestra, classic Gothic score.” He enthusiastically promises that the show will be “just fun from start to finish.”
Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After promises to be an immersive experience, combining live music, dramatic lighting, captivating stage effects, and a unique audience-driven finale. This first taste of the original music only amplifies the anticipation for a show that aims to provide a fresh and entertaining perspective on some of Disney’s most unforgettable characters. Mark your calendars – a wickedly wonderful experience awaits at Disney’s Hollywood Studios this May!
Cereal-ously Sweet! Colorful New Shake Lands at Disney’s Pop Century Resort
Calling all sweet seekers and cereal lovers — there’s a brand-new treat at Walt Disney World that’s cereal-ously out of this world!
Say hello to the Fruit-Flavored Cereal Milkshake, now blending up bold flavors and childhood nostalgia at Everything POP Shopping & Dining inside Disney’s Pop Century Resort. Priced at just $7.99, this vibrant shake is a dreamy combo of:
Creamy vanilla shake
Blended fruit-flavored cereal
A swirl of strawberry
Topped with a fluffy strawberry-marshmallow whoopie pie
Finished with whipped cream and a classic cherry on top
It’s a colorful concoction that’s as much a dessert as it is a photo-op!
But wait — there’s sundae fun to be had, too. Launching alongside this sweet shake is the Ice Cream Truck Sundae, priced at $27.79. Sure, that’s a splurge, but it comes packed with:
Your choice of soft-serve
Chocolate sauce
Whipped cream
Rainbow sprinkles
Cherries
SNICKERS bar pieces
…and the star of the show: a take-home souvenir Mickey Ice Cream Truck!
The truck is as adorable as you’d expect — and Disney thoughtfully keeps the ice cream in a removable plastic container so your keepsake stays squeaky clean.
So whether you’re in it for fruity nostalgia or collectible cuteness, Pop Century is serving up sweet reasons to swing by.
🎉 Will you sip the cereal shake or ride off with the ice cream truck? Let us know your dessert destiny!
Universal Fan Fest Nights Debuts at Universal Studios Hollywood—Where Fandom Comes to Life!
Cosplayers, superfans, and pop culture aficionados, get ready to boldly go where no theme park event has gone before—because Universal Fan Fest Nights are officially warping into Universal Studios Hollywood! 🎭🎮🧙♂️
Running select nights from April 25 to May 18, 2025, this first-of-its-kind after-hours event invites guests to wear their fandom and step into the immersive worlds of Star Trek, Back to the Future, Dungeons & Dragons, ONE PIECE, Jujutsu Kaisen, plus beloved park favorites like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ and SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™.
Guests are encouraged to dress to impress in themed cosplay outfits that celebrate their favorite universes—just be sure to follow Universal’s Cosplay Costume Guidelines. While masks, props, and prosthetics have some limits, you can still channel your inner wizard, warrior, or warp-drive captain in style. Got more than one fandom in your heart? Attend multiple nights and switch up your look!
🛍️ Exclusive Merch Madness
Fan Fest Nights bring a galaxy of new limited-time merch collections, with something for every adventurer, time-traveler, and anime lover:
🚀 Star Trek: Red Alert – Beam up Starfleet gear, Tribble accessories, and even wearable Ceti eels (yes, really).
⏰ Back to the Future: Destination Hill Valley – Celebrate the film’s 40th anniversary with Marty’s puffer vest, rainbow hat, and iconic license plate collectibles.
🧙♂️ Dungeons & Dragons: Secret of Waterdeep – Load up on hoodies, bags of holding, and exclusive questing gear for every character class.
🏴☠️ ONE PIECE: Grand Pirate Gathering – Rock Luffy’s straw hat, Chopper gear, and collect pins, lunchboxes, and more.
👊 Jujutsu Kaisen: Hunger of the Cursed – Deck yourself out with plush hats, hoodies, and merch featuring all your favorite jujutsu sorcerers.
🪄 Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Wave a new Collector’s Edition Interactive Wand, munch popcorn from a Time-Turner bucket, and cuddle a Pygmy Puff or plush Occamy.
🦖 SUPER NINTENDO WORLD: Let’s Go Yoshi! – Celebrate everyone’s favorite green dino with colorful Yoshi-themed home goods, bags, and apparel.
Bonus: Many items are customizable with embroidery, engraving, and embossing so you can Make It You-niversal! 🧵✨
🎢 Attractions + Activations = Nerdvana
In addition to all the fandom-fueled activities, guests can enjoy select attractions throughout the park during Fan Fest Nights, including:
ESPN & Disney+ Go Bananas: Summer of Banana Ball Begins April 26
Buckle up, baseball fans—because the “Greatest Show in Sports” is swinging for the fences all summer long. ESPN and the Savannah Bananas are teaming up to deliver ten larger-than-life Banana Ball games, broadcast across ESPN, ESPN2, Disney+, and ESPN+ from April through August. 🍌⚾️
This isn’t your average baseball season. This is Banana Ball—a sport that blends high-energy competition with laugh-out-loud entertainment, dazzling dance moves, and rules that prioritize fun over foul balls.
Each game will air Friday or Saturday nights on ESPN or ESPN2 and simulcast live on Disney+ and ESPN+, giving fans nationwide front-row seats to the Bananas’ wild, crowd-pleasing antics. This marks a new era of exposure for Banana Ball, which first hit the national spotlight in 2020 and has been on a rocket-fueled rise ever since.
🏟️ Epic Stadium Stops
This summer’s lineup includes stops at some of the most iconic venues in sports. Here’s where you’ll catch the action:
April 26 – Memorial Stadium (Clemson) | Record-breaking 80,000+ fans expected!
May 10 – Nissan Stadium (Tennessee Titans)
June 7 – Bank of America Stadium (Carolina Panthers)
June 28 – Nationals Park (Washington D.C.)
July 5 – Fenway Park (Boston) – Primetime on ESPN!
July 26 – Citizens Bank Park (Philadelphia)
August 1 & 2 – Camden Yards (Baltimore) – First game in primetime!
August 9 – Coors Field (Denver)
August 15 – Guaranteed Rate Field (Chicago White Sox)
Talk about a bananas road trip. 🍌🚌
🎤 Meet the Teams & Talent
The Savannah Bananas will face off against familiar Banana Ball rivals: The Party Animals, The Firefighters, and The Texas Tailgaters. Bringing the action to life in the booth are fan-favorite commentators Josh Talevski and Biko Skalla, ready to explain the quirks of Banana Ball and capture every moment of madness.
This isn’t ESPN’s first dance with the Bananas. In 2022, the network dropped Bananaland, a five-part docuseries now streaming on ESPN+, that peeled back the curtain on the team’s meteoric rise. Since then, Banana Ball has taken center stage on ESPN8: The Ocho and carved out a growing, passionate fanbase.
Now, with games airing across Disney platforms and the upcoming Banana Ball Championship League launching in 2026, the future of fun-first baseball is brighter—and yellower—than ever.
So whether you’re in it for the epic catches, the choreographed celebrations, or just a chance to watch baseball like you’ve never seen it before, Banana Ball is must-watch TV this summer.
Catch the chaos. Feel the fun. And get ready to go bananas. 🍌
📺 First pitch: Saturday, April 26 at 7PM ET on ESPN2, Disney+, and ESPN+.
Game On! Construction Permit Filed for LEVEL99 at Disney Springs
Things are leveling up at Disney Springs—literally. Disney has officially filed the first construction permit for LEVEL99, signaling that work is about to begin at the former NBA Experience building on the West Side. 🎮🔨
This filing marks the first major step in transforming the long-vacant, 45,000-square-foot space into Florida’s first—and biggest—LEVEL99 location.
Submitted to Orange County, the permit is labeled “General Construction/Demo” and has been assigned to Adena Corporation, a frequent player in Disney construction projects. That means demolition and early transformation efforts should be getting underway very soon.
The filing follows the big February 2025 announcement that LEVEL99 would be coming to Disney Springs with a next-level interactive entertainment experience unlike anything else currently on property.
🎯 What is LEVEL99?
Part escape room, part physical challenge course, part social hotspot—LEVEL99 brings a fresh, fast-paced experience to Disney Springs. Here’s what’s in store once the doors open:
🧠 60+ Physical & Mental Challenge Rooms – Designed to test agility, logic, and teamwork.
⚔️ Arena Duels – Go head-to-head in competitive, adrenaline-pumping battles.
🍕 Chef-Driven Kitchen – Featuring signature Detroit-style pizza and more crave-worthy eats.
🍸 Two-Story Bar – Craft cocktails and local brews on tap in a vibrant social space.
👾 Room for 1,000 Players – It’s immersive, social, and seriously fun.
This innovative venue aims to blend team-based gameplay with immersive environments and high-quality dining, all under one roof.
⏳ When Will It Open?
There’s no official opening date yet, but with the first permit now in place, the transformation of the former NBA Experience space is finally moving from concept to construction. Expect updates (and probably a few sneak peeks) as the venue comes to life.
So if your idea of a great night out includes solving puzzles, tackling physical challenges, and sipping cocktails with friends—all without ever leaving Disney Springs—LEVEL99 is one to watch.
Epic Universe Preview Hours and Perks Revealed for Hotel Guests and Passholders
The countdown to the official opening of Universal Epic Universecontinues, and with Passholder previews in full swing, Universal Orlando has just dropped some important updates on park hours, hotel guest access, and Annual Passholder perks—including when you can enter the park and where you can score some sweet savings.
If you’re planning a trip during the preview period, mark your calendars:
Epic Universe is open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m during the preview period.
On Friday, April 25, the park will close early at 6:00 p.m.—so plan your epic day accordingly!
🏨 Early Entry for Universal Hotel Guests
Staying at one of Universal Orlando’s hotels? You’re in luck! Guests of all Universal Orlando hotels—including the in-park Helios Grand Hotel—can enter Epic Universe one hour early at 10:00 a.m. during the preview period.
🎢 Important note: Rides are not currently operating during this early entry hour, as the park is in technical rehearsal. But don’t be surprised if select attractions begin to open earlier as previews progress. As always with soft openings—subject to change!
🎟️ Annual Passholder Perks Take Epic to the Next Level
While Annual Passes for Epic Universe aren’t available just yet, Universal is rolling out the red carpet for Passholders during previews with a slew of perks across parking, dining, shopping, and more.
🚗 Parking Perks
Premier Passholders: Free Valet or Prime Self-Parking (after your first visit)
Preferred Passholders: Free regular self-parking, discounts on Prime, and 50% off Valet
Power Passholders: 50% off regular self-parking every visit
🍽️ Dining Discounts
Refuel for your next adventure with Passholder-exclusive discounts:
Premier Pass: 15% off
Preferred Pass: 10% off Valid at select Epic Universe restaurants like:
Toadstool Café™
Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant
Meteor Astropub
Mead Hall
Café L’air de La Sirène, and more!
🛍️ Shopping & Monster Makeovers
Time to stock up on souvenirs—and maybe a new monster persona:
Premier Passholders: 15% off
Preferred Passholders: 10% off At stores like:
Toothless’ Treasures
1-UP Factory™
Mario Motors™
Les Galeries Mirifiques
Pretorius’ Scientific Oddities
Plus, all Pass types get:
10% off the Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience
10% off VIP Tours, including inside Epic Universe
Discounts on Coca-Cola Freestyle® cups and My Universal Photos
A few standard Universal perks are not available at Epic Universe during previews:
Early Park Admission for Passholders
Express After 4 p.m. for Premier Passholders
Rumors have swirled that Express access could be added once the park officially opens, but Universal has noted Express after 4 pm will not be extended to Epic Universe.
And nope—Annual Passes specific to Epic Universe are not currently available, with no timeline yet announced for when the new park will join the rest of the Universal Orlando lineup for Pass sales.
Whether you’re gearing up for your first visit or making repeat runs through Celestial Park, these updates are a must-know for maximizing your preview experience. Stay tuned—we expect more surprises and announcements as Epic Universe prepares for its grand opening on May 22, 2025!
