Universal Highlights Epic Universe’s Role in Economic Growth and Job Creation

By

-

April 11, 2025

Universal Highlights Epic Universe's Role in Economic Growth and Job Creation

Epic Universe, Epic Impact: Universal’s New Park Powers Job Creation and Economic Growth Nationwide

With the opening of Epic Universe just around the corner on May 22, 2025, Universal Destinations and Experiences (UDX) is not just delivering next-level thrills—it’s fueling an economic engine with national reach. The most ambitious and technologically advanced theme park ever developed, Epic Universe will double the footprint of Universal Orlando Resort, setting the stage for a new era of innovation, tourism, and opportunity in Florida and across the United States.

A Game-Changer for Florida and Beyond

The development of Epic Universe is transforming Central Florida into a weeklong vacation destination. With three immersive theme parks, one water park, 11 hotels (including three new ones at Epic Universe), and a vibrant dining and entertainment district at CityWalk, the expansion positions Universal Orlando Resort as a premier global vacation hub.

And the ripple effects are massive. According to an economic analysis by UCF economist Dr. Sean Snaith, Epic Universe is generating:

Thousands of new jobs, both on-site and across surrounding communities. For every 1,000 jobs created within the park, another 700 off-site jobs are stimulated in the Orlando area.
$386 million in state and local taxes in its first year.
$120 million in property taxes and $500 million in sales tax revenue.
$230 million invested into public infrastructure improvements.
$13 million in tourism development taxes from increased visitor traffic.

National Investments, Local Impact

From 2018 to 2024, Comcast NBCUniversal has invested more than $10 billion in Universal parks across California, Florida, Texas, and Nevada, solidifying UDX as one of the six core growth drivers for the company. Today, UDX supports over 45,000 jobs nationwide and works with thousands of suppliers, local businesses, and community organizations to drive long-term, sustainable growth.

In Florida alone, the Universal Orlando Foundation has contributed nearly $70 million in grants, donations, and programming between 2019 and 2023—supporting job training, skills development, and expanding access to opportunity across the region.

Details Revealed for Universal Horror Unleashed Year-Round Haunted Houses coming to Las Vegas 3

Universal Expands Across the U.S.

The excitement doesn’t stop in Orlando. UDX is pushing boundaries and expanding its parks business in bold new ways:

Universal Horror Unleashed – Las Vegas (2025): A permanent, year-round horror experience bringing Universal’s iconic monsters and terrifying thrills to life in Sin City.
Universal Kids Resort – Frisco, Texas (2026): A first-of-its-kind theme park designed specifically for families with young children. Featuring lands inspired by Shrek, Trolls, Minions, Gabby’s Dollhouse, SpongeBob SquarePants, and Jurassic World, this resort will also include a 300-room hotel integrated into the experience.
Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift – Universal Studios Hollywood: The first high-speed outdoor roller coaster in the park’s history, bringing the Fast & Furious franchise to life in a bold new way.
DreamWorks Land – Universal Studios Florida: Now open and delighting guests with attractions based on Kung Fu Panda, Trolls, and Shrek, this land adds even more family fun to the park.

A Universe of Opportunity

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a local business owner, or a job-seeker, Epic Universe represents more than just a new theme park—it’s a powerful catalyst for economic development and creative innovation. As UDX continues to invest in world-class destinations, it’s creating unforgettable experiences for guests and real opportunities for communities.

Universal Orlando Shares Sneak Peek at the Food & Beverages Coming to Epic Universe

By

Chris B

-

April 11, 2025

Universal Orlando Shares Sneak Peek at the Food & Beverages Coming to Epic Universe

Epic Eats: A Tasty First Look at the Food & Beverage Lineup at Universal Epic Universe

Universal Orlando’s upcoming Epic Universe theme park is promising a feast for the senses—and now we’ve got a delicious deep dive into exactly what’s cooking! Thanks to the latest episode of the Discover Universal podcast, we now have an extensive preview of the culinary experiences waiting for guests when the park opens on May 22, 2025. With themed lands, immersive storytelling, and a food lineup that’s anything but ordinary, Epic Universe is shaping up to be a foodie paradise.

Here’s a land-by-land breakdown of what to expect on your gastronomic adventure:

🌌 Celestial Park: A Universe of Flavor

🍕 Pizza Moon

Described by Chef Jens Dahlmann as a “pizza church,” this out-of-this-world pizzeria will serve up fire-roasted pies with a unique spin.
Highlights include an ube crust pizza and a wild mushroom pizza with truffle aioli.

🐉 Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant

A neon-lit eatery inspired by Asian street food scenes with dishes pulling from Chinese, Japanese, Thai, Korean, and more.
Must-tries: Double fried Korean chicken wings and snowflake potstickers.
Yes, there will be soup dumplings!

🌊 Atlantic Restaurant

Seafood-forward and elegant, with a dining room set inside a massive, early 1900s-style aquarium.
Standouts include Prince Edward Island mussels and a show-stopping sea bass with carrot mochi and lemongrass broth.
Steak, chicken, and vegan options ensure there’s something for everyone.

🔥 Oak & Star Tavern

Dubbed a “celestial roadhouse,” this smokehouse features both smoked and grilled meats, inspired by global BBQ traditions.
Brisket smoked for 14 hours, giant smokers on site, and a rustic vibe make this a meat lover’s dream.

🍔 Meteor Astro Pub

Think elevated burgers and fried chicken sandwiches, but in a stunning gastropub setting.
Everything from the Angus beef patties to the buns and bread are made from scratch daily.

🌭 Comet Dogs (Food Cart)

Gourmet hot dogs like the birria hot dog with pineapple salsa verde, plus plenty of other creative builds.
Quick, walkable bites with galactic flair.

🧛‍♂️ Dark Universe: Horror on a Plate

🩸 Das Stakehaus

A vampiric dining hall with blood-red floors and dark humor baked into the menu.
Signature dishes include steak on a stake, jet-black chicken wings, and the terrifyingly tasty Red Velvet Death (a red velvet coffin-shaped cake with “maggots” made of puffed rice).
Bonus: a panna cotta shaped like a brain!

🧄 Burning Blade Tavern

A cozy hunter’s hideaway nestled under the iconic windmill, serving hearty snacks like charred baked potatoes with bacon and spice—perfect with a pint.

🐉 How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk: Viking Feasts Await

🍗 Mead Hall

The heart of Berk’s culinary experience—expect grilled salmon, roasted root veggies, and turkey wings the size of a dragon claw.
Inspired by Nordic cuisine and movie moments, Hiccup’s pastrami-seasoned salmon with dill sauce is a standout.

🧀 Hooligan’s Grog & Gruel

Home to the viral-worthy mac & cheese cones—fluffy house-baked bread stuffed with cheesy goodness.
Flavors range from classic mac with Goldfish crackers to pulled pork-topped cones.

🔥 Spit Fyre Grill

Customizable grain bowls and salads featuring fresh grilled meats for a lighter, walkable option.

🍄 Super Nintendo World: Power-Up Your Plate

🍔 Toadstool Café

Get ready for Mario and Luigi burgers, a Piranha Plant Caprese salad, and themed dishes straight out of the Mushroom Kingdom.

🪄 Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic: Magical Meals in Paris

🥐 Café L’air de la Sirène

A Parisian brasserie serving classical French fare in a lavish setting.
Menu highlights include croque monsieur, chicken provençal, salade niçoise, and breakfast pain au chocolat.

🍰 Featured Treat: Butterbeer Crêpe

Exclusive to Epic Universe, this new Butterbeer treat is filled with cookie butter and Bavarian cream, topped with Butterbeer foam, strawberries, and shortbread.

🥩 Gobelet Noir

A moody tavern inspired by Grindelwald’s Austrian roots.
Expect hearty fare like schnitzels, smoked sausages, dumpling soup, and Black Forest cake.

📱 Yes, You Can Mobile Order!

Mobile ordering will be available at 8 of the 10 direct-to-table restaurants and many food carts, making it easier than ever to snack and stroll.

With over a dozen dining locations, eight bars, and 10 food carts—plus a focus on scratch-made bread, house-crafted desserts, and immersive environments—Epic Universe isn’t just a theme park. It’s a food destination. So bring your appetite (and maybe stretchy pants), because starting May 22, 2025, Universal is taking theme park dining to a whole new galaxy. 🌌🍽️

Universal Trademarks ‘Halloween Horror Nights’ in U.K.

By

Chris B

-

April 11, 2025

Universal Trademarks ‘Halloween Horror Nights’ in U.K.

Could Halloween Horror Nights Be Coming to the UK? Universal’s Recent Trademark Raises Spooky Speculation

A recent discovery on the UK Trade Mark online database is sending chills of excitement through horror fans across the pond: Universal has officially trademarked the name Halloween Horror Nights in the United Kingdom. As Universal gears up to construct its first-ever theme park and resort in the UK, the timing of this registration is raising eyebrows—and hopes.

Halloween Horror Nights Begins on August 29th, 2025 at Universal Orlando 2

According to trademark records, Universal City Studios LLC filed for the UK trademark (Trade Mark Number: UK00003845820) on November 3, 2022. The trademark was officially registered on March 17, 2023, and covers an extensive list of goods and services ranging from downloadable media, clothing, and toys to Halloween costumes and event-related merchandise. The registration is valid through 2032.

While the trademark itself doesn’t confirm that Halloween Horror Nights is headed to the upcoming UK theme park, it’s certainly a clue that something spooky could be in the works. Universal’s annual Halloween Horror Nights event is a world-renowned, scream-inducing celebration of all things haunted, taking over parks in Orlando, Hollywood, and beyond each fall. Bringing this signature event to the UK would be a fang-tastic move for British thrill-seekers and horror lovers alike.

It’s also possible that the trademark is simply a protective step for merchandise and branding related to the iconic Halloween event—ensuring that Universal can sell everything from haunted house T-shirts to collectible masks and themed toys once the park opens.

Still, given the recent confirmation that Universal is officially building a resort and theme park in Bedford, England, the idea of a full-fledged Halloween Horror Nights experience debuting in the UK is no longer just a ghost of a dream. Whether it’s gory mazes, chilling scare zones, or terrifying live shows, fans will be keeping a close eye on future announcements for more treats—and hopefully, a few tricks.

For now, the trademark is officially in place… and the speculation begins. Will Halloween Horror Nights rise from the fog in the UK? Only time will tell—but horror fans are already screaming for more. 👻🎃

Special Edition Pastel Plush Collection Coming to the Disney Store on Monday

By

Sara

-

April 11, 2025

Sweet Arrivals! Special Edition Pastel Plush Coming to Disney Store Monday

Plush lovers in North America, get ready! DisneyStore.com is bringing the magic of Disney Store Japan to you with a special edition Pastel Plush collection dropping on Monday, April 14th at 8 a.m. PST. For the first time ever, you’ll also have the chance to snag those incredibly popular plush keychains you’ve been seeing online – they’re finally coming to DisneyStore.com!

2025-DCP-Japan-China-Keychains-Products (2)

We’re super excited for the keychains! They are a great way to get your plush fix without taking up much space. You can get all the cuteness of the medium and small-sized plush bundled up into mini 5-inch keychain versions that are perfect nestled at home with your other stuffed animals or attached to your favorite accessory while you’re on the go.

2025-DCP-Japan-China-Keychains-Products (4)

The pastel plushies and keychains also look as sweet as can be when characters are paired together, like the mischievous chipmunk duo Chip and Dale. And don’t even get me started on the fact that this collection includes both Thumper and Miss Bunny—an adorable Disney couple I absolutely need more of in my life!

2025-DCP-Japan-China-Keychains-Products (1)

The collection also features Dumbo, Marie, Stitch, and Winnie the Pooh as both medium plush and keychains, so you can pick your favorite character and plush style from the bunch. Though, no judgment if you just can’t resist and find yourself getting them all!

Will you be adding one (or more) of these plush characters to your collection?

Themes Revealed for 2026 Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend

By

Sara

-

April 11, 2025

Get Ready to Run! 2026 Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend Themes Are Here

Get ready to smile and “Celebrate Happy” with runDisney at the Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend presented by Honda, January 29–February 1, 2026. Adding to the joy, this race weekend coincides with the 70th anniversary of the Disneyland Resort, promising a celebration of all things delightful at the Happiest Place on Earth.

Themes Revealed for 2026 Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend

Disneyland 5K presented by Honda

On January 30, join Joy from Disney and Pixar’s Inside Out films to “Celebrate Joy” during your 3.1 miles!

Disneyland 10K presented by Honda

On January 31, get ready for 6.2 magical miles with Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey as you “Celebrate Imagination!”

Disneyland Half Marathon presented by Honda

On February 1, “Celebrate Togetherness” during 13.1 miles of “it’s a small world” wonders — be sure to bring a friend!

Dumbo Double Dare presented by Honda

You can also “Celebrate Achievement” with Dumbo and earn an extra medal by finishing both the 10K and the half marathon for a total of 19.3 miles!

runDisney Kids Races

Kids 9 and under can “Celebrate Laughter” on January 31 as they jump into exciting runs featuring Stitch, a.k.a., Experiment 626.

Disneyland Yoga presented by Honda

Get ready to stretch and “Celebrate Smiles” on January 29 during a morning yoga session with the magnificent Miss Piggy in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle.

Runners wanting to join for the 2026 event should mark their calendars for the following registration dates:

Club runDisney | April 22, 2025
General Registration | April 29, 2025

Ready to plan your next visit to Disneyland for a runDisney event? Contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are free, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation.

Disney Shares First Look at Grand Floridian Lobby Renovation

By

Sara

-

April 10, 2025

Disney Shares Initial Look at Grand Floridian Lobby Transformation

Since 1988, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, near Magic Kingdom, has charmed guests with its Victorian elegance and tribute to Florida’s grand seaside hotels. Honoring this unique theming and Disney hospitality, the current lobby renovation completes the resort’s multi-year refurbishment, which included updated guest rooms and refreshed dining like the Michelin-starred Victoria & Albert’s.

Disney Shares First Look at Grand Floridian Lobby Renovation

Coming Soon: Grand Floridian Lobby Bar  

There’s something special about walking into the Grand Floridian—the soft piano music, glowing chandeliers, and aromatic floral arrangements create a luxurious, yet relaxing atmosphere. And soon, guests will be able to take in this ambiance with a refreshing beverage in hand, thanks to the new lobby bar! 

Inspired by the lobby’s iconic birdcage, the bar will pay tribute to the resort’s Victorian roots with intricate woodwork, stained glass, and brass accents. You may even spot colorful birds in the stained glass and murals throughout the atrium! Opposite the bar, guests will still find the Victorian cage-style elevator that fans know and love. 

New Look, Same Grand Feel  

The surrounding lobby, staircase and front desk will be refreshed with a mix of botanical accents and inviting colors to create an airy, garden-like atmosphere.  

Disney Imagineers are approaching this refurbishment with great care and focus in maintaining the heart and story of the Grand Floridian, while adding fresh new life to the lobby for guests to enjoy.   

As shown in the new rendering, the lobby will feature beautiful new carpeting with Victorian-inspired borders and scrollwork featuring hand-drawn florals inspired by turn-of-the-century botanical studies. Updated furnishings will blend rich finishes and brass accents with cozy, welcoming fabrics–plus a few playful touches inspired by Florida’s natural beauty and Victorian decorating trends.  

Ready to book your next stay at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort? Contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are free, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation.

Royal Fun on the Go! Disney Princess Play Sets You’ll Love

By

Ana Leal

-

April 10, 2025

Royal Fun on the Go! Disney Princess Play Sets You’ll Love

Okay, so you know how the Disney Store always has the cutest stuff? Well, guess what? They’ve got these totally adorable Disney Princess Play Sets that are just begging for some imaginative playtime!

Seriously, these little sets are part of their “Once Upon a Story” collection, which is all about letting your inner storyteller shine. And the best part? Each one will only set you back $24.99! You can snag ’em online right now.

Let’s dive into the magic, shall we? First up, we’ve got Rapunzel’s Tower Micro Play Set. Can you just picture it? A tiny tower complete with all sorts of little furniture and accessories that look straight out of the movie. And the figurines? They’re all sculpted, so they’re super detailed. But get this – when playtime’s over, the whole thing turns into a cute little carry-all with a sparkly handle! Talk about easy peasy cleanup and perfect for taking the fairytale fun on the road. Rapunzel’s tower is just waiting for some dreaming and adventuring, whether you’re at home or out and about.

Next on the royal lineup is Jasmine’s Palace Micro Play Set. Just like Rapunzel’s set, this one comes with its own detailed palace and a bunch of tiny furniture and accessories to bring Jasmine’s world to life. You get those adorable little sculpted figures too, ready for all sorts of Arabian adventures you can dream up. And yep, you guessed it – this one also folds up into a handy carry-all with a glittery handle. So, whether you’re chilling at home or off on a magic carpet ride (in your imagination, of course!), Jasmine’s palace is ready for some enchanting fun.

But wait, there’s more! Belle’s Cottage Micro Play Set is also in the mix. This one brings all the cozy vibes of Belle’s little home, complete with those sweet little furniture pieces and accessories you’d expect. Of course, you get the super cute sculpted figures to play with. And just like the others, it cleverly transforms into a carry-all with that signature sparkly handle. So, re-enact your favorite scenes or creating new stories, Belle’s cottage is the perfect spot for some heartwarming playtime, wherever you are.

And for all the little mermaid fans out there, there’s Ariel’s Palace Micro Play Set! Dive into her underwater world with this detailed palace and a bunch of tiny treasures – the furniture and accessories are just too cute! You get those adorable sculpted figures of Ariel and her pals, ready for all sorts of under-the-sea escapades your imagination can conjure. And you know the drill by now – it folds up into a convenient carry-all with a glittering handle. So, make waves on the go, Ariel’s palace is set for some fin-tastic fun.

Last but not least, we’ve got Snow White’s Cottage Micro Play Set. This one brings all the charm of the seven dwarfs’ cozy little home, complete with all the miniature furniture and accessories you’d expect. And of course, you get those sweet little sculpted figures, ready for all sorts of forest adventures and maybe even a visit from a certain apple-loving queen! And just like all the others, it neatly packs away into a carry-all with a sparkly handle.

Oh, and I almost forgot! For all the Frozen fanatics, there’s the Anna and Elsa Arendelle Castle Micro Play Set! You can bring the magic of Arendelle home with this detailed castle, complete with all sorts of tiny furniture and accessories fit for royalty. You get those adorable sculpted figures of Anna and Elsa, ready for all sorts of snowy adventures and sisterly fun. And yes, it also transforms into a handy carry-all with a glittery handle.

Seriously, these Disney Princess Play Sets sound like a total win-win. They’re cute, they’re detailed, and they pack up for easy storage and travel. Plus, at $24.99 each, they won’t break the bank. If you’ve got a little Disney fan in your life (or, let’s be honest, even if you’re a big kid at heart!), you might want to check these out online at the Disney Store. Happy playing!

Credit: Disney Store

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort Gingerbread House Not Returning for 2025

By

Chip

-

April 10, 2025

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort Gingerbread House Not Returning for 2025

Grand Floridian Gingerbread Display on Hiatus for 2025 Holiday Season Due to Lobby Refurbishment

Disney has confirmed that the annual gingerbread display at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa will not return for the 2025 holiday season due to its impending lobby refurbishment.

Work on the lobby is set to begin on Monday, April 14th, and will continue throughout 2025. Among these changes will be new carpeting, updated furnishings, and a new lobby bar.

As a result of these renovations, the gingerbread display will not be available during the 2025 holiday season. The Grand Floridian gingerbread house just celebrated its 25th year at Walt Disney World in 2024.

However, all resort pools and dining locations will remain open as work is completed.

Get Your Tickets! The Mickey and Friends Circus Backpack is Coming to Town

By

Ana Leal

-

April 10, 2025

Get Your Tickets! The Mickey and Friends Circus Backpack is Coming to Town

You have to see this new Loungefly mini backpack dropping exclusively at BoxLunch.com. Seriously, it’s a total showstopper – the Mickey Mouse and Friends Circus Backpack! And get this, you can snag it for $79.90, but it’s a pre-order situation right now, so you gotta get in line!

This backpack is bringing some serious big top vibes to your style. We’re talking an awesome applique of Mickey and the gang all decked out in their circus best. But wait, there’s more! The front pocket is designed like a whole circus tent, complete with actual fabric panels and even rope details. How cool is that?

And because Loungefly always brings the sparkle, this little gem has metallic stars and trim that’ll catch everyone’s eye. Plus, those adjustable striped backpack straps? They’re not just comfy, they totally nail that classic circus look. Honestly, if you’re planning a day out with your own amazing crew, this bag is the perfect sidekick. You’re gonna want to jump on this pre-order ASAP!

Credit: BoxLunch Gifts

Vintage Vibes Alert! New Mickey Car Wash Tee at Disney World!

By

Ana Leal

-

April 10, 2025

Vintage Vibes Alert! New Mickey Car Wash Tee at Disney World!

You guys are not going to believe the awesome find we stumbled upon at Hollywood Studios! Seriously, we were just wandering around, soaking up the Disney vibes, and then you see it, a Mickey Car Wash tee, and it was an instant “add to cart” situation.

This isn’t your run-of-the-mill Disney shirt, okay? It’s got this super cool, almost vintage feel to it, like it’s been hanging around since Mickey’s been driving those classic cars. And the design? Pure gold! Picture this: Mickey Mouse himself, totally in his element, working at a car wash. He’s even holding this bright red car that looks so shiny you could practically see your reflection in it.

But wait, there’s more! Right there on the shirt, it proudly says “Mickey’s Car Wash” up top in this fun, retro font. And get this – along the bottom, it reads “Wash ‘n Wax” and then, get ready for it, “Get the white glove treatment!” How hilarious and perfect is that? It’s like Mickey’s going the extra mile to make sure your ride is sparkling clean. If you’re a Disney fan who loves a bit of quirky, vintage charm, you absolutely need this tee in your collection. Trust us, you’ll be getting compliments left and right!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Chip and Company (@chipandco)

All Aboard the S’mores Monorail Brownie from Disney’s Contemporary Resort

By

Catherine

-

April 10, 2025

All Aboard the S’mores Monorail Brownie from Disney's Contemporary Resort

Try the S’mores Monorail Brownie at Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Disney World is a land of magic, thrills, and, let’s be honest, incredible snacks. On our recent journey through the parks and resorts, we stumbled upon a treat that satisfied our sweet tooth! The S’mores Monorail Brownie from the Contempo Cafe at Disney’s Contemporary Resort is a must try on your next visit.

Nestled within the sleek, modern architecture of the Contemporary, the Contempo Cafe is a quick-service gem known for its delicious and often whimsically themed pastries. And this brownie? It’s a perfect example of that delightful Disney touch.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Chip and Company (@chipandco)

For just $5.99, you can get this chewy chocolate brownie topped with a delightful toasted marshmallow frosting. The charming finishing touch? A white chocolate monorail. It’s a delicious and photo-worthy snack that perfectly blends classic s’mores flavors with Disney magic. All aboard for sweetness!

This treat is a must-try on your next visit to Disney’s Contemporary Resort. So, next time you find yourself near Bay Lake, be sure to hop aboard the S’mores Monorail Brownie – your taste buds will thank you for the ride!

Track Completed at Universal Studios Hollywood for New ‘Fast & Furious’ Coaster

By

Chris B

-

April 10, 2025

Track Completed at Universal Studios Hollywood for New ‘Fast & Furious’ Coaster

Universal Studios Hollywood Completes Track for “Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift” Coaster

The race is almost ready to begin! According to a new report from KTLA, Universal Studios Hollywood has officially completed track installation for its all-new roller coaster, Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift. This high-octane thrill ride marks a major milestone for the park, as it will be Universal Studios Hollywood’s first-ever high-speed outdoor coaster—and it’s already revving up major excitement.

Universal promises this won’t be your typical coaster. Hollywood Drift will feature cutting-edge technology that’s never before been used in a roller coaster, immersing guests deep into the Fast & Furious universe with all the intensity and adrenaline of the blockbuster films. Riders will launch from the Upper Lot and dive into the Lower Lot, navigating a dynamic course of banked turns, inversions, and a showstopping loop around the iconic Starway escalators.

What sets this attraction apart is the innovation behind the ride vehicles. Each coaster car will be able to rotate 360 degrees, simulating the signature drifting action that defines the Fast & Furious franchise. It’s a fully immersive, high-speed chase where you’ll feel like you’re part of the crew.

The ride’s experience begins even before you buckle in. The queue will wind through a bold, red-brick garage-style building on the Upper Lot, designed to echo the gritty street-racing garages seen in the films. The ride vehicles themselves will be modeled after the souped-up, street-legal speed machines fans know and love.

While Universal hasn’t pinned down an exact opening date yet, they’ve confirmed Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift will debut in 2025. In the meantime, the park is already addressing concerns about the potential for noise from the coaster. To minimize disruption to nearby neighborhoods, Universal has implemented several features: the ride’s spinning cars are designed to rotate away from residential areas during high-energy moments, the track is filled with pea gravel to muffle sound, and two half-pipe shields will help contain the screams of thrill-seekers.

With construction hitting this major milestone, the countdown is officially on. Get ready to buckle up—Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift is set to take Universal Studios Hollywood guests on a ride like never before.