UniversalParksBlog News for March 3rd, 2024
Universal Orlando Resort finally confirmed details about its “new” themed land.
We’ll discuss everything we just learned in UniversalParksBlog News.
Welcome to DreamWorks Land
On January 16th, 2023, Universal Studios Florida confirmed that it would close the entirety of the former Woody Woodpecker’s KidZone.
Universal had built this themed land in 1998 for an opening in 1999.
The area’s signature attraction was Woody Woodpecker’s Nuthouse Coaster.
Photo: Universal Orlando
However, the former KidZone featured countless interactive elements designed to entertain children during a park visit.
During the earliest days of Universal Studios Florida, the most oft-recited criticism was that it skewed too adult.
That was a feature, not a bug, but Universal executives dutifully addressed the complaint with KidZone.
The easily recognizable problem, even at the time, was that late 1990s kids weren’t that into Woody Woodpecker.
That concern grew in recent years as an entire generation of kids didn’t grow up with Woody Woodpecker and Curious George.
What they did recall from their youth were films like Shrek and other DreamWorks Animation titles.
Photo: Airbnb
So, Universal officials made the hard call early last year to end Kidzone.
We’ve known for a while that DreamWorks Land would replace the old space.
This past week, Universal finally confirmed everything we can expect at the new themed (well, recently re-themed) land.
Photo: Airbnb
Just as importantly, Universal revealed the date for the opening of DreamWorks Land.
While park officials didn’t state a specific date, they indicated that the themed land will debut this summer. And it’s already March!
Photo: Airbnb
As a reminder, Universal took a similar approach to Minion Land, which debuted in August 2023.
I suspect that the DreamWorks Land “summer opening” will occur much sooner.
What to Expect at DreamWorks Land
Folks, from now on, you must get used to saying Trollercoaster as if it’s a real thing.
That’s the primary takeaway from Universal’s announcement.
They finally settled on Trollercoaster as a name despite my public pleading to the contrary.
Photo:uofanguide.com
Okay, I’m mostly joking, but that is the official name of the roller coaster themed to the Trolls film franchise.
Universal has redesigned elements of the Woody Woodpecker coaster to modernize it a touch and make it more accessible.
Modern audiences know that Justin Timberlake/Anna Kendrick movie a LOT more than Woody Woodpecker.
Photo: Airbnb
Universal posted a news release regarding the plans for DreamWorks Land. Here’s a quote:
“The expansive area will feature tons of fun for the entire family and include a family-friendly coaster, multiple interactive play areas, live entertainment, character meet and greets, and more…”
Photo: Universal
One of the signature aspects of the new themed land is Shrek’s Swamp, which hosts Shrek’s 35-foot-tall cottage.
Shrek, Fiona, and Donkey will all host character greetings here, which is a recurring theme at DreamWorks Land.
Many of the interactions here will involve kids interacting with their favorite characters.
In fact, Gabby from Gabby’s Dollhouse will take up a permanent residence here as well.
Po from the Kung Fu Panda Village will also hold court in Panda Village.
Please don’t think that DreamWorks Land is merely a place for character interactions, though.
At Shrek’s Swamp, kids will have their choice of wet and dry play areas, just as was the case at KidZone.
Universal has also constructed Mama Luna’s retirement home as seen in Puss in Boots: The Last Wish.
Apparently, kids can play with digital cats via interactive screens.
More Entertainment at DreamWorks Land
You’ll find several other amenities plus food and merchandise at the new themed land.
King Harold’s Swamp Symphony will allow kids to create musical accompaniments by jumping on lily pads.
Poppy’s Playground works as a hidden playground under a 20-foot-tall mushroom, a visual children will adore.
Photo: Airbnb
Importantly, the mushroom and surrounding area provide shade, making this a nice escape spot on a sunny Florida day.
Universal promises lots of climbing and bouncing opportunities for kids here.
At Po’s village, kids can wash (fake) laundry by using a water cannon and get into all sorts of other mischief by splashing around.
Photo: Universal Orlando
Po will teach kung fu classes while babysitting his cousin, Ling Ling, every day, too.
In terms of foods, we know that Swamp Snacks will sell something called Shrekzels and a “Frozen Ogre.”
When you’re in the mood for ice, Troll Treats will serve all your favorites that aren’t Frozen Ogres.
Photo: Universal
Meanwhile, your new favorite store will be High Five Hideaway, which sells merchandise featuring all the characters I just mentioned.
In short, Universal Studios Florida will get a lot better for families in a matter of months!
Universal Miscellany
The first thing to know about Universal Orlando Resort right now is that the construction walls hint at the future.
You’ll find names and even some pictures of the various attractions coming to DreamWorks Land as you roam the area.
Something else to know about Universal Studios Florida is that Mel’s Drive-In has finally reopened after an extended closure.
You’ll find that the interior is mostly the same, but Universal has updated the menu and the various digital displays.
At Universal’s Islands of Adventure, something surprising happened.
Skull Island: Reign of Kong dropped its 3D elements. Formerly, Universal handed out 3D glasses for the attraction.
As part of a recent update, Universal switched the 3D sections into 2D films instead. So, you don’t need 3D glasses.
On the Universal Studios app, you’ll discover a few changes, one of which will delight annual passholders.
Photo: Facebook/Universal Orlando
Universal Orlando Annual Passholders can view their membership extras online and use the 4 PM Express access feature via the app.
So, you no longer need your physical pass, although I’d still recommend bringing it in case of tech glitches.
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Feature Photo: Universal Orlando
