After nearly 8 years of high gear development at the resort that kicked off with the opening of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, Universal Orlando has showed no sign of slowing down. 2018 is bringing with it a new ride, new nighttime show, new hotel, and a few more surprises. We’re also looking forward to several important announcements for even more incredible new rides and shows on the horizon.
Today, Universal let the cat out of the bag, confirming that there is in fact an additional projection mapping show for Hogwarts castle in development. In addition to that we’re also going to get more details on the following attractions this year: the Harry Potter themed replacement to Dragon Challenge, the new nighttime show replacing Cinematic Spectacular, a new show replacing Terminator 2: 3D, and a new land devoted entirely to Nintendo coming soon to Universal Orlando. Check out the details for what’s coming in 2018 below, and stay tuned for more theme park news coming soon!
Fast & Furious – Supercharged – Opening Spring
The latest installment of the Fast & Furious franchise isn’t in your local cinemas or streaming on your favorite device. It’s a big, bold ride—and it’s right here at Universal Studios Florida. Jump in alongside your favorite Fast characters in a crazy chase scene that feels like it’s right out of the movies. The attraction is also filled with cars and props from the movies, perfect for that selfie on your IG.
Universal’s Aventura Hotel – Opening August
If you’re looking for modern, sleek and perfectly-priced accommodations while you’re here, look no further. Our sixth hotel welcomes you this August. You can already book a room and start dreaming about the views out your floor-to-ceiling windows, the sparkling pool and our first rooftop bar.
Perched 17 stories up in the air, you’ll enjoy striking, panoramic views of all three theme parks. You’ll be able to look out over the iconic Hogwarts Castle, the twists and turns of Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit roller coaster, and the tropical oasis of Universal’s Volcano Bay.
Special Events
Beyond the rides and shows, your favorite events will be back this year! A Celebration of Harry Potter and Mardi Gras are just around the corner. And here are a few more of my favorites to look forward to.
Halloween Horror Nights 2018 – Beginning in September
The world’s premier Halloween event will return for it’s 28th straight year at Universal Orlando. When this event ends, I always ask myself, “How will we top ourselves next year? There’s no way.” But then those demented geniuses go off and do it. Can’t wait to see the terrifying houses, scarezones and shows they scare up for us.
Holidays – Beginning in November
This year brought all-new décor, live shows and an incredible music and lighting spectacle on Hogwarts Castle with Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. It also included an all-new Universal Holidays Parade Featuring Macy’s with entirely new balloons and floats. And all that’s on top of the fun of Grinchmas, Mannheim Steamroller performances and holiday cheer all around.
Well, it’s all coming back again this year for more holiday merriment and mischief. Consider your holiday travel plans booked.
Looking to the Future
While Universal can’t share details on things yet to be announced, you can expect to hear an announcement or two this year on things like:
• The previously-announced ride replacing Dragon Challenge
• An additional projection mapping experience at Hogwarts castle
• Universal’s Cinematic Spectacular being replaced
• Something new going in where Terminator 2: 3D was
• A new venue coming to Universal CityWalk where Element was
• Our expanding hotel collection
• The continued global expansion of our partnership with Nintendo. Our sister park in Japan has already broken ground on Super Mario World; I’m sure you can’t wait to hear what’s next.
Whew! There’s a lot to look forward to in 2018, that’s for sure.
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