The buzz around Universal Orlando's expansion continues to grow with news that the Universal Studios Store in CityWalk is gearing up for a significant revamp. An article from Orlando Weekly detailed that in 2025, right ahead of the highly-anticipated Epic Universe theme park opening, the store will boast new areas themed after Super Nintendo World and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Guests will have the chance to indulge in a magical sip of Butterbeer outside the parks for the first time, choosing from cold, frozen, hot, and vegan options.
The Super Nintendo World expansion will have a fun new entrance and offer merchandise featuring popular characters like Mario, Luigi, and Donkey Kong. In addition to regular souvenirs, there might be special Power-Up bands for interactive experiences. The Orlando Weekly says the design will be colorful and full of iconic game elements, like the stores in Hollywood and Japan.
Meanwhile, Blooloop reports that the store expansion will also feature the Harry Potter universe, comprising merchandise from Hogsmeade, Diagon Alley, and the upcoming Ministry of Magic. Hints of more themed areas within the store echo visitors' love for immersive experiences that stretch beyond the rides and attractions.
Epic Universe is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious projects from Universal Orlando, with new rides and themed lands that have been a talking point since their announcement. The park will include Dark Universe, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, and Celestial Park, in addition to Super Nintendo World and the Ministry of Magic. According to a report by Blooloop from Warner Bros. Discovery executives, the new ride, Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry, is expected to be a game-changer with its "immersive environments, powerful storytelling, and unique ride technology."
The anticipation for Epic Universe's 2025 opening and its accompanying CityWalk store update is palpable among theme park enthusiasts.
