There are some exciting developments happening on both coasts for Universal Studios. In Florida, Universal Orlando Resort‘s third park, to be called Epic Universe, is set to open in summer 2025; and before that, a host of new Minions-themed attractions (headlined by Villain-Con Minion Blast) are set to open in 2023.
Over on the West Coast, Universal is gearing up for the opening of a new land as well. Universal Studios Hollywood announced that its latest project, Super Nintendo World, will open on February 17, 2023. The immersive world of Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach comes directly from Universal Studios Japan, where a similar version opened in 2021.
Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood Will Be Dedicated to Play
Once you enter Super Nintendo World through a green warp pipe as seen in the Mario video games, you will find yourself completely immersed in the land, which will be located in the lower lot of Universal Studios Hollywood.
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You’ll find all of the typical features of a theme park land in Super Nintendo World, including rides, dining, and shopping. But one of the hallmark offerings here is the idea that play is at the center of every activity. Through wearable Power-Up Bands and augmented-reality binoculars, guests can interact with Super Nintendo World by activating various effects throughout the land, as well as the ability to collect points along the way.
Attractions and Character Meet-and-Greets Inside Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood
When Super Nintendo World opens, it will feature a flagship attraction called Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge. If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to race in a real-life round of Mario Kart, this ride is your opportunity.
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Riders will don headsets equipped with augmented-reality technology that will bring the world of Mario Kart to life in this family-friendly attraction. And, just like Mario Kart, the ride will feature multiple outcomes, reports to USA Today. Once the race is over, Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach will be ready to greet guests.
Shopping and Dining Inside Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood
The main eatery in Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood will be Toadstool Cafe, modeled after Kinopio’s Cafe, the counter service dining location in Universal Studios Japan. Its menu has not been released yet, but we can expect to find dishes inspired by Mario characters (and be on the lookout for specialty-themed popcorn buckets, too).
When it’s time to shopp (because what’s a theme park without a gift shop?), head over to 1-Up Factory for all of your Mario must-haves, including your very own Mario and Luigi plumber caps.
And don’t worry, Orlando theme park fans: Super Nintendo World is also on track to be one of the lands included in Universal Orlando’s third theme park, Epic Universe.
