Greetings from the Universal Orlando Resort! We’re back in the parks again today to check out what’s new, so let’s jump right in and get started.

If you’re in need of a hug from a shrimp, you’re in luck. Guests can now hug the Bubba Gump Shrimp in CityWalk.

Fully vaccinated Team Members are no longer required to wear face masks while working indoors. There are a lot more smiles around here now.

The bypass bridge connecting the Lost Continent to the entrance of VelociCoaster and Jurassic Park is now open. A cage was recently added for the safety of guests on the bridge, allowing this area to be open for guests for the first time since VelociCoaster has had riders.

These InGen cabinets in the VelociCoaster store are a nice touch.

Typical Florida afternoon storms. Many rides at Islands of Adventure are outdoors and will close with lightning in the area. This leaves a lot of guests just hanging around the park waiting for the rides to reopen.

At least the food lines are shorter now.

Poseidon is furious. That sky doesn’t look so good.

The figure next to the rain cloud in Toon Lagoon recently had barricades around it, but has now been completely removed.

It really is nice to see shorter lines for restaurants around the park.

Over at Universal Studios Florida, Dino Chow has finally arrived at the Tribute Store. The item and price have been on the sign, but there was a delay in getting the product out to guests. Cinnamon glazed pecans, cinnamon glazed cashews, and cinnamon glazed pecans are $15 a bag.

Studio Sweets was recently closed for a brief refurbishment and is now open with brand new colorful flooring.

One of the Tokyo Olympic food booths was finally open. You can read our full review of the menu here.

That’s all for this visit to the Universal Orlando Resort. Thanks for joining us today around the parks.

For more Universal Studios news from around the world, follow Universal Parks News Today on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. For Disney Parks news, visit WDWNT.