Howdy! Today at Universal Orlando I saw some big sales on holiday merchandise, the Annual Passholder Lanyard is now available, and I found some fun merchandise.
Good Morning from Universal Orlando Resort
The holiday crowds are slowly wrapping up, leaving the usual chaos behind. It still is quite busy in the parks, don’t get me wrong, but it is not shoulder to shoulder anymore which is incredibly nice. Until it rained later in the afternoon the weather was stunning.
Surf Shop Progress
The Surf Shop has been under construction for quite a while now, but there is progress. I loved this shop when it was open so I’m very excited to get it back. There is now some roof work being completed in the space. For more details be sure to visit our article on our website.
Universal Studios
I decided to start my day at Universal Studios, and after enjoying my coffee in the front taking in the music and people watching I braved my way inside the park.
The Brown Derby Super Sale
Universal Orlando is still offering HUGE discounts on select merchandise in The Brown Derby. This 70% off sale is exclusive to Team Members and Annual Passholders. I was surprised to see the Pearl plush along with some other holiday pieces already marked way down.
Summer Tribute Store – CLOSED
The Summer Tribute Store has closed its doors to the public leaving only a few small clues in the windows including a closed sign and a small Squirrel, reminiscent of Earl. I love the tiny details Universal offers their super fans, it certainly keeps me on my toes as a reporter, but as a guest it keeps me interested.
Mystery Fun in Spongebob Storepants
The mystery pack is not new, but it is fun. Inside each box there is a mystery figure, two stickers, and a randomly flavored Krabby Patty. I got Larry, which feels like a sign that I should go to the gym like I told myself I would for the new year.
The Duff Man Still Missing
We eagerly await the return of The Duff Man but unfortunately today is not the day. In his place a box remains. Until his return we shall entertain ourselves in the Kwik-E-Mart.
Wizard Boy
I kid with the headline, I am a huge Harry Potter fan. I remember my mom reading me the first few books before I was ready to take them on solo. Even then though it was a tradition in my family to see the Harry Potter movies in the theater. Are you a Harry Potter fan? Let me know in the comments below.
Side note, even if you’re not a fan of the series standing here watching people try to capture the fire breathing dragon is entertaining in and of itself.
EARL!
There was only one spot that I was able to still find Earl lingering from the holidays. I found him in the San Francisco Candy Factory. Granted I don’t see many folks going in and out of this location, but it still felt odd to have only one spot still so decorated.
End of an Era
The airbrush station that was once in the ‘Fast and Furious’ shop has been totally taken out and replaced with more merchandise. I thought it was appropriate and fun to have an airbrush booth in this space, and I don’t know anyone who doesn’t like a personalized souvenir.
Googly Eyes Gone
It seems that someone else has discovered the silly googly eyes in the skull in Sahara Traders and taken them out along with my joy. Granted this is certainly more story appropriate so I am not mad just a bit disappointed.
Transformers Tumblers – $40.00 each
On my way out of Universal Studios I found these two Stanely look-a-like tumblers featuring the Transformers. I won’t lie, I am not a Transformers fan. I haven’t seen most of the movies, but I do like these tumblers. They are available in the gift shop exit of the Transformers ride.
Islands of Adventure
As you can clearly see, Islands of Adventure was the quiet park of the two. I am not complaining whatsoever, but it was a bit creepy how quiet it was for the middle of the afternoon.
50% Off Select Holiday Merchandise
Both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure have Christmas shops offering 50% off select holiday merchandise. There were even some Earl books still available, but discounts do not apply on the book. Will you be heading to Universal to purchase any holiday merchandise at a discount? Let me know in the comments below.
Annual Passholder Lanyard
Typically Universal gives Annual Passholders magnets, but this month we were given a lanyard featuring the entrance of EPIC Universe. I love this! It makes me feel more like an insider with EPIC on there as silly as that may sound.
I spoke with a Team Member on City Walk who told me that they are transferring to EPIC Universe, and will starting time over there in only TWO WEEKS! I literally eeped like Beaker from The Muppets.
Jurassic Park Updates
In Jurassic Park, refurbishments are everywhere. The River Adventure is behind walls for its refurbishment, Pizza Predatoria has completed the concrete work in the seating area, and Pteranodon Flyers remains closed but should be reopening soon.
Hogsmeade
Nothing much going on in Hogsmeade, but I thought you’d like to see the place anyway because it’s still so well done. I have been hunting the Hogwarts Express female conductor to absolutely NO LUCK. One day I will see her.
All Hallows Eve Boutique
All Hallows Eve Boutique has transformed back into it’s regular operation. There are a few remnants of the tree farm, but most of the holiday decor has been removed.
I was brave and good and did not buy the Creature back scratcher but it was hard. I hope you are proud of me. It is super cool, and is only $18.00.
Green Eggs and Ham Café Sign Missing………AGAIN
I don’t know what happened to the sign above the Green Eggs and Ham Café but yet again it is missing. This is my favorite quick bite stop, but fair warning it’s not quick. Even if there is no line without fail every time I order my Buffalo Chicken Tots I’m waiting a minimum of 15-20 minutes. Excruciating when you know how tasty they are.
I hope you enjoyed our day at Universal Orlando. I’m looking forward to the crowds thinning out in the next few weeks. Let me know what you enjoy most about Universal Orlando over Disney World in the comments below. I think Universal Orlando treats their Passholders better personally.
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.