This...is Haley.
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OK, it’s not built like a Viking village, but I do my best to add charm.
Last week, I mentioned how spring tends to be a noticeable time for announcements or significant updates to attractions.
A new Epic Universe first look is proof of that.
Epic Universe
Fly-by of Berk 🐲
Universal Orlando was not kidding when we were told Epic Universe was going to be transformational on so many levels.
I was excited about the thought of a world based on the “How to Train Your Dragon” franchise. After seeing the first look of How to Train Your Dragon - Isle of Berk, it has me eager to see more of Epic Universe. It’s going to be kind of hard getting fed information on each world in doses.
So for Berk, I highlighted some main attractions. You knew there was going to be a roller coaster that replicated a dragon flight. I also want to point out the water-battling boat ride, Fyre Drill. This is a first-of-its-kind, aim-for-the-target ride because we’ll get to man water cannons.
As for a first look, this dragon sticks the landing.
Walt Disney World
Critter Crew: Part 1 🎻
I can hear that New Orleans jazz playing in my head, and apparently, you can also hear the actual music coming from Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in the Magic Kingdom as Imagineers are busy testing the flume ride.
Disney World released more details of the attraction’s story, based on the film “The Princess and the Frog.” We already knew Tiana was going to be throwing a party, but now we know there’s going to be a band.
So who’s in the band?
A group of critters will be there to entertain party guests as they head down the Bayou.
ICON Park
Same ride, old name 🎡
The tallest observation attraction on the East Coast has a new owner, and they’re bringing back its old name, the Orlando Eye.
The giant Ferris wheel was purchased by Merlin Entertainments, which also runs the Legoland and Peppa Pig theme parks along with Madame Tussauds and other area attractions.
Wild Florida
A wildly good cause 🦓
Wild Florida is a hidden gem of sorts in Osceola County where guests can ride airboats, interact with native and exotic animals, and really take in the beauty of the Florida outdoors.
The wildlife and safari park cares about the community as much as it does about animals and nature. For any high schoolers, you’ll want to check out the new nonprofit “Wild Florida Cares.”
Epic Universe has sparked a lot of conversation online and in person. What world are you most excited about? Personally, I’m most intrigued about Dark Universe, because it’s about time antagonists get their own attraction.
As always, feel free to keep me in the loop through my email or reach out to me on my Twitter or Instagram.
I‘ll also tend to pop up on the Take 6 streamcast to talk about the parks.