Universal Orlando has transformed itself into a must-visit destination for theme park fans. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter changed the game, and Epic Universe is set to shake things up again. But after countless visits and years of theme park experience, I’ve noticed some crucial areas where Universal needs to step up its game.
1. Keep Those Restaurants Open!
Picture this: It’s 7:30 PM, you’re hungry after a full day of thrills, and you discover most restaurants are already closed – even though the park is open for several more hours. This happens far too often at Universal Orlando, forcing guests to settle for quick service or leave the parks entirely. Universal needs to keep its restaurants open until at least an hour before park closing. Period.
2. Join the Reservation Revolution
Disney World figured this out years ago – theme park dining needs reservations. Sure, spontaneity is great, but not when it means waiting 90 minutes for a table at Mythos. Universal desperately needs a proper reservation system integrated into their app. No more third-party bookings or hoping for the best. Let guests plan their meals as easily as they plan their rides.
3. Level Up the Table Service
Look, Mythos is fantastic (there’s a reason it’s won so many awards). But one exceptional restaurant isn’t enough. Universal needs more signature dining experiences that become attractions themselves. Think about how Disney’s Be Our Guest or Space 220 aren’t just restaurants – they’re part of the adventure. Universal has the creative chops to do this; they just need to make it happen.
4. Get Serious About Special Diets
“Here’s our vegetarian pasta” doesn’t cut it anymore. Today’s guests expect – and deserve – creative plant-based options and varied choices for dietary restrictions. I’ve eaten my way through Universal’s vegetarian options, and while they’re improving, many still feel like afterthoughts. Every restaurant should have exciting, purposefully designed options for all dietary needs.
5. Ease Up on the Extra Costs
Universal, we need to talk about all those carnival games, upcharge experiences, and add-ons. Yes, they make money. But when guests feel nickel-and-dimed at every turn (looking at you, Springfield USA), it damages the overall experience. Save the extra costs for truly special experiences, not basic theme park fun.
6. Bring the Magic to Mealtime
The Wizarding World proves Universal knows how to create mind-blowing immersive environments. The Leaky Cauldron doesn’t just serve British food – it transports you straight to London’s magical underground. Every Universal restaurant should aim for this level of immersion. A theme park meal should be more than just food – it should be part of the story.
The Bottom Line
Universal Orlando is on the verge of something huge with Epic Universe. Now is the perfect time to fix these issues and create an even better guest experience. These changes aren’t just nice-to-haves – they’re becoming essential as theme park competition heats up and guest expectations rise.
Remember, great theme parks don’t just build amazing rides – they create complete experiences. Universal has proven they can do this (hello, Diagon Alley!). Now they just need to apply that same magic to these key areas.
What changes would you like to see at Universal Orlando? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!