Universal Studios theme parks finally lean into nostalgia in a big way on both coasts this summer – DePaoli on DeParks
Universal Destinations and Experiences creates world-class theme parks around the globe. Part of their success is that they often use the latest technologies and current intellectual properties to create immersive experiences. But since they’re regularly bringing in the new, that means they’re often getting rid of the old. This translates to the removal of something that is very popular these days. That is, nostalgia. As I often say, nostalgia is king, so I couldn’t be happier to see both Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood leaning into their nostalgia this summer with numerous new (yet also old) offerings.
There are a lot of things that are different when comparing a Disney theme park with a Universal theme park. One glaring difference for me is how proudly Disney holds onto their nostalgic properties while Universal seems to toss them away with little concern.
If you look at Universal Orlando’s original theme park, Universal Studios Florida, there are only two attractions remaining from opening day. They are E.T. Adventure and Universal Orlando’s Horror Make-Up Show, albeit with several name changes for the make-up show. In the case of Universal Studios Hollywood, the entire look and feel of the park has changed drastically over the past fifteen years. When you look at Disney parks, the list of opening and early day attractions in their theme parks is quite extensive.
There’s an argument for both methods of entertaining guests. But there’s no arguing that nostalgia is extremely popular right now. Especially content from the 1980s and 1990s. And Universal owns some incredible intellectual properties from those decades.
We’ve seen Universal lean a bit into nostalgia over the last several years with the release of throwback merchandise. Both coasts have taken their neon “lights” logo and slapped it onto t-shirts, hats, jackets, and other memorabilia. They’ve also taken long gone attractions like Back to the Future: The Ride, King Kong and more and added them to merchandise as well.
But Universal has amped up their nostalgia game this summer. The history of Universal theme parks begins with the World-Famous Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood 60 years ago. To celebrate this milestone, Universal Studios Hollywood has brought back elements of yesteryear to the tour.
The modern-day studio tram has been redesigned to look like the Glamor Trams of years prior. Additionally, guests will get to step off the tram onto the studio backlot for retro photo ops, merchandise and more. It’s nice to see Universal Studios Hollywood celebrating the birth of the Universal theme park. In this case, it’s not just about celebrating the nostalgia for Universal movies, but for the park itself.
Universal Studios Florida is taking an even bigger stab at nostalgia this summer with Universal Mega Move Parade. This new parade will include segments featuring three movies that were once represented by attractions in the park. This includes “Back to the Future”, “Ghostbusters” and “Jaws”.
As much as I love Diagon Alley, I’d be lying if I said I don’t stop and think back fondly of Jaws: The Ride every time I walk on its former land (or water). I feel similar about Back to the Future: The Ride and Ghostbusters Spooktacular. This parade will also include “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial”. Thankfully we haven’t had to say goodbye to that ride in Universal Studios Florida.
In addition to the parade, a new nighttime show called CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular will highlight music and imagery from the previously mentioned parade properties as well as the Universal Classic Monsters.
Universal started leaning into nostalgia with merchandise. That has segued into special entertainment and limited-time experiences. Here’s hoping the success of these lead to a full-blown ride based on an iconic Universal property. I don’t know about you, but I’d be all for a brand-new land designed around the timeless “Back to the Future” hometown of Hill Valley and Courthouse Square.
What do you think? Would you like to see Universal lean into their nostalgia even more? If you could choose a nostalgic Universal property to be made into a ride, what would you choose? Leave a comment and let me know.
Jeff DePaoli is an event producer and voiceover artist living in Los Angeles. He can be heard as the voice of Disney Trivia on Alexa as well as the host of “Dizney Coast to Coast” podcast, where he and his special guests share honest opinions on all things Disney. Get your FREE gifts of “America’s Hidden Mickeys,” “On the Rohde Again,” “Theme Park Comfort Kit” and more at DizneyCoastToCoast.com. DePaoli’s opinions are his own and do not necessarily represent Attractions Magazine.
