We tried every new popcorn flavor at Universal Orlando: here’s how they rank
One of the most iconic theme park snacks in the world is popcorn, and theme parks serve it by the bucketful. Most theme parks offer classic buttered popcorn, but Universal Orlando Resort is stepping up its popcorn game by offering a handful of flavors throughout the parks.
One of the best parts of Universal Orlando’s new flavored popcorn? These flavors are available as an option with refillable popcorn buckets. We tried them all and are sharing where to find each one and how we’d rank them.
Without further ado, let’s get poppin’! Also, we’re sharing a few refillable popcorn bucket hacks later in the article.
New popcorn flavors at Universal Orlando Resort
Here’s how we would rank all the popcorn flavors, along with where to find them. A cup of flavored popcorn costs $7.49.
Universal Orlando specialty popcorn ranked
1. Garlic Parmesan Popcorn
- Location: Islands of Adventure, Seuss Landing, across from Cat in The Hat
Our favorite flavor by far was the Garlic Parmesan Popcorn offered in Seuss Landing. It’s perfectly salty and garlicky without leaving you with garlic breath. For a while, this flavor was only served inside Circus McGurkus Cafe Stoo-pendous. Now, you can grab it at the snack stand across from ‘Cat in The Hat.’
2. Bacon Cheese Popcorn
- Location: Islands of Adventure, Marvel Super Hero Island, across from Cafe 4
Runner-up on our list is the Bacon Cheese Popcorn in Marvel Super Hero Island. This flavor is heavy on the cheese with a light smoky bacon taste. If you’re already a fan of cheddar popcorn, we highly recommend giving this one a try.
3. Ogre Corn
- Location: Universal Studios Florida, DreamWorks Land, Swamp Snacks stand, across from Shrek’s Swamp Meet
Regular popcorn isn’t served at this stand — only green Ogre Corn. This popcorn has a delightful, light ranch flavor without becoming overly salty. We loved this one because you can still taste the popcorn, and the ranch seasoning isn’t overpowering.
4. Maple Bourbon Habanero Popcorn
- Location: Islands of Adventure, Toon Lagoon near Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges and Jurassic Park near The Watering Hole
This Maple Bourbon Habanero popcorn can be found in two places inside Islands of Adventure. If you love a bit of sweet heat, you’ll love this popcorn. It’s perfectly sweet and spicy with a nice smoky flavor.
Other popcorn flavors offered at Universal Orlando
Caramel Popcorn
- Location: Near the Islands of Adventure park exit
This stand has been around for a while and can sometimes be hard to catch in operation, but the caramel popcorn is especially delicious.
Banana Popcorn
- Location: Universal Studios Florida, Minion Land, next to Illumination’s Minion Cafe
Snack like a Minion at the Pop-A-Nana stand with banana-flavored popcorn. This variety is similar to caramel corn with a sweet, crunchy coating. If you love bananas, you’ll love this flavor.
Refillable popcorn bucket cost
Refillable popcorn buckets range in price depending on the design. More intricate character buckets typically cost between $20 and $30, while the clear glitter buckets cost $14.29. Each purchase includes one free plain popcorn refill.
Once you already have a refillable bucket, refill prices are:
- Plain popcorn refill: $2.49
- Flavored popcorn refill: $3.99
Bonus discount: Universal Orlando Annual Preferred Pass and Premier Pass members receive a discount on refill prices.
Refillable popcorn bucket hack
Universal Orlando offers plenty of adorable refillable popcorn buckets, making it difficult to choose a favorite. However, if you’re simply looking to take advantage of the refill discount, we recommend the original clear glitter popcorn buckets available at most snack stands.
Pro tip: If you purchase one of the larger character buckets, keep in mind that it won’t fit inside Universal’s standard free ride lockers.
The clear glitter buckets will fit, but you’ll need to remove the lid and lay the bucket on its side. It may even require a bit of squishing. Unfortunately, if your bucket is full of popcorn, you’ll likely end up with popcorn everywhere. Trust us — we’re speaking from experience.
To avoid wasting popcorn or making a mess, bring along a gallon-sized zipper bag. Transfer your popcorn into the bag before storing the bucket in a locker.
One note: We’ve had one of our glitter buckets crack while trying to fit it into a free ride locker. A Team Member kindly replaced it at no cost, but we wouldn’t count on receiving a free replacement every time.
Popcorn remains one of the best budget-friendly snacks at Universal Orlando Resort, and the addition of these new flavors has made this classic treat even more fun to enjoy.
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