Universal Orlando Resort and Starbucks gave millions of guests even more of a reason to grab a cup of coffee before entering the parks.
Universal and Starbucks Have Great News for You
For much of the summer, Universal Orlando guests arriving at CityWalk were met with an unusual sight: Starbucks, one of the busiest spots on property, was closed off entirely. The windows were blocked, the patio roped, and the daily stream of park-goers was rerouted to a smaller Starbucks near Universal’s Great Movie Escape.
That closure stretched on for nearly three months, sparking plenty of speculation about what was happening inside. Now, the doors have swung open once again as of September 10, 2025, and the wait has revealed a refreshed location with a brand-new look, updated furnishings, and a feature wall that has social media buzzing.
So, what exactly should visitors expect when stepping into the updated Starbucks at CityWalk?
A Look at the Redesign
The refreshed location delivers a noticeably different vibe from its previous style:
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Brighter Interior: The dark tones of black metal and faux brick are gone, replaced by lighter wood, soft greens, and an airy atmosphere.
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Updated Furniture: Seating has been upgraded with wood-backed chairs and pale green bench cushions, creating a softer look.
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Outdoor Patio: Familiar covered seating remains, though tables and chairs now feature sleek black and gray tones.
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Artful Mural: A new mural by artist Mike Willcox, known for his Starbucks drinkware collections, now anchors the interior with a colorful undersea theme featuring a mermaid and coral.
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Modern Touches: White tile walls, pale wood shelving, and new orb-shaped light fixtures bring the design together.
The CityWalk Starbucks reopened after a several month refurbishment, featuring brighter decor and a new Mermaid mural.
The CityWalk Starbucks reopened after a several month refurbishment, featuring brighter decor and a new Mermaid mural. @UniversalORL pic.twitter.com/k73qqRU788
— Inside Universal (@insideuniversal) September 10, 2025
The storefront itself has also been simplified, dropping “Coffee” from the signage and now reading just “Starbucks.”
Planning Your Visit
If you’re hoping to stop by during your Universal trip, a few strategies can help streamline the experience:
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Avoid Peak Hours: Expect the heaviest crowds between 9–11 a.m. and just before park closing.
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Mobile Ordering: Use the Starbucks app to place your order in advance and bypass the line.
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Best Spots: The shaded patio remains a quiet retreat for families and solo travelers alike.
Tips Regulars Swear By
Beyond the headline updates, a few under-the-radar features make this location especially appealing:
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Charging Stations: The redesign includes more accessible outlets for phones and devices.
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Midday Breaks: Compared to in-park locations, this Starbucks tends to be calmer in the afternoon hours.
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Photo Moments: The new mural has already become a must-see backdrop for TikTok and Instagram posts.
Why Fans Care
For many Universal Orlando visitors, grabbing Starbucks at CityWalk isn’t just about coffee—it’s part of the experience. From pre-park caffeine boosts to late-night pick-me-ups, the shop has long been a touchpoint for starting or ending a park day.
The redesign highlights Universal’s ongoing effort to refresh dining and retail spaces to match the polish of its newer attractions. Guest reactions have already been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the lighter design and artistic details.
It’s a small change in the big picture of Universal Orlando, but one that resonates with fans who build traditions around every detail of their visit.
Closing Thoughts
After months of anticipation, the Starbucks at Universal Orlando CityWalk is open again—this time brighter, fresher, and more in step with the modern atmosphere Universal has been cultivating across its resort. Whether you’re starting your day or closing out a long night at the parks, the updated coffee stop is once again ready to serve as a staple in the Universal guest experience.
