Outside the Disney Bubble

Sad News: Universal Studios Florida Location Shuts Down

Guests say goodbye to a once-prominent part of the Universal Studios Resort in Florida.

Universal Studios
Credit: Aditya Vyas on Unsplash

Related: Universal Studios Removes Iconic ‘Beetlejuice’, Others from Lineup

A notable gift shop at Universal Studios Florida, known as On Location, has officially closed its doors permanently. This convenient store was situated at the entrance of the park and provided guests with an array of items essential for their visits, including hats, sunglasses, and a selection of memorabilia.
Additionally, On Location served a dual purpose as a pick-up point for theme park photographs, making it a popular stop for those who wanted to capture their memories.

With the closure of On Location, there are whispers surrounding a potential change in ownership. Speculations suggest that Studio Sweets, another retail brand, may take over the now-empty shop. This transition has been confirmed by various sources, indicating that the closure signifies a shift in the shopping experience available at the resort.

Even though guests of Universal Studios might feel the impact of losing a beloved store, opportunities for shopping and entertainment are still available, especially at the lively City Walk, which boasts an array of top-tier dining and retail options.

Universal Studios Globe
Credit: Universal

Related: Fans Demand Answers as Universal Studios Considers Bringing Back ‘Back to the Future’ and ‘Ghostbusters’

Universal Orlando Resort has been witnessing a series of changes in recent months. Several locations have either shuttered temporarily or closed permanently, in line with the park’s evolving landscape. This trend reflects the resort’s strategy to continually enhance guest experience and adapt to shifting market demands.

2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for Universal Orlando. The introduction of the much-anticipated Epic Universe theme park marks an exciting chapter in the resort’s history. This forthcoming addition is expected to significantly alter the park dynamics and attract ever-growing numbers of visitors, eager to experience what the new park has to offer.

When compared to other theme parks in Florida, the Universal Orlando Resort holds a unique position. While it offers a variety of attractions, dining, and entertainment, the competition remains fierce with established giants like Walt Disney World. The recent closures and upcoming transformations will undoubtedly be closely watched by park enthusiasts and regular visitors alike.

Epic Universe Theme Park

The Epic Universe theme park is slated to officially open its gates on May 22, 2025. This launch is anticipated with bated breath, as it represents a substantial evolution of the Universal brand in Central Florida. Epic Universe promises to be unlike any other, filled with innovative attractions sure to entice fans from all over.

Among the most exciting features of Epic Universe will be the introduction of beloved brands and characters that expand Universal’s portfolio.

Notably, a themed land dedicated to Super Mario will delight fans of all ages, while the timeless appeal of Universal’s classic monsters and the world of Harry Potter will continue to enchant visitors. With such a diverse range of attractions and immersive experiences, expectations are high for this new addition to the Universal family.

A building with illuminated windows against a dark, cloudy sky. A billboard displays a black-and-white image of a person with a courtroom notice. The architecture features ornate golden statues and tiles, showing the new Wizarding World expansion at Epic Universe, coming to Universal Orlando in 2025.
Credit: Universal

In light of these recent changes, customer responses have been varied. Some visitors express disappointment over the closure of On Location, valuing the convenience it provided. Others, however, remain optimistic regarding the ongoing transformations at the park, recognizing that these adjustments are essential for keeping the experience fresh and engaging.

As Universal Studios evolves, it continues to refine its offerings to meet the demands of modern theme parkgoers. The anticipated developments in 2025, including the grand opening of Epic Universe, are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the park’s future. This upcoming phase of innovation and expansion can be seen as a commitment to enhancing guest experiences and remaining competitive within the thriving amusement park industry.

Luke Dammann

When at Disney world, Luke will probably be found eating with his favorite animatronic, Sonny Eclipse at Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe. When not at Disney World, Luke will probably be found defending Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe to people who claim "there are better restaurants"

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