Universal Studios Hollywood’s CityWalk is undergoing a significant transformation, with another closure just weeks away.
Like all theme parks, Universal Studios Hollywood is no stranger to change. In fact, the park has arguably changed more than any other Universal destination over the years. What began in 1964 as a humble backstage tour (which itself had been performed in a different iteration many years earlier) has grown into a world-class destination, featuring attractions like the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Jurassic World—The Ride, and the relatively new SUPER NINTENDO WORLD—all creatively squeezed into what’s a relatively small blueprint in Hollywood.
The Evolution of Universal CityWalk
Back in the 1990s, one of these expansions came in the form of Universal CityWalk. Much like Downtown Disney for Disneyland Resort, the area acts as a shopping and dining district to entertain guests before or after their theme park visitors, as well as locals.
This three-block district offers a mix of restaurants and shops, with venues like Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville and Bubba Gump Shrimp Company proving most popular among visitors. However, the area has undergone a transformative period recently, with multiple locations closing with little to no notice.
In September, Dongpo Kitchen, a Chinese restaurant that had operated for eight years, quietly closed without an official announcement. Mini Monster, a coffee and boba shop with multiple locations outside Universal, shuttered in October, citing rising rents and the decision of Universal as its landlord not to renew the lease.
Earlier in the year, clothing retailer Francesca’s relocated, and Chick Chick Chicken, its neighboring eatery, closed soon after. Their combined spaces now host the Hello Kitty and Friends Cafe, a whimsical addition offering Sanrio-themed treats and merchandise.
Next up is Sparky’s. As per @HighUniversal, an employee at the store has confirmed that the donut shop will close at Universal Studios Hollywood’s CityWalk on January 19 – just 18 days from now.
Spoke with an employee at Sparky’s on CityWalk today. The location will be closing permanently on January 19th. The CityWalk purge in Hollywood continues.
Spoke with an employee at Sparky’s on CityWalk today. The location will be closing permanently on January 19th. The CityWalk purge in Hollywood continues 👀 @UniStudios pic.twitter.com/gDSGHgLjCi
— Universal HIGH 🌎 (@HighUniversal) January 1, 2025
These recent changes have not gone unnoticed by visitors. Regulars have taken to social media to share their disappointment, describing CityWalk as increasingly “lackluster” and dominated by Universal-owned ventures. The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium has faced particularly harsh criticism for its menu and execution, with some calling it a missed opportunity.
CityWalk’s challenges are not unique to Hollywood. Similar entertainment districts at Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Japan have also seen periodic reshuffling to keep offerings fresh. However, the wave of closures at Universal Studios Hollywood has sparked debate about whether CityWalk is losing its identity as a vibrant, diverse destination.
As Universal Studios Hollywood continues to evolve, the future of CityWalk hinges on striking a balance between adding new features and maintaining the magic that attracts guests in the first place. For now, the entertainment district remains a vital part of the park experience, but its ongoing transformation leaves its ultimate direction uncertain.
What are your thoughts on the changes at Universal CityWalk?
