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I may be biased towards the former Cedar Fair parks but I'd 100% go with Carowinds. Don't get me wrong Great Adventure has great rides, but I feel like Carowinds has better and generally you're gonna have a better all-around experience with things like operations and food service.

The Ragin' Cajun relocation will not be operating during Spring Break for sure, and I'm pretty sure Superman will be inaccessible as well (though we'll know more about that after opening day this Saturday). I would go to Carowinds. I'd honestly go to Carowinds any day of the week over SFGAdv, and the prior is a 9 hour drive for me while the latter is less than 2.

Agreed, first half retrack = awesome, then chiropratic help is needed after that god awful and just painful tunnel helix final thing.

The parts they did last year were great... Then the second half of the ride tried to kill me.

Universal Studios Japan has announced that Sesame Street Fun World will have its final day of operation on Sunday, May 10th, 2026 to make way for new experiences in the park. Between now and then, a special event, "Forever Friends - Always Together" will be hosted in the land to allow guests to send off tis family-favorite area before it closes. https://www.usj.co.jp/company/company_e/news/2026/0309/ Since the park opened in 2001, Universal Studios Japan has continued to evolve and grow its programs and campaigns under the brand spirit of “NO LIMIT!”—driven by a strong commitment to delivering world‑class entertainment and truly unimaginable excitement to all our guests. As we look toward the future of our collaboration with Sesame Street™ and the continued enhancement of guest experiences, we have made the decision to conclude operations of “Sesame Street™ Fun World”—a family‑favorite area within “Universal Wonderland” that has created cherished memories for guests of all ages since its opening on March 16, 2012. The final day of operation will be Sunday, May 10, 2026. To express our heartfelt gratitude to all guests who have loved and supported “Sesame Street™ Fun World” over the years, we will host a special commemorative event that celebrates the many memories and bonds formed in this area: “Forever Friends – Always Together”, Event Period: March 20 (Fri) – May 10 (Sun), 2026 Experiences with Sesame Street™ friends will continue throughout the park, including the “NO LIMIT! Parade – Discover U!!! Version,” “Sesame Street™ 4‑D Movie Magic” (currently suspended), “The Ultimate Blues Bash – Colors of Music,” and various character greetings. To express heartfelt gratitude to all guests who have cherished this area over the years, the park will host a special commemorative event: “Forever Friends – Always Together” Event Period: March 20 (Fri) – May 10 (Sun), 2026 For 14 years, “Sesame Street™ Fun World” has watched over the precious moments shared by families and friends. This special farewell event celebrates those bonds and memories built in this beloved space. ■Event Overview: “Forever Friends – Always Together” ●Capture Your Memories with Elmo and Friends!“Memory Snapshot Card” Guests will receive a special card that allows them to take unique photos blending the Sesame Street™ characters with real park scenery when held up at designated locations. Take home one last unforgettable photo from the streets of Sesame Street! Artwork will change during the event. [Distribution Period] -First Round: From March 20, 2026 (Fri) – until supplies last -Second Round: April 15, 2026 (Wed) – May 10, 2026 (Sun) Dates are subject to change. [Distribution Location] Universal Wonderland Distribution may be limited or canceled depending on weather or on-site conditions. ●Share Your Precious Memories!“Everyone’s Treasure Board” Guests can write down their favorite memories—beloved attractions, joyful moments, special experiences—and post them on “Treasure Boards” installed in two locations within the area. [Locations] In front of Elmo’s Imagination Playland & Sesame’s Big Drive [Period] April 11, 2026 (Sat) – May 10, 2026 (Sun) Schedules and locations may change or be canceled due to weather or operational reasons. Message cards will be replaced regularly.

Can't hide it now... Was surprised to see the news this morning!!

Carowind peeps, I need your advise: Spring Break question. We have the MVP pass and want to try to get as much milage out of it this year before Six Flags implodes (joking... not joking). ANWAYS... My wife and I have not been to Great Adventure of Carowinds (about the same distance from us). So, for a fun two-day trip should we go to Great Adventure or Carowinds during their April spring break? (cross posted in the SFGAdv.)

I could see an Air Race and Nebulaz replacing those two. Or Flying Scooters in one of the slots also.

I would hope they install a new flat on Excalibur's old spot, asap. And getting Spinsanity up and running would be nice too. I doubt TSoaker will ever run again, so that is another priority in my mind.

I'm curious what might be happening with the Lakeview pavilion. In my mind, they wouldn't remove it because of it's historical connection to the original RF, but they also never really pushed or noted much of the historical aspect of what it used to be, nor is there anything truly notable in the pavilion to make it stand out. It's position in the park does give it access to the hillside and area of land that the park still owns down by the lake behind Rainbow Gardens, especially if they repurposed it as a station for a new coaster. On that note, I'm curious of the long term viability of Rainbow Gardens as it stands. While there used to be a lot of notable events held there, it has kind of faded by the wayside ever since the Bayfront Convention Center opened. It has immense history but it's position in the park is limiting. I'm wondering if they would ever move (or remove) it in the future. With the purchase and clearing of the mobile home park, it gives the park the opportunity to increase the "new" parking lot in size and, in turn, gives them the opportunity to slowly pull back (or remove) the west parking lot to continue expanding the park. However, with Rainbow Gardens existing, the parking lot is necessary for it's off-season use. Lots of questions, but all of it is exciting for the park.

It's strange that they took out any reference to that picnic grove. I had heard some rumblings of a 2027 potential coaster project awhile back but that is not a place I would have ever expected to see them building. Who knows what's going to come, good speculation though

Universal Studios Japan and The Pokémon Company have announced that new Pokémon experiences will be coming to Universal Studios Japan. These new experiences promise innovation and immersion and build upon the offerings that Universal and Pokémon have hosted at Universal Studios Japan since 2021. The announcement also hints that more Pokémon experiences will be added to Universal Destinations & Experiences properties across the globe. https://www.usj.co.jp/company/company_e/news/2026/0122/ Universal Studios Japan and The Pokémon Company today announced their plan to offer more innovative, immersive, and world-class Pokémon experiences. The project is part of Universal Studios Japan’s ongoing effort to enhance its offerings and bring fan-first, trip-driving characters to the park. Universal Studios Japan is proud to build on its prior success and bring to life the world of Pokémon in new and enriching ways for the first time. Following its debut in Japan, Universal Destinations & Experiences will deliver unique Pokémon experiences across the company’s global footprint. Further details about the project will be announced at a later date. Mark Woodbury, Chairman and CEO, Universal Destinations & Experiences “Collaborating with imaginative and inventive storytellers fuels our ability to create and deliver mind-blowing attractions and experiences that shatter guest expectations. The Pokémon Company is one of the most beloved interactive franchises in the world, and through our ongoing partnership, we will continue bringing its vibrant world to life in new and innovative ways for years to come.” Tak Murayama, Executive Vice President & General Manager, USJ LLC. “Since October 2021, Universal Studios Japan has been delivering Pokémon experiences such as parades and shows to guests from around the world. A bold new global project is set to begin at Universal Studios Japan, creating unprecedented and innovative experiences in collaboration with Pokémon—a beloved franchise born in Japan and cherished worldwide. We are proud to launch this journey from Japan, delivering extraordinary moments filled with surprise and excitement that will far exceed our guests’ expectations. We believe this global project will transcend traditional entertainment and contribute meaningfully to society, embodying the very spirit of ‘NO LIMIT!’” Tsunekazu Ishihara, President and CEO, The Pokémon Company "Since announcing our long-term alliance in 2021, we have collaborated with Universal Studios Japan to produce authentic Pokémon experiences such as the NO LIMIT! Parade and Halloween shows. As Pokémon celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, we are thrilled to launch this new project at such a significant milestone. Our mission is to enrich both the real and virtual worlds through Pokémon, and with this project, we aim to create theme park entertainment that surprises and delights fans around the globe." ABOUT UNIVERSAL DESTINATIONS & EXPERIENCES Universal Destinations & Experiences, a unit of Comcast NBCUniversal, offers guests around the world the most innovative, immersive and popular entertainment experiences. Our portfolio is comprised of world-class theme parks featuring the industry’s most thrilling and technologically advanced attractions, exceptional hotels and resorts, unique merchandise, games, virtual and live entertainment experiences. We use our rich collection of stories and franchises – from Universal Pictures, Illumination, DreamWorks Animation and more – to take people to places they couldn’t imagine while creating memorable and emotionally fulfilling moments for people of all ages. Learn more here. ABOUT UNIVERSAL STUDIOS JAPAN Universal Studios Japan is wholly owned by Comcast NBCUniversal. Universal Studios Japan has succeeded in establishing its position as a prominent entertainment and leisure landmark, drawing many guests from distant areas in Japan and overseas. Universal Studios Japan offers world-class entertainment, such as authentic attractions and shows, based not only on Hollywood blockbusters but also popular entertainment brands such as Japanese anime and a variety of seasonal events, entertaining its guests with the world’s highest quality entertainment. Through “Super Emotional” and “Super Exciting” experiences made possible only at Universal Studios Japan, all park visitors are given the opportunity to break out of their shells and be “Super Energized” in the “Super Energetic District” that is Universal Studios Japan. Universal Studios Japan has continued to evolve since its opening in 2001. It has recently accelerated its growth with the launch of world-class entertainment experiences such as The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, The Flying Dinosaur, which soars through the entire Jurassic Park area, Minion Park, and the “Hacha Mecha Ride” where guests are able to enjoy the chaotic antics of the Minions, and SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, where guests can unleash their passion to play in an immersive environment based on world-renowned Nintendo characters and their worlds. ABOUT The Pokémon Company The Pokémon Company was established to manage the Pokémon brand. Currently, the company develops and produces video games, which is where Pokémon originates, as well as trading card games, animated TV series and movies, merchandise, tie-up promotions, events, and the Pokémon Center, directly managed Pokémon shops.

From February 2nd, Harry Potter will no longer require timed entry leaving only Nintendo needing reservations.

The expansion of Illumination's Minion Park at Universal Studios Japan has opened with the launch of the new Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast attraction, a new snack location and a new shop. https://corporate.universaldestinationsandexperiences.com/illuminations-minion-park-area-expands-grand-opening-friday-july-11/ On Friday July 11, 2025, Universal Studios Japan will be holding their grand opening of the newly expanded Minion Park. The area is themed to Illumination’s Minions, which are popular among a wide range of people around the world. The area is expanded to 1.4 times the current size and upgraded with a new attraction, Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast. On Thursday, July 10, 2025, approximately 300 fans gathered at a special press event, joining Gru and his family from the Illumination’s Despicable Me and Minions film series, to celebrate this momentous occasion. The enthusiastic Minion fans, who were invited to the event, cheered as the Minions appeared on a themed Villain-Con stage. As the excitement reached its peak, the new Villain-Con Minion Blast marquee was unveiled. Founder and CEO of Illumination, Mr. Chris Meledandri: "With the new Villain-Con Minion Blast attraction and the continued expansion of Minion Park, we’ve added a bold new chapter to the Minions’ world that invites fans to fully embrace their inner villain. It’s a joy to see our characters and storytelling take shape in such vivid, unexpected ways at Universal Studios Japan, where guests can dive even deeper into the heart, mischief, and unmistakable charm that define the Minions." Taku Murayama, Executive Vice President & General Manager, USJ LLC: "Minion Park opened its doors at Universal Studios Japan in April 2017. We are delighted that the unique and fascinating world of Minions created by Illumination, is now featured at Universal Destinations & Experiences around the globe. In addition to this expansion, Universal Studios Japan will continue to evolve in the future. Next year, the park will celebrate its 25th anniversary. We will continue to deliver the immersive entertainment that the Universal brand is renowned for and strive to grow without limits to become a driving force that energizes society as a whole." Blast your way to supervillain stardom! NEW ATTRACTION “Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast” The new attraction, Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast, was unveiled today in advance of its Grand Opening tomorrow. Following Universal Orlando Resort in Orlando, Florida, the first-ever moving walkway-style* blaster attraction at the park will now be a part of Universal Studios Japan’s Minion Park. Guests stepped into a flashy building filled with a villainous atmosphere to find themselves in the middle of “Villain-Con”, straight out of the world of the film. Armed with their “E-Liminator X Blaster”, guests then stepped onto the moving walkway and tested their skills as they tried to become the newest member of the “Vicious 6”, who are featured in this attraction. *Ride attraction with moving walkway on which guests progress while standing. Attraction Information [Experience Length] Approximately 7 minutes *People under 122cm must be accompanied by an adult. Attraction cannot be experienced while holding small children. *Wheelchairs and strollers are permitted on this attraction. However, electric wheelchairs are not permitted. Over-the-top merchandise and food items that Villains around the world crave debut Indulge yourself in these over-the-top snacks loved by Villains around the globe at a snack stand just for Villains: Evil Eats. The snack stand Evil Eats serves guilt-inducing food to villains from around the world who have gathered for the Villain-Con. Try the shop’s signature item, “Donut Villain Burger: BBQ Pork & Bacon” along with the cute “Minion Donut: Banana Cream”, and the “Evil Minion Donut: Blueberry”. Indulge yourself and become a villain with these over-the-top treats full of mayhem. Become a super villain with items from the new shop, Evil Stuff. Be sure to stop by the new shop Evil Stuff for everything essential to becoming a villain. Relive the exhilarating experience of the new attraction, Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast, at home with your very own blaster, or try out the cute and adorable Minion items such as headbands lined with Minion faces dressed as villains. Find the coolest villain gifts and souvenirs only available here to commemorate the excitement of visiting Villain-Con.

Universal Studios Japan has announced that Minion Park at Universal Studios Japan will expand by 40% with the addition Illumination's Villain-Con Minion Blast. This new attraction will be similarly to the version found at Universal Studios Florida. https://www.usj.co.jp/company/company_e/news/2025/0425_2/index.html Since its opening in April 2017, a spectacular themed MINION PARK at Universal Studios Japan has been immensely popular. In Summer 2025, MINION PARK will expand by 40% its current size with an all-new area, based on Illumination’s Minions Film Franchise. At today's “MINION PARK” 8th anniversary fan event, the Park announced a series of surprises, including news of the area’s expansion, Grand Opening time and an overview of the Park's first-ever moving walkway* interactive blaster attraction, “Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast”. Approximately 300 enthusiastic fans of Illumination’s Minions gathered for the event and were Super Excited about the prospect of a new and unprecedented Minions experience. Illumination’s “Despicable Me” and “Minions” film franchises are immensely popular around the world, becoming the first animated film series to gross over 5 billion dollars at the worldwide box office. Since its opening in April 2017, the “MINION PARK” area at Universal Studios Japan has continued to evolve as one of the world's largest themed areas based on the world-famous “Minions” characters, with the introduction of “Freeze Ray Sliders” ride and a variety of seasonal programs, welcoming many guests from Japan and abroad. With this area expansion, Universal Studios Japan hopes that families and people of all ages will be able to experience the greatly enhanced “MINION PARK”. Please stay tuned for more information on the new area. *Ride attraction with moving walkway on which guests progress while standing. “Go For It!” Experience an Unprecedented Enhancement of Mayhem! MINION PARK will expand by 40% its current size with new area! MINION PARK will expand by 40% its current size with new area. In addition to the existing popular attractions in “MINION PARK” such as “Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem” and “Freeze Ray Sliders”, the new “Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast” will debut as an attraction guests of all ages can enjoy. In addition, there will be a number of new entertainment elements including snack stands and stores offering unique food and merchandise developed with mayhem in mind, only available in the new area that will make you want to “Go For It!” when you see it. “Go For It!” Blast your way to supervillain stardom! NEW ATTRACTION “Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast” The first moving walkway interactive blaster attraction in the Park's history debuts at Universal Studios Japan's MINION PARK, offering an exciting evolution of the popular Orlando attraction – now featuring new, exclusive content and enhanced gameplay features. Join illumination’s Minions at Villain-Con and encounter Belle Bottom, Jean Clawed and the rest of the Vicious 6 as you compete to become the newest member of their supervillain group. Use your E-Liminator X blaster and test your skill in this exhilarating, interactive attraction that requires no restraint. Simply stand on a moving walkway and blast your way through the competition as you cause maximum destruction and collect valuable loot. Whoever scores the most points will be on their way to supervillain stardom! It’s all-new fun at Minion Park at Universal Studio’s Japan. Attraction Information [Experience time] Approximately 7 minutes *People under 122cm must be accompanied by an adult. Children cannot be held in their arms. *Wheelchairs and strollers are permitted. However, electric wheelchairs are not permitted. “Universal Prime Annual Pass Grand Royal” holders Advance experience We are planning “Universal Prime Annual Pass Grand Royal” holders have a special opportunity that to enjoy the new area before grand open. Details, including the content of the experience, will be announced at a later date. https://www.usj.co.jp/web/en/us/attractions/illuminations-villain-con-minion-blast Blast your way to supervillain stardom in the new Illumination's Villain-Con Minion Blast attraction. Join Illumination's Minions at Villain-Con and encounter Belle Bottom, Jean Clawed and the rest of the Vicious 6 as you compete to become the newest member of their super villain group. Use your E-Liminator X blaster and test your skill in this fun, interactive attraction. It's all-new fun at Minion Park at Universal Studios Japan. Summer 2025—Minion Park gets even more mayhem! The famous Villain-Con trade show is taking place right here in Universal Studios Japan. And headlining the event is the Vicious Six, the world's most formidable team of super villains. Compete in an interactive blaster game to become the newest member of the Vicious 6 by causing maximum destruction and collecting loot. Whoever scores the most points will be their newest member. Happy blasting and may the worst villain win! You're going to be provided with an interactive E-Liminator X blaster. As you stand on the moving walkway, you're going to blast your way through 7 different scenes. Along the way you'll be able to switch between elemental blasts and more powerful launchers. Target power-ups to unlock new modes on your blaster so you can blast fire, electricity, and maybe even a few surprises! You can download the Villain-Con app to enjoy enhanced gameplay at Illumination's Villain-Con Minion Blast attraction and throughout Minion Park. This means you can actually sync your mobile phone with your blaster so you can choose your own villain avatar, track your score, upgrade your blaster, and more.