PHOTO REPORT: Universal Orlando Resort 3/13/21 (VelociCoaster Face Mask, Bypass Bridge Reopens, New Haagen-Dazs Ice Cream Location Prepares to Open, Universal Character Candy, Progress on the Upcoming Universal Studios Store, and More)

Annie Wilson

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PHOTO REPORT: Universal Orlando Resort 3/13/21 (VelociCoaster Face Mask, Bypass Bridge Reopens, New Haagen-Dazs Ice Cream Location Prepares to Open, Universal Character Candy, Progress on the Upcoming Universal Studios Store, and More)

Welcome to another beautiful Saturday at the Universal Orlando Resort. We’re in for a very busy today, so let’s jump right in and head over to Islands of Adventure first.

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A new VelociCoaster face mask has arrived around the parks. We were very excited to pick this one up for our collection of VelociCoaster merchandise.

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As if we weren’t hyped enough, the walls have come down around the bypass bridge and we are now able to get a closer look at the VelociCoaster track. The bridge is open for the busy Spring Break crowds but we expect it will close again once Spring Breakers leave so that testing can resume. For now, we’ll admire the raptors and dream of when the walls come down around the entrance! Take a closer look at the track and bridge in our post here.

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The VelociCoaster sign is also lit up now. It looks really good with the slight glow behind the lettering.

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Be careful with these new raptor snacks if you’re planning to visit any of the raptors over at the Raptor Encounter. New gummy sharks, sour belts, cotton candy, and more treats are now available at Jurassic Outfitters.

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The parks are definitely crowded this morning, but they did not hit capacity.

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Many attractions have extended queues set up in anticipation of the busy weeks ahead.

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We love seeing the characters out, and it’s always a treat to see Popeye in Toon Lagoon.

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Over in CityWalk, we noticed the new Universal Studios Store has part of the signage installed. We’re expecting this to open by summer and things seem to be moving along quickly.

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The walkway was open between parks today and we expect it will be open over the next couple weeks to accommodate the Spring Break crowds.

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Even more new Universal candy has arrived over at Studio Sweets. We love the creative packaging. There’s a little something for everyone!

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There’s a Mardi Gras special going on right now. You can now purchase a festival tee and a face mask for $30.

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Häagen-Dazs has officially taken over the old Ben & Jerry’s location and signs have been installed around the entrance. Although it’s not open yet, we’re hopeful we’ll see it open very soon.

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Crowds weren’t as bad as we expected later in the day. Many of the Mardi Gras food booths had short lines when we passed by. Even Central Park Crepes had a short line.

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The park is definitely getting preparing for the influx of crowds this week. We spotted a lot more extended queues around the attractions.

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Another piece of Hello Kitty Fast and Furious merchandise has arrived at the Hello Kitty Shop. You can pick up this travel mug for $25.

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The Halloween Horror Nights banners sold quickly at the Williams of Hollywood Prop Shop. We love looking around this store on the weekends.

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It’s been a long, busy day here at the Universal Orlando Resort, so we’re going to get out of here. Thanks for joining us around the parks today and be sure to keep following for more updates!