With the opening of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD at Universal Epic Universe on the horizon, it’s become increasingly difficult for me to contain my excitement. I’m especially looking forward to Donkey Kong Country (which just opened at Universal Studios Japan) and am so excited to share all the new things coming for those visiting this United States iteration.
There are so many things to explore in both Super Mario Land and Donkey Kong Country: Interactive activities, food, merchandise, characters, and three rides! But they say patience is a virtue, so in the meantime… here’s what I’m most eager to experience at SUPER NINTENDO WORLD.
Jungle Action and Fun in Donkey Kong Country
When SUPER NINTENDO WORLD opens at Epic Universe, it will be the first time U.S. guests get to step into the lush jungle of Donkey Kong Country. There’s so much to explore amidst the tropical trees and waterfalls, all inspired by the world of your favorite Kongs.
As the magnificent Golden Temple enters your view, you’ll notice that there are mine carts filled with guests leaping over gaps in the “broken” coaster track. Your eyes do not deceive you — you’re witnessing Mine-Cart Madness in action! This thrilling family coaster takes you on a high-speed ride through Donkey Kong Country as you help Donkey Kong and Diddy Kong protect the Golden Banana from the thieving Tiki Tak Tribe. With cutting-edge ride technology, your cart will appear to soar through the air from one broken track and land on another.
After you ride Mine-Cart Madness, explore more of the sights and sounds of Donkey Kong Country, including a cool Rambi activity, Donkey Kong’s Treehouse to actually MEET Donkey Kong, Funky’s Fly ‘n’ Buy for all your jungle essentials, and The Bubbly Barrel for a sweet treat!
Images of Donkey Kong Country in Universal Studios Japan
A Race Alongside Your Favorite Mario Kart Characters
For Nintendo fans, Mario Kart is a staple of any respectable game night. But have you ever wondered what it feels like to be in the driver’s seat? Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge will take you on a colorful ride, dipping into some of the most iconic courses alongside your favorite Mario Kart characters.
With intricate effects, it’s easy to become entranced by the visual spectacle of this ride. But don’t forget, you have a job to do! In this interactive ride you’ll collect digital coins and throw shells to try to defeat Team Bowser and win the Golden Cup. This attraction has multiple outcomes, so rest assured, I will be riding this more than once.
PRO TIP: Check out the views of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD on Yoshi’s Adventure! Search for glowing eggs throughout the Mushroom Kingdom on this colorful family ride, opening for the first time in the United States at Epic Universe.
Next-Level Photo Ops
Get your camera ready! As soon as you step through the green pipe located inside the portal to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, you will have more photo content than your social feeds can handle. The entrance to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD takes you to the second level of Princess Peach’s Castle, giving you a show-stopping view overlooking the Mushroom Kingdom. With the colorful Mount Beanpole and the ominous Bowser’s Castle in the background, this is a backdrop that needs you in the forefront.
As for me, I will be making a beeline for the character meet and greets so I can get my pictures with Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and Toad. My personal favorite, Donkey Kong, can be found at Donkey Kong’s Treehouse in Donkey Kong Country — his first time ever meeting guests at a Universal theme park in the United States! Whether you want to capture the grandeur of this larger-than-life world, the intricacies of the architecture, or the joy of seeing your favorite characters come to life, there’s no shortage of photographic inspiration in this world.
Chef Toad’s Culinary Creations
At Toadstool Cafe, you can refuel with tasty entrées, soups, salads, burgers, and desserts made by Chef Toad himself! I’m particularly excited for the windows. “Windows,” you ask? These windows actually show Chef Toad preparing his tasty, themed creations in the kitchen, along with the vibrant scenery of the Mushroom Kingdom. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the view while you dine on dishes inspired by the Mushroom Kingdom including Fire Flower Spaghetti and Meatballs and Piranha Plant Caprese.
Friendly Competition with Power-Up Bands
Action-packed rides, immersive dining, meet-and-greet characters… what more could you ask for? Well, let’s not forget, no adventure in the Mushroom Kingdom would be complete without a little competition, right? That’s where the Power-Up Band comes into play. This item, which is available for purchase in SUPER NINTENDO WORLD and other retail locations throughout Universal Orlando Resorts, grants you access to a variety of interactive activities throughout the world.
My favorite feature? Every time you win a new Key Challenge — the five interactive games throughout Super Mario Land — you’ll be awarded with a digital key. With enough keys (*cough* three is the magic number *cough*), you’ll unlock access to Bowser Jr.’s Shadow Showdown. The Power-Up Bands also allow you to collect digital coins, track your score, and see how you rank against friends, family, and other guests. This very much comes in handy if you’re as competitive as I am. Game on!
I am counting down the days until I can escape into the worlds of two of my favorite video game franchises – “Super Mario” and ”Donkey Kong.” Wake me up when Universal Epic Universe opens on May 22, 2025, and meet me on the other side of the green pipe!