Thirty-six years ago today, Universal Studios Florida opened its gates and changed Florida’s theme park landscape forever.
Today, June 7, 2026, marks the 36th anniversary of Universal Studios Florida, a destination that has grown from a single working movie studio-inspired theme park into one of the world’s premier vacation destinations.
When Universal Studios Florida officially opened on June 7, 1990, guests were invited to “Ride the Movies” through attractions inspired by blockbuster films and television shows. What started as a single theme park has since evolved into a massive entertainment resort featuring multiple theme parks, hotels, dining districts, and some of the most innovative attractions ever created.
Over the past 36 years, Universal Orlando has given fans countless unforgettable memories. From legendary attractions like Jaws, Back to the Future: The Ride, Kongfrontation, and T2-3D to modern favorites like Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, VelociCoaster, and Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, the resort has continuously reinvented itself while pushing the boundaries of themed entertainment.
The past year has been particularly monumental for Universal Orlando. The resort officially expanded into a four-theme-park destination with the opening of Epic Universe, one of the most ambitious theme park projects ever undertaken in the United States. The new park represents the latest chapter in Universal’s remarkable growth story and further solidifies Orlando as the theme park capital of the world.
As fans celebrate today, it’s also a chance to reflect on the countless Team Members, creative minds, performers, and guests who have helped shape Universal Orlando into what it is today.
From opening-day visitors in 1990 to families experiencing Epic Universe for the first time in 2026, Universal Orlando has spent 36 years creating memories, thrills, laughter, and adventures that continue to inspire generations of theme park fans.
Happy 36th Anniversary, Universal Orlando!
Here’s to the attractions we’ve loved, the memories we’ve made, and the adventures still waiting around the corner.
Be sure to stay tuned to Theme Park Scope for the latest Universal Orlando news, attraction updates, construction progress, and theme park coverage throughout the year.
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