Universal Orlando opens its latest ride, a Jimmy Fallon Experience, to great fanfare. What’s next for the popular theme park? Harry Potter reboots, Fast and Furious or something else?
April 6 marks the official opening of the Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon ride at Universal Studios Florida. The latest 3D ride at the park invites guests to experience a race through New York City. But, like many rides at Universal Studios, the ride is just part of the experience.
Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon, photo by Cristine Struble
The Tonight Show has been part of the late night landscape for over 60 years. From the iconic Johnny Carson to Jay Leno and to today’s Jimmy Fallon, the NBC juggernaut has captivated audiences with a blend of humor and celebrity interviews. As fans get ready drift to dreamland, the laughs and fun ready them for a happy, restful night.
Universal Studios Orlando brings The Tonight Show experience to all its guests with the newest ride, the Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon. While theme park brings in tons of fans to visit other attractions, like Harry Potter, this new ride is perfect for all ages. Older fans can appreciate the nostalgia of The Tonight Show while younger fans will laugh at the favorite Jimmy Fallon gags.
Jimmy Fallon Experience Universal Orlando, photo by Cristine Struble
Walking into the “set” of the ride, guests can view the history of The Tonight Show. Each of the previous Tonight Show hosts are highlighted on the first floor. But, the second floor brings the “fun” to a waiting queue. Guests can sit on The Tonight Show couches, play with interactive touch screens and watch show clips while waiting. Once the lights turn colors, everyone is ready for their front row seat.
The ride does a great job of incorporating popular Fallon characters and skits into the experience. From songs by The Roots to and appearance by Sara, the ride is funny and thrilling. Guests race against Jimmy Fallon through the streets of New York and beyond. It is a 3D simulator, not a roller coaster. Still, the ride is entertaining for a variety of ages.
Harry Potter at Universal Resorts, photo by Cristine Struble
With the Jimmy Fallon Experience finished, what does Universal Orlando have planned next?
Putting asides the opening of the third Universal property, Volcano Bay, Universal upgrades are based on lots of speculation. Walking down toward Diagon Alley, the construction is underway for the Fast and Furious Supercharged. No details for the ride have been released, but the ride should open in 2018.
More interesting ride speculation comes with changes to Harry Potter areas. While there isn’t room to add anything to Diagon Alley, Hogsmead could have some upgrades in the next couple of years. The Dragon Challenge is ending its lifespan (roller coasters do need to get refurbished after a while).
Some rumors have that roller coaster going away and being replaced with a 3D dark ride. It could be another Harry Potter ride or possible a Fantastic Beasts inspired ride. People are speculating that the ride won’t be any type of river/water experience because that would be too close to the new Avatar ride at Disney. No matter what Universal opens in the Dragon Challenge space, Harry Potter fans will flock to it.
What will Universal Resort have in store for thrill seekers and fans? We will have wait and see.