How Super Nintendo World Is a Game-Changer for Universal Studios

It’s official, Super Nintendo World is finally open!

We have been anxiously awaiting this new addition to Universal Studios Hollywood and looking forward to all the new food, games, and attractions. Now we’re here and bringing you along with us. Come take a look!

There are so many exciting things to see and do in this new park, so let’s get started!

Power-Up Bands

First, we picked up our Power-Up Bands! While these aren’t necessary to enjoy the park, you can purchase these to add another immersive level of fun to your trip.

You can choose between six options: Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Yoshi, Toad, and Princess Peach — and whichever you choose will be your team for the day. You’ll be able to link your wristband to your account in the Universal Studios Hollywood app, and track your progress and you can see how your team is doing in the park that day!

We were able to scan our wristbands at Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge to track our score…

…”punch” interactive blocks around the land to collect digital coins and stamps…

…and even participate in Key Challenges like Goomba Crazy Crank, Koopa POWer Punch, Piranha Plant Nap Mishap, and Thwomp Panel Panic.

Once we collected three of the four digital keys, we got access to Bowser Jr. Showdown, the final challenge inside Bowser Jr.’s hideout.

We thought these bands were totally worth it! Without them, you can’t interact with most of the land, so if you’re a big fan or want to experience all you can, we definitely recommend grabbing one.

See everything you need to know about Power-Up bands here!

Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge

This is the land’s signature ride, and it combines several elements. Guests will don 3D glasses as they ride a race car, battling Team Bowser alongside Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach. As you ride, you’ll collect coins and throw shells to try to win the Golden Cup!

We thought this ride was a lot of fun! The theming in the ride queue is really quite impressive.

We did notice however that our Power-Up band didn’t track our points like it was supposed to, which was a bit of a bummer, but we had a great time.

Mario Kart in Real Life?! We’re Riding the Newest Nintendo Attraction!

Toadstool Cafe

Toadstool Cafe invites guests in to “indulge in fun, tasty dishes crafted by Chef Toad and enjoy playful scenery of the Mushroom Kingdom from the windows.” We were so excited to check this place out!

The inside of this 250-seat restaurant transports you into the Toad House, where you’ll find oversized faux-wood booths with puffy pink and white cushions, and tons of other signature elements you’ll recognize from the games.

With menu items like the Piranha Plant Caprese, Super Star Chicken Salad, Chef Toad’s Short Rib Special, and Mt. Beanpole Cake, the theming of this restaurant was incredible!

We tried 5 different items at this spot and were very impressed by the flavors and the freshness of the ingredients.

We highly recommend stopping by this spot to grab a meal during your Universal Hollywood trip!

FULL Review of the NEW Toadstool Cafe at Super Nintendo World

Character Meet and Greets

In Super Nintendo World, you’ll be able to meet your favorite characters! There are character meet and greets of Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach.

We waited in line for a while, but we were able to meet all of them!

We did feel like some of our meet and greet time was a little rushed, but that may have just been because it was opening day and so many people wanted to meet them.

Step Aside Disney, We’re Meeting a DIFFERENT Princess at Super Nintendo World

Shopping

Guests can stock up on Super Nintendo World merchandise inside the Super Nintendo World Store in CityWalk, the Character Shop on Universal Studios Hollywood’s Lower Lot, or the new 1-UP Factory located inside Super Nintendo World!

We took a look inside 1-UP factory when we arrived. You can find apparel, toys, souvenirs, collectibles, and gifts — as well as pick up your Power-Up Band here.

If you want something to commemorate your trip, there is plenty to choose from!

The Good, the Unique, and the EXPENSIVE — See Super Nintendo World’s New Merchandise!

Well, that’s everything we experienced on the opening day of Super Nintendo World! We’ll continue to bring you all the updates about this new park. so stay tuned to AllEars for more.

We were LIVE at the opening day for Super Nintendo World — check it out here!

Did you make it to opening day at Super Mario World? Let us know what you thought in the comments!