Minion Land is now open at Universal Orlando — here's a look at all the mischievous fun
The Minions began their reign of mischief at Universal Orlando Resort more than a decade ago with the opening of Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, a 3D simulator ride based on the "Despicable Me" film franchise, in July 2012.
Now, the Minions are expanding their empire beyond just one ride to encompass an entire land with an exciting new attraction, multiple dining options and a character meet-and-greet.
Say "bello" to Minion Land.
Minion Land officially opens today, Aug. 11, at Universal Studios Florida. The land is near the main entrance of the park, replacing the Production Central area and transforming it into Illumination Avenue. Minion Land will feature a state-of-the-art attraction inspired by 2022's "Minions: The Rise of Gru," a Minions-themed cafe, character meet-and-greets and more.
Together with the Despicable Me Minion Mayhem ride, Minion Land is an immersive new area of the park where families can join the ranks of Kevin, Stuart and the rest of the diabolical little Minions.
The land's premier attraction is Illumination's Villain-Con Minion Blast, a first-of-its-kind interactive attraction where you can put your villainous skills to the test to see if you have what it takes to become the newest member of the Vicious 6, the supervillains at the center of Illumination's hit animated film "Minions: The Rise of Gru."
Related: These are the 10 best rides at Universal Orlando
When you enter the queue, you find yourself at Villain-Con, the worldwide convention for criminals featured in the film. Then, you pick up a blaster and, rather than step into a traditional ride vehicle, you step onto a slow-moving walkway. As you move along the walkway through rooms outfitted with physical props and screens, you'll face off against the members of the Vicious 6 and try to earn points.
Related: Is Universal's Express Pass worth it? TPG tested how much time it really saves you in line
You earn points by shooting everything in sight and generally causing as much mayhem as possible. You can even sync your score with the Universal Orlando app to unlock special features and see how you stack up against other villain wannabes. You can also stock up on your own villainous gear at the Evil Stuff gift shop located at the ride's exit.
Villain-Con Minion Blast has no height requirement. The only restriction is that children must be able to stand on their own during the ride. Since it's accessible to families with younger children, Villain-Con Minion Blast is one of the most family-friendly attractions at Universal Orlando.
In addition to the new Villain-Con Minion Blast attraction, you can dine at a number of new restaurants in Minion Land. Illumination's Minion Cafe is a quick-service eatery with indoor and outdoor seating and adorable themed dishes like Mel's Meatball Mountain ($14.99), a Steak and "Cheese Ray" Sandwich ($15.99) and Bob's Teddy Bear Chocolate Cream Puff ($6.99), to name a few.
You can also snack on sweet treats and shop for Minions merchandise at Bake My Day bakery and gift shop, pick up some banana-flavored popcorn from the Pop-A-Nana popcorn stand or cool off with a popsicle from Freeze Ray Pops.
Related: Best restaurants at Universal Orlando Resort
If you don't want to leave without a hug from a fuzzy Minion, head over to the Illumination Theater. This outdoor area will host meet-and-greets throughout the day with the Minions and other characters from the film, such as Gru, Margo, Edith and Agnes, along with characters from the movie "Sing."
Break out your best pair of overalls, and we'll see you there.
Related reading:
- How to use points to save money at Universal Orlando
- These are the best hotels at Universal Orlando
- Surprising things you can do at Universal Orlando without a park ticket
- Part luxury, all rock 'n' roll: What it's like at the Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando
- The most surprisingly charming hotel I've stayed at in years: Universal's Cabana Bay Beach Resort
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