Outside the Disney Bubble

Several More Locations Now Permanently Closed at Universal Studios

Universal says goodbye to a few more locations.

Universal Studios Hollywood globe
Credit: Universal Studios Hollywood

Related: Disney World Location May Be Closing Down in Two Months

In January, Universal Studios made significant adjustments to its offerings by permanently closing several locations. Among the casualties were the Abercrombie & Fitch store and Sparky’s, a beloved donut shop. Such closures impact guest experiences, especially for frequent visitors who have cherished these spots as part of their Universal journey. The abrupt nature of these changes left many patrons befuddled, yearning for the familiar sights and tastes that have made their visits special.

Frequent visitors took to social media, sharing their sentiments of loss and nostalgia. For many, these shops and eateries were not merely commercial venues but essential elements of the Universal Studios experience. The closures evoked a mix of disappointment and curiosity about what might come next, as regulars expressed their hope for replacements that could live up to the charm of the departed establishments.

The End of CityWalk Favorites

The closing of Abercrombie & Fitch, located within Universal CityWalk, marked a significant shift for the entertainment district. This store was not just a retail outlet; it represented a trendy shopping spot that added to the youthful spirit of CityWalk. Guests often enjoyed a leisurely stroll through CityWalk, indulging in retail therapy before or after hitting the theme park rides.

Sparky’s was dearly loved for its fresh-baked donuts and vibrant signage. With its closure, CityWalk feels a bit less vibrant. Patrons expressed their regrets, recounting fond memories tied to the sweet treats, often accompanied by shared laughter with friends and family.

CityWalk plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall park experience, and the loss of these spots is palpable. It serves as the dining and entertainment hub where guests can unwind and recharge after a thrilling day. Many wonder what changes will come next, hoping for new attractions that could complement the CityWalk experience.

Universal Hollywood
Credit: Aditya Vyas on Unsplash

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The closures at Universal Studios stem from a combination of factors, primarily Universal’s recent decisions regarding space usage within the park. The studio has been restructuring its offerings to create more efficient, market-relevant use of its venues. As part of this realignment, certain locations were deemed surplus, leading to their successive closures.

Economic pressures may have also played a role in these closures. Small businesses within theme parks often face challenges like rising rents and stringent lease agreements. A coffee and boba shop, Mini Monster, closed its doors last October, citing Universal’s decision to reclaim the space as a primary reason. Their public statement reflected the harsh realities that come with operating in a competitive, high-rent environment, often leaving smaller entities vulnerable to the whims of their landlords.

These statements highlighted the difficult landscape many businesses face while also echoing the sentiment that, despite performance and popularity, outside factors heavily dictate the fate of such establishments.

Looking Ahead to Epic Universe

Amidst the wave of closures, Universal Studios has exciting plans in store with the upcoming Epic Universe. Set to be the most ambitious theme park expansion in the company’s history, Epic Universe is poised to open on May 22, 2025. This new addition promises several themed areas, each inspired by beloved franchises such as How to Train Your Dragon and Super Mario, along with expansions to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

With Epic Universe on the horizon, the current closures might become a footnote in the broader narrative of Universal’s commitment to growth and evolution. As guests look forward to new adventures, they remain connected to the memories and experiences that the older locations engraved in their hearts.

Luke Dammann

When at Disney world, Luke will probably be found eating with his favorite animatronic, Sonny Eclipse at Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe. When not at Disney World, Luke will probably be found defending Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe to people who claim "there are better restaurants"

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