Universal Orlando Resort has built plenty of excitement around its future in recent years. Between major expansions, new attractions, and the arrival of Epic Universe, guests have had plenty to talk about. But while the resort continues to grow, another trend has emerged that longtime fans have noticed almost immediately.
This summer, Universal is spending more time celebrating the films that helped establish its identity. Across the resort, classic movie franchises are receiving attention through entertainment, merchandise, and special experiences.
For guests who remember the early years of Universal Studios Florida, it feels like a return to the resort’s roots.
Remembering the Attractions That Defined Universal
Long before today’s lineup of attractions, Universal Studios Florida was filled with experiences based on major Hollywood films. Among the most beloved were Back to the Future: The Ride and Jaws.
Both attractions became fan favorites and helped define what made Universal different from other theme parks. Guests could travel through time with Doc Brown or come face-to-face with a giant shark during one of the park’s most memorable finales.
Eventually, both attractions disappeared. Back to the Future: The Ride closed in 2007 and was replaced by The Simpsons Ride. Jaws followed in 2012 as Universal redeveloped the area for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Those changes brought new audiences to the resort, but they also removed attractions that many longtime fans still miss today.
Classic Films Take Center Stage Again
One of the biggest examples of Universal’s renewed appreciation for its history arrived on June 5, 2026, when the Universal Mega Movie Parade officially returned for its summer run.
The parade celebrates some of the studio’s most recognizable films, featuring floats and performers inspired by Back to the Future (1985), Jurassic Park (1993), Ghostbusters (1984), and Jaws (1975).
Rather than focusing entirely on newer intellectual properties, Universal has chosen to spotlight movies that continue to hold a special place in pop culture.
For many guests, seeing these classic franchises represented inside the park once again has become one of the parade’s biggest draws.
A Store Dedicated to Universal History
The nostalgia doesn’t stop inside the parks.
On April 24, 2026, the Universal Legacy Store reopened at Universal CityWalk Orlando after moving back into its original location. The shop now occupies the former Epic Universe Preview Center space.
The store serves as a celebration of Universal’s history, offering merchandise inspired by Back to the Future, Jaws, Universal Classic Monsters, and other well-known properties.
For fans who have spent years asking for more retro merchandise, the store offers a dedicated space to revisit the studio’s most iconic films.
Its popularity also demonstrates that interest in these franchises remains strong.
The Summer Belongs to Jaws
While several classic movies are receiving attention, Jaws has become the centerpiece of Universal’s nostalgic offerings.
The resort launched its JAWS-themed summer experiences on May 23, and they will continue through August 10, 2026. Guests can enjoy themed food, merchandise, and photo opportunities inspired by the legendary shark thriller.
Universal has even expanded the celebration beyond the theme parks.
At the Universal Cinemark theater in CityWalk, guests can watch screenings of Jaws (1975) on select dates between June 20 and August 26, 2026.
The film’s continued popularity is remarkable, given that the attraction based on it closed more than a decade ago. Yet the response to this year’s celebration proves the franchise remains a favorite among many visitors.
What This Could Mean for the Future
Taken together, the parade, Legacy Store, and Jaws celebration reveal a larger trend.
Universal appears increasingly interested in honoring the movies that helped build the company. While modern franchises remain important, the resort is also recognizing the value of its classic film library.
That approach could become even more interesting as Universal Studios Florida continues to evolve. Fast & Furious: Supercharged is expected to close permanently in 2027, creating another redevelopment opportunity.
Universal has not announced plans for the space, but fans have already begun speculating about what could come next.
Universal’s Future
Universal Orlando Resort continues to invest heavily in the future, but 2026 has also become a celebration of its past.
The return of the Universal Mega Movie Parade, the reopening of the Universal Legacy Store, and an expanded Jaws celebration all show that classic films still matter at Universal.
Whether that nostalgia eventually inspires a new attraction remains to be seen. For now, guests can enjoy a summer that puts some of Universal’s most beloved movies back in the spotlight.
