Universal Studios is spreading out in two directions, with the opening of its DreamWorks Land at its Orlando site and plans for a whole new Universal theme park in Bedfordshire, UK.
The DreamWorks attraction, based on Universal-owned characters including the Shrek, Kung Fu Panda and Trolls franchises, replaces a previous Woody Woodpecker attraction, perhaps more meaningful to older generations than to today’s kids and families.
Among its themed attractions are King Harold’s Swamp Symphony where visitors can make music by hopping on lily pads, a slide that makes farting noises as children slide on it, and a snack stand featuring Shrek-shaped pretzels.
In the UK, opening day is much further away, as the company has applied for planning permission to build on the site it has purchased. Plans call for Europe’s biggest theme park and a 500-room hotel. The company says its plan will create 20,000 jobs during construction and 8,000 permanent jobs, as well as pumping billions into the economy. Those claims will be tested as planning review continues and considers other possible less happy impacts.
