Universal CityWalk is getting a serious upgrade in 2026 — and if you’ve been sleeping on Orlando’s most exciting entertainment complex, now’s the time to pay attention.
Three major new experiences are confirmed to debut at Universal CityWalk over the next year-plus, ranging from a beloved retail return to a brand-new waterfront music venue. Whether you’re a foodie, a nostalgia lover, or someone who just wants great live entertainment, something on this list is going to make your next trip to Universal Orlando even better.
Ready to see what’s coming? Let’s dive in.
Universal Legacy Store Returns This Month
If you grew up visiting Universal Studios Florida, you’re going to want to see this.
The Universal Legacy Store is officially returning to Universal CityWalk in late April 2026, taking over the space formerly occupied by the Universal Epic Universe Preview Center (which closed April 13). The store will be packed with exclusive retro merchandise inspired by some of the most iconic attractions and films in Universal history, including:
- E.T. Adventure
- Jaws
- Back to the Future
- Universal Monsters
Beyond the merchandise, expect immersive photo opportunities that transport you straight back to your favorite classic Universal moments. This is a must-visit for anyone who remembers these attractions — and for a new generation discovering them for the first time.
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Five Guys Is Coming to Universal CityWalk This Summer
Big news for burger lovers: Five Guys is set to open at Universal CityWalk later this summer, taking over the current Burger King Whopper Bar location (which closes April 21).
If you’ve never had Five Guys, here’s the pitch: fresh, made-to-order burgers, hand-cut fries, and zero freezer burn anywhere in sight. It’s been a beloved staple at shopping centers and food courts across America for years, and its arrival at CityWalk fills a gap that many visitors have been asking about.
The Burger King Whopper Bar has been a mixed bag for CityWalk goers, so the upgrade to Five Guys is genuinely exciting. Expect the usual Five Guys experience — no shortcuts, no compromises — right in the heart of Universal CityWalk.
Luke Combs’ Category 10 Arrives in 2027
For country music fans and nightlife seekers, this one’s a game-changer.
Luke Combs’ Category 10 — the popular entertainment venue co-created with Opry Entertainment Group — is coming to a brand-new waterfront location at Universal CityWalk in 2027. The venue will feature live music, food, and spirits in a setting that’s being designed from the ground up to take advantage of the CityWalk waterfront.
This isn’t just a pop-up or a temporary installation. Category 10 is a full-concept entertainment venue, and its waterfront debut at Universal CityWalk positions it as one of the premier live music experiences in all of Orlando.
Stay tuned for more details on opening dates and how to score tickets as we get closer to 2027.
More to Come at Universal CityWalk
These three announcements are just the latest in what has been an extraordinary stretch of growth for Universal CityWalk. The entertainment complex has been steadily evolving into a destination unto itself — a place where the food is great, the shopping is unique, and the energy never stops, day or night.
From new restaurant openings to exclusive retail experiences to live entertainment venues, CityWalk is proving that it’s far more than just the area you walk through to get from the parking garage to the parks.
What are you most excited about at Universal CityWalk? Drop a comment below and let us know — we read every single one!
And if you’re planning a trip to Universal Orlando, make sure to grab your discounted Universal Studios Florida tickets before you go.
Source: Amusement Today
Mark Layton
Mark covers Universal Orlando news, Epic Universe planning, hotel perks, ticket details, and the little fine-print surprises that can make or break a park day. He keeps an eye on official updates and authorized ticket sources so readers can plan smarter, save where it actually makes sense, and avoid vacation math that requires a wizarding degree.
If a guide talks tickets, crowds, hotels, or strategy, the goal is simple: practical advice you can use before you spend real money.
