Illumination's Despicable Me franchise -- which includes the popular MInions spin-offs -- has grossed over $4.4 billion globally since the first film was released way back in 2010. Now, Universal Studios is hoping to capitalize on the franchise's popularity with the opening of a brand new Minions Land at its theme park in Orlando.
Minions Land is set to open this Summer, and Universal has shared all-new details for what fans can expect. Upon entering the new area, guests will be presented with "a fun, photo-worthy ‘Minion Land’ marquee featuring 22 Minions before embarking on the mischief that awaits along Illumination Ave.,” the resort revealed
The highlight of the new park expansion is the brand-new Villain-Con Minion Blast attraction. Inspired by the villain convention from Minions: The Rise of Gru, this attraction is an "interactive blaster game experience" where guests will compete to see if they have what it takes to become the next supervillain. Naturally, once guests exit the ride they will step into a new retail location, called "Evil Stuff," which will sell Villain-Con and Minions merchandise. The attraction will join the already established and very popular Despicable Me Minion Mayhem ride and will be located on Illumination Avenue where Shrek 4-D used to be.
In addition to the rides, Minions Land will host restaurants and character meet and greets. Illumination’s Minion Café serves up mischief along with a variety of tasty dishes, including Otto’s Noodle Bowl, the Steak & “Cheese Ray” Sandwich and Carl’s Crispy Cauliflower. The restaurant will feature three themed seating areas as well as a walk-up express window with a limited menu. The themed areas of the restaurant were explained by the resort this week:
"The Kitchen – where guests will get a glimpse of the equipment and gear the Minions have used to whip up the cafe’s menu; the Breakroom – where guests can dine in the Minions’ break space that includes everything from ‘Office Safety Tips’ to a vending machine stocked with mischievous items; and the Dining Room – a vibrant space adorned with colorful artwork courtesy of the Minions and more."
If you're in the mood for something sweet, other options include sweet treats at Bake My Day and Freeze Ray Pops, along with sweet and savory popcorn at Pop-A-Nana.
There will also be an area dedicated to character meet-and-greets. Guests will be able to take photos with some of their favorite characters from the Despicable Me and Sing films at Illumination Theater. We know the latter doesn't quite fit in with Gru and the minions, but sometimes practicality is more important than theming.
Minions Land is set to open at Universal Studios Orlando in Summer 2023. Last year, Universal Pictures and Illumination announced that Despicable Me 4 is coming to theaters on July 3, 2024.