The art direction, the design detail as I call it, shows what the artists at Universal Creative can do to create the mood, the atmosphere, of a park that is like no other. You can feel the sense of adventure and excitement in the air. The anticipation of thrills, wonder, and discovery to be found beyond the mix of exotic and whimsical buildings, lush plantings and fountains, all set to a soundtrack that amps up the suspense.
Watch this video to get the vibe.
At Epcot, Spaceship Earth used to set the stage for what was to come, but the attractions found within the front half of the park no longer deliver a look at the future, belying iconic structure's promise. At the Magic Kingdom, the real "First Act" is better seen once guests reach the hub and can see Cinderella Castle with the other land's entrances around it. The closest Disney competitor is really the grand reveal of the Tree of Life at Animal Kingdom. Even though the park's entrance gardens are beautiful, they hit one note.
Universal Creative did not hit a home run at all of their Florida parks. Sadly, Universal Studios' entrance area feels barren, flat and rather unimpressive. Beyond the turnstiles, the front of Epic Universe is lovely but doesn't come close in what's presented at the resort's second park.
The winding path through Port of Entry furthers the impact. Guests can help but be drawn into whatever comes next. Yet, not every piece of Islands of Adventure scores so high. Beyond the entrance, the two lands to the left are nominal in its effectiveness and appeal even if their attractions are some of the strongest (and definitely wettest) in the park. No matter. More is coming, and these three parks will only get even better, giving Disney's biggest competitor in Orlando a winning hand.
(Top photo copyright Mark Taft. Other images and video copyright Universal Creative.)
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