Universal Orlando Resort has spent the last several years aggressively expanding its footprint, prioritizing high-tech innovation with the development of the Epic Universe theme park and the integration of next-generation attraction systems. However, as the resort looks toward the future, it has simultaneously begun to embrace its past. For longtime enthusiasts, this pivot toward legacy properties is significant, signaling a renewed focus on the classic cinematic brands that helped build the resort’s initial identity.
After years of these franchises maintaining only a peripheral presence, Universal Orlando has confirmed the return of Ghostbusters and JAWS to the guest experience this summer. While these are not permanent ride installations, the move marks a strategic shift in the resort’s entertainment offerings, highlighting a deliberate effort to reconnect with the history of Universal Studios Florida.
The return of these iconic franchises is part of a broader summer 2026 entertainment slate, which runs from May 23 through August 10. Guests visiting the resort during this window will encounter thematic experiences tied to Steven Spielberg’s 1975 thriller JAWS, alongside the inclusion of Ghostbusters within the Universal Mega Movie Parade.
A Strategic Shift Toward Cinematic Heritage
The decision to reintegrate these properties suggests that Universal is placing a higher premium on nostalgia as a core component of its guest experience. For decades, the evolution of the resort often required the removal of older attractions to make way for new intellectual property. Most notably, the Amity Island area—home to the classic JAWS attraction—was shuttered in 2012 to facilitate the expansion of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley.
While the physical ride is long gone, the JAWS franchise remains a cultural touchstone for the park. This summer, the resort is reintroducing the property through a series of themed photo opportunities, specialty food and beverage items and exclusive merchandise. By focusing on these experiential elements, Universal is finding ways to honor the legacy of the film without disrupting the current infrastructure of the park.
Similarly, Ghostbusters is seeing a resurgence across the entire resort. A notable highlight of this summer’s programming is the installation of massive, franchise-themed sand sculptures located at all 11 Universal Orlando hotels. These large-scale art pieces, which include imagery such as the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man and the iconic “no-ghost” logo, serve as a resort-wide reminder of the brand’s enduring popularity.
The Hard Rock Hotel lobby is getting a Ghostbusters sand sculpture! All 11 hotels will feature the larger-than-life sand sculptures inspired by popular Universal characters and stories for Universal Orlando’s upcoming summer experiences. @UniversalORL pic.twitter.com/JhqaN3LUnQ
— Inside Universal (@insideuniversal) May 16, 2026
The Evolution of Entertainment at Universal Orlando
The inclusion of Ghostbusters in the Universal Mega Movie Parade is perhaps the most visible indicator of this trend. Since the parade’s debut in 2024, it has served as a moving showcase of Universal’s cinematic library. By placing Ghostbusters alongside modern staples like Jurassic World and classic mainstays like E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial, the resort is positioning its older properties as equal in value to its current blockbusters.
This approach extends beyond the parks and into the Universal CityWalk area. The resort’s Summer Movie Series is also leaning into this retrospective strategy, featuring screenings of classic films including JAWS and E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial. This, combined with the recently opened Spielberg Summer Blockbuster exhibit at Universal Studios Florida—which features displays dedicated to JAWS, Jurassic Park, and other films—underscores a clear intent to celebrate the studio’s history.
The Spielberg Summer Blockbuster exhibit has opened at Universal Studios Florida, featuring displays for Jaws, ET, Jurassic Park and Disclosure Day. @UniversalORL pic.twitter.com/QesPSB1qg6
— Inside Universal (@insideuniversal) May 16, 2026
What This Means for the Future
The heightened visibility of these dormant franchises has naturally led to speculation among the fan community regarding the potential for future, more permanent attractions. However, Universal Orlando has not announced any plans to bring back full-scale rides based on these properties. The current initiatives appear to be focused on seasonal entertainment and guest engagement rather than permanent park expansion.
Instead, the current strategy reflects a broader understanding of the modern theme park landscape: nostalgia is a powerful driver of guest satisfaction. By integrating these beloved brands into the daily fabric of the resort, Universal is creating a more layered experience that appeals to both new guests and those who remember the park’s earlier decades.
As Universal Orlando continues to navigate its massive growth and the upcoming milestones for the Epic Universe project, the return of Ghostbusters and JAWS serves as a reminder that the resort’s identity is still deeply rooted in its cinematic origins. For now, guests can look forward to these classic properties taking center stage throughout the summer season. Further updates regarding future seasonal offerings or permanent additions to the park will be provided by official Universal Orlando channels as they become available.
What are your thoughts on Universal’s return to its classic film roots? Share your memories of the original attractions in the comments below.
