Are you looking for the ultimate guide to Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood?
I understand that all of the information online can be a bit overwhelming especially if it’s your first time.
That’s why I’m here to help!
In Mid-February of 2023, California welcomed the grand opening of Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood.
Mario fans were (and are) simply elated!
Brand new to Universal Studios Hollywood – comes interactive experiences, familiar faces walking around you throughout the day, tasty snacks, and an incredible new ride…
Ready to get started?
“Alright! Here we go!”
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Super Mario World at a Glance:
- A typical one-day ticket can start around $109 per ticket
- Home to tons of Mario and friends-themed fun, including the highly-anticipated “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge” ride, the Toadstool Café, and other fun interactive activities and games
- You are able to make reservations in the Virtual Queue through the Universal Studios Hollywood app when needed
- Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge is THE main attraction!
- Be sure to take a photo with Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach
Keep reading to learn how to do Super Nintendo World like a pro!
What is Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood?
Super Nintendo World is the brand new “World” that has opened up at Universal Studios Hollywood.
It is home to tons of Mario and friends-themed fun, including the highly-anticipated “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge” ride, the Toadstool Café, and other fun interactive activities and games!
Don’t forget to check out the 1-UP Factory for fun merchandise before you leave.
Hipster Power Tip: Make sure you purchase a Power-Up Band for $40 to collect points throughout the land (*prices subject to change at anytime). Connect the Universal Studios Hollywood app to track your points. When purchasing your Power-Up Band, you can choose from your favorite characters and designs!
Where is Super Nintendo World located?
The brand-new Super Nintendo World is located at Universal Studios Hollywood, at 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608
Once inside Universal, head just past Jurassic World, right around the Transformers ride, and you’ll find the entrance to Universal Studios Hollywood Nintendo Land.
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Super Nintendo World Hours at Universal Studios Hollywood
The Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood is currently open from 9:00 a.m. each day until 10:00 p.m.
This could always change as the park’s hours change.
If you take a look at the schedule on Universal Studios Hollywood’s website, you’ll notice that on many days, the hours for Super Nintendo World opens at 8:00 a.m.
Read the next section for more information on why that is.
Ticket Costs for Universal Studios Hollywood
At Universal Studios Hollywood, a typical one-day ticket can start around $109 per ticket. A two-day general admission ticket will start at $159 per ticket.
If you select a Universal Express Pass, it will begin around $209.
For a limited time, Universal is offering a Universal Studios Hollywood Super Nintendo World “Early Access Ticket.”
Essentially, you can purchase a $20 add-on to your ticket price and receive early access to Super Nintendo World before the theme park is open to everyone else!
“That’s-a-so-nice!”
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How does the Virtual Queue work for Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood?
So! How does the Virtual Queue affect your time at Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood? I’ve got your answers!
You are able to make reservations in the Virtual Queue through the Universal Studios Hollywood app.
One important guideline to note is that you must be on the property if you plan to make a reservation with the Virtual Queue.
Additionally, the Universal Studios Hollywood website states:
“Reservations are limited in number and based on space availability throughout the day.”
In other parts of the park, you can use this Virtual Line feature to reserve rides such as the Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash.
However, specifically for Super Nintendo World, using the Virtual Queue feature is for the purpose of simply entering Super Nintendo World.
It does not grant priority access to the “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge” ride.
For more information on how to access the Virtual Line click here.
Average Wait Times for Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood:
So far, because the world AND this ride are brand new, the wait times for Super Nintendo World’s only attraction: “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge,” can be several hours long.
But hold on – Before you say “game over,” keep in mind that this is standard for new theme parks and new highly-anticipated rides.
This is why I suggest that you head directly to the ride first thing when you arrive at Super Nintendo World.
Afterward, you can spend your day interacting with the other fun spots throughout the land.
You might be able to work around the long wait times if you’re willing to hop in the Single Rider Line! This line will sometimes be shorter.
The wait times for the interactive games throughout Super Nintendo World do vary, but you can expect at least a 10 to 15 minute wait.
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Using an Express Pass VS. VIP Experience for Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood
So, you’re going to Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood…and you’re looking into ticket options.
- How can you have the most amazing time possible?
- Should you go for the more affordable Express Pass, or should you pay top dollar for the VIP Experience?
- What benefits will you receive out of each, and what do they cost?
So glad you asked…
Universal Studios Hollywood Express Pass
With the Express Pass, you will be able to bypass the need for a reservation time to enter the land. Plus!
The Express Pass comes at a more affordable cost, beginning at around $209.
However, it does NOT include front-of-the-line access to Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge ride.
VIP Experience at Universal Studios Hollywood
With the VIP Experience, you will bypass the need for a reservation time, in addition to all the regular perks of the VIP Experience that guests will receive, including:
- A fantastic “VIP” meal
- Priority access to ALL rides and attractions
- Valet parking (included with the VIP Experience)
- Snacks throughout the day
The Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Experience tickets begin at $379.
I recommend choosing either the Express Pass or the VIP Experience versus just a standard admission ticket.
This is because entry into Super Nintendo World isn’t guaranteed (as it is such a new and in high-demand land), so choosing one of these two passes gives you a much better shot at getting on the Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge ride.
However, getting the VIP Experience allows you to get front-of-the-line access to the new Mario attraction.
Rides in Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood
Speaking of the Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge ride…Let’s talk about the most exciting part (in our opinion) of Super Nintendo World!
Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge is THE main attraction in this new awesome world.
What to Expect on Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge
Inside the ride, you’ll wear special glasses – Want to know why?
Because this awesome ride is both 3D and 4D!
The glasses slip onto the Mario visor helmets you receive when you enter the line.
While you’re waiting in the queue, there are fascinating things to notice everywhere you look.
On the ride, you’ll help out Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach battle Team Bowser…
The game is challenging – making it fun for all ages.
How does the game work on Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge at Universal Studios?
You’ll toss out shells while steering along the courses that change and collecting lots of digital coins along the way.
Plus, you’ll win bonus coins if you hit Team Bowser.
Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge ride is an attraction and game all in one, and Mario fans will not be disappointed.
Plus, the game also varies every time you ride it – so there’s always a reason to come back!
What’s the Height Requirement for Mario Kart Bowser’s Challenge?
The height requirement for Mario Kart Bowser’s Challenge is 40 inches. If you’re shorter than 3’4”, you will need a riding companion.
For more information about the exceptional new attraction at Super Nintendo World – check out the Universal Studios Hollywood site.
Attractions and Experiences in Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood
This thrilling Mario World at Universal Studios Hollywood has mini-games and interactive experiences to partake in.
You will feel like you’re virtually inside a Mario video game the entire time they’re there!
The purpose of the games throughout the land is to hold your Power-Up band to the blocks and marked spaces throughout the land.
Some areas have games, and some spots just access you more points.
Sometimes you will earn digital stamps or stickers, and everything you collect will be viewable in the Universal Studios Hollywood app.
Certain games will grant you keys in the app if you win!
Once you earn three of the keys, you can participate in Bowser Jr.’s Shadow Showdown.
You can walk through and play the game against other Universal guests. It’s endless fun at Super Nintendo World!
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How to Get and Use the Power-Up Band in Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood
The Power-Up Band serves as your collector of all points, keys, digital stamps, and digital coins throughout your day.
It connects to your Universal Studios Hollywood app to log your progress.
When you reach a block with a question mark on it (just like the ones from Mario games), you can hold your Power-Up band to the designated circle and gain coins, etc.
This is how you’ll interact with the blocks!
Wait to hear the special sound designating that you earned in your digital collection.
You can also collect your score after riding “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge.”
Where in Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood do you get your Power-Up band?
When you first enter the land, you’ll be able to purchase a Power-Up band for $40 at vending machines located right inside when you enter Super Nintendo World, as well as several designated Universal CityWalk locations!
Just remember that the price can change at anytime.
You can also purchase a Power-Up band inside the 1-Up Factory (a store inside Super Nintendo World!)
There are a whole host of Super Nintendo World stamps that dedicated fans can aim to earn. Plus, there are around 170+ to try to collect!
Some are seasonal and can only be collected on certain holidays, etc.
Gamers can try to collect the following keys by playing mini-games in Mario Land:
- Piranha Plant Nap Mishap
- Goomba Crazy Crank
- Thwomp Panel Panic
- Koopa Troopa POWer Punch
Once you’ve gathered at least three keys, it’s time to play in Bowser Jr.’s Shadow Showdown!
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Food in Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood
You’re going to get hungry when you’re walking around Universal Studios Hollywood – and, more specifically – Super Nintendo World.
So that’s when you’ll head over to Toadstool Café!
Toadstool Café
This thematic dining experience offers oh-so-tasty meals and snacks, and the inside is decorated to make you feel like you’re inside the world of Mario and friends.
The theme inside and out is mushrooms galore.
There’s a huge red mushroom on the top of the café, and the idea is that Chef Toad has presented you with his top-tier delicacies.
You’ll have your choice of:
- Piranga Plant Caprese
- Super Mushroom Soup
- Toadstool Cheesy Garlic Knots
Not-to-mention the Luigi Burger, Fire Flower Spaghetti & Meatballs, Princess Peach cupcake, and plenty of options for the kids as well!
Are you catching on to the theme here?
The cafe offers a variety of gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options, so all can enjoy a tasty meal. Don’t forget to grab a Super Mushroom collectible cup before you go!
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Character Meet-and-Greet in Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood
If you thought that the fun stopped at interactive games and a fantastic attraction, you’d be wrong!
Fans can also meet Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach in Super Nintendo World.
Catch Princess Peach at a special gazebo right by her amazing castle.
This might blow your mind – but Princess Peach’s eyes move, and her mouth does too. She can actually speak a few words. Revolutionary!
The same goes for Mario and Luigi – they can speak catchphrases and move their eyes.
You’ll find them near the center of all of Super Nintendo World.
All three characters are happy to take photos with guests – and if you bring along your Power-Up band, it will enhance the experience even more.
Your Personal Itinerary for a Day in Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood
Now that you know what to expect, I will give you a fun itinerary for your trip out to this new land.
1. Get an Express Pass or Early Access
To plan your day at Super Nintendo World – Universal Studios Hollywood, I suggest that you purchase a Universal Express Pass OR an Early Access add-on to your ticket to guarantee the earliest entry possible.
2. Have Your Power-Up Band Ready
Make sure to purchase a Power-Up Band in advance of your Super Nintendo World day so that you don’t have to wait in line to purchase one.
3. Head to Mario Kart
Once inside, walk straight over to Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge.
Impress your friends with your awesome score, and enjoy this impressive attraction experience.
At the end, don’t forget to record your score onto your Power-Up Band!
4. Get Your Points
Next up, start earning some coins and stamps. Use the digital map in the Universal Studios Hollywood app to find interactive spots.
Ask a Team Member for guidance if you need it.
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5. Have Lunch
Break for lunch at the fabulous Toadstool Café with the reservation you made this morning.
Enjoy the food and drinks, and then head back out to earn more coins and stamps while also making a plan of how you’ll earn your three keys!
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6. Meet Mario and Friends and Get More Points!
Around mid-afternoon, make your way over to the Meet-and-Greet areas to chat with Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach.
Take photos with all the characters and access fun features with your Power-Up Band.
7. Complete the Final Challenge
Once you have earned your three keys, take them over to Bowser Jr.’s Shadow Showdown.
This is located in Bowser Jr.’s Lair to the right of the Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge attraction to play the game and test your skills!
8. Go Shopping
Don’t forget to stop in to the 1-Up Factory store before the end of your night!
Buy some fun merchandise to remember your incredible day with Mario and friends.
9. Make Your Friends Jealous!
Lastly, go home and brag to all your friends about your impressive scores and coins that you earned!
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Merchandise in Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood
1-UP Factory at Super Nintendo World in Universal Studios Hollywood is THE place to go for awesome merchandise.
Shop until you drop!
Inside, you’ll find hats that your favorite characters wear, as well as plush toys, patches, pins, t-shirts, pens, and lots and lots of candy.
Grab a collectible Toad Sipper, totes, magnets, or a coffee mug. Adorable Nintendo-themed pajamas, hats, etc.
You name it; they have it!
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Top 5 Beginner Tips for Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood
I know that you want to have the ultimate experience at Super Nintendo World in Universal Studios Hollywood.
So, check out my top 5 beginner tips below to help you have the easiest and most fun day possible.
1. Start Early
The most important tip (in my opinion) is to arrive at least 30 minutes before opening.
Currently, the land opens at 9:00 a.m. unless you have an Early Access add-on.
Be sure to be there super early to guarantee that you’ll be able to get to all the experiences and attractions that you want.
2. Get a Lunch Reservation
Make a reservation at Toadstool Café as EARLY in the day as possible.
You have to wait until you’re inside the park to make the reservation, so don’t forget to prioritize this if you want to have lunch or dinner prepared by Chef Toad!
In order to make the reservation, look for the QR codes right near the entrance of the world. You’ll scan the code and be able to make your reservation from there.
3. Buy Your Power-Up Band as Soon as You Arrive at Universal Studios Hollywood
You can buy Power-Up bands at several locations throughout Super Nintendo World and also throughout Universal CityWalk.
I recommend that if you have the luxury of an additional day in Universal before your day at Super Nintendo World, buy your Power-Up band the day before.
This will save you time on the day of Super Nintendo World because you won’t have to stop and purchase them.
You won’t miss any opportunities to collect coins or stamps.
4. Don’t Forget Your Power-Up Band for the Characters
Make sure to bring your Power-Up band to the character meet-and-greets if you do them.
This will enable you to have an extra unique experience when taking a photo with Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach!
5. Ride Mario Kart First!
Head to the Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge ride first once you’re inside Super Nintendo World.
The lines can get super long, and you don’t want to miss out on your chance to ride!
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My Final Thoughts on Visiting Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood
There’s so much unfolding at Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood.
I just know there will be even more coming soon!
Keep checking back for more exciting updates from Super Nintendo World, and don’t forget to keep all of the tips from this guide in mind when you’re planning your upcoming visit!
So, friend – What are you waiting for? Let’s-a go!
Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!
About the Author
My name is Nikky. I’m a wife, a mother, a pharmacist turned theme park blogger, USA Today 10Best Contributor, and a writer who loves ALL things amusement park related!
Traveling alone to the parks has changed my life and I want to show how you can create your own solo theme park memories.
Connect with me on Instagram!
(Original Article Date: June 24, 2023/Updated on March 3, 2024)