ENTERTAINMENT

Minion Land coming to Universal Orlando this summer. Here's what we know

Cheryl McCloud
Florida Today

Grab your goggles and brush up on your Minionese. Minion Land is coming to town, or more specifically, to Universal Orlando Resort, sometime this summer.

The attraction features several rides, a Minion Cafe — along with several other themed restaurants — and opportunities to meet several of the Illuminations characters.

Did you just ask, what's a minion?

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Here's everything you know about the loveable characters and the new Universal attraction.

What is a minion?

Minions wave at the premiere of Universal Pictures and Illumination Entertainment's "Minions" at the Shrine Auditorium on June 27, 2015 in Los Angeles.

Let's start at the beginning, literally.

The story of the Minions begins at the dawn of time, according to Illuminations. Starting as single-celled yellow organisms, Minions evolved as they serve the most despicable masters of the time. After accidentally killing off many of their masters — from T. rex to Dracula — they have served Gru over the past several "Despicable Me" movies. So far, Gru has managed to survive, although he didn't look too well during a ride on a roller coaster.

Minion Land at Universal Orlando

Universal describes Minion Land as an opportunity to "walk around real New York streets and go on animated adventures with the cast of 'Despicable Me' and 'Secret Life of Pets.' Enter a world where Minions rule, pets are off the leash, and super silly is the only way to play."

What rides and attractions will be in Minion Land?

Universal Orlando says Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast will be "so much fun, it’s a crime."

In December, Universal announced a new interactive attraction, llumination's Villain-Con Minion Blast, would be joining the already popular Despicable Me Minion Mayhem attraction as part of a new Minion Land.

Villain-Con Minion Blast: “This will truly be a one-of-a-kind, interactive blaster game experience that will immerse guests in the world of Illumination’s Minions franchise as they compete to see if they have what it takes to be the next supervillain,” Thierry Coup, then-Senior Vice President of Universal Creative, told USA TODAY in December. 

Here are some other attractions:

The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash: Join Max, Duke, Gidget and Snowball on a journey through the streets of New York City as you get ready to be welcomed into your new home.

  • Kid friendly
  • Minimum height 34"
  • If under 48", supervising companion required

Despicable Me Minion Mayhem: Start your adventure in Gru’s home, where you’re recruited for his latest scheme — one where you’ll become an actual Minion. Experience Despicable Me Minion Mayhem and join Gru, his daughters and the Minions on a thrilling ride as you're launched into a trip through his super-villain laboratory that ends with an interactive, Minion-inspired dance party.

  • Motion simulation
  • Minimum height 40"
  • Under 48", supervising companion required

Sill Swirly: Soar and spin around for a 360-degree view of Super Silly Fun Land aboard a fleet of unique ride vehicles.

  • Under 48", supervising companion required
  • Transfer from wheelchair
  • Must transfer from ECV

Super Silly Fun Land: This elaborate play zone is an interpretation of the seaside carnival from Illumination’s “Despicable Me.” It has both water and dry areas to enjoy. There are more than 80 different water-play features. If getting wet isn't your thing (not counting our Florida humidity), another area offers places to climb, jump and slide.

A highlight of Super Silly Fun Land is the Super Silly Space Killer arcade game, where Agnes won her stuffed unicorn.

Restaurants at Minion Land in Universal

Find something to eat at the Despicable Delights and the Minion Cafe. Of course, there will be ba-na-nas, which as everyone knows, are a Minion favorite.

At the Minion Cafe will offer almost 20 new dishes, including Otto’s Noodle Bowl, the Steak & “Cheese Ray” Sandwich and Carl’s Crispy Cauliflower, which will be vegan.

For a sweet treat, head over to Bake My Day, a bakery and retail shop.

Don't miss the kiosk offering banana-flavored popcorn.

Character meet and greets available

Gru and the Minions can be spotted "as they discuss plans of world domination."

Margo, Edith and Agnes can be found at an outdoor “Illumination Theater facade.” 

Other characters that can be found will be Rosita, Gunter and Johnny from the “Sing” films.

Where is Universal Orlando Resort?

There are three parks at Universal Orlando Resort: Universal Studios Florida, Universal's Islands of Adventure and Volcano Bay. There is also Universal CityWalk.

Parking garage address for all the theme parks and CityWalk is 6000 Universal Blvd., Orlando, 32819.

How much do tickets cost at Universal Orlando Resort?

Several options exist if you're planning a trip. There is a one park per day ticket or a park-to-park ticket so you can visit several parks in the same day. A Universal Express or Universal Express Unlimited Pass allow guests to go to the head of the line.

There also is special pricing for Florida residents that includes buy a day and get two days free when you buy a 2-Park, 1-Day Park-to-Park Ticket. The three days must be used by Sept. 29.