Super Nintendo World At Universal Studios Hollywood Has An Opening Date — Here’s When You’ll Get To See Your Friends

If you’re a fan of Mario, you’ll be saying let’s a-go to California in 2023.

Universal Studios Hollywood announced today that Super Nintendo World, a themed land starring America’s favorite Italian plumbers that were created in Japan, will open on February 17, 2023. “The immersive theme park, situated within a newly expanded section of Universal, will offer guests a 360-degree experience based within the classic video game franchise’s Mushroom Kingdom,” according to the Hollywood Reporter, including a Toad-themed restaurant, Toadstool Cafe; the 1-UP Factory store; Bowser’s Castle; and the main attraction, the Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge.

All your friends will be there. We’re talking Mario, Toad, Luigi, Toad, Peach, and did I mention Toad Guests can also wear a Power-Up Band that keep score on challenges throughout the land that earn you digital coins. Take a look in the video above.

As for the Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge attraction:

Inspired by the Mario Kart video games, the new ride will feature augmented reality (AR), projection mapping technology and practical set pieces that set riders along a moving ride track amid a multi-sensory backdrop of color, sound and movement. This stadium-style seating attraction will feature four-seat vehicles navigating recognizable courses — from underwater to the clouds — through head-mounted AR goggles. Riders will be competing for the Golden Cup while also collecting coins to defeat Team Bowser, with a variety of potential outcomes.

February is the opening of Super Nintendo World. April sees the release of the much-anticipated The Super Mario Bros. Movie. Could a new Mario game be coming out in 2023 as well Here’s hoping (miss you, Mayor Pauline).

For more on Super Nintendo World, head to Universal Studio’s website.