I spent one day of my weekend visiting Universal Orlando Resort, wandering the Yellow Brick Road.
Their Wicked: The Experience event, now featuring a full Wicked: For Good overlay, had me truly excited to visit and explore it, especially with me being a huge fan of the Broadway show and the films.
And let’s just say, there’s a lot that you can expect from it, one which is part store, part museum and part photo opportunities meant to create smiles. There’s something irresistible about a theme park that leans into Broadway-level theatrics, especially when the worlds of musical storytelling and pop-culture collide. I was intrigued before I even entered the gates, and looking forward to seeing this overlay, which used to be all about the first film, in person.
Once inside, the transformation was immediate. The everyday turned into Oz with a sense of playfulness, inviting guests to explore the world of Wicked in a completely different way than any fan can expect, as well as those curious to learn more.
Tones of emerald greens, bubblegum pinks, and that unmistakable golden road guide guests forward into the experience, as they step inside the doors with Elphaba and Glinda greeting them from the left and right side of the entrance with their main poster images from Wicked: For Good. It wasn’t simply décor; it felt cinematic, like we’d stepped onto a set built for loyal audiences, curious beginners and and superfans alike.
The overlay features nods to Wicked: For Good, the second film adaptation of Wicked, with vignettes inspired by Shiz University and Emerald City offering theater and cinema lovers a moment of recognition. The experience is theatrical without being self-serious, immersive and packed with playful interactions, as well as original outfits and costumes from the films starring Ariana Grande as Glinda and Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba.
Photo ops proved an immediate hit, especially stations featuring Elphaba’s broom and Glinda’s bubble, where guests across generations lined up to take their shot at Oz-level glam.
No themed experience is complete without unique treats, so those who want a little treat or two inspired by Wicked can head over to Schwab’s Pharmacy for a dessert break. And they will not be disappointed by the offerings there.
The shakes on offer read like candy-coated fan service and are indulgent and surprisingly perfect for a warm Orlando afternoon. Between sips, it was fun to catch the environment, one that buzzed with visitors enjoying some treats and snacks, many coming out with shopping bags full of original merchandise, many which are items only found at this experience at Universal Studios Orlando.
On that front, Universal leaned into both sides of the Wicked universe: Elphaba’s edge and Glinda’s sparkle.
Apparel, jewelry, collectibles, plush, and home accents felt thoughtfully curated rather than tourist-driven, the kind of souvenirs that linger long after the vacation ends, and that are perfect for fans and for those looking to take some fun items home for others as souvenirs as well.
But beyond the visuals and the retail therapy, what lingered most was the vibe. The experience buzzed with genuine joy from the fandom and beyond. The experience is not just a themed one, but it is more of a shared cultural moment.
When I eventually stepped back into the bustle of the main park, that feeling stayed with me, one of happiness after getting to see so many different Wicked things.
If this is the beginning of Universal’s Wicked era, which I hope it is as I look forward to more to come regarding the films, I’ll gladly click my heels and revisit Oz, enthusiasm guaranteed.
Wicked: The Experience is located at Universal Studios Florida, part of Universal Orlando Resort, at 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando. For more information, visit universalorlando.com/web/en/us/things-to-do/events/wicked-the-experience.
