Are your kids (or you) big fans of Nintendo and all things Mario? Then they’ve probably been saying “let’s a-go!” ever since Super Nintendo World™ opened at Universal Studios in early 2023. Our family has been twice so far and are already looking forward to our next visit. As a mom to seven little ones of various ages, I’ve been trying to think of all the things I want to share with you about this special experience. Keep reading for all our best tips for Super Nintendo World, including one that most people don’t seem to be talking about and some common misinformation! This information is current as of our family’s September 2023 trip. Because this is a new area for Universal Studios Hollywood protocol for Super Nintendo World is constantly changing. As a Get Away Today partner, some links contain affiliates.

tips for Super Nintendo World

do you need reservations for Super Nintendo World?

There is no easy answer to this question because you may need reservations, but probably not. When Super Nintendo World first opened demand was so high that you either had to purchase early entry (still available) or try and get a reservation when you entered the park. There was a third way to ensure entry also and that was with a reservation at Toadstool Cafe™. We’ll get into that more later.

Now demand has died down somewhat and the busy summer season is over. So there’s a good chance you won’t need a reservation. I recommend you download the Universal app. It will tell you if a virtual line reservation is available or not. It there’s no virtual line available then either they’re gone for the day (unlikely), or they’re not needed at that point. Keep in mind that this can also change throughout the day.

is buying a Power-Up Band™ worth it?

Again, this question is a little hard to answer because what’s “worth it” to one individual, might not be to another one. However, you should know that a Power-Up Band definitely enhances your Super Nintendo World. Since there is only one ride in the area, most of the activity revolves around interactive tasks you can complete while wearing your band.

The nice thing is, your Power-Up Band doubles as an amiibo™, so the fun doesn’t stop when you leave the park! If you have a Nintendo Switch at home you can use your amiibo to unlock levels, level up your character, or get special extras that you wouldn’t normally have in the game. Due to the versatility of the Power-Up Band, I actually think this is one of the best souvenirs you can get at Universal Studios. Bands can be purchased at many retailers throughout Universal Studios, as well as the Super Nintendo Store at Universal City Walk. Right now, they also have a limited edition gold power up band to celebrate the one year anniversary of Super Nintendo World.

should we eat at Toadstool Cafe in Super Nintendo World?

On our first visit to Super Nintendo World we were able to eat at Toadstool Cafe. I’m glad, but I do have mixed feelings. Our family tried a variety of dishes and we all thought the food was very good. However, even with our reservations it was a huge time suck of our park day. We had to wait in line to be let in, then wait in line to order, then wait in line to be sat, then wait for our food… it was just all very slow. I’ve heard from other people that their experience with the service was completely different. So it might just have been an off day.

The ambiance is very fun so if you decide you want to eat there you should know that due to the popularity of the location, you will most likely need a reservation. Contrary to what many people will tell you, you do NOT have to wait until you’re in the park, although you can. You can actually make reservations in the morning before arriving via the link above. One site I found said that reservations usually open between 7:00 and 8:00 am. However, I was on the page refreshing at around 6:55 am on our way to the park and reservations became available.

| Click here for the menu and to make reservations. |

Reservations at Toadstool Cafe will also guarantee your admittance to Super Nintendo World if they’re implementing a virtual line queue for the land. Also note, they can sell out of popular food and drink items so if you have a reservation later in the day you might not be able to get what you want.

what do I need to know if I’m bringing a baby?

Super Nintendo World is an incredibly fun and immersive area of Universal Studios Hollywood. However, you should note that it is very small. As such, they do not allow strollers inside. You will have to park your stroller outside the area in designated stroller parking near the Transformers 3D ride. And since you’re supposed to enter the land one direction, and exit another, you will not be exiting near where you parked your stroller. So bring anything you may need for baby (i.e. diapers) with you.

I have found that Universal Studios in general is not super stroller friendly, so I recommend bringing something to babywear. I use a LÍLLÉbaby Complete All Seasons carrier and I love it. You can wear it on the front, hip, or on your back for kiddos up to 45 pounds! This carrier will definitely come in handy in Super Nintendo World. Especially if you choose one with a shade cover (like the LÍLLÉbaby) because there is also not a lot of shade in the area.

more tips for Super Nintendo World

• Make the most of your time by utilizing the single rider line for Mario Kart™: Bowser’s Challenge. This is the only ride in Super Nintendo World and the line will get quite long. The queue is interesting with lots to look at. However, if your party is willing to be split up it can save a lot of time. The minimum height is 40″, but if your child is at least 48″ they can use the single rider line.
• If you purchase a Power-Up Band, don’t forget to wear it on Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge. It will keep track of your score as you ride and play!
• One more tip for those who purchase a Power-Up Band–when you buy one it doesn’t come with a white “lock”. However, you can ask for one in any shop that sells them. This will help it stay on your wrist, especially the smaller wrist of a young child. You can typically just ask at the checkout and they’ll hand one right over to you.
• Make sure if you’re playing the interactive games you play at least three before attempting the Bowser Jr. Shadow Showdown challenge. You don’t want to get in line for that and then find out you haven’t met the requirements to participate.
• If you have a Universal Express Pass or VIP privileges, you will have reservation free entry into Super Nintendo World once per day (after 3pm for Platinum Pass members) when reservations are required to enter the land.
• If your kids love meeting characters, they’ll have several opportunities in Super Nintendo World. Toad, Princess Peach, and Mario and Luigi all have special spots where they greet guests. You can find times in the Universal Studios app.

Will you be visiting Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood?