Discover Nintendo-inspired destinations worth a visit
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Nintendo, the beloved video game company, has created immersive shopping experiences and entertainment locations for fans around the world. Here's a guide to some of the most notable Nintendo-themed destinations, both in the United States and beyond.
In the heart of San Francisco, the Nintendo SAN FRANCISCO store in Union Square offers a unique shopping experience. Large-than-life statues of Nintendo characters provide photo opportunities, while exclusive items can be purchased within the store. The store showcases collections from iconic series like Super Mario, Donkey Kong, Mario Kart, and The Legend of Zelda [1].
For those in New York, the Nintendo NEW YORK store in Rockefeller Plaza is a must-visit. This store offers shopping for the latest releases and a wide array of merchandise. The Nintendo Museum, located within the store, showcases the history of Nintendo, from Hanafuda to the Nintendo SwitchTM system, with interactive exhibits and side-by-side products released by Nintendo throughout its history [2].
Outside of San Francisco and New York, notable Nintendo-themed shopping and entertainment locations include Universal Studios Hollywood in Los Angeles, California, and Universal Orlando Resort in Orlando, Florida.
Universal Studios Hollywood features the Super Nintendo World land, which opened in 2023. This immersive area includes themed rides, interactive zones, exclusive merchandise shops, and dining locations inspired by Nintendo characters like Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach. The Character Shop on the Lower Lot offers exclusive Super Nintendo World collectibles and apparel [3].
Universal Orlando Resort offers the Nintendo Super Star Store in Orlando, Florida, which provides a wide range of Nintendo toys, apparel, and merchandise for fans looking to expand their collection beyond just visiting theme parks [4]. Universal’s upcoming Epic Universe theme park (also near Orlando) is noted for including Nintendo-themed experiences, making the Orlando area a growing hub for Nintendo entertainment [5].
In Orlando, visitors can also find SUPER NINTENDO WORLD at Universal Studios. This area includes the dining location Toadstool Café, as well as various themed merchandise locations [6]. It's important to note that SUPER NINTENDO WORLD is also located at Universal Studios, California [7].
A unique experience can be found at the Nintendo Museum, where visitors can make their own Hanafuda playing cards, adding a hands-on element to the historical exploration [8].
In conclusion, whether you're a long-time Nintendo fan or just starting your journey, these destinations offer a chance to immerse yourself in the world of Nintendo, from shopping to entertainment, and everything in between.
[1] Nintendo SAN FRANCISCO Store [2] Nintendo NEW YORK Store [3] Super Nintendo World [4] Nintendo Super Star Store [5] Epic Universe [6] SUPER NINTENDO WORLD [7] Super Nintendo World [8] Nintendo Museum
- Accessories inspired by Nintendo games, such as Mario-themed coasters and Zelda-themed keychains, are available for purchase at the Nintendo SAN FRANCISCO store in Union Square.
- In addition to shops offering the latest Nintendo Switch games, the Nintendo NEW YORK store in Rockefeller Plaza features a Nintendo Museum showcasing the history of Nintendo, including the early years of playing cards known as Hanafuda.
- Animal Crossing-themed home-and-garden pieces, like garden gnomes and bedding sets, can be found at both Universal Studios' Super Nintendo World locations in California and Florida.
- Mario Kart-branded luggage and travel accessories are popular items for fans on the go, available at both the Nintendo SAN FRANCISCO and Nintendo NEW YORK stores.
- For Nintendo enthusiasts interested in lifestyle products, the Nintendo Super Star Store in Orlando, Florida, offers an extensive collection of apparel, including tees emblazoned with retro Donkey Kong graphics and contemporary Super Mario designs.
- The Legends of Zelda-themed home-and-garden items, such as throw pillows and tapestries, can be found at the Nintendo SAN FRANCISCO, Nintendo NEW YORK, and Nintendo Super Star Store locations.
