The U.S.’ first Super Nintendo World opened in 2023 at Universal Studios Hollywood, introducing California theme park goers to the Mushroom Kingdom. With groundbreaking attractions and next-level immersion — all fueled by nostalgia — it charted a new course for the once-stagnant Los Angeles theme park.

More than eight years in the making, Epic Universe ups the competition with neighboring Disney World and gives theme-park fans everywhere a new destination for their bucket list.

Susan Cummings, from Spencer, Tennessee, said she's surprised at how emotional visitors are when visiting the Super Nintendo World she helped build