Remember when the Williams of Hollywood facade held the Prop Shop? It closed down back in June 2022 and has been sitting with covered windows ever since. I told you about it becoming the new space for the Tribute Stores that are changed throughout the year depending upon the event.

Last night I was at Halloween Horror Nights and I noticed that the lights were on in the shop and that one of the window coverings was off. Being nosy, of course I walked over to take some photos of the interior.

You’ll notice that the separate rooms of the previous store are still intact. It looks quite different without the cash wrap counters, shelving, and merchandise.

The thing to notice here is that there is an incomplete cutout going into the store next door. The store next door is still in operation and it’s The Dark Room. So far, I haven’t heard closing date or possible relocation for it.

A little further up the street and on the other side of The Dark Room is the current location of the UOAP Lounge. This is another location that can be consumed by the new Tribute Store location to make it a much better size for its purpose. I’m sure if they’re going to take it, it will be after The Dark Room connection is made and it’s been gutted.

It would be nice to see Universal make an actual passholder lounge in the style that SeaWorld has. Over there they have a much bigger space with tables and chairs. They also offer complimentary Coca-Cola soda fountains. As the UOAP Lounge is now, there are few chairs and it’s mostly merchandise. Hardly a place to relax or get cooled off.

I think a more permanent location for Tribute Store iterations is a great idea. I think we’re still a long way off from an official announcement, but I’m glad to see it moving along.