Universal Orlando is getting a massive new neighbor. Luke Combs and Opry Entertainment Group just announced they’re building a huge “Category 10” entertainment venue right at CityWalk. It’s going to be a three-story, 33,000-square-foot spot replacing some of the older shops along the water.
Construction starts in summer 2026, and they hope to open the doors by late 2027. If you’ve been to the one in Nashville, you know the vibe. It’s not just a place to grab a beer; it’s a full-on country music hub with live stages and a lot of Luke Combs’ personal touch. For the Disney and Universal regulars who usually head to the parks for movie magic, this is a big shift toward a more “Nashville-style” nightlife on property.
The Three-Story Setup at CityWalk
The new building will sit right on the lagoon. It’s taking over the space where some of the merchandise kiosks are now, near the bridge that leads to Islands of Adventure. This is a brand-new build, not just a paint job on an old building.
What’s Inside the Venue
The layout is based on Luke’s life and his music.
- The Main Stage: This is where the big shows happen. They’re planning to bring in touring country acts, not just local cover bands.
- The Waterfront Deck: A spot on the top floor to look out over the Universal globe and the water.
- The Sports Bar: A nod to Luke’s love for the Carolina Panthers and high-energy game days.
Here’s the thing: CityWalk has been missing a dedicated, high-tier live music venue since Hard Rock moved its main concerts to the bigger hall. This fills that gap. It’s a place for people who want to keep the party going after the parks close at 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM.
Universal is expanding fast with the new Fast & The Furious Roller Coaster coming in 2027, and Epic Universe opened almost a year ago. But they also need to fix the “nightlife problem” at the original resort. Right now, if you aren’t at CityWalk to see a movie or eat at a chain restaurant, there isn’t much to do late at night.
The Move Toward Country Music
Opry Entertainment Group already runs “Ole Red” at Icon Park on International Drive. Bringing Category 10 to CityWalk shows that country music is huge in Orlando right now. It appeals to the same families who visit Disney but want something a bit more “grown-up” in the evening.
More Than a Restaurant
Unlike some of the other spots at CityWalk that feel like “themed dining,” this is an entertainment complex. You can go there just to watch a game or dance. You don’t have to sit down for a three-course meal to enjoy the space.
Final Thoughts
The addition of Category 10 is a smart move for Universal. It gives people a reason to stay on the property instead of heading to Disney Springs or International Drive for entertainment. It brings a bit of that Nashville “Broadway” energy to Orlando, which is something the city hasn’t really had inside the theme park bubble.
For fans of Luke Combs, it’s a massive win. You get to experience his brand of country music without having to travel to Tennessee. We’ll have to see if the crowds can handle a “Category 5” storm at the parks, but for now, it looks like a solid addition to the skyline.
What do you think? Are you going to trade your Mickey ears for a Luke Combs hat when this opens? Let us know in the comments and share this with your friends who love country music!
Luke Combs Is Bringing His Category 10 Bar to Universal Orlando CityWalk
Who Is Luke Combs?
If you aren’t familiar with Luke Combs, he’s basically the biggest name in country music right now. He grew up in North Carolina and didn’t even start playing guitar until he was 21. After dropping out of college to move to Nashville, he hit it big with his first single, “Hurricane.”
What makes Luke different is how normal he seems. He’s often seen on stage wearing a simple fishing shirt and a ball cap, which is why his fans (the “Combs Army”) relate to him so much. He is not vocally political, and seems more like an everyman than a out of touch rock star.
