Outside the Disney Bubble

Disney Fanatic shares news and experiences that unfold outside of the Disney bubble, including news of Disney’s competitors and beyond.

  • Feb- 2025 -
    28 February
    Dollywood entrance sign
    Chloe James
    0

    100+ Changes Confirmed for Dollywood After Entire Theme Park Closure

    Dollywood is reportedly making over 100 changes (yes, 100) before the theme park's reopening. Nestled in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, Dollywood is more than just rides and shows – it’s a full-on celebration of Dolly Parton’s legacy. Opened in 1986, the park blends Southern charm with high-octane thrills, offering roller coasters, live music, and Appalachian-inspired crafts. As its namesake an

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  • 28 February
    An artistic rendering of the Universal theme park entrance with colorful skies. A crowd gathers in front of ornate archways and domes. In the background, a grand building and lush greenery are visible under a vibrant orange and blue sky.
    Emmanuel Detres
    0

    Countdown to Epic Universe Begins—Universal Drops Vital Notice Just 83 Days Out

    Universal Orlando Resort is opening its fourth and most massive theme park yet, Epic Universe, in just 83 days. Some big announcements have just been made. Single Rider Line Now Available for Four Epic Universe Universal Roller Coasters Universal Orlando Resort's highly anticipated Epic Universe park is now making waves with the introduction of Single Rider Lines for several of its attractions. Fo

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  • 27 February
    Families and children in costume pose in front of a large globe with "Universal" written on it, illuminated at night. A mist surrounds the base of the globe, creating a colorful, vibrant atmosphere. Trees and a flag are visible in the background.
    Chloe James
    0

    Universal’s Unforeseen Ride Shutdown Could Lead To Attendance Drop

    Theme park closures are a necessary evil. Rides need upkeep, and while that means temporary shutdowns, it's all in the name of keeping the thrills safe and the experience seamless. But when those closures stretch on longer than expected, fans start to get restless. Universal Studios Japan just threw a curveball at visitors by extending the downtime for two of its beloved attractions. According to

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  • 26 February
    The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Ministry of Magic Epic Universe
    Emmanuel Detres
    1

    Universal Drops Bombshell: Wizarding World Overhaul Announced With Just 72-Hour Notice

    For over a decade, Universal Orlando Resort has enchanted Harry Potter fans with one of the most immersive theme park experiences ever created. A New Era of Magic: Universal Orlando's Next-Generation Wands Since the opening of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade in 2010, guests have been able to step into the world of magic, complete with spell-casting interactive wands. Now, Universal

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  • 26 February
    Universal Orlando Resort and the Central Florida tourism bubble, which has been struck by the government shutdown.
    Emmanuel Detres
    0

    Universal Orlando Faces New Competition as Theme Park Giant Pushes ‘Better Value’ Claim

    In a surprising statement during a recent earnings call, an executive from United Parks & Resorts—the parent company of SeaWorld, Busch Gardens, and other attractions—claimed that their parks provide “a differentiated product” from Universal and “a better value.” This bold claim has ignited discussions among theme park enthusiasts and industry insiders alike. United Parks &

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  • 25 February
    One the left: Mickey Mouse inside of Disney World. On the right: The Universal Orlando Resort globe as Epic Universe dominates amid the government shutdown.
    Emmanuel Detres
    0

    Universal, Disney Theme Park War Goes Worldwide: Lead Imagineer Jumps Ship

    Rumors have sent shockwaves through the theme park industry as reports confirm that Björn Heerwagen, a respected veteran with 16 years at Walt Disney Imagineering, has transitioned to Universal Destinations & Experiences. While both Heerwagen and Universal have yet to make official statements, the chatter among insiders has illuminated this significant shift, indicating potential ramifications for

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  • 23 February
    Rick Lye
    1

    Potential New Airline Fees Could Impact Disney Vacation Budgets

    Rising Costs for Disney Travelers Traveling to Disney theme parks has become increasingly expensive, and families are more financially pressured than ever. With ticket prices soaring and the costs of accommodations and food steadily rising, the total budget for a Disney vacation is on the brink of a significant increase. Families planning trips to iconic destinations like Disneyland and Disney Wor

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  • 23 February
    The Universal Orlando Resort globe spinning around. closure Universal Studios Florida
    Andrew Boardwine
    0

    Universal Drops a Bombshell, Epic Universe Sneak Peeks Could Be Coming

    Universal Orlando Resort is no stranger to offering early access to new attractions, and with Epic Universe set to open in May 2025, many wonder if a preview period will happen. Universal has a track record of allowing select guests, such as team members, passholders, and media, to experience attractions before their grand opening. Given this history, early access to Epic Universe seems highly lik

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  • 22 February
    Disney World's Mickey Mouse stands smiling in front of a luxurious, illuminated hotel with grand architecture and fountains at night, which happens to be Epic Universe in Orlando.
    Emmanuel Detres
    0

    Universal’s Bold $7 Billion Move Challenges Disney World for Theme Park Supremacy

    Universal Orlando’s ambitious undertakings have reached new heights with the introduction of Epic Universe, a monumental $7 billion investment. Universal Orlando’s Bold Move with Epic Universe Universal Orlando’s ambitious undertakings have reached new heights with the introduction of Epic Universe, a monumental $7 billion investment. This new theme park aims to significantly broaden Universal's f

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  • 22 February
    Roller coaster in front of sunset at Six Flags Fiesta Texas
    Chloe James
    0

    Six Flags and SeaWorld Halt Operations Amid Arctic Blast

    The theme park industry has once again been forced to navigate the challenges of extreme weather, with both SeaWorld San Antonio and Six Flags Fiesta Texas shuttering their doors today due to a rare winter storm sweeping through the region. As unexpected closures continue to disrupt operations, both parks, located in San Antonio, Texas, have cited inclement weather as the primary reason for suspen

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