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.

  • Mar- 2025 -
    13 March
    Universal Epic Universe concept art

    After Guest Backlash, Universal Changes Epic Universe Entry System

    Epic Universe is about to change the Orlando theme park game — and Universal Orlando Resort just dropped a ticketing update that could reshape how guests experience the highly anticipated park. Opening May 22, Epic Universe will be Universal’s third gate, promising a bold new level of immersive entertainment. From the spellbinding Ministry of Magic in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to the cos

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  • 13 March
    Dragon roller coaster at Playland

    Historic California Theme Park Calls It Quits Months Before 70-Year Celebration

    California’s theme park scene has always been larger than life, with giants like Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farm, and Six Flags Magic Mountain. But tucked away in Fresno’s Roeding Park, Playland carved out its own slice of magic. For nearly 70 years, it stood as a quiet, beloved destination for families seeking simple, old-fashioned fun. Now, that era is coming to an end. Playland has announced it

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  • 13 March
    The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Ministry of Magic Epic Universe

    New Ticket Option Now Available for Epic Universe

    Epic Universe's opening day is right around the corner. Related: Disney Park Guests Are Tossing Cash Into This Attraction—But Why? Single-day tickets for Epic Universe are now finally available for purchase, marking a thrilling new phase for future visitors. This development gives guests the opportunity to experience all that the new Universal theme park has to offer without committing to multi-da

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  • 12 March
    Aerial view of an illuminated theme park at night, showcasing various attractions such as a Ferris wheel, water rides, and whimsical buildings. The park is surrounded by a dense forest, enhancing its vibrant and colorful appearance at Epic Universe at Universal Orlando Resort.

    Epic Universe’s Dark Universe to Feature Exclusive Monster Interactions

    Universal Orlando is preparing for one of its biggest expansions ever with the opening of Epic Universe in May 2025, and the excitement just keeps building. This massive new theme park will introduce guests to five uniquely themed lands, each packed with cutting-edge attractions, immersive experiences, and fan-favorite characters. While Super Nintendo World and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

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  • 11 March
    Guests ride Viper at Six Flags Magic Mountain. Six Flags Magic Mountain X2 fire

    Iconic 54-Year-Old California Theme Park Ceases Operations Today

    A major theme park in Southern California has been forced to close its gates today. Six Flags Magic Mountain, a staple in Valencia, California, has long been known for its thrill rides and expansive roster of roller coasters. From Batman: The Ride to Tatsu, the park is a prime destination for adrenaline junkies. This year has been rough so far for the park, with the wildfires that blazed through S

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  • 11 March
    Jurassic World – The Ride at Universal Studios Hollywood, temporarily closed for refurbishment until its scheduled November 2026 reopening.

    A New Era for Universal Studios: Horrible Ride Gone for Good

    The closure of Fast & Furious—Supercharged marks the end of an era for Universal Studios Hollywood. The End of This Hated Ride at Universal Studios Originally launched in 2015, this high-octane ride was designed to serve as the grand finale of the studio tour, providing an immersive 3D experience that promised to thrust visitors into the heart of the beloved Fast & Furious franchise. However, as t

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  • 10 March
    Simon Fisher Becker as the Fat Friar in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone

    ‘Harry Potter’ Star Tragically Passes Away at 63

    It is with deep sadness that we report the passing of Simon Fisher-Becker, a beloved actor known for his iconic roles in Harry Potter and Doctor Who. Simon, who passed away on March 9, 2025, at the age of 63, leaves behind a rich legacy of memorable performances on both the big and small screens. He was a cherished figure in the fandoms of both Doctor Who and Harry Potter, and his death has been m

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  • 9 March
    Universal Epic Universe concept art

    A Crucial Fix Is Underway for an Epic Universe Attraction

    Universal Orlando’s highly anticipated Epic Universe is in the midst of attraction testing ahead of its grand opening in 2025, but one of its most thrilling coasters, Stardust Racers, recently hit an unexpected snag. A coaster train stalled in a valley between two track elements and needed the assistance of a large crane to be repositioned. While some initially speculated that the situation was pa

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  • 9 March
    A large Snoopy statue stands at the entrance of Six Flags California, where theme park security ensures a safe experience for visitors. People walk by, vibrant roller coasters twirl in the background, and a sign welcomes guests to the "Six Flags California Gift Shop.

    Six Flags Weighs Options for Selling Underperforming Parks

    Six Flags' Strategic Review Process Six Flags Entertainment has initiated a strategic review process, as CEO Richard Zimmerman noted in a recent quarterly meeting. He indicated that the company had completed an initial assessment and pinpointed properties that do not align with the organization's long-term growth objectives. This could lead to the divestment of certain parks deemed less strategic.

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  • 9 March
    Dolly Parton in front of the Dollywood sign

    Epic Universe Aims to Compete With Dollywood in Theme Park Experience

    Epic Universe's Bold Ambitions Epic Universe, Universal's latest venture, is gearing up to set new standards in the theme park industry. By emphasizing immersive experiences and groundbreaking attractions, it aims to capture the interest of locals and tourists. Built on the idea of redefining what a theme park can be, Epic Universe seeks to offer visitors unique interactions and entertainment unli

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