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.

  • Jan- 2025 -
    8 January
    A couple takes a selfie in front of the "Universal Studios Glamor Tram."

    LA Wildfires Force Closure of Universal Studios Hollywood, Park Shares Update

    As wildfires ravage Los Angeles, Universal Studios Hollywood has announced its temporary closure. The Los Angeles area is currently grappling with multiple blazes, forcing tens of thousands to evacuate as firefighters contend with high winds – including gusts of up to 100 mph – and dangerous conditions. Although the park is not directly threatened by the flames, Universal Studios Hollywood and its

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  • 7 January
    Cedar Point coaster

    Unlock Access to Dozens of Theme Parks for Just $190 — Here’s How!

    For many, vacation destinations like Walt Disney World, Disneyland Resort, Tokyo Disney, Shanghai Disney, Hong Kong Disneyland, and Disneyland Paris may seem like the only options, but they’re far from the only theme parks around. In fact, there are more than 600 theme parks across the United States alone! Can you believe it? That’s over 10 parks on average per state! Think of all the roller coast

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  • 7 January
    Mario, Princess Peach, and Luigi pose cheerfully in front of a bright entrance at Super Nintendo World

    For First-Time Since the 00s, Universal Orlando Is Making Some Big Changes

    As Universal prepares for the opening of Epic Universe in just four months, these upgrades hint at Universal’s readiness to handle a new wave of visitors and solidify its place as a leader in the Orlando theme park market. Preparing for Universal Growth: What the Renovations Could Mean Universal Orlando’s parking facilities are a crucial part of its infrastructure, managing the arrival of millions

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  • 6 January
    The Universal globe outside Universal Studios Florida

    Universal Shuts Theme Park Amid Florida Cold Spell

    Volcano Bay at Universal Orlando Resort will be closed for three days this week as colder temperatures sweep through central Florida. The water park will shut down from January 7 to January 9 due to weather that’s more suited for sweaters than swimsuits. This marks the second set of closures in January, with previous shutdowns on January 2, 3, and 4 for the same reason. Temperatures in the Orlando

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  • 5 January
    Dollywood sign

    Dollywood Makes Major Change on Last Day of the Season, Impacts Thousands of Guests

    As the holiday season winds down, Dollywood, the beloved Smoky Mountain theme park co-owned by Dolly Parton, has made a significant operational adjustment on its final day of the season. Thousands of guests were affected by this last-minute change, marking a dramatic conclusion to the park‘s 2024 season. A Landmark Destination for Decades Dollywood has been a staple of Pigeon Forge, Tennesse

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  • 5 January
    Universal Orlando Resort and the Central Florida tourism bubble, which has been struck by the government shutdown.

    Central Florida Theme Parks Increase Competition With Free Child Admission Initiatives

    Central Florida theme park Competition Intensifies Central Florida's theme park landscape is becoming increasingly competitive as major players ramp up initiatives to attract families. Several parks have announced free admission for young children, a strategy designed to lure families away from their competitors. This move comes in response to the upcoming debut of Universal Orlando Resort's Epic

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  • 5 January
    Universal Studios Japan globe and park entrance in Osaka, Japan.

    Fans Devastated as Universal Closes Its Historic Tribute Store Location

    For years, Universal Orlando’s Tribute Store stood as a unique hybrid of retail and entertainment. The ever-changing themed shop became a beloved part of the park’s seasonal traditions. From its eerie Halloween mazes to winter wonderlands packed with exclusive merchandise, the Tribute Store offered more than just souvenirs—it provided an immersive journey through creative worlds. The most recent v

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  • 4 January
    wide view of Universal's Islands of Adventure theme park

    Why Universal Studios May Regret Closing One of Its Most Popular Roller Coasters

    Big things are happening at the Universal Orlando Resort, for better or for worse. Related: New Magic Kingdom Restrictions Now in Place at Walt Disney World Resort In the wake of Universal's announcement regarding the closure of Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, fans are now questioning whether or not they want to see the thrilling roller coaster go. The ride garnered a reputation for offering a unique r

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  • 4 January
    Guests ride a water raft attraction in front of Krakatau at Volcano Bay

    Universal Speaks Out on Park Status Amid Winter Weather Disruptions

    While tourists often flock to Florida expecting high temperatures, winter can get cold—and, in turn, force the closure of some beloved parks and attractions. Case in point: the current situation in Orlando. The Sunshine State is currently going through a cold spell, as it so often does in January. Last year saw Walt Disney World Resort’s Blizzard Beach – which is, ironically, winter-themed – face

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  • 4 January
    The Universal Orlando Resort Globe during a hot, summer day in Central Florida.

    The Future of Universal Orlando Looks Bright: A Total Overhaul Coming to Islands of Adventure?

    Universal Orlando Resort is undergoing a period of exciting change, with the opening of Epic Universe fast approaching. As new attractions rise, others make way for the future—like Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit and Poseidon’s Fury. The latter’s closure and the lingering uncertainty around The Lost Continent have sparked widespread speculation. Here, we explore the possibilities and what might be next

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