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.
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Apr- 2026 -23 April
Universal Prepares Guests for May Closure That Could Affect Family Experiences
Epic Universe continues to be one of the most talked-about theme park destinations right now, especially as it heads into its first busy summer season. But before that rush fully kicks in, there’s a quick reminder that could make a difference for guests visiting in May. Viking Training Camp in Isle of Berk will temporarily close beginning May 4 and will stay closed through May 22. On paper, that m
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23 April
SeaWorld Is Opening Something in May That Can’t Be Found in Southern California
Southern California has no shortage of theme park options. The competition for guest attention and vacation dollars in that market is as intense as anywhere in the world. Disney, Universal, Knott's Berry Farm, and Legoland are all fighting for the same calendars and budgets. Which means any park adding something new and exclusive to its lineup is making a move worth paying attention to. SeaWorld S
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22 April
Universal’s Latest Change Means Your Phone Is No Longer Optional
Something small has changed at Universal Orlando Resort, but once you notice it, you realize it actually impacts every single guest walking through the gates. The self-service ticket kiosks are gone. No big announcement. No major rollout. Just… gone. In their place? A much more modern solution that relies entirely on your phone. From Physical Tickets to Digital Access For years, those kiosks gave
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22 April
A Surprising Leadership Shift at Six Flags Signals Something Bigger for Guests
There’s a certain rhythm to theme parks that longtime fans can feel—even if they can’t always explain it. It’s in the way operations flow, how rides are maintained, and how experiences evolve over time. For decades, leadership at individual parks has played a quiet but critical role in shaping that rhythm. Now, something is shifting again at Six Flags—and fans are starting to take notice. At first
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22 April
A New Universal Theme Park Deal Has Arrived, but There’s a Catch for Guests
For many theme park fans, planning a trip to places like Universal Orlando Resort or Universal Studios Hollywood isn’t just about picking dates—it’s about finding the right moment. The right deal. The right opportunity to make a visit feel unforgettable rather than routine. Over the past few years, guests have grown more strategic than ever. With rising travel costs and increasing demand, fans are
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22 April
Universal Orlando Begins Clearing Classic Land as New Details Raise Big Questions
A noticeable change is happening at Universal Orlando Resort, and it’s starting to shift how fans feel about one of its classic areas. A land that has been part of the park for years is being cleared out, and while updates are expected, the current direction has raised more questions than excitement. At first, the focus was on what might replace it. Now, attention has turned to the clues being lef
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22 April
Universal Epic Universe Just Added an Exclusive Lounge and Here Is How to Get Access
Most guests walking through the front of Universal Epic Universe on any given day are passing within a few feet of a private lounge they will never set foot inside. It is not hidden behind a secret door or tucked into an unmarked corridor. It is right there near the entrance, next to Club Jupiter, where Universal runs its VIP Tours operation, with a branded entrance sign that reads Visa Lounge Ent
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21 April
Universal Quietly Mocks Disney World With New Park Detail
Something new has appeared at Universal Orlando, and while it might seem minor at first, it’s already getting fans talking. Over at Islands of Adventure, a closed storefront has quietly turned into one of the most talked-about spots in the park—and not because of a reopening. Instead, it’s because of what’s been added to the outside. If you’ve walked through Toon Lagoon recently, you may have noti
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21 April
Universal Releases Exclusive 2026 Passholder Bonuses for a Short Window
Universal Orlando is making a calculated move with its latest Annual Passholder update—and it’s one that feels designed to reward loyalty while also driving immediate visits. Instead of spreading perks out across the year, the resort has bundled a collection of exclusive bonuses into a short, clearly defined window. It’s a different approach, and one that puts the spotlight on timing just as much
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21 April
A Familiar Favorite Is Gone at Universal Orlando—And Fans Are Just Noticing
There are certain places at Universal Orlando Resort that don’t just serve food—they become part of the memory. The kind of spot you stop at after a long day in the parks, where conversations linger and traditions quietly form over years of visits. For many guests, CityWalk has always been more than just a dining and shopping district—it’s the bridge between adrenaline and nostalgia. That’s why fa
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