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.
-
Sep- 2025 -25 September
Universal’s Islands of Adventure Is on the Chopping Block—Here’s Why
When Islands of Adventure opened in 1999, it was hailed as Universal’s masterpiece. With cutting-edge rides, elaborate theming, and bold lands like Marvel Super Hero Island and Lost Continent, it stood as a rival to anything Disney had. But in 2025, the story is very different. Epic Universe has stolen the spotlight, and Islands of Adventure suddenly looks tired. The once-fresh theming now feels r
Read More » -
24 September
Islands of Adventure Demolition Permit Terminated as Universal Charts New Path
Universal Orlando Resort canceled its Project 555 demolition permit for The Lost Continent, but the opening-day land isn't out of the woods yet (or ever, probably). Universal Orlando Kills Project 555: New Permit Filed for Demolition of Opening Day Land It started with a permit. Then, almost overnight, construction walls popped up in The Lost Continent at Universal’s Islands of Adventure. For casu
Read More » -
24 September
Universal’s Hogwarts Express Will Closure in February: Here is Why
Universal Orlando Resort has revealed that its iconic Hogwarts Express attraction will be temporarily closed for a scheduled refurbishment early next year. According to the official website: “Hogwarts Express will be temporarily closed starting February 9th, 2026 through February 23rd, 2026. The Attraction plans to reopen on February 24th, 2026.” Another Closure on the Horizon The two-
Read More » -
24 September
3 Major Franchises May Transform Universal Orlando Parks Forever
Universal Orlando Resort doesn’t seem interested in slowing down. Epic Universe opened to rave reviews, but insiders already believe the company’s next step could be even bigger. The parks have leaned heavily into blockbuster IP, and that approach has reshaped the conversation about what Universal can accomplish. The question on every fan’s mind: what franchises are about to get their shot at them
Read More » -
24 September
Goodbye Shrek? Universal Unexpectedly Tears Attraction From Park
The green ogre who once anchored a longtime Orlando attraction has seen his presence shrink yet again at Universal Studios Florida. Visitors arriving this summer may have expected DreamWorks Land to deliver new life for the beloved character. Instead, they’re now discovering part of his swamp has already vanished. For decades, Shrek has been a fixture in Universal’s lineup. The character’s introdu
Read More » -
23 September
Woman Slams Universal After Team Members Pulled Her From Mario Kart Ride
A guest at Universal Epic Universe says she left the park humiliated after team members removed her from a popular attraction over her outfit. The incident unfolded after the woman boarded Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, where she claims an accessory was mistaken for something dangerous. TikTok user @gabrielasilent visited Universal Epic Universe in August with an Express Pass in hand. She spent m
Read More » -
23 September
Reported Security Lapse Allowed Guest to Bring Pocket Knife Into Universal Orlando’s HHN
A recent report from a guest at Universal Orlando Resort has raised questions about the effectiveness of security protocols at Halloween Horror Nights (HHN), the park’s high-profile seasonal event. According to the visitor, an older attendee was reportedly able to smuggle a pocket knife into the event by concealing it on his person after being told it was prohibited. The guest, who shared their ex
Read More » -
23 September
Universal Takes Down Iconic Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
A once-iconic part of Universal Studios is no more. Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, once a signature attraction of Universal Orlando Resort, officially closed its doors permanently on August 18, 2025. As construction crews began dismantling the iconic roller coaster, initial reactions ranged from nostalgia to excitement about what might come next. Many park-goers took to social media to express their f
Read More » -
23 September
Reported Break Malfunction Leads to Collision Between Trains at Six Flags
A minor incident occurred on the Goliath roller coaster at Six Flags Over Georgia, according to guests who were on site last weekend. One rider, waiting for the back row, described a situation in which the brakes unexpectedly released during the ride’s brake run, causing a stacked train to roll into the station and collide with a train that was loading passengers. The witness shared their account,
Read More » -
23 September
Two Beloved Islands of Adventure Lands Will Soon Be Gone Forever
Universal Orlando Resort has always been known for bold decisions, and with Epic Universe now open, the company is turning its attention back to its existing parks. That means change is coming—big change. Two lands inside Islands of Adventure may be nearing the end of their run, and while one has been on the chopping block for years, the other could leave guests stunned. Credit: Universal A Park B
Read More »
