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.

  • Jul- 2025 -
    10 July
    The entrances to the different lands at Epic Universe at Universal Orlando

    No Explosives Found: How Universal Is Prepared for Large-Scale Construction

    Universal revealed shocking information about its newest theme park in Florida and the one being built in the United Kingdom. Universal Removed Explosives in Orlando While Removing Ancient Artifacts in the UK Before the lights, thrills, and laughter… there was silence. And beneath that silence—danger. Universal’s upcoming parks in both Florida and the United Kingdom have encountered unexpected and

    Read More »
  • 9 July
    A young woman in a turquoise shirt laughs joyfully on a roller coaster, her hair flying upward. Other riders behind her show excitement and surprise, with blue sky and clouds in the background at Universal Orlando.

    Universal Fans Blindsided by Wave of 2025 Ride Closures

    If you're planning a Universal Orlando Resort trip later this year or next, you’ll want to keep an eye on the closure calendar. Some big-name attractions are stepping out for maintenance. One fan-favorite attraction is about to call it quits for good. Let’s run through what’s closing, when, and what it means for your visit. Routine Maintenance for Fan Favorites A few popular rides are taking short

    Read More »
  • 9 July
    A portal entrance at Universal Epic Universe

    Is This the End of Affordable Universal Vacations? 2026 Plans Suggest So

    Universal’s Epic Universe is the biggest thing to hit Orlando theme parks in years. It features jaw-dropping lands like SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, Dark Universe, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter’s Ministry of Magic. It’s a full-on sensory explosion, and fans love it. But if you’re a Universal Orlando Annual Passholder, there’s one big question on your mind: “Will I get in without buying another

    Read More »
  • 5 July
    Le Spatula SpongeBob SquarePants restaurant Nick Resort Everest Place

    Sneak Peek: Nickelodeon’s New Orlando Hotel Features SpongeBob Dining and Apartments!

    If you were a fan of Nickelodeon’s beloved TV shows in the early 2000s, you may recall the popular Nickelodeon Suites Resort that once stood proudly in Orlando. For years, the hotel was the ultimate family getaway, offering kids a chance to meet their favorite characters, splash around in the water park, and even experience the quirky charm of a Nickelodeon-themed hotel. But after its closure in 2

    Read More »
  • 5 July
    Buildings at Universal Studios Beijing

    Universal Studios Altercation Over Phone Use Goes Viral

    An argument between guests at Universal Studios Beijing this week drew widespread attention after footage of the altercation began circulating online. Though the disagreement did not turn physical, it became the latest in a string of public confrontations at Universal parks in recent years. Tensions in theme parks are not uncommon. While most visits proceed without issue, crowded conditions and lo

    Read More »
  • 5 July
    Two people ride Manta at SeaWorld San Diego

    Ride Closures and Extra Fees Leave SeaWorld Guests Calling It “A Half-Functioning Park”

    SeaWorld has long been a polarizing presence in the theme park industry, caught between its marine-life legacy and a growing portfolio of thrill rides. But today, it faces a new kind of scrutiny—not from activists or documentarians, but from the very people it depends on most: its paying guests. Across social platforms and fan forums, frustrations are boiling over. From unexpected ride closures to

    Read More »
  • 5 July
    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.

    New Data Reveals Epic Universe Poised to Weaken Disney World’s Hold

    Will Epic Universe end up “shutting down” Disney World's stronghold over Central Florida? Epic Universe Is Taking Over Central Florida For decades, one name has reigned supreme in Central Florida tourism: Disney. But now, quietly and powerfully, a shift is taking shape—one that could change the region’s theme park hierarchy for good. What if the next big vacation hotspot in Orlando isn

    Read More »
  • 4 July
    Dick Van Dyke smiles as he looks at the carpet bag from Mary Poppins

    Dick Van Dyke Survives Near-Death Ordeal, Saved by Mysterious Wild Creatures

    Dick Van Dyke has been a beloved figure in Hollywood for decades, known for his roles in iconic films like Mary Poppins (1964) and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (1968). But beyond the fame and accolades, his life has been marked by remarkable moments of both hardship and triumph. As he approaches his 100th year, Van Dyke’s experiences—both the highs and the lows—serve as an inspiration to millions. And

    Read More »
  • 4 July
    Aerial view of Epic Universe lit up at night with colorful fireworks bursting in the sky. Designed by renowned imagineers Ryan Harmon and Joe Lanzisero, the park's dazzling rides and water attractions have surpassed even Universal's standards, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere.

    Don’t Miss Universal’s Epic 4th of July Fireworks Show: Here’s What You’re Going to Love

    Universal Parks has announced a shift in the schedule for its popular July 4th Evening Celebration, now officially set to begin at 9:00 p.m. This change comes as the event, a favorite among park-goers, will focus on the standard closing show with a special fireworks presentation marking the grand finale of the evening. Revised Timing and Special Focus on Fireworks This year’s 4th of July festiviti

    Read More »
  • 4 July
    Concept art for Universal Studios Great Britain

    Universal Confirms New Update for Next Theme Park Resort, Will Divide Fans

    Big things are happening at Universal Destinations & Experiences, and now, the spotlight shifts across the Atlantic. Universal has officially confirmed its intent to open an all-new theme park resort in Bedfordshire, United Kingdom. On June 25, 2025, the company shared a letter detailing its ambitious vision: a resort featuring multiple themed lands, immersive entertainment offerings, guest accomm

    Read More »