Islands of Adventure will not look the same after this latest announcement. According to confirmed reports from a Universal executive, an opening-day land is on the chopping block.
Islands of Adventure To Bid Farewell to The Lost Continent
Theme park history has taught us one thing: big changes often begin with small announcements.
That’s exactly what just happened at Universal Orlando. In an understated statement, the resort confirmed that construction work will begin soon at The Lost Continent in Islands of Adventure. While the words “site planning” might not sound thrilling, longtime fans know this usually signals a major overhaul—and this time, the rumors are nothing short of massive.
For years, The Lost Continent has stood as one of the park’s original lands, steeped in myth and legend. But with much of the space sitting underutilized since the arrival of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, speculation has swirled about what might take its place. Now, the future feels closer than ever.
Universal Confirms: Construction Is on the Way
Kristen Smith, Director of Public Relations at Universal Orlando, confirmed the news in an email to the Orlando Business Journal:
“In the coming months, there will be construction activity in Lost Continent as part of site planning to ensure the area is ready for any future developments.”
This announcement came just days after Universal filed a permit to demolish 4.9 acres of attractions, shops, and show buildings within the land. While no official replacement has been named, two heavy-hitting franchises have been repeatedly whispered: The Legend of Zelda and One Piece.
Universal Orlando has confirmed that there are construction plans for The Lost Continent at Universal's Islands of Adventure. The construction activity is part of site planning to ensure the area is ready for any future developments. – @BoardwalkTimes on X
Universal Orlando has confirmed that there are construction plans for The Lost Continent at Universal's Islands of Adventure.
The construction activity is part of site planning to ensure the area is ready for any future developments.
(https://t.co/OSiFc5GB7t) pic.twitter.com/2wy7vkx8R5
— Boardwalk Times (@BoardwalkTimes) September 12, 2025
Both properties boast passionate global fanbases, and either one could transform this corner of Islands of Adventure into a must-see destination.
Navigating the Park During the Changes
Construction doesn’t have to ruin your day. In fact, with a little planning, you can still get the most out of your visit while this project takes shape:
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Go early, stay flexible – The morning is still the golden hour for rides like Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and VelociCoaster.
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Expect detours – Pathways between Hogsmeade and Seuss Landing may shift as work ramps up.
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Use the app religiously – Universal’s app updates closures and wait times in real time—your best tool for dodging delays.
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Catch what’s left – Any attractions still operating in The Lost Continent could close at a moment’s notice, so now’s the time to experience them.
Insider Tricks to Watch For
Theme park insiders know that even during construction, Universal has ways of keeping things fun:
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Creative walls – Expect themed construction barriers that often double as photo backdrops for TikTok and Instagram.
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Dining alternatives – With Lost Continent eateries impacted, Mythos may see longer waits. Try hidden gems like Confisco Grille or Thunder Falls Terrace.
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Merchandise teasers – Don’t be surprised if shops begin carrying hints of what’s to come. Universal loves to drop clues months in advance.
Why Fans Are Paying Attention
The closure of The Lost Continent is more than just the end of another park land—it represents a shift in how Universal builds its experiences. Original concepts are being replaced by worlds rooted in pop culture, designed to pull in loyal communities of gamers, anime fans, and movie lovers.
Universal Orlando has given recent closures like Rip Ride Rockit proper farewells. Will The Lost Continent get a similar send-off? I'd love to see familiar faces: Professor Baxter, Taylor Sindbad, Kabab, Princess Amoura Merlin Bandits Out of Time (wishful thinking)
Universal Orlando has given recent closures like Rip Ride Rockit proper farewells. Will The Lost Continent get a similar send-off?
I'd love to see familiar faces:
🔱 Professor Baxter, Taylor
❣️ Sindbad, Kabab, Princess Amoura
🏰 Merlin
🕰️ Bandits Out of Time (wishful thinking) pic.twitter.com/v3pFzsZKHw— Storybook Amusement (@StorybookAmuse) September 12, 2025
For some, this is bittersweet. The land’s original architecture and storytelling will be missed. But for others, it’s a thrilling chance to see beloved franchises brought to life in a way only Universal can deliver.
Add in the fact that Epic Universe is set to open in 2025, and this move shows Universal’s commitment to keeping every corner of its resort competitive. Disney isn’t the only one with big plans—Universal is rewriting the theme park playbook.
The Bottom Line for Islands of Adventure
Universal Orlando rarely tears down an entire land without a blockbuster replacement in mind. Whether the future brings Zelda’s mystical Hyrule or the high-seas adventures of One Piece, fans are standing at the edge of a historic transformation.
One thing is certain: the demolition of The Lost Continent is just the prologue to something much bigger.
