Universal added Islands of Adventure back in 1999. One of the opening-day lands, Jurassic Park, has brought thrills and chills to millions since the early 2000s.
With seven films in the Jurassic Park franchise, a lovable new character has joined the fun inside the Discovery Center at Islands of Adventure.
Jurassic Park Presents a New Experience at Islands of Adventure
The Jurassic Park gates at Universal’s Islands of Adventure are more than just an entrance—they’re a promise. A promise of roaring beasts, pulse-pounding rides, and that thrilling sense of stepping into another era. Most guests come for the big moments: the drop of the River Adventure, the speed of VelociCoaster, the towering T. rex looming in the shadows.
But every so often, something unexpected steals the spotlight. Lately, parkgoers have been sharing knowing smiles and glancing toward the Discovery Center for a reason that doesn’t appear on any map. There’s no massive animatronic reveal, no towering new predator… just a tiny prehistoric wonder with a big fan following.
Meet Dolores, Jurassic Park’s Newest Resident
This summer, Dolores the Aquilops made her debut inside the beloved Jurassic Park area at Universal Orlando Resort. Her arrival follows the buzz of Jurassic World: Rebirth, the latest film that delighted fans with never-before-seen dinosaurs and cinematic thrills. While the movie wowed audiences, Dolores is winning hearts in a different way—one small, perfectly scaled step at a time.
Dolores has arrived at Universal Orlando! You can now meet her in Jurassic Park at Islands of Adventure!
Dolores has arrived at Universal Orlando! You can now meet her in Jurassic Park at Islands of Adventure! pic.twitter.com/vjqcbORerQ
— Adventuring with Annie (@AnniesUniUpdate) August 2, 2025
Guests have spotted her being carried through the area near VelociCoaster by a Jurassic World handler, stopping to interact with anyone lucky enough to be nearby. It’s a moment that bridges the line between movie magic and living history, and the reactions—especially from children—are pure joy.
How to Boost Your Chances of Seeing Dolores
Because Dolores doesn’t follow a fixed schedule, meeting her is part preparation, part luck. Here’s what helps:
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Arrive before the midday rush – She often appears earlier in the day.
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Position yourself near the Discovery Center – This is where handlers typically begin.
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Keep an eye out during “quiet” moments – She sometimes emerges when other attractions are less active.
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Have your phone ready – The encounter can be brief but unforgettable.
Frequent visitors recommend pairing a VelociCoaster ride with a quick wait in the plaza outside—it’s one of the best spots to catch her entrance.
Insider Observation From Regulars
Park veterans say Dolores sightings are more common on off-peak days, especially midweek when crowds thin out. On slower mornings, handlers may allow extra interaction time, giving you the chance to get photos or even “pet” the little dino.
If you watch from the Discovery Center balcony, you might spot her and her handler before they officially appear in the main guest area—giving you a head start.
Why This Small Moment Packs a Big Punch
Jurassic Park has always delivered grand spectacle, but Dolores offers something different: intimacy. She’s not a massive animatronic or high-speed ride—she’s a personal, tangible piece of the story that fans can connect with.
In an era when theme parks are chasing ever-bigger thrills, this small-scale encounter has fans raving on social media. Instagram posts, TikTok clips, and even casual vacation videos are spreading the word—Dolores might be small, but she’s quickly becoming one of Universal’s biggest new draws.
