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Opening-Day Land at Islands of Adventure To Be Decimated, Universal Executive Confirms

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Posted on by Emmanuel Detres Leave a comment
Universal Orlando Islands of Adventure

Credit: Universal

It’s confirmed: Universal’s Islands of Adventure is preparing to remove an entire land that has been open since 1999.

A construction worker in a hard hat and reflective vest holds blueprints and talks on a cell phone, juxtaposed with an aerial view of a busy Universal Islands of Adventure amusement park with roller coasters and water attractions.
Image Credit: Inside The Magic

Islands of Adventure Bids Farewell to the Lost Continent: One of the Final Remaining Opening-Day Lands

Theme park fans know that the smallest piece of paperwork can signal the biggest changes. Just a few weeks ago, Universal Orlando quietly filed a permit to demolish nearly five acres of attractions, shops, and shows inside Islands of Adventure. For many casual guests, it’s easy to brush off as “routine construction.” But for die-hard fans, this news carries weight: a beloved yet fading land may finally be on the brink of transformation.

Think about it: how often does a major park commit to tearing down an entire land without something spectacular planned to replace it? History has shown us that when Universal clears this much space, it’s never for something small. From the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to the Jurassic World VelociCoaster, the groundwork always begins with a quiet permit filing—just like this.

So what exactly is happening, and what does it mean for you if you’re planning a Universal trip soon? Let’s dig into the latest updates, explore how to navigate the park during construction, and uncover the insider secrets to experiencing what’s next before the crowds catch on.

Logo of Universal Orlando Resort with a globe in the background. The image showcases exciting attractions at the Universal theme park, including a roller coaster, palm trees, and various themed buildings, all set against a bright blue sky.
Credit: Universal / Inside The Magic

What’s Really Happening at The Lost Continent

Universal Orlando has confirmed that “construction activity” is set to begin in The Lost Continent at Islands of Adventure. Kristen Smith, Universal’s Director of Public Relations, told 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.”

The statement follows Universal’s September 10 filing of a demolition permit for 4.9 acres of the land, covering attraction, retail, and show buildings. While Smith didn’t confirm what’s coming next, fans are buzzing with speculation.

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

Rumors point to two major contenders: Legend of Zelda and One Piece. Theme park insiders, including our friends at @BoardwalkTimes, suggest that one of these powerhouse franchises could be the land’s replacement. Either way, Universal seems poised to bring a globally beloved brand to an underutilized corner of the park.

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)

– @StorybookAmuse on X

A wide shot of the Hulk Coaster and Suess Landing inside of Islands of Adventure at Universal Orlando Resort
Credit: Universal

How to Experience Islands of Adventure During Construction

Big changes can mean big headaches for guests if you’re not prepared. Here are a few tips to help you navigate the park while The Lost Continent undergoes its transformation:

  • Arrive early – With fewer attractions open, lines for headliners like Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and VelociCoaster will move fast in the first two hours.

  • Use the app strategically – Universal’s mobile app will update closures and wait times in real time. Check it often to reroute your day.

  • Look for rerouted pathways – Construction walls often shift guest flow, so expect detours between Seuss Landing and Hogsmeade.

A theme park scene with a large green roller coaster, two tall drop towers, and the Seuss Landing Café near a red and white lighthouse beside a lake under a partly cloudy blue sky. Trees and buildings line the water’s edge.
Credit: Emmanuel Detres at Inside The Magic

Hidden Hacks and Insider Secrets

Frequent Universal visitors already know that construction brings opportunities if you know where to look:

  • Alternate photo spots – As construction walls go up, look for themed murals. Universal often turns them into selfie-friendly backdrops.

  • Foodie detours – With Lost Continent’s eateries affected, Mythos may see longer waits. Try overlooked gems like Thunder Falls Terrace in Jurassic Park.

  • Early merchandise drops – Universal tends to tease new attractions with limited-edition merch months before an official reveal. Keep an eye on shops in Port of Entry.

Velocicoaster at Universal's Islands of Adventure in Universal Orlando Resort at night
Credit: Universal

Why This Matters to Islands of Adventure Fans

The Lost Continent has always been an oddity: a beautifully themed but underused land caught between Hogsmeade and Seuss Landing. Its closure signals Universal’s ongoing strategy of replacing aging, low-performing areas with IP-driven experiences that guarantee massive crowds.

Fans are split—some mourn the unique mythology of The Lost Continent, while others are thrilled at the thought of finally seeing Zelda’s Hyrule or the One Piece Grand Line come to life. Either way, this change highlights a larger truth: Universal is in a nonstop arms race to keep its parks fresh, competitive, and irresistible in the face of Disney’s dominance.

If history tells us anything, Universal never swings small when it comes to expansions. Whether you’re a gamer dreaming of exploring Zelda’s temples or an anime fan eager to sail with Luffy, this construction activity marks the beginning of something big. Stay tuned—because the demolition is just the first chapter in a story that could redefine Islands of Adventure.

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Tagged:Islands of AdventureUniversal Parks

Emmanuel Detres

Since first stepping inside the Magic Kingdom at nine years old, I knew I was destined to be a theme Park enthusiast. Although I consider myself a theme Park junkie, I still have much to learn and discover about Disney. Universal Orlando Resort has my heart; being an Annual Passholder means visiting my favorite places on Earth when possible! When I’m not writing about Disney, Universal, or entertainment news, you’ll find me cruising on my motorcycle, hiking throughout my local metro parks, or spending quality time with my girlfriend, family, or friends.

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