After 8 Years, Universal Confirms Permanent Change for All Visitors

It’s a new day for Universal Studios.

Aerial view of Volcano Bay — Credit: Universal

Guests have seen lots of changes at Universal Orlando Resort in the last few years. From ride closures to complete overhauls of classic locations, it’s clear change is incredibly important for Universal Studios and its suite of theme parks.

This year has been especially monumental for Universal Orlando, with the resort welcoming its third theme park, Epic Universe, in May. Announced back in 2019, fans have been eagerly awaiting this massive new expansion, and so far, it’s been a huge hit.

Featuring a number of new rides and attractions ranging from slow-moving, family-friendly experiences to thrilling roller coasters, Epic Universe hasn’t just set a new bar for the Universal Studios theme parks, but the industry as a whole.

This summer also marked the end of an era for Universal Studios Florida, with fans saying their last goodbyes to Rip Ride Rockit. The roller coaster had served as an icon of the park for years, though it was certainly in need of some TLC. Universal Studios plans to completely demolish the former ride and build something new in its place.

Amid all this hustle and bustle, guests may not have realized that other things have changed around the resort, specifically at Volcano Bay.

Universal Ends TapuTapu Service

Guests at Universal’s Volcano Bay – the innovative water theme park set to open on May 25th – will experience an entirely new level of freedom and fun as they enjoy the park with friends and family. The waterproof TapuTapu wearable will enhance fun and remove hassles - there will be no more standing in long lines to experience an attraction; no more carrying wallets, cash or credit cards throughout the park; and no more fumbling for a locker key. — Credit: Universal

Earlier this year, Universal announced operational changes for Volcano Bay. The tropical-themed water park will close for a lengthy refurbishment beginning in October 2026 and will reopen by March 24, 2027.

However, this wasn’t the end of the update. Universal also confirmed that TapuTapu and virtual line would no longer be available to use at Volcano Bay starting October 1, 2025. This means guests visiting Volcano Bay this week are the first to experience the water park without this perk.

Volcano Bay’s TapuTapu bracelet would also interact with specific locations around the water park.

TapuTapu was a wearable device that will look and feel similar to those who have used MagicBand at Disney’s theme parks. The system was designed to cut down on the time spent waiting in line at Volcano Bay, as the wearable wristband allowed visitors to hold their spot in virtual lines for attractions.

Volcano Bay opened in May 2017 and features a number of water slides and other attractions. Not only does the park give Universal Orlando more variety, but it also helps it compete with Walt Disney World’s two water parks, Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon.

Are you visiting Universal Studios this year?