Universal Orlando Resort, one of Florida’s biggest theme parks, is closing several areas – including one of its oldest attractions – to make way for ‘reimagined’ experiences in coming years, with major changes expected in 2026 and 2027.
New themed areas and ‘delicious eateries’ are on the way at the Florida resort – including a hot dog and Italian ice spot founded by NSYNC member Joey Fatone.
In order to make room for fresh attractions, the theme park has confirmed several fan-favourite areas are set to close – some permanently.
After running since 1990, the iconic Horror Makeup Show – held in the Pantages Theatre – will temporarily shut for a ‘reimagining’ this month, holding its final performance on May 12.
It marks the end of an era for the interactive show, which sees members of the audience brought on stage to recreate special effects and makeup techniques used in classic horror films.
Universal Orlando Resort has announced several fan-favourite attractions and areas will close temporarily and permanently to make room for ‘reimagined’ experiences in 2026 and 2027
The revamped experience, which opens later this year, will showcase a combination of ‘classic and modern horror properties along with shockingly fun surprises’ while ‘staying true to the comedic and irreverent spirit that guests know and love’.
Lost Continent, an original themed land in Islands of Adventure dedicated to ancient Greek gods, mythical creatures and talking fountains, is set to be consigned to the theme park history books.
Fans and visitors had speculated the attraction’s future after noticing construction blocking access to the old Eighth Voyage Of Sinbad show area in April, sparking rumours about what might be replacing it, as reported by Inside Universal.
Although Universal has not announced an official ‘last day’ for the The Lost Continent, it has confirmed that venues and experiences – including Mythos Restaurant – will close for good in phases over the coming months.
Plans for a new themed area are in the works, with more information to follow.
This summer, Thunder Falls Terrace, a barbeque restaurant based in Universal Islands of Adventure, will close temporarily before it’s transformed into a rethemed dining concept.
It will become the new signature, full-service restaurant in Universal Islands of Adventure when it debuts in 2027.
In addition, a range of fresh, exciting eateries are set to join over 100 existing dining locations at the resort.
Lost Continent, a beloved land dedicated to ancient Greek gods and mythical creatures, will close for good to make way for a new revamped area
The Hot Dog Hall of Fame, located in Universal CityWalk, will close in July to make way for Fat One’s Hot Dogs & Italian Ice.
Founded by NSYNC member Fatone and his manager Joe Mulvihill, the restaurant features a variety of hot dogs alongside Italian gelato.
The resort announced additional details that will be shared in the months ahead as work gets underway.
The Daily Mail has contacted Universal for comment.
Other new updates and experiences previously announced include Five Guys and country star Luke Combs’ live-music restaurant Category 10, both of which are scheduled to come to Universal CityWalk.
Earlier this year, the resort unveiled a blockbuster attraction set to join the Universal Studios Florida family in 2027 – and it’s good news for thrill-seekers and motorheads alike.
Coming soon is Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift – a high-speed rollercoaster that promises to put riders in the middle of the action made famous by the movie franchise.
Riders will experience the exhilarating sensation of 360-degree ‘drifting’ in individual vehicles as they accelerate through heart-stopping manoeuvres at speeds of up to 72mph.
The high-octane ride, which replaces the former Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit roller coaster, also includes a 170-foot vertical ‘spike’ that propels guests around 60 metres in the air over the outskirts of Universal CityWalk.