Sometimes we visit theme parks without any rides or purpose. I recently took a trip around the Islands of Adventure, which I have visited hundreds of times since 1999, and felt a mixture of emotion and discovery.
As I strolled through the park’s entrance port, I noticed five pieces of colorful glass embedded in the sidewalk. I guess they were always there, but why did Universal add them after all?—but I don’t remember them. Are they symbolic, like the original five lands of the IOA?
Or are they just cute and scene-setters? The design of Central Florida’s parks is so layered that you can literally walk in and out of the park.
It was reminiscent of the discovery of another port of entry early in the COVID-19 pandemic. It was so quiet that for the first time I could hear the pre-recorded Jailbreak joke by the Christmas store. (It’s still rotating.)
Other recent entries in my mental IOA notes:
• Construction walls are once again missing from the previous Poseidon’s Wrath attraction. Universal Orlando recently applied for building permits in the area, but nothing has been announced and I haven’t been able to scout any action. Visitors could now walk almost to the front door, and most water systems were working. Vegetation is also managed. I took more photos because someday this view will disappear. (Big feet collapsing against the backdrop of Marvel Super Hero Island is a rare sight.)
I came across a family exploring who were distracted by a lizard. “Here, there’s one more thing.” I let them have fun, but in my mind I said, “Here’s one more thing.” “We’re not all from here, right?”
• From some angles, Lost Continent is exactly the same as it was on day one. But even if you mentally quit taking over the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, it’s completely different.
The Poseidon and “The Eighth Voyage of Sinbad” theater buildings still stand, but are vacant. The stores on the ground floor have been relocated, and some stores sell “How to Train Your Dragon” goods. The endless rocky archway still stands, making it a strange and charming resting spot.
The Mythos restaurant and Fire-Eaters Grill have been there since the beginning.
The Mystic Fountain is still there. A 1999 IOA preview of the Sentinel reports that there is a 1,000-year-old soul trapped inside. ” The report also states that the trains of dueling dragons pass “within 12 inches of each other.” Ah, the memories.
• I reaffirmed the last tidbit about the lost continent by watching it online. Sure enough, the merman doll above the entrance to Poseidon’s Treasure Shop has a tail that stretches all the way to the ceiling of the shop.
• Jurassic Park River Adventure looked so fancy that we were reminded that the attraction will be closed for maintenance from January 5th to November 19th. Again, Universal isn’t saying much, but it might seem like a long stint for just regular cleaning.
• Remember the purple wall fad that was based in the Magic Kingdom?When I wandered into the Doctor Doom Fearfall area, I felt a little nostalgic for those days. Because the walls there created an…interesting…red and green mottled background. When that trend comes back, I’ll be ready.
Attraction news and nuggets
• Zoo Boo Bash returns to the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Garden on Saturday. Includes trick-or-treat passes, animal feeding, holiday decorations and food. More information: centralfloridazoo.org
• The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex remains open during the government shutdown. More information: kennedyspacecenter.com
• Discovery Cove, SeaWorld Orlando’s day resort, is offering 40% off for reservations through the end of 2026, but must be booked by October 19, 2025. More information: discoverycove.com
• Orlando Museum of Fantasy offers several Dia de los Muertos activities, including Family Fun Day on November 1, an adults-only evening celebration. Details: moiorlando.com
• Walt Disney World reports special license plate sales across Florida have raised more than $5 million at Make-A-Wish in Central and North Florida. This design was introduced in 2021.
• Disney World is rolling out themed cold brew options at all four theme parks. What catches my eye: Epic Cold Brew Spectacular at Hollywood Studios. It’s topped with a little Indiana Jones-style fedora and cookie butter cold foam. More information: disneyparksblog.com
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