Author: Brian Glenn

Brian may be reached at brian.g@insideuniversal.net - Editor-in-Chief

Universal Orlando has updated its website to confirm that Pteranodon Flyers at Islands of Adventure is currently closed for refurbishment through May 14, 2026. As always, refurbishment timelines are subject to change. No additional details have been released regarding the refurbishment. Such closures may be related to maintenance, inspections, or operational adjustments. Stay tuned to Inside Universal for all the latest news on Universal Parks & Resorts and follow along on our forums & discussion boards. Looking to book that EPIC Universal vacation? We recommend using our friends at MEI-Travel to help plan your next trip to Universal Orlando or…

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Here’s a look around at what’s happening at Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood, from March 2, 2026, to March 8, 2026. Universal Orlando Universal Mardi Gras International Flavors of Carnaval begins this Saturday, February 7, and runs daily through Saturday, April 4 – bringing the spirit of New Orleans and carnival celebrations around the globe to the heart of Universal Studios Florida. The popular event features a dazzling parade with vibrant floats, street performers, and tons of beads; live concerts on select nights by top names in music; and an expansive menu of international dishes inspired by New Orleans…

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Universal Studios Hollywood has temporarily closed King Kong 360 3-D on the Studio Tour for a brief refurbishment. Per the official website, the attraction is expected to reopen on March 14, 2026. Please note that these dates are subject to change. No additional details have been released regarding the reason for the downtime. Such closures may be related to maintenance, inspections, or operational adjustments. Stay tuned to Inside Universal for all the latest news on Universal Parks & Resorts and follow along on our forums & discussion boards. Looking to book that EPIC Universal vacation? We recommend using our friends at MEI-Travel to help plan…

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Universal Orlando has extended the temporary closure of Stardust Racers at Epic Universe through March 14, 2026, marking the second adjustment to the ride’s refurbishment schedule. The dual-track launch coaster was originally listed as closed from February 19 – 22, before being extended to February 28. The schedule was updated again yesterday, pushing the reopening date back by an additional two weeks. No additional details have been released regarding the reason for the extended downtime. Such closures may be related to maintenance, inspections, or operational adjustments. As of now, the ride is expected to reopen on March 15, 2026, though…

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Butterbeer Season returns to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Parks worldwide, celebrating the popular beverage inspired by the Harry Potter franchise. The seasonal event runs March 1 through May 31, 2026 at Universal Orlando Resort, Universal Studios Hollywood, and Universal Beijing Resort. At Universal Studios Japan, the celebration will take place from April 1 through May 17, 2026. Butterbeer has become a signature offering within The Wizarding World lands. Originally introduced as a specialty beverage, it is now available in multiple formats, including cold, frozen, hot, and non-dairy versions. Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood (March…

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Here’s a look around at what’s happening at Universal Orlando and Universal Studios Hollywood, from February 23, 2026, to February 28, 2026. Universal Orlando Universal Mardi Gras International Flavors of Carnaval begins this Saturday, February 7, and runs daily through Saturday, April 4 – bringing the spirit of New Orleans and carnival celebrations around the globe to the heart of Universal Studios Florida. The popular event features a dazzling parade with vibrant floats, street performers, and tons of beads; live concerts on select nights by top names in music; and an expansive menu of international dishes inspired by New Orleans…

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UPDATE: 2/26/2026 The closure has been extended until March 14, 2026. Original Story Below Universal Orlando has announced that Stardust Racers at Epic Universe will be closed this week and will remain closed longer than initially scheduled. The dual-track launch coaster was originally listed as temporarily closed from February 19 through February 22, 2026. That closure window has since been extended, with the attraction now scheduled to remain closed through February 28, 2026. No additional details have been released regarding the reason for the extended downtime. Such closures may be related to maintenance, inspections, or operational adjustments. As of now,…

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Universal Orlando has introduced a new multi-day ticket option for U.S. residents that provides six or seven days of park-to-park access to all four of its theme parks. For a limited time, guests can purchase the new weeklong ticket at a special rate equal to the price of a five-day ticket. The new ticket includes admission to Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, Volcano Bay, and Epic Universe with park-to-park access. The launch of the extended ticket aligns with Universal Orlando’s continued positioning as a weeklong vacation destination, offering more than 75 rides and attractions across its four parks, along…

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Country superstar Luke Combs is expanding his Category 10 entertainment brand to Universal Orlando, with plans to open a massive new venue in CityWalk in late 2027. The project is a partnership between Combs and Opry Entertainment Group. The Orlando location will mark the third Category 10 venue, joining the flagship in Nashville, which opened in 2024, and a Las Vegas location set to debut in fall 2026. The approximately 33,000-square-foot, three-story venue will feature live music, food, and spaces inspired by Combs’ music and personal passions. The venue is named after his multi-platinum No. 1 hit, “Hurricane,” a nod to…

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UPDATE: The refurbishment dates have been pushed back and are now scheduled for May 26 to June 9, 2026. Universal Orlando has scheduled Me Ship, The Olive at Islands of Adventure for refurbishment in April 2026. The attraction will be closed for refurbishment from April 19, 2026, until April 25, 2026. Please keep in mind that these dates can change. Stay tuned to Inside Universal for all the latest news on Universal Parks & Resorts and follow along on our forums & discussion boards. Looking to book that EPIC Universal vacation? We recommend using our friends at MEI-Travel to help…

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