closing

Universal Orlando's official blog has just announced that The Incredible Hulk Coaster at Islands of Adventure will undergo major enhancement and refurbishment work beginning September 8th. And it will not re-open until NEXT SUMMER! There had been rumors that the refurb would happen in stages, reopening the ride during peak times of year, such as Christmas and Spring Break, but now it looks like the entire ride will remain closed for the better part of a year.

Universal says the beloved coaster will be getting some TLC in the form of some great, new enhancements to its storyline, ride vehicles and overall experience. Rumors have the entire queue building being completely rebuilt from the ground up, entire sections of track being replaced, and most importantly, the launch system being upgraded from tires to an electromagnetic (LIM) launch system. This will not only offer a smoother launch, but cost less in maintenance for park operations, without having to replace tires every few weeks. When the Hulk first opened electromagnetic launch systems were not yet up to the task for such a big endeavor, but as time went on the technology has improved, and the time has finally come. I for one am excited to see an updated queue building and improved storyline... Although I may miss the techno-rave party feel in the queue.

See the entire blog release below and stay tuned for more theme park news. ...continue reading →

Universal Orlando officially announced on their blog today that Wet ‘n Wild, recognized as "America's first water park", will be closing December 31, 2016, about 40 years since it opened. The announcement comes as no surprise given the recent news that Universal is building its own water park named Volcano Bay, opening in 2017. Back in 2013 Universal purchased the land around and under Wet 'n Wild. With their own water park opening less than a mile down the road it makes sense that they would close down the older park to avoid competing with themselves. Wet 'n Wild opened in 1977 and has been a staple in mine, and countless others' lives, especially Floridians. As Universal said in their statement, (full text below,) "As America’s first water park, Wet ‘n Wild has been the birthplace of numerous innovations that are now considered a common part of the water park experience." It will be missed. No word yet on what Universal plans to do with the land after it is closed. ...continue reading →