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Universal Orlando to Revamp Volcano Bay and Close Rides

10/3/2025

27 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Universal Orlando will discontinue TapuTapu at Volcano Bay on October 1, 2025.
Removal raises crowd-management and guest-experience questions at Volcano Bay, previously wristband reservations.
Volcano Bay refurbishment planned October 2026 through March 2027 to boost quality.
Jurassic Park River Adventure will close January–November 2026 for a major overhaul.
Starbucks at Universal CityWalk reopened with mobile ordering.

History

Historical Context

Universal Orlando opened Volcano Bay in 2017, featuring the innovative TapuTapu system for managing crowds. This system allowed guests to reserve attractions, enhancing their experience. However, the planned discontinuation of TapuTapu in 2025 raises concerns about crowd control, echoing challenges faced by Disneyland in the 1950s. The 2026 refurbishment aims to improve operational efficiency and visitor satisfaction.

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Story summary

Universal Orlando will discontinue TapuTapu at Volcano Bay on October 1, 2025.
Removal raises crowd-management and guest-experience questions at Volcano Bay, previously wristband reservations.
Volcano Bay refurbishment planned October 2026 through March 2027 to boost quality.
Jurassic Park River Adventure will close January–November 2026 for a major overhaul.
Starbucks at Universal CityWalk reopened with mobile ordering.

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