Piece of theme park history vanishes as Universal demolishes a cherished attraction

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More than 25 years after it debuted as one ofUniversal Orlando’s most iconic themed lands, the Lost Continent is beginning a phased closure at Islands of Adventure.

Demolition work has started inside the aging land.Footage from a local station’s news helicopter showed an excavator positioned next to a pile of rubble, according to multiple reports.

“In the coming months,venues and experienceswithin Lost Continent will permanently close in phases to make way for a new themed area,�

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“This will include the closure of Mythos Restaurant in 2027,” a statement also noted.

The Lost Continent opened with Islands of Adventure in 1999, helping to define thepark’s early identitywith mythology-inspired architecture, towering stone facades and elaborate storytelling rooted in ancient legends.

Island of Adventure at Universal Orlando

One of Universal Orlando’s most iconic themed lands, the Lost Continent, is beginning to disappear from the skyline at Islands of Adventure, pictured here.(Universal Orlando Resort)

For years, it served as one of theresort’s most atmospheric lands, blending fantasy adventure, cutting-edge effects and live entertainment, according to Universal Orlando.

The area was also home to several fan-favorite attractions.

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The Dueling Dragonsroller coasters— later re-themed as Dragon Challenge after the arrival of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter — were among the resort’s most iconic thrill rides.

They were famous for their intertwined layouts, synchronized dispatches and near-miss elements, per Universal Orlando and Wizarding World history pages.

Hogwarts Castle at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Orlando, Florida

Hogwarts Castle at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Island of Adventure has been extremely popular — it will not shut down.(Getty Images)

Poseidon’s Fury was another signature attraction, drawing crowds with dramatic water tunnel effects, bursts of fire and live actors.

But over the last 15 years, Universal has steadily chipped away at the land.

In 2010, the Dueling Dragons coasters were re-themed as Dragon Challenge as part of the neighboring Wizarding World of Harry Potter expansion, according to Universal Orlando.

That attraction ultimately closed in 2017 to make way for Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, now one of the resort’s most popular rides.

Sunset over Universal Studios Resort in Orlando, Florida

The Dueling Dragons coasters were re-themed as Dragon Challenge in 2010 as part of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter expansion.(iStock)

The Eighth Voyage of Sinbad, a stunt-heavy live show, said goodbye in 2018. 

Poseidon’s Fury closed in 2023, according to Universal Orlando’s retired attractions page.

Mythos Restaurantis expected to remain open through 2027 as part of Universal’s phased closure plan, according to the company press release.

Universal Studios entrance with large globe sculpture and visitors

Universal announced the resort’s famous Horror Make-Up Show at Universal Studios Florida would be temporarily closed.(Universal Studios)

“Universal Orlando Resort is continuing its unprecedented momentum as it prepares for a slate of compelling new guest offerings across the destination, ranging from new themed areas todelicious eateries,�

Universal announced the resort’s Horror Make-Up Show at Universal Studios Florida is temporarily closed to prepare for what the company calls a “reimagined experience.”

The updated production “will showcase a mix of classic and modern horror properties along withshockingly fun surprises.“

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