A new round of changes is unfolding across Universal Orlando, and this photo update captures the latest developments—from closures in Universal CityWalk Orlando to growing construction zones inside Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida.
- Burger King Whopper Bar Closes
- Merchandise Kiosks Removed in CityWalk
- Walls Added Around Croissant Moon Bakery
- Construction Walls Now Up Around Poseidon’s Fury
- Hogwarts Castle Refurbishment
- Construction Work in New York
- Finnegan’s Bar & Grill Refurbishment
- Construction Walls Arrive at Louie’s Italian Restaurant
TOC
Burger King Whopper Bar Closes
Burger King Whopper Bar in CityWalk is officially closed. Universal announced that the restaurant will be replaced with Five Guys, which is set to open later this summer.
Merchandise Kiosks Removed in CityWalk
Some merchandise kiosks in CityWalk across from Bigfire have been removed. While nothing has been confirmed, the removal may be tied to preparation for Category 10, a new bar, restaurant, and live music venue from country music star Luke Combs. The venue is expected to take over this waterfront space, with construction slated to begin this summer and an opening planned for late 2027.
Walls Added Around Croissant Moon Bakery
Construction walls have gone up around Croissant Moon Bakery in Islands of Adventure, suggesting possible facade updates similar to the work taking place next door at Confisco Grille. The restaurant remains open.
Construction Walls Now Up Around Poseidon’s Fury
Construction walls have been installed around the former Poseidon’s Fury attraction in The Lost Continent at Islands of Adventure, signaling that Universal is preparing to accelerate demolition across the land. Earlier this month, walls were added around the former Eighth Voyage of Sindbad theater.
Universal confirmed construction activity in The Lost Continent last year but has yet to share specific details on what’s planned for the area or a timeline for its full closure. For now, dining and select retail locations remain open to guests.
Hogwarts Castle Refurbishment
Hogwarts Castle remains under refurbishment, with work expected to wrap up by Memorial Day weekend. Since our last photo update, some of the scrims have been removed, revealing some of the ongoing work, including sections coated in primer and crews actively painting parts of the castle.
A closer look at the castle shows the painting process. The roof and “stone” blocks are finished with varying hues to create a natural appearance and replicate a weathered effect.
Construction Work in New York
We previously reported that the construction walls in the New York area of Universal Studios Florida were pushed out to cover a larger area, but they’ve since been expanded again, now fully blocking access to the Metropolis Tribune facade and running alongside the 57 Fare food location. They are positioned where the ride station is being built for the upcoming Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift roller coaster.
Elsewhere in the New York area, new construction walls have been put up between Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon and Illumination’s Minion Cafe.
Finnegan’s Bar & Grill Refurbishment
Walls went up last week around a small section of Finnegan’s Bar & Grill on Delancey Street. Over the walls, it’s now possible to see that the interior has been gutted. The restaurant closed in January for renovations and is set to reopen in winter 2026.
Construction Walls Arrive at Louie’s Italian Restaurant
Inside Louie’s Italian Restaurant, part of the dining area has been closed for renovations.
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