Universal Orlando Reveals Lost Continent Closures, Thunder Falls Transformation, New Joey Fatone Restaurant & More

Universal Orlando has announced a series of upcoming closures and changes across the destination, including a reimagined version of the long-running Horror Make-Up Show, the phased closure of The Lost Continent at Islands of Adventure, and several new dining additions.

In a press release issued Thursday, Universal stated that the Horror Make-Up Show at Universal Studios Florida will temporarily close beginning May 12, 2026, to make way for a reimagined experience, with the updated version of the attraction set to debut later this year.

Universal says the refreshed show will feature “a mix of classic and modern horror properties along with shockingly fun surprises — all while staying true to the comedic and irreverent spirit that guests know and love.”

The temporary closure was first announced earlier this week by the official Universal Orlando Annual Passholder social media accounts.

Meanwhile, sweeping changes are also coming to Islands of Adventure as Universal announced that venues and experiences throughout The Lost Continent will permanently close in phases in the coming months to make way for a new themed land. As part of the project, Universal confirmed that Mythos Restaurant will close in 2027.

Universal first acknowledged upcoming construction activity in The Lost Continent in September 2025. Since then, construction walls have gone up around the former Eighth Voyage of Sindbad and Poseidon’s Fury attractions last month, where demolition work is now underway. However, Universal has yet to announce what will ultimately replace the land.

Elsewhere in Islands of Adventure, Thunder Falls Terrace will close this summer and be transformed into what Universal describes as the park’s new signature full-service restaurant. The rethemed dining location is expected to open in 2027.

Over at Universal CityWalk, Universal announced that Fat One’s Hot Dogs & Italian Ice will open in place of Hot Dog Hall of Fame, which is scheduled to close in July. The new restaurant concept was founded by *NSYNC member Joey Fatone and his manager Joe Mulvihill.

Stay tuned to AttractionInsight.com and follow our social media channels for more Universal news and beyond.