Universal Orlando Resort continues making major changes across its theme parks, and another longtime area of Islands of Adventure is getting attention.
Construction has already transformed portions of the resort, with familiar attractions closing and new projects moving forward.
Now, Toon Lagoon is undergoing improvements of its own, with construction walls affecting portions of the original themed land.
However, the changes aren’t limited to construction.
Universal is also closing one of Toon Lagoon’s most popular attractions earlier than the rest of Islands of Adventure, creating another scheduling challenge for guests visiting during the busy Columbus Day holiday week.
Universal Begins Making Changes to Toon Lagoon
Toon Lagoon has entertained Islands of Adventure visitors since the park opened in 1999.
The land celebrates classic comic-strip characters, including Popeye, Olive Oyl, Betty Boop, and Dudley Do-Right, through colorful buildings, oversized decorations, and water attractions.
After more than 25 years, portions of the area are receiving a much-needed facelift.
Construction walls have appeared around the carnival-games section, affecting the walkway connecting Toon Lagoon with Marvel Super Hero Island.
Guests have been directed through an alternate route near the Toon Lagoon Amphitheater while work continues.
Although Universal is replacing and updating portions of the existing area, the company hasn’t announced plans to permanently retheme Toon Lagoon.
The construction comes as Islands of Adventure continues experiencing other major changes.
The Lost Continent is undergoing demolition work, while Jurassic Park River Adventure remains closed for an extensive refurbishment scheduled to continue until December 16, 2026.
With those projects already affecting the park, Toon Lagoon’s latest changes add another adjustment for visitors.
Universal Closes Popular Water Ride at 6 P.M.
Interestingly, Toon Lagoon’s construction isn’t the only development affecting the area.
Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges has been scheduled to close at 6:00 p.m. on multiple October dates, despite Islands of Adventure remaining open until 8:00 p.m.
The nearby Me Ship, The Olive play area has also been listed with a 6:00 p.m. closing time.
That means guests could lose two hours of access to these experiences, even during the busy Columbus Day holiday period.
The decision is particularly noticeable because Jurassic Park River Adventure remains unavailable, leaving fewer major water attractions operating.
Universal hasn’t publicly explained the earlier closing times.
Meanwhile, Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges is scheduled for another closure beginning January 4, 2027, with its refurbishment expected to continue through February 2.
For now, guests hoping to enjoy Toon Lagoon’s water attractions should plan their visits earlier in the day and check Universal’s official operating schedule.
With construction continuing throughout Islands of Adventure, additional changes could still be ahead.
