
Since its debut in 2016, Skull Island: Reign of Kong at Universal Orlando has provided visitors with an exciting journey into the heart of Skull Island, featuring larger-than-life creatures and breathtaking special effects. Originally, the attraction featured an outdoor queue that immersed guests in the island’s dense jungles before stepping into the ride building. This outdoor portion added to the overall anticipation, with immersive soundscapes, mist effects, and intricate theming that made guests feel like they were truly venturing into unknown territory. The experience was heightened when guests were handed 3D glasses before boarding their expedition vehicles, enhancing the ride’s visual elements and creating a sense of being right in the middle of the action.
Over the years, Universal Orlando made several changes to the attraction, shifting to a fully indoor experience. The outdoor queue area was removed, and guests now enter the ride building directly, which has improved efficiency and reduced potential weather-related delays.
Additionally, the use of 3D glasses was phased out in favor of high-definition screens and enhanced practical effects that provide an immersive experience without the need for additional accessories. This adjustment has been welcomed by many visitors who previously found the glasses cumbersome or distracting. Despite the change, the attraction continues to thrill guests with its intense action sequences and the impressive animatronic King Kong that delivers a memorable finale.
Recently, construction walls and scrims have been spotted outside the attraction, sparking speculation among parkgoers. Reports suggest that Universal is working on updates to the exterior facade, potentially bringing back some elements of the original outdoor theming. Crews have been observed making adjustments to pathways and scenery, leading many to believe that additional enhancements may be on the way to further improve the overall guest experience. Universal’s attention to keeping its attractions fresh and exciting is evident in these ongoing efforts to refine Skull Island: Reign of Kong.
There is a scrim covering the outside of Kong. Are they smoothing out the outside portion? pic.twitter.com/EOXCUiNI9u
— Jake Coasters (@jake_coasters) January 25, 2025
Despite the changes, the attraction remains a popular draw at Islands of Adventure. Whether guests experienced the ride in its original form with 3D glasses or in its current version without them, the adventure continues to captivate audiences with its mix of thrilling visuals and heart-pounding encounters. As Universal continues to evolve its offerings, Skull Island: Reign of Kong stands as a testament to the park’s commitment to innovation and guest satisfaction.