Universal Orlando Resort is never content to stand still. With Epic Universe finally open and capturing headlines, the company’s focus has started to shift back to its older parks. That spotlight brings excitement and anxiety because some sections of Islands of Adventure may not survive the next wave of upgrades.
Two lands in particular are at the center of the discussion. One is no surprise to longtime fans, but the other could catch everyone off guard.
Islands of Adventure Today
Since opening in 1999, Islands of Adventure has been designed as a collection of mini-worlds. Each “island” takes guests into a different setting—from the whimsy of Seuss Landing to Jurassic Park’s dinosaurs and Hogsmeade’s magical atmosphere.
The park currently features The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Toon Lagoon, Skull Island, Jurassic Park, Seuss Landing, Marvel Super Hero Island, and The Lost Continent. But not every land has thrived. Some have aged gracefully, while others have been left behind as newer, shinier attractions stole the spotlight.
The Lost Continent’s Struggle
The land most likely to go next is The Lost Continent. Once home to big-ticket shows and attractions, it now feels more like an empty corner of the park. Poseidon’s Fury closed in 2023, and the Sindbad stunt show shut down years ago. What remains is a scattering of outdated shops, one restaurant, and the much-loved but modest talking fountain.
Crowds here are sparse compared to other lands. Many first-time visitors don’t even realize they’ve walked past it without stopping. The Lost Continent feels frozen in time, with Universal pouring resources into different resort sections. Its days look numbered.
Rumors About What’s Next
Speculation about what might replace The Lost Continent has been going strong. Some fans think it could be a new Legend of Zelda experience, building off Universal’s partnership with Nintendo. Others dream of finally realizing The Lord of the Rings as a fully immersive land.
Of course, the practical option is simply expanding Jurassic Park or Seuss Landing, which both sit next door. That wouldn’t generate the same buzz, but it would certainly be easier to implement.
Marvel’s Possible Departure
The bigger surprise comes with Marvel Superhero Island. This land has been part of Islands of Adventure since the beginning, filled with thrilling rides like The Hulk Coaster, Spider-Man, and Doctor Doom’s Fearfall. Its comic-book-style murals and street atmosphere make it one of the park’s most recognizable areas.
But there’s a catch: Disney owns Marvel. Universal can only use these characters in Orlando because of a contract that predates Disney’s acquisition in 2009. That contract is still valid, but if Disney ever regains the rights for Florida, Marvel Super Hero Island could be forced out.
If Marvel Goes…
Fans are already throwing around guesses about what could take Marvel’s place. Pokémon is a strong contender given its global popularity and ties to Nintendo. Sonic the Hedgehog could also be a natural fit, bringing high-speed thrills into the park. Others picture a lighter, family-oriented cartoon world, perhaps inspired by Scooby-Doo.
Whatever happens, Universal won’t leave such prime real estate without a major headliner.
The Road Ahead
With The Lost Continent fading and Marvel Super Hero Island’s future uncertain, Islands of Adventure feels on the edge of another massive transformation. Rumors are swirling, contracts looming, and fans wonder what the next decade will bring.
One thing’s certain: the park you know today won’t stay the same forever.
