The Future - Independent Guide to Universal Orlando 2015 - page 146

center. This hotel is not expected to include complimentary Universal Express Pass unlim-
ited access. Booking information and pricing will be announced at a later date with reser-
vations being accepted from Spring 2015.
Twister to close its doors - Rumor:
In line with the idea that a new attraction will open every year at the Universal Orlando
resort, it appears that in early 2015 (January to be precise) Twister: Ride It Out will be clos-
ing its doors to be replaced by something new. We do not expect the new attraction to be
anything major and it may just be a show if it is to open in time for Summer 2015.
King Kong Expansion - Rumor:
A King Kong attraction has long been rumored for Islands of Adventure but it looks like it
may now be really happening. The area is expected to be a reconstruction of Skull Island
and feature one attraction. The attraction is already under construction with a large build-
ing now being visible behind the Jurassic Park area of the park - ground work began in
Summer 2014. This area is expected to be opened in 2016 for the launch of the new King
Kong film due to be released in summer of the same year.
The Lorax Ride / Smurfs Ride - Rumor:
This is yet another rumored expansion for Islands of Adventure . An email has been cir-
culated by Universal Orlando asking for feedback on a possible Lorax ride. The character
already makes some appearances in the park and there is some logic to the creation of a
ride.Theridewouldbehousedinthe Seuss Landing areaofthepark.Thesurveyalsoasked
about the possibility of a Smurfs ride which presumably would also be in the same area,
or possibly replace E.T. Adventure in Universal Studios Florida . The survey gave both the
ideas of a 3D simulator and a traditional dark ride and asked respondents for their opinions
on each. Although this is merely a survey it does give us some indication of what may soon
be arriving at the theme parks.
Volcano Bay Water Park - Rumor:
Wehavestated earlyinthisguidethatUniversal Orlandoisplanningsomeprettyambitious
plans to expand its offerings, and rival the Walt Disney World resort which is only a few
miles away. Although Universal already owns the land on which Wet 'n Wild sits, it does
not have its own on-site water park with integrated tickets, room charging and other facil-
ities.
This is the reason whyit is appears that Universal Orlando is developing its ownwater park
currently entitled 'Volcano Bay'. Rumors states that the park will come in at about 30 acres