Universal Studios Florida Transforms Entire Land Into Immersive Jaws Amity Island

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May 31, 2026

Universal Studios Florida Transforms Entire Land Into Immersive Jaws Amity Island

You’re Gonna Need a Bigger Summer: Amity Island Returns to Universal Studios Florida

Just when you thought it was safe to walk through San Francisco at Universal Studios Florida, Amity Island has returned. Universal has once again transformed the park’s San Francisco waterfront into “Little Amity,” a summer-long celebration of the original Jaws film packed with themed food, merchandise, props, photo opportunities, and enough Easter eggs to keep shark fans circling for hours.

The temporary overlay takes over Richter’s Burger Co., Chez Alcatraz, and the San Francisco Candy Factory, turning the entire area into a Fourth of July celebration straight out of the 1975 blockbuster.

Guests are welcomed by an Amity Island sign before discovering movie props, themed décor, shark-themed inflatables, nautical details, and references hidden throughout every corner of the land.

One of the biggest highlights is the tribute to the beloved Jaws attraction that operated at Universal Studios Florida from 1990 to 2012. Guests can climb aboard a Captain Jake’s Amity Boat Tours photo op inspired by the original ride vehicles, pose with the famous Orca fishing boat, and snap photos with Bruce the Shark, who still hangs proudly over the waterfront.

Inside the San Francisco Candy Factory, fans will find Jaws merchandise, movie memorabilia, prop displays, and countless references to the classic film. Meanwhile, Richter’s Burger Co. has received perhaps the most extensive makeover, featuring themed dining rooms, original storyboard artwork, movie-inspired decorations, collectible displays, and specialty menu items including the “We’re Gonna Need a Bigger Boat” burger and the “Shake Attack” milkshake.

Chez Alcatraz is also joining the celebration with specialty beverages like The Great White and Amity Island Iced Tea, available in both alcoholic and non-alcoholic versions.

While last year’s Jaws tribute was popular, this year’s version feels significantly more immersive, transforming nearly every inch of the waterfront into a love letter to one of Universal’s most iconic films and attractions.

For longtime fans, it’s the closest thing to stepping back into Amity Island without boarding a boat and hearing those famous words: “Shark! Shark!”

Massive Steel Frame Rises for Monsters, Inc. Roller Coaster at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

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Chris B

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May 31, 2026

Massive Steel Frame Rises for Monsters Inc Roller Coaster at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Monsters, Inc. Roller Coaster Construction Reaches New Heights at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

The scream-powered future of Disney’s Hollywood Studios is rising fast. New aerial photos from bioreconstruct reveal major progress on the upcoming Monsters, Inc. roller coaster as massive steel structures continue to transform the future Monstropolis expansion.

What was recently a site filled mostly with foundations and support columns is now beginning to resemble a full attraction building. Rows of towering steel beams, cross supports, and upper-level framing have been installed, creating a massive structure that now dominates the construction zone behind the former Muppets Courtyard area.

The newest photos show crews hard at work across the site using cranes, boom lifts, and elevated work platforms as they continue assembling the attraction’s show building. Portions of metal decking have also been added, allowing workers to move throughout the growing framework as vertical construction continues.

One particularly intriguing detail comes from bioreconstruct’s aerial observations, which suggest portions of the interior steel structure may be related to the attraction’s highly anticipated door vault scene. While Disney has not released additional details, the visible framework hints at the massive scale needed to bring Monstropolis and its famous door-filled transportation system to life.

The future Monstropolis land is being built on land previously used for Cast Member parking adjacent to the former Muppets Courtyard area. While Disney has yet to announce an opening date, the rapid pace of construction is making the project impossible to miss from above.

For fans eager to race through the world of Mike and Sulley, these latest construction updates offer the clearest sign yet that Monstropolis is no longer just concept art. The city of screams is officially rising.

Mayan Temple for Future Indiana Jones Ride Begins to Take Shape at Tropical Americas in Disney’s Animal Kingdom

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Chris B

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May 31, 2026

Mayan Temple for Future Indiana Jones Ride Begins to Take Shape at Tropical Americas in Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Indiana Jones Temple Begins Rising at Disney’s Animal Kingdom as Tropical Americas Takes Shape

The future home of Indiana Jones at Disney’s Animal Kingdom is finally starting to look like an adventure worthy of the legendary archaeologist. New aerial photos from bioreconstruct reveal major progress on Tropical Americas, including the steel framework that will become the towering Mayan temple façade for the park’s upcoming Indiana Jones attraction.

The most dramatic change can be seen at the former DINOSAUR attraction, which is being transformed into an Indiana Jones adventure set within the fictional village of Pueblo Esperanza. Fresh steel supports now rise several stories above the construction site, giving fans their clearest look yet at the future temple entrance. While it’s still in its skeletal stage, the structure is already beginning to resemble the massive pyramid-inspired design showcased in Disney’s concept art.

Beyond Indiana Jones, construction activity can be seen throughout the former DinoLand U.S.A. footprint. Crews continue work on the future Encanto attraction, where the ride building exterior is largely enclosed while foundation and structural work continues around what will eventually become the Madrigal family’s magical Casita.

WDW Tropical Americas Indiana Jones Attraction Exterior scaled

Elsewhere in the land, a circular concrete foundation appears to mark the future carousel location, while construction continues around existing structures including Restaurantosaurus and Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures. Multiple work zones filled with cranes, steel, concrete, and heavy equipment highlight just how massive this transformation will be.

When Tropical Americas opens in 2027, guests will explore Pueblo Esperanza, a lush village inspired by the cultures of Mexico, Central America, and South America. The new land will feature the Indiana Jones attraction, an Encanto-themed ride, a carousel, a playground, new dining experiences, and plenty of immersive storytelling throughout.

Disney Confirms the Classic Possums are Returning to Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

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Chris B

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May 31, 2026

Disney Confirms the Classic Possums are Returning to Big Thunder Mountain Railroad — All aboard Big Thunder Mountain Railroad! The wildest ride in the wilderness reopens May 3 at Magic Kingdom Park in Walt Disney World with new magic following a mountain-top to cavern-deep refurbishment, ensuring the classic fan favorite attraction will delight guests for years to come. Amy Smith, Photographer.

Hang Tight! Disney Says Big Thunder Mountain’s Missing Possums Are Coming Back

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad may be back in action at Magic Kingdom, but eagle-eyed fans quickly noticed a few familiar residents were missing from the ride. The good news? Disney has confirmed that the beloved possums will be returning to the Wildest Ride in the Wilderness.

For years, the animatronic possums could be spotted dangling by their tails from a tree midway through the attraction. However, when Big Thunder Mountain reopened following its extensive refurbishment, the critters were nowhere to be found.

According to Disney, the removal wasn’t intentional. During testing, the possums were found to interfere with the ride’s safety clearance requirements. The attraction’s ride envelope, which accounts for the maximum reach of riders and ensures guests cannot come into contact with scenery or ride components, revealed the possums were a little too close for comfort.

Because there wasn’t enough time to address the issue before reopening, Disney temporarily removed the animals while a solution is developed. The company says the possums are expected to return in the near future.

The Artist’s Palette Debuts a Massive New Menu at Walt Disney World Resort

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Chris B

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May 31, 2026

The Artist’s Palette Debuts a Massive New Menu at Walt Disney World Resort

Major Menu Shake-Up Brings New Entrees, Desserts, and Allergy-Friendly Options to Saratoga Springs Resort

Guests staying at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa may want to take another look at the menu at The Artist’s Palette. The popular quick-service location has quietly rolled out one of its biggest menu updates in recent memory, adding dozens of new items while retiring several longtime offerings.

Among the most notable additions are new dinner entrees including Herb-Roasted Salmon with Garlic Gremolata, BBQ Pork Macaroni & Cheese, Chicken-Bacon Alfredo Pasta, and a Brisket Sandwich. Plant-based diners also have a new option with a Barbecue Jackfruit Sandwich replacing the previous plant-based gyro.

The dessert case received a major refresh as well. New sweet treats include a Cannoli Cupcake, Pistachio-Chocolate Cream Puff, Cookies and Cream Cheesecake, Pineapple-Coconut Cheesecake, Toasted Marshmallow Brownie, and Lemon-Poppy Seed Breakfast Bread. Guests looking for a lighter grab-and-go option can also pick up a new Protein Pack.

One of the most guest-friendly aspects of the overhaul is the large expansion of allergy-friendly menu choices. Several of the new entrees are now available with accommodations for common allergens including fish, shellfish, peanuts, tree nuts, sesame, soy, milk, and eggs, making it easier for more guests to find something that fits their dietary needs.

While fan favorites like the Mojo Pork, Baked Ziti, and Plant-Based Gyro have disappeared from the menu, the sheer number of new offerings makes this one of the most significant dining updates we’ve seen recently at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel.

CrazyShake by Black Tap Pop-Up Closes at Disney Springs

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Chris B

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May 31, 2026

CrazyShake by Black Tap Pop Up Closes at Disney Springs

CrazyShake Pop-Up Has Officially Closed at Disney Springs

The sugar rush has come to an end at Disney Springs. The limited-time CrazyShake by Black Tap pop-up has officially closed its doors after a short run at the former Sprinkles location on the West Side.

The pop-up first opened in March and quickly became known for its over-the-top milkshakes that were practically designed for social media. Among the most popular offerings was the Special Edition Mickey Mouse Shake, featuring a frosting-covered rim, Mickey sprinkles, a Mickey-shaped crispy treat, rock candy, whipped cream, and a cherry piled high on top.

Guests visiting Disney Springs will now find the location completely cleared out. Signage has been removed from the building, the interior lights are off, and there are no indications yet of what may replace the space in the future.

While the Disney Springs pop-up has closed, fans of Black Tap can still find the restaurant’s signature burgers and CrazyShake creations at other locations, including Downtown Disney in Disneyland Resort. For now, though, Disney Springs visitors will have to look elsewhere to satisfy those towering milkshake cravings.

With another Disney Springs dining location now vacant, attention turns to what could be next for the former Sprinkles storefront. Disney has not announced any future plans for the space.

Victoria & Albert’s Retains Status as Only Theme Park Owned Restaurant With a MICHELIN Star

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Chris B

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May 31, 2026

Victoria and Albert’s Retains Status as Only Theme Park Owned Restaurant With a MICHELIN Star

Victoria & Albert’s Retains Prestigious MICHELIN Star for Third Consecutive Year

Walt Disney World’s most celebrated dining experience continues to shine among the nation’s culinary elite. Victoria & Albert’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa has once again retained its coveted MICHELIN Star status, marking the third consecutive year the restaurant has earned the prestigious distinction.

The award is particularly notable because Victoria & Albert’s remains the first and only restaurant owned and operated by a U.S. theme park to hold a MICHELIN Star. After first earning the honor in 2024, the signature dining location successfully retained the star in both 2025 and now 2026.

Since opening in 1988, Victoria & Albert’s has built a reputation for exceptional service, elegant surroundings, and world-class cuisine. The restaurant offers guests curated tasting menus featuring seasonal ingredients sourced from around the world, with dishes inspired by the culinary team’s travels, personal experiences, and diverse cultural backgrounds.

One of the hallmarks of the Victoria & Albert’s experience is its constantly evolving menu. Because offerings change seasonally, returning guests can enjoy a completely new culinary journey with each visit, helping keep the restaurant at the forefront of fine dining in Central Florida.

For Disney foodies and fine dining enthusiasts alike, the continued recognition from MICHELIN reinforces what many guests already know: Victoria & Albert’s remains one of the most extraordinary dining experiences anywhere at Walt Disney World.

New Main Street USA Popcorn Mix Now Available at the Magic Kingdom

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Chris B

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May 31, 2026

Main Street Confectionery Debuts Patriotic Popcorn and Red White and Blue Summer Treats

Red, White & Blue Popcorn Mix Debuts at Magic Kingdom for Summer

If you’re looking for a snack that’s as colorful as a Fourth of July fireworks display, Magic Kingdom has just the thing. Main Street Confectionery is now serving up a festive new Main Street, U.S.A. Popcorn Mix that brings plenty of patriotic flair to snack time.

New Main Street USA Popcorn Mix Now Available at the Magic Kingdom

The limited-time treat features blue raspberry-flavored candy popcorn mixed with M&M’S Milk Chocolate Candies, mini marshmallows, patriotic sprinkles, and a drizzle of white chocolate. The result is a sweet-and-salty snack packed with red, white, and blue colors that practically screams summer on Main Street, U.S.A.

Priced at $17.99, the shareable popcorn mix is one of several patriotic offerings currently available at Main Street Confectionery, but it’s easily the most eye-catching of the bunch. Between the bright blue popcorn and the colorful toppings, it’s also likely to become a favorite for Disney snack photos.

Whether you’re celebrating Memorial Day, Independence Day, or simply spending a summer day at Magic Kingdom, this star-spangled popcorn mix is ready to add a little extra crunch to your visit. Just don’t wait too long to grab a tub, because seasonal snacks have a way of disappearing faster than a firework burst over Cinderella Castle.

Bluey’s Wild World at Conservation Station Eliminating Virtual Queue at Animal Kingdom

By

Chris B

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May 31, 2026

Bluey’s Wild World at Conservation Station Eliminating Virtual Queue at Animal Kingdom

Bluey’s Wild World Dropping Virtual Queue at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Bluey fans, get ready to do the happy dance! Bluey’s Wild World at Conservation Station in Disney’s Animal Kingdom is already making a queue change just days after opening. The new experience debuted on May 26 with a virtual queue system, but beginning June 2, guests will be able to join a regular standby line instead.

The virtual queue filled quickly during the first few drops, especially when spots opened at 7 AM and 10 AM. But by the second day, the demand appeared to settle down a bit, with availability lasting longer than expected during the later drop. That means Disney is switching gears faster than a game of Keepy Uppy.

Bluey’s Wild World brings guests into an Australia-inspired area at Conservation Station, giving families a chance to enjoy some extra Bluey fun while visiting Rafiki’s Planet Watch. For anyone who missed out on the virtual queue during opening week, this change should make it much easier to stop by and see what Bluey and Bingo have brought to Animal Kingdom.

See Jessie, Woody, and Buzz On Stage at The El Capitan Theatre for “Toy Story 5”

By

Sara

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May 31, 2026

See Woody, Buzz, and Jessie Live at the El Capitan Theatre for Toy Story 5

The toys are officially back in town! Tickets are officially on sale now for Disney and Pixar’s highly anticipated newest animated feature, “Toy Story 5,” at the historic El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood.

If you want to experience the next chapter of Buzz and Woody’s adventures in style, the El Capitan is pulling out all the stops. Guests attending these special screenings will get to see Jessie, Woody, and Buzz live on stage before the movie starts, plus pose for the ultimate family photo at an exclusive Toy Story 5 themed photo op!

For the fans who just can’t wait, the El Capitan is hosting two Early Access Screenings on Thursday, June 18 at 4:00 PM and 9:55 PM.

If you want the full opening night experience, the official Opening Night Screening kicks off at 7:00 PM on Thursday, June 18 with two premium ticket packages:

Trailblazer Pack ($60): Includes a Reserved Ticket, Priority Entry, an exclusive Toy Story 5 Hat, a massive 130 oz. Collectible Tin filled with popcorn, a 24 oz. Fountain Drink, and a commemorative Event Credential.
General Ticket ($35): Includes a Reserved Ticket, a 64 oz. Popcorn, a 24 oz. Fountain Drink, and an Event Credential.

The party keeps rolling into the weekend! On Friday, June 19 at 7:00 PM, the theatre will host a special Fan Event Screening featuring an incredibly cool souvenir package:

Rootin’ Tootin’ Pack ($75): Includes a Reserved Ticket, Priority Entry, a randomly selected Toy Story 5 Funko POP!, a 130 oz. Collectible Tin with popcorn, a 24 oz. Fountain Drink, and an Event Credential.
General Ticket ($35): Includes a Reserved Ticket, a 64 oz. Popcorn, a 24 oz. Fountain Drink, and an Event Credential.

Bonus for Foodies: Specialty themed concession items will also be available for purchase for all ticketed guests throughout the run, while supplies last!

Can’t make it to opening weekend? Regular daily showtimes run from June 19 through July 5 at 10:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 4:00 PM, 7:00 PM, and 9:55 PM.

Standard ticket pricing is $25 for adults and $22 for children and seniors. However, the El Capitan is offering some great ways to bundle and save:

Best in the West 4-Pack ($75): Perfect for families! Get four reserved tickets grouped together at a major discount.
Pin Trader Pack ($60): Includes one Reserved Ticket, one highly collectible Limited Edition 400 “Cosmic Cowboy” pin, a 64 oz. popcorn, and a 24 oz. fountain drink.

Disney is also ensuring every fan can enjoy the magic with several specialty screenings:

Open Caption Screening: Sunday, June 28 at 1:00 PM
Sensory Inclusive Screening: Tuesday, June 30 at 7:00 PM
Spanish Dubbed Screening: Wednesday, July 1 at 7:00 PM

Because all seats at the El Capitan Theatre are reserved, these fan-favorite packages are expected to sell out fast. You can secure your seats right now online at www.elcapitantheatre.com or via Fandango.

Are you planning to see Buzz and Woody back on the big screen?

Disney Adventure Set to Become First Disney Cruise Line Ship With Room Service Fees

By

Sara

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May 31, 2026

Disney Adventure Set to Become First Disney Cruise Line Ship With Room Service Fees

Disney Adventure Breaks Fleet Tradition with New Room Service Fee

For decades, complimentary 24-hour room service has been one of the most beloved staples of the Disney Cruise Line experience. However, that iconic luxury is officially coming to an end for guests sailing on the fleet’s newest mega-ship, the Disney Adventure.

Under the new policy rolling out next week, standard room service deliveries onboard the Disney Adventure will incur a $5 service charge, plus an automatic 18% gratuity. However, a few exceptions apply: morning breakfast orders placed via traditional door hangers and deliveries for concierge-level guests will remain exempt from the new fees.

This marks the first time any Disney Cruise Line ship has attached a delivery fee to stateroom dining. Historically, all-inclusive 24-hour room service has been a signature perk that set the brand apart from its competitors. Tellingly, the Disney Adventure is currently the only vessel missing from the official Disney Cruise Line Room Service webpage. Because the massive ship is still finding its footing, insiders suggest the fee is an attempt to curb overwhelming demand, as the crew has reportedly struggled with wait times exceeding an hour for simple deliveries.

Do you order room service when you sail with Disney Cruise Line?

Disney Installs New Gates to Limit Access to Contemporary Resort Fireworks Viewing Area

By

Sara

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May 31, 2026

Disney Installs New Gates to Limit Access to Contemporary Resort Fireworks Viewing Area

Disney Installs Gates at Contemporary Resort’s Fireworks Viewing Area

Disney’s Contemporary Resort is locking down some of its upper-level views. Multiple gates have been installed on the resort’s popular fourth-floor observation deck to block guests from accessing higher stairwell landings—spots that many had been using as makeshift fireworks viewing areas, likely prompting this new safety measure.

The fourth-floor observation deck has long been a “not-so-hidden gem” for watching the Magic Kingdom fireworks outside the park. For years, savvy guests have used these outer stairwells to climb to higher landings for an even better vantage point—similar to the exclusive rooftop views found just upstairs at California Grill.

However, the addition of these new gates indicates that Disney is actively clamping down on the practice. Contemporary Resort Cast Members confirmed that these stairwells are required to remain completely clear for emergency evacuations. The gates serve as a direct deterrent, preventing guests from crowding the upper landings and blocking unauthorized access to the exclusive California Grill rooftop deck.

Two separate gates have been installed—one on each stairwell leading up from the observation deck.

What do you think about this change? Should Disney keep these upper landings completely off-limits to regular guests?