Universal Orlando Resort continues to develop new properties, resorts, and attractions. They’re growing faster than any other theme park in town. Skull Island: Reign of Kong, the Hulk coaster refurbishment, the Fast and Furious ride, Jimmy Fallon ride, Volcano Bay, Loews Sapphire Falls are just a few of the enhancements and projects that Universal Orlando Resort is working on.
We made a quick trip to the parks, last week and have some updates from the Resort, including Hulk, Kong, Toothsome Chocolate Factory, and Sapphire Falls.
Incredible Hulk Roller Coaster
The Incredible Hulk roller coaster installed their final piece of track, just this week! They’re moving right along with the update of this project, including some amazing changes (we’re told) to the queue building. Universal has not given an idea of when the Hulk coaster will open, again, so we’ll all just have to wait anxiously for the angry green man to return! Until then, check out the video of the final track being installed.
Toothsome Chocolate Factory
The Toothsome Chocolate Factory will transport you into a 19th century-inspired Steampunk chocolate factory. You’ll indulge your appetite amidst towering smoke stacks, funky gadgetry, and staff wearing unique Steampunk fashion.
The Chocolate Factory occupies the same building that used to house the NBA Restaurant.
The food will take your imagination to new heights with a menu that features unique twists on classic steak, seafood and pasta entrees, gourmet burgers, sandwiches, incredible salads, all-day brunch and so much more. And the desserts will be simply…stunning.
The construction/remodeling seems to be progressing well. We’re not sure when this restaurant will open, but we’re ready for it!
Loews Sapphire Falls
Sapphire Falls is set to open, this summer and rooms are already being booked. The construction is progressing well and should be ready for the July opening date.
The Caribbean-inspired Loews Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando® Resort transports guests to paradise where blue waterfalls cascade across lush grounds, and the invitation to cool relaxation is everywhere.
Reminiscent of a leisurely estate in the heart of the tropics, every comfort has been built into this brand new jewel. With a luxuriously landscaped 16,000 square foot, resort-style pool surrounded by cascading waterfalls as its centerpiece, Loews Sapphire Falls Resort captivates at every turn. From the ruins of the stone turret in the lobby to the inviting island charm of the 1,000 guest rooms and suites, guests will be surrounded by a vivid and textured haven that is old-world and chic while still modern and timeless. Loews Sapphire Falls Resort offers an island escape in the heart of an unforgettable adventure.
Skull Island: Reign of Kong
Reign of Kong also has a “summer 2016” open date, although some are predicting an early or soft opening in late April or early May. As we went by Kong, the fire effects were being tested. Ride vehicle testing has been on-going for about the last month and a lot of theming has been completed since our last visit.
Check out our video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Og7pGPrrpoo) to see the fire effects and new theming:
Jimmy Fallon
There’s not a lot to see at Jimmy Fallon, just yet. Lots of steel structures continue to go up on the outside of the old Twister building, eventually creating the facade of 30 Rockefeller Center (we think).
Here’s a video from Jimmy Fallon talking about his ride at Universal Orlando Resort.
Fast and Furious
Similar to the Jimmy Fallon project, the new Fast and Furious ride in the old Disaster location does not have a whole lot of visible progress. A themed construction wall has gone up and lots of buildings have been destroyed. Beyond that, guests do not get to see much progress.
To see video of the current progress on Jimmy Fallon and Fast and Furious, check out this video from our friends, The Tim Tracker.
Speaking of Volcano Bay, construction cranes continue to dot the sky near Volcano Bay; Universal’s new water park. Not much progress to report, other than construction continues!
We hope you enjoyed these project updates from Universal Orlando Resort! Leave us a comment and let us know if there’s something specific you’d like to see an update on from Universal!