UUOP #701 - Universal Orlando 2026 & Beyond with Seth Kubersky

·56 min·5 clips

Seth Kubersky warned Lee and Tracy about the Terrifier line at Horror Nights, and they nearly passed out waiting.

The episode begins with hosts Lee, Tracy, Chris, and Michelle welcoming Seth Kubersky, co-author of The Unofficial Guide. They open with a personal anecdote about nearly passing out in line for Terrifier at Halloween Horror Nights 2025. Seth then recaps 2025 as a historic year for Universal Orlando, overshadowing 2026 expectations. The discussion moves to the Jurassic Park River Adventure's year-long refurbishment, debating whether it will be re-themed to Jurassic World or remain Jurassic Park with upgraded animatronics. Next, they address Finnegan's Bar closing for renovations, possibly due to mold and kitchen upgrades, and its impact on park dining during events. The hosts explore the disparity between Epic Universe's modern attractions and the older legacy parks, emphasizing the need for updates. Seth reveals Epic Universe is currently capped at 22,000 daily visitors due to ride reliability issues, particularly with Ministry of Magic. They speculate on the Wizarding World expansion, likely an indoor broomstick coaster, to address capacity needs. The conversation shifts to Lost Continent, with Seth indicating Pokemon is more likely than Zelda for a future retheme, referencing Japan's upcoming Pokemon attraction. They briefly touch on the Universal Kids Resort opening in Texas and its target market. The episode concludes with speculation on Halloween Horror Nights' 35th anniversary, including potential houses like Hellraiser or Stranger Things, and a mention of Volcano Bay's temporary closure for expansion.

As heard by us

Practical Universal chatter, strongest on Horror Nights, Epic Universe, and what still feels unfinished.

On the whole, this Universal Orlando conversation is strongest when it gets concrete. The hosts dig into Horror Nights line strategy, the Epic Universe fountain show, a possible fireworks spot, and the feeling that a few restaurant plans still have not moved very far.

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Why you'd press play

You want episode 701 of the unofficial Universal Orlando podcast, with Seth Kaberski in the room, for a candid look at what is still coming to the parks.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

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