Universal Destinations and Experiences has announced that the Jurassic Park River Adventure attraction at the Universal’s Islands of Adventure park in Orlando, FL will be closed for an extended period for refurbishment.
The news officially broke on Tuesday September 16th, when the Universal Orlando website updated their list of upcoming closures to include River Adventure.
The Universal Orlando Resort website lists River Adventure to be closed from January 5, 2026 to November 19, 2026 –a total of ten months and twelve days. That’s ultimately just a few days longer than the transformation from Jurassic Park The Ride to Jurassic World The Ride between 2018 and 2019 at Universal Studios Hollywood, and several months shorter than the refurbishment that just happened at for Jurassic Park The Ride at Universal Studios Japan.
There has been no word from Universal on what the Orlando park has planned for the attraction during this extended refurbishment, or what changes we may expect to see once it reopens, but we can assume that the lengthy downtime means that the attraction will be receiving some much-needed love and attention after it’s (by then) twenty-eight years of operation. In recent years there has been multiple missing dinosaurs for periods of time, dinosaurs with odd breaks and bends, and inconsistent effects and sound system. Hopefully, after the ten months, fans will be welcome back to Jurassic Park in all its roaring glory!
10 years ago, ‘Jurassic World’ brought the ‘Jurassic Park’ franchise back from extinction. Since then, two sequels have come out, with more underway. But for many, the first ‘Jurassic World’ holds a special time and place, bringing to life the excitement of what a functioning dinosaur park could have been like.
In 2013, it was finally announced that the fourth film was on the horizon. Rumors that it would feature a fully realized theme park on Isla Nublar, known as Jurassic World, led to many questions running in everyone’s minds. It was quite a surprising direction for the story that most people didn’t see coming. When filming began in 2014, many fans flocked for the chance to personally take part in the experience. Cameras rolled in Hawaii first, but soon after that their lenses focused on several massive sets in New Orleans.
During 2023, Derrick Davis of Jurassic Time conversed with three fans who were lucky enough to have been extras (background cast members) at New Orleans: Anthony Feliciano, Bo Monarch, and Brent Kappel. Their discussions were edited into a 4-part video series that dove into the memories of their incredible experiences on the impressive sets of ‘Jurassic World.’ We got to hear their fun stories, along with a plethora of rare behind the scenes photos, video footage, and other unique imagery.
Anthony and Bo first describe what it was like filming the famous Mosasaur Stadium sequence. We learn how little of the set there actually was, and the simple methods used to create a much larger effect on screen. They also catch a glimpse of the original ‘Jurassic Park’ Visitor Center’s eerie ruins. Despite seeing the set from afar, it was enough to give them immense excitement.
In the second segment, Anthony and Bo look back at their experiences inside the highly-detailed Hammond Creation Lab and Samsung Innovation Center sets. We get a fun recollection of what they thought their scenes were about while being filmed, as well as some props, like a map, that they were able to take home with them.
For the third segment, Brent details the stunning Main Street set that was built next to an abandoned Six Flags amusement park. He gives us detailed descriptions of many Main Street locations, including the mostly-unseen Jurassic Traders Gift Shop, and the shock of Katie McGrath (who played Zara) performing some of her insane stunts on set.
The fourth segment of this series features Brent describing what it was like portraying a scientist in the Hammond Creation Lab, then reveals several props that mysteriously left with him. He tells a funny story involving Chris Pratt, and one of the props he shows us features a dinosaur dietary chart.
Now, for the 10th anniversary of ‘Jurassic World’ in 2025, Derrick engaged in conversations with a new group of extras from New Orleans and Hawaii. Through these discussions, a wealth of new stories emerged, accompanied by a vast array of images and footage. This special retrospective on the ‘Jurassic World’ extras experience was compiled into another 4-part video series to celebrate the occasion.
In the first segment, New Orleans extras Mariah Lambes, Chris Topher, Rob Miranda, and Brent Kappel discuss the Mosasaur Stadium, Samsung Innovation Center, and Main Street sets. For the first time, we learn about the hangar set, which is seen at the end of the film, where the survivors of Jurassic World gather after their terrible ordeals. An extraordinary act of kindness by the film’s director, Colin Trevorrow, is also revealed.
For the second segment, Mariah, Chris, Rob, and Brent describe more about the Main Street set in New Orleans, including a minor injury that occurred and the full version of Jimmy Buffett’s cameo. Attractions inspired by the film at Universal Studios theme parks, the use of digital doubles, and other surprising stories are also revealed.
The third segment takes us to Hawaii, where a whole new group of extras tell their stories about this location’s incredible sets. We begin with Audrey Chang, who describes the process of being an extra in Hawaii, what it was like being on the ferry that took visitors to Jurassic World, and arriving at the dock set. Cody Easterbrook continues the conversation as he describes the Indominus Rex paddock set, the original name of the hybrid dinosaur, his role in the film, and much more.
In the final fourth segment, Hawaii extra Ryota Takuma recounts stories about the Gyrosphere Loading Station set at Kualoa Ranch and the Hilton Isla Nublar Hotel set at the Hawaii Convention Center. Ryota also describes being part of a deleted scene, with some rare images and footage to help illustrate it. The concluding conversation features film enthusiast and photographer Charlie Chai, who reveals one-of-a-kind images and footage that he captured from several of Hawaii’s sets. We even get an incredibly rare look at the ‘Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom’ version of Main Street in ruins.
All the extras Derrick spoke with, and surely many others, finally got to see their work in June 2015 when the film premiered around the world. No matter what they thought of the final product, seeing themselves on the big screen was a huge thrill. While the rest of us may be envious of their experiences, it is wonderful to have their recollections joined with all the imagery to finally get a real sense of what these sets were truly like. And, if only for a short time, we can also imagine we visited ‘Jurassic World’ just as they had.
One can’t deny that Jurassic World brought a franchise back from extinction. After a decade, hearing memories from the film’s extras made me recall the excitement and fun that Jurassic World brought to my life. Learning more about the incredible sets with detailed images and footage made me appreciate the artistry even more. It truly feels like a real place, and for Jurassic World’s extras, it was. For the rest of us, every fan has their own special stories of what the entire Jurassic Park series means to them, and it’s in these stories that life has truly found a way to bring us all together.
Which set from ‘Jurassic World’ do you wish you could have visited the most? Were you also an extra in the film, and if so, what scenes were you in? Share your comments below, and as always, stay tuned to Jurassic Outpost for the latest!
Interviews conducted & videos created by Derrick Davis. Article written by Derrick Davis, duplicated at Jurassic Time & Derrick Davis Media.
‘Jurassic World Rebirth’ is nearly upon us, and I think all ‘Jurassic’ fans are ready to celebrate! While ticket sales are not currently active, many are likely already planning fun activities to go along with the release of the latest film. One thing people have been clamoring for is a grand event akin to the one at Universal Studios Hollywood for Jurassic Park’s 25th Anniversary. I attended the 3-day event, a weekend getaway with hundreds of ‘Jurassic’ fans. It’s an experience I will always cherish. However, some would even be fine with something smaller, like the one-day Generation Jurassic event.
Well, it looks like we will have an event (sort of) just in time for the release of ‘Jurassic World Rebirth’ at Universal Studios Hollywood withUniversal Mega Movie Summer!
Soak up the fun at the all-new Universal Mega Movie Summer with splash-filled attractions like Jurassic World – The Ride, now featuring the brand-new Mosasaurus Splash! Meet your favorite characters and snap photos at new photo ops, celebrate iconic anniversaries like 50 years of Jaws and 40 years of Back to the Future, and indulge in movie-inspired eats and treats (available for in-park purchase). It’s a summer celebration like no other!
Celebrate Jurassic World Rebirth at Universal Mega Movie Summer with all-new character meet and greets, a dinosaur scavenger hunt, and an enhanced Mosasaurus splash encounter on Jurassic World – The Ride.
Jurassic World—The Ride Featuring Mosasaurus Splash, inspired by the highly anticipated movie Jurassic World: Rebirth, opening in theaters on July 2, the theme park’s popular thrill ride will see the iconic 84-foot water drop at the ride’s finale “reverberate” with the menacing roar of a Mosasaurus. Four new Spitter dinosaurs will join the melee, and water geysers will erupt to shower guests.
It’ll be curious to see how this enhanced version of the ride plays out, especially with the extra Spitter animatronics and somehow adding a “reverb” from the Mosasaurus at the end. Especially since the mosasaur does not currently appear at the end of the ride, as this detail is insinuating. Otherwise, it sounds like they are amping up the wet factor, too. This reminds me of the ‘Jurassic Park 3 Summer Splash’ event the park had when ‘Jurassic Park 3’ came out that summer, where they simply amped up the water levels to the extreme.
An all-new “adorable dinosaur” from Jurassic World Rebirth will join Blue the Velociraptor, Juliet the Triceratops, and Baby Tango. The dinosaurs will engage with guests alongside the debut of an all-new adventure character inspired by Jurassic World Rebirth.
This “adorable dinosaur” is likely the Aquilops, “Delores,” from ‘Rebirth,’ but it remains to be seen!
A Spinosaurus dinosaur photo op will welcome guests to step into a thrilling scene from the film for a memorable photo, and a new scavenger hunt game featuring Compy will entertain and engage guests.
While ‘Rebirth’ has new designs for the Spinosaurus, I can only imagine they are simply bringing back the lifesize Spinosaurus bust modeled after ‘Jurassic Park 3’ that used to be alongside ‘Jurassic Park: The Ride’ until it was transformed into ‘Jurassic World: The Ride.” Ever since, the Spinosaurus has been part of the Studio Tour. The “dinosaur scavenger hunt” is curious, but perhaps for the kids: maybe something for the “Dino Play” area? We’ll have to wait until more details emerge.
Jurassic Cafe will serve new dishes, and Isla Nubar will feature new cocktails, such as The Jurassic Water Rebirth and Spicy Jurassic Paradise.
Although it isn’t mentioned, new merchandise will also be available. These new pictures below were just unveiled that show several new designs with ‘Rebirth’ themes, from sweaters to coffee mugs.
It should also be noted that Universal Studios Orlando is already carrying some of the ‘Rebirth’ toys, and it’s likely the Hollywood park also will by the time this event is underway. (Picture credit to J. Malone.)
While it’s great that Universal Studios Hollywood is at least doing something to celebrate ‘Jurassic World Rebirth,’ it is less of a dedicated event specifically for the franchise and merely plopped amongst other stuff that will be accessible to all parkgoers. I was truly expecting something on the level of the amazing Back To The Future event that they’ve had, and it is surprising that an older (and still amazing) film got that kind of love over a much bigger franchise that is getting a new film this year. Alas, it was not meant to be (unless Universal Studios Orlando/Islands Of Adventure have something planned).
‘Jurassic’ fans have a big summer ahead of them nonetheless, and it would definitely be worth it to make a trip to Universal Studios Hollywood and organize get-togethers alongside this special experience. The park also has a Citywalk with its own AMC theater, making a viewing party with a theme park experience something few of us would want to pass up.
Will you be going to the Universal Mega Movie Summer event to celebrate ‘Jurassic World Rebirth’ at Universal Studios Hollywood? Or are you waiting for an event closer to home? Is it disappointing something bigger and more catered to the fans wasn’t planned instead? Share your thoughts below and stay tuned to Jurassic Outpost for the latest!
Universal released more details on their upcoming park in Texas, now set to officially open in 2026!
Initially announced just over a year ago, the Texas park will be Universal’s first ever entirely children and family centered theme park. The other Universal destinations around the globe feature a mixture of attractions, shows, and events for all ages, but the all new Universal Kids Resort will have offerings specifically geared towards a younger audience.
VP and executive producer of Universal Creative Sarah Gibbon stated “At each point, we considered how we could design a place especially for kids where they could explore, imagine and adventure with their families and friends They’ll be able to do all this while being fully immersed in some of their favorite stories – ones full of curiosity, laughter and joy.”
With that in mind, many have wondered what types of attractions, and IP properties we would see In 2024 Universal released two official pieces of conceptual art of an ariel views of all the lands that would make up UKR, and both included portions that appeared to be hinting at potential Jurassic themed sections.
Well, with the announcement of UKR opening in 2026, Universal also released what lands and characters we can expect to see- with Jurassic World being among them!
‘[At Jurassic World] Discoveries abound as kids learn about and come face to face with beloved dinosaurs of Jurassic World in uniquely exciting and interactive ways. The new adventure exclusively created for young explorers will be both exhilarating and awe-inspiring.’
Along with the land synopsis is a picture of everyone’s favorite juvenile ankylosaur Bumpy, from Jurassic World: Camp Cretaceous.
Along with Bumpy (and whatever other dinosaurs and characters from Jurassic World we may encounter,) guests can experience many other iconic lands and characters in this 97-acre theme park including Shrek, Puss in Boots, Trolls, SpongeBob SquarePants, Minions, and Gabby’s Dollhouse .
While there are no official details on what guests can specifically expect as far as rides and shows go for UKR, many fans will no doubt be scouring the previously released concept art for clues. And people can also sign up for news and updates on the official UKR site as well!
Tell us what you think. Are you excited for the all-new Universal Kids Resort? Will you be visiting? What kind of rides and experiences do you hope to see? Let us know in the comments!
From traveling museum exhibitions, to multiple educational books written by some of world’s leading scientists, and even donating nearly a million dollars of paleontological research through The Jurassic Foundation, Universal Pictures and Amblin have found many unique and inventive ways to utilize the Jurassic franchise to promote education through STEAM (an acronym for science, technology, engineering, art, and math.) Universal Destinations and Experiences now continues this trend with their latest student programing at Universal Orlando!
Jurassic World VelociCoaster: Breaking Down the DNA is an all new educational youth program that allows student attendees to discover the the collaborative and innovative world of ride design! Developed in partnership with Universal Pictures, students will explore how a diverse Universal team with varied backgrounds and skills aligned to collectively transform an idea into a multi-award winning ride. They’ll discover how ride design is a complex collaborative process the combines creativity and problem-solving to create an innovative, story-driven attraction.
Program Objectives include:
Exploring academic and professional interests connected to themed entertainment.
Examining how diverse perspectives drive innovative thinking.
Identifying how teamwork is fundamental in achieving a common goal.
How to describe storytelling elements and how they drive immersive experiences.
Explaining the importance of how research influences decision making.
The program is the latest in a series of STEAM centered events hosted at the parks that seek to engage students into exploring engineering, creativity, science, and teamwork. It’s also the latest way Universal has used the Jurassic franchise to promote education. Previously, in 2023, Universal Orlando hosted a STEAM Symposium themed around Jurassic Park’s 30th Anniversary, and Universal Orlando also offers a “Jurassic Paleobotany” program associated with their STEAM App Series, where students work together to describe the importance of understanding plants and environments of the past and present to create authentic, immersive, and themed environments.
Programs at Universal are intended for groups of twenty or more students, and reservations must be made ahead of time. Tours will be scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis. Programs are subject to availability. More details and resources for educators interested can be found on Universal Orlando’s Youth Programing website.
Coming off reopening Jurassic Park The Ride after an extended refurbishment, Universal Studios Japan has announced that they will be hosting a six-month long Jurassic interactive event!
From March 14, 2025, through August 31, 2025 (*dates subject to change) Universal Studios Japan will be hosting Jurassic World Journey, a special limited time event during daytime park hours with unique show offerings, special food, interactive missions, and more!
Take your family on a thrilling, new adventure to experience the dinosaurs from Jurassic World like never before! See the terrifying T. rex on a boat tour through the jungle. Meet and interact with adorable baby dinosaurs! And try not to scream during a tense encounter with a Raptor! You can also go on an all-new “”Mission Walk”” where you can explore the area while solving fun and exciting new puzzles along the way!’
So, lets break down exactly what guests can expect and experience during JW Journey!
ENTERTAINMENT OFFERINGS
There will be three “new” shows offered during the Jurassic World Journey event that will bring guests closer than ever to the park’s dinosaurs! Universal Japan has proven time and again that they love experimenting with live performance to showcase dinosaurs in their Jurassic Park area. Universal Japan has been the stage for a variety of Jurassic shows through the years since the 00’s, showcasing many different dinosaurs with each iteration (one of which even had a Spinosaurus!)
In “Dino Encounter” guests will be able to see some of the park’s herbivorous dinosaurs, like Triceratops and Stegosaurus, and will also have opportunities to pet and even feed the animals!
Complimenting the experience with the herbivores will be the “Baby Dino Adventure,” guests will experience the awe and wonder of interacting with a baby dinosaur and learn some fun new facts about the incredible species from its handler! You can even take a commemorative photo to have as a keepsake of this truly unforgettable and heartwarming moment!
Be careful though, because while the island is home to many magnificent and wonderful animals, danger also lurks around every corner! In “Raptor Alert” you find out that several raptors have escaped from their enclosures and have been spotted in the area! Be sure to take caution as you move throughout the area! Get ready to experience the thrill of a lifetime as you try to avoid being trapped by the Raptor pack!
Universal is also planning the “ultimate adventure” for the whole family to enjoy with the Jurassic World “Mission Walk!” After picking up your mission booklet at Jurassic Outfitters (each guest can obtain one mission booklet per day), guests will explore the jungles of Jurassic World and complete their exciting missions throughout the Park! As you complete the various missions you’ll also encounter various dinosaurs hidden in the jungle. Every participant who completes all of the missions will receive an exclusive sticker as a gift!
The Jurassic section highlighted on the USJ map. ①Jurassic World Raptor Alert ②Jurassic World Dino Encounter ③Jurassic World Baby Dino Adventure ④Jurassic World Mission Walk
PHOTO OP
On top of the new entertainment offerings, there will also be a special photo op location where guests can get a commemorative photo with a Jurassic World gyrosphere!
FOOD OFFERINGS
The new T, Rex Burger, volcanic Strawberry and Chocolate Cupcake, and Ancient Sea drink.
Universal never misses an opportunity to come up with unique and special foods for their parks as well, and during Jurassic World Journey the park will be offering multiple new edible dishes.
There will be five new meals offered- the massive T. rex Burger Meal, the Raptor Burger Meal, the Pteranodon Burger meal (which looks to be a crispy chicken sandwich,) the Mosasaurus Burger Meal (a breaded fish sandwich,) and the bite sized Triceratops Burger Meal for kids. To pair with the meal there will also be a unique drink, a salty lemon and lychee soda mix named the Ancient Sea.
And don’t forget desert! Offerings like a pteranodon topped chocolate and strawberry cupcake (made to look like Mt. Sibo erupting,) and the Jurassic Chocolate Lemon Churritos are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Images on Universal Japan’s website suggest that there may be even more food and treat options available as well during the event, like a delectable multi-layered dessert dish of some kind and Jurassic themed macarons.
While there has been no news of new or special merchandise (other than the sticker awarded at the end of the Mission Walk,) the Blue and Gyrosphere popcorn bucket will finally be making its way to Universal Japan!
And don’t forget to ride that ever flowing river with the newly refurbished Jurassic Park The Ride, and fly alongside pterosaurs on the rollercoaster The Flying Dinosaur.
Walt Disney World News Today reported in their article reporting on the special event that Universal Japan has said that there will be “enhancements” added to the rides for the event, but we could not find any information on Universal Japan’s website (or elsewhere) corroborating this. It is not without precedent though, as other parks like Universal Hollywood and Orlando have made minor tweaks to their respective Jurassic rides in the past for special events like Halloween Horror Nights. So perhaps we will see a few added details, props, or dinosaurs in the coming months!
Universal Destinations and Resorts around the world have had many different special Jurassic offerings over the years. For instance, for Jurassic Park‘s 30th Anniversary Universal Orlando had a special tribute store, and in 2018 Universal Singapore had the short show Jurassic World ROAR! in honor of the release of Jurassic World Fallen Kingdom. While none of the other Universal’s other resorts have announced any special events or offerings accompanying the release Jurassic World Rebirth as of yet, we can hope that perhaps Universal Japan is just leading the way and maybe some of the other destinations will soon follow suit with some dino-sized surprises for guests this year!
What would you like to see come to Universal Parks around the globe? More special Jurassic events? More unique shows with dinosaurs? New rides? Let us know in the comments below.
The InGen Spinosaurs and Tyrannosaurus facing off in the Aviary showroom of the Jurassic Park Institute Tour. Image courtesy of Rick Bluhm
Since the release of Jurassic Park in 1993, there have been multiple accompanying live shows, exhibits, and experiences across the world that have helped bridge the gap between the fictitious world of the franchise, and our real one.
In the early 00’s, one such exhibit was the Jurassic Park Institute Tour, located in Japan. Designed and produced by Thinkwell Design & Production, the Thea Award Winning exhibit brought the world and science of Jurassic Park alive unlike ever before.
The nearly hour-long experience featured twelve different exhibits, all featuring interactive displays and showcasing breathtaking encounters with dinosaurs using of state of the art technology and theatrical techniques. To bring these environments and exhibits to life, the creative team employed artists who took great great care of the loaned props, and in recreating entire environments from educational museum galleries, to an InGen laboratory, and even a jaunt through the Aviary.
JPIT’s Field Art Director, Rick Bluhm, adjusting a display in the InGen lab. Image courtesy of Rick Bluhm.
To tackle such an endeavor as one of these dino-sized projects, you need a dedicated and creative team. Enter Rick Bluhm, a Field Art Director on the Jurassic Park Institute Tour project. We were lucky enough to be able to connect with Bluhm, and asked him to reflect on his career as well as on his time with the JPIT project.
JO: What got you interested in being in entertainment and ultimately a Creative Director, and how did you make the journey to now helping create some of the most immersive theatrical and ride experiences in the world?
RB: My career began with theatrical set design in the Los Angeles area at dozens of small theatres. Through contacts there I transitioned into Art Direction for television commercials, series and ultimately films. It was while I was on hiatus between those projects that I was asked to join Universal and have been in themed immersive entertainment ever since – although I just retired from my position of Senior Director, Creative, after 12 years developing attractions for the parks in Orlando and Osaka.
I was very proud to be a part of the Thinkwell team that produced Jurassic Park Institute Tour and we had quite an adventure in Tokyo that summer! Prior to [joining JPI], I was the Art Director for several show attractions that we opened in Universal Studios Japan in 2001. Needless to say, I had experience with the culture and that helped me lead the wonderful local prop and set dressing crew for JPIT.
One of the earlier exhibits in the JPIT, showcasing the latest information and research in paleontology. Image courtesy of Rick Bluhm
JO: In the early 00’s with the release of Jurassic Park 3 there was this kind of push with the Jurassic Park Institute branding to kind of be more educational focused. There were books, games, and a website. But then of course there was the inception and creation of this live experience which looks like it bridges a lot of the fantastical elements and universe of the films with science and education. Can you tell us how the tour came to be initially?
RB: Ken Nakashima was the man who brought the idea for the tour to Thinkwell. He was studying paleontology at a university in the L.A. area and was keenly interested in dinosaur DNA. His father, Sam Nakashima brought investors together to create this tour, which would package the education Ken was passionate about into a wonderfully immersive entertainment experience.
An InGen lab showroom. Image courtesy of Rick Bluhm.
RB: The details about developing the concept happened all before I was brought on to the project. Joe Cashman was the Production Designer who oversaw creative and he hired me as a Field Art Director to procure all the set dressing and props, plants etc. and stage them all when we arrived in Tokyo. Before the “Mr. DNA” film pre-show, we had a huge exhibit of dinosaur skeletons with informational graphic panels to anchor the experience with a strong scientific foundation.
The Brachiosaur canopy scene, where guests would come face to face with some of the largest animals InGen created. Image courtesy of Rick Bluhm.
JO: What was one of the hardest aspects of bringing this experience to life?
RB: The biggest challenge was the scene which featured Brachiosaurs feeding. Guests felt as if they were on a bridge, overlooking the canopy of trees through which the long necks of the dinosaurs were grazing. We had limited depth there, so I had a firm in Singapore fabricate trunks with bases and armatures so we could create huge diameters of gingko trees that sat a few feet above the floor and masked it.
This EX-STINKS. Image courtesy of Rick Bluhm.
RB: One particularly silly moment was when we received delivery of the dung pile for the Triceratops yard. It didn’t seem quite real enough, so I asked the prop team to coat it in clear gloss. It worked so well that it elicited big laughs from the crew and guests.
A section of the JPIT that showcased scenic props and models from Jurassic Park 3, including the unused infamous “RED” Velociraptor from early pre-production. Image courtesy of Rick Bluhm.
JO: Did you all have any movie props or pieces that were a part of the tour?
RB: Although we moulded a few props (eggs, for example) from originals from the films, we wanted a special way to feature actual props and wardrobe from the latest film (JP3).
Costumes used by the main cast of Jurassic Park 3 on display at the JPTI. Image courtesy of Rick Bluhm.
RB: We created a post-show before the exit which displayed incubators and other equipment from the scene where they stumble on the dilapidated Ingen lab – plus a couple of full size Raptors and wardrobe from the key characters. I also created an Art Directors’ Studio area to feature blueprints and renderings of the sets from that film.
Concept art, models, and other preproduction and production material from the first three Jurassic films on display. Image courtesy of Rick Bluhm.
RB: I took great care in the authenticity of our props – particularly the genetics lab and medical bay – researching details from the films. Also, the artificial foliage had to have proper scale and species that would be found in the regions from the films.
Rick Bluhm adjusting and adding foliage to one of the various scenes in JPTI. A small compy pops up to keep the creative company. Image courtesy of Rick Bluhm.
JO: What do you think captivates people about Jurassic or dinosaurs in general?
RB: Dinosaurs will always be a source of fascination to us humans. The strength and majesty of those exotic creatures in an ancient world, so different from what it is now. I was obsessed as a boy and have seen my nephews and others continue with that curiosity.
One of the many animal containment areas apart of JPTI, featuring Triceratops and a fully animatronic Jurassic Park 3 style Ankylosaurus. Image courtesy of Rick Bluhm.
While the Tour is no longer, an other interactive Jurassic experiences have now taken its place, you can watch a promotional reel for the Jurassic Park Institute Tour below thanks to archival efforts of The Jurassic Park Collection.
Have you ever experienced a Jurassic exhibit? If so, which one, and what kind of affect did it have on you? Would you like to see more edutainment style experiences and material from the Jurassic brand like with Jurassic Park Institute? Let us know in the comments below!
Theme Park Insider released their lists of top attractions across the world for the past year, and for the fourth consecutive year Universal’s VelociCoaster remains the apex of coasters.
Jurassic World VelociCoaster at Universal’s Islands of Adventure puts you right in the middle of a training session with Owen’s IBRIS Raptors. You’ll come face to face with Echo, Charlie, Delta, and Blue as you are launched at 50 miles per hour (80 kilometers per hour) into a paddock. After you careen around tight corners, barely missing sharp rocks and snapping teeth as you roll through multiple inversions, you’ll be launched a final time at 70 miles per hour (113 kilometers per hour) and up a 155 foot hill (47.2 meters) to just narrowly avoid becoming dino-chow!
The thrilling ride is accompanied by an breathtakingly immersive queue, where you will see and encounter the raptors several times before even boarding the ride train (as well as other neat Jurassic Park and World easter eggs!)
Have you survived VelociCoaster? What other types of Jurassic rides or offerings would you like to see come to Universal Destinations and Resorts around the world? Lets us know in the comments below!
After a lengthy closure, Jurassic Park: The Ride at Universal Studios Japan is set to reopen in 2025, and a lot sooner than you think!
Back in July of 2023, it was reported that Universal Studios in Japan would be closing Jurassic Park: The Ride for a lengthy refurbishment. While outlets said that the ride would reopen at some point in 2025, no official date was ever given. Since the closure, the official Universal Studios Japan website has had the ride listed as being closed ‘indefinitely.’ Since the official closure in September of 2023, very little news or information has been given on the status of the refurbishment, with any updates solely coming from theme park vlogging videos. For months there have been no real or official updates of any kind.
Previously, the only other Jurassic ride to undergo such a lengthy closure was the original Jurassic Park: The Ride in Universal Hollywood. which closed in 2018 and was to be replaced with Jurassic World: The Ride in 2019. The replacement was met with a mixed to favorable response, with many happy that new animatronics and effects were added to a ride that needed a good amount of updates and fixes, but that certain elements felt incomplete or cut and a bit of the original magic and storytelling was absent.
While some speculated that perhaps Japan would be going through the IP change, it had never been stated that the ride would be changing so dramatically. Moreover, in the last year, there has been no change at all to any of the signage or theming in the area of the park. So it seems like Japan has kept with the more iconic and recognizable JurassicPark branding. So perhaps the ride will stay mostly the same, with all the major animatronics being replaced with more updated technology and effects?
Well, guests to Universal Japan will finally be able to ride the ever-flowing river once again as Jurassic Park: The Ride prepares to open its gates again, on January 8th of 2025!! The reopening marks the end of a sixteen-month-long refurbishment (six months longer than the Park to World flip in Universal Hollywood.)
The official Universal Japan X account announced the reopening in a post, stating:
‘Jurassic Park – The Ride, which has been closed for renovations since September 2023, will reopen on Wednesday, January 8, 2025. Thank you all for your understanding and cooperation. Please look forward to the reopening.’
Accompanying the announcement was a short teaser video:
To many the teaser may be a tad… underwhelming. After such a long time of being closed, all we are essentially seeing is stock footage of the ride pre-refurbishment. When Jurassic World: The Ride was preparing to open after only ten months there was a special teaser released to build excitement for the opening, and something along those lines would have been a tad more exciting to see.
But all this just begs the question… what will the ride look like once it opens in two weeks; what exactly are we in store for? Universal Japan has played the entire refurbishment very close to their chest, and it seems like if they have made any major updates to the dinosaurs, ride system, or other effects they plan on keeping it a secret until the ride is reopened to the public on the 8th.
We very much are looking forward to the reopening of this legendary attraction. It marks the start of what is sure to be a massive dino-sized year to come for Jurassic fans! Moreover, the fact that Japan has chosen to retain the iconic Jurassic Park branding instead of changing it to Jurassic World is noteworthy, and hopefully, if the ride is a success in popularity and excitement to Universal guests upon its reopening it means that all Jurassic rides and attractions aren’t necessarily resorted to the fate of being changed to the Jurassic World model.
Are you excited about the reopening of Jurassic Park: The Ride in Japan? Would you like to see more Universal parks refurbishing their Jurassic rides and areas, and if so- what kind of attractions would you like to see? Let us know in the comments below!
Conceptual rendering of the main entry for Jurassic World: The Experience -Courtesy of AWC
This week, NEON (the production group responsible for the popular Jurassic World: The Exhibition) along with Asset World Corp Public Company Limited (AWC) and Universal Live Events & Location Based Entertainment, announced that Jurassic World: The Experience will soon be coming to Bangkok, Thailand!
The new walk-through attraction has been ‘specifically curated’ for Asiatique, a riverfront destination location famous for its culture, entertainment, shopping, and restaurants. It will be housed in a 6,000 square meter (64,583 square feet) location, and feature life-like animatronic dinosaurs and environments that will put guests in the middle of their own adventure on Isla Nublar. To create this fully immersive experience, the attraction is also said to blend ‘real-world science and education with the very best in high-quality entertainment.’ Along with the attraction will be an all-new themed restaurant as well, which is intended to ‘seamlessly blend the immersive journey with culinary delights’ for visitors of the destination.
(From left to right) The press conference of Jurassic World: The Experience, in Bangkok, held at Asiatique The Riverfront Destination led by Mr. Michael Hariz, Chief Commercial Business Officer, Asset World Corp Public Company Limited, Dr. Paitoon Wongsasutthikul, Chief Investment Officer, Asset World Corp Public Company Limited, Mrs. Wallapa Traisorat, Chief Executive Officer and President, Asset World Corp Public Company Limited, Mr. Chadchart Sitthiphan, Bangkok Governor, Mr. Nithee Seeprae, Deputy Governor for Marketing Communications, Tourism Authority of Thailand, Mr. Gerald Raines, SVP, Live Events and Location Based Entertainment Universal Destinations and Experiences, Mr. Ron Tan, Executive Chairman & Group CEO, NEON, and Mr. Kurt Baker, Executive Vice President, Global Marketing, NEON.
A new immersive edutainment experience will surely thrill countless visitors, as similar productions, exhibits, and destinations have throughout the history of the Jurassic franchise. Such experiences have been hits with the public, dating back to The Dinosaurs of Jurassic Park exhibit, to the Jurassic Park Institute Tour, and NEON’s already widely popular Jurassic Park: The Exhibition (which opened in 2017, and has been touring on several continents since!)
While there is no specific information on what guests can expect to encounter, on NEON’s Instragram a juvenile Bumpy [puppet] with a handler was present at the press conference suggesting further that we’ll see a lot of favorite moments and dinosaurs from the franchise, as well as the utilization of some of the similar “DNA” as the Exhibition and theme parks to bring the dinosaurs to life for the attraction (assuming most of the animals will be brought to life by Creature Technology.)
That being said, Jurassic World The Experience will be big. Very big. To give you some perspective, Jurassic World: The Exhibition tends to range between 1858-2322 square meters (20,000-25,000 square feet,) so this new experience will be over twice as large! That could mean we are in store for multiple new show moments, exhibits, or dinosaurs. While the new café and restaurant should be taken into consideration, the release states that the total size of the expansion is set to be about 10,000 square meters (or 108,000 square feet (which makes this installation more comparable in size to Universal’s Horror Unleashed project, at around 10,219 square meters/110,00 square feet!) So if they are saying that the Experience alone is 6,000 square meters, insinuating that the rest is for the eateries… it means we are in store for something truly special.
Currently, Jurassic World: The Experience is expected to open in quarter 2 of 2025, which would mean they’re aiming for sometime roughly between April and June of 2025. You can join an information waitlist for Jurassic World: The Experience by visiting its official website, and you can read the full press release in its entirety, here.
