Universal Adds Entrance Construction as Lost Continent Demolition Advances

The visible work at the park entry points to a wider redevelopment effort that could reshape a long‑standing Islands of Adventure land.

Overview

Temporary beige scrim and brown construction walls were installed around Island Market and Export and the Port of Entry Christmas Shoppe on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, and both stores remain open while crews work behind the barriers.
A much larger demolition is underway deeper in Islands of Adventure where crews have removed major original elements, including the former Eighth Voyage of Sindbad theatre, and work has reached the former Poseidon's Fury area.
Universal has not announced what will replace the Lost Continent and reports linking the site to a Pokémon‑themed land remain unconfirmed and should be treated as industry speculation.
The entrance work appears relatively modest next to the Lost Continent demolition and looks like a phased refurbishment affecting parts of existing Port of Entry storefronts rather than the start of a new entry build.
The activity reflects Universal Orlando’s broader push to update older park areas with franchise‑driven investments after Epic Universe opened in 2025, and guests should expect more visible construction and long‑term changes to park layouts.