The future is looking bright for Universal Orlando Resort. The theme park saw a successful past year and a half, even when facing the challenges of park closures and worldwide health concerns, and still managed to open a brand-new show at Universal Studios Florida (The Bourne Stuntacular) and an amazing new ride over at Islands of Adventure — the Jurassic World VelociCoaster. They have also been able to successfully put on an impressive Halloween Horror Nights event. 

Coaster cars crest the lift hill of Velocicoaster
Velocicoaster crests the lift hill

But Universal Orlando doesn’t seem to be slowing down any time soon. In fact, information we’ve stumbled upon has indicated that some big changes are coming to a couple of beloved attractions at Universal Studios Florida. So what exactly is happening? 

Globe at Universal Orlando Resort
The globe at the entrance of Universal Studios Florida

According to our sources, Shrek 4D will permanently close in Jan. 2022. The attraction has been one of the staples at the front of the Studios park for the past 18 years, and is sure to be missed. The details surrounding the exact closing date have yet to be released, but it’s probably safe to say Universal will keep the attraction operating during the busy holiday season, and close it soon after. There has also been no word yet as to what will potentially be replacing Shrek 4D. Keep your eye out for more information regarding this in the weeks to come. 

Poster of Shrek and Dragon
Poster outside the Shrek 4D soundstage

One potential replacement for Shrek 4D could be  a ride similar to The Secret Life of Pets: Off The Leash attraction that is currently operating at Universal Studios Hollywood. That attraction probably has the capability of fitting into the current soundstage footprint of Shrek 4D and would be a comparable new experience for guests. 

Attraction entrance of Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash
Attraction sign of The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash

Additionally, our sources have indicated that the Revenge of the Mummy attraction will be experiencing an extended downtime for refurbishment starting in Jan. 2022. The ride will reportedly be closed from January to late summer 2022. The reason for the refurbishment is allegedly to provide Mummy with technical improvements. More information about these changes will hopefully be coming soon as well. 

Entrance of Revenge of the Mummy
Façade of the Revenge of the Mummy ride

And while Universal Studios will be missing two key attractions in the late winter and spring, they will not be skimping on the in-park entertainment. After being cut short in 2020 and having a very limited occurrence in 2021, Universal has announced that its Mardi Gras event will be returning in full in 2022. The event is scheduled to take place from Feb. 5 – Apr. 24, and will feature the return of the Mardi Gras parade and concert series, as well as the Mardi Gras-specific food vendors. The performers have yet to be announced, but stay tuned for that line up, which should be released in the next month or two. 

Entrance sign featuring Mardi Gras courtyard
Entrance to the Mardi Gras food courtyard

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Let’s Hear From You

What do you think about the changes coming to Universal Studios Florida? Are you sad to see Shrek go? Do you think they’ll keep the characters even if the attraction is no longer around? And are you excited about the return of the full Mardi Gras event? Let us know! 

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Caitlyn Wisser
Caitlyn is a seasoned writer, editor, and content creator who specializes in all things entertainment. A video game enthusiast, she spends her spare time streaming a variety of things for her online following. She loves stories and theme parks and can be found spending her off-hours traveling to various tourist destinations around the world.