Park notes: Universal coronavirus prep / Dockside menu / Ratatouille ride opening date?
Just like other theme parks, Universal Orlando can't escape questions about its response to the coronavirus outbreak.
Spaceship Earth begins major renovation May 26
The next version of Spaceship Earth will move away from the attraction's traditional focus on communication and technology to tell "the story of humanity."
Park notes: Epcot changes / Busch Gardens Mardi Gras / SeaWorld’s ‘Blackfish’ settlement
On Feb. 15, Electric Umbrella and Pin Central at Epcot will close, followed by Agent P's World Showcase Adventure on Feb. 17.
Park notes: ‘Star Wars’ show closing date / Space 220 delay? / Valentine’s Day at Icon Park
The closure comes just before the March 4 opening date for Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway at Disney's Hollywood Studios.
Trial canceled for alleged Disney World thief; Buzzy theft still unsolved
Scheduled to begin Jan. 21, the trial is now listed as cancelled on the Orange County Clerk of Courts website. The only upcoming proceeding in the case is a plea hearing scheduled for Feb. 4.
January 2020 brings temporary ride closures to Disney World
The resort’s busiest period for ride refurbishments has historically come after the first weekend of January, once the holiday crowds have dissipated. January 2020 will be no exception.
Park notes: Regal Eagle host / Legoland, BGTB preschool cards / Universal Lord of the Rings rumors
Sam Eagle of the Muppets will be the host of a new barbecue-themed restaurant, Regal Eagle Smokehouse, opening soon at Epcot's World Showcase.
5 biggest new theme park attractions coming to Central Florida in 2020
The 2020 lineup may seem less impressive — after all, nothing here is on the scale of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. But these new attractions have the potential to shake up the competition in the most crowded theme park market in the world.
Park notes: Why Orlando tourist taxes don’t go to roads / Star Tours update / Epcot entrance
In 2018, $277 million was generated in Orange County by a 6 percent tax on hotel rooms. Most of that revenue will go to Visit Orlando, a nonprofit group to promote the tourism industry in Orlando — including major theme parks like Disney World and Universal Orlando.