Greetings, fellow adventurers! Shadow Mouse here, scurrying through the latest happenings in the most magical and thrilling corner of Florida. From futuristic tunnels beneath Universal to vibrant Mardi Gras celebrations, and even a new coaster launching soon, Orlando is buzzing with excitement! We’re also checking out some stunning hidden gems and keeping an eye on park crowds as Presidents’ Day approaches.
Don’t Miss This!
- Tunnel Vision for Universal!: Universal Orlando might get an underground tunnel system by Elon Musk’s Boring Company to connect its parks and ease traffic.
- Mardi Gras Magic is Happening!: Universal Studios Florida is alive with its International Flavors of Carnaval, bringing parades, music, and global eats!
- Arts Bloom in Downtown!: Get ready for IMMERSE Fest, a vibrant outdoor arts experience taking over Downtown Orlando with performances and installations.
- New Coaster Alert!: LEGOLAND Florida is launching its brand-new indoor Galacticoaster, perfect for families seeking interstellar fun.
Pro Tip: Planning a theme park day around a major event like Mardi Gras or a holiday weekend? Look up ride refurbishments and Lightning Lane availability in advance! Knowing what’s closed (like Jurassic Park River Adventure or Hogwarts Express) and which passes are already gone can save you a world of hurt and help you pivot to another park for lighter crowds.
Today’s Top News
- Elon Musk’s Boring Company Nominated to Connect Universal Orlando Parks via Tunnels
The Shingle Creek Transit and Utility Community Development District has selected Elon Musk’s Boring Company to design and build an underground tunnel system connecting Universal Orlando Resort theme parks, including the upcoming Epic Universe, with the goal of alleviating traffic congestion.
- Universal Orlando Resort Sees Jurassic Park Closures and Camp Jurassic Reopening; Hogwarts Express Also Closed
Jurassic Park River Adventure at Universal’s Islands of Adventure is undergoing an extended refurbishment from January 5 through November 19, 2026, while the Hogwarts Express is also closed for maintenance from February 9-23, 2026. Conversely, Camp Jurassic has fully reopened after a period of partial closure, offering interactive attractions to guests once again.
- Disney World Landscaping Undergoes Cleanup After Freeze; Frozen Ever After Receives Animatronic Updates
Walt Disney World horticulture teams are cleaning up extensive freeze-damaged landscaping across the property, particularly at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and Animal Kingdom, following a late January cold outbreak. Simultaneously, Epcot’s Frozen Ever After is set to reopen in February with updated animatronics after a refurbishment.
- LEGOLAND Florida Resort Launches Galacticoaster February 27, 2026
LEGOLAND Florida Resort is set to launch its first-ever indoor family coaster, Galacticoaster, on February 27, 2026. This new attraction will feature customizable LEGO spacecraft for an interstellar mission with thrills and immersive storytelling.
Upcoming Orlando Events
- Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval
February 7 – April 4, 2026 at Universal Studios Florida: A lively celebration at Universal Studios Florida with nightly parades, live music, festive entertainment, and international cuisine.
- IMMERSE Fest 2026
February 20–22, 2026 at Downtown Orlando, FL: An open-air arts experience transforming Downtown Orlando with large-scale installations, live performances, interactive exhibits, and immersive storytelling.
- Galacticoaster Launch at LEGOLAND Florida Resort
February 27, 2026 at LEGOLAND Florida Resort, Winter Haven, FL: LEGOLAND Florida’s first-ever indoor family coaster is set to debut, offering families a thrilling interstellar mission with customizable LEGO spacecraft and immersive storytelling.
Hidden Gems – Explore Beyond the Parks
- Wekiwa Springs State Park
A natural spring park just north of Orlando, offering crystal-clear waters for swimming and kayaking amidst lush tropical hammocks and extensive trails.
- Harry P. Leu Gardens
A 50-acre botanical oasis minutes from downtown Orlando, featuring diverse cultivated gardens, a tropical rainforest, Florida’s largest formal rose garden, and a historic house museum.
- Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour
An hour-long guided cruise through three of Winter Park’s pristine lakes and narrow canals, showcasing beautiful homes, cypress trees, and local wildlife.
Today’s Crowd Calendar
- Magic Kingdom: High
- Epcot: High
- Universal Studios Florida: High
- Islands of Adventure: High