Epic Universe Ticket Drama, TapuTapu Retires, and Triceratops Encounter Origins (Ep. 49)

Jim Hill and Eric Hersey dig into the recent uproar over Epic Universe preview ticket availability—and why Universal quietly opened the gates to everyone. Then they dive into the surprising retirement of Volcano Bay’s TapuTapu system and the fascinating history behind the short-lived Triceratops Encounter at Islands of Adventure. Epic Universe preview tickets go public, frustrating some Annual Passholders What low crowds and Disney discounts might reveal about this summer’s Orlando tourism outlook Universal’s guest survey tactics—and how they’re targeting Disney’s “seamless” brand language Volcano Bay announces the retirement of TapuTapu and a five-month closure for overhaul Universal Hollywood FanFest reactions and Drew Taylor’s tip for avoiding long lines The box office power of Wicked, Despicable Me, and Universal’s 360-degree promo strategy The history of Triceratops Encounter and how a 1960s Easter special led to one of Universal’s biggest animatronic swings Whether you’re here for the latest theme park headlines or the long-forgotten stories behind Universal’s creative gambles, this episode is packed with insights, speculation, and a few dinosaurs along the way. Support Our Sponsor: Be Our Guest Vacations Planning your next Universal vacation? Be Our Guest Vacations is a Platinum-level Earmarked travel agency with concierge-level service to make every trip magical. Their team of expert agents plans vacations across the globe, from Disney and Universal to cruises and adventures, ensuring you have the best possible experience without the stress. Book Now Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices