Universal Just Filed Permits for a New Intamin Ride in Islands of Adventure—And It Could Be the End of Lost Continent As We Know It

Universal Orlando just filed a construction permit that has theme park fans buzzing—and it could signal the biggest transformation Islands of Adventure has seen in years. According to WDW News Today, a permit recorded in Orange County, Florida on December 16, 2025, lists Universal City Development Partners as the grantor and Intamin as the grantee for new construction in the Lost Continent area.

If that name sounds familiar, it should—Intamin is the powerhouse manufacturer behind two of Universal Orlando’s most beloved attractions: Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and Jurassic World VelociCoaster, both currently operating at Islands of Adventure.

What the Permit Reveals

The permit describes “specialty equipment,” which is theme park speak for a new ride system or major attraction component. Based on the location and Intamin’s involvement, industry observers believe Universal is planning a themed thrill ride—most likely a launch coaster—for the Lost Continent area.

This is significant because Lost Continent has been one of Islands of Adventure’s original themed lands since the park opened in 1999. The area has already lost several of its signature attractions over the years, and this new permit could represent the final chapter in its transformation.

Why This Matters for Universal Fans

Intamin’s track record at Universal speaks for itself. Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure revolutionized storytelling on roller coasters when it opened, combining innovative ride technology with deeply immersive theming. VelociCoaster quickly became one of the most critically acclaimed thrill rides in the world. The company has also worked on Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts and most recently delivered Hiccup’s Wing Gliders at the newly opened Epic Universe.

The fact that Universal is bringing Intamin back for another major project suggests they’re planning something special—not just a replacement attraction, but a flagship experience that could redefine this section of the park.

What Could Replace Lost Continent?

While Universal hasn’t made any official announcements, speculation is running wild about what intellectual property could anchor the new land. Some fans believe this is where a Legend of Zelda land could rise, bringing Nintendo’s adventurous franchise to life alongside the existing Super Nintendo World at Epic Universe. Others think Universal could choose Pokémon to anchor the area, tying in with rumored expansions across other Universal parks worldwide.

There’s also speculation that this could be an expansion of the adjacent Wizarding World of Harry Potter—Hogsmeade, though the permit’s location and scope suggest an entirely new themed land is more likely.

The Bigger Picture

This permit arrives at a fascinating time for Universal Orlando. The company just opened Epic Universe, its ambitious third gate featuring five immersive themed lands. Rather than resting on that success, Universal appears to be doubling down on investments across its existing parks—upgrading attractions, adding new experiences, and ensuring Islands of Adventure remains competitive in Orlando’s increasingly crowded theme park market.

For visitors planning trips in the next few years, this development is worth watching. While no theme or opening date has been announced, the filing of construction permits typically signals that projects are moving from planning to active development. If history is any guide, we could see vertical construction begin within the next year, with an opening potentially targeted for 2027 or 2028.

One thing is certain: when Intamin and Universal team up, magic happens. And Lost Continent—one of the last remaining opening-day lands at Islands of Adventure—is about to get a transformation worthy of the theme park capital of the world.