The popular Raptor Encounter at Universal’s Islands of Adventure has been moved to a new, temporary location, to make way for demolition and construction related to the new unannounced roller coaster project. We had previously reported on this possibility back in January.

Guests can now meet Blue the raptor to the right of the Pizza Predattoria restaurant, which is located across the path from the original Raptor Encounter. The new location is said to be a temporary set-up that will be used during construction. The original Raptor Encounter is now behind work walls.

New Raptor Encounter located under roof that was previously used for outdoor dining seating

New Raptor Encounter themed as a raptor cage with a window area

The relocation of the raptor meet and greet is part of a larger project that will re-shape certain areas of the Jurassic Park island at the park, and will eventually lead to a brand new roller coaster attraction opening in the coming years. See our previous article and video for more details on the project, and stay tuned for more information as it happens.

Entrance to former Raptor Encounter now behind work walls

Former location’s exit area behind walls

The original Raptor Encounter has not yet been demolished, but that is expected to happen soon, along with the rest of the defunct Triceratops Encounter area

Universal has yet to announce anything regarding the new coaster project, or even the sweeping changes happening around the land at Islands of Adventure. The new roller coaster is expected to be raptor-themed, and may incorporate a new, more permanent home for the Raptor Encounter when it is complete. For now, guests can find Blue and her fellow raptors, between Pizza Predattoria and the Jurassic bathrooms.

Special thanks to DreamfinderGuy on Twitter for permission to use these photographs of the new Raptor Encounter and closed previous location. Stay tuned for more news related to this massive new project as it happens!

Rumors for the opening of the new coaster range from as early as 2020, to the summer of 2021 at the latest. If you’re thinking about booking your next trip to Universal Orlando, request your free vacation quote from our good friend Elizabeth at Destinations in Florida. She can help you get the best deals on tickets, your on-site hotel room, and more — and her services are completely free!

Stay tuned for more theme park news and updates. Subscribe to the news feed or enter your email below to never miss an update. Photos: DreamfinderGuy

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