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Retired Iconic Ride - Jaws® at Universal Studios Florida


Jaws at Universal Studios Florida

It’s hard to remember a time before The Wizarding World for many of us who began visiting Universal Parks after 2012 but there was a time when Jaws the Ride was a signature attraction at Universal Studios Florida that captured the imagination of visitors for many years prior to the construction of Diagon Alley. Opening with the theme park in 1990, the attraction was based on the iconic film "Jaws" directed by Steven Spielberg. It brought the thrilling world of the great white shark  and the town of Amity to life in a captivating and immersive experience.


The area where London and Diagon Alley sit currently is where the Island of Amity and the Jaws area of the Lagoon were. From the moment guests boarded the tour boats, they were transported to the fictional Amity Island, where guests  embarked on a scenic voyage that soon turned into a pulse-pounding adventure. As the boats ventured into the waters, the ominous presence of the infamous great white shark "Bruce" or more commonly known as, Jaws, lurked beneath the surface, creating an atmosphere of suspense and excitement.


The attraction featured incredibly realistic animatronics, special effects, and dramatic encounters with the menacing shark, culminating in a climactic battle between the tour boat and the relentless predator. The high-energy, action-packed experience thrilled guests of all ages and left a lasting impression on those who dared to take the journey into the perilous waters of Amity.


Despite early issues with the ride and an extended overhaul of the ride shortly after the park opened, Jaws the Ride became a beloved and iconic fixture at Universal Studios Florida, delighting countless visitors and becoming a must-see attraction for fans of the film and theme park enthusiasts alike. Its immersive storytelling and heart-pounding thrills made it a standout experience within the park's early lineup of attractions.


However, as Universal Studios Florida continued to evolve and expand, the decision was made to close Jaws the Ride to make way for new and innovative experiences. Once The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Hogsmeade opened it was quickly evident that Universal had struck gold and it was time for the Wizarding World to expand into Universal Studios Florida. With the construction of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Diagon Alley, the iconic Jaws attraction gave room for the magical world of Harry Potter to come to life. Captivating guests with its spellbinding recreation of Diagon Alley and the thrilling Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts ride.


While the closure of Jaws the Ride marked the end of an era for Universal Studios Florida, it also heralded the beginning of a new chapter in the park's history. As Diagon Alley and other exciting attractions joined the park's lineup, guests were treated to an array of new experiences that continued to elevate the standard of theme park entertainment at Universal Studios Florida.


Though Jaws the Ride may have departed, its legacy lives on in the memories of those who experienced its thrilling escapades, making it a cherished part of Universal Studios Florida's history. Even today you can find small easter eggs of this iconic attraction (in The Wizarding World - Diagon Alley as well as other areas of the park). As the park continues to innovate and surprise visitors with new adventures, the spirit of Jaws the Ride remains an integral part of the legacy and enduring magic of Universal Studios Florida.



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