Outside the Disney Bubble

Universal Closes Popular Florida Park for at Least Two Days

A popular Universal Studios location is now currently closed.

An aerial view of Universal Studios' Volcano Bay showcases a vibrant water park with a large volcano structure, winding water slides, and multiple pools. Surrounded by lush greenery and various buildings, it's set against a cityscape under a partly cloudy sky. Enjoy it before the closing bell rings!.
Credit: Universal

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Universal’s Volcano Bay has closed for inclement weather and will remain offline through February 19, 2025, with hopes that the park can reopen later in the week. The weather over the past two months has taken a turn toward colder temperatures, resulting in several temporary closures due to safety concerns for guests and staff alike. Regular visitors have noticed this trend, which comes just as Spring Break approaches.

Volcano Bay, which debuted on May 25, 2017, has become a significant draw for both residents and tourists in Florida. Despite the recent weather interruptions, the park is poised for a resurgence as the warmer spring weather rolls in.

Overview of Volcano Bay Attractions

Attractions at Volcano Bay are what truly set it apart from other water parks. The park features a variety of thrilling slides and unique experiences, catering to water lovers of all ages. One of its standout attractions is the Ko’okiri Body Plunge. This ride is not for the faint of heart; it boasts a dramatic 125-foot drop at an exhilarating angle of 70 degrees, designed to send guests plummeting straight down.

Another crowd favorite is the Krakatau Coaster, a hybrid ride that offers an experience akin to a roller coaster rather than a traditional water slide. This ride accommodates four guests in a canoe that slides through the park’s iconic volcano spire, adding a splash of excitement alongside mist and water jets that enhance the experience.

Concept art for Epic Universe, specifically the entrance to the large theme park showing guests walking through the gates.
Credit: Universal

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The temporary closure of Volcano Bay isn’t the only change happening at Universal Orlando Resort. The broader Universal CityWalk has seen a wave of closures over the past few months, creating a shift in the resort’s outdoor dining and shopping scene. Local favorites have shut their doors, including Sparky’s, a sweet shop that was once popular among guests, and Mini Monster, a coffee and boba shop that announced its own closure last October.

These changes highlight a significant transition at Universal Studios, despite the backdrop of exciting upcoming developments. One major project is Epic Universe, an ambitious new theme park currently under construction. Slated to open on May 22, 2025, Epic Universe is set to introduce visitors to new worlds based on beloved franchises such as Nintendo’s Super Mario and the magical realm of Harry Potter.

As warmer weather approaches, there’s considerable anticipation for the upcoming Spring Break season. Many families and thrill-seekers are excited to return to Volcano Bay and explore its attractions. With new developments and the excitement of Epic Universe on the horizon, attendance figures are projected to rise significantly.

Universal Orlando is gearing up to welcome visitors with not just Volcano Bay, but its broader resort offerings. The combination of established favorite attractions and newly released experiences should make for an unforgettable guest experience in the months to come. The attention to detail in the upcoming Epic Universe will certainly appeal to fans and newcomers alike, ensuring that the resort remains one of Florida’s top vacation destinations.

Luke Dammann

When at Disney world, Luke will probably be found eating with his favorite animatronic, Sonny Eclipse at Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe. When not at Disney World, Luke will probably be found defending Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe to people who claim "there are better restaurants"

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