Universal Orlando guests expect many things when they walk through the front gates—thrills, crowds, maybe even rain. What they don’t expect is ice. Yet that’s exactly what unfolded as a historic cold snap pushed temperatures into the mid-20s, forcing Universal Orlando Resort to dramatically alter operations across every corner of the destination.
The cold arrived quickly, and its effects were visible almost immediately. Protective coverings appeared around landscaping. Water features were drained. Entire ride systems sat motionless. It became clear that this wasn’t a short-lived chill, but a weather event Universal had to treat seriously.
@ryaninorlando Florida wasn’t ready for this cold weather! #universalstudios #universalorlando #frozen #freezing ♬ original sound – pink_panther
One of the most talked-about moments came from Seuss Landing, where One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish appeared visibly frozen. Guests shared videos showing ice buildup on ride elements—something nearly unheard of in Central Florida. The visuals alone told the story better than any official announcement could.
@senseipawz its 25 Degrees and 1fish, 2 fish is frozen #universalstudios #themepark #drseuss #cold #winter ♬ Ice Ice Baby – Vanilla Ice
As temperatures remained dangerously low, Universal began closing attractions at a rapid pace. At Universal Islands of Adventure, major rides went offline, including Doctor Doom’s Fearfall, Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls, Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, The Incredible Hulk Coaster, and The High in the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride. These weren’t temporary pauses. In many cases, attractions remained closed for the entire day.
Across the resort, guests noticed water being drained from rides like Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls, a clear sign that Universal was protecting infrastructure rather than risking damage. These systems aren’t built for freezing conditions, and pushing through operations could have led to long-term shutdowns far worse than a single cold day.
@ourfavoriteescapes Ok this weather is no joke. It SAYS 41 degrees but…. The wind has been clocked at 30+. All the outdoor rides at Islands of Adventure have been closed since 4pm. With the wind it feels like 15 degrees. I feel like Dr. Evil floating through space when he is frozen. #islandsofadventure #universalstudios #universalorlando #themeparks #orlando ♬ original sound – Teton Ridge
At Universal Studios Florida, delays and closures stacked up as well. The Trolls Rollercoaster experienced delayed openings, Hogwarts Express shut down entirely, and Men in Black: Alien Attack closed, limiting options for guests already navigating reduced capacity.
Even Epic Universe wasn’t spared. Signature attractions like Dragon Racer’s Rally, Mine-Cart Madness, and Stardust Racers were all taken offline due to weather concerns, adding pressure to a park already operating under close scrutiny.
Perhaps the most definitive move came with the full closure of Universal’s Volcano Bay. With wind chills and freezing temperatures, operating a water park simply wasn’t feasible.
Social media filled in the gaps left by official updates. Videos showed bundled-up guests, silent coaster tracks, and frozen scenery that felt more like the Midwest than Orlando. For many, it was their first time seeing a Florida theme park in true cold-weather mode.
While frustrating for guests, the closures highlighted how seriously Universal treats safety and long-term operations. Florida theme parks are engineered for heat, not freezing temperatures. In moments like this, shutting down isn’t just responsible—it’s essential.
