A major shift could be coming to Universal Orlando Resort, and it might catch some guests off guard: smoking may soon be completely banned within the parks. While the company hasn’t made an official announcement, internal reports and Team Member conversations suggest the policy is set to change as soon as May 15, 2025.
A Subtle Lead-Up to a Sweeping Ban
If confirmed, this would mark the final step in a gradual rollback that’s been years in the making. Universal began limiting designated smoking areas in 2022, trimming them down to just one per park. Since then, guests have been restricted to smoking in small, out-of-the-way corners—Gramercy Park in Universal Studios Florida, the Port of Entry lagoon in Islands of Adventure, and a tucked-away spot in Wave Village at Volcano Bay. Epic Universe, the highly anticipated fourth gate, currently includes a designated space near its dragon-themed portal, but even that may be on the chopping block.
According to multiple reports shared by Universal employees online, all of these smoking areas will be removed starting May 15. Notably, this new rule is said to cover e-cigarettes and vaporizers as well, signaling a zero-tolerance approach to smoking inside the theme parks.
Universal has not yet updated its official website or app to reflect the change, and there has been no signage added in the parks—at least not yet.
Following in Disney’s Footsteps?
Though the decision feels abrupt, it mirrors a precedent set by Universal’s biggest competitor. In 2019, Disney eliminated all smoking areas inside its domestic theme parks, relocating them just outside park entrances. The move was widely covered at the time and praised by many as a positive step for guest comfort and health—though it also drew frustration from those who felt the shift didn’t offer a realistic accommodation for smoking guests.
Should Universal follow a similar path, we may soon see new smoking areas set up outside each park’s gates, possibly near security or entrance checkpoints. What’s unclear is whether the same restrictions will extend to Universal CityWalk, the resort’s dining and entertainment district that still offers multiple designated smoking sections.
What It Means for Guests
If these internal reports prove accurate, this could be a significant change in the Universal Orlando guest experience—particularly for international tourists and longtime passholders accustomed to the previous rules. While some guests will surely welcome the change, others may feel blindsided if enforcement begins without proper communication or signage.
For now, no official word has been released by Universal Orlando. But if you’re planning a visit after May 15, it may be wise to prepare for a completely smoke-free park experience—and to double-check the resort’s guest policies before your next trip.
