Summer vacation season is almost here, and Universal Orlando Resort is preparing for one of its biggest stretches of the year. Between Epic Universe continuing to grow, special summer entertainment returning, and new themed offerings arriving across the parks, there is no shortage of excitement surrounding the resort right now.
At the same time, though, Universal has confirmed several attraction closures that could impact guests visiting over the next few months.
Some of the closures will only last a few weeks. Others will stretch through nearly the entire summer season.
Epic Universe Keeps Driving Attention
Universal Orlando has spent the last year riding on major momentum following the debut of Epic Universe. The new park recently reached its first anniversary and continues attracting guests eager to visit SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, and How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk.
The resort is also bringing back Volcano Bay Nights, which has become one of Universal’s most popular limited-time summer events. Guests attending the after-hours experience can enjoy shorter waits, entertainment, and exclusive food offerings after the water park closes to daytime visitors.
Universal Studios Florida is also preparing themed experiences tied to Steven Spielberg’s upcoming film Disclosure Day, adding even more activity across the resort this summer.
Unfortunately, not every attraction will be operating while those crowds arrive.
Jurassic Park River Adventure Faces Extended Closure
The longest closure on the list belongs to Jurassic Park River Adventure at Islands of Adventure.
The popular water attraction closed on January 5, 2026, and will remain unavailable until November 19, 2026.
That means guests visiting throughout the summer will not have access to one of Universal’s signature water rides during the hottest part of the year. The closure could easily increase wait times at nearby water attractions as guests search for ways to cool off.
Horror Make-Up Show Temporarily Goes Dark
Universal Studios Florida also closed the Horror Make-Up Show beginning May 12, 2026.
Universal expects the attraction to return sometime during winter 2026.
The long-running show has remained popular for years thanks to its mix of comedy, practical effects demonstrations, and classic Universal horror references. Its absence also removes one of the park’s largest indoor entertainment options during summer.
DreamWorks Land Losing Family Experiences
Families visiting Universal Studios Florida this summer may also notice changes inside DreamWorks Land.
Po’s Kung Fu Training Camp and Po Live! both closed on May 18, 2026, and are expected to stay closed through July 3, 2026.
The closures temporarily remove interactive play and entertainment offerings themed around the Kung Fu Panda franchise. For families with younger children, this creates fewer non-thrill attractions inside the park during one of the busiest seasons of the year.
Epic Universe and Islands of Adventure See Smaller Closures
Epic Universe is also temporarily missing Viking Training Camp inside How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk.
The play area closed from May 4 through May 22, 2026. While the downtime is short, it shows that Universal continues to adjust operations across its newest park following its opening year.
Meanwhile, Me Ship, The Olive at Islands of Adventure will close from May 26 through June 9, 2026.
The Popeye-themed play area may not be one of the resort’s biggest attractions, but it still gives younger guests an important space to play and cool off during Orlando’s intense summer temperatures.
Universal Still Has Plenty Planned
Even with multiple closures, Universal Orlando Resort is still filling the summer calendar with entertainment and limited-time experiences.
Universal Studios Florida’s San Francisco section will transform into an Amity-inspired area celebrating Jaws. Guests can expect themed snacks, exclusive merchandise, special photo ops, and collectible Coca-Cola drinks available at Chez Alcatraz.
Universal is also planning Fourth of July entertainment as summer crowds continue arriving at the resort.
For guests planning vacations, these closures may not completely change a trip. However, visitors hoping to experience every major attraction may want to check refurbishment calendars carefully before choosing travel dates.
