Universal Orlando Resort visitors have several upcoming closures to keep on their radar, especially if they’re planning a vacation during the holiday season or early next year.
Islands of Adventure is undergoing a mix of temporary refurbishments and permanent removals as Universal continues to update its theme parks. While some experiences will return after brief maintenance periods, others won’t be coming back at all.
And for guests hoping to enjoy one of the park’s longtime favorites, a newly extended refurbishment means an even longer wait.
Here are four major closures that could affect visits to Islands of Adventure through 2026 and into 2027.
The Lost Continent Is Gradually Disappearing
Universal is continuing to remove one of Islands of Adventure’s original themed lands, which opened alongside the park in 1999.
The Lost Continent once featured mythology-inspired architecture, ancient ruins, and unique entertainment experiences.
However, several recognizable locations have disappeared.
Poseidon’s Fury, a walkthrough attraction featuring ancient gods and special effects, permanently closed in May 2023.
The Mystic Fountain and Treasures of Poseidon merchandise shop have also closed.
Universal is continuing permanent closures throughout 2026 and 2027 as it prepares the area for future development.
Unlike routine refurbishments, these former experiences aren’t expected to return.
Universal hasn’t revealed complete replacement plans, leaving questions about the land’s future.
Hogwarts Express Temporarily Closing in November
Visitors hoping to travel between Universal Orlando’s two Wizarding World of Harry Potter locations will briefly lose a popular transportation option.
Hogwarts Express is scheduled to close on November 4, 2026, with reopening planned for November 5.
The train connects Hogsmeade at Islands of Adventure with Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida.
Guests board at Hogsmeade Station or King’s Cross Station, experiencing themed scenes and familiar characters along the way.
The experience changes depending on which direction passengers travel.
During the closure, visitors wanting to explore both Wizarding World locations will need to walk between the parks through their regular entrances.
Universal hasn’t announced any major changes to the attraction’s storyline or experience.
However, another temporary closure scheduled for early next year will last considerably longer.
Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges Closing for Refurbishment
Toon Lagoon visitors will temporarily lose one of Islands of Adventure’s wettest attractions in January.
Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges is scheduled to close on January 4, 2027, with its refurbishment continuing through February 2.
The water ride sends guests through rapids and waterfalls aboard circular rafts, delivering plenty of opportunities to get soaked.
Although popular during Florida’s warmer months, its closure is scheduled for a cooler part of the year.
That timing may make the shutdown less disruptive for guests who avoid water rides in colder weather.
Universal hasn’t announced significant changes to the attraction’s storyline or ride experience.
For now, the refurbishment appears to involve temporary maintenance rather than a major redesign.
Meanwhile, another popular water ride has already been unavailable for much of 202e, and its reopening has been delayed.
Jurassic Park River Adventure Reopening Pushed Back
Guests visiting Islands of Adventure during Thanksgiving will have to wait longer to experience Jurassic Park River Adventure.
The attraction closed on January 5, 2026, for an extensive refurbishment.
Universal originally listed November 20, 2026, as its reopening date, just before Thanksgiving.
However, that schedule has changed.
Jurassic Park River Adventure is now scheduled to reopen on December 16, 2026, extending the closure by nearly four weeks.
That means visitors arriving during Thanksgiving and early December shouldn’t expect to ride.
The attraction has operated since Islands of Adventure opened in 1999, taking guests through a dinosaur habitat before ending with a dramatic escape and steep plunge.
Universal hasn’t shared a complete list of refurbishment improvements.
For now, the revised reopening date means one of the park’s longtime favorites will remain unavailable throughout much of the holiday season.
What Guests Should Know Before Visiting
These closures won’t all happen at once, but they could still affect vacation plans over the coming months, especially for families hoping to experience their favorite rides.
Guests should review Universal Orlando’s operating calendar before arriving, particularly if specific attractions are important to their visit. Planning ahead could help visitors avoid disappointment and make the most of their time inside the parks.
While temporary refurbishments will eventually restore several experiences, The Lost Continent’s permanent transformation will continue into 2027.
And with Jurassic Park River Adventure now targeting December 16 for reopening, visitors should keep an eye out for any additional schedule updates as Universal continues to prepare for another busy year.
