Universal Studios Florida’s last surviving opening-day attraction is about to go dark—but only for a few days. The E.T. Adventure is scheduled to close temporarily for maintenance beginning June 9, 2025, with a planned reopening date of June 14. While this short refurbishment is standard practice, it’s a rare pause for one of the park’s most legendary experiences.
A Ride Through the Stars—and Nostalgia
First opening with the park in 1990, E.T. Adventure isn’t just a classic—it’s a piece of Universal history. The attraction invites guests to hop on a flying bike and help E.T. return to his home planet, the mysterious and glowing “Green Planet.” Along the way, riders are treated to a mix of chase scenes, gentle storytelling, and a finale that remains uniquely weird and whimsical decades later.
The ride’s first half loosely follows the story from the 1982 film, with a dramatic forest escape from government agents. The second half—E.T.’s journey home—is entirely original, showcasing an imaginative alien world filled with bioluminescent landscapes and otherworldly creatures like Botanicus and Orbidon.
One of the most iconic features of the ride? E.T. saying your name at the end—if he remembers it, that is.
Spielberg’s Touch: From Hollywood to the Green Planet
More than just an IP-holder, Steven Spielberg personally oversaw the development of the attraction. His name is attached to the ride as its creative consultant, and his influence helped shape its tone, structure, and enduring heart.
In fact, the ride’s presence is partly protected because of Spielberg’s ongoing relationship with Universal. The Oscar-winning filmmaker has a long-standing creative contract with the parks, and it’s said he holds veto power over any major changes to his properties. That’s why E.T. Adventure has survived the removal of other classics like Jaws, Back to the Future: The Ride, and Kongfrontation.
Spielberg even made a surprise appearance at the 2025 grand opening preview of Epic Universe, reaffirming his ongoing bond with the Universal Parks. While he didn’t specifically mention E.T. Adventure during that event, his legacy looms large in the parks’ storytelling DNA.
Brief Refurbishments, Big Impact
While only scheduled to be down for five days, this short refurbishment reminds longtime fans that Universal continues to care for its legacy attractions, even in the age of modern IP powerhouses like Harry Potter and Nintendo.
The attraction is expected to reopen on Saturday, June 14, 2025, but as with all refurbishments, dates can shift. Guests planning their June visits should check the Universal Orlando app or official website for the most up-to-date information.
In the meantime, if you’re in the park before the closure, consider hopping on your bike for one more trip to the stars.
