Unfortunate Update: Universal Announces Extended Closure for Theme Park: All Tickets Now Invalid

As another wave of chilly temperatures sweeps through Central Florida, Universal Orlando Resort has officially extended its temporary closure of Volcano Bay for two additional days.

Cold Weather Forces Universal to Close Volcano Bay

The resort announced via its social media channels that the tropical-themed water park will remain closed on Thursday, February 20, and Friday, February 21, 2025, citing inclement weather conditions as the reason for the extension.

Weather Update Universal Volcano Bay will be closed on Thursday, February 20 and Friday, February 21, due to inclement weather. For park updates, please call 407-817-8317 or stay tuned to our social channels. – @UniversalORL on X

🌧️❄️ Weather Update ❄️🌧️
Universal Volcano Bay will be closed on Thursday, February 20 and Friday, February 21, due to inclement weather. For park updates, please call 407-817-8317 or stay tuned to our social channels.

— Universal Orlando Resort (@UniversalORL) February 19, 2025

This marks the first weather-related closure of the water park in February 2025. However, Universal previously closed Volcano Bay for multiple days in January due to similar weather concerns.

According to Weather.com, Orlando is expected to experience a high of 64°F and a low of 40°F on Thursday, followed by a high of 62°F and a low of 47°F on Friday. Historically, Universal closes Volcano Bay whenever temperatures are forecasted to dip into the mid-60s, as cooler weather significantly impacts the guest experience at the water park.

While Universal has not yet made an announcement regarding operations for the weekend, current forecasts suggest that temperatures may rise on Saturday and Sunday, possibly allowing for a reopening.

What Happens to Pre-Purchased Tickets?

With Volcano Bay closed on February 20 and 21, all date-specific tickets for these two days are now invalid. However, Universal has reassured guests that they will have the opportunity to reschedule their visit for a later date in 2025.

If you had purchased a ticket specifically for one of the affected dates, you have a few options:

• Exchange your ticket for another day: Guests with date-specific tickets should contact Universal Orlando Guest Services or visit the ticket counter at the resort to select a new date.
• Use an annual or multi-day ticket: If you have a multi-day pass that includes access to Volcano Bay, those tickets will remain valid for future visits within the allowed timeframe.
• Check refund eligibility: If your travel plans don’t allow for a rescheduled visit, it’s best to contact Universal’s support team to inquire about refund options.

For additional assistance, guests can call 407-817-8317 or follow Universal Orlando’s official social media channels for live updates.

How This Affects Your Universal Orlando Vacation

For those visiting Universal Orlando Resort this week, the closure of Volcano Bay might require some quick adjustments to your itinerary. Fortunately, there are still plenty of attractions, entertainment, and experiences to enjoy across Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure.

If your plans originally included a day at Volcano Bay, consider checking out these alternative experiences:

• Ride Thrill Coasters at Islands of Adventure – Head over to Islands of Adventure for high-speed thrills on rides like VelociCoaster, The Incredible Hulk Coaster, and Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure.
• Enjoy Indoor Attractions – With cooler temperatures, this might be the perfect opportunity to explore some of Universal’s best indoor attractions, including Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man, and Transformers: The Ride 3D.
• Visit CityWalk for Dining and Entertainment – Universal CityWalk offers a variety of entertainment, shopping, and dining options, including Toothsome Chocolate Emporium, Voodoo Doughnut, and mini-golf experiences.

Will Volcano Bay Reopen This Weekend?

Universal has not yet made an official statement regarding potential weekend operations for Volcano Bay. However, current forecasts suggest a slight warming trend, which could lead to a reopening by Saturday, February 22. To stay informed about Volcano Bay’s reopening schedule, guests should monitor Universal’s official website and social media pages.

While weather-related closures are always an inconvenience, Universal Orlando remains committed to ensuring guests have the best possible experience when visiting Volcano Bay. If you had plans to visit the park on February 20 or 21, be sure to reschedule your tickets as soon as possible to secure your preferred new date. For more updates on Universal Orlando Resort, theme park closures, and travel tips, stay tuned to our coverage!