If you're gearing up for a Universal Orlando Resort visit in early 2025, here’s some news to keep in mind—not all rides will be in full swing.
Theme parks like Universal Orlando Resort frequently face scheduled refurbishments and occasional, unexpected ride malfunctions. Yet, it’s always a bit of a letdown when favorite attractions are off-limits, especially given the rising cost of tickets. For those planning a visit next year, it’s essential to know that several popular experiences will be temporarily out of action.
Universal has captured the theme park world’s attention lately with the upcoming debut of Universal’s Epic Universe, the park’s third major gate in Florida. Scheduled to open on May 22, 2025, Epic Universe promises a new wave of excitement with fresh lands and immersive attractions.
The new park features a unique lineup, including Dark Universe, the Isle of Berk dedicated to the How to Train Your Dragon franchise, and even an exciting Ministry of Magic addition for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Epic Universe’s offerings may make it a major contender, potentially even luring Disney loyalists to see what’s fresh on the Universal side.
Before Epic Universe opens, however, Universal Studios Florida and Universal's Islands of Adventure will undergo several ride closures. This includes the recently announced refurbishments set to wrap up by late 2024, like the indefinite shutdown of Pteranodon Flyers in the Jurassic Park location of the resort.
More Park Closures in Early 2025
From January 28 to February 1, 2025, Hogwarts Express will be paused at both ends, temporarily disrupting park-hopping for fans of the magical train ride. This iconic attraction allows guests with two-park tickets to journey through the Wizarding World.
Other temporary closures include the Jurassic Park River Adventure, which will be closed from January 6 to January 23, and Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges, which will be closed from January 24 to March 15.
These early 2025 closures follow previously scheduled 2024 closures for other attractions like Fast & Furious Supercharged and Men in Black Alien Attack at the resort. It’s an unfortunate but consistent reality in the theme park world—there's almost always something under refurbishment when you visit.
Future Horror Expansions
On a separate note, Universal’s fan-favorite Halloween Horror Nights are currently underway, transforming the park into a fright-filled experience for horror enthusiasts. And it’s about to get even spookier. Universal is bringing its haunted attractions to Las Vegas with Universal Horror Unleashed, an announcement expected to arrive on October 31.
In Florida, Epic Universe’s launch will add even more excitement, with high visitor numbers anticipated. Tickets for the new park and reservations for its exclusive in-park accommodation, the Helios Grand Hotel, were made available on October 24, 2024.
What do you think of the attraction closures coming to Universal in 2025?
