Universal Orlando Resort has plenty happening this October, but guests should also prepare for several major experiences to remain unavailable.
Three closures are already affecting Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure, while an even bigger shutdown is coming later this month. Beginning October 26, Universal’s Volcano Bay will close completely and remain unavailable through the end of 2026.
For anyone planning an October vacation, these four closures could require some adjustments.
Jurassic Park River Adventure Remains Closed
Over at Universal Islands of Adventure, Jurassic Park River Adventure remains unavailable following its January closure for an extensive refurbishment.
That means October visitors won't be able to experience the classic water ride or its massive final drop. However, the extended project is finally getting closer to completion.
Jurassic Park River Adventure is scheduled to return in November, so guests visiting in October will just miss its reopening.
The closure leaves Jurassic World VelociCoaster as the biggest operating Jurassic attraction during this period.
Two Universal Studios Florida Experiences Are Unavailable
Universal Studios Florida has two additional closures affecting October trips.
Finnegan’s Bar & Grill has been closed since January and remains unavailable. Universal expects the Irish-inspired restaurant to return sometime this winter, although a specific reopening date hasn't been announced.
Universal’s Horror Make-Up Show is also closed.
The longtime show shut down in May and is expected to return this winter. The attraction traditionally gives guests a humorous look at movie makeup and special effects through demonstrations, props, movie clips, and audience interaction.
Its absence is especially noticeable during October, when Halloween Horror Nights brings horror fans to Universal Studios Florida throughout the month.
Volcano Bay Closing October 26
The largest shutdown arrives later this month.
Universal’s Volcano Bay will close completely beginning October 26 and remain closed through the end of 2026. Universal currently plans to reopen the water park on or before April 1, 2027.
Unlike the other closures, this takes an entire park out of Universal Orlando’s lineup.
Guests visiting before October 26 can still include Volcano Bay in their plans. Those arriving afterward will instead have Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure, and Epic Universe available as Universal Orlando’s three operating theme parks.
While attraction refurbishments are nothing unusual, October's list is significant. With three individual experiences already unavailable and Volcano Bay preparing for a months-long shutdown, checking operating calendars before arriving could prevent an unpleasant surprise.
