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Universal Orlando’s Only Walkway to Epic Universe Underwater as Tropical Weather Escalates

Is There More Coming Soon?

Universal Epic Universe may be open, but the only pedestrian walkway for guests is off limits as flooding continues to impact the area.

Grand Helios at Universal Orlando Epic Universe
Credit: Universal Orlando

Universal Epic Universe Is Having Flooding Issues

What was supposed to be a quiet, scenic walk into the next great chapter of Universal Orlando Resort has turned into a complete washout—literally. After days of intense rainfall, the Terra Luna walkway, designed as the sole pedestrian route to Universal’s highly anticipated Epic Universe theme park, is now closed due to overwhelming floodwaters.

Flooded walkway at the raised traffic circle near Epic Universe. This walkway the only one available to • Terra Luna guests • Guests in lodging along Universal Blvd, such as Vista Cay and EVEN/Staybridge • The Orange County Convention Center area – @bioreconstruct on X

The path, which once symbolized convenient access to the future of theme park innovation, has been swallowed by standing water. So what happens now that the most direct route to Epic Universe is cut off—and worse, what happens if the weather doesn’t let up?

A dark, Gothic-style castle with tall spires and a central clock tower stands under a cloudy sky in Epic Universe at Universal.
Credit: Andrew Boardwine, ITM

The Walkway Everyone Was Counting On

As Universal fans eagerly await the opening of Epic Universe in 2025, infrastructure surrounding the new park is slowly coming online—including hotels, roads, and, of course, the Terra Luna walkway. The path was marketed as a major perk, offering hotel guests the freedom to explore on foot without relying on buses or cars.

But Central Florida’s relentless summer rain has thrown a wrench into those plans. The flooding along the walkway isn’t just minor puddles—it’s deep enough to warrant a complete closure for safety. The resort has not announced when it expects the path to reopen.

This incident marks a significant operational hiccup, especially considering the park hasn’t officially welcomed its first guest yet. The concern now is not just about temporary access—but whether Universal’s infrastructure is ready for Florida’s unpredictable climate.

Decorative golden and green archway with a clock and the inscription "For in dreams we enter a world that is entirely our own," set against a partly cloudy sky.
Credit: Andrew Boardwine, ITM

More Rain Could Be on the Way

As if the flooding wasn’t enough, meteorologists are keeping a close eye on a developing tropical system in the Atlantic. While it hasn’t been named yet, early models show potential for it to strengthen and bring even more heavy rain to Florida in the coming days.

If that happens, the situation could go from frustrating to critical. Additional rainfall could not only delay the reopening of the walkway but also impact ongoing construction and guest transportation around the property.

Epic Universe is already one of the most ambitious expansions in theme park history. Now, weather may be its first real test—before a single attraction opens to the public.

A decorative arched entrance with a tall, ornate clock tower welcomes visitors to Epic Universe, featuring intricate gold and teal designs against a blue sky with scattered clouds inside of Universal Orlando Epic Universe.
Credit: Andrew Boardwine, ITM

Here’s How Guests Can Still Reach Epic Universe

With the Terra Luna walkway temporarily out of service, guests still have a few options to reach the new park:

  • Universal Shuttle Buses: These are now the primary transportation method, with increased frequency to handle demand.

  • Ride-Share Services: Uber and Lyft are available with dedicated pick-up zones around the resort.

  • On-Site Parking: Visitors with vehicles can park at Epic Universe’s designated lots.

  • Hotel Assistance: Resort concierge teams are available to help arrange transport and keep guests updated.

While convenient, these options lack the immersive, on-foot experience the walkway was supposed to offer—showcasing how weather can reshape even the best-laid theme park plans.

Universal Helios Grand Hotel at the back of Epic Universe
Credit: Andrew Boardwine, ITM

Bigger Implications for Universal Epic Universe

This sudden flooding doesn’t just create short-term problems—it exposes a critical vulnerability. As climate events become more frequent and extreme, theme parks like Universal may need to rethink how they build and maintain infrastructure in flood-prone areas.

For now, all eyes remain on the skies. Will the rain finally ease up, or is this just the beginning of a long, stormy summer?

Either way, one thing is clear: the journey to Epic Universe just got a little less magical—and a whole lot wetter.

Emmanuel Detres

Since first stepping inside the Magic Kingdom at nine years old, I knew I was destined to be a theme Park enthusiast. Although I consider myself a theme Park junkie, I still have much to learn and discover about Disney. Universal Orlando Resort has my heart; being an Annual Passholder means visiting my favorite places on Earth when possible! When I’m not writing about Disney, Universal, or entertainment news, you’ll find me cruising on my motorcycle, hiking throughout my local metro parks, or spending quality time with my girlfriend, family, or friends.

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