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Universal Orlando Shuts Down 5 Attractions During Peak Summer Travel

Summer is one of the busiest times of the year at Universal Orlando Resort, with thousands of families making the trip to experience everything the destination has to offer. From blockbuster roller coasters to interactive lands and live entertainment, there's plenty to fill an entire vacation.

Still, July visitors should know that several attractions won't be operating for all or part of the month.

Leading the list is Jurassic Park River Adventure at Islands of Adventure. The iconic water attraction remains closed while Universal completes a major refurbishment. The project is expected to continue until November, meaning guests won't be able to board the familiar river boat or take the famous plunge during any July visit.

guests pass Jurassic Park gate entrance in Universal Orlando's Islands of Adventure park. Universal Islands of Adventure closures 2026.
Credit: Universal

While that's disappointing news for fans of the attraction, Jurassic Park remains one of the park's most popular areas thanks to VelociCoaster, Camp Jurassic, Raptor Encounter, and several dining options.

Another Jurassic Park attraction is also affected, although only briefly.

Pteranodon Flyers is expected to stay closed through July 2 before reopening on July 3. Designed primarily for younger guests, the ride offers a gentle flight above the land and has become a tradition for many families with small children.

Across the resort at Universal Studios Florida, DreamWorks Land also begins July with two temporary closures.

Po's Kung Fu Training Camp and Po Live! are both expected to reopen on July 4. The play area allows younger visitors to climb, explore, and cool off, while Po Live! features an interactive digital encounter with the beloved Kung Fu Panda character.

Large bucket decorated with panda faces dumps water onto people at an outdoor water park attraction, with children and adults playing below on a sunny day.
Credit: Universal Orlando Resort

Parents traveling with younger children should keep those reopening dates in mind when planning their park day.

The final closure affecting guests this month is Universal Orlando's Horror Make-Up Show.

close up of universal orlando's spinning globe
Credit: Universal

The longtime live show has entertained audiences for years by combining practical movie effects, comedy, and behind-the-scenes demonstrations. It's one of the resort's more unique experiences because it celebrates Universal's filmmaking history rather than focusing entirely on thrills.

Although the attraction remains closed during July, Universal has indicated it will return later this year after refurbishment work is complete.

The good news is these closures represent only a small fraction of everything available throughout Universal Orlando Resort.

Guests can still spend their day racing through Epic Universe, exploring The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, riding some of the country's best roller coasters, or enjoying countless attractions spread across Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure.

close up of epic universe entrance in universal orlando resort
Credit: Universal

Before traveling, it's always worth checking Universal's latest refurbishment calendar. A few minutes of planning can make a big difference, helping you adjust your itinerary before arriving at the parks and ensuring your vacation goes as smoothly as possible.

Brittni Ward

Brittni is a Disney and Universal fan; one of her favorite things at both parks is collecting popcorn buckets. While at Disney World Resort, Brittni meets the princesses and rides Kilimanjaro Safaris. At Universal, Brittni enjoys the Minions and watching Animal Actors on Location! When not at Disney World Resort or Universal Orlando, Brittni spends time with her family and pets.

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