Universal Orlando Resort is gearing up for a massive summer season, but not every update arriving before the crowds is good news for guests. While excitement continues building around Epic Universe, Volcano Bay Nights, and several new entertainment offerings, Universal has also confirmed five attraction closures that could affect vacation plans over the next few months.
Some of the closures are short-term refurbishments. Others will last for most of the summer season, removing several popular experiences from the lineup during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
Universal Orlando’s Summer Is Packed With Activity
Universal Orlando Resort has a lot going on right now. Epic Universe recently celebrated its first anniversary, and the newest park continues pulling in huge crowds thanks to major lands like SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, and How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk.
At the same time, guests are getting ready for the return of Volcano Bay Nights. The after-hours event has become a major hit thanks to shorter wait times, a nighttime atmosphere, special entertainment, and exclusive snacks.
Universal Studios Florida is also preparing several summer experiences tied to Steven Spielberg’s upcoming movie Disclosure Day, including themed offerings in the San Francisco section of the park inspired by Jaws.
Still, alongside all that excitement, several attractions are quietly disappearing from the lineup.
River Adventure Will Be Gone All Summer
One of the biggest closures affects Islands of Adventure.
Jurassic Park River Adventure closed on January 5, 2026, and Universal does not expect the ride to reopen until November 19, 2026. That removes one of the resort’s biggest water attractions during the hottest stretch of the year.
For many guests, River Adventure is part of the classic summer experience at Universal. Losing it for nearly the entire season will likely send more crowds toward attractions like Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls and Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges.
Universal Studios Florida Loses a Fan Favorite
Universal Studios Florida is also temporarily without one of its longtime staples.
The Horror Make-Up Show closed on May 12, 2026, and is expected to remain unavailable until sometime during winter 2026.
The attraction has entertained guests for years with live comedy, horror effects demonstrations, and behind-the-scenes movie magic. It also serves as one of the park’s most reliable indoor attractions during Florida’s intense summer heat and afternoon storms.
Its temporary closure leaves a noticeable gap in the park’s entertainment lineup.
DreamWorks Land Faces Multiple Closures
DreamWorks Land is also taking a hit this summer.
Po’s Kung Fu Training Camp and Po Live! both closed beginning May 18, 2026, and are expected to remain unavailable through July 3, 2026.
The closures remove a sizable chunk of the land’s family-focused offerings right as schools let out for summer break. Po’s Kung Fu Training Camp gave younger guests an interactive play space, while Po Live! brought an entertainment experience themed around the Kung Fu Panda franchise.
Even though the closures are temporary, families visiting in June will definitely notice the missing experiences.
Epic and Islands Are Already Adjusting Operations
Even Universal’s newest park is seeing some temporary downtime.
Viking Training Camp inside How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk closed from May 4 through May 22, 2026.
The interactive play area became popular quickly after Epic Universe opened, especially among families looking for non-thrill experiences. The short closure suggests Universal is still making operational adjustments throughout the park as it moves into its second year.
Meanwhile, Me Ship, The Olive at Islands of Adventure will also close temporarily from May 26 through June 9, 2026.
While smaller in scale, the Popeye-themed play area remains an important stop for younger kids trying to cool off during Orlando’s summer weather.
Summer Plans Continue Despite the Closures
Even with several attractions unavailable, Universal Orlando Resort is still planning a busy summer season.
Universal Studios Florida will transform part of its San Francisco area into an Amity-inspired experience celebrating Jaws. Guests can expect themed food and drinks, exclusive merchandise, photo opportunities, and collectible Coca-Cola souvenir beverages at Chez Alcatraz.
Universal is also preparing Fourth of July entertainment as summer crowds continue building across the resort.
For guests planning trips over the next few months, these closures may not ruin a vacation entirely. Still, they could change how visitors approach their schedules, especially if one of these attractions sits near the top of their must-do list.
