Universal Orlando Resort has long been a fan-favorite destination, offering three unique parks: Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure, and Universal Volcano Bay. But as we kick off 2025, the excitement is building for a historic addition to the lineup—Universal’s Epic Universe.
Mark your calendars. On May 22, 2025, Universal’s Epic Universe will officially welcome guests, ushering in a new age of immersive entertainment. Central Florida has always been significant for theme park lovers, but this latest venture by Universal Orlando Resort is set to redefine the landscape.
The park will feature a central hub, Celestial Park, surrounded by multiple themed lands, including How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk, Dr. Victoria Frankenstein’s Dark Universe, and the highly anticipated SUPER NINTENDO WORLD. Fans of Harry Potter will also rejoice at the inclusion of The Ministry of Magic, an expansion of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Iconic attractions like Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry, Dragon Racer’s Rally, and Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge promise unforgettable adventures.
With Epic Universe, Universal isn’t just expanding—it’s raising the stakes in the theme park wars, positioning itself as a leader in cutting-edge entertainment.
While 2025 promises big things for Universal Orlando, the new year hasn’t been without challenges. Central Florida has been hit by a rare cold front, leading to multiple closures at Universal Volcano Bay Water Theme Park. The park shut its doors on January 2 and 3, 2025, following another closure on New Year’s Eve, December 31, 2024.
Universal Orlando Resort confirmed the news via social media:
Universal Volcano Bay will be closed on Thursday, January 2 and Friday, January 3, due to inclement weather. For park updates, please call 407-817-8317 or stay tuned to Universal Orlando’s social channels.
Meteorologists at Click Orlando reported: “Besides less clouds around, the most noticeable change will be cooler temperatures dropping into the mid 60s to upper 60s after the front moves through. Overnight lows will dip into the upper 30s to upper 40s, and wind chill values will mostly be in the 40s, but some areas may feel like the mid to upper 30s.”
The forecast suggests the cold snap isn’t over yet. Another arctic blast is expected to arrive around January 6, with Click Orlando noting:
“Florida will indeed get in on the Arctic action as well. Temperatures will absolutely plummet when the first major winter system that’s expected to drag that dense but shallow layer of arctic air south. This will likely get going into early next week.”
While Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park remains open as of now, conditions could change as the frigid weather persists. Guests planning water park visits might want to reconsider until temperatures rebound.
In addition to weather-related closures, Universal Studios Florida has announced that Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, the iconic roller coaster that has thrilled guests for 15 years, will permanently close in September 2025. This beloved attraction has been a defining feature of the park’s skyline, making its retirement a heartfelt moment for fans.
What do you think about all the changes happening at Universal Orlando Resort? Are you excited for Epic Universe, or are you sad to see Rip Ride Rockit go? Let us know in the comments below!
