Major Changes Ahead: Universal Orlando Closing Down Two Iconic Rides

Multiple attractions at Universal Orlando Resort are set to close down soon.

Universal Studios Florida, the resort’s flagship park, serves as a tribute to the magic of cinema, featuring a dazzling lineup of rides and shows inspired by beloved blockbuster films. From the adrenaline-pumping action of Transformers: The Ride 3D to the spine-tingling suspense of Revenge of the Mummy, guests are transported into the heart of their favorite movies, where every twist and turn brings new excitement.

Adjacent to Universal Studios, Universal’s Islands of Adventure beckons with its epic landscapes and iconic adventures. Here, thrill-seekers can brave the towering heights of The Incredible Hulk Coaster or embark on a wild journey through the jungles of Skull Island on Skull Island: Reign of Kong. Meanwhile, fans of J.K. Rowling’s Wizarding World can explore the enchanting realms of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, where they can soar above Hogwarts Castle on Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey or sip on butterbeer in the quaint village of Hogsmeade.

But the magic doesn’t stop there. Universal Orlando Resort also features the lively entertainment district of Universal CityWalk, where visitors can dine, shop, and dance the night away. From delectable cuisine at The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen to electrifying performances at Blue Man Group, there’s no shortage of excitement to be found.

To complete the ultimate vacation experience, guests can choose from a variety of on-site hotels, ranging from the luxurious Loews Portofino Bay Hotel to the family-friendly Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort. With their proximity to the parks and exclusive benefits like Early Park Admission, these accommodations ensure that every moment of the adventure is filled with convenience and delight.

If you’re planning a trip to Universal Orlando Resort in the near future, though, you need to be aware of numerous closures set to affect Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure.

E.T. Adventure

E.T. Adventure attraction stands as a timeless classic, enchanting visitors of all ages with its magical journey through the beloved universe of Steven Spielberg’s iconic film, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. This immersive experience invites guests to board bicycles and join E.T. on a heartwarming adventure to help him return to his home planet. As riders soar across the stars and through enchanting forests, they encounter iconic scenes and characters from the film, including Elliott and the friendly inhabitants of E.T.’s world.

The E.T. Adventure at Universal Orlando captivates guests with its attention to detail and nostalgic charm, offering a blend of whimsical storytelling and innovative technology. From the moment riders step foot into the attraction’s queue, they are transported into the heart of the film, surrounded by iconic props and sets that evoke the wonder and magic of E.T.’s universe.

While E.T. Adventure is one of the most iconic attractions inside of Universal Orlando Resort– perhaps the most iconic– it will be closed for a short while beginning this May.

Universal Orlando Resort has confirmed that E.T. Adventure will be closed from May 6, 2024 through May 15, 2024. While there hasn’t been an official announcement from Universal Studios Orlando on what will happen to the beloved attraction during this week, we believe that this is due to the impending opening of DreamWorks Land.

With the highly-anticipated land potentially just a few weeks away from opening, Universal has to handle E.T. Adventure’s entrance and there will likely be some work done to the outside of the attraction as we inch closer to the opening of DreamWorks Land, which will be located right beside E.T. Adventure.

Revenge of the Mummy

About a month after E.T. Adventure closes, we’ll see Revenge of the Mummy shut down for maintenance.

Inspired by the blockbuster film franchise, Revenge of the Mummy combines high-speed roller coaster thrills with immersive storytelling and special effects. From the moment riders step foot into the queue, they are transported into a world of mystery and danger, as they embark on a treacherous journey to escape the wrath of the vengeful Mummy.

As guests navigate through winding corridors and encounter ancient artifacts, they are plunged into darkness and suspense, unsure of what lurks around each corner. The Revenge of the Mummy ride at Universal Orlando delivers adrenaline-pumping excitement from start to finish, with thrilling drops, sudden twists, and unexpected encounters keeping riders on the edge of their seats.

According to Universal, the beloved coaster attraction will be shut down from June 17, 2024 through June 22, 2024. Revenge of the Mummy underwent a lengthy refurbishment back in 2022. The popular attraction closed down for several months during the same timeframe that we would see Shrek 4-D close down permanently to make way for Villain-Con Minion Blast.

The ride was closed for so long, as a matter of fact, that rumors even emerged that it could undergo a significant retheme. Some believed that the entire attraction could be changed, potentially even removing Brendan Fraser from the coaster altogether. In the end, the coaster remained the same, just with a new track and some bugs to work out.

As for this closure, the expectation is that there will be some minor maintenance done to the coaster, but nothing major. It’s only scheduled to be closed for a week– during the summer, nonetheless– so we believe Universal Studios Orlando will want to get this one reopened as quickly as possible.

One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish

One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish invites guests of all ages to embark on a whimsical aquatic adventure inspired by Dr. Seuss’ beloved children’s book. Located in Seuss Landing within Universal’s Islands of Adventure, this charming interactive ride takes visitors on a journey through the colorful world of Dr. Seuss, where they can join the characters from the book in a playful game of musical chairs. Riders board fish-shaped vehicles and soar through the air, guided by whimsical narration and catchy tunes, as they encounter obstacles and challenges along the way.

The popular kid’s attraction will be closed down for an extended period of time, from April 27, 2024, through May 24, 2024. All water attractions must undergo planned maintenance from time to time, so it’s not surprising that One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish, would have a month closure. However, the date is somewhat surprising.

Though Universal had its major water rides– Jurassic Park River Adventure, Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls, and Popeye & Pluto’s BilgeRat Barges– close for scheduled maintenance, it’s strange that this water attraction would be closing down for maintenance in the spring. You’d think it would have been a winter closure when the weather isn’t quite as hot.

In addition, this has to be noted because One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish is one of just two attractions at Islands of Adventure that doesn’t have a height requirement. This means that, during the closure, there will only be one ride at Islands of Adventure (StormForce Accelatron) and only two at Universal Studios Florida (Kang & Kodos Twirl ‘n’ Hurl and Villain-Con Minion Blast) that don’t have height requirements.

If that weren’t enough, E.T. Adventure will be closed for a week while One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish will be closed. This means young visitors who are under 36 inches will be down two attractions in what is already a minimal amount of offerings for them to enjoy.

The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle

The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle has been closed for several months, and there has been no update on when it might return. At this time, it is listed as indefinitely closed.

For those who have never experienced the attraction, The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle was a mesmerizing spectacle that enchanted visitors at Universal Orlando Resort’s The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. As night fell over the park, Hogwarts Castle transformed into a dazzling canvas for a stunning display of light and sound. This nighttime show celebrated the magic and wonder of the Harry Potter series, captivating audiences with its breathtaking visuals and stirring music. As the iconic castle was illuminated with vibrant colors and intricate projections, guests were transported into the enchanting world of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

From Gryffindor’s courageous lion to Slytherin’s cunning serpent, the castle came alive with imagery that paid homage to the beloved characters and themes of the Harry Potter universe. As the spectacle reached its crescendo, fireworks burst overhead, adding a touch of magic to the night sky.

Other major developments on the horizon for Universal Orlando

Of course, these closures aren’t the only developments happening at Universal Orlando Resort.

The biggest and most prominent project is Epic Universe, Universal’s newest theme park that will open in 2025. Epic Universe will feature lands themed to How To Train Your Dragon, Classic Monsters, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and Celestial Park, which is a unique theme created by Universal for the ambiance of the theme park. When Epic Universe opens, guests will be able to stroll Celestial Park and enter through portals to each of the worlds listed above.

The other major development happening, as we mentioned above, is DreamWorks Land. Here’s what Universal Orlando had to say about the new land.

“This summer, Universal Orlando Resort will debut DreamWorks Land – a vibrant new themed environment inspired by DreamWorks Animation’s beloved characters Shrek, Trolls and Kung Fu Panda. Located in the Universal Studios Florida theme park, the expansive area will feature tons of fun for the entire family and include a family-friendly coaster, multiple interactive play areas, live entertainment, character meet and greets and more.

As soon as guests step into the spectacular new land, the vivid world and imagination of DreamWorks Animation will surround them as they embark on exciting adventures like exploring Shrek’s Swamp just outside of his 35-foot-tall cottage, taking a ride on a dazzling Trollercoaster, interacting with Po in the Panda Village and meeting favorite characters like Gabby from Gabby’s Dollhouse. Guests will also discover unique treats, photo-op-worthy murals, interactive play areas, splash pads and entertainment offerings themed to popular DreamWorks stories and characters.”

The only other major development on the immediate horizon for Universal Orlando is none other than the replacement for Poseidon’s Fury. The popular attraction closed down last year, but a replacement has not been officially announced yet. There are multiple rumors about what could be coming to the area, but we’ll have to wait and see what truly comes to fruition.