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4 clusters · 6 sources · 9 days · First seen · Last updated

Universal Orlando Resort attraction closures and changes

Overview

Universal Orlando Resort has announced several operational changes and attraction closures across its various parks, including Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, Epic Universe, and Volcano Bay.

In mid-October 2026, the resort announced the permanent closure of the ‘Animal Actors on Location!’ show, effective November 3, 2026. While the official operating calendar lists November 3 as the closure date, reports indicate that November 2, 2026, may serve as the final performance date. The attraction, which previously operated as ‘Animal Planet Live’, has been part of the park since June 7, 1990. Universal has stated the space will eventually host a new experience, though details regarding the replacement or a construction timetable have not been disclosed. During this period, the company also faced scrutiny regarding its policies for plus-size visitors, specifically concerning whether complimentary Express passes are still provided to guests unable to board rides due to restrictive seating.

By late October, the resort detailed further closures for maintenance and refurbishment. This includes the Hogwarts Express, scheduled to close on November 4, 2026, which will require guests to walk between parks to access Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade. Additionally, the ‘Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey’ attraction at Islands of Adventure is slated for temporary downtime from February 8 through February 19, 2027. Other water rides and entertainment offerings are also expected to face temporary or permanent closures as the resort continues its expansion.

Entities

Universal Studios Florida · Universal Orlando Resort · Islands of Adventure · Epic Universe · Volcano Bay

Timeline

  1. [CULTURE] 3 sources
    Universal Orlando announces several attraction closures for November 2026

    Universal Orlando Resort has announced several attraction closures for November 2026, including a temporary shutdown of the Hogwarts Express and the permanent closure of a long-running show.

  2. [CULTURE] 4 sources
    Universal Orlando to permanently close Animal Actors On Location

    Universal Orlando Resort will permanently close the Animal Actors On Location! attraction at Universal Studios Florida on November 3, 2026, to make way for a new experience.

  3. [BUSINESS] 3 sources
    Universal Orlando Resort announces multiple attraction closures

    Universal Orlando Resort has announced several upcoming attraction closures for maintenance, including the Hogwarts Express in late 2026 and Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey in early 2027.

  4. [BUSINESS] 3 sources
    Universal Orlando Resort announces attraction closure and policy changes

    Universal Orlando Resort announces the 2026 closure of ‘Animal Actors on Location!’, faces scrutiny over ride courtesy policies for plus-size guests, and offers major discounts to select passholders.

Sources

blog.discoveruniversal.com · disneydining.com · disneyfanatic.com · insidethemagic.net · mommypoppins.com · themeparkinsider.com

This summary has been updated 1 time: see revision history