Universal Significantly Cutting Operating Hours, Park to Close at Least 2 Days a Week

in Universal Orlando, Universal Studios

Iconic universal studios globe with a backdrop of Volcano Bay, a tropical resort.

Credit: Inside The Magic

Operational hours have been updated for the Universal Orlando Resort.

Universal Volcano Bay water theme park, Universal Studios Florida, and Islands of Adventure.
Image Credit: Edited by Inside The Magic

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With the summer season wrapping up, the Universal Orlando Resort has released hours for the rest of the year, confirming its Volcano Bay water park will only be open for five days a week. This new operational schedule begins this October as both it and the Walt Disney World Resort prepare for the colder winter months.

Volcano Bay is just one part of the Universal Orlando experience, though it’s clear the company considers it a significant part of the resort, calling it a “theme park” just like the others.

Volcano Bay joined the resort’s two theme parks, Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure, back in 2017. Over the last seven years, Volcano Bay has become a staple of the Orlando area, becoming one of the most popular water parks alongside Disney World’s Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon.

As is the case for most water parks, Volcano Bay is about to enter seasonal operation, with the water park’s full calendar being revealed for the rest of 2024.

Volcano Bay Closing Dates

An overhead shot of Volcano Bay
Credit: Universal

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Starting on October 30, Volcano Bay will be closed on at least two days every week. This will be either on a Monday/Tuesday or Wednesday/Thursday.

The park will be closed on the following dates:

  • October 30-31
  • November 4-5
  • November 13-14
  • November 18-19
  • November 26-27
  • December 4-5
  • December 9-10
  • December 18-19
  • December 23-24
  • December 31

While this may be disappointing to guests who already had a vacation booked, Volcano Bay is always at risk of closing during colder months. The water theme park faced a barrage of weather-related closures late last year and early this year.

Three girls at Universal Volcano Bay, two jump in the air while a younger one smiles at the camera
Credit: Universal

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Universal’s Volcano Bay will remain closed if temperatures fall below between 50-55 degrees, similar to how Walt Disney World operates its water parks.

Even if Volcano Bay is open, some attractions may not be open, so it’s always smart to check before your next visit.

“Embrace your inner Waturi and brave a visit to Krakatau,” advertises Universal, challenging guests to take on the terrifyingly fun 200-foot volcano. “Thrill-seekers, brace yourself for gravity-defying plunges and the fastest water slides you’ve ever seen.”

Volcano Bay is also home to several shopping and dining locations, ensuring guests can easily spend a few hours or multiple days at the stunning water theme park.

Have you ever visited Volcano Bay?

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